The Parish Council has published the August Newsletter which will be displayed on Noticeboards throughout the Parish and submitted via WhatsApp, Facebook and here on the Giddings website.
If you are aware of anyone in the parish who cannot access the noticeboards or the community social media platforms, please contact the Parish Council so a printed copy can be made available for them. If you would prefer to receive a copy of the monthly newsletter via email, please contact the Parish Council.
Present: Councillors Hodson, Bolton, Maciag, Moody, and the Clerk.
Joined by a representative from Gigaclear
132.23 Cllr Hodson, as Chairman, welcomed those present to the meeting.
133.23 Apologies were received from:
Cllr Hargrave – family commitment
Cllr D’Altilia – work commitment
County Councillor Gardener – ill health
District Councillor Alban – at another meeting
Cllr Sanders – work commitment
134.23 There were no declarations of Disclosable Interests relating to items on the Agenda
135.23 No member of press attended the meeting. See 139.23 e) regarding Gigaclear
136.23 Minutes of the meeting held on 21st November 2023 were confirmed as a correct record by Cllr Moody and Maciag.
137.23 Reports from Councillors and Clerk:
County Councillor Gardener sent the following regarding County Council issues:
The Mayor is consulting on his proposed bus improvements, please go on the Combined Authority website and give your views. One proposal is to make the Ting service a more rural service, rather than it providing a service for residents within St Neots, who already have a bus service. Thus freeing up the service for rural residents.
The proposed closure of Kimbolton Fire Station will be discussed at tomorrow’s Fire authority meeting before consultation begins.
LHI Bids need to be in by the 12 January 2024
District Councillor Alban sent the following report on District Council matters:
District Council’s Early Bird Discount for the Green Bin Scheme, is now live. I am still against thi, but feel I should mention that, by signing now, residents can save themselves £7.50 a year for the first 3 years.
The District Council’s Development Management Committee have just refused planning permission for a large solar farm in Haddon; only time will tell if this will go to appeal.
There were no reports from Councillors
Clerk had sent a note of thanks to resident MA, who displayed the poppies for Remembrance Sunday
138.23 FINANCIAL MATTERS:
a) to note Barclays Bank statements for Parish Council account.
Parish Council (everyday) Account – balance as at 4/12/2023 £7012.26 (includes £500 bequest)
Parish Council Deposit Account – balance as at 4/12/2023 £26,189.05 (1.85% interest applicable)
Defibrillator account – balance as at 4/12/2023 – £247.91
b) PAYMENTS – the following online payments were approved by Cllrs Bolton and Maciag:
Who
What for
TOTAL
Invoice includes this VAT amount
Authorised
Authorised
J R Trolove
Wages for October (44 hours)
Xxx
NIL
Transfer to Village Hall for Neighbourhood Plan Group
Hire of Hall
25.89
NIL
Allgood Agricultural Contractors
Cutting around Townsend Pond
84.00
14.00
Cambs Acre
Subscription renewal
60.00
NIL
to approve Clerk’s working hours for November – total of 30, approved by Cllrs Maciag and Bolton.
139.23 PLANNING applications and other planning matters:
Conversion of farm outbuildings to form two residential dwellings, demolition of cattle shed and erection of one residential dwelling and erection of double garage to serve No.41 Main Street – Comments by 1st December 2023 – further emails sent with No Objections on provision that no significant changes to exterior appearance or access onto Main Street. There has been no further correspondence from Hunts DC and, when Clerk checked the Planning website, this application was approved on 15th December.
School playground area –Clerk has registered an Asset of Community Value on 6th October (8 weeks before decision received) – they enquired about buildings on part of site, later about access to the site. Clerk has emailed a request for an update (response arrived on 20/12/23, the application was unsuccessful).
School House and site – discussion of collaboration with Milton Estates and future uses for the site. This agenda item has been deferred until February when, it is hoped, that all Councillors will be available to consider potential options will be discussed and considered – Cllr Maciag and Clerk will compile preparatory documents. Clerk will contact Jonathan Lewis of CambsCC for an update on the current situation.
Anaerobic Digester –
CambsCC Highways Dept response to Application. Cllrs remarked that Highways Dept response was the best that can be hoped for, given the “over the boundary” location of the site.
Email of thanks from resident re. Parish Council’s response.
Cllr Shacklock or North Northants Council advised there has been no further action/activity regarding this proposal
Gigaclear – a representative gave a presentation of the works proposed. Further details will be known in Spring 2024.
Letter from Galliford Try/Cornerstone – proposed telecommunications base station – Cllrs requested that a letter be sent, advising that this Parish Council has no objection to the proposed site at Longbrook Farm, Thurning, PE8 5RG
Neighbourhood Plan – Cllr Maciag advised that the recent sessions at Great Gidding, Winwick and Hamerton had been well attended, with engagement and feedback from residents.
Cllr Hodson expressed thanks to the members of the Neighbourhood Plan for their time and input on this project.
Clerk reminded the group that invoices should be sent through for expenses ASAP
140.23 Roads, footpaths and bridleways
a) Local Highways Improvement Bid CLOSES 5PM on 12 JANUARY 2024 – 2024-25 Suggested scheme for Hemington Lodge Road from junction with B660/Main Street to County boundary or 20MPH application
b) location of speed camera – 2 x emails from residents asking for the camera to move the other location at the Glatton end of the village. Cllr Hodson proposedthat, as the camera at Village Hall/Church Farm is proving successful at slowing traffic in the centre of the village, a second camera should be considered for the other post at the Glattonend of the village.This proposal was seconded by Cllr Moody, and the Clerk will enquire about price and availability.
141.23 Parish Council owned property – contractor consulted for Parish Pond, Parish Pound and Recreation Ground. Quote awaited.
