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Pebworth Parish Council

Council Meeting 6th January 2025

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  1. Agenda
  2.  Minutes

Agenda

 

To all Members of the Council

 

You are hereby summoned to attend an ordinary meeting of the Pebworth Parish Council to be held in Mary’s Room at the Village Hall, Pebworth on Monday 6th January 2025 at 7.00pm for the purpose of transacting the following business only.

 

 

 

Donna Bowles
Clerk to the Council                                                                                        

 

MEETING AGENDA

 

1.         Apologies:

To consider any Members reasons of absence
2.         Register of Interests:

Members are reminded of the need to keep their register of interests up to date.

Members are reminded that they must act solely in the public interest and should never

improperly confer an advantage or disadvantage on any person or act to gain financial or other

material benefits for themselves, their family, a friend, or close associate.

 

Disclosure of Interests
Members to disclose any disclosable pecuniary interests in items on the agenda and their nature.

 
3.         Open Forum

Chairman to Move: The Meeting & Standing Orders be now adjourned:

 

At the Chairman’s discretion residents are invited to give their views and question the Parish Council on issues on this agenda or raise issues for future consideration.  Members of the public may not take part in the Parish Council Meeting.  There will be no discussion by members of the Council during this session but the views expressed may be considered later as part of particular agenda items.  During this period, in accordance with the revised Code of Conduct, members of the Council who have a disclosable interest (but not a disclosable pecuniary interest) in an item on the agenda may also make representations, answer questions, or give evidence relating to that item.

 

To receive Ward Member’s Reports.

County Cllr Adams

District Councillor Ciotti

District Councillor Robson

Chairman to Move: To close the adjournment and the suspension of Standing Orders
4.         Minutes:

To consider and approve the wording of the Clerk’s Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Monday 2nd December 2024 – circulated 3rd December 2024
5.         Planning Matters:

W/24/02522/HP Location: Woodford, 4 Norton Gardens, Pebworth, Stratford Upon Avon, CV37 8YA Description of Proposal: Garage conversion to form a habitable ancillary accommodation. Comments due by 3rd January.
6.         Finance:

a)       To consider and approve the third quarterly bank reconciliation, account balances and income and expenditure budgets.

b)      To finalise the budget and set the precept for 2025-26.

c)       To receive the Clerk’s report on payments made since the last meeting

d)       To consider for approval the schedule of payments to be made by internet banking
7.         Council & Community Matters:

Clerk reminded Members of the defibrillator and First Aid training session on Saturday 11th January 10am – 1pm at Pebworth Village Hall.

To note the ditch clearance works on Friday St have been completed.
8.         Meon Way Gardens:

To receive summary of responses from Cllr Mccluskey
9.         NDP:

To consider recommendations from Brodie Planning regarding a Housing Needs Survey
10.     The Close & Recreation Field

To note monthly report and consider any works required
11.     Street Lighting:

To note the two streetlights at the end of New Road have been repaired by Bromford Housing.
12.     Highway Matters:

To note Clerk requested a road sweep of the village following last month’s meeting and was advised that all sweeping has been delayed due to resources, normally Pebworth would be on a quarterly or biannually schedule, however if there is a specific road that is of concern they will log it in to the system for a cleanse.
13.     Lengthsman/Maintenance Matters:

a)       To note Lengthsman’s jobs issued from last Council meeting; comment on progress

b)       To consider future tasks to be issued to the Lengthsman

c)       To note VAS data
14.     Policy Reviews:

a)       Complaints

b)       Disciplinary

c)       Grievance

d)       H&S

e)       To consider the adoption of a Biodiversity Policy

f)        To consider the adoption of an Investment Strategy Policy
15.     Matters raised by Councillors: for consideration and or items for future agendas
16.     Date of Next Meeting:

To confirm the date of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting at 7.00pm on Monday 3rd February 2025 at the Village Hall, Pebworth.
17.     Closure of Meeting :

 

 Minutes

 Pebworth Parish Council

Minutes of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting held

At the Village Hall, Pebworth on Monday 6th January 2025

 

Present:  Councillors: Richard Weller (Chairman), Simon Shiers, David Cranage, Jodi Cotton & Eugene Mccluskey

In attendance: District Councillors Hannah Robson & Judith Ciotti, Mrs D Bowles (Clerk)

 

Also in attendance: 14 members of the public.

