Meetings 2024

Minutes of the Meeting of Rippingale Parish Council, held in the Village Hall on
Monday 24th October 2024
Present: Cllr B Ross (Chair), A Creek (vice-chair), Cllr J Jones, Cllr A Lumb and L Davies
(Clerk).
In Attendance: Cllr R Dixon-Warren, J Kimbrey, J Grant, S Creek, D Palmer, M Dewes, D Knibbs,
S Knibbs, C Catt, J Middleton, S Flowers, F Andrew, C Burton, C Hall, L Rowledge, E Rowledge, G
Ireland, S Heywood, R Heywood, S Heywood, T Wright, M Lock, S Langman, A Pynn, S Vickers, L
A Bridger, A Cliffe and W Grey. There were approximately 50 members of the public present but
they did not all sign in. There were no Press in attendance.
Public Forum
- Chairman’s Opening remarks
1454. A warm welcome from Cllr Ross who expressed thanks to the many people for attending although
perhaps for negative reasons.
Comments, Questions & Queries from Press & Public
Many residents raised the questions relating to planning application S24/1 BB278. Cllr Ross advised that
objections need to be made directly on SKDC Planning Portal. Things that cannot be commented on:
effect on house prices, personal opinion, commercial harm, loss of light etc. What can be commented on:
how it related to SKDC local plan and the government policies, such as flooding.
A resident asked how many people is considered a family? Cllrs advised that this was not a relevant
question.
Cllr Lumb raised that SKDC Local Plan, Policy for Gypsies and Travellers, states that there is a duty to
provide 32 pitches in the district over the next 20 years (2016-2036). The policy outlines, in part, that there
needs to be access to shops, schools and amenities and the land can not be in an area at risk of flooding. .
Another resident commented that the application shows a touring caravan but the plot plan shows that this
would be trapped in by the static caravan.
The resident then noted that the application shows parking space for 3 vehicles but there are currently
more than that on site. Cllr Creek advised that the cars currently on site, are not part of the land that has
submitted the planning application.
The resident further commented that trees and hedges have been removed. Cllrs advised that the site
relating to the application does not have trees on it.
Cllr Dixon-Warren has to call the planning committee by the 11 th of November only if he felt that the
concerns from members of the public were valid objections and strong enough to warrant such a call.
Due to many questions from members of the public, the PC decided to call an extraordinary meeting to
allow more detailed discussions prior to anyone submitting comments on SKDC Planning Portal.
Formal Meeting Agenda
1.0 To receive Apologies for Absence and approve Reasons Given.
1455. None
2.0 To receive any new Declarations of Interest.
1459. None
3.0 To approve the Minutes of the last Parish Council Meeting held on 9 th September 2024
1460. The Previously circulated minutes of the last meeting were found to be a true reflection of the
meeting. Resolved.
Agenda item 6.1 was brought forward as C Catt was present at the meeting.
6.1 To consider co-option of C Catt to the council
1461. Councillors voted to coopt C Catt to the parish council. DPI forms and accepted signed in the
meeting. Resolved
4.0 Parish Clerk’s Report (excluding matters raised later in the Agenda)
4.1 Allotment Update – updating plot changes, tenancy agreements & payments
1462. There is a steady flow of enquiries coming in for new plots. There has been a request from the
plot holder of 5 & 6A to erect a poly tunnel up to but not exceeding 6m and shed. Vote was taken and
approved. Resolved

