CFPC - Minutes of the APM 17th April
Caythorpe and Frieston Parish Council
Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting held on 17th April 2024
Present:
Councillors: Crawley, Manderfield, Sandy, Roberts, Maughan and Milnes
There was 4 members of the public.
Clerk: Mrs D Manderfield
1 Apologies for Absence
Councillors: Middleditch, Topley, Macer, Macpherson, Farr
2 Approval of Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting 2023
These minutes had been presented previously and signed by the chairman as a true record of the meeting.
3 Matters Arising
There were no matters arising.
4 Annual Report from Portfolio Holders and the Chairman
The year started with the resignation of the chairman and a majority of the councilors, leaving myself and two other councilors who unfortunately did not make a quorum to enable the council to continue to operate.
Last minute arrangements meant that Tim Dudfield applied for the role of Councilor and was duly elected and this enabled the Council to perform its duties.
Since that time there has been a concerted campaign to recruit new councilors and this has been largely successful although a couple of Councilors have been co opted to the council and have subsequently resigned. At present we have one vacancy which I am hopeful will be filled in the near future.
One Councilor (Andy Roberts) is nearing the end of his service to the community having served on the Parish Council for a huge number of years. His experience and forthright views will be greatly missed when he decides the time is right for him to step down.
All of this has left the Council in a bit of a state of flux, as Councilors have got to grips with the role of being a Parish Councilor and got to know their portfolios and the people who they are now dealing with.
Many of these new councilors are showing great aptitude for their role and will hopefully serve our community in a positive manner for years to come.
We are due to lose our part time litter picker shortly as he studies for his A levels and hopes to go on to University. However the post has been advertised and there have been a number of different applicants. It is hoped a replacement will be appointed shortly.
Projects undertaken including supporting the Village Hall Committee with obtaining a grant for the renewal of the Village Hall roof and making a donation towards the cost of renewal of flooring in the chair store and freezer room. We have also obtained grants for the electrification and repair of the church clock at no cost to the Council.
Work to make good the sinkage in the burial ground is being undertaken, and we continue to liaise with our County Council representative Alexander Maughan regarding roads and highways and Mid Uk. Our Local Councilor Penny Milne is a regular attendee at our meetings and is a source of great knowledge and assistance with issues at South Kesteven District Council.
We have obtained a new defibrillator to replace the one at Frieston that had stopped working. This was part funded through a grant that we obtained. The four defibrillators around the villages are now in good working order and are checked regularly.
We are preparing to celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the D Day landings in June.
Two Christmas trees were purchased, erected and lit on the lower green at Frieston and by the War memorial outside the Church. The carols round the tree event with the Sleaford brass band was again well supported and will be run next year.
The Remembrance Day service was well attended and additional wreaths were purchased to commemorate each of the people from the villages who lost their lives in war.
There have been several burials at the Burial Ground and a number of plots have been purchased for future use. The schedule of charges for use of the Burial ground has been updated. The dilapidated gates have been renewed in a matching style and decorated.
The council have obtained a stock of sandbags that are now filled and ready for use in the event of localized flooding.
Several new benches have been obtained and installed at various locations around the villages.
We have written a Neighbourhood Plan and this has been adopted following approval by SKDC and will influence our stance on planning issues. Huge thanks go to the team who undertook this project.
We are in the process of formally registering our ownership of the Village Hall, as it appears the original documentation could not be found.
We have considered all planning applications within the Parish and made comment to SKDC on each one.
Mid Uk continue to pose problems for our community. However there was ameeting last night when A representative from the Company disclosed that following a review by the new owners,it had been decided to change the work carried out at Caythorpe. This will include the skip hire business and recycling wood, stone and aggregate. All other operations are being discontinued and this should lead to a reduction in vehicle movements, litter and smell. The planned night time working will also not now take place.
