February 2023 Minutes
GREETWELL PARISH COUNCIL
https://greetwell.parish.lincolnshire.gov.uk/
Mrs C M Myers
Clerk to the Council
94 Jubilee Close
Jubilee Park
Cherry Willingham
Lincoln
LN3 4LD
Tel: 01522 750531
Email greetwellparishcouncil@gmail.com
MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF GREETWELL PARISH COUNCIL HELD ON MONDAY 6 FEBRUARY 2023 IN THE SUDBROOKE VILLAGE HALL
PRESENT:
Councillors John Taylor (Chairman), Mrs Sarah Bates (Vice Chair), Keith Johnson, Mike Taylor, Chris Thatcher, Vernon Stuffins
County Councillor Ian Fleetwood, District Councillor Mrs Anne Welburn,
Clerk Mrs Christine Myers
111 – 2022/23 PARISHIONERS ITEMS
It was brought to the Council’s attention that the ‘Queuing traffic’ sign on Wragby Road East was very faded and required replacement. A photo would be taken of it and forwarded to the Clerk to enable this to be reported on Fix My Street.
A street light was not working on the corner of Westfield Approach – Clerk to report on Fix My Street.
112 – 2022/23 TO RECEIVE APOLOGIES AND REASONS GIVEN
Councillor Ms Sue Pullen – That the reason given be accepted unanimously Resolved.
113 – 2022/23 TO RECEIVE DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST ON ANY ITEMS ON THE AGENDA
None declared.
114 – 2022/23 NOTES OF MEETING HELD ON 9 JANUARY 2023 TO BE APPROVED AND SIGNED AS MINUTES
That the notes be signed as Minutes unanimously Resolved.
115 – 2022/23 POLICE MATTERS
A Cluster Meeting of Parish Councillors and the local Community Police Inspector had been arranged for Monday 20 February 2023 commencing at 10.30am in Scothern Methodist Chapel.
The Chairman, Councillor Ms Sue Pullen and the Clerk would attend.
116 – 2022/23 CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTS
A Correspondence received since last meeting as per list below:-
*Sent to residents’ email list:-
4.1.2023 – Email from Parish.UK Network – NALC investigating
5.1.2023 – Information on LCC Budget 2023/24
9.1.2023 - LALC Weekly E News
10.1.2023 - Notification of WYPF Annual meeting 21.3.2023
16.1.2023 - LALC E News
17.1.2023 - Notice of WYPF Annual meeting 21.2.2022
24.1.2023 - LCC Town and Parish Council newsletter
25.1.2023 – Notification from LCC of road works on A158 – 28.1.2023 for two days
B Street Furniture on bypass – No update on this from County Councillor Ian Fleetwood.
The Clerk was asked to enquire of WLDC for an update on the fixing of a dog bin near to the footbridge on the eastern bypass.
C Community Speedwatch:–
i Report of meeting between Councillor Mrs Sarah Bates and representative of Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership regarding additional Speed Indicator Device – Authority had been given from the LRSP for the siting of a second speed indicator device on Wragby Road East.
LRSP would fit the post at a cost of £200.00.
ii To consider approval of quotation from Elancity for purchase of second Speed Indicator Device to be sited on A158 North Greetwell - Members considered this quotation in the sum of £2250, excluding VAT, for an identical device to current one sited near Greetwell Lane junction.
That a second device be purchased as above and that the proforma invoice be paid when required proposed by Councillor Chris Thatcher, seconded by Keith Johnson and unanimously Resolved.
D Tree planting update – Three Silver Birch trees had been purchased for planting in the area of land adjacent the bypass. Councillors Vernon Stuffins and Mrs Sarah Bates would plant these along with daffodil bulbs in that area.
117 – 2022/23 TO CONSIDER PURCHASING A CHRISTMAS TREE FOR NORTH GREETWELL TO BE SITED ON THE ROUNDABOUT ON WESTFIELD AVENUE
Members considered the purchase of a Christmas tree at a cost of £84.00 for planting on the roundabout on Westfield Avenue, with it being decorated with timed battery lights during December with a ‘Switch on’ event of mulled wine and mince pies for residents.
That Councillor Mrs Sarah Bates to arrange purchase of tree, proposed by Councillor Vernon Stuffins, seconded by Councillor Keith Johnson and unanimously Resolved.
118 – 2022/23 FINANCE
A Review of Fixed Asset Register – This had been circulated to members. That it be approved without change unanimously Resolved.
B Review of Parish Council Risk Assessment – This had been circulated to members. That it be approved without change unanimously Resolved.
C Accounts for payment/paid
Mrs C Myers - Expenses January – £18.40
Mrs S Bates – Reimbursement for purchase of 3 Silver Birch trees - £133.31 net, £26.66 VAT = £159.97 gross
Staffing costs - £560.99 - To be paid 28.2.2023
LALC – 5 hours Website maintenance - £75.00 net, £15.00 VAT = £90.00 gross
That the above payments be ratified unanimously Resolved.
