8 replies to this topic

[Administrator]

Parish Council Meetings will take place at 7:30 pm on the following dates:

• 9 January
• 6 March
• 1 May
• 3 July
• 3 September
• 4 November

Agendas and minutes will be added as they become available.

[Administrator]

BRADFORD PEVERELL PARISH COUNCIL
Meeting to be held in the Village Hall
Thursday 9^th January 2025
Starting at 7.30 p.m.
AGENDA

1. Introduction by the Chairman Chairman

 

2. Introduction of new Clerk – Edwin Macknamara Chairman

 

3. Apologies for Absence Clerk

 

4. Open Session Chairman

 

5. Minutes of the meeting of 5th November 2024 Chairman

 

6. Matters arising from Nov. minutes, not on this agenda Chairman

 

7. Election of a Chairman Chairman

 

8. Documents and Policies Cllr Bishop

 

9. Representative reports:

Planning Cllr Meaden
Amenity Fields Colin Chapman
Village Maintenance Cllr Howard
Village Hall Cllr Morgan
Muckleford Cllr Bishop
River/Flood Warden Colin Hawkins

 

10. Correspondence Clerk

11. Grass cutting Chairman

12. Finance Clerk

 

Payments made since last meeting
Payments to be made
Clerk’s Expenses as per calculations herewith £
Money Received since last meeting

Reconciled Bank Balances as at 30^th December 2024
Treasurer’s account £
Business savings account £
(Financial spreadsheets including bank reconciliations have been circulated to councillors)

 

Update on banking arrangement

 

13. Budgets

Setting the Budget

Precept for 2024/2025

 

14. Future Meetings Chairman

To start at 7:30 p.m.

March 6^th, May 1^st, July 3^rd, September 4^th, November 6th
 

15. Any other business Chairman

 

16. Next meeting

as per item 14 above – March 6^th Chairman

Attached Files

•  bppc-agenda-2025-01-07_BPPC - Agendas 6 - PC Meeting - 7th January 2025.pdf   46.25KB
  

[Administrator]

The minutes for the meeting held on 9 January are available below.

BRADFORD PEVERELL PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of a Meeting of Bradford Peverell Parish Council
held in the Village Hall on Thursday 9th January, 2025
commencing at 7:30pm

MINUTES

In attendance:

Bradford Peverell Parish Councillors

Gloria Towner – Vice Chair (GT)
Neil Howard (NH)
Paul Meaden (PM)
Terry Bishop (TB)
Brenda Edwards (BE)
Edwin Macknamara – Clerk to the Council

BPPC Representatives
Colin Chapman (CCh)

 

Apologies for absence:

Jon Desborough
Steve Morgan
David Taylor (Dorset Council)

 

1. The Vice-Chairman welcomed all those present and wished everyone a happy new year. She also introduced Mr. Edwin Macknamara who had been appointed as Clerk to the Council with effect from the 1st January, 2023
 

2. PUBLIC SESSION: No matters were raised by Members of the Public.

3. MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON THE 5th NOVEMBER, 2024

The minutes of the meeting held on the 5th September 2024 had been circulated to all members prior to the meeting.

RESOLVED: That the minutes be approved as a true and accurate record of the meeting and signed by the Chair.

4. MATTERS ARISING:
Councillor Bishop reported that work ton the Risk Register was almost complete and would be circulated at the next meeting to allow the newly appointed Clerk to be consulted prior to adoption by the Council.

5. ELECTION OF CHAIR: No nominations were forthcoming and this item was deferred until the next meeting.

6. DOCUMENTS AND POLICIES: Councillor Bishop reported that the proposed Standing Orders and Financial Regulations (based on the Models provided by NALC) had been circulated with the agenda. The Internal Auditor and Clerk had also been consulted. It was proposed and seconded that these documents be now adopted by the Council. It was also noted that work continued on finalising additional documents which would be circulated for adoption at the next meeting.

RESOLVED: That the Standing Orders and Financial Regulations circulated with the Agenda and attached hereto as Appendix A Standing Orders and Appendix B Financial Regulations be approved and adopted by the Council with immediate effect.

7. REPRESENTATIVES REPORTS:

a: Planning (Cllr. Meaden)

There was nothing further to report however potential further development at Poundbury which may affect Roman Road would continue to be monitored.

The proposed senior living development did not appear to be going ahead at present.

b: Amenity Fields (Mr. C. Chapman)

The amenity fields looked much tidier now that they had been mowed. The Council should, at a future meeting, consider erecting signs at both fields and also consider whether the Millennium Field should be available to hire for appropriate events, The Jubilee Field was already available for hire.
Councillor Bishop suggested that a second goal should be provided at the Jubilee Field and he offered to report to the next meeting on the likely costs.
The meeting discussed options to improve safety at the Jubilee Field and Colin Chapman was present at the meeting to outline the options particularly to the exposed pipe work and brackets. 3 options were put forward including a protective coat for the posts, top up the surrounding soil or top up with soil/chippings. A further report would be submitted for consideration at the next meeting. It was also noted that the brambles and weeds had now been treated but the litter bin was not regularly emptied and could possibly be moved to an area were emptying could be carried out. It was agreed that as the bin was portable it could be moved to the entrance.

