Meeting 2026

Minutes of the Meeting of Rippingale Parish Council, held in the Village Hall on Monday  July 2026.
Present: Cllr Lumb (vice Chair), Cllr Lambord, Cllr Earl, Cllr Simmons, Cllr Warcup and the Clerk, L. Davies.

Vice Chairman’s Opening remarks

The meeting was opened by Cllr Lumb, Vice-Chair, who welcomed all those present in the absence of Cllr Creek, Chair. The room were advised that a brief closed session would be held at the conclusion of the meeting to discuss confidential matters.

A resident enquired whether it would be possible for a bus shelter to be installed, noting that school children are required to wait for their bus in all weather conditions. The Clerk advised that this matter had been considered previously and will investigate the historical information and any previous decisions before reporting back to the Council.
    
Update on the request for additional parking at the Dovecote.
The Council considered the previous request for an update regarding the proposed additional parking at the Dovecote. It was noted that this matter is the responsibility of South Kesteven District Council (SKDC) rather than the Parish Council.
The Clerk advised that the Parish Council had facilitated the process by forwarding the residents' petition and request to SKDC. The proposal was considered sympathetically by the District Council; however, it was not able to proceed due to funding constraints. It was further noted that a more detailed proposal, including design and costings, had previously been suggested as a possible way forward, although SKDC's current priority remains the delivery of housing.
The Parish Council agreed that it had fulfilled its role in facilitating the request and that no further action could be taken by the Council. Should residents wish to pursue the matter further, they were advised to raise it with the District Councillor, Cllr Abel, although it was acknowledged that the response from SKDC is unlikely to have changed in light of its current priorities. The matter was therefore considered resolved and closed by the Parish Council.

Formal Meeting Agenda
1.    To receive Apologies for Absence and approve Reasons Given.  
Apologies received from Cllr Creek, due to personal reasons. Resolved.
2.    To receive any new Declarations of Interest.
None received.
3.    To approve the Minutes of the last Parish Council Meeting held on 8th June 2026.
Cllr Warcup raised that the planning application refers to doctors lane, rather than the ‘Old Doctors Surgery’ on station street. Clerk to amend.

Matters arising from previous minutes (not raised elsewhere in this Agenda)
4.    To discuss and review the need to move over to a .GOV emails to come in line with Assertion 10 on the AGAR 2026/2027
The Clerk reported that the Council had previously resolved not to implement .gov.uk email addresses for all councillors due to the associated costs. However, the requirements of AGAR Assertion 10 continue to encourage the use of secure .gov.uk email addresses where possible as part of good governance and cyber security practices. The Clerk advised that, following discussions with other parish clerks, Parish Online is now offering a free .gov.uk Clerk's Inbox. Details of the scheme were circulated to Members for consideration. The Council was asked to consider approving the transfer of the Clerk's current email address to the free .gov.uk Clerk's Inbox, recognising the governance and security benefits while avoiding additional cost to the Parish Council. Clerk to action the changes.

