Ruskington Parish Council

 

Minutes of a meeting of Ruskington Parish Council held on Tuesday 11November 2025 at the Winchelsea Centre, 11 High Street North, Ruskington, NG34 9DY at 7pm.

Present:	Vice-Chairman	Cllr Cox
Councillors:		D Conway, B Harrison, S Hislop, A Jennings, L Sheldon, L Tomlinson
In attendance:		Mrs Kathryn Locke - Clerk to Council, Mrs Kirsty Sinclair – RFO
Apologies:		Cllr Ditch (chairman), Cllr Bain, Cllr Trolley

Also in attendance: Cty and D/Cllr R Wright, D/Cllr M Waldeck, guest speaker, Nina Camm (Waste and Street Scene Manager at NKDC) and two members of the public - a candidate for co-option and an allotment holder in regard to agenda item 11 below.

 

At 7pm, in the absence of the Chairman, the Vice-Chairman welcomed the delegates, and members of the public and invited Nina Camm to give a presentation on the upcoming new food waste collection. Ms Camm thanked Council for the invitation to give a presentation. The food waste collection was a directive from Government as part of its domestic food waste policy. Each household would receive two caddies - one for the kitchen worktop and one (lockable) for outdoor use, plus 52 bin liners (one year’s supply). The food waste collection scheme would commence at the end of March 2026 but with over 58,000 caddies to be delivered to households in North Kesteven (NK), the delivery of the caddies to households would commence from mid-January 2026. The caddies would be collected weekly on the same day as the household’s usual bin collection day. The process would be reviewed and amended depending on resident feedback. The process was about encouraging behavioural change and encouraging individuals to buy less food, waste less food, and save money. New food collection trucks had been purchased that ran on hydrotreated vegetable oil. Following collection, the food waste would be delivered via Sleaford to the anaerobic digester plant at Hemswell Cliff. The end product would be used as agricultural fertiliser for spreading on Lincolnshire fields. The plastic bags, once emptied, would be incinerated at the waste incinerator plant at North Hykeham, generated into electricity and used to heat local properties. Black bins would not be rejected if they contained food waste. Residents would be able to use soft plastic bags to line the kitchen caddie, such as bread bags. Ms Camm answered questions from the public and Council and demonstrated how the outdoor caddie locked and unlocked. Ms Camm also advised that bin collection days for everyone in NK would change over the Christmas and New Year period. The Vice-chairman thanked Ms Camm and Ms Camm left the meeting.

A resident raised a question about parking on double yellow lines on Church Street especially by the “take away” delivery drivers. Cllr Wright advised that there was no money for night time parking enforcement. It was considered that the Clerk could write to the business owners to try to prevent the parking on double yellow lines.

Cllr Wright advised that he had received complaints at the Remembrance Sunday service regarding the condition of the Garden of Remembrance for the event, such as the presence of fencing and weeds in the grass. It was explained that the garden was undergoing refurbishment, and an accessible path had been laid by Council’s caretakers. One area had been fenced off to allow grass seed to germinate. Cllr Wright suggested that a statement be made on Council’s social media to address the comments.

There were no other comments or questions from the public.

 

The Vice-Chairman opened the meeting at 7.40pm.

1. To receive and accept apologies where valid reasons for absence have been given to the Parish Clerk prior to the meeting.

Cllr Ditch, Cllr Bain and Cllr Trolley were unable to attend the meeting and had sent valid apologies.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to accept Cllr Ditch, Cllr Bain and Cllr Trolley’s apologies. Proposed by Cllr Tomlinson, seconded by Cllr Conway and approved unanimously.

 

2. To receive declarations of interest and to consider applications for dispensations in relation to DPIs. Disclosure of Pecuniary and Non-Pecuniary Interests is to be in accordance with the Localism Act 2011 and to consider any applications for dispensations in relation to DPIs.

None were declared at this time.

 

3. To approve as a correct record the notes of the meeting held on Tuesday 14 October 2025.

One query had arisen and was discussed.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to approve the notes of the meeting as accurate Minutes, following one amendment to a vote.  Proposed by Cllr Sheldon, seconded by Cllr Hislop and approved with five votes for and two abstentions (had not been present at the previous meeting.)

The Vice-chairman signed the Minutes.

 

4. To receive the District and County Councillors’ reports – for information only.

County Update:

Cllr Wright reported that:

• The South Hykeham relief road project had received approval from Government. The relief road would have a positive impact on Lincolnshire residents and motorists and home building. The road would undergo scrutiny from Highways later in the year and it was thought that bat bridges would be required to enable the road to be built.
• Four bids from Lincolnshire had been submitted to Government regarding the mandatory local government reorganisation.

