Annual Parish Meeting 2024

Minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting of Bracebridge Heath held on Thursday 7th March 2024 at 7pm at The Heath: Village Hall & Library

Present: Cllr Callan chaired the meeting. Clerk to Council Mrs S Knowles & Deputy Clerk to Council Mrs R Fraser were in attendance.

18 members of the public were present.

The chairman welcomed everyone to the meeting.

1. To confirm the minutes of the previous meeting – 22nd May 2023 - The minutes of the Annual Parish Meeting, held on Monday 22nd May 2023 were accepted as a true record and signed by the chairman.

The order of business was altered reports from village organisation to be heard first

2. To note reports from village organisations – A short report was given by newly appointed Headteacher, Mrs Jefferson. Mrs Jefferson noted the recent Ofsted inspection judging the school as ‘Good’, joining the Priory Federation of Academies Trust and the school’s desire to engage more with the local community.

PCSO Matt Roberts gave a report on local policing in the area, connections with local parishes and the difficulties faced with the reduction in neighbourhood policing staff.

3. To receive a report from the Chairman of the Parish Council – A written report had been submitted by Cllr Callan and shared within the council’s annual report.  An overview of Council activities was given. In particular, the Chairman thanked Council members, staff and the community for their contributions over the last year.

4. To receive a report from Lincolnshire County Councillor – Cllr Cawrey reported on:

• The conclusion of the consultation regarding Lincolnshire devolution.
• The Lincolnshire County Council’s annual budget which was to increase by 5%.
• Repair works to footpaths on the older estates in Bracebridge Heath had been agreed, no date confirmed.
• Thank you to the Parish Council for their work on transforming The Heath: Village Hall and Library.

An update was requested on the provision of broadband for the relocated Library. This had been passed on to officers at Lincolnshire County Council

A question was asked about funding for anti-social behaviour. Cllr Cawrey noted that an update was due on this shortly and was with a separate portfolio holder.

5. To receive reports from District Councillors – Cllr Burley reported on:

• the adoption of the revised Central Lincolnshire Local Plan and the requirement to check that Neighbourhood Plans do not conflict with the new document.
• Fosse Green Energy solar farm proposals.
• NKDC’s desire to achieve net carbon zero.
• Sleaford Market Plan and pedestrianisation

The clerk, on behalf of Bracebridge Heath Parish Council, thanked North Kesteven District Council for their investment in Bracebridge Heath, in providing a loan to complete refurbishment work at The Heath and to relocate the library.

6. To note reports from village organisations – A verbal report was given by the U3A detailing the 26 groups available for their members to join.

7. Questions or points raised by residents and members of the public – No questions or comments.

The meeting closed at 19:54.

Signed_________________________________Chairman