2025 Minutes

No.

Action

1.

Apologies for Absence

The meeting was advised that apologies had been received from Cllr J Levesley. It was Resolved: That apologies with valid reasons for absence had been accepted from Cllr J Levesley

2.

Declarations of Interest  - None

3.

To approve the minutes of the last F&G meeting

It was proposed by Cllr Davis and seconded by Cllr Elphee that the minutes of the previous meeting dated 18 November 2024 be accepted as a true record. This was agreed by all.

4.

Matters arising/progress

The Chairman advised that,

The contractor had confirmed his insurance was in place to complete the repairs to the implement shed roof, the Clerk will check progress.

TC/GJH

5.

Allotments

It was reported that some allotment holders have not received invoices for the rent that was due on 1 April 2024. This is to be investigated.

Investigation for electricity to be moved to the inside of the Allotment Shed. National Grid to be contacted by the Clerk.

Members discussed promoting the vacant plots and agreed that a welcome letter be sent to new residents in the town (source: the electoral role), also promoting allotment availability. Existing leaflet to be promoted in retailers – need to contact printer for additional print run.

Allotment inspections – to allow improved enforcement of the allotment regulations the Clerk will undertake quarterly inspections accompanied by Cllrs Davis and Elphee. This will also help improve pest control which remains an issue.

Polytunnels – members agreed that standard size be 3x2x2 metres, one per plot -

This was proposed by Cllr Boot and seconded by Cllr Davis and agreed by all.

TK/GJH

GJH

GJH

GJH

6.

Trees & Hedges

The Reform Street hedge has been cut back by the original contactor for a second time – there remains some concern about height and the Clerk will review the original instruction and establish a way forward.

Cemetery Hedge – our men are planting up the second batch and placing guards to both the first and second batch, there has been some loss due to animal damage.

GJH

7.

Pond maintenance

The Chairman advised that he had cleared the pond as previously discussed.

Workers are to continue the maintenance while also doing filter inspections – this needs to be confirmed in writing and records maintained in the parish office

There remains some concerns about the legal agreement around wording about water levels and definition of the term amenity pond.

GJH

GJH

8.

Machinery replacement

The Chairman reported that he had a report to update members in Closed Session.

9.

Any other matters to be included on a future agenda

None

10

Allotments

The Chairman reported that,

Allotment K – aware that there was poor husbandry with deceased livestock and neglect for which a letter needs to be dispatched.

Allotment T – evidence of rodents apparent with poor control processes and again the Clerk will write.

GJH

GJH

11

Machinery Replacement

The Chairman provided three quotes two from Chandlers and a third quote from Irelands Farm Machinery Ltd, which were all discussed, to replace the Kabota the price would be circa £28,000+ VAT. We have an opportunity to attend a demonstration of each vehicle. Further discussions are required.

Also under our insurance can our groundsmen use electric pruning poles/saws without the need for training certification.

JB/GJH

TC

12

Somerley Estate

The Chairman confirmed that survey work had taken place at Cloot Drove which we sublet. The Council needs to be aware of what our legal position is going forward. Our tenancy agreement is historic and we may need a legal opinion of our position as the situation develops.