The fencing along the road had also been replaced and a good job had been done. Any replacement could be considered later in 2025/6. A sign at the entrance with details of emergency contacts etc. was being investigated.

The wooden equipment had been treated to remove the lichen including the benches.

c: Village Maintenance (Cllr. Howard)

Some potholes had been filled. The pothole near the Old School remained a concern and had again been reported to Dorset Council for action.

Cllr. Neil Howard was checking the grit bins to ensure that they had been filled throughout the Parish.

d: Village Hall (Cllr. Morgan)

A short update had been circulated prior to the meeting setting out the events recently held at the Village Hall. Some improvements to the Hall had been completed which included a new PA System funded by the Hall and Church. Members felt that whose asset the new PA System would be should be clarified. It was also noted that the pipework to the heating tank had been repaired.

e: Muckleford (Cllr. Bishop) Nothing to report.

f: River/Flood Warden (Colin Hawkins) Despite heavy rainfall there were no incidents to report.

8. CORRESPONDENCE: The Clerk had no correspondence to report. Correspondence had been received from Mr. and Mrs. Goodrum concerning the trees near Frome View.

Cllr. Towner reported that she had contacted the Land Registry to attempt to establish ownership of the area of the Frome View trees. A reply was awaited.

9. GRASS CUTTING: Dorset Council had confirmed the costs for addition fortnightly cuts at £150 for each cut. It was moved and seconded that additional cuts be requested and it was:

RESOLVED: That the costs of additional grass cutting at £150 per cut be agreed and additional cuts ordered.

RESOLVED: That one extra cut of the two fields be requested in February, 2025 at a cost £150.

10. FINANCE: The Clerk reported that he was arranging for the Bank Mandate to be changed and for Bank Statements to be sent directly to the new Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer. He would then be able to submit financial reports to future meetings.

In view of the proposal to consider new banking arrangements it was agreed that a report should be made to the next meeting on appropriate alternative banking arrangements.

11. BUDGET/PRECEPT

The report of the meeting with the Internal Auditor held on the 20th November, 2024 together with the proposed Draft Budget 2025/26 had been circulated prior to the meeting. The Clerk reported that Dorset Council required the Precept Request to be submitted to them by the 31st January, 2025 and details of the tax base had also been received.

The proposed Budget recommended that the Precept for 2025/26 be set at £9617 an increase of 1.99%. The Clerk further reported that the tax base had increased which would minimise the increase paid by residents. He would circulate these details in due course. The figures provided by the Internal Auditor also showed that the proposed Precept would balance with the Budget for 2025/26 and the Clerk would provide further information when he had taken further advice from the Internal Auditor.

It was then moved and seconded that the Parish Council set the Precept for 2025/26 at £9617 and that the Clerk/RFO submit the Precept Request to Dorset Council.

RESOLVED: That the Clerk/RFO be authorised to submit the Precept Request to Dorset Council of £9617 for the financial year 2025/26.

12. FUTURE MEETINGS

Dates for future meetings were agreed as follows:
6th March, 2025
1st May, 2025
3rd July, 2025
To be held at Bradford Peverell Village Hall commencing at 7.30pm

13. ANY OTHER BUSINESS (FOR INFORMATION ONLY)

EMAILS: The Clerk was asked to ensure that all documents circulated to Members in A4 format should be in an acceptable printable format.

Millenium Field: Should additional goal posts be provided it was suggested that the Council consider a formal opening.

Printer: The Clerk was asked to provide costings for the purchase of a new printer capable of printing A3 (single sheets) and the costs of printing ink.

The Chalk Stream Magazine: The Clerk would ask the Editor for the dates when submissions were required and that the Council Minutes be also provided to the Editor.

Glebe House Wall: Dorset Council had contacted the owner regarding the condition of the wall and that the bricks should be re-used. The wall formed part of the Grade 2 Listed Building.

Telephone Box: Jill and Paul Nichols looked after the telephone box.

The Meeting concluded at 8.40pm

Signed as a true Record …………………………………………………………………….

Date 6th March, 2025

Attached Files

•  bppc-minutes-2025-01-09_BPPC - Minutes 4 - BPPC 9th January, 2025.pdf   130.15KB
  

[Administrator]

The agenda for the meeting to be held on 6 March is available below.

 

BRADFORD PEVERELL PARISH COUNCIL
A Meeting of Peverell Parish Council will be held at
Bradford Peverell Village Hall on Thursday, 6th March, 2025
commencing at 7.30pm

AGENDA

1. Introduction and welcome to the meeting. Chair

2. Apologies for absence. Clerk

3. Election of Chair. Clerk

4. Public Participation Period : The Chairman will invite members of the public to air any concerns or raise matters of public interest relating to the Parish.

