February 26
Sturton by Stow Parish Council met on Wednesday 4h February 2026 in the Old Schoolroom. The meeting starting at 7.30pm.
Meeting Chaired by Cllr Cook
Minutes recorded by S. Hoyland - Parish Clerk
Present: Cllr S Christie, Cllr C Christie, Cllr Hawke, Cllr Capuano and 3 members of the public
Absent: Cllr Holtby
Cllr Cook welcomed everybody to the February 2026 Parish Council meeting.
314. To receive and accept apologies where valid reasons for absence have been given to the Parish Clerk prior to the meeting.
It was noted that apologies had been received from Cllr Holtby. It was agreed and RESOLVED that apologies for absence were accepted and noted along with best wishes for a speedy recovery.
It was mentioned that Cllr Mullally had sent apologies for her late arrival and was expected to join the meeting shortly.
315. To receive declarations of interest under the Localism Act 2011 – being any pecuniary or non-pecuniary interest in agenda items not previously recorded on Members’ Register of Interests.
None
316. To discuss updates from Anglian Water public meeting and agree action.
The Chairman highlighted that in his opinion the roads seem to have coped with the recent rainfall better than before. He noted that ditches on the High Street and Stow Road had been cleaned out, highways have been jetting drains and AW have been investigating pipework.
However, he was aware that a sewage non-return valve on a property on Stow Road continues to be shutting and activating high alert. A Dyno Rod sub-contractor of AW has performed a camera survey of the private sewer that serves this property and the immediate neighbours, taking their foul water East to the point where it joins the main sewer line. The sub-contractor declares it clear, and his opinion is that the flow from the main sewer is not feeding correctly into the sister line serving the developments on Old Rectory Gardens, thus backing up, he provided the resident with a drawing showing the drainage pipework and where they run.
Cllr C Christie suggested that the pipework leading to the bungalow behind should be checked.
Cllr S Christie suggested that the problem could be downstream and a CCTV survey would be of benefit to explore options as an overlapped pipe could be causing a dam when there is a surcharge of water causing it to back up.
Cllr Hawke highlighted that there hasn’t been much rain but it is clear that not much rain is needed for this resident to suffer.
The Chairman suggested that the gradient of the private sewer to the main sewer needs investigating. And highlighted to the council that AW are currently seeking planning permission for a major large-scale investment.
The clerk expanded that an update from Matt Moore (AW) on the 15th January confirmed that AW are currently have their modelling team working on trying to ascertain whether they are able to divert the surface water drain, however this is a combined sewer that will need significant investment. They are currently looking at capacity and broadside infiltration and considering the possible option of running an alternative surface water drainage pipe.
They are currently waiting for consent from the local authorities, who are considering the possibility of granting large scale planning permission.
He also highlighted that he has had concerns from residents asking the same question and has replied to these directly. She noted that Matt Moore had no further updates relating to the repeated CCTV exercise relating to the Ashfield culvert nor any clarification of the process when a homeowner is found to be redirceting surface water into the sewer system.
Correspondence from WLDC Enforcement regarding concern of a property on Stow Road known to be redirecting rain water into the sewer system stated that any re-directing of surface water into a sewer system would require permission from the local water authority (i.e. Anglian Water) and that they would also be responsible for enforcing against homeowners who have done this without authorisation – especially where this may lead to an increased risk of localised flooding. This is not something that would be monitored under the planning / permitted development regime. Any instances of this occurring should also be referred to Lincolnshire County Council as the Lead Local Flood Authority who may also wish to take action against those found to be responsible.
Lastly the clerk updated the council that contact had been made with the Environmental Agency and although none of the questions raised in the letter had been answered, the EA had offered to send a representative to our next community engagement event.
The clerk added that the public are very keen to have a multi-agency meeting to raise their concerns and perhaps this could be entwined with a riparian rights and project groundwater, mentioned later on in the agenda.
She added that Upper Witham Drainage Board have not responded to our letter to establish points of contact and to clarify their respective responsibilities within the Parish.
The clerk informed the council that the notes from the fact-finding meeting and link to the riparian rights information leaflet has been published on social media with a link to the Parish website along with a summary that also appeared in the village newsletter as requested.