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4.2 Social Media Update
4.2.1 HCS advert
1463. This has been adverted on FB along with the Feast committee request. There has been a
few volunteers for the feast.
4.2.2 Handyman advert
1464. This is still live on the website, as yet minimal uptake.
4.2.3 General
1465. Ensuring that PC information is update on the website and links
4.2.4 AGAR external audit
1466. AGAR has been completed; it has raised 2 issues. Public notification, the issue on dating,
need to ensure that there is at least 1 day between creating and publishing. Clerk speak to PK
Littlejohn next year to confirm correct date going forward. The other error was due to allotment
fees being paid in the wrong financial year. Public notice for the notice board and the certificate
is on the website. Resolved
4.3 JPF Septic tank cleaning
1467. Clerk has spoken with firms who can visit site to look the septic tank to advise what
maintenance works may be needed, but there will be a cost. Action: Clerk to get cost for septic tanks
inspection
4.4 Non-Residents plot holders’ agreement
1468. Due to many plots remaining vacant for long periods, the tenancy agreement has been
ammended to allow non residents to have a plot. The criteria are that they must be within 4 miles of
the parish and that their own parish does not provide allotments. Councillors voted to accept the
changes to allow non-residents to have access. Action. Clerk to approach other parishes, but to do
another drive to encourage residents to have a plot.
4.5 To request software for allotments to streamline management.
1469. Clerk has looked at software that streamlines the management of the allotment, but aware
current funds, this is not possible. Will revise later. Closed NFA
4.6 To confirm meeting dates for 2025
13 th Jan, 10 th Feb, 10 th Mar, 14 th Apr, 19 th May, 9 th Jun, 14 Jul, 11 th Aug, 8 th Sept, 13 th Oct & 10 th Nov
1470. Dates were agreed for publication on the website. Action. Clerk to publish and circulate the
dates.
5.0 External & Community Group Updates:
5.1 County & District Council Reports – as available.
1471. Cllr Warren Dixon talked about the following.
Events were held in the area to commemorate the 80 th anniversary of Operation Market Garden and the
Battle for Arnhem in September 1944. These events included the Airborne Signals Reunion in Caythorpe;
‘Folkingham Remembers Operation Market Garden’; a memorial event at Buckminster Gliding Club; talks in
St Andrew’s Church, Haconby: and ‘Arnhem 80’, the Army Benevolent Fund Band Concert in St Wulfram’s
Church in Grantham.
5.2 Community Groups & Organisations –
5.2.1 Village Hall
1472. The village hall has 3 trustees who do a good job keeping the village hall operational.
There are 3 meetings a year; 18 th January, 17 th May, 20 th September and AGM 18 th October
2025. These are on Saturdays at 10.30am in the Village Hall, but if bookings conflict these dates
may change. Sunday Bingo will continue, unless numbers drop below 10. The Brownie sleep
over was a success and has led to another pack booking a sleep over. There is a 80th Birthday
party for over 75 people. Maintenance work has begun on replacing radiators.
5.2.2 Hospital Car Scheme
1473. Still requires drivers, as there are now only 3 drivers. Although requests have been
minimal; this is a valuable service for the community.
5.2.3 RGAG
1474. Nothing new to report but feel that communication between PC and RGAG is now
excellent.
5.2.4 PCC
1475. CHURCH COFFEE MORNING

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The event went well thanks to many volunteers including Judy and Judith who served up the
Coffee and Cakes. Fresh vegetables from the local fen are usually available for purchase.
Next event - Tuesday 5th November 2024 10.15am (No Fireworks) you will be made most
welcome regardless of race, religion and beliefs.
HARVEST FESTIVAL + SUPPER
This was a very enjoyable evening for everybody and we are so grateful to all our helpers who
worked so very hard to make it such a successful occasion. We must not forget the attendees
who supported us it was such a super atmosphere with our raffle and little table Quiz being so
well supported. Truly very many thanks to everybody.
This was Revd Neil’s last service at Rippingale and we all wish him the best of luck in the Future.
REMEMBRANCE SERVICE
This will be held Sunday 10th November 2024 10.30am. It will start in the Church and then
move outside to the War Memorial for 11am. There will be coffee and biscuits provided by the
Parish Council after the service which we hope you will be able to stop and enjoy.
FoRC (Friends of Rippingale Church)
There will be a meeting on Tuesday 12th November at 7.30pm in the Church. Anybody from the
village is welcome to discuss our fund raising events for 2025
5.2.5 Police Update
1476. Due a lack of evidence, the investigation into the vandalism has not proceeded, but if
future damage is reported and sufficient evidence provided then investigations will proceed with
the possibility of prosecutions. PC Wilson confirms there is an open crime number for the
damage to the swing at the JPF play area.

6.0 Parish Matters:
6.1 To consider co-option of C Catt to the council
1477. See 1461
6.2 To consider the progress to replace the portacabin at Jubilee Playing Field
1478. Work in progress,. Considering obtaining a 20ft steel container and identifying companies that
will deliver across the playing field. Costs to remove the existing unit to be sought. ACTION Cllr Catt to
take forward boththese actions
6.3 Update regarding existing grant funding for proposed pavilion.
1479. Tesco community grant remains available for community projects such as: supply and
installation goal posts, basketball hoop and net in tennis court and repair of the tennis net and posts.
SKDC propersity fund, awaiting response from SKDC regarding validity of the grant (£20,000).
6.4 To consider and discuss progress with the rectification of flood drainage concerns.
6.4.1 To receive update on complaint raised to LCC about 155 Station Street
1480. On going dialogue, but this has been going on for over 7 years with various people taking
the lead. The flooding in this area is high.
Clerk to contact Black Sluice for price to action additional dyke maintenance, perhaps twice a
year? Action Clerk to contact Black Sluice regarding costs.
6.4.2 Sandbags from SKDC storage solutions
1481. Awaiting padlocks, vote to purchase 4 padlocks, 2 for the allotments and 2 for the sand
boxes. First aid kit expired items have been identified. Clerk is awaiting cost from company to
replace. Action Clerk to purchase padlocks and liaise with Cllr Creek regarding sand delivery.
Clerk to forward cost of replacement first aid items.
6.5 To consider the progress with providing mains water supply to the Allotments.
6.5.1 To discuss and consider Deed of Easement
1482. The deed of easement is from £750 to £1500. Councillors to decide at next meeting which
price to accept.
6.5.2 To receive update on water application.
1483. There is one quote for the installation of the pipework. Cllr Ross to seek a second quote.
6.6 To discuss obtaining quotations for allotments maintenance and rotavating plots prior to new
tenants
6.6.1. To Discuss and consider ragwort management
1484. Ragwort to be maintain by plot holders, there is a plot designated for burning.