External & Community Group Updates: 
5.    County & District Council Reports – as available.
None Provided.
6.    Community Groups & Organisations – 
a.    Village Hall Management Committee - The VHMC financial year concludes on 31 July. It was reported that, based on the current financial position, the VHMC are on course to achieve another positive financial outcome for the year.
b.    Hospital Car Scheme - Since the previous meeting, four requests for transport had been received, one of which the scheme was unfortunately unable to accommodate.
It was noted that the scheme continues to have four volunteer drivers available to undertake journeys. The Community Transport Coordinator advised that all volunteer drivers have been asked to submit their mileage and expenses claims for the period 1 January 2026 to 30 June 2026. Claims have been requested by 7 August 2026, after which they will be submitted for reimbursement.
c.    RGAG  - The Council received an update from the Rippingale Gardening and Allotment Group (RGAG). Despite the recent hot weather and prolonged dry conditions presenting challenges, plot holders reported that crops continue to grow, with many experiencing successful harvests.
The RGAG acknowledged and thanked the Clerk for issuing an apology to all plot holders. However, it was noted that the Group considers there to be further scope for improving communication between the Parish Council and RGAG. An update on the proposed Service Level Agreements (SLAs) was requested. The Group reported that a productive meeting had taken place with the new Allotment Liaison Councillor, Cllr Brian Simmons, and expressed confidence that this appointment would strengthen communication between RGAG and the Parish Council. Members were advised that a number of allotment plots, particularly those that have been subdivided, are currently being remeasured to ensure records remain accurate.
RGAG requested that the Parish Council issue a reminder to all plot holders asking that no bonfires are lit on the designated burning area while the current hot and dry weather continues, due to the increased fire risk. The Council noted that RGAG has submitted a proposal to continue undertaking the grass-cutting at the allotment site for the Council's consideration.
An update was received on Phase 3 of the water harvesting project, which is currently in the planning stage, with potential locations under consideration.
It was also reported that a further allotment plot has been let, leaving three half plots currently available for allocation, subject to any plots that may be relinquished following the annual invoice process.
d.    PCC No update as Cllr Lumb was unable to attend the last meeting. It was noted that the Lottery funding application has not yet been submitted. The Parish Council confirmed its continued support for the project and looks forward to receiving further updates in due course. There is a new Vicar has been appointed, they manage approx 10 other churches.
e.    Police Update  - None
f.    Feast Committee - The Council received an update from the Feast Committee. It was reported that the Committee met on 14 June 2026, during which the recent Mini Feast was reviewed and considered to have been a successful event. The event is estimated to have raised approximately £700–£800. Members were also advised that the forthcoming Village Garage Sale/Car Boot event is currently being planned, with further details to be announced in due course.
g.    Jubilee Playing Field / Youth Engagement Initiative – No formal update
Parish Matters