1.        Apologies Considered for Absence:

Cllr Pearson
2.        Register of Interests:

Disclosures of Interests:

Members were reminded of the need to keep their register of interests updated. Members were asked to

declare any Disclosable Pecuniary or other Interests in items considered in virtual meetings and their

nature.   

None declared
3.        Open Forum: The Chairman suspended the formal meeting for the Ward Members and public participation.

a)       14 members of the public were in attendance:

–          Questions were raised about The English Devolution White Paper, titled “Power and Partnership: Foundations for Growth,” which was published on 16 December 2024, outlining the Government’s plans to reorganise local government structures, particularly in two-tier areas and certain unitary councils, to enhance the delivery of public services. It is anticipated that further details, including timelines, will be provided as the government progresses with its devolution agenda

–          A question was raised about whether Meon Vale could establish its own Parish Council. While there has been some discussion on this matter, Stratford-upon-Avon District Council has indicated that it is unlikely to happen for several years, if at all.

–          Concerns were expressed about crime at Meon Way Gardens. A request was made for the Parish Council to facilitate the removal of Citizen Housing. However, as this matter falls outside the Parish Council’s remit, District Councillors Robson and Ciotti will address it.

–          Flooding issues at Meon Way Gardens were highlighted. As the road is not yet adopted, responsibility lies with Persimmon. While an emergency road is planned, no specific completion date has been provided. District Councillor Robson will investigate whether the timeline can be expedited.

b)       County Councillor Adams sent his apologies, report is appended below the minutes.

c)       District Councillors Robson & Ciotti reported :

–          the UK Shared Prosperity Fund is in its final round.

–          District Councillor Ciotti attended a briefing from Citizens Advice Bureau

–          District Councillor Robson has received a decision report for the Fibrex planning application recommending for approval. Parish Council confirmed this does not need to go to Committee.

The Chairman closed the open forum and reconvened the meeting at 19:45
4.        Acceptance of Minutes:

The Minutes of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting held on Monday 2nd December 2024 at the Village Hall, Pebworth were considered and approved by the Council to be a true record of the meeting and were signed by the Chairman.
5.        Planning Matters:

a)       W/24/02522/HP Location: Woodford, 4 Norton Gardens, Pebworth, Stratford Upon Avon, CV37 8YA Description of Proposal: Garage conversion to form a habitable ancillary accommodation. Not enough responses were received for Clerk to provide a reply.

Decisions:

b)      W/24/02324/HP Proposal: Single storey extension to the rear, first floor extension above existing snug and demolish existing conservatory. Location: Dormer Cottage, Pebworth Road, Ullington, Pebworth, Stratford Upon Avon, CV37 8XG. Application approved subject to conditions
6.        Finance:

a)       It was resolved to approve the third quarterly bank reconciliation, account balances and income and expenditure budgets. Cllr Cotton initialled.

b)      Council considered the budget and precept recommendations from the finance group and agreed a proposal put by Cllr Weller and seconded by Cllr Cranage that the precept for 25-26 to be £58,935. The proposal was unanimously agreed; Clerk to inform Wychavon District Council.

