MINUTES OF THE LOWER WINTERBORNE PARISH COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY 19th NOVEMBER 2024, COMMENCING 7PM, AT WINTERBORNE KINGSTON VILLAGE HALL
Present: Cllrs R Allcock, H Andrews, S Hart, L Luxford, M Meaden, K Langdown and D Knapp
Chair: Cllr R Jessopp
Clerk: Mrs Alison Clothier
Also present: 4 members of public, Dorset Cllr Emma Parker
Public Participation
• A comment was made regarding the provision of defibrillators in the Parish. It was suggested that there could be improved advertising of locations to enhance public awareness. Additionally, a request was made to consider installing more defibrillators in the Parish, with the Hub identified as a potential new location.
Action: Cllr Jessopp to post location of the defibrillator on social media.
Action: Clerk to investigate funding for new defibrillators.
1 Declaration of Interest and requests for dispensations
24.198 No interests were declared, and no dispensations had been requested.
2 Apologies
24.199 There were none.
3 Minutes of the Meetings held on 15th October 2024
24.200 A copy of the minutes had been issued to all members prior to the start of the meeting. Cllr Knapp proposed them to be a true and accurate representation of the meeting. This was seconded by Cllr Langdown and agreed unanimously. The Chair signed the minutes in the presence of the meeting.
5 Matters arising from those minutes for report only
24.201 The Clerk’s Report was circulated in advance of the meeting. There were no questions.
6 Dorset Councillors’ Reports
24.202 Nothing to report
7. Finance
24.203 To confirm payment of accounts
The following payments had been requested:
.
It was noted that the McAfee payment that had been coming out of the previous Clerks account was now cancelled.
Cllr Meaden proposed the payments are made. This was seconded by Cllr Hart and agreed unanimously.
24. 204To confirm the reconciliation of accounts, income and position against budget
A copy the reports had been issued to members prior to the start of the meeting. No comments were made, or queries raised.
It was noted that the Barclays account is likely to change to a different type of account which may have an associated charge. More details will be established and circulated.
24.205 To note the national Local Government pay increase.
The National Pay Award for Clerks has given a £0.62p an hour increase, back dated to 1st April 2024. This was duly noted.
24.206 To discuss an internal auditor appointment
It was resolved that Paula Harding of Barker Fox be appointed as the Internal Auditor for Lower Winterborne Parish Council for the financial year 2024/25. This auditor meets the requirements of independence and competence as outlined in the governance framework. This was proposed by Cllr Luxford and seconded by Cllr Meaden with all in agreement.
24.207 To discuss any budget proposals for 2025/26
It was suggested that new defibrillators and the playground refurbishment be considered in the budget setting meeting.
8. To receive the following reports
24.208 Speed Watch – The group will be finishing for the year in early December and starting again in January.
24.209 Hub – it was noted that if the Hub is going to get busier then the pathway and lighting is needed.
• Appeal against non domestic rates bill – all information requested has been submitted.
• To discuss footpath at the Recreation Ground – Three companies have been met on-site; however, no quotes have been received to date. Quotes should include the option of installing lighting along the path. The proposed path will run from the steps, alongside the wall, and out to the car park. The specification includes a 1.2m wide path with Type 1 stone underneath and concrete edging.
Action: Cllr Allcock to send out the detailed specification to Hub Committee
• To discuss progress on signs to Hub – the initial assessment has been paid for and awaiting quote
• To discuss options for the Electricity billing arrangements – the options for electricity billing were discussed and it was proposed to switch to a variable rate. This was proposed by Cllr Luxford and seconded by Cllr Andrew with all in agreement.
24.210 Flood Watch – It was reported that levels in both boreholes have been declining. The flood wardens are monitoring the river level at the footpath. There are 300 empty sandbags at the sand store with 100 more filled bags being delivered.
24.211 Play Area and Recreation Ground – There is a mole problem on the Recreation Ground which is being actioned.
9. Planning Applications
24.212 P/FUL/2024/05766 Paddock View Marsh Lane Anderson DT11 9HB
Erect detached agricultural storage barn.
The Parish Council supported the application.
10 Items for Action and Resolution
24.213 To consider progress on the Neighbourhood Plan
Progress on the Neighbourhood Plan is going well, with ongoing meetings involving landowners, and discussions with highways representatives. Two technical studies have been awarded on Environmental Assessments and Design. A further update is expected after Christmas.
24.214 To discuss the installation of horse riding signs and child crossing sign
A quote of £1,606 has been received for the package of signs, with proposed locations circulated prior to the meeting. It was suggested to relocate one child crossing sign to the village gates to utilise an existing pole, thereby potentially saving costs on a new one.
It was proposed to accept the quote with this amendment, subject to confirmation of any additional charges before the work commences. Proposed by Cllr Knapp and Seconded by Cllr Luxford with all in agreement.
24.215 To receive an update on 20mph zone consultation
The consultation has closed – awaiting result.
24.216 To discuss proposals to relocate bus stop
The final locations of the bus stops have now been agreed as the end of hedge at the village hall and Church Walk corner.
Action: Cllr Jessopp to give plans for the bus shelter to the village hall committee.
24.217 To consider the Parish Council’s view on the DAPTC AGM motions
There were no comments.
24.218 To discuss the cleaning of a Commonwealth War Grave in St Nicholas Churchyard
A quote of £95 has been received for the proposed work. It was suggested to contact the Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) to inquire whether they would undertake the work.
It was agreed that if the CWGC does not carry out the work, the quoted work will proceed at a cost of £95.
11. Parish Councillors’ reports not covered by item 8
24.219 Cllr Andrews –
• Hedges on West Street: The hedges are obstructing visibility of the 30mph speed limit signs. Additionally, the hedge by the Old Post Office on Bere Road needs attention.
• Path Maintenance: The path opposite the Greyhound is in good condition.
• Replacement Dog Bin: Discussion held regarding the placement of the replacement dog bin. Final location to be determined.
• Garlands Around War Memorial: Concerns were raised about the appropriateness of placing garlands around the War Memorial, noting it could upset ex-service members.Action: Clerk to clarify what the guidance is for garlands on the
war memorial from British Legion.
12. Correspondence receive since the agenda was set
24.220 Pre School Consultation – Dunbury Academy is planning to establish a Pre-School on the school site, with a proposed start date of September 2025. The Parish Council expressed support for the initiative.
It was queried whether children might transition to the Whitechurch site earlier as part of these plans.
Action: Clerk to write on behalf of the Parish council in support of the Pre-School
24.221 Trees – a query was received on works to the trees at the rear of Broad Close. The resident was informed that they would need to apply for permission and arrange for the works themselves.
13. Items for the January agenda
• Precept
There being no further business, the meeting closed at 19.47