142.23 Recreation Field: Contractor asked to consider work required and quote accordingly
Community Grant application acknowledged and decision awaited. Clerk confirmed that the application complied with the Fields in Trust criteria. This matter will be discussed at the Village Hall and Recreation Ground Meeting (043.23)
143.23 Correspondence received since 21st November 2023:
a) NALC newsletters –NALC events list, Legal update, Consultation to update the Model Financial Regulations, Legal Update (including fire safety for non-domestic buildings)
b) Cambridgeshire County Council –
29/11 Cambridgeshire Matters monthly newsletter INCLUDING item on surviving winter, highways fault reporting, Swaffham Prior renewable heat initiative, free spaces on Holiday Activity programme,
Traffic Management Centre – reports for incidents in November
Update on regional and coastal flooding group
Older Adults post hospital discharge Grants – application form and information
24/11 Street lighting – starting January 2024 – more efficient LED lighting
TEAMS meeting – 11th January at 6.15PM to discuss annual budget (see email 13/12)
Highways stakeholder survey – closing date 28th February 2024
Street lighting stakeholder survey – closing date 28th February 2024
c) Huntingdonshire District Council –
21/11 – slides and information from Planning and Development Management training session
Staying healthier and stronger for longer
Sustainability of settlements – our response to survey acknowledged
Press release – CCTV in Huntingdon
Press release – plans for the Priory Centre in St Neots
Press release – announcement of Council Tax Support Scheme
A Christmas card from Chief Executive, Michelle Sacks
27/11 – Invitation to apply for CIL funding, also details from Tim Alban
23/11 – Precept – Council Tax Support figures
Winter wise toolkit
14/12 – Police and Crime Commissioner Election on 2 May 2024 – Village Hall booking
27/11 – Garden Waste Subscription service – early bird discount also invite to Waste Minimisation meeting (on 6th December), and 11/12 further information about the charges etc
11/12 – review of Huntingdonshire Local Lists by Development Services – see print out at meeting, compile responses to the survey – deadline 14th January
Invite to carol service at St Marys Huntingdon on Monday 18th December
d) CAPALC – several emails about the various training courses available/AGM online on 14th December, December bulletin forwarded to Councillors prior to meeting,
e) Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority –
News from the Courts emails, Ram raid campaign launch, launch of ATM watch campaign, launch of podcast series, monthly newsletter from Police & Crime Commissioner, frosty morning advice, crackdown on drink and drug driving, warning about courier scams, request for views on cybercrime, how to save Police time, another newsletter, the 12 frauds of Christmas, survey from Police and Crime Commissioner, a Chrismas card from ECOPS
Cambridgeshire ACRE – learn more about embarking on a social venture
h) Parish Online Newsletter
j) Keep Britain Tidy – January 2024 is Buy Nothing New Month – “buy nothing new, protect your planet”
k) Alcoholics Anonymous poster – request to display
144.23 Items for next meeting:
Allotments – any changes needed to rents or terms of tenancy agreement
Suggestions of a speaker for the Annual General Meeting in May
145.23 The next meeting will take place on
Tuesday 16th January 2024 at Great Gidding Village Hall
Meeting closed at 20.47
This meeting was followed by a Village Hall & Recreation Field meeting.
Extraordinary Meeting of Great & Little Gidding Parish Council regarding the possible closure of Great Gidding C of E (Voluntary Controlled) Primary School
At Cambridgeshire County Council’s Children and Young People’s Committee Meeting held on 17th January 2023 a decision was made to commence a 30-day consultation on the proposed closure of the Primary School in Great Gidding.
Meeting to include Education Department representatives
As part of this consultation process, the Local Authority have committed to consult with the Parish Council and we as members of the Parish Council wish to ensure we are representing the views of our community. To facilitate this process and provide opportunity for members of the community to engage, Great & Little Gidding Parish Council will be hosting a meeting on Thursday 9thFebruary in Great Gidding Village Hall at 7.45pm. In attendance will be representatives from Cambridgeshire County Council’s Education Department as well as members of Great and Little Gidding Parish Council. In addition, our local MP, County and District Councillors have been invited to attend, as have representatives of each of the Parish Councils/Parish Meetings in the school’s catchment area.
We are keen to ensure that all interested parties have the opportunity to present their viewpoint.
Date of the meeting: Thursday 9th February 2023
Time: To commence at 7.45pm
Venue: Great Gidding Village Hall
(PLEASE DO NOT ARRIVE EARLIER than 7.30PM as there is a prior booking in the Village Hall).
Questions, comments and observations
Questions, comments and observations should be submitted to the Parish Clerk by 5.00pm on Friday 3rd February, these will be given priority at the meeting (we cannot guarantee that any questions/comments/observations received after that deadline will be heard at the meeting)
AGENDA:
A presentation from representatives of the Education Department of Cambridgeshire County Council
Questions from Great & Little Gidding Parish Council to the Education Department representatives
Questions, comments and observations submitted by members of the community. (Any questions remaining at the end of the meeting will be forwarded to the Local Authority)
Reminder of timeline
9.00pm. Close of meeting.
Chairman: Paul Hodson
Clerk: Julie Trolove, Great and Little Gidding Parish Council, The Village Hall, Main Street, Great Gidding, Huntingdon, Cambs PE28 5NU
Minutes of the meeting held at Great Gidding Village Hall on Tuesday 17th May 2022
Present: Cllrs Hodson, Pudney, Bolton,D’Altilia and Maciag, and the Clerk.
2 members of the public were present
Annual Parish Council Meeting
Parish Council Chairman – Councillors Bolton and Pudney proposed Cllr Hodson as Chairman, who accepted the office
Parish Council Vice Chairman – Councillors Bolton and Hodson proposed Cllr Pudney as Vice Chairman, who accepted the office
Acceptance of Office forms – were completed. In addition Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest forms and Election Expenses forms were completed
018.22 Cllr Hodson, as Chairman, welcomed those present to the meeting.
019.22 Apologies were received from County Councillor Gardener and District Councillor Alban, who were both attending other meetings.