District Update:

• NKDC had received two heritage awards for its Cranwell Aviation Museum and Mrs Smith’s Cottage.
• North Kesteven had a high level of tourism.
• NKDC were focusing on their finances which were currently in a good place. A fairer funding review was underway. No government funding had been received from Government for several years due to NKDC manging their finances so well.

In addition:

• Cllr Wright was aware of the issues with speeding and traffic on Station Road and was talking to LCC highways about this. As the road was a diversionary route, access for HGV could not be prevented.  Westcliffe Road had been resurfaced and a reduction in HGVs had been noted. Following investigation there was no evidence of HGVs speeding on Westcliffe Road.
• A discussion on traffic and parking issues on Chestnut Street and congestion at the junction of Jubilee Street and Station Road took place.  It was agreed for Cllr Cox to meet with Cllr Wright and Rowan Smith, Area Manager for Highways at LCC, to discuss the issues at the junction of Jubilee Street and Station Road.
• Parking on Chestnut Street at school pick up and drop off times was also discussed. Chestnut Street school had tried to resolve this issue. It was questioned if the Parish Council could issue letters to change parking behaviours.

Cllr Wright and Cllr Waldeck left the meeting.

 

5. Financial Matters

Information had been circulated prior to the meeting.

Cllr Conway left the meeting at 8.17pm.

    5.1. To approve the payments made and consider the invoices for payment received since the meeting held on 14 October 2025.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to approve the payments made and to pay all the invoices received. Proposed by Cllr Hislop, second by Cllr Tomlinson and approved unanimously.

   5.2. To consider /approve the bank reconciliations for October 2025.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to approve the bank reconciliations for October 2025.  Proposed by Cllr Hislop, second by Cllr Sheldon and approved unanimously.

   5.3. To receive a monthly financial report from the RFO and consider any recommendations.

Cllr Conway rejoined the meeting at 8.19pm.

This report had been circulated prior to the meeting and the RFO gave an overview. There had been an overspend on the Christmas trees as more businesses were opting to have trees on their premises. The early exit fee for Pozitive Energy had been paid. No questions were raised.

 5.4. To consider the invoice for £200.00 received by hand from the developer of Flaxwell Fields on 17/10/2025 for the s106 Deed of Variation.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to pay the invoice for £200.00. Proposed by Cllr Harrison, seconded by Cllr Conway and approved unanimously.

   5.5. To consider donating to the Citizens Advice Mid Lincolnshire following their donation request.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to offer the free use of a room in the parish office to meet with Ruskington residents. Proposed by Cllr Jennings, seconded by Cllr Harrison and approved unanimously.

   5.6. To consider the cost of a battery pack for the lights on the Sleaford Road Christmas tree.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to purchase the Antigravity PS-80 Portable Power Station at a cost of £175.00 and for this to be firmly secured, and to obtain costs for a permanent electrical supply for the Garden of Remembrance to inform the budget for 2026-2027. Proposed by Cllr Harrison, seconded by Cllr Sheldon and approved unanimously.

   5.7. To receive an update on the electricity supplier.

The RFO advised that following payment of the exit fee, Pozitive Energy had released the electric meter. The final invoice was awaited but Council had saved £1,200. All electricity supplies were now with Corona Energy.

At this point in the meeting, although not an agenda item, the RFO advised that the contract for the gas supply to the pavilion was due to be renewed with a new standing charge of £5.10 per day. The gas supply was to heat the water for the showers which were not in use. As the building was due to be renovated, and a gas supply would not be required, Council unanimously agreed for the RFO to cancel the contract. This would be an agenda item at the Estate Management and Planning Committee meeting on 25 November 2025.

 

6. To receive an update on co-option to Council.

No applications had been received but one co-option pack had been issued.

   6.1. To consider the co-option of Peter Cunningham to Council, following receipt of an application form and completion of all co-option policy requirements.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to co-opt Peter Cunningham to the Parish Council. Proposed by Cllr Conway, seconded by Cllr Harrison and approved unanimously.

Mr Cunningham and the Clerk signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office, and Cllr Cunningham joined the meeting. Although able to take part in the discissions, Cllr Cunningham was unable to vote at this meeting as he had not received any prior information regarding the matters to be considered.

 

7.   To receive the Clerk’s report - for information only.

This has been circulated prior to the meeting. No questions were raised.

 

8.  To consider/approve the following documents and their review dates as recommended following review.

The Clerk had reviewed the policies below that had not been reviewed by a committee.  Recommended suggestions for amendments following changes to legislation and using the LALC model documents as best practice templates had been made.

   8.1. IT and Communication policy including social media.

Deferred for a committee or Council to review.