In November, we held the first firework display since the demise of the display historically run by the Sports and Social club. This was a great success with many local volunteers assisting the professional Firework Company to put on a memorable display. Catering and drinks from the Social Club made this a great evening that was supported by sponsorship from a number of local businesses and from donations made by members of the public. Planning is already well in hand for a repeat display this year.
We have been liaising with Peter Sowerby and the footpath officer at LCC regarding the plan to divert the footpath that runs across the front of Caythorpe Hall.
We lost the use of our handyman last year, when he retired after many years of service to the Council. However we have obtained the services of a new hamdyman who has taken over many of the minor maintenance jobs that the council undertake such as emptying dog waste bins, cleaning bus stops and Village Entrance gates , grass cutting at the war memorial, and general maintenance around the old Police Office.
We organised a celebration of the Coronation of King Charles which was well supported by local businesses, and a grant, and well attended and appreciated by local people.
We continue to cut the grass at the burial ground and the two greens at Frieston, and following feedback from local residents have instigated the use of a mulching attachment for the contractors mower, to try and reduce the amount of cut grass deposited after each mowing.
Myself and other local residents have raised and donated trees that have been planted out at various locations around the village to improve the landscape, provide wildlife habitat and act as carbon sinks. My thanks go to those who have donated trees and volunteered with planting and maintenance.
In accordance with our insurance requirements, we have engaged the services of a local arboriculturist to survey and report on our mature trees around the village.
We have been active in reporting pot holes and other issues regarding our local roads to SKDC and LCC for remedial works.
Various Councilors continue to attend meetings of the Village Hall Committee, The Playing Field Committee and act as a point of contact between those bodies and the Council.
News and Views continues to be a great village publication with lots of information about village events, and has recently won awards for their work. Congratulations to Pete and Laura Leeds for their dedication putting this together each month as well as the Printers, Westgate Print, and the team of volunteers who deliver it to our doors come rain or shine.
Finally finance. We derive all of our income from the Parish Council precept which is included in the Community charge levied on each property by SKDC. As all of our outgoings continue to rise in price, in line with inflationary trends, we found it necessary to increase the amount of precept this year. This was a comparatively small amount per property, but will enable us to continue to serve the villages in a beneficial manner. It is worth noting that it is a smaller increase in precept than many other Parish Councils applied.
So in summary, we have had a good year despite many challenges. That is solely due to the work that our employees, including most notably our Clerk, and to the time and effort that your volunteer Councilors donate. I would like to end by thanking all of those who have helped the Councilors and the Parish Council throughout the year, and hope we can rely on your continuing support in the coming year.
4.1 Cllr David Manderfield – Highways and Village Hall Portfolio Holder
I became a councillor in June 2023 and hold portfolios for Highways and The Village Hall.
Highways
I have reported potholes via Fix My Street on a regular basis most of which have been marked for repair or have been filled. I have also reported road signs which were in need of repair or replacement.
I have contacted SKDC regarding a number of streetlights around the village which are not working.
Village Hall
I regularly attended the Village Hall committee meetings as the Parish Councils representative.
My detailed reports can be found in the Parish Council minutes.
4.2 Tim Dudfield - Planning Portfolio update
This report excludes planning applications for work on trees within the conservation area and trees with preservation orders, I’ve also excluded any applications concerning procedural compliance with conditions.
Village Hall
Chattertons have now sent the relevant paper work to the Land Registry to get the ownership of the village hall registered to the Parish Council. They have advised that the Land Registry can take up to 2 years to process an application.
S23/0949 Land adjacent to 27 Old Lincoln Road Caythorpe
Remove requirement for obscure glazing on east elevation first floor windows.
Five councillors objected to this change and none were in favour, however when I read application and looked at the drawings it became apparent, they have removed the first-floor windows in the east elevation and added a second window in the west elevation, both these windows are for en-suit bathrooms and will be obscured.
Therefore, it would be illogical to object to not having obscure glazing in windows which are no longer on the plans.
To remove any doubt CFPC have advised the planners that we do not object to this change but any first-floor windows must have obscure glazing and this should be an ongoing condition to the approval.