Income - DC Darcel Community Initiative Fund - £500.00 (to be used towards second Speed Indicator Device).
119 – 2022/23 PLANNING
Nothing to report.
120 – 2022/23 CLERKS REPORT
The Clerk reported that a representative from Anglian Water Communications Department would like to attend the next Parish Council meeting to discuss the specifics linked to the Elsham to Lincoln pipeline and answer any queries. It had been stated that AW were eager to help with local communities alongside this project with such things as volunteering.
Members felt that Litter picking may be an option but welcomed the opportunity of a representative attending the next Parish Council meeting.
121 – 2022/23 CHAIRMANS COMMENT
The Chair stated that he would like County Councillor Ian Fleetwood to pursue the reinstatement of the narrowing footway on Wragby Road East and the proposal by LCC of upgrading to cycle path from Westfield Approach to the Cherry Willingham junction, linking this with the continuation to Sudbrooke.
122 – 2022/23 DATE OF NEXT MEETING
Monday 6 March 2023, 7.30pm, Bramham Lounge, Sudbrooke Village Hall.
DISTRICT COUNCILLOR MRS ANNE WELBURN’S REPORT
Voter ID at 2023 Local Elections
From 4 May 2023 onwards, voters will be required to show an approved form of photographic identification at polling stations before they are given a ballot paper. The Government introduced this law in the Elections Act 2022, and it takes effect for the first time in England on 4 May 2023. This will affect all voters who vote in person or by proxy at the next local elections on Thursday 4 May 2023.
For those who choose to vote by post, then nothing will change. Voter ID has no impact on postal voting, only voting at polling stations.
What are the accepted forms of photo ID?
The only accepted forms of ID at polling stations are:
• Passport issued by the UK, any of the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man, A British Overseas Territory, an EEA state, or a Commonwealth country
• Photocard driving licence (includes a provisional licence) issued by the UK, any of the Channel Islands, the Isle of Man or EEA state
• Biometric immigration document
• Identity card bearing the Proof of Age Standards Scheme hologram (a PASS card)
• Ministry of Defence Form 90 (Defence Identity Card)
• Blue Badge scheme photocard parking permit
• National identity card issued by an EEA state
• Older Person's Bus Pass / Concessionary Travel pass/card (in Lincolnshire, this is the older person or Disability bus pass issued by Lincolnshire County Council)
• a Disabled Person's Bus Pass
• an Oyster 60+ Card
• Freedom Pass
• Electoral Identity Card for Northern Ireland
• Scottish National Entitlement Card issued in Scotland
• 60 and Over Welsh Concessionary Travel Card issued in Wales
• Disabled Person's Welsh Concessionary Travel Card issued in Wales
• Senior SmartPass issued in Northern Ireland
• Registered Blind SmartPass or Blind Person's SmartPass issued in Northern Ireland
• War Disablement SmartPass issued in Northern Ireland
• 60+ SmartPass issued in Northern Ireland
• Half Fare SmartPass issued in Northern Ireland
• Electoral Identity Card issued in Northern Ireland
• Voter Authority Certificate (for those without other photo ID) - applications will be able to be made online to GOV.UK or by a paper form. The application process for this type of Certificate is open from 16 January 2023
• Anonymous Elector Document - the application process for this type of Certificate will open on 16 January 2023
This list is also available at: https://www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/elections-voting/voter-id-elections
What if I do not Have a form of acceptable ID?
If voters are registered to vote but cannot provide one of the required forms of identification, they will be able to apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate (VACS) This is a free photographic document specific for the purpose of voting only. – (If a voter is not yet registered to vote they need to apply to vote first.)
For those without an accepted photographic ID, they can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate either via gov.uk or WLDC. The service launched on 16 January 2023.
Applications can be submitted through the UK government’s online portal or by submitting a paper form to our esteemed colleagues in the Electoral Services team (ereg@west-lindsey.gov.uk). West Lindsey is also offering a walk-in service during normal office hours.
This is a simple application and the Government have indicated VACs will posted out with two days of approval. More information about these application options is available here: https://www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/elections-voting/voter-authority-certificate
The closing date to apply for a Voter Authority Certificate is 6 days prior to a polling date.
There is also a really useful Frequently asked Questions section on our website regarding Voter ID (https://www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/elections-voting/voter-id-elections) covering such things as: -
The Rural Services Network
The Rural Services Network in partnership with the Citizens Advice Rural Issues Group has launched a Rural
They would appreciate your help in getting as many people as possible to complete the survey.