   8.2. Accessibility (as found on the website)

Deferred for a committee or Council to review.

   8.3. Privacy Statement (as found on the website)

Deferred for a committee or Council to review the amendments.

   8.4. Volunteer policy as recommended by the HR Committee following its meeting on 20 October 2025.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to approve the Volunteer policy as recommend by the HR Committee. Proposed by Cllr Conway, seconded by Cllr Cox and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

   8.5. Terms of Reference (TOR) for the Events Committee following amendment.

The Events Committee had reviewed the TOR.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to approve and adopt the TOR for the Events Committee. Proposed by Cllr Harrison, seconded by Cllr Sheldon and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

   8.6. Data Protection Policy

Deferred for a committee or Council to review.

   8.7. Document Retention Policy

Following review no amendments had been required.

Action. The Council RESOLVED to approve/adopt the Document Retention Policy. Proposed by Cllr Conway, seconded by Cllr Cox and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

   8.8. Scheme of Delegation

Following review no amendments had been required.

Action. The Council RESOLVED to approve/adopt the Scheme of Delegation Policy. Proposed by Cllr Conway, seconded by Cllr Cox and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

   8.9. Complaints Policy

Deferred for a committee or Council to review the amendments.

 

9. To consider the appointment of Councillors to committees, as required.

The Clerk recommended that, where possible, committees had five members to ensure meetings were quorate at all times.

Action: Cllr Cunningham was appointed to the Estate Management and Planning Committee, and the Recreation and Environment Committee.

Cllr Conway was appointed to the Recreation & Environment Committee.

Cllr Cox resigned from the HR Committee.

Cllr Hislop was appointed to the HR Committee.

Proposed by Cllr Jennings, seconded by Cllr Tomlinson and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

 

   9.1. To consider the co-option of Maggie Harris to the Events Committee as a non-councillor member, following an expression of interest.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to co-opt Maggie Harris to the Events Committee as a non-councillor member. Proposed by Cllr Harrison, seconded by Cllr Sheldon and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

 

10. To consider/approve the Council meeting dates for 2026.

The dates had been circulated prior to the meeting.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to approve the dates for the Council meetings on the second Tuesday of every month except for August when there would be no meeting. Proposed by Cllr Jennings, seconded by Cllr Conway and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

   10.1. To consider/ agree the meeting date for the Annual Parish Meeting (between 1 March 2026 and 1 June 2026, inclusive), and consider the most appropriate venue, and format for the meeting.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to hold the Annual Parish Meeting on 1 June 2026. The format and the venue for the meeting to be considered. Proposed by Cllr Cox, seconded by Cllr Jennings and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

 

11. To consider the outcome of a consultation with the allotment holders and a risk assessment following a request to keep a beehive at the allotments and agree the next steps.

The RFO had undertaken a survey with the allotment holders. Without disclosing any confidential information, comments received included two mentions of allergic reactions to bee stings, comments in favour, questions about keeping livestock on allotments, and comments asking for the hives not to be located next to certain plots. The matter was discussed with agenda item 11.1. below. The allotment holder was invited to make comments. The allotment holder advised that they had arranged training and suggested that if the compost bins were removed, this location would be an idea site; with the hive facing the hedge with Horseshoe Hollow and the hive fenced off. If a bee hive were agreed, the bees would not be introduced to the hive until winter 2026. The possibility of siting a beehive in the community garden was also suggested for investigating.

Action: The Council RESOLVED that a working party comprising Cllr Sheldon, Cllr Tomlinson and Cllr Hislop would meet with the allotment holder at the allotments to agree the best location and to undertake a risk assessment. Proposed by Cllr Sheldon, seconded by Cllr Tomlinson and approved unanimously.

11.1. To consider the removal of the compost bins at the allotments following misuse and the costs of removing the waste items.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to remove the compost bins. Allotment holders could have a compost bin on their own allotment and would be responsible for removing all their own waste. Proposed by Cllr Tomlinson, seconded by Cllr Jennings and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

The allotment holder left the meeting.

 

12. To review the current Microsoft Office 365 package and consider using applications available including Teams and Planner to aid with communication and workflow.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to ask the Admin Assistant to arrange a couple of tutorials for councillors and staff to demonstrate the 365 applications such as Teams and the Planner so this could be considered and communication and workflow improved. Proposed by Cllr Cox, seconded by Cllr Conway and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

 

13. To receive an update and recommendations from the Event Committee meeting held on 7 November 2025.

Cllr Harrison gave an overview of the meeting and suggested events for 2026. These included a rubber duck hunt on the first bank Holiday in May, a celebration of youth day in August, and a Christmas market and a carol service on the second Friday in December. The Committee was keen to involve the Youth Club in designing / reviewing a poster for a possible upcoming public consultation flyer. Cllr Sheldon reported that a local events planner had items for sale that may be of use to Council and would find out more information.

