Transparency Code

Local Government Transparency Code (2015)

The Local Government Transparency Code (2015) was established to give residents more control and make local decision-making more transparent. This enables residents to participate in local decisions and contribute to the improvement of public services. Personal information that violates the Data Protection Act 2018 will not be disclosed.

The information provided below is published in accordance with this code. If you have any questions or believe something is missing, please contact the Parish Council. Additional financial details can be found in the Annual Reports and Accounts.

The "constitution" (Standing Orders and Financial Regulations) is available on the Policies page of this website.

The following items, required by the Code, are not included as they do not apply to this authority:

• Government Procurement card transactions
• Social Housing Asset value
• Organisation chart of staff
• Trade Union facility time
• Parking account
• Parking spaces
• Senior salaries
• Waste contracts

Key Issues Important to Local Residents

At Ruskington Parish Council, we are committed to addressing the concerns of our community. Here are some of the key issues that have been brought to our attention:

Flooding

Flooding remains a significant concern, particularly on Manor Street and High Street South. 

Speeding and Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs)

Speeding on the B1188 (Sleaford Road, Lincoln Road) and Westcliffe Road is a major safety concern. Additionally, the use of Westcliffe Road by HGVs has raised issues regarding noise and road wear. 

Road Conditions

The poor condition of roads, including numerous potholes, is a frequent complaint. 

Parking Issues

Parking on Station Road, especially during school drop-off and pick-up times, causes significant congestion and safety hazards. 

Streetlighting

The lack of streetlighting on Lincoln Road, particularly alongside the Flaxwell Fields housing development, has been highlighted as a safety concern. 

Although Ruskington Parish Council has no powers to deal with these matters directly, it does gather evidence and liaise with partnership agencies such as Lincolnshire County Council, North Kesteven District Council, and the Environment Agency to try to resolve matters and improve the community for residents. On occasion, the Council may signpost residents to the relevant authority, district, or county councillor directly to raise concerns, share information, and receive advice.

We appreciate the community's input on these matters and are dedicated to finding effective solutions. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us create a safer and more pleasant environment for everyone.

Expenditure Over £500

A Council is obliged to publish any expenditure over £500, including supplier and transaction information. Expenditure can be found at the following link.

Officers Decisions Made Under Delegated Powers

The Parish Council will publish details of delegated decisions made in relation to contracts/licences exceeding £15,000.  No such delegated decisions have been made to date.

Contracts and invitations to tender over £25000

Not applicable.

Councillors Allowances and Expenses

The Parish Council pays Councillors travel allowances to official training and meetings.  Details at the link here.

Contracts and Tenders to Businesses and to the Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise Sector

All current and live tenders will be shown here when available.

Grants to the Voluntary Community and Social Enterprise Sector

• At its meeting held on 8 October 2024, Ruskington Parish Council awarded a grant of £250.00 to Ruskington's Short Mat Bowls Club to help cover costs of refreshments and renewal of bowling equipment. 

Policies, Performance, External Audits and Key Inspections and Key Indicators

• Annual Return and Audit 2023-24
• Standing Orders May 2024
• Financial Regulations June 2024
• Complaints Policy
• Members Code Of Conduct Adopted May 2023
• Scheme Of Delegation

The Location of Public Land and Building Assets

Fixed Asset Register

Data of Democratic Running of the Parish Council

The constitution of the Parish Council is known as Standing Orders and lays out how the business of the Council is conducted.

Councillors are governed by the Members Code of Conduct.

Community Infrastructure Levy

Introduced in 2010, the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a tool for local councils to help raise funds from developers to deliver infrastructure such as new schools, open space or public transport. CIL is charged for certain types of development in the area and commenced on 1 August 2015. CIL is received by the Parish Council a year in arrears.

• Community Infrastructure Levy (dates TBC)
• Cil Report 24-25 (awaiting link)