5. Minutes of the Meeting held on the 9th January, 2025. Clerk

6. Matters arising from the Minutes not included on the Agenda: Clerk

• Jubilee and Millenium Fields – Erection of Signs
• Quotes – Hedge Cutting Millenium Field
• Yew Tree Lane and Frome View Trees/ Pothole Old School

7. Documents and Policies: Cllr. Bishop will report on the Documents previously circulated with the Agenda.

8. Representatives Reports:

• Planning: Cllr. Meaden
• Amenity Fields: Colin Chapman
• Village Maintenance: Cllr. Howard
• Village Hall: Cllr. Morgan
• Muckleford: Cllr. Bishop
• River/Flood Warden: Cllr. Hawkins

9. Correspondence Received by The Clerk.

• Grant Request – Chalk Stream Car Drivers Service
• CPRE – Membership Renewal
• Request for information regarding former Chairs of the Council.
• DAPTC – Area Committee Meetings/Representation.

10. Bins in the Village – Provision and emptying. Chair

 

11. Grass Cutting Chair

12. Finance Clerk

Payments made since the last meeting:

• Microsoft 365 (Refunded to Clerk) £84.99
• Barker Fox Associates (Budgeting and Advice) £157.08
• Payments to be made:
• Clerk’s Salary (01/01/2025 to 31/03/2025 £800.96
• Clerk’s Expenses: Postage/Stationary £10.35
• HMRC £200.20
• Money received since the last meeting £0.00
• Bank Reconciliations: Treasurers Account £
• Business Savings Account
• To report on alternative Banking Providers

13. Village Hall Constitution – Review Clerk

14. Future Meetings: 1st May; 3rd July; 3rd September; 4th November 2025

15. Any Other Business (For Information Only). Chair


 

Attached Files

•  bppc-minutes-2025-01-09_BPPC - Minutes 4 - BPPC 9th January, 2025.pdf   130.15KB
  

[Administrator]

The minutes of the meeting held on 6 March are available below.

 

BRADFORD PEVERELL PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of a Meeting of Bradford Peverell Parish Council
held in the Village Hall on Thursday 6th March, 2025
commencing at 7:30pm

MINUTES

In attendance:

Bradford Peverell Parish Councillors:

Gloria Towner – Vice Chair (GT)
Neil Howard (NH)
Paul Meaden (PM)
Terry Bishop (TB)
Brenda Edwards (BE)
Jon Desborough (JD)
Dorset Councillor David Taylor (Dorset Council) (DT)
Edwin Macknamara – Clerk to the Council
BPPC Representatives
Colin Chapman (CCh)
2 Members of the Public

 

Apologies for absence:

Steve Morgan

 

[1] The Vice-Chairman welcomed all those present.

[2] PUBLIC SESSION:

 

School Bus Routes: A Member of the Public outlined his recent experience with the driver of one of the school buses in Bradford Peverell whilst exercising his horses one morning. The driver of the bus refused to stop to allow him and the horses to pass and he felt his behaviour was aggressive and threatening. He also felt that the route the bus was taking was inappropriate and caused damage to the roadside verges as well as added danger to pedestrians and other vehicles within the Parish. Cllr. Taylor (DT) agreed to take up this issue with Dorset Council as the Education Authority responsible for providing school transport.

[3] ELECTION OF CHAIR:

 

No nominations were forthcoming and Cllr. Towner took the Chair for the meeting.

[4] MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD ON THE 9th January, 2025

 

The minutes of the meeting held on the 9th January 2025 had been circulated to all members prior to the meeting.

It was moved and seconded that the minutes be approved subject to the following amendments:

 

Para 7b – "The fencing along the road had also been repaired by the addition of two posts"
Para 7d – "It was also noted that the pipework from the oil storage tank to the boiler needed to be replaced.

 

RESOLVED: That the minutes,( as amended) be approved as a true and accurate record of the meeting and signed by the Chair.

 

[5] MATTERS ARISING:

[a] Jubilee and Millenium Fields: The provision of signs for the Amenity Fields was deferred until the next meeting so that further consideration could be given to the wording needed and examples used in other locations obtained.

[b] Quotes – Hedge Cutting Jubilee Field: Deferred until a future meeting for the work to be done once the bird nesting season was ended.

 

[c] Yew Tree Lane and Frome View Tree/Pothole Old School – The Clerk reported that the matters had been discussed with Dorset Council who had contacted the owners of the areas were tree work was needed. The issues were ongoing and would be followed up by the Clerk. Dorset Council had also contacted BT regarding the pothole and although some repairs had been done they had been requested to re-route their telephone cables. A response was awaited from BT.