Update: An error was identified in transferring figures from the previous year, which would have resulted in a 14.65% increase. After recalculating, it was determined that maintaining a 0% increase requires a precept of £53,250. Deducting the £1,815 grant results in a revised precept request of £51,435. This corrected figure ensures that income remains sufficient to cover budgeted expenditures. The updated precept figure was approved via email with Members, and the Clerk has submitted the revised request of £51,435 to Wychavon District Council.

c)       Council noted the Clerk’s report on payments made since the last meeting:

 

PAYMENT PAYEE DETAILS TOTAL VAT NET
BACS Limebridge Rural Services Shockwave Treatment Rec Field 660.00 110.00 550.00
BACS Clive Giddings Hedge – Rec Field 180.00   180.00
BACS Grosvenor Lawn Systems Ditch clearance & removal 60.00   60.00
BACS Cotswold First Aid Basic First Aid & AED Training 144.00 24.00 120.00
      1044.00 134.00 910.00

 

d)       The Council gave consideration and unanimous approval of the payments listed in Appendix A, confirming the payments in Appendix A have been approved by full Council and there is provision within the budget, and that financial regulations and relevant policies have been followed. Cllr Weller to authorise the payments made by internet banking.
7.        Council & Community Matters:

a)       Clerk reminded Members of the defibrillator and First Aid training session on Saturday 11th January 10am – 1pm at Pebworth Village Hall.

b)       Members noted the ditch clearance works on Friday St have been completed.
8.        Meon Way Gardens:

Cllr Mccluskey talked through the responses relating to the consultation which he will send via email. Clerk advised for Members to review the results ahead of the February meeting where they can be discussed further.
9.        NDP:

Members considered the recommendation from Wendy Hopkins, Brodie Planning Associates, to carry out a Housing Needs Survey. Clerk to request further information from Wendy Hopkins before making a decision. Further queries were raised which will be forwarded to Wendy for a response.
10.    The Close & Recreation Field

Members noted the monthly reports with no remedial works required.
11.    Streetlighting:

Members noted the two streetlights at the end of New Road have been repaired by Bromford Housing.
12.    Highway Matters:

Clerk has advised Wychavon District Council to prioritise Back Lane, Front Street, Chapel Road, Friday Street, School Road for a road sweep.
13.    Lengthsman/Handyman Matters:

a)       Future Tasks:

Nothing at this time.

b)      The VAS data was noted
14.    Policy Reviews:

a)       Complaints – this was approved with a review date of Jan 2027

b)       Disciplinary – this was approved with a review date of Jan 2027

c)       Grievance – this was approved with a review date of Jan 2027

d)       H&S – this was approved with a review date of Jan 2026

e)       Cllr Shiers will provide the draft Biodiversity Policy for the February meeting

f)        Members to consider the adoption of an Investment Strategy Policy at the February meeting.
15.    Matters Raised by Members: The following matters were raised by Council Members for consideration for future agendas:

a)       Nothing raised.
16.    Date of Next Meeting:

Council confirmed the date of the next Ordinary Parish Council Meeting on Monday 3rd February 2025 at 7.00pm in the Village Hall, Pebworth.
17.    Closure of Meeting:  The Chairman closed the meeting at 21:00 hrs

 

 

 

Chairman: ______________________________________________Date:_________________

 

FINANCE

 

Verified & Confirmed Account Balances as at 13th December 2024

 

 

Treasurers Account 7,723.19
Business Bank Instant 56,162.39
Total 63,885.58

 

APPENDIX A – PAYMENTS

 

PAYMENT PAYEE DETAILS TOTAL VAT NET
BACS HMRC Clerk & P C Tax & NIC 156.56 156.56
BACS Mrs D Bowles Clerk’s Salary & Expenses 608.57 608.57
BACS John Hyde Lengthsman Works 105.75 0.00 105.75
DD Nest Clerk’s Pension 88.98 88.98
DD O2 Mobile Phone 10.03 1.67 8.36
DD Yu Energy Streetlight Energy 83.44 3.97 79.47
DD Yu Energy Streetlight Energy 17.76 0.85 16.91
1071.09 6.49 1064.60

 

County Councillor Report – Pebworth

Month:  January 2025

Prepared by Alastair Adams

Littletons Division, Worcestershire County Council covering Pebworth (including Meon Way Gardens), Honeybourne, Badsey, Bretforton, Offenham, Cleeve Prior, South Littleton, North & Middle Littelton, Ullington, Bickmarsh and Broad Marston)

 

 

 

Dear Resident,

I wish you all a wonderful New Year!