Resolved no further action required.

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6.6.2. To receive and consider quotations for allotment maintenance and rotavating plots
prior to new tenants.
1485. A quote has been received to maintain untenanted plots, general areas and trees as
and when required at an annual cost of £250. ACTION Cllrs to consider and vote at
next PC meeting
6.7 To receive and consider planning applications
6.7.1 13 East Street Monitoring
1486. No further changes
6.7.2 Willow Development monitoring
1487. No further changes
6.8 To received update on the update of the Neighbourhood Plan
1488. An email was received this evening in which SKDC advised that the change to amend the error
“and/or” is not, in its opinion, a minor change. SKDC suggested that RPC would need to undergo a full
review of the Plan and possibly a referendum to make the change. Councillors discussed that this
seemed a lot of money to change a one word on the document. Action. Cllr Ross to reject the SKDC
response with Cllr Dixon-Warren's support.
6.9 To receive update on overgrown hedges etc:
6.9.1 Along station street including land to the rear of Grinders Lane/Dovecote
1489. Letters to residents are to be delivered soon, to ask that the areas they are
responsible for are cleared.
6.9.2 Dykes in and around the village
1490. As per 1489

6.10 To discuss and consider Hedge cutting tender 2024 (Closed session)
1491. To be discussed under closed session
6.11 To discuss methods to assess residents’ views on use of playing field
1492. This is ongoing in an attempt to engage the village community. “Street Champions”,
representing each area of the village, would allow concerns to be raised. Councillors would also
like a youth representative, to ensure that the youngesters of the village also have a voice.
6.12 To discuss proposal to install a basketball post & net in tennis court and erection of football goal
posts
1493. See 1472
6.13 To discuss tennis court on going use, whether booking system, combination or key are options
are options to reduce vandalism.
1494. Combination padlock is working well and there is no need to change the current system.
Resolved
6.14 Update regarding moving 30 mph sign and dangerous “ruts” on Station Street
1450. The walkabout that Councillors had with Cllr Hill and LCC Highways was positive and
many actions undertaken including;- move the 30mph signs at the West end of Station St to
somewhere nearer to A15: removing the 30 mph signs along the east end of East Street which
would remove the short 60mph stretch at the moment edge of the village; installation of speed
warning signs at the entrances to the village: installation of kerbing at the road edge on south of
Station Street opposite Dovecote. A full list of potential actions is available.
6.15 To consider purchasing Remembrance Wreath
1451. Wreath has been purchased and has been delivered to Cllr Ross. The chair asked for
volunteers to help serve Tea and Coffee on the remembrace service. Resolved

7.0 Financial Matters:
7.1 Financial Reports:
7.1.1 FY 2024/25 Accounts to date & Approval of Expenditure
1452. The below payments were passed for payment.

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Code Supplier Total
Office Costs Chair £ 3.90
Office Costs Chair £ 3.60
Office Costs Chair £ 4.75
Office Costs Chair £ 21.96
Training Chair £ 19.35
Office Costs Chair £ 7.70
Audit Fees PKf Littlejohn £252.00
Land - Casual Labour Odd Job Bill £630.00
Village - Casual
Labour

Odd Job Bill £120.00
Clerk Salary The Clerk £530.30
Meetings Village Hall £ 18.75
Printing Warners
Group

£ 82.00

7.1.2 Forecast
1853. Under way and will be ready for next meeting.
7.2 Parish Bank Account Update including JPFT
1854. The process to move the JPF trust is under way and working through the opening process.
Clerk to report at next meeting.
8.0 Urgent reports or any other issues.
1855. Due to there being no Feast Committee, it has fallen to the PC to provide a village Christmas
tree this year at the Church. Cllr Catt is to manage the process. Action Cllr Catt to liaise with the
Church and the various volunteers.
9.0 Close meeting
1856. Dog waste bins have no regular person to empty them. Councillors have been been doing this
together with one kind volunteer. The PC has been approached by a person licenced to do this on a
regular basis at a reasonable cost. Action. Clerk to add item to the agenda.
2 nd Public Forum.
1857. None
Closed Session for 6.10.
1858. Hedge cutting contract - Clerk sent out 5 tenders and received only one quote from Gary’s
Garden at £1200+VAT. This is comparative with last year's cost, but Clerk to ask for price reduction. Action
Clerk to contact Gary's Gardens for a reduction in its quotation and contact S Charlton regarding his
quotation.
Next meeting: 11 th November 2024 at 7.00pm in Rippingale Village Hall