 

[6] DOCUMENTS AND POLICIES:

 

Councillor Bishop reported that work to the Documents and Policies continued and the following documents had been circulated with the agenda for this meeting:

Assessment of Personal Data; The Business Continuity Plan; Complaints Policy and Procedures; Equality Policy; Expenses Policy; General Data Protection Policy and Vexatious Complaints and Residents Policy. Any outstanding Documents would be circulated to a future meeting.

 

It was moved and seconded that the Documents and Policies circulated with the Agenda for this meeting be now adopted and that arrangements be put in hand to review all documents with those that remain outstanding at the next meeting. On being put to the vote the motion was unanimously adopted.

 

RESOLVED: That the Documents and Policies circulated with the agenda for this meeting be now adopted and that arrangements be put in hand to review all documents with those that remain outstanding at the next meeting.

[7] REPRESENTATIVES REPORTS:

[a] Planning (Cllr. Meaden) There was nothing further to report.

[b] Amenity Fields (Mr. C. Chapman) A copy of the Playing Fields Inspection Report was circulated at the meeting and an update provided on the outstanding work to be completed. In particular CCH reported that raising the ground below the 2 bay cradle was in abeyance and he felt that any further work on the levels should wait until after the next inspection report was received. The Bin had been re-sited at the entrance to the Jubilee Field for emptying but had again been relocated within the field by an unknown person. It was noted that the renewal of the Council’s Insurance would be discussed at the next meeting when the question of ongoing reporting could be reviewed. The Clerk would include an item on the agenda. The Gate Posts to the Millenium Field needed to be replaced but it was also agreed that consideration should be given to widening the gate for better access for machinery etc. The meeting recorded their appreciation of the work undertaken by Mr. Chapman on these matters.

[c] Village Maintenance (Cllr Howard) The road surface in Church Lane was uneven and had been reported to Dorset Council. Further contact would be made with the Council on this matter. The Grit bins had been inspected and one required filling which should be done shortly. The Grit Bin at Muckleford also needed filling and Dorset Council would be asked to do this as soon as possible.

[d] Village Hall (Cllr. Morgan) Cllr. Morgan had submitted a report explaining that the Village Hall circulated a flyer in the Parish advertising forthcoming events and met the costs themselves. Cllr. Taylor suggested that the Community Funding Officer at Dorset Council should be approached regarding funding for this type of activity as well as any other eligible activity within the Parish. (Cllr. Bishop declared a non-pecuniary interest in this matter and took no part in the discussion)

[e] Muckleford (Cllr. Bishop) Cllr. Bishop reported that the clearance of the slurry tank was making the road dangerous. Although the farmer used a scrapper to clear the road this was causing the road to break up. This should be report to Dorset Council Highways and Environmental Department who would inspect the area and take any necessary action. Cllr. Bishop declared a non pecuniary interest in this item. Cllr. Taylor asked to be kept informed.

[f] River/Flood Warden (Colin Hawkins) The issue of the Cycle Path along the A37 was raised which was often affected by flooding and weeds. The grid crossing had never been completed and the cycle route was often affected by standing water. An update along the A37 was needed. Cllr. Taylor suggested that Dorset Council be asked to provide an update on this matter as work was being undertaken along the whole route of this particular cycle track. The problems of flooding along Church Lane was also raised and a drain needed to be cleared. Gravel was also flowing down the land from the land above. Contact would be made with Dorset Council Highways.

 

[8] CORRESPONDENCE:

 

GRANT REQUEST: The Chalk Stream Drivers Service had requested a Grant from the Council. The Clerk was asked to report to the next meeting on this issue and information regarding previous grants made.

CPRE: The Council’s membership of CPRE had lapsed. It was agreed that the subscription be renewed.

 

REQUEST FOR INFOMTATION REGARDING FORMER CHAIRS: The Clerk had been asked to provide information regarding former Chairs of the Council by the Twinning Association locally. The Clerk was asked to provide further information regarding this request for th next meeting.

 

DAPTC REPRESENTATIVE: The Council had been invited to send a representative to the Central Area Committee of DAPTC. No action was proposed at this time.

 

BINS IN THE VILLAGE: The provision and emptying of Bins in the Village was deferred until the next meeting.

 

[9] GRASS CUTTING:

 

Nothing further to report.

[10] FINANCE:

 

The following payments had been made since the last Meeting:

Microsoft 365 (Refunded to Clerk): £84.99
Barker Fox Associates (Budgeting And advice) £157.08

 

Payments to be made:

Edwin Macknamara (Clerk’s Salary 1st January to 31st March 2025) £800.96
HMRC (PAYE) £200.20
Edwin Macknamara (Expenses) £10.35

 

RECEIPTS Since the Last Meeting None

 

BANK RECONCILIATION (Report Circulated Prior to the Meeting):

Treasurers Account Balance: £15021.31
Business Account Balance £5171.28
Community Account Balance £13945.54 (January 2025)

 

REVIEW OF BANKING ARRANGEMENTS: Deferred until the next meeting.