Independent research commissioned by the RSN in 2022 showed rural areas are suffering more acutely from the cost-of-living crisis compared to urban areas. To lend more weight to the argument for more funding for rural areas the RSN is calling on as many rural residents as possible to complete a Rural Cost of Living Household Survey. The purpose of the survey is to understand more about rural household budgets at, what is, a very difficult time for many. Research has shown that those living in rural areas face extra costs and the RSN now want to explore theses impacts for households. Responses will help the RSN to engage more effectively with Government Departments, MPs, and other policy makers.
The survey can be found at the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/Rural_Households_Cost-of-Living
Please forward the survey link to all your contacts, networks, family, and friends living in rural areas – the greater the response the better. Note the survey closes on 31 March 2023.
Solar Projects Update
Progress on the four solar NSIPs (Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects) continues. Key documents and helpful links can be found on the WLDC dedicated webpage here: https://www.west-lindsey.gov.uk/planning-building-control/solar-development-proposals-west-lindsey
WLDC have now engaged Atkins Ltd, a multi-disciplinary consultancy, to provide technical support for the assessment of the anticipated local impacts of the applications.
Cottam Solar Project (Island Green Power) - 600MW solar park across three sites in WL, totalling 1,270Ha.
We have been notified that an application for an Order granting Development Consent was made to the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) on Thursday 12th January 2023. PINS have advised that they will have decided on whether or not to accept the application by Thursday 9th February. WLDC have been formally invited to comment on the adequacy of consultation undertaken by the developer, and a response is in the process of being prepared.
In the event the application is accepted, PINS will be responsible for setting the examination schedule, which will be shared on further bulletins.
Gate Burton Energy Park (Low Carbon) - 500MW solar and energy park on approximately 684Ha of land, 4km to the south of Gainsborough.
PINS have advised that they anticipate an application for a Development Consent Order to be made by Friday 27th January 2023 (although it may be noted the Cottam application was received approximately a week after the anticipated date). Once an application is made, PINS will notify the Council of this, and the date by which a decision on whether or not to accept the application will be made by them.
West Burton Solar Project (Island Green Power) - 480MW Solar project across three sites within WL, totalling 788Ha in area.
Following the withdrawal of West Burton 4 from Bassetlaw District, the developer has revised the West Burton 3 site and undertaken further public consultation which ended 8th January 2023. Changes include a larger substation and addition of energy storage units on the site.
An application for a Development Consent Order is anticipated Q1 2023 (PINS have yet to give notification of an expected date).
Tillbridge Solar (Tillbridge Solar Ltd) - Approximately 1,400Ha of land to the west of Hemswell and Glentworth.
The developer is expected to submit their application for a Development Consent Order in Q3 2023. Prior to that date – the developer will be required to undertake public consultation. They have indicated that this will likely take place in Spring / Summer 2023.
Age UK Lindsey’s Aviva Community Fund Crowdfunder
Age UK Lindsey's dedicated team of staff and volunteers want to help older people who might be at risk this winter by helping them to be safer and warmer in their homes during the winter months. Working in partnership with other agencies and organisations that support older people such as Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service and targeting the most vulnerable older people in our local communities, they will deliver real help and support.
Donation would help them support as many vulnerable older people as possible, with staff and volunteers ready to help support those older people who need the most help.
Funds contributed locally by the end of January will be matched by Aviva and used to support AUKL's Winter Warmth project. This involves the assembly and distribution of boxes of seasonal essentials to 1,000 of the most needy older people in the area at this time. The link to the page, which gives access to more information about the project, is available here: https://www.avivacommunityfund.co.uk/thrive-in-the-home.
Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding
The Government has recently announced a scheme to deliver Energy Bills Support Scheme Alternative Funding to assist customers with their energy bills. This scheme will provide support to households that are responsible for paying for energy used in the dwelling where they have not already benefited from energy bill support scheme funding. Most eligible customers will be those residents in care homes, park homes, caravans and houseboats, homes off the grid, social and private tenants who receive their energy through a commercial supplier (e.g., landlords), heat network customers or anyone resident in a domestic residence with a commercial supply (e.g., farmers).
All applications will be made through a central form on gov.uk website which will then be verified by the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) before being issued to local authorities to perform an address verification, payment details verification to ensure the bank details match the name of the applicant and to check that there has not already been a payment made to the applicant. The local authority will then be required to issue a decision letter and report the outcome back to BEIS.
This is due to commence during January but as, yet no further information is available as to expected numbers of entitled individuals within each local authority.
Council Tax Support Fund 2023/24
On 23 December 2022, the Government announced another scheme to assist council tax support claimants with a reduction in their council tax liability (if they have one) for 2023/24. The allocation for WLDC has been announced at £160,263. This payment will enable a minimum award of £25 to be paid (or less to clear any 2023/24 council tax liability) with the option to create a discretionary hardship scheme with any balance remaining. Local authorities have been requested to make this payment against the annual council tax bills for 2023/24 which will be issued in March.
Calculations are currently being considered and software is expected before the issue of the annual bills. Governance processes will be followed prior to any such awards.