Approved by SKDC 06-09-23
S23/0964 58 High Street Caythorpe
Listed Building Consent repairs to roof and stone work around windows and doors.
Including myself 6 councillors supported this application
Approve by SKDC 16-10-23
S23/1077 Coach House Church Lane Caythorpe
Section 73 application to vary condition 5 (archaeological investigations) of S20/1018,
The application is asking for variation of when the archaeological investigations that are part of the approved application, are carried out. There appears to be no change to the original approved building plans.
Approved by SKDC 30-05-23
S23/0686 New Houses & Barn Waterloo Road
This application mainly concerns the barn that is located within the grounds of the two new houses that have been recently been built on Waterloo Road.
The barn has permission to be converted into a house the application is to vary the design to add a second floor to an existing single story section of the barn on the south end of the barn.
Including myself two councillors supported the application there were no objections.
Approved by SKDC 06/11/23
S23/1448 Frieston Heath Lodge Frieston Heath Lane
Change of land use from agricultural to domestic curtilage, addition of garage/carport, driveway turning space, timber fencing and stone wall, ancillary to existing barn conversion
Including myself 7 councillors supported this application there were no objects.
Approved by SKDC 28-11-23
S23/1451 Haywood New Farm House Gorse Hill Barns
Including myself I have six responses from the Parish Council
All six support the application there were some differing opinions on conditions applied to this support, all six wanted the development to conform to the parish plan so should be carbon neutral and include an EV charger.
Two councillors wanted the addition of solar panels and air source heat pumps and two councillors wanted the addition of an agricultural tie.
So working on a majority basis I made the following statement to SKDC :-
CFPC support this application but request that to comply with our Parish Plan the development should be carbon neutral and should include an EV charging point.
Application withdrawn 02/04/24
S23/1521 Elm Farm Equestrian Centre Frieson Heath Lane. Application for flood lights on manege
Including myself 10 councillors supported this application with the majority wanting the lighting to cease operation at 9pm
Application withdrawn 31-10-23
S23/1178 New House behind 20B Old Lincoln Road. This application has been withdrawn 22-08-23
S23/1642 Caythorpe School High Street
Addition of solar panels
Including myself 9 councillors supported this application with no objections
Application Approved by SKDC 23-10-23
S23/1823 Waterloo Road Application to build a new bungalow
Including myself five councillors supported this application there were no objections.
Therefore the response to SKDC was as follows :-
CFPC support this application in principle, however in order to comply with our parish plan the property should be carbon neutral and fitted with an EV charger, we also have concerns that no arrangements for sewage or surface water drainage have been indicated in the application, this must be resolved before permission is granted.
Application Approved by SKDC 18-12-23
S23/1982 Rear of 35 Old Lincoln Road Proposed pair of semi-detached houses. Confirmation of compliance on time limit to approved planning application S17/1847.
Including myself 3 councillors supported this and one councillor objected.
The decision is the condition had been complied with and therefore the development can good ahead as originally planned.
Approved by SKDC by SKDC 29-11-23
S23/2077 4 Richmond Close Extension to bungalow
Including myself 6 councillors supported this application.
Approved by SKDC 12-01-24
S24/0190 and S24/0191 Waggon and Horses
I’m not sure why there are two what appear to be identical applications for this work at the Waggon and Horses, could be something to do with listed buildings.
The application involves fairly minor works to the exterior of the pub, broadly comprising :-
• Removal of existing rotten faux window shutters
• Repainting external windows and doors blue.
• Replacing the two pergolas
• Timber cladding to two small areas of brick work facing the garden
• Installation of two 6ft x 8ft timber sheds
Including myself 8 councillors supported the application there have been no objections.
Application is awaiting a decision from SKDC 07-04-24
S24/0297 Caythorpe Residential Home 77 High Street
Retrospective application for extensions new windows and doors to the rear of the building.