   13.1. To confirm the dates and Councillor attendance at the following events:

   a. Community litter pick.

Cllr Tomlinson gave a report on the litter pick he had led at Parkfield playing fields.

Action: Council agreed to postpone further little picks until spring 2026. Litter picking equipment (adult and child sized) to be left in the pavilion as there was often litter in this location.

   b. Councillor surgeries or attendance at village events such as the Warm Space events at the Methodist Church.

Cllr Harrison advised that he was attending a Warm Space event in his role as a member of Ruskington Medical Centre’s Patient Participation Group.   Cllr Harrison advised that admin staff from the Medical Centre would be attending the next Warm Space event at the Methodist Church to demonstrate their new appointment system.

Action: Cllr Cox had already agreed to host a Councillor surgery on Friday 14 November 2025 and this had been advertised.

   13.2. To consider the invitation for a Council representative to attend a meeting of the All-Saints Ladies Club, at the Winchelsea Centre on a Wednesday evening at 7.30pm, to talk about the Council.

Action: Cllr Conway, Cllr Sheldon and the Clerk would attend a meeting to discuss Council services. The date was to be arranged with the Ladies’ Club.

 

14. To consider the following Highways matters:

Information had been circulated prior to the event.

   14.1. Speeding into the village on Lincoln Road (B1188) from Dorrington (as raised by a resident at the Councillor Surgery on 10 October 2025.

This had been referred to the LCC Highways and to the Community Speed Watch.  Cllr Cox advised that there were not enough volunteers to conduct the speed watch sessions.

Action: To obtain costs for non- permanent lamp post 30mph signs from the Road Safety Partnership.

    14.2.  Correspondence from a resident regarding traffic concerns and damage to property from larger vehicles on Station Road, Ruskington. [LCC Reference--118846-44978].

This had been discussed in agenda item above. (Cllr Cox to meet with Cllr Wright and Rowan Smith, Area Manager for Highways at LCC, to discuss the issues at the junction of Jubilee Street and Station Road.)

 

15. Recreation & Environment Matters – Cllr Cox

Cllr Cox gave a brief resume of meeting held with representatives of the Football Association on 22 October 2025 at the playing fields.

   15.1. To receive information on a 2G surface for the MUGA.

Cllr Cox advised that the FA were considering options for funding. It was unlikely that the FA would fund a 2G surface for the MUGA as they were being replaced by 3G pitches, and other surface materials were being investigated. Cllr Sheldon had circulated a list of questions which Cllr Cox answered. The need to increase the variety of sports, recreational and leisure facilities and activities for children aged eight years and older was raised by Cllr Sheldon.  Cllr Tomlinson advised that cork could be used as an alternative to rubber infill for a 3G pitch. Any funding from the FA for a new surface would require a contribution from Council.

   15.2. To receive the report from the Football Association, if available, following a meeting with their representatives on 22/10/2025 regarding possible funding for upgrading the changing rooms (not just the hot water system and showers), an alternative surface for the MUGA, and the possibility of the Lions JFC applying for funding to improve the ground at Parkfield playing fields.

The FA pitch report was awaited. The FA would be taking soil samples from the pitches.

An agreement from the Lions JFC regarding a proposal for the lease of the playing fields was awaited. This would enable them to maintain the pitches and Council would still have use of the fields.  Cllr Tomlinson advised that the Lions could also apply for funding for the equipment and ongoing maintenance. The FA had already noted the changing rooms as a possibility for funding for renovation although this may not be possible for a year or two. A discussion on the hot water supply took place.

Action:  The Council RESOLVED that Cllr Conway could phone contractors, from the Parish Office in the present of the Clerk or RFO, regarding the new boiler for the changing rooms and the connection of this to the solar panels, and for CIL money to be used to pay for the required new boiler and its connection to the solar panels. Proposed by Cllr Conway, seconded by Cllr Harrison and approved unanimously.

   15.3. To receive an update on the flood investigation works in Ruskington conducted by LCC /Stantec, the new Environment Agency flood warning system, and a Red Cross flood preparation project.

Information had been previously circulated following a meeting with the Senior Flood Team Manager at LCC on 29 October 2025. The investigative work on the drains and water ways had commenced. This would be followed by hydraulic modelling and a review of the model.