020.22 There were no declarations of Disclosable Interests for items on the Agenda
021.22 There was no participation from members of the public.
022.22 Minutes of the meeting held on 19th April 2022 were confirmed as a correct record by Cllrs Pudney and Hodson
023.22 Matters arising from those Minutes that will not be discussed as an agenda item:
Cllr Hodson wished to thank Nick Hill for his help and support with the Speed Activation Sign. A solar battery has been installed on the post outside Church Farm and the sign located at that position.
Clerk advised that, following the Annual Parish Meeting, the resident who highlighted the danger of leaving the Village Hall car park had forwarded examples of proposed signage and a copy of his request to Highways Department. A response from Highways Department is awaited.
024.22 To receive reports from Councillors and Clerk:
There were no reports from Councillors.
025.22 An application for Co-option to the Parish Council has been received from Ms Karen Moody. Cllr Hodson proposed acceptance of the application and this was seconded by Cllr Bolton.
026.22 FINANCIAL MATTERS:
a) Barclays Bank statements was shared
b) PAYMENTS – the following online payments were approved:
Who
What for
TOTAL
VAT
Authorised
Authorised
Elan City Paid outside of meeting
Purchase of additional solar panel for MVAS
469.12
~
JRT
BHIB
Insurance renewal
566.80
~
JRT
Village Hall (&Recreation Ground Committee
Hire of Parish Office and Village Hall
550.00
~
JRT
J R Trolove
Wages for March (29 hours)
Xxx
~
JRT
Bradgate Ground Maintenance
Grass cutting of Rec Field (623)
199.32
33.22
JRT
Jan Maciag *** (UK Timber Ltd)
Refund of payment in respect of oak for Rec Ground bench
188.28
31.38
JRT
Jubilee events S Jarvis *** A Underwood ***
Posters for Village Hall display Funding for BBQ and drinks
45.72 Up to £300
~ TBA
*** BACS details required to enable payments to be made
( discussion followed regarding the Jubilee events – up to £300 for food and drink for the BBQ and Boules event, no charge to those attending but any donations (and any remaining funds) received will be forwarded to the Great Gidding Charity).
Clerk’s working hours for April, a total of 36, were approved by Cllrs Bolton and Hodson
The Annual Governance Statement and Certificate for Audit were reviewed and completed. A Certificate of Exemption will be requested from the External Auditor
CANALBS will carry out annual internal audit (arranged for Tuesday 7th June)
The Parish precept payment has been received into the bank account
027.22 Planning Applications and Planning matters – there are currently no applications
In response to the Planning Application for a MUGA, Tim Alban has advised :
I have just received the following from the Senior Planning Officer covering the north of the district, which looks like good news.
“I’ve liaised with Debra on this. The application is on target be issued by 27th May and can confirm that it will not have to go to DMC for determination.”
Cllr Maciag advised that (as an architect) he has several planning applications that are outstanding for long periods of time with the District Council.
028.22 Huntingdonshire District Council’s revised Code of Conduct – this had been shared prior to the meeting and was unanimously approved by Parish Councillors.
029.22 Asset Register – this had been shared prior to the meeting and was agreed as a correct record by Parish Councillors.
030.22 to discuss whether the Parish Council should engage with social media and, if so, with which providers, and types of information that could and would be shared:
Cllr Hodson explained that the village website was available to other organisations and individuals to post items, including businesses and local activities – the hosting fee is paid by the Parish Council. The “village” Facebook page was set up and by a resident, as is the WhatsApp group. Gidding News is published and circulated to all residents 3 or 4 times each year.
Cllr Pudney has offered to post Parish Council/items affecting residents that are deemed urgent or needing to be shared (ie road closure).
Cllr D’Altilia proposed a text message system, sent out to those that sign up to the service, that contains information only – he will research further and establish GDPR requirements.
031.22 Training opportunities for Councillors and Clerk:
Councillor Training (online via ZOOM)
Saturday 21st May
Wednesday 8/15/22nd June – 3 sessions
Saturday 23rd June –
032.22 Recreation Ground:
a) Trespass by motorbike users – there have been no further reports of noise or nuisance and it was agreed that the best course of action was to report future incidents to the Police.
b) Cllrs will arrange a date to refurbish the slatted seat.
033.22 Correspondence received since 16th April 2022 (other than that discussed in agenda items above).
f) Hunts DC email dated 29/4 – press release regarding £150 refund on Council Tax
g) Economic Development Huntingdonshire DC invest@huntingdonshire.gov.uk – weekly Business News – email dated 5/5, 12/5, 28/4, 21/4
h) The Combined Authority Local Transport and Connectivity Plan team – email dated 12/5 – consultation on a development plan for better transport
i) Zurich Insurance – organising a safe event (in relation to the Jubilee Celebrations)
j) email dated 10/5 – confirmation of auto enrolment with the Pensions Regulator for G&LG PC
k) North Northamptonshire – email dated 9/5 regarding Strategic Planning Scope – online – Clerk regularly checks planning applications due to being on the County Boundary and the increased activity of businesses along Hemington Lodge Road
l) Cambs and Pboro Fostering Service, email dated 6/5– raising awareness of service during Fostering Fortnight, start date 9/5
m) email with attached posters promoting Shakespeare at The George (in Huntingdon)
n) invitation dated 29/4 to join Henry Morris Centenery Conference – education through village colleges and community support and engagement – Thursday 30th June at Bottisham Village College
o) Grantway – email advising of new grant application portal
p) email from Edward Groome regarding Jubilee events – including message from HM The Queen regarding tree planting
If you wish to see items of correspondence or obtain the links to online surveys, please contact the Parish Clerk.
034.22 Items for next meeting:
Co-option of Parish Councillor
Review of Standing Orders
Review of Financial Regulations
Review of Budgets
035.22 The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 21st June 2022
starting at 1930 hours in the Village Hall, Great Gidding.