 

Help with paying bills from Worcestershire County Council

The Household Support Fund (HSF) is a government initiative designed to alleviate the financial burden of rising living costs for vulnerable households across England. In Worcestershire, grants are available of up to £500 for utility costs, including electricity, gas, water, and heating fuels. Households with children under 18 (or 21 if in full-time education) can receive the maximum £500 grant, while adult-only households are eligible for up to £300. The Worcestershire County Council has established income thresholds and vulnerability criteria to determine eligibility, focusing on households with annual incomes of £31,000 or less, including those receiving benefits. You can apply via this link

 

https://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/council-services/environment/sustainability-and-carbon-reduction/tackling-fuel-poverty/household-support-fund

 

 

 

DEVOLUTION WHITE PAPER / LOCAL GOVERNMENT RESTRUCTURING

 

On 16th December 2024 the Labour Government published their Devolution White Paper, alongside their National Planning Policy Framework changes. This will be the biggest change to local government and democracy we have seen in our life time.

 

Here is a message from the leader of Worcestershire County Councillor Simon Geraghty that explains more;

Just prior to Christmas, the Government signalled the end of two-tier governance in the English Devolution White Paper and therefore our district and county councils will be abolished. I think it is essential to emphasise this is not optional, the Government could not be clearer that whether we like it or not this is happening, and we are to face the largest change that we have seen to local government in over 50 years. We will be required to move to a unitary structure in a relatively short timescale, alongside developing devolution proposals for a Strategic Authority which ultimately will have an elected  Mayor.

 

From my prospective, I think this is crazy especially when you consider what else is going on in the world; why throw something else into to chaos? Also,  the Labour government gave a ridiculous timeframe of 10 Jan 2025 for councils to confirm whether they are willing to go Unitary. It was suggested that early adopters will be able to specify their area of choice. So Worcestershire County Council felt they had to reply saying they are willing to go unitary and their preference is to be a countywide unitary ie just for Worcestershire. However all the power is with the minister and we could be instructed to merge with Hereford or Gloucestershire or even West Midlands which the majority of WCC councillors think would be an even bigger disaster!

If the minister decides Worcestershire can be an early adopter and is a Worcestershire based unitary, then the WCC elections planned for May 2025 will be probably deferred to May 2026, but again this is the Minister’s decision.

 

As you know I had announced before Christmas that I was standing down from being a County Councillor after 12 years of service to the community. However, if the elections are postponed, I have been asked to stay on until May 2026. So you may have me for another year!

 

However, I must stress, nothing has yet been agreed, and everything seems to be in the hands of the minister, Jim McMahon (Minister of State for Local Government and English Devolution).

 

One other thing to raise is the distress for all the 4500+ employees of the county council and the 6 district & city councils as most don’t know whether that will have a job in the Unitary. I believe many council employees will decide to leave or take early retirement (if the can) and as a consequence a lot of good experienced and knowledgeable staff will be lost to the new organisation. This will give the new Unitary a big headache and I fear the outcome for the public will be a poorer service from the council for several years.

 

 

More flooding – 6th January 2025

Not a great start to the New Year, following the heavy rain on Monday 6th January we did see floods down in Broad Marston,  under Honeybourne Bridges and at the crossroads by The Gate in Honeybourne. This was disappointing but without all the flood alleviation work we have done over the recent years, it would have been much worse. The good news is no houses have been reported as being flooded internally.

