May 2024 Minutes Annual Parish Meeting
ANCASTER, SUDBROOK, AND WEST WILLOUIGHBY PARISH COUNCIL
ANNUAL PARISH MEETING
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL PARISH MEETING HELD ON MONDAY 20 MAY 2024 AT 7.00PM IN THE PARISH HALL ANNEXE
Present: Cllr Sayer (Chair) County Cllr P Martin, District Cllr I Stokes,
14 members of the public and D Gascoyne Parish Clerk
1. Welcome by the Chair: Cllr Sayer welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked them for attending.
2. Apologies for Absence:
a. Apologies for absence had been received from Cllr Rock. It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved: that apologies for absence with valid reasons be accepted from Cllr Rock.
3. To resolve to accept the notes of the Annual Parish Meeting held on 22 May 2023 (copies circulated at the meeting). It was proposed, seconded and
Resolved: that the Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting held on 22 May 2023 be accepted as a true record, and these were signed by the Chair.
4. Presentation of Annual Reports:
• Chair David Sayer - presented his annual report, and a copy is attached to these minutes.
• County Cllr P Martin – presented his annual report, and a copy is attached to these minutes.
• District Cllr I Stokes – gave a verbal report. Parishioners asked if he knew if any progress had been made with the building on the former A C Williams depot. To date nothing had been heard.
• Andrew Newton Cemetery Manager – gave his report and a copy is attached to these minutes.
5. Finance Report by Responsible Finance Officer. The Responsible Finance Officer gave her report, and a copy is attached to these minutes.
6. Any other business which residents wish to raise:
Flooding – The flooded properties on Water Lane were no further forward. They were still waiting for a Section 19 and had now been out of the properties for 5 months. Cllr Martin agreed to investigate, he did say that all Section 19 should be finalised by August.
Manhole Covers Ermine Street - A parishioner reported the manhole cover near the entrance to the Dr surgery had been reported on Fix-My-Street, but no progress had been made. He had reported it to both Anglian Water and LCC. Another manhole cover was broken towards the Co-op this also needed attention. County Cllr Martin agreed to investigate.
The meeting closed at 8.15pm
Ancaster, Sudbrook, and West Willoughby Parish Council
Chairs Annual Report 2024
As Chair of the Parish Council, I am pleased to present our annual report for the year ending May 2024. This year has been one of steady progress and community collaboration. Despite a relatively quiet period in terms of major developments, we have made significant strides in maintaining and improving our village infrastructure and community engagement.
Council Composition and Community Involvement.
In May 2023, local elections were held, and nine Parish Councillors were re-elected unopposed, eliminating the need for a physical election. Since then, we have recruited two additional Parish Councillors, achieving a full council with all 11 positions filled. We encourage residents interested in contributing to our community to consider the role of Parish Councillor. Vacancies typically arise each year, so please contact our clerk if you are interested.
Highways Works and Infrastructure Improvements
This year had been notable for significant highway improvements:
• Ermine Street Resurfacing: After persistent efforts, Ermine Street has been fully resurfaced, reducing road noise and vibration for residents. However, we are monitoring vehicle speeds as the smoother surface may encourage faster driving.
• Wilsford Lane Enhancements: As part of the Bellway Homes development, Wilsford Lane has seen road widening, resurfacing, and an upgrade to the footpath leading to the A153 junction.
• Speed Limit Adjustments: The speed limit from Woody’s to the west side of West Willoughby has been reduced from 60mph to 40mph. However, we are actively pursuing a further reduction on the east side, where the speed limit currently increases to 50mph in a built-up area.
• School Safety Zone: We are advocating for a 20mph school safety zone near the school entrance on Ermine Street to enhance safety during peak hours.
Flooding Response.
Early in 2024, heavy rains led to the first significant flooding in Ancaster in many years, affecting two homes on Water Lane and several gardens. The Parish Council, in collaboration with residents, has requested a Section 19 report from the County Council to investigate the causes and responsibilities related to the watercourse. Addressing flooding is a high priority, especially as such events are likely to become more frequent.
Community Initiatives.
• Coronation Commemoration. Thanks to Councillors Anne Hollick and Andrew Newton, we planted a tree at the entrance of the Community Orchard to mark the Coronation of King Charles 111. Additionally, we installed and information panel and a bench in the orchard. Our new grass cutting contractor will create a walkway around the orchard, allowing residents to enjoy the fruit trees and the tranquil setting. This will only improve as the trees mature.
• Tribute to Councillor Ray Wootten: We honoured our dedicated Grantham North Lincolnshire County Councillor Ray Wootten, who sadly passed away last year. Ray will be missed for is tireless work and his commitment to our community. We are proud that he chose to be buried in Ancaster Cemetery.
• Tribute to Councillor Rosemary Kaberry-Brown: We sadly also honoured our dedicated Peascliffe & Ridgeway Ward South Kesteven District Councillor Rosemary Kaberry-Brown, who sadly passed away last year. Rosemary will be missed for her 20-year service with SKDC as a councillor and her commitment to our community.
Acknowledgements.
I extend my sincere thanks to my fellow council members, our clerk, our booking clerk and caretaker for the Parish Hall, our community cleaner, and all the volunteers who have contributed to the smooth running of our village affairs this year. Your dedication is deeply appreciated.
Finally, I want to thank all residents of Ancaster, Sudbrook, and West Willoughby for your patience, understanding, and continued support. It is through our collective efforts that we maintain the unique charm and quality of life in our village.
Let us look ahead with optimism and a renewed sense of community spirit. Together we can ensure that Ancaster, Sudbrook, and West Willoughby remain places we are all proud to call home.
David Sayer
Chair
Ancaster, Sudbrook, and West Willoughby Parish Council