Minutes of the meeting held at Great Gidding Village Hall on Tuesday 19th April 2022
Present: Cllrs Hodson, Pudney and Maciag, County Councillor Gardener, and the Clerk.
2 members of the public were present
001.22 Cllr Hodson, as Chairman, welcomed those present to the meeting
002.22 Apologies for absence were received:
Cllr Bolton – holiday
District Councillor Alban – ill health
003.22 There were no Member’s declarations of Disclosable Interests.
004.22 No members of the Press were present. Members of the Public were in attendance to observe the meeting.
005.22 Minutes of the meeting held on 15th March 2022 were confirmed as a true and correct record by Councillors Pudney and Maciag
005.22 There were no matters arising from those Minutes.
006.22 To receive reports from Councillors and Clerk:
County Councillor Gardener
The County Council are considering implementing 20MPH zones throughout the county – details regarding funding and how to apply are not yet available.
A reduced £1 rate has been introduced for under 19s using the TING bus.
A Ukraine Response Group has been formed by the County Council, which includes welcome, welfare and education support for refugees. 25 households in the Hunts DC area have offered accommodation to refugees.
Cllr Gardener left this meeting to attend another.
Clerk – update on plans for Jubilee Weekend events in the Parish, which will include a boules tournament with “bring along” picnic in the Community Orchard, in addition there will be a display in the Village Hall of events/groups/clubs over the last 70 years – details will be distributed during May to parishioners.
Clerk – update on Milking Slade Lane, LHI signage etc. Highways Dept have responded to residents concerns and will take action to alleviate the issues.
Cllr Pudney – asked if the Parish Council had been made aware of the intended closure of Main Street by Anglian Water, as this had caused concerns on local social media. Clerk advised that the Parish Council have not received correspondence from any organisation regarding road closure in the Parish but, several weeks ago, she had reported the sinking of the road surface between Church Farm and the Village Hall to CambsCC Highways Dept and Anglian Water, and assumes this closure was to enable this to be repaired.
Cllr Pudney requested that use of social media be added to the agenda of the next meeting.
Cllr Pudney advised that a 40MPH sign has been damaged along Winwick Road, Clerk has already reported this (and the sign indicating a right turn into Hemington Lodge Road) to CambsCC Highways Department who, in turn, have responded that this will be addressed within the next 12 weeks.
007.22 An Application has been received from Fabio D’Altilia to join as a Parish Councillor
Cllr Hodson proposed acceptance of the application and seconded by Cllrs Pudney and Maciag
008.22 FINANCIAL MATTERS:
a) Barclays Bank statements for Parish Council account was shared prior to the meeting.
b) The following payments were approved:
Who
What for
TOTAL
VAT
Authorised
Authorised
SLCC
Annual subscription
36.00
~
JRT
Canalbs (paid outside of meeting)
Internal audit 2020/21
136.50
~
JRT
PH
Cambridgeshire County Council
MVAS sign ( incl. £628.92 from CIL tax) LHI contribution for B660 scheme
2247.92 1000.00 TOTAL £3247.92
~
JRT
Huntingdonshire District Council
Annual Rates for Rec. Field
11.26
~
Direct debit
McAfee NOT PAID – free package from AVG subscribed to
Renewal of anti virus for 1 year
44.99
~
NOT PAID
Microsoft 365 – payment made by J R Trolove
Renewal of device package
59.99
~
JRT
J R Trolove
Wages for February (29 hours)
Xxx
~
JRT
Bradgate Ground Maintenance
Grass cutting of Rec Field (573)
83.05
16.61
JRT
VH
Tally Ho Cleaning
Village Hall cleaning
32.50
~
JRT
d) Clerk’s hours worked between 1st and 31st March (29 hours) – approved by Cllr Pudney
e) Proposal to purchase an additional solar unit for the second MVAS post was made by Cllr Hodson, a price of £469.12 was quoted by ELAN City quote, this was seconded by Cllr Pudney
f) Proposal to accept pay increase for Clerk’s hours in line with NALC guidelines (an increase of 21p per hour) was made by Cllr Hodson and seconded by Cllr Pudney.
009.22 Planning Applications and Planning matters:
A) Great Gidding C of E School – retention of existing canopy and covered play area until 31 August 2027 (Ref: CCC/22/024/VCR3)
b) Great Gidding C of E School – retention of the 1 x 8 bay and 1 x 2 bay mobile classrooms until 31 August 2027 (Ref: CCC/22/026/VCR3)
No observations, either for or against, were made on both applications.
010.22 Huntingdonshire District Council’s revised Code of Conduct
Proposal to adopt this Code of Conduct – Clerk will send out the Huntingdonshire District Council Code and the Parish Council’s current Code of Conduct to enable a decision to be made at the next meeting.
Completion of revised Disclosable Pecuniary Interests form by Parish Councillors – these will be brought back at the next meeting.
011.22 Asset Register – to view the current register – this matter held over until the May meeting.
012.22 Request (verbal) from St Michaels Parochial Church Council to support them with funding works to trees within then Churchyard. Discussion followed and the request to fund works to trees within the Churchyard was declined. Clerk will advise the PCC.
013.22 Training opportunities for Councillors and Clerk:
Saturday 21st May – 9.00 to 15.30 – Councillor Training (online via ZOOM)
014.22 Recreation Ground:
a) Trespass by motorbike users – a parishioner had reported that small motorbikes had been seen on the Recreation Ground, on one occasion resulting in a family leaving the area. PH suggested a kissing gate at the Winwick Road entrance but this would also make it difficult to gain access with a pram/pushchair/bike etc., ground barriers would also cause access issues. It was felt that signs would not be effective. Advice will be sought from the Police.
b) Cllr Hodson proposed that Wicksteed Leisure be instructed to carry out annual inspection of play equipment – Cllr Pudney seconded.
c) Planning application for MUGA – it has been indicated by Hunts DC planning Department that this will be discussed at their May meeting.
d) Cllr Maciag has the oak for renovation of the bench, a working party to be organised in the near future.