 

There is still further flood alleviation work to be done as a consequence :-

 

  1. Gullys cleansed under Honeybourne Bridges – Further jetting has now been organised to clear outflow pipes to further improve the situation.
  2. Bund in farmers field by the Honeybourne bridges repaired but it is to be extended to prevent water coming down Middle Barn entrance onto the road.
  3. Tom Furness has agreed to fit a wide ACO drain at the bottom of Grove Farm drive to prevent run off from the farm onto Stratford Rd which will also help prevent flooding under the bridges.
  4. In Broad Marston, the bund in the field opposite Cotswold View is also to be extended and a non-return valve on the new drainage pipe in the verge to be fitted.
  5. Also in Broad Marston, some water was coming onto the road via the kerb gully by Cotswold View. A higher headwall is to be built where the non-return valve is situated by Noleham Brook.
  6. The gully by the bus shelter opposite the church, and the kerb gully at the entrance to the church car park are partially blocked so further work is planned to investigate the cause and carry our some improvements works. This is scheduled for week commencing 24/2/25. PLEASE NOTE THE CAR PARK WILL BE CLOSED TO CARS FROM THE MONDAY MORNING 24TH FEBRUARY 2025.

 

Highways:

Please check https://one.network/  to see all the temporary road closures and temporary traffic lights on a regular basis.

 

  • Pavement being resurfaced along Pebworth Rd scheduled for week commencing 17th February – see below

 

 

 

  • “Worcestershire” sign-post to be erected at the entrance into Meon View Gardens. This new housing estate of 380+houses is in Pebworth Parish and therefore in Worcestershire but many people are unaware of this and assume it is in Gloucestershire or Warwickshire. Hopefully the new sign will make it clearer.

 

  • Also can I remind everyone to try and keep the road gullys outside their houses free of debris so the drains work effectively. Simply remove any leaves or mud with a brush or spade or even with your wellie! By doing this one minute task, it will help minimise road flooding. Thank you.

 

As always, if you have any issues on any Highways matters, please report it on the WCC website http://www.worcestershire.gov.uk/homepage/98/report_it

Also remember a photo of the Highways problem is as good as “a thousand words” so always take a photo where possible.

 

Honeybourne Railway Station Car Park

On 18th September I had a meeting with 4 people from Network Rail and the Deputy MD of Wychavon District Council Honeybourne Railway Station. It was agreed that Network Rail would explore a lower cost solution to connect the new car park with the platform. I have now received their latest quote of £2.5million for a bridge . This is crazy. I and the WDC is pushing for a pedestrian level crossing from the car to the platform which should cost substantially less, and asking for another meeting with Network Rail.

 

County Council Divisional Fund

 

LAST CHANCE TO APPLY – Applications for the 2024/25 Divisional Fund are invited from local community organisations that are manned by volunteers and require a little help to buy equipment or services. To apply, please contact me on adams.pebworth@gmail.com.

 

The following grants have been requested, and some have already been approved ;-

  1. Pebworth School – Grant for some more books
  2. Honeybourne Hawks Football Club – new line marker
  3. Offenham Rovers FC – Grant for new nets
  4. Honeybourne Village Hall – grant requested for some new tables
  5. Offenham Village Hall – Sound-proofing panels
  6. Pebworth Village Hall – grant for new signage/flags
  7. Littletons Tennis Club – grant towards the Pickleball Courts
  8. Honeybourne News – grant for trolleys to deliver village newsletter to all houses
  9. Honeybourne School – grant for help to use of the village hall for their Christmas play
  10. Littletons Tennis Club – grant for Pickleball bats and paint for new courts
  11. Cleeve Prior Heritage Trust – grant for some more volunteers’ tools
  12. Cleeve Prior Memorial Hall – grant for a new projector screen
  13. St Peter’s Church – grant towards the replacement of a notice board

 

 

 

 

POLICE NOTICE

 

 

See below

 

 

 

Your County Councillor, Alastair Adams can be contacted on adams.pebworth@gmail.com  or mobile 07725 979 277 or www.alastairadams.org

 

 

APPENDIX C – VAS DATA

 

 

 

 

 

 

Documents

Committees