 

INTERNAL AUDIT: The meeting agreed to appoint Ms. Paula Harding, Barker Fox Associates to undertake the Audit of the Council’s Accounts for the financial year ending 31st March,2025. The Audit fee of £125.00

[11] VILLAGE HALL CONSTITUTION REVIEW:

 

The meeting had been advised that the Village Hall Trustees wished to revise their Constitution and had asked the Parish Council to sign the Document which had been circulated prior to the meeting. The Clerk advised that he had obtained some advice from NALC and other sources which suggested that the approval of the Parish Council as owners of the Village Hall was not required but that the Charity Commission would need to approve any amendments they proposed.

 

The original Deed of Conveyance of the Village Hall to the Parish Council was dated 29th November, 1972 and also set out the terms upon which the Village Hall should be administered. It maybe that, for the mutual benefit of the Parish Council and the Village Hall Trustees a meeting should be arranged to update the the terms contained within the 1972 Deed. The meeting also briefly discussed the recovery of VAT on expenditure incurred by both parties. The Council’s Auditor would be consulted further on this topic. The meeting shared the view that both parties should approach this issue so that a mutually acceptable agreement could be reached going forward. A representative of the Village Hall Trustees was present at the meeting and both parties would discuss this issue further as matters were updated and clarified.

[12] FUTURE MEETINGS

Dates for future meetings were agreed as follows:

1st May, 2025 The ANNUAL PARISH MEETING would be held prior to the Parish Council meeting on the 1st May, 2023.
3rd July, 2025

 

To be held at Bradford Peverell Village Hall commencing at 7.30pm

[13] ANY OTHER BUSINESS (FOR INFORMATION ONLY)

• Bradford Peverell Village Defibrillator: Sessions on the use of the Defibrillator had been arranged for the 9th April, 2025 in the Village Hall
   
• Giles Cross Signpost: A resident had requested the Parish Council to discuss the restoration of this sign post. Deferred for discussion at the next meeting.
   
• Millenium Field: The Clerk reported that a local resident had raised some questions about the ingoing use of the Millenium Field. The resident would be invited to the next meeting to discuss this matter.
   
• Village Bus Shelter: A resident had commented on the poor condition of the Bus Shelter in the Village. The resident would be informed that this matter would be discussed at the next meeting which would include discussion on organising a Tidy the Village Event including the Bus Shelter.

The Meeting concluded at 9.16pm
 

Attached Files

•  bppc-minutes-2025-03-06_BPPC - Minutes 4 - BPPC 6th March, 2025.pdf   168.68KB
  

[Administrator]

The agenda for the Annual Parish Meeting to be held on 1 May is available below

 

BRADFORD PEVERELL ANNUAL PARISH MEETING

To be held in the Village Hall on Thursday May 1st, 2025
Starting at 7.30pm

 

AGENDA

1 Apologies
2 Introduction by Parish Council Vice-Chairman,
3 Formal acceptance of the minutes from last year’s Annual Parish Meeting
4 Matters for consideration
5 Report by Bradford Peverell Parish Council
6 Reports by Bradford Peverell community groups
7 Any other matters
8 Date of next meeting

Attached Files

•  bppc-agenda-2025-05-01-a_BPPC - Agendas 1a - Parish Annual Meeting - 1st May^J 2025.pdf   127.04KB
  

[Administrator]

The agenda for the meeting to be held on 1 May is available below

 

BRADFORD PEVERELL PARISH COUNCIL

A Meeting of Peverell Parish Council will be held at Bradford Peverell Village Hall on Thursday, 1st May, 2025

Commencing immediately after the Annual Parish Meeting

AGENDA

1. Introduction and welcome to the meeting. Chair
2. Apologies for absence. Clerk
3. Election of Chair. Clerk
4. Election of Vice Chair Clerk
5. Public Participation Period :

The Chair will invite members of the public to air any concerns or raise matters of public interest relating to the Parish.

6. Minutes of the Meeting held on the 6th March, 2025. Clerk
7. Matters arising from the Minutes not included on the Agenda: Clerk

• Jubilee and Millenium Fields – Erection of Signs
• Bus Shelter - Update
• A37 Cycle Track
• Giles Cross Sign Post - Restoration
• Review of Documents and Policies (Update)

8. Representatives Reports:

• Planning: Cllr. Meaden
• Amenity Fields and Play Area Inspections: Colin Chapman
• Village Maintenance: Cllr. Howard
• Village Hall: Cllr. Morgan
• Muckleford: Cllr. Bishop
• River/Flood Warden: Cllr. Hawkins

9. Correspondence Received by The Clerk.

• Grant Request – Chalk Stream Car Drivers Service
• Proposal to hold a Dog Show on the Village Green/Jubilee Field.