015.22 Correspondence received since 15th March 2022 (other than that discussed in agenda items above).
a) Updated version of Operation London Bridge from SLCC – Clerk gave an outline and from the discussion Cllr Pudney suggested a flagpole be sited at the Village Hall – this will be added to the next agenda of the Village Hall & Recreation Ground committee.
Support for Ukrainian refugees – The role of village halls Newsletter including use of Bouncy Castles and insurance risk Email dated 24/3 – Charity purposes and rules Email dated 25/3 – Food, farming and Countryside commission online event Email dated 29/3 – funding a project Email dated 8/4 – managing finances for Trustees
d) CAPALC email dated – available training sessions, 1/4 monthly bulletin and more
email dated 21/3 with Cambridgeshire Matters newsletter
email dated 7/4 – transport strategy plan – Parish Council comment – Await further information.
Email dated 14/4 – Local Highways 2022 Micro Asphalt / Gripfibre Carriageway Surface Treatment Program – no planned work in Great & Little Gidding
f) Hunts DC email dated 26/3/2022 – Press release regarding St Neots Riverside Park
Email dated 18/3 – Funding approved for Hinchingbrooke Hospital improvements
Email dated 18/3 – Huntingdonshire District Council following a successful bid to the Together for Our Planet funding programme
Email dated 18/3 – Hunts DC press release on the approval of new CIL funding bids
Email dated 22/3 – distribution of Business Support grant
Email dated 23/3 – Think Communities newsletter
Email dated 25/3 – Changing Places Fund Announcement
Email dated 28/3 – Development Plan to 2036 with link
Email dated 29/3 – link to Landscape and Townscape Supplementary Planning Document
Email dated 6/4 – Election Nominations Closed – Great & Little Gidding has been notified that it is an uncontested Election for this Parish.
g) Economic Development Huntingdonshire DC invest@huntingdonshire.gov.uk – weekly Business News – 17/3, 24/3, 31/3, 7/4, 14/4
h) Chesterton Parish Meeting chairman – email dated 20/3 regarding warehousing development on A1/A605 junction in Chesterton/Alwalton parish
g) County Councillor Simon Bywater – email dated 21/3 re bridge over footpath in Steeple Gidding Parish – await further updates as it is not in our Parish
i) Grantway email dated 22/3 regarding grant search portal
j) Parish and Town Council survey completed by Clerk – dated 22/3 regarding playing pitch strategy
k) FWAG email dated 23/3 – funding for wildlife ponds – Clerk advised FWAG that our ponds had been assessed, newts present, funding not available for our ponds
l) SLCC email dated 23/3 – early day motion re Standards in Public Life
m) PKF Littlejohn – email dated 24/3 – external auditor requirements and paperwork
n) District Councillor Marge Beuttell – email dated 28/3 – minutes of the Combined Parishes meeting
o) North Northamptonshire planning policy with link dated 28/3
If you wish to see items of correspondence, please contact the Parish Clerk.
016.22 Items for next meeting:
Annual Parish Council Meeting – appointment of Chairman, Vice Chairman and completion of Acceptance of Office forms and Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest forms. Also Election Expenses forms
Adoption of the Huntingdon District Council Code of Conduct
Review of Parish Council Asset Register
Review of the Parish Council budget to 31 March 2022
Completion of the Annual Governance Statement and Certificate for Audit
Approval of proposed Internal Auditor
Parish Council use of social media
Flag pole at the Village Hall (this will be discussed at the Village Hall & Recreation Ground Meeting).
017.22 The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 17th May 2022
starting at 1930 hours in the Village Hall, Great Gidding.
Smaller authority name: Great & Little Gidding Parish Council
NOTICE OF PUBLIC RIGHTS AND PUBLICATION OF ANNUAL GOVERNANCE & ACCOUNTABILITY RETURN (EXEMPT AUTHORITY)
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2022
Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 Sections 25, 26 and 27
The Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015 (SI 2015/234)
NOTICE
NOTES
1. Date of announcement – 8th June 2022
2. Each year the smaller authority prepares an Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR). The AGAR has been published with this notice. It will not be reviewed by the appointed auditor, since the smaller authority has certified itself as exempt from the appointed auditor’s review.Any person interested has the right to inspect and make copies of the AGAR, the accounting records for the financial year to which it relates and all books, deeds, contracts, bills, vouchers, receipts and other documents relating to those records must be made available for inspection by any person interested. For the year ended 31 March 2022, these documents will be available on reasonable notice by application to: The Parish Clerk in the Parish Office, Main Street, Great Gidding, PE28 5NU Email : ggparishcouncil@outlook.com Telephone – 01832 293068 – please leave a message with dates when you would like to inspect the accounts. commencing on Monday 13 June 2022 and ending on Friday 22 July 2022
3. Local government electors and their representatives also have: The opportunity to question the appointed auditor about the accounting records; and The right to make an objection which concerns a matter in respect of which the appointed auditor could either make a public interest report or apply to the court for a declaration that an item of account is unlawful. Written notice of an objection must first be given to the auditor and a copy sent to the smaller authority. The appointed auditor can be contacted at the address in paragraph 4 below for this purpose between the above dates only.
4. The smaller authority’s AGAR is only subject to review by the appointed auditor if questions or objections raised under the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 lead to the involvement of the auditor. The appointed auditor is:PKF Littlejohn LLP (Ref: SBA Team)15 Westferry CircusCanary WharfLondon E14 4HD (sba@pkf-l.com)
5. This announcement is made by Julie Trolove, Parish Clerk
Minutes of the meeting held at Great Gidding Village Hall on Tuesday 21st September 2021
Present: Cllrs Hodson, Hill, Pudney and Bolton and the Clerk. 1 member of the public in attendance (SB)
076.21 Cllr Hodson, Chairman, welcomed those present to the meeting.
077.21 To receive apologies and reasons for absence
Cllr Macaig – work commitment
Cllr Cotton – family commitment
County Councillor Gardener
District Councillor Alban – at other meetings
078.21 There were no Disclosable Interests declared
079.21 No members of the Press were present. The member of the Public had sent details of a Speed Watch Camera prior to the meeting. This device, in addition to the Speed Awareness Sign, is intended to reduce still further those drivers exceeding the speed limit through the village as it “identifies the highest, persistent and illegal speeding vehicles”, with the intention of the details being forwarded to the Police for further action.