Including myself 3 councillors supported this application
Application is awaiting a decision from SKDC 07-04-24
PFI Kart Circuit
The PC received a copy of the Karting Circuit annual report which indicates they are aware they could be considered to a nuisance due to noise and the measures they are taking to mitigate the problem.
They also indicated they want to have road signs to show where they are, I believe the process for obtaining the brown tourist signs, requires them to contact LCC, who if they agree signs are required, will consult with district and parish councils. The general opinion of the PC is we should support them as they are a local business and employer located within the parish, however no action can be taken until we hear from LCC.
Brandon Wood Clay Shooting Ground
We have been advised by Brandon Wood Clay Shooting Association which I believe is an action group of local residents who have concerns of the noise the shooting ground creates, that SKDC had issued an enforcement notice against the shooting ground on the basis they had exceeded the number of days they could hold shoots.
I've looked into the planning history of the site and they are allowed to hold shoots on 50 days per with restricted hours of operation and only pre-booked groups no walk-in pay on the day customers.
The applicant seems to have a long history of planning application to increase the number of days and hours of operation which have been refused.
Subsequent to the enforcement notice we have been advised by SKDC that the applicant has appealed this enforcement, and we can comment on the appeal process either supporting the appeal or objecting to it.
The view of the PC was that we should support SKDC against the appeal and we will be given a chance to do this as part of the appeal process.
4.3 Cllr Neil Macer – Community Heartbeat Portfolio Holder
Throughout the year, on a weekly/bi-weekly basis I check and maintain the 4 defibrillators located at the Old Chapel, Village Hall, Sports Pavilion & Frieston (outside Laburham Cottage NG323BY). During the year the one in Frieston failed and was replaced with the aid of a 50% grant and a local community member installing the new cabinet. All are in working order and registered with the emergency service.
4.4 Report from Caythorpe Village Hall Committee
The current committee took over the running of the Village Hall in July 2022. Since then, we have been responsible for regular hall lettings, organising various community events and overseeing the upkeep and maintenance of the hall.
There are 9 local groups who use the hall on a regular basis including keep fit, badminton, indoor bowls, yoga, Beavers, Scouts and Cubs. A regular Pilates class is currently being set up too. The hall is also let privately for different events like parties, birthday gatherings, wedding receptions and the annual Arnhem get together.
Since forming the new committee, the monthly big breakfast has been reinstated and remains hugely popular, catering for up to 70 villagers. A group called ‘Chill and Chat’ has been started by the committee and takes place on the third Friday of each month. This is a free drop in for anyone who wants to meet new people, play board games, get some free IT advice and have cake and coffee. Three very successful film nights have been organised by popular demand, and another one will be held in October. These have been attended by up to 70 local people. A free cream tea last June attracted nearly 90 people, and will be repeated this year to mark the end of the ‘Big Help Out’ weekend. Two fund raising events in aid of the Scouts and the Village Hall have taken place, together with the much-enjoyed community Christmas Dinner and the Pantomime.
A thriving community village hall needs ongoing maintenance which this year has included roof and floor repairs, internal decoration, and a new back door and a double glazing unit. New chairs with arms, tables, high chairs and a fridge freezer have also been purchased to improve our premises and meet the requirements of hall users
4.5 Cllr Andy Crawley – Playing Field, Litter Picking & The Big Clean & Environmental Sustainability Portfolio Holder
Litter Picking and the Big Clean
The litter picker employed by the Council has handed in his resignation in order to continue with his studies. An advert has been placed and a number of applicants have applied. An appointment will be made after the closing date of 15th April.
A member of the public has volunteered to do some litter picking around the village. I have issued him with some equipment and basic guidelines.
I have reported various fly tippings to SKDC who have cleared these promptly.
Environmental Sustainability
Sites for new tree planting are sought as I have a number of trees that have been raised by myself and volunteers that currently have no destination.
A number of trees have been planted by myself and a volunteer to replace those that failed to survive and supplement those planted around the villages. Hedges have been trimmed on the playing field.
The work to increase the insulation levels to the Hammond Pavilion and renew the gutters and fascias has been carried out.