10. Bins in the Village – Provision and emptying. Chair
11. Railway Bridge Fly tipping and Road Naming: Chair
12. Finance: Clerk

• i) Payments made since the last meeting:
  • Dorset Council -Grounds Maintenance SLA £409.98
• ii) Payments to be made:
  • Clerk’s Salary (01/04/2025 to 30/04/2025 £ 280.96
  • Clerk’s Expenses: Postage/Stationery £ 10.00
  • HMRC £ 57.11
• iii) Money received since the last meeting £0.00
• iv) To report on alternative Banking Providers
• v) End of Year Accounts 2024/25 Bank Balances
  • Audit Arrangements and AGAR
• vi) Review of the Asset Register
• vii) Council Insurance Renewal

13. Website
14. To report the Clerk’s resignation.
15. Village Hall Constitution – Review Grant Support : Clerk
16. Future Meetings: 3rd July; 3rd September; 4th November 2025
17. Any Other Business (For Information Only). Chair

 

Attached Files

•  bppc-agenda-2025-05-01_AGENDA 1st MAY 2025 pdf.pdf   44.62KB
  

[Administrator]

The minutes of the meeting held on 1 May are available below.

 

BRADFORD PEVERELL PARISH COUNCIL
Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Bradford Parish Council
held on Thursday, 1st May, 2025
at The Village Hall

commencing at 7.45

 

In attendance:
Parish Councillors
Gloria Towner – Vice Chair (GT)
Terry Bishop (TB)
Neil Howard (NH)
Pauk Meaden) (PM)
Steve Morgan (SM)
Edwin Macknamara – Clerk to the Council
2 Members of the Public

Apologies for absence:
Parish Councillors: Brenda Edwards and Jon Desborough
Dorset Councillor David Taylor.
BPPC Representative: Colin Chapman

1. Introduction and welcome to the meeting was made by the Vice Chair (GT)

2. Election of Chair: No nominations were forthcoming.

3. Election of Vice Chair: It was moved and seconded that Cllr. Gloria Town be appointed as Vice Chair. On being put to the vote it was unanimously Agreed.

Cll. Towner was in the Chair for the remainder of the meeting.

4. Public Participation Period:

The Clerk had circulated the response from Dorset Council regarding the matters raised at the last meting concerning the School Bus Service in the Village. The resident again expressed his concerns about the route taken and the attitude of some of the drivers. He pointed out that the Roman Road carried a weight limit and he was concerned that the buses used exceeded the limit allowed.

However, the resident was advised that this issue was a matter for Dorset Council and if the resident wasn’t happy with the response it should be pursued with Dorset Councillor David Taylor or the Officer concerned.

5. Minutes of the meeting held on the 6th, March, 2025

The Minutes of the meeting held on the 6th,March, 2025 had been circulated to all members prior to the meeting.
RESOLVED: That the minutes of the meeting of the Parish Council held on the 6th March, 2025 be approved and signed by the Vice Char as a true and accurate record.

6. Matters Arising from the Minutes Not included on the Agenda

• CPRE Membership: The Clerk reported that the annual cost of membership of CPRE amounted to £60. RESOLVED: That the Council do not take up membership of CPRE during the current financial year.
   
• Jubilee and Millenium Fields: The provision of site signs was again discussed and it was agreed that draft signs would be prepared and quotations obtained for consideration at the next meeting in July. Cllr Bishop agreed to provide details of what the signing should include and obtain quotes.
   
• Bus Shelter: The Vice Chair reported that 6 Residents had helped with the cleaning up of the Bus Shelter and along the Old Rectory Wall and a letter of thanks had been sent to this resident. It had also been suggested that the former telephone kiosk should be repainted.
   
• A37 Cycle track: The Clerk outlined the discussions with Dorset Council regarding the condition of the cycle track along the A37 and the crossover at the junction into Bradford Peverell. The Council had no plans to improve the cycle track due to financial restraints but had indicated that it may be possible to improve the crossover at the junction during the autumn. The Clerk also reported that he was in contact with a Dorset Councillor who was also pursuing this matter. Any further information would be circulated when received.
   
• Giles Cross Signpost: The Clerk reported that the request of a local resident to renovate this finger post had been deferred at the last meeting. Dorset Council no longer accepted responsibility for the finger posts and it was agreed that it would not be appropriate for the Parish Council to accept responsibility for this type of road side sign. The resident would be informed of the decision.
   
• Review of Documents and Policies: The Review of these documents were ongoing and were now mostly in place. A further report would be made at the next meeting.

7. Proposal to hold a Dog Show on the Jubilee Field:

The Council were informed by the Organisers of the proposed Dog Show of their proposals which they wished to hold on the Jubilee Field in June, 2025 (final date to be confirmed)

A total of 30 dogs would take part in the show and arrangements would be made to clear up the area following the event. The children’s play area would be protected and a Refreshment Bar and Barbecue provided. The Church had also been notified so that the arrangements would not conflict with their annual flower show. The Organisers were asked to provide further information regarding Insurance for the event and how the event would be funded. Details of the siting of marques etc. would also be provided. Subject to further details it was: RESOLVED: That the proposed Dog Show be supported.