7.    Newsletter To discuss and review printing quotations.
The Council considered the options for publishing the community newsletter. It was agreed that trialing online publishing represented a worthwhile approach, particularly as the editor had no concerns regarding the collection arrangements. It was noted that support is available within the community to assist with preparing the publication in the required format, to the publisher. Should the online publishing option prove unsuitable, the Council agreed that printing would instead be sourced through a local firm. Clerk to liase with Editor. 
8.    Jubilee Playing Field
a.    To receive an update the SKDC Prosperity Fund grant
The Council received an update on the Jubilee Playing Field project. It was reported that limited progress has been made since the previous meeting, as work cannot proceed until access to the project funds is available. Concern was expressed that, with the project now into mid-July, the remaining summer months provide the best opportunity to undertake the groundworks while conditions are favourable. Despite this, preparatory work continues. Cllr Earl and resident recently met with National Grid to discuss the relocation of the electricity supply. A request has been made for an isolation switch to be installed, enabling the electrical supply to be transferred to the new portacabin. National Grid will provide a revised quotation; however, the anticipated lead time remains six to eight weeks, and works cannot be scheduled until payment has been received. The Council noted the assistance being provided by another resident, whose construction and engineering experience has proved valuable. Investigative works have identified the location where the electrical cable exits the existing portacabin. During these works, a quantity of waste was also removed from the area. It has been suggested that the replacement portacabin be positioned further forward to allow continued access for the grounds maintenance contractor behind the building and to discourage the area from becoming a location for fly-tipping or general dumping. Members considered this to be a sensible proposal. It was further reported that concerns have been identified regarding the structural condition of the existing portacabin roof, with a potential risk of collapse during relocation. As a result, alternative options are being explored, including obtaining quotations from specialist contractors to demolish and remove the existing structure, should this prove to be the safer and more cost-effective solution. 
b.    To receive an update on annual playground inspection for insurance purposes. 
No date as yet. Clerk will chase
c.    To Discuss location and placement of Yeti notice board
The Council noted that, as the Jubilee Playing Field project is currently delayed, the proposed installation of a new notice board will also be deferred. Members agreed that there would be little benefit in erecting the notice board at this stage, as there is presently no project information or updates available to display. The installation will therefore be reconsidered once the project progresses.
9.    Allotments. 
A.    Siting for Phase 3 of the water harvesting initiative needs to be discussed and agreed.
The Council received an update on Phase 3 of the water harvesting project. It was reported that the proposed location is on an area of land currently rented to a local farmer. Members noted that this area is presently used as a buffer zone to reduce the impact of crop spraying. Cllr Simmons to liaised with Farmer. 
b. Combination locks for all allotment entrances could do with resetting
For security reasons, the Council agreed that the access padlock codes at the allotment site should be changed. The new code will take effect on 1 August 2026. The Clerk was instructed to update the padlocks and communicate the new access code to all allotment holders by email in advance of the change.
c. A code of conduct for plot holders might help with anti-social behavior on the site.  Something straightforward and concise and posted on the notice board at the car park entrance might be an idea. 
Cllr Simmons noted that these requirements are already contained within the Allotment Tenancy Agreement and reminded Members that all plot holders are expected to comply with the terms of their tenancy.
d. All plot holders shall follow the conditions relating to the use and maintenance of the allotment as set down in the tenancy agreement and rules.
Cllr Simmons noted that these requirements are already contained within the Allotment Tenancy Agreement and reminded Members that all plot holders are expected to comply with the terms of their tenancy.
e. Every plot holder acting individually or collectively shall not give, receive or provoke behaviour that can be judged to be verbally, physically or mentally intimidating, aggressive or threatening to other plot holders or groups of plot holders.
Cllr Simmons noted that these requirements are already contained within the Allotment Tenancy Agreement and reminded Members that all plot holders are expected to comply with the terms of their tenancy.
f. Plot holders will not use discriminatory language or behaviour towards other plot holders.
Cllr Simmons noted that these requirements are already contained within the Allotment Tenancy Agreement and reminded Members that all plot holders are expected to comply with the terms of their tenancy.
g. Split plots should be re-measured as a priority and all plots re-measured over time.
Cllr Simmons reported that the remeasurement of allotment plots has commenced and that a number of discrepancies have been identified between the recorded and actual plot sizes. One plot holder has requested a refund for the previous three years, as their plot has been found to be smaller than the size for which they have been charged.
Cllr Lumb stated that the remeasuring was focused onimprovement going forward rather than a review of historical management. It was agreed that the Clerk would acknowledge the refund request and provide the relevant allotment management information to Members to assist with the Council's consideration of the matter.
h. Maintenance and safety of the Orchard.  The large trees in the orchard need to be dramatically reduced in height and scale.  The seating under one of the trees is broken, it is recommended not repairing these until the trees are deemed safe to sit under.  
Cllr Simmons reported that the seating at the allotment site should be removed on health and safety grounds, as it is considered to present a potential risk. It was also noted that the surrounding trees require reduction in size to improve safety and ongoing site management. Cllr Simmons agreed to obtain quotations for the necessary works and present these to the Council for consideration.
i.    To discuss and consider new numbers for all of the plots as some are missing and others broken 
Cllr Simmons noted that, following the subdivision of several allotment plots, the current plot numbering has become inconsistent, with some numbers now missing. Members agreed that it would be beneficial to introduce a logical and sequential numbering system to improve plot identification and record-keeping. Cllr Simmons agreed to investigate suitable numbering solutions. A resident also advised that they had produced the existing plot numbers and indicated that they would be willing to manufacture additional numbers if required.