At the meeting with Mid Uk held on Tuesday 16th April, , it was disclosed by the Company representative that following a review, the Caythorpe plant will be altering what it takes in, to concentrate on Skip hire, and stone and aggregate recycling. This should have a positive effect on the number of vehicle movements and amount of litter deposited.It was also disclosed that the plans for extended working hours have been shelved for the time being.
Mid UK have agreed to look in to complaints about their vehicles and the redundant chimney and fire damaged building.
Playing Fields
Following the receipt of quotes for replacing the bark on the play area with a rubberised material, it was apparent that the cost was prohibitive. The bark surface will be topped up in the spring /early summer. Alternative quotes are being obtained for the supply of suitable material.
An extension to the patio area outside the Sports and Social club is wanted and contractors have been approached, and several quotes have been obtained. It appears that Lincolnshire Cricket are unable to help with funding this work. Alternative sources of funding are being explored. No progress to date.
The grant application for replacing the windows and doors at the Hammond Pavilion through the FCC Communities Fund has been declined. A recent committee meeting decided that without grant, this project was not affordable nor achievable, and alternative costs for replacing two sets of double doors and repairing and repainting the remainder of the doors and windows are being sought. A further quote has been obtained which is only marginally cheaper than the one already obtained. Work in abeyance for the time being.
The solar project is still under discussion.
The ‘annual grant’ has been paid to the Playing Field Committee.
The DASH due to be held last month, but has been cancelled due to personal issues with the organizers. It is hoped that the autumn event will still take place.
Planning for the Gala is proceeding for this year’s event in September.
A second Firework event is being planned for 2nd November 2024. A subcommittee has met to discuss and agree the way forward and will continue to do so as necessary. Galaxy Fireworks have been booked and a deposit paid.
It is believed that the old Police Office has been mothballed by Lincolnshire Police. A letter has been composed and sent to the Police and Crime Commissioner expressing our interest in acquiring this site should they decide to sell it. Nothing has been heard from the PCC although he was recently on the news, saying that any decision to dispose of police buildings will be taken by the new Chief Constable.
Christmas Celebrations
Sleaford brass band have reserved a spot for the Carols around the tree at a date to be arranged
4.6 Report from Tom Mountain - PGL
Matt Kevern has made a move to manage one of our sites in Weymouth.
I therefore wanted to take the opportunity to introduce – electronically – Sam Bates (samantha.bates@pgl.co.uk) to you all. She has recently been appointed as the new General Manager. Sam has worked at the site for over 10 years, and therefore as a wealth of PGL and local knowledge, already fully understanding our desire to be a good neighbour to the village. Sam will continue to ensure her team play their part in the local community.
I wanted to send this email to provide you all with a new direct point of contact for when you need PGL’s help and support. I’ve circulated to a wide group, but please do pass this on as necessary.
4.7 Cllr Sean Topley – Shops, Businesses & Employment, Emergency Plan & Christmas Celebrations Portfolio Holder
Emergency Plan
1 Tonne bag of sand obtained from SKDC along with 100 small bags, these were filled and palletised and under storage in the big barn at Ben Ullyott’s yard on Love Lane NG32 3DE and are ready for future use.
All Grit bins were reported on “Fix my Street” and replenished before winter. I have an on- going conversation about the grit bin replacement at the end of Arnhem Drive.
Local Business’s
I am in the process of addressing all local business’s to see if the require any help from the PC.
4.8 Gala Committee Representative
There have been a number of quiz nights and fundraisers. The Gala Committee is now running independently of the Playing Field Committee, and as it is the 80th anniversary of D Day the committee are hoping the gala will, again be a great success
5 Any Other Business:
A representative from Quickline attended and explained that the company were planning to introduce new internet infrastructure. Cllr Crawley invited the gentleman to the full Parish Council meeting in May. He explained that there were some civil works that were required, but there would be no more poles erected
Cllr Crawley thanked all those present and closed the meeting