8. Representatives Reports:

• Planning – Cllr Meaden: The meeting was informed of the recent planning applications received affecting the Parish and responses made. He also referred to the amended application at Boulevard North West Quadrant and the amendments proposed which he felt reflected the views made by the Parish Council regarding the materials to be used and the avenue of trees.

• Amenity Fields and Play Area Inspections: A report had been received from Mr. Colin Chapman who had sent his apologies as he was unable to attend the meeting. The priority was the to arrange the annual inspection of the play equipment normally carried out by Wicksteed. The recommendation was that future inspections be undertaken by a local Dorset Company. The monthly inspection reports and the format used were approved and Mr. Chapman would be informed.
  
  The report also raised the issue of grass cutting not being cleared but it was noted that Dorset Council had not included this in their quotation. This would be reviewed when the Contract was due for renewal.
  
  The Bins were now being emptied, and reinstatement of the goal posts remained to be completed.
  
  The areas were now being well used by residents.
  
  RESOLVED: That the Annual Inspection be carried out by the local Dorset Company and arranged as soon as possible subject to costs being confirmed.
  
  Cllr. Bishop advised the Council that the play equipment would soon need to be replaced and, therefore discussion should take place on the condition of this equipment and the cost of replacement when needed. It was agreed that this matter be included on the Agenda for the next meeting together with a forecast of the costs involved and timescale.
   

• Village Maintenance: Cllr Howard reported that Dorset Council had cut the central reservation at the A37 junction. Work to the layby near the railway bridge would be carried out on the 9th May by Dorset Council. The area adjacent to the Mill Stream had been cut back by local residents making the seat accessible.
  
  Village Hall: Cllr Morgan reported on the forthcoming functions being held in the Village Hall including a flower show, cream tea and their Annual General Meeting. The Village Hall Committee had also discussed the future relationship with the Parish Council who owned the freehold of the Village Hall and also the recent problems with the Oil tank
  
  Agenda Item 15 Village Hall Constitution and the request for a Grant was brought forward for discussion. The view that the Council should seek to appoint a Solicitor to deal with this matter was discussed and it was agreed that this would be included on the agenda for the next meeting. A request for grant support for the replacement of the oil tank had been included on the agenda for this meeting and it was reported that the total cost of replacing the tank amounted to £4332 (including VAT). A proposal was made that the Parish Council as owners of the freehold of the Village Hall should meet the full cost of replacing the oil tank. It was proposed and seconded that the Parish Council pay the full cost of £4332. The proposal was seconded.
  
  The Clerk suggested that advice be obtained on the recovery of the VAT if the Invoice for repairs was made to the Parish Council as owners of the Village Hall. A vote was then taken on the proposal made and was unanimously approved and it was, therefore RESOLVED: That the Parish Council pay the full costs of replacing the Oil Tank totalling £4332 (including VAT).
  
  Cllr. Morgan then advised that the ownership of the PA System lay with the Village Hall (80%) and the Church (20%) which was noted.
   

• Muckleford: Cllr. Bishop reported that the through road had been surface dressed by Dorset Council. The electricity supply cables were affected by the adjacent trees and the supply company had been asked to cut the trees back.
   

• River/Flood Warden: Cllr. Hawkins There were no matters to raise.

9. Correspondence received by the Clerk:

 

i) Grant Request received from the Chalk Stream Drivers Service: The Clerk confirmed that the Chalk Stream Drivers Service had previously received a Grant of £60. It was moved and seconded that a Grant of £60 be paid to the Chalk Stream Drivers Service for this financial year 2025/26 and it was: RESOLVED: That a grant of £60 be paid to the Chalk Stream Drivers Service for the financial year 2025/26.

 

10. Bins in the Village: The meeting noted that the Bins in the Village were now being regularly emptied. The bins were now being used for the purpose for which they had been provided.

11. Road Naming: The Chair reported that the road to the A37 from the Village was currently unnamed but used to be named Mill Street. She proposed that Dorset Council should be asked to rename this road. After discussion it was felt that “Mill Street” was not appropriate but as the road passed the site of the former Village School it should be renamed School Lane. On being put to the vote it was RESOLVED: That Dorset Council be asked to rename this road as School Lane.

12. FINANCE:

 

i) Payments Made Since the last Meeting:

Dorset Council – Grounds Maintenance SLA £4909.98

 

ii) Payments to be made:

Clerks Salary April, 2025 £228.12

Clerks Expenses Postage/Stationary £10
HMRC £57

 

iii) Receipts since the last Meeting: Precept from Dorset Council £4808.50

 

iv) Banking Arrangements: The Council had previously indicated that they wished to review their Banking arrangements, but no specific proposals had been made. The Clerk had obtained details from Unity Trust Bank who did not make Bank Charges to Parish Councils. Further suggestions were put forward and it was agreed that the Clerk should submit a report to the next meeting for consideration.