Cllr Hill outlined the measures that have been installed recently, including the Speed Awareness Sign, and those that have been agreed by CambsCC Highways Department for implementation in the near future on other roads in the Parish. He had forwarded the details of the Speed Watch Camera to Highways Department for advice. Highways Dept response -“No. It is an illegal form of data capture that would more than likely be in breach of GDPR. We wouldn’t consider the installation of any such device unless it was related to enforcement, and in particular on behalf of enforcement agencies who have the legal power to hold, process, and use this data as part of their role.”
nor do they permit signs being attached to existing posts or street furniture on Highways Dept land.
Cllr Hodson suggested that a community group, independent of the Parish Council, be formed to raise funds to purchase the required equipment and install such a system.
Cllr Hill advised that any unit and associated signage would have to be installed on private land. Data gathered from the Speed Awareness Sign, which has only been in situ for 2 months, is encouraging as the majority of drivers do abide by the speed limit, the Parish Council will continue to gather data and, should it show that there is a problem, may consider referring to the Police for further action.
080.21 The Minutes of the meeting held on 16th August 2021 were confirmed as a true and correct record. Proposed by Cllr Pudney and seconded by Cllr Hill.
081.21 Matters arising from those Minutes that will not be discussed as an agenda item.
Cllr Hodson advised that the bin, recently installed on the crossroads opposite the shop, is being emptied regularly.
082.21 To receive reports from Councillors and Clerk:
Clerk advised that renewal details of the Allotment Insurance Policy has been received and will require payment prior to the next meeting (now that Parish Council has taken on the management of the Allotments). Cllr Hodson declared an interest at this point but he had read the terms and conditions of the current policy and there was no provision for poultry (3 x allotment holders have poultry) – Clerk will check out if an additional clause can be added and a price.
Clerk has completed online reports to Highways Dept at CambsCC for damage to the road surface in Back Lane and overhanging/dropping vegetation in The Jitty between Gaines Lane and Main Street.
Cllr Pudney mentioned a recent communication had been distributed throughout the Parish for a website linking neighbours/trades etc – this is a countrywide scheme/website and is not linked to the Parish Council.
083.21 FINANCIAL MATTERS:
a) Barclays Bank statements + Mandate alteration + changes to terms and conditions of service from Barclays – copies had been forwarded to Councillors prior to the meeting.
b) Cashflow spreadsheet and Budget Forecast had been prepared by Cllr Hodson and shared prior to the meeting.
c) PAYMENTS AND ACCOUNTS
Who
What for
TOTAL
VAT
Authorised
Authorised
Bradgate Fencing (No )
Grass Cutting (invoice awaited)
J R Trolove
Wages for July (34)
Xxx
NONE
JRT
The payment was authorised (Bradgate invoice still not available for the meeting)
d) Clerk’s hours worked between 1st and 31st August ( 27 hours) were approved by all present
084.21 Planning Applications and Planning matters:
No Planning applications have been received as at 15/9/2021
085.21 Recreation Field Update:
a) MUGA – Cllr Macaig was not able to attend the meeting but had advised that there has been no further correspondence with Huntingdonshire District Council regarding the Planning Application.
b) The insurers AVIVA have made a payment in respect of the insurance claim for a like for like replacement spring toy. Clerk will instruct Online Playgrounds to carry out the work.
c) bench repair – replacement slats. Clerk will ask Cllr Macaig to confirm that he has the wood ready to repair the bench.
086.21 Local Highways Improvement grant 2022-23 – review of submission
Review of data from Speed awareness sign – the most recent download of information, with the sign taking readings from traffic travelling out towards Glatton, had been shared prior to the meeting. Results were encouraging as 82% of traffic had been within the speed limit.
Cllr Hill has prepared the application form and associated documents for the 2022-23 Local Highways Improvement bid – the junction to Little Gidding being the focus for this project. The Parish Council will offer £1000 towards the cost of this project.
Cllr Hodson proposed adding a post to enable the speed awareness sign to be located at this junction on occasions, which was met with approval. Cllr Hill will update the application before submitting to CambsCC.
087.21 Training opportunities for Parish Councillors and Clerk – dates were shared and Clerk encouraged Councillors to book their training.
Defibrillator training had been offered to parishioners via the most recent Gidding News – 6 people had expressed an interest and Cllr Pudney will deliver the training.
088.21 Noticeboards (or other method) for Parish Council use – how to share information about Parish/District/County/Government support/groups/information.
Cllr Hodson had considered the observation that the existing Parish Council notices on the board at the Village Hall were difficult to access for disabled/less able people and will look at alternative sites for this board.
Information sharing – Clerk will contact website hosts to enquire if there is a way to set up a Noticeboard/Information page for links that may be useful to residents, with a message encouraging friends and neighbours to share details with non-internet users, or contact the Clerk. Once set up this will be mentioned on the next issue of Gidding News so that all parishioners are aware.
089.21 Queens Jubilee 2022 – on the recent Gidding News, Parishioners were asked to submit ideas of how to mark or celebrate this event and that some funding is available. Clerk requested Councillors to consider areas of Parish owned land where a tree(s) might be planted. A deadline of 31st December had been proposed to enable funding/consultation/ideas to be put in place.