10.    Planning: To receive and consider planning applications:
a.    S26/1012 Proposed replacement of Barns with 2 Storey dwelling and garage. 
Members agreed that this represented a better proposal. However, it was noted that any future works should take appropriate account of environmental considerations, including the potential impact on wildlife and local habitats. Cllr Warcott will work with the Parish Clerk to coordinate comment to SKDC
b.    S26/10118 – Erection on Shed to store tools No comment
c.    S26/1000 - Section 73 application to vary condition 2 (approved plans) of S25/1476 (Residential development of two detached dwellings)
1.    Feast
a.    To receive and consider the updated Feast constitution
The circulated Feast Committee Constitution was considered; however, it was noted that a number of last-minute amendments had been made prior to the meeting. As Members had not had sufficient opportunity to review the revised document, approval was deferred. The Constitution will be brought back to the next meeting for consideration and adoption.
b.    To Discuss how the village events calendar is up loaded on the Parish Website
The Clerk reported that the community events calendar for July has been created. Publication is currently awaiting confirmation of the remaining event details, including contact information and venue locations, before it can be finalised and made available.
c.    To discuss and review the Feast Bank account 
No action yet. 

11.    Other Matters
a.    To receive an update on National Grid proposal for a pylon route South of Rippingale (WMEL)
Cllr Lumb raised concerns regarding the potential impact on the local community and the wider implications of the matter. Following discussion, Members agreed that an Extraordinary Parish Council Meeting should be arranged to allow greater community engagement and provide residents with an opportunity to share their views. The Council also agreed that consideration should be given as to whether the Parish Council should submit an objection to the Spalding planning application, recognising that any decision may have long-term implications for the village. This matter will be considered further at the Extraordinary Meeting.
b. Land behind Brambling Walk – the Parish Council received notification that the develop has appealed SKD decision to oppose the development of 10 houses. Dealine for comment is 11th Aug. An Extraordinary meeting will be held on 3rd August 7pm Village hall to discuss and consider any response  
c. To receive an update on the flooding and the emergency volunteer group.
None 
d.    To discuss Parish Website, who has ability to update and what needs updating. 
The Clerk reported that work on updating the Parish Council website is ongoing. Councillor details have been updated, and the latest meeting minutes and agendas, AGAR documentation, public notices and other statutory information have all been published and are now available on the website. Further updates will continue as part of the ongoing review and maintenance of the site.

Financial Matters:
2.    Bank Accounts 
a.    To receive an update on the JPFT funds transfer to a new bank
The Clerk reported that Lloyds Bank had cancelled the application. The Clerk will investigate the reasons for the cancellation and provide an urgent update to Members once further information has been obtained
b.    To discuss insurance for Trustees on JPFT – as the current cover is not considered to be adequate to protect against the potential risks of managing a public space"
The Council considered the renewal of the Parish Council insurance. It was agreed to instruct Zurich Insurance to provide cover for the forthcoming year, as the quotation received was considered competitive and represented value for money. Members noted that the renewal does not include Trustee Indemnity cover. Quotations had been obtained for this additional cover; however, the options received were not considered sufficient to meet the Council’s requirements. Further consideration of Trustee Indemnity arrangements will be required.

3.    Financial Reports:
a.    To receive an update of the Expenditure in Period
b.    To Approve payments 
The following payments were approved for payment:
•    Clerk’s Home Office Allowance (Quarterly) – £25.00
•    Clerk’s mileage – Parish Council meetings (April, May and June) – 36 miles at £0.45 per mile – £16.20
•    Clerk’s mileage – Allotment meeting – 36 miles at £0.45 per mile – £16.20
Total approved payments: £57.40
c.    To Discuss and review the AGAR for 2025/2026. 
The Clerk advised that the Parish Council is awaiting an update from PKF Littlejohn, as the Council is subject to a full external audit this year. Further information will be provided once received.

Close Session
4.    To discuss the Allotment orchard maintenance – 
5.    Human Resources 
a. To Consider a review of Parish Clerk employment documentation. 
o    Job description
o    Appraisal process - Performance objective setting
o    Training expectations
o    Changes to terms of contact (changes would exclude core contract terms including hours, pay scale, notice period, place of work base unless there was explicit agreement with the incumbent employee)

Public Response. Items for the next meeting and issues/points arising from discussion for future discussion.

Next meeting 10th August 2026 General Meeting at 7.00pm in Rippingale Village Hall