317. Public Participation
At 7.38pm the Chairman adjourned the meeting to enable public participation. He introduced Phillipa, a prospective parish councillor and offered her to introduce herself.
Phillipa introduced herself as having lived in the village for 25 years. She is a senior geography SEN teacher in a secondary school in Lincoln. In addition to this she is a trustee for a charity in Lincoln and have been for over 15 years. Prior to teaching Phillipa was a flooding engineer.
The Chairman thanked Phillipa and explained that a Parish Councillor application form had been prepared for her to complete and return to the Council. If she remained happy to join the Parish Council, an agenda item would be included for her formal co-option at the next meeting.
No other public wished to speak
The meeting was closed to the public at 7.40pm
318. To approve minutes of previous meeting in January 2026 and authorise the Chairman to sign
It was noted that agenda item 299 second paragraph reads “Cllr C Christie queried if the clerk has any further information regarding the maintenance of a hedge on Fleets Road which is overgrown” it was noted that it is a tree that is overgrown not a hedge as stated in the draft minutes.
It was agreed and RESOLVED to reference the amendment of hedge to tree and approve the January 2026 minutes as presented and authorise the Chairman to sign as a true record.
319. To receive the Clerks Report
The Clerks report can be viewed as Appendix A.
Cllr S Christie queried the fix my street report for the overgrown tree on Fleets Road and issued the clerk with some suggested wording to re-report the issue, as the overgrown conifer is blocking out the lights from the streetlights causing a dark patch. Clerk to re report.
The clerk stated that that the letter regarding the sheeted over car at The Glebe was not posted as the car had been removed. Though she stated that parking concerns around The Glebe still pose an issue and there is an agenda item to discuss this further and agree action.
Cllrs queried the agreed wet pour maintenance to take place in the village hall playpark. The clerk informed the councillors that she has spoken to the contractor who is waiting for a dryer day to carry out the maintenance.
320. Correspondence received.
The clerk stated that the outstanding playpark inspection report from the previous month had been completed and circulated. The clerk noted that she had updated the councillors on the updates from WLDC enforcement, AW, EA and IDB. Clerk to circulate the recent monthly Play Park inspection report and there is a copy of the clerk and council direct.
All other correspondence has been received electronically.
The clerk shared with the council that the volunteer who carries out the monthly playpark inspections and reviews the Community Emergency Plan is stepping down from the role. The volunteer has offered to train up a replacement ready for his departure. The Chairman stated that his assistance to the Parish Council will be greatly missed.
The clerk suggested that perhaps Cllr S Christie could replace the volunteer on the CEP in coincide with his Red Cross experience alongside Cllr C Christie and that the handyman could be an option for inspecting the playparks as any maintenance required is usually carried out my him.
The Chairman suggested to advertise for an understudy to support the existing volunteer while being trained and to eventually take charge of the role. Clerk to advertise both voluntary roles.
321. Planning Applications (Any applications up to the date of the meeting)
WL/2025/01081- Moor Farm- Tillbridge Lane- Planning application for erection of a part single-storey, part two-storey side extension, along with associated external alterations and landscaping.
It was agreed and RESOLVED to submit a general observation of no comment on the planning application.
WL/2026/00107 – Land adjacent to The Hollies- 23 Fleets Road- Planning application for change of use of agricultural land to residential garden.
It was agreed and RESOLVED to submit a general observation of no comment on the planning application.
WL/2026/000 45 Saxilby Road-Planning application for proposed first floor extension to front of existing dwelling.
It was agreed and RESOLVED to submit a general observation of no comment on the planning application.
322.Planning Granted (Any applications up to the date of the meeting)
WL/2025/01142 – 21 Marton Road- Planning application for proposed rear extension to convert existing balcony to larger bedroom, proposed front single storey extension to link dwelling to existing detached garage, and proposed boundary wall construction with access gates.
323. Other planning matters.
None
324. To acknowledge and agree increased charges to the Unity Bank account to £7
It was agreed and RESOLVED to acknowledge the increased monthly bank fee for the Current Account to £7.
325. Accounts: Online payments to be authorised
a) Pre-Authorised Payments agreed
i) Salaries-Clerk and expenses/litter picker/OSR Cleaner/Handy-man/PAYE
ii) The Pelican Trust- £124 no VAT
b) Payments to be agreed: None
c) Direct Debits paid
Multidata- Contract Ceased £78.00
British Gas OSR –£27.51 including VAT
British Gas Village Green- £22.69 including VAT
ID Mobile- Phone Contract- £8.00
Wave- £51.54
Charge Card- (£58.69) including £3 Charge fee. £13.49 HP Ink Subscription Bookers- Supplies for Warm Space £22.52, Coop – Supplies for Warm Space £1.45, Tesco Cleaning Supplies £5.75, B&M Cleaning Supplies £5.49, Amazon- Mop £6.99
d) Bank Fees
Multi Charge Card monthly charge £3 included within charge card total
Monthly Bank Account Fee £6
e) Monies Received
Multidata reimbursement December - £68.42
Multidata reimbursement- Contract Ceased- £78.00
Village Hall Ground Rent £1
N-U-C/A £8,380.51 N-U-D/A £1,964.26 N-U-S/A £27,834.54
At 8.15pm Cllr Mullally joined the meeting.
326. To approve the February 2026 accounts (circulated)
It was noted that the bank account charge will increase from the end of March. The Multidata contract has been ceased as instructed with the final invoice has been paid and reimbursed along with the outstanding reimbursement from last month. The final figures from the use of the Village Green electric over the Christmas period matched the readings from the smart meter. The interest rates of the saving account and deposit account are being reduced on 23rd March, and the peppercorn rate has been received from the village hall.
It was agreed and RESOLVED to accept the February 2026 accounts
At 8.16pm The Chairman paused the meeting to welcome Cllr Mullally and asked if she has any updates for the councillors.
Cllr Mullally expressed that she has been actively supporting residents impacted by flooding and has reached out to Cllr Wimhurst in an effort to engage and to secure additional assistance and resources. She had attended a positive meeting with Scampton holdings looking at a more positive future for RAF Scampton.
The Chairman that the council had been discussing the impact of flooding on a property on Stow Road.
Cllr C Christie suggested that the pipework coming from the property behind could be causing the problem and should be checked.
Cllr Mullally informed the council that the homeowners of the property behind have been most helpful with investigations.
The Chairman suggested the gradient could be causing the issue and perhaps an option could be to excavate where the connection would be beneficial.
Cllr Mullally confirmed that all avenues are being explored to try and resolve the problem.
She added that on 2nd February, West Lindsey District Council hosted an information session on the Local Government Reorganisation for Parish and Town Councils, where they shared the latest updates on the process and timelines.
The Chairman reiterated that he also attended the session and information will be circulated via email. He summarised that the Government announced its plans of a government re-organisation which essentially wipes out the District Councils and this is replaced with a unitary local authority. There are four proposals and there is a consultation and further briefings to come. He added that the greater Lincolnshire Devolution is within hope to transfer central government powers and funding to local areas governed by an elected Mayor with powers over transport, housing and economic development.
The Chairman thanked Cllr Mullally for her input and resumed the meeting at 8.25pm.
327. To agree the monthly reserves summary sheet (circulated)
It was noted that the £200 reserve for the warm space fund has been added to the summary sheet so it can be tracked as spent. The goods donated had been greatly received by the residents accessing the warm space.
It was agreed and RESOLVED to accept the monthly reserves summary sheet.
328. To agree bank reconciliation.
It was agreed and RESOLVED to accept the hard copy bank reconciliation provided by Cllr S Christie and the electronic bank reconciliation produced by the Clerk on the account summary sheet.
329. To discuss and agree options for maturing bond for February 2026 and accumulated interest
It was agreed and RESOLVED to re-invest the capital £25,000 and accumulated interest £537.62 S106 monies into a 1-year bond at 4.11% interest rate. Bank signatories to sign document at the end of the meeting. Clerk to action before the current bond matures.
330. To consider and agree the repetition of the riparian rights event.
The Clerk reported that some residents had expressed interest in repeating the Riparian Rights event, potentially incorporating multiple agencies to provide an opportunity for questions.
Councillors discussed that those individuals whose attendance would be most beneficial in achieving meaningful change have historically not attended such events, particularly where potential maintenance liabilities and associated costs may rest with the landowner.
The Chairman reiterated that, under common law, responsibility for a watercourse rest with the landowner unless property deeds explicitly state otherwise.
It was further noted that attendance at the previous event had been limited, despite significant time and effort invested in promoting riparian responsibilities. Although answers had been obtained from Anglian Water (AW), Councillors were not convinced that holding a further multi-agency or riparian rights meeting at this stage would provide additional benefit to residents or generate new information, as the agencies previously consulted had clearly outlined their respective roles and responsibilities.
It was agreed and RESOLVED that the Riparian Rights event is not repeated at this time, and that instead an information campaign be delivered via the Council newsletter to raise awareness more effectively.
331. To consider and agree details of order to a value not exceeding £150 cost to the PC of new Christmas Lights
The clerk had circulated the website where Stow PC had bought their new xmas lights from. Clerk to ask the Stow Clerk if they have access to a product code. Cllr Mullally offered £75 towards the costs via her Councillor Initiative Funding. It was agreed and RESOLVED to purchase new lights to a value not exceeding £150 cost to the PC and that Cllr Capuano and Cllr Cook will work together to source the new lights and circulate prior to purchase.
332. To agree to seek quotes for a professional tree safety managements survey for the Ash tree on Ashfield and the Sycamore on The Glebe.
Correspondence via email has confirmed that the contractor has the appropriate qualifications required to carry out the tree safety management survey. It was agreed and RESOLVED for the clerk to acquire a quote for the next meeting.
333. To agree and submit suitable sites for new development for the Central Lincolnshire Local Plan Review, showing where development would be supported in relation to the Neighbourhood Plan.
It was noted that the survey requires a lot of information such as the owner of the land and does not seem appropriate for third parties. Cllr Hawke to assist the clerk with filling out the survey.
It was discussed that, aside from the areas identified on page 94 of the Neighbourhood Plan, the Parish Council would only support development on existing brownfield sites, for example the LCC depot when it ceases operations.
It was agreed and RESOLVED submit developments as per the Sturton by Stow and Stow Neighbourhood Plan 2019-2036, Minor Modifications Review July 2024- Appendix C pages 94-96 plus the additional brownfield site.
1. Land at High Street (aka Bradshaw’s yard) ref. WL/STUR/003
2. Land south of Gilbert’s Barn ref. WL/STUR/006A
3. Land at LCC Highways depot, Tillbridge Lane (not previously identified in our NP).
334. To agree positions for new Speed Indictor Devices.
It was noted that Cllr Cook, Cllr S Christie and Cllr Hawke had attending a site meeting with Graeme Butler from the Community Speed Watch team at the Lincolnshire Road Safety Partnership Team. These locations have been chosen to install Solar Speed Indicator Devices to aid traffic calming of motorists passing the original mains 30 devices as they gear up to leave the village, often reaching excessive speeds and overtaking in the 30mph. To benefit the solar power all year round the positions that are proposed have no tree cover and the councillors were mindful to select positions that would cause as little nuisance as possible to nearside properties.
Four locations were discussed.
- A1500 Tillbridge Rd. New site almost opposite Lakeside and near to Public Footpath sign. Location can be used in either direction.
- A1500, Site next to Stretton Close just in front of lamp column. Location can be used in either direction.
- B1241 Stow Rd, adjacent to the Primary School site. Location can be used in either direction.
- B1241 Saxilby Rd. Site opposite bus shelter adjacent to the garden of No 50. Location can be used in either direction.
Where possible the devices were to be installed on opposite sides of the road to the current ones to catch the traffic in the other directions, though we have been informed that the devices are able to be rotated on the pole.
As discussed at a previous meeting the solar type units need to be erected onto dedicated posts due to overall size and weight. These can be sourced and installed by Highways at a cost of £200 each.
Rotating the signs is quite easy, though Graeme has advised that moving the whole unit can be cumbersome. The PC may need assistance when re locating the device to a different location.
It is advised that all four poles are installed at the same time. Timescales for the posts would be about 80 days as they are classed as Routine works rather than urgent. The Chairman added that data retrieved from the devices will show how many times they have been triggered, this data can be used to support requests for traffic calming measures, which in the past have been declined due to not meeting the criteria.
The clerk informed the council that she has been liaising with the grant departing at WLDC. It is likely the Communities Facilities Fund will reopen in May/ June. Though the Councillor Initiative Fund can fund up to £1,000, if available.
It was agreed and RESOLVED to accept the four locations and to be put on the waiting list to have the poles installed. Clerk to add costs to the next agenda to be agreed formally. It was noted that the council is under budget nearing the end of year so the funds required could be absorbed from other reserves if a grant was not available.
335. To receive a progress report from the project walking leaflet sub-committee (if required)
The Chairman informed the council that there was little to report, and the working party were meeting with the cartographer after the meeting for an update.
336. To agree to opt-in to Project Groundwater Greater Lincolnshire
As part of a new campaign to empower communities in times of flooding, Project Groundwater Greater Lincolnshire (PGGL) hosted by Lincolnshire County Council (LCC) are installing telemetry devices in watercourses across affected villages.
These devices measure the water levels all year round in ordinary watercourses throughout the selected villages and are linked to an online dashboard which shows their location, condition, and the level of the water that is being monitored with an update being read every 15 minutes.
Two alert levels have been added to the online system, one to inform when the water has reached a predetermined level and another when the water has exceeded its maximum capacity. These alert levels can send out a notification once triggered via SMS or email to inform residents that flooding is possible. That is not to say that a flooding event will definitely occur, it is more to give an alert that potentially it could.
Our village has been one of the ones selected for installation. The Chairman attended an online dashboard tutorial session to learn about these devices, their locations and how to sign up to the alert system. We currently have a meter installed in the Ashfield Culvert.
The Chairman announced that if agreed to opt in the Clerk will put the basic contact details for all councillors onto the onboarding list, so that she can return it within the given deadline of 6th. February.
This will then trigger an invitation email, which must be reacted to within 48 hours, to be put onto the alert list. Those registered will receive a test alert on 27th. February, during office hours.
The invitation email, once responded to, will trigger the provision of access to the web-based portal, and an introductory video; 20 minutes into that video is specific information about the thresholds that have been set.
Following the onboarding process for the community leads PGGL would then look to invite our residents that have shown particular interest in flooding issues should also be invited to be included on our village registration form. It is strongly encouraged that any residents who have previously experienced flooding and/or have had property flood resilient measures installed to sign up to the alerts.
As a Parish Council we can request that monitors are added or locations are changed- The monitors have a life span of 10 years and have a maintenance contract. It was agreed and RESOLVED to opt in to PGGL and for the clerk to sign up the councillors to the onboarding process.
337. To agree further visual improvements and maintenance to the village green electricity box
Thanks were sent to the clerk’s husband for fixing the hinges on the electric box. Further visual improvements were discussed; to paint the electric box black in line with the other street furniture on the village green and two lay two slabs in front of the door. Cllr S Christie suggested that funds be covered within the village green project budget. It was agreed and RESOLVED to instruct the handyman to lay two 2ft square slabs like that of the bench in the village hall playpark and to paint the box black.
338. To discuss parking concerns around The Glebe and agree next steps
It was noted that whilst the sheeted car has been moved a resident continues to park vehicles in the turning point which is intended for emergency vehicles.
It was discussed that parking in general seems to be an issue around this area which vehicles parking and driving on the open space and over the pavements. The vehicles are obstructing the footway causing pedestrians with pushchairs and dogs having to walk into the road. Multiple vehicles with staggered parking would make it impossible for emergency vehicles to get through.
The Chairman noted that irresponsible parking is a village wide issue and suggested an information campaign in the next newsletter highlighting the implications of irresponsible parking.
It was reported that vegetation is encroaching onto the pavement on the right-hand bend of The Glebe making the area slippery underfoot needed reporting on Fix My Street.
At 9.24pm two members of public left.
339. To agree a consolidated response to the National Highways and Transport Survey
It was agreed and RESOLVED to be more appropriate for the councillors to individually fill out the survey before the deadline on the 28th of February.
340. Reports from local organisation.
Jubilee Wood- Cllr Hawke informed the council that the January work party has been cancelled due to bad weather but a further two are scheduled for 8th February and the 1st March.
The Clerk mentioned that a volunteer is happy to lend his triple ladders or a forklift alternative to reach the damaged owl box if the council was happy for Cllr Hawke to retrieve the box. The Chairman stated that he had full confidence in Cllr Hawkes’ competence. Cllr Hawke stated that the ladders are the preferable option as the ground condition is too wet for the heavy machinery.
Clerk to arrange for the volunteer to meet on site at the February work party.
The clerk noted that there were no further reports from any local organisations though the invites for the Annual Parish Meeting would be sent out in March.
Cllr C Christie suggested that the councils’ employees were invited to join the APM along with the local organisations so that they councillors could familiarise themselves with them. The Council agreed that this would be a lovely opportunity to meet employees.
341. General maintenance in the Parish
- Cllr Hawke highlighted that a streetlight between Stretton Close and Village Farm Close was not working.
- Fix my Street highlighted earlier in the meeting for encroachment of vegetation on the path at The Glebe and the tree on Fleets Road.
- The clerk has noticed damp in the Bransby and Old Rectory notice boards- Clerk to report to the handyman and purchase new damp collectors.
- A resident from Old Rectory Gardens notified the clerk that the Asphalt surface surrounding the open space has become slippery. The clerk advised that the resident reports the concern on Fix my Street with photos emphasising health and safety and a slippy surface.
- The damaged watercourse barrier on the entrance to Bransby village has been reported yet remains damaged, clerk to re report.
- A resident highlighted concern for vehicles parking on the grass opposite Millers Court, Saxilby Road. There are large gaps in between the bollards which vehicles drive through and park. Between the last bollard and the beginning of the layby there is an even bigger gap which vehicles drive through and then down the verge churning up the grass as they go. The residents concern that not only does it look a mess, but dog walkers may also refrain from walking on the mud pit to access the dog bin. This issue was reported last year, and the response was that maintenance could not take place in that financial year due to budget. Clerk to re report.
- The Clerk enquired about the suggestions for an alternative power source on the green that her husband has volunteered to help with. The Chairman noted that councillors installing the Christmas tree had discussed a power outlet- 3 pin plug to sit in a waterproof box within the flagpole hole would be beneficial for the new set of lights.
342. Items to be noted for the next meeting.
The clerk queried when the council would like to begin tendering for the village hedge contract. Cllr S Christie suggested June.
Cllr Hawke requested for the clerk to contact Mr Timmins and asks when he plans to cut the Jubilee Wood hedge.
Clerk Appraisal due February- Cllr Hawke and Cllr Capuano volunteered from the HR Committee to carry out the clerks’ appraisal.
Handyman appraisal due for March
Costs of SID poles to be agreed
Invites for APM
Community Emergency Plan Review
Tree Safety Management survey quote
Advertise for Community Volunteer
At 9.35pm Cllr Mullally left the meeting
343. To resolve to move into closed session in accordance with the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 for the following items on the grounds that publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest by reason of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted. If agreed press and public will be asked to leave.
At 9.37pm it was agreed and RESOLVED to go into closed session, and the remaining resident was thanked for their attendance and left.
344. Clerk to report staff appraisals
The Clerk shared the report from the Litter pickers appraisal. The litter picker fulfils her role and keeps the village looking presentable. It was noted that a longer litter picker would be beneficial to help maintain good posture. Litter picker is going to liaise with the school for another litter picking session. It was noted that the litter picker had been equipped with a small sharps box as a preventative measure. Together the litter picker and clerk had discussed how to use it safely by using the litter picker and it was to be used a last resort if a sharp was located in an area where it would not be safe to leave and report to Fix My Street.
The Clerk shared the report from the OSR Cleaners’ appraisal. The OSR cleaner fulfils her role and the OSR always looks clean and presentable. The OSR Cleaner has identified noticeable hairline cracks in the walls of the building and regularly checks for damp. She confirmed the marks in the cleaner’s cupboard were as a result of the leak last year. She is aware that the post office no longer hires the OSR and suggested readvertising that the building is available for hire. The clerk highlighted that kitchen facilities may make the hire more appealing and questioned purchasing a kettle. The Clerk queried PAT testing for equipment in the OSR. The council highlighted that it was not required for such few appliances. Councillors informed the clerk that cups, saucers and a kettle used to be available but were never used.
Cllr C Christie mentioned that the hydrangea at the back of the OSR does need cutting back to the edge of the trellis. As this will not help with damp. Clerk to notify resident.
Meeting Closed at 9.50pm