090.21 Correspondence received since 16 August 2021 (other than that discussed in agenda items above). The following items have been shared with Councillors prior to the meeting:
a) Email dated 17/8/2021 from NALC – Level up the environment through biodiversity
b) email dated 17/8/2021 from Neighbourhood Watch – Neighbourhood Watch Impact Report 2020/21
c) email dated 18/8/2021 from NALC (and other dates) – Making Rural Housing more affordable
d) email dated 23/8/2021 from NALC – Future Communities
e) email dated 23/8/2021 from CambsACRE – introducing How Are You (HAY)
f) email dated 25/8/2021 from Citizens Advice Rural Cambs – Announcing the launch of updated website
g) email dated 26/8/2021 from Shona Barton at CambsCC – information about how to close roads for events
i) email dated 2/9/2021 from traffic technology.co.uk – re. Speedwatch device – this was mentioned during the discussion 079.21, a copy was supplied to member of the Public as an alternative provider of a similar/same type of unit.
j) Cambs ACRE AGM – 29th September 2021 – Clerk will attend this online event.
091.21 Items for decisions at next meeting:
Prepare for Co-option of Parish Councillor
Climate Change – how this Parish is addressing and considering the issues
092.21 The next meeting will take place on Tuesday 19th October 2021
starting at 1930 hours in the Village Hall, Great Gidding
Minutes of the meeting held at Great Gidding Village Hall on Tuesday 18th May 2021
Present: Cllrs Hodson, Hill, Cotton, Maciag and Pudney, District Councillor Alban and the Clerk
001.21 Apologies for absence were received from County Councillor Gardener who was in attendance at another meeting
002.21 Election of Chairman and signing of Declaration of Acceptance of office.
There were no nominations for the position of Chairman. Cllr Hodson agreed to continue as Chairman.
Proposed by Cllr Hill and seconded by Cllr Cotton
003.21 Election of Vice Chairman and signing of Declaration of Acceptance of office.
There were no nominations for the position of Vice Chairman. Cllr Pudney agreed to continue as Vice Chairman.
Proposed by Cllr Hodson and seconded by Cllr Hill
004.21 Adoption of Standing Orders – there were no changes made to the Standing Orders.
Cllr Hill proposed and Cllr Hodson seconded
005.21 Adoption of Financial Regulations – the following amendment has been made Financial Regulations
At the meeting held on 21st April 2020 (see item 008.20)
Cllr Pudney proposed the use of internet banking rather than cheques to make payments during lockdown period (and thereafter). This was seconded by Cllr Hodson.
Cllr Pudney proposed adoption of the Financial Regulations and Cllr Hodson seconded.
006.21 Declaration of Interests – annual review. There have been no changes to the Interests of Councillors in the last year.
007.21 There were no member of the Public and Press in attendance
008.21 Items raised at the Annual Parish Meeting – this was the Council Tax enquiry (see 011.21 District Councillor Alban’s comments). A letter of response has been sent to the resident who enquired about the increase in the parish percentage and no further correspondence has been received regarding this matter. An item will be added to the next issue of the Clarion (to be distributed in June).
009.21 To approve the Minutes of the Parish Council meeting held on 20th April 2021
Cllr Pudney approved and Cllr Maciag seconded.
010.21 Matters arising from those Minutes that will not be discussed later in the meeting
Clerk was asked about the replacement bin at the crossroads opposite the shop. Clerk advised that the charge for a bin to be emptied weekly would be £252.64 and there is a recommended bin, price of £164.00 +VAT (£196.80)
Cllr Hodson proposed the purchase of the bin, Cllr Hill seconded.
011.21 Reports from Councillors:
District Councillor Alban – following the decision to recommence in person meetings, rather than online meetings, a request has been made to the Democratic Service Officer to request that County and District Councillors are permitted to attend meetings online as this enabled County and District Councillors to attend several meetings within a day/evening rather than being restricted to being present at one meeting.
The Annual meeting of the District Council will be held at the Burgess Hall in St Ives on 19th May, the venue allows for the require COVID distancing for Councillors and this is likely to remain the venue for the foreseeable future.
Pot holes along Milking Slade Lane and the Bullock Road have been reported and markings have appeared on these roads to identify areas to be repaired/resurfaced.
The Enforcement Officer has updated Councillor Alban regarding the land adjacent to 21 Mill Road and the Clerk confirmed that the Enforcement Officer has emailed the current position.
Following the Annual Parish Meeting, Councillor Alban had enquired of the Council Tax Team Leader if the District Council element of Council Tax was similarly affected (see attached document). It was agreed that an item will appear in the next issue of the Clarion to address the question around Council Tax that was posed at the Annual Parish Meeting as it was felt this the best way to inform all parishioners.
Huntingdon District Council leisure centres are now open again. There is no indication of when Sawtry Leisure Centre, now independent of Huntingdon Leisure Centre, will re-open as they are carrying out a refit and refurbishment programme.
*** District Councillor Alban left the meeting.
Cllr Maciaig advised that the Planning Application in respect of the MUGA was not yet registered on Huntingdon District Council’s planning list that appears on their website.
Cllr Hill – there have been no further developments regarding the LHI bid
Cllr Cotton and Cllr Hodson – nothing to report
Cllr Pudney – advised that there was another fly tipping incident in Back Lane, consisting of bags of grass clippings, which he has removed.
012.21 FINANCIAL MATTERS:
a) to note Barclays Bank statements
b) to note the Budget control statement and the cash flow forecast
c) PAYMENTS AND ACCOUNTS – to approve BACS online payments in respect of the following:
No 8 incorrect amount shown on Agenda – £99.66 should be £199.32 for 2 cuts of grass.
No 9 It was proposed by Cllr Hodson to accept the renewal premium, seconded by Cllr Pudney
Cllr Hill advised that the Vodaphone contract was due for renewal (through his personalaccount). Vodaphone offered 18 months or 24 months contract
Cllr Hodson proposed renewal for 24 months and this was agreed by all.