 

v) End of Year Accounts 2024/25: The Clerk circulated details of the end of year accounts which were received and the Bank Reconciliation noted.

 

vi) Audit Arrangements and AGAR: The Clerk circulated the AGAR for the financial year 2024/25. The Internal Audit would commence on the 12th May. The final AGAR would be subject to further discussion with the Internal Auditor as a correction to the balances brought forward (from 2024would be discussed. The Annual Return would then be submitted BDO LLP the external auditor together with a certificate of exemption. This would require the Clerk and Vice Chair to sign the Annual Report.

 

RESOLVED: That the report be received and the Vice Chair and Clerk/RFO be authorised to sign and submit the Annual and Accountability Return 2024/25 as finalised following the Internal Audit.

 

13. Review of the Asset Register: The Clerk had circulated a copy of the current Asset Register. No amendments were required.

RESOLVED: That the current Asset Register be approved without further amendment.

14. Council Insurance Renewal: The Clerk reported that the Council’s Insurance was due to renewal which was subject to a long term arrangement.

15. Website: The Clerk had been asked to update the current website by a Parishioner. It was agreed that the existing website provider be asked to carry out the update so that the information was accurate and up to date. Cllr Morgan and Bishop agreed to make the initial approach and report to the next meeting.

16. RESIGNATION OF THE CLERK: The Vice Chair reported that the Clerk had submitted his resignation but had agreed to continue during the audit arrangements and up to the 30th June, 2025 if needed. The vacancy had been advertised on the DAPTC website.
It was also noted that the Village Hall intended to circulate a Flyer and it ws suggested that the vacancy for Clerk/RFO be included which would be circulated to all residents in the Village. The Parish Council would meet the costs.

17. Dates of future Meetings: Future meetings would be held in the Village Hall on the 3rd Jul, 2025, 3rd September, 2025 and and 4th November, 2025.

18. Any Other Business:
No items were raised.

The meeting concluded at 9.40pm

 

Attached Files

•  bppc-minutes-2025-05-01_BPPC MINUTES 1ST MAY 2025.pdf   74.71KB
  

[Administrator]

The agenda for the meeting held on 26 June is available below.

 

BRADFORD PEVERELL PARISH COUNCIL

 

A Meeting of Bradford Peverell Parish Council will be held at Bradford Peverell Village Hall on Thursday, 26th June, 2025
Commencing at 7.30pm

 

AGENDA

 

1. Introduction and welcome to the meeting. Chair

 

2. Apologies for absence. Clerk

 

3. Election of Chair. Clerk

 

4. Public Participation Period

The Chair will invite members of the public to air any concerns or raise matters of public interest relating to the Parish.

 

5. Minutes of the Annual Meeting held on the 1st May, 2025. Clerk

 

6. Matters arising from the Minutes not included on the Agenda: Clerk

• Jubilee and Millenium Fields – Erection of Signs
• Review of Documents and Policies (Update)

7. Representatives:

To confirm the following as the Council’s Representatives for the Municipal Year 2025/26 Representatives Reports:

• Planning: Cllr. Meaden
• Amenity Fields and Play Area Inspections: Colin Chapman
• Village Maintenance: Cllr. Howard
• Village Hall: Cllr. Morgan
• Muckleford: Cllr. Bishop
• River/Flood Warden: Cllr. Hawkins

8. Correspondence Received by The Clerk.

i) Grass Verge/ Tree adjacent Jubilee Field
ii) Any other correspondence received.

 

9. Finance Clerk

i) Payments made since the last meeting:
ii) Grant Support To report that a Grant payment has been made under Section 137 of the Local Government Act, 1972
iii) Payments to be made:

DAPTC – Annual Subscription £197.15
Barker Fox Internal Audit Costs £125.00
Clerk’s Salary (May/June 36 hours £456.24
Clerk’s Expenses: Mileage (Audit) 30@450 £13.50
HMRC £ 114.00
Bradford Peverell Village Hall (Grant) £4332.00

iii) Money received since the last meeting

VAT Reclaim £26.49

iv) Parish Council Banking - Lloyds Bank Signatories

Alternative Banking Providers

v) Internal Audit Report Previously circulated – To note the Auditors recommendations.

External Audit (BDO LLP) Certificate of Exemption and Annual Governance and Accountability Return - Update

 

10. Website (Update)

 

11. To report on the appointment of Clerk/RFO

 

12. Village Hall Constitution – Review Clerk

 

Any Other Business (For Information Only). Chair

 

Future Meetings: 3rd September; 4th November 2025; 8th January, 2026
 

Attached Files

•  bppc-agenda-2025-06-26_AGENDA 26th June 2025.pdf   73.44KB