   15.4. To receive feedback from the Remembrance Sunday service and procession on 9 November 2025.

This had been considered in the public session above, and a collation of feedback from staff involved in the planning and preparation of the day had been circulated. In addition, the event had been so well attended it had been difficult to see if anything was out of place.  One half of the garden had appeared neater than the other half where leaves had fallen from the tree and a fence to protect grass seed had been erected. The road closures had gone well, and additional volunteers had helped on the day. 

Action: The Council agreed to publish an acknowledgment of the complaints raised with Cllr Wright, and to include mention of the Garden and the upgrade of the path to ensure its accessibility.

   15.4.a. To consider the purchase of 50 reusable lamp post poppies from the Royal British Legion at a cost of £250.00, for use at future Remembrance Day events.

Action: The Council RESOLVED to purchase 50 reusable lamp post poppies at a cost of £250.00. The cost to purchase 10 walkie talkies for events to be researched for the December agenda. Proposed by Cllr Cox, seconded by Cllr Harrison and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting.)

  

16.  To consider correspondence from the Village Hall Management Committee regarding an emergency exit pathway for the village hall. (Information previously circulated.)

Action: Further information was required from the Village Hall committee to include a Fire Safety Inspection certificate with any recommended or mandatory requirements.

 

17.  To receive an update on Estate Management and Planning Matters – Cllr Trolley

As Cllr Trolley was unable to attend the meeting, Cllr Conway gave a brief overview of matters.

   17.1. To consider the planning applications received from NKDC since the last meeting held on 14 October 2025, and ratify any comments made by the Estate Management & Planning Committee.

As Cllr Trolley was not present, these were not considered.

   a. Planning Application 25/1249/PNAGRW

Town and Country Planning General Permitted Development Order 1995, Schedule 2,

parts 6 and 7 - Application for prior notification of agricultural or forestry development.

Proposal: Proposed erection of 7no. silos on agricultural holding (Schedule 2, Part 6,

Class B, clause (b)).

Location: Wood Farm Wood Lane Ruskington

   b. Planning Application Reference: 25/1198/HOUS

Proposal: Extension to front of existing garage, addition of sectional garage and replace

leylandii hedge with fencing.

Location: 1 Priory Close Ruskington Sleaford Lincolnshire NG34 9ED

   c. Planning Application Reference: 25/1273/HOUS

 Proposal:  Erection of a single storey rear extension and alterations.

 Location:   21 Parkfield Road Ruskington Sleaford Lincolnshire NG34 9HS

   d. Planning Application 25/1113/FUL (Receipt of amended details)

Proposal: Single storey side and rear extension and demolition of existing garage.

Change of use class from C3 to mixed C3 and E as a sports therapy treatment room to form part of the extension. Location:  3 Ashtree Close Ruskington Sleaford

Application has changed from a Householder to a Full as the applicant is also applying for change of use.

   17.2. To receive notification of a withdrawn planning application

Reference: 25/0502/HOUS

Proposal: Erection of a 2 storey rear extension and front porch.

Location: 49 Westbeck Ruskington Sleaford

   17.3. To receive notice of applications approved by NKDC

a. Application Reference: 25/0969/HOUS

Proposal: Proposed garage conversion and side extension

Location: 11 Rectory Road Ruskington Sleaford

Notice of approval received on 13/10/2025

   b. Application Reference: 25/1249/PNAGR

Proposal: Proposed erection of 7no. silos on agricultural holding (Schedule 2, Part 6, Class

B, clause (b)).

Location: Wood Farm Wood Lane Ruskington

Prior approval is not required for the application.

   c. Application Reference: 25/1120/HOUS 

Proposal: Erection of single storey side/rear extension 

Location: 35 Roxholm Close Ruskington Sleaford

(Notice of approval received on 31/10/2025)

   17.4. To receive notice of a planning application refused by NKDC

Application Reference: 25/0922/LDEXI

Proposal: Application for a lawful development certificate for use of building and land for supported living accommodation (Sui generis).

Location: 48 Rectory Road Ruskington Sleaford.

(Notice of decision received on 20/10/2025.)

 

18. Correspondence - for information only. (Circulated to Councillors prior to the meeting).

   a. LALC (by email) – Fortnightly newsletter.

   b. Church Warden (by email on 10/10/2025) – Request for the Winchelsea Centre hedge to be cut between the Winchelsea Centre and the Parish Office.

   c. Organiser of Finley’s Fundraiser (by email on 10/10/25) – Support for a 2025 fundraiser.

   d. Lions JFC (by email on 13/10/2025) – Response to letter from the Clerk regarding the poor condition the pavilion had been left the previous week. 

   e. Member of public (by email on 14/10/2025) – Request for information on British Sign Language (BSL) lessons in Ruskington. [Admin Assistant signposted to local BSL classes].

   f. Resident (by email on 14/10/2025) – Appeal for an old photo of Ruskington water tower. [Admin Assistant signposted to a Ruskington Memories Facebook post about this and agreed to put the appeal in the newsletter.]

   g. Environment Agency (by email on 14/10/2025) – Notification of routine works in the area.

   h. Citizens Advice Mid Lincolnshire (by email on 20/10/2025) - Donation Request. (Agenda item above).

   i. Resident (by email on 21/10/2025) – Expression of interest in co-option to the Event Committee. (Agenda item, above.)

   j. Ruskington Village Hall Chairman (by email on 21/10/2025) – Emergency exit pathway for the village hall. (Agenda item, above).

   k. Resident (by email on 22/10/2025) – Traffic issues on Station Road and comments from LCC. LCC Reference-118846-44978. (Agenda item, above).

   l. Community Resilience officer (by email on 22/10/2025) – Red Cross Flooding Tool Project. (Agenda item, above.)

   j. LCC Flood Team, (by email on 22/10/2025) – Date for a meeting to discuss the overview of the flood investigation work and contacting local landowners. [Meeting arranged for 29/10/2025].

   k. British Red Cross (by email on 23/10/2025) - Response to questions regarding the Flood Preparation Project / App. (please see item k, above.)

   l. Lincolnshire Community Resilience (by email on 20/10/2025) – Status of the Community Emergency Plan a request for a copy.

   j. Clerks & Councils Direct (by post on 29/10/2025) – November 2025 newsletter.

   k. Resident (by email on 3/11/2025) – Inconsiderate parking on Parkfield Road at weekends. [RFO signposted to the Parking Enforcement Team at LCC]

   l. LCC (by email on 4/11/2025) – Avian Influenza in South Holland information.

   m. Chairlady of the All-Saints Ladies Club (by email on 5/11/2025) – Invitation for a Council representative to attend a meeting of the Club to talk about Council services. (Agenda item 13.2, above.

 

19. To receive Members’ Reports – for information only. (Any items raised for decision will appear on the agenda for the next meeting.)

• Cllr Jennings advised that she was unable to attend the meeting in December.
• Cllr Harrison advised that costs for notice boards were required to inform the budget for the 2026-2027 financial year.
• Cllr Conway asked that the next steps for the pavilion and changing rooms be included on the next agenda.
• Cllr Cunningham advised that safeguarding must be considered for all events planned and held and Council must appoint a safeguarding lead.

 

20. To resolve whether to exclude the public and press, in accordance with the Public Bodies (Admissions to Meetings) Act 1960, to discuss the following staffing and contractual matters below. 

Action: The Council RESOLVED to exclude the public and press so the staffing and contractual matters below could be considered. Proposed by Cllr Harrison, seconded by Cllr Jennings and approved with seven votes for and one abstention (unable to vote at this meeting).

 

21. To consider the staffing matters and recommendations from the HR Committee following its meeting held on 20 October 2025.

As the Chairman of the HR had been unable to attend the meeting, agenda items 21-21.7 below were deferred

   21.1. To review the letter to staff from the HR Cttee following appraisals.

   21.2. To consider the recommendations for changes to the following job descriptions following annual appraisals and informal consultations with the relevant staff members.

   a. Admin Assistant

   b. RFO/Deputy Clerk job descriptions

   21.3 To agree the HR Committee member to undertake the staff consultations with the Clerk, if required, to discuss the proposed changes to their job descriptions.

   21.4. To consider the recommendation of the Committee following a request from a staff member to increase their working hours to full time.

   21.5. To consider the requirement for a third caretaker.

   21.6. To consider the recommendations of the Committee regarding staff pay from 1 April 2026.

   21.7. To consider the Committee’s recommendation to increase Council’s contribution to staff pensions for FY 2026-2027.

 

22. To receive an update on the lychgate renovation and agree the next steps.

The Clerk gave an update. The request for additional funding would not be considered by the National Lottery Heritage Fund until the end of November 2025.

 

23. To receive a reminder of the 7 Principles of Public Life (Nolan Principles) for elected, co-opted and employed members of local government. 

The Vice-chairman advised everyone to read the information.

The Vice-chairman closed the meeting at 10.15pm.

Clerk’s Report for the November 2025 meeting.

Meeting date: 11 November 2025

Author: Kathryn Locke – Clerk to Council

Purpose of report: To provide an update report from the Clerk on business conducted since the Annual Meeting of the Parish Council held meeting held on 14 October 2025.

Min ref 5.1. The RFO has made all the payments approved.

Min ref 5.4. NKDC has advised that the s106 Deed of variation has been completed with the new wording as recommended by NKDC, approved.  (Agenda item.)

Min ref 5.5. The litter picking grant for 2025, of £1,749.64, has been received from NKDC.

Min ref 5.7. The Notice of Conclusion of Audit was displayed on the notice board and website for the required 14 days. 

Min ref 5.9. The RFO has transferred the approved £70,000 in to the Dudley Building Society Account.

Min ref 5.10. Cllr Harrison is now a bank signatory.

Min ref 5.11.a. The Scouts have been advised that they have been awarded a community grant of £500.00. They are delighted with this and have thanked Council. The money will be going towards new tents so the Scouts can attend Poacher Camp in 2026.

Min ref 5.13. The RFO has paid the exit fee of £1,520 to Pozitive Energy and instructed Corona to take over the account from 4 November 2025.

Min ref 6.1. Cllr Sheldon has completed her Register of Interests, and the Clerk has sent a copy to NKDC as required.

Min ref 8. Policies have been updated as required by the Clerk and added to the website by the Admin Assistant and circulated to staff where required.

Min ref 8.7. The Terms of reference for the Events Committee was reviewed by the Committee at its inaugural meeting on 7 November 2025. (Agenda item.)

Min ref 9.2a. Dr Cotter has been advised of her co-option to the Recreation and Environment Committee.

Min ref 10. The Ruskington Area Veterans’ Group has been advised of the outcome of their proposal for a wall of remembrance in the Garden of Remembrance and invited to meet with the Council to discuss the other options. 

Min ref 11. The organisers of Filey’s Fundraiser have been advised that they can use Parkfield playing fields for an event in July2026. They have asked for 11th July this is a Saturday (rather than Sunday 12 July). The Clerk has approved this using her delegated powers and with the Council’s knowledge. They were unable to attend the Events Committee meeting on 7 November at 9am due to their work commitments.

Min ref 13.2. The architect made a site visit to the pavilion w/c 4/11/2025 and has drawn up the plans for the building’s regulations.

Min ref 13.3. The successful structural engineer hopes to assess the load bearing walls in November 2025.

Min ref 14. Cllr Tolinson led the litter pick on 25/10/2025 and has provided feedback.

Min ref 15: The Admin Assistant had commenced the Knight, Kavanagh and Page Ltd survey on sports provision in Ruskington to inform a review of the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan but requires input from a member of the RE Committee, which has been requested twice.

Min ref 15.2. Options for powering the lights for a tree on the verge outside the Garden of Remembrance (to improve luminosity) have been investigated and circulated by the Admin Assistant. (Agenda item.)

Min ref 16. All planning comments have been sent to NKDC Planning by the Clerk.

Min ref 21. Eligible staff members have been advised (by letter) that Council will continue to pay sick pay from day one of sick leave. This will be reviewed in one year. (October 2026).

Min ref 22: The lychgate renovation was completed by the contractor on Friday 24 October 2025, the site has been cleared and the lychgate is open for use. A Grant Increase Request to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and supporting evidence was sent to the National Lottery Heritage Fund on 20/10/25. They have extended the end date to 31 December 2025. This will be reviewed by the Head of Investment for Midlands and East at a monthly Delegated Grants Panel. Next steps: The final invoice has been submitted to the Heritage Fund. The outcome of the request for additional funding will not be known until the end of November/ beginning of December.  (Agenda item.)

 

Other Council Business:

 

Council Business

Co-option – NKDC has advised that no valid requests for an election have been made, and Council can now co-opt to fill the vacancy following the resignation of Cllr Cotter.

• Following co-option on 14 October 2025, Cllr Sheldon’s Register of Interests has been sent to NKDC as required and Cllr Sheldon will be attending the New Councillor training in November.

• An applicant for co-option has observed the ordinary meeting on 14 October 2025 and has met with the Clerk and Cllr Cox.  (Agenda item.)

Estate Management and Planning

Office Units – At the time of the meeting only one office (Office 2) remains available. Mundy’s and Council are advertising this.

• The Caretakers have erected planters and a privacy screen to separate /screen the bins from the path to the rear patio doors. This also prevents a view of the bins from Office 1.

• Office broadband - Tenants of the office units are asking about broadband provision - one tenant must have tried to obtain this, as Council has received notification from BT that someone was taking over its account and they were sad to see us go!! The RFO has corrected them. Broadband to office 1 is being installed on Friday 14/11/2025 by the tenant.

Lychgate Renovation – Please see Min ref 22, above. 

Pavilion planning application – NKDC has approved the planning application for change of use to include a cafe and overflow car park. Next steps - The architect has been asked to draw the building renovation plans and to submit these to NKDC and hoped to complete this during the first week of November. A structural engineer will be assessing the load bearing walls in November, if their workload allows.