Receipts:
PRECEPT for 2021-22 – £11052.00
VAT to end of 2020-21 financial year – £121.58
d) to approve Clerk’s hours worked between 1st and 30th April (36 hours) – these were agreed.
e) End of year accounts for 2019-20 – preparation for the Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) – there were no additional comments or observations regarding the end of year accounts. A draft of the AGAR and Variances Report had also been forwarded to Councillors. Clerk and Cllr Hodson will meet to complete the required paperwork in readiness for approval and signature at the June meeting.
013.21 Planning matters:
Cllr Hodson observed that, in the light of the variety of planning matters that the Parish Council was receiving, some training on how a Parish Council can respond to planning applications and other planning issues was required to gain further understanding of the process and to ensure consistency in the future. (Clerk advised there were currently no training sessions arranged in respect of Planning – CAPALC/SLCC). He requested the Clerk to contact Councillor Dick Tuplin (Sawtry Parish Council), who had formerly served on the Planning Committee of the District Council, to ask him to deliver a training session to our Parish Council.
a) 65 Main Street:
Ref: 20/00243/ENTRÉE – removal of hedge – nothing new to report. This is being dealt with by the Planning Enforcement Officer and will no longer appear on the agenda.
Further Planning Application at this address for a 2 storey extension to provide a garden room and bedroom (Reference: 20/02564/HHFUL) *** Clerk has asked the Planning Department to extend the period in which the Parish Council may submit their comments on the application, the Planning Officer has agreed.
Following discussion regarding this application and the outstanding enforcement matter, it was proposed that an objection be made to the Planning Application, on the grounds that the hedge has not yet been replaced and the construction of the extension is of a size that precludes the re-instatement of the hedge.
Councillors voted on this proposal:
2 were against the motion and 3 were in favour.
Cllr Hill requested that it be recorded in the minutes that he did not support this refusal.
Huntingdonshire District Council will be advised of this refusal and the reasons.
b) Report no 34428 – Blocked public footpath (No 6) between Chapel End and Mill Road. Cllr Hodson advised that he has removed the rope from the gate again in recent weeks.
Clerk will contact the Footpath Officer to enquire what actions the Parish Council can take to ensure access along the length of a footpath.
c) land adjacent to 21 Mill Road – Update received from Enforcement Officer, due to the ongoing enforcement investigation, no details can be shared
014.21 Recreation Ground Update:
Cllr Hodson has removed 2 of the waste bins (stored in the container) and emptied 1 other bin.
An estimate to refurbish the “Huntingdon” bench from Wicksteed (Materials @ £935, labour @ £360 = £1295+VAT) was not accepted. Cllrs Pudney and Maciag will price up materials and assess the work required.
MUGA (see 011.21)
015.21 Request from parishioner for Clerk to act as “hub” for village WhatsApp groups.
The Clerk has sought advice and should not act as a hub for sharing such information.
Details of the WhatsApp groups and contact details will be included in the next issue of the Clarion.
016.21 Request to Parish Council from the Great Gidding Charity Trustees in respect of rental of village Allotments on an annual basis – this will be added to a future agenda.
017.21 Vacancies for Parish Councillors – notice to be displayed.
018.21 Parish Pound – resident’s proposal for the upkeep of this Parish asset.
Cllr Hodson confirmed that the Pound is an area in the ownership of the Parish Council, but not registered with the Land Registry. All present agreed that resident is welcome to maintain this area.
019.21 Review of Parish Council Asset Register – preparation for the Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR). Items on the Asset Register were agreed by all.
020.21 Correspondence received since 20th April 2021 (other than that discussed in agenda items above). Due to COVID 19 restrictions emails have been shared almost immediately.
a) East Anglian Childrens Hospice – newsletter – this Parish Council does not make donations to charity.
021.21 Items for decisions at next meeting:
Completion of the Annual Governance Statement and Certificate for Audit
Councillor Training
Allotment agreement
Co-option of Parish Councillor, should no one come forward in response to the vacancy.
022.21 Date of next meeting – Tuesday 15th June 2021, starting at 1930 hours
At Great Gidding Village Hall (unless we return to ZOOM meetings).
NOTICE OF PUBLIC RIGHTS AND PUBLICATION OF UNAUDITED ANNUAL GOVERNANCE & ACCOUNTABILITY RETURN
ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2021
Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 Sections 26 and 27
The Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015 (SI 2015/234)
NOTICE
1. Date of announcement – Wednesday 30th June 2021
2. Each year the smaller authority’s Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) needs to be reviewed by an external auditor appointed by Smaller Authorities’ Audit Appointments Ltd. The unaudited AGAR has been published with this notice. As it has yet to be reviewed by the appointed auditor, it is subject to change as a result of that review.
Any person interested has the right to inspect and make copies of the accounting records for the financial year to which the audit relates and all books, deeds, contracts, bills, vouchers, receipts and other documents relating to those records must be made available for inspection by any person interested. For the year ended 31 March 2021, these documents will be available on reasonable notice by application to:
The Parish Clerk,
Great & Little Gidding Parish Council,
The Parish Office at the Village Hall,
Main Street,
Great Gidding,
Huntingdon, PE28 5NU
TEL: 01832 293068 and leave a message
Email: ggparishcouncil@outlook.com
commencing on Thursday 1 July 2021
and ending on Wednesday 11 August 2021
3. Local government electors and their representatives also have:
The opportunity to question the appointed auditor about the accounting records; and
The right to make an objection which concerns a matter in respect of which the appointed auditor could either make a public interest report or apply to the court for a declaration that an item of account is unlawful. Written notice of an objection must first be given to the auditor and a copy sent to the smaller authority.
The appointed auditor can be contacted at the address in paragraph 4 below for this purpose between the above dates only.
4. The smaller authority’s AGAR is subject to review by the appointed auditor under the provisions of the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014, the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015 and the NAO’s Code of Audit Practice 2015. The appointed auditor is:
