IN the absence of the Chairman for the December meeting of Sandford Parish Council, the chair was taken by Vice Chairman, Brian Fyfe.

Items raised in the Open Forum:

a) Meeting with Devon County Council Road Safety Officer

Concern had been expressed by “interested parties” that they had not been invited to this meeting.

The Vice Chairman explained that bearing in the mind the long delay in convening this meeting it had finally been arranged at very short notice.

This had not been a meeting to make any decisions but for James Anstee (DCC Road Safety Officer) to visit Sandford and walk around the areas that were being discussed.

Mr Anstee had been found to be fully versed on the various road safety issues in the village, and had gone away to come up with his suggestions to help resolve matters.

Parishioners would be consulted once these suggestions/proposals had been received.

b) South West Water – On November 15 and 16, 2021 Back Lane had been closed for works to be carried out on the water main. Despite the road being closed for two days the workmen had not arrived until late on the afternoon of the second day meaning that the road had been closed for times when this had not been necessary.

Matters got worse as when work finally commenced, the water main was broken.

This had given rise to the water supply to properties in and around the Square being cut off and a SWW tanker being brought into the Square to supply water.

This had caused interference to trade at the Lamb Inn due to lack of a water supply and also the unnecessary closure of Back Lane for a day-and-a-half when not needed.

The Parish Council agreed to write to SWW registering its concern over this matter and also to DCC Highways pointing out the unnecessary length of the road closure and the need for a sign to be erected advising that “Access to Sandford was being maintained”.

Matters reported to the Clerk - Parking issues and potholes. Also a street light being out of action at the bottom of Rose and Crown Hill, which had been put on a list for attention. There were continued concerns that the cobbled pavement in the Square was still cluttered, meaning pedestrians had to walk in the road.

Crediton Police had sent details, including a note of times and dates of their review of parking obstructions on, and at the top of, Rose and Crown Hill no parking obstructions had been found.

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

Mark Tucker, National Congregational Church Federation, had responded to the enquiry over the future of Sandford Congregational Church.

He wrote: "I note all you say and understand that people do feel nostalgic about the past in situations like this. I note your personal interest as a neighbour in this matter as well so can understand your concern.

"In common with very many small churches in rural or semi rural locations, the Church membership declined over many years.

"I understand the neighbouring Anglican Church is also suffering from similar issues.

"I cannot comment on some of the points you raise until matters have been considered further, but I will, as a courtesy keep you informed of our intentions. In the meantime I send my kind regards and best wishes."

PLANNING

No 1 Gaters Cottage, Sandford - Conversion of threshing barn to residential use incidental to the existing dwelling, erection of a garden room, reduce levels to western side of dwelling, alterations to access steps and erection of car port.

Following a site meeting earlier in the day it was agreed to recommend approval.

Cllr Jim Stephens pointed out that the Threshing barn formed part of Sandford Parish Heritage and for posterity its details needed to be recorded before any works commenced. The applicant, who was present, confirmed that this was already in-hand.

County Councillor, Mrs Margaret Squires gave some updates: Road surface at Lodge Corner and Pond Corner – She had visited these locations with Steve Tucker (DCC Highways) who had been appraised of the road safety issues being caused.

There was still a problem over a blocked drain at New Buildings.

The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee 2022 – Parish Celebrations would be discussed in the New Year. It was understood that the New Buildings Beacon would be lit for the occasion.

MJV