Public toilets – The Buildings Caretaker has a copy of the remedial works/ recommendations from the Legionella Risk assessment and report. (Most of these are routinely carried out such as flushing and purging.)

War Memorial - The Clerk has requested four quotes for the maintenance of the war memorial in Sleaford Road cemetery (cleaning, moss treating, re-lettering the names as required.) The work is required, and the quotes will inform the budget for FY 2026-2027. The best time of year to undertake the work is spring as the stone needs to be dry after cleaning before it can be enamelled/painted. The Buildings Caretaker has advised that they may be able to complete the cleaning, moss removal and re-painting of the lettering. (EMP Cttee - next meeting agenda.)

Recreation & Environment

Allotments –The policy and agreement from 1 October 2026-2027 still requires review approval and will need to be sent out as soon as possible. The RFO has undertaken a consultation with the allotment holders regarding the possibility of a bee hive on an allotment. (Agenda item).

Community Garden – A bag of daffodil and tulip bulbs donated by a resident have been planted under the trees in the community garden.

Community litter pick – Cllr Tomlinson led the litter pick on Saturday 25 October 2025 (10am to 12noon).  The date for the next litter pick is to be arranged. (Agenda item.)

Garden of Remembrance – The work to ensure the accessibility of the path has been completed - small pieces of grid have been inserted in the any gaps in the path to improve safety.

• Grass seed has been sown in an area disturbed by the improvements to the path. This has been temporarily fenced off.
• In preparation for the Remembrance Sunday service, the Environment Caretaker has cut the grass, cleared the shelter, removed the old wreaths (currently stored in the community shed), and cleared the leaves, and removed some pieces of wood that had been left. 

Horseshoe Hollow – Tree work will take place over winter 2025/2026. The new entrance gates will be a project for spring 2026.

Litter / dog fouling – The children’s anti-littering posters have been erected at the playing fields, MUGA at Parkfield, beside the bench in Horseshoe Hollow, along the High Street /beside the Beck and along Millview/Northfield Road.

Pavilion - Users of the pavilion have tidied the pavilion following a complaint about the condition the building had been left in. A new toilet seat has been installed by the Building’s Caretaker.

Waste and dog poo bin for Flaxwell Fields – The exact location of the bin was approved by NKDC and the developer on 27/10/2025. This will be installed by the caretakers.

Parkfield playing fields – The two self-closing gates have been delivered and are to be installed as a matter of priority.

Tomlinson Way / Whitehouse Road footbridge: No update on the bridge’s ownership or repair is known.

Trees – The Environment Caretaker will undertake tree work in the cemetery, closed churchyard and Horseshoe Hollow during November 2025 to the end of February 2026. 

Winchelsea Centre – At the request of the Church the Environment Caretaker cut the hedge between the Winchelsea Centre and the Parish Office on 20 October 2025. No further action is required.

Events – The inaugural meeting of the Events Committee was held on 7 November 2025.

Christmas 2025 – Christmas trees were ordered on 24/10/2025 for delivery on 26/11/2025. The caretakers will undertake bracket inspection before the trees are erected at the beginning of December.  

 

Staff Matters –The Clerk is awaited feedback from her appraisal.

 

Training and attendance at events.

• The Clerk attended (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health) Safety training (Safety for Executives & Directors) on 14 October 2024 at Welbourne village hall.
• The Clerk and Cllr Harrison attended a free “Martyn’s Law” webinar on 21 October 2025.
• The Clerk attended Managing Difficult Situations (via Zoom) on 23 October 2025.
• The RFO attended the Town and Parish Forum organised by NKDC on 6 November 2025.
• The Clerk and RFO will be attending the Clerk’s networking day at Bracebridge Heath on Thursday 20 November 2025.
• Information on Environmental, climate change and biodiversity training has been shared with the RE Committee. The Environment Caretaker will be attending this.

 

Village Hall – Correspondence regarding the requirement for an emergency pathway has been received and investigated. (Agenda item).

 

 

Meetings held and upcoming:

 

Committee meetings held:

• 20 October 2025 HR Committee meeting.
• 7 November 2025 – Events Committee (first meeting)

 

Dates for upcoming scheduled meetings –

 

• Tuesday 25 November 2025 – Finance Committee meeting at 6.30pm at the Parish Office.
• Tuesday 2 December 2025 – Recreation & Environment Committee meeting at the Parish Office at 6.30pm
• Tuesday 3 December 2025 – Estate Management & Planning Committee meeting at the Parish Office at 6.30pm.
• Tuesday 9 December 2025 - Council meeting at 7pm at the Winchelsea Centre.