Annual Parish Minutes May 2025
Cherry Willingham Parish Council
The Millennium Hall, 16 High Street, Cherry Willingham, Lincoln LN3 4AQ
Chair of the Council: Cllr Andrew Burge, Clerk: Loo Clinkscales, RFO: Kirsty Sinclair
Present: Cllr A Burge, Clerk & RFO
67 Residents
-
Welcome, introductions and explanation of purpose of meeting.
Cllr A Burge welcomed everyone and explained that he was the only councillor present at the meeting in their official capacity, although the councillors present who are Chairs of committees would be assisting by providing information on the work undertaken by their specific committees.
-
To receive the notes of the Annual Parish Meeting held on the 15th May 2024 and sign them as a true record.
RESOLVED unanimously to sign the minutes from the Annual Parish Meeting held on the 15th of May 2024 as a true record.
-
To award the Stead Award for 2025.
Cllr A Burge awarded this year’s Stead Award to David Rogers. Dave volunteers and helps CWPC and Cherry Fields Committee with hands-on tasks around the village, using his tractor and trailer in transporting and constructing. Dave has served the village with his time and generosity for a number of years. Dave goes above and beyond supporting the Council and our village.
David Rodgers will be presented with the award at a later date when available.
-
A representative from Lincoln Fire and Rescue
A representative attended and provided valuable guidance to the residents on how we can support vulnerable neighbours. Practical advice was shared on steps we can take around our homes to help prevent potential incidents. Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue also offer a free home visit service, including a means-tested assessment for the installation of smoke alarms.
-
An update from Nettleham Medical Practice.
Dr Williams delivered a presentation, supported by a slideshow, outlining the journey of their practice—highlighting past challenges and future aspirations. A comprehensive explanation was provided on the evolving structure and management of practice funding. The team has developed a business plan and strategic objectives for the next 12 months, with the aim of achieving continued improvements in service delivery.
The full presentation is available online via the Nettleham Medical Practice.
-
To receive a report on the Neighbourhood Plan.
Cllr R Houghton provided an update on the progress of CWPC’s Neighbourhood Plan and outlined the current stage of its development. The presentation highlighted the benefits the plan brings to the village, along with the associated costs and long-term rewards. CWPC is presently seeking additional funding to move the project forward. The next stage will involve dividing the work into four focus groups, each focusing on a specific area of the plan
-
Update on the Marina
The developers provided an update on the project's progress, outlining the processes involved and the challenges encountered along the way. The final details are currently being negotiated, with development and construction set to begin in 2026.
Interval
-
To receive a Finance Report from the Responsible Finance Officer for CWPC.
Financial Report: Planned Budget and Expenditure for 2025-26
Budget Overview
The total budget for the financial year 2025-26 is set at £122,086, with a Precept of £105,000. This results in a shortfall of £17,086, which will be covered using available balances.
Budget Allocation
-
Staff Costs: £50,000
-
Governance and Administration: £20,100
-
Play Areas and Playing Field: £11,348
-
Village Improvements: £9,094
-
Cherry Fields: £4,764
-
Millennium Hall: £3,750
-
New Projects: £23,900
New Projects Breakdown
-
New Play Equipment at Parks: £15,000
-
Village Gates: £5,000
-
Grants to Village Groups: £900
This budget reflects a continued investment in community facilities and infrastructure, supporting local initiatives and enhancing public spaces.
PARISH COUNCIL PRECEPT:
For the 2025-26 financial year, the Precept has been set at £105,000, resulting in a Band D Council Tax contribution of £74.29 per year, equivalent to £1.43 per week. This reflects a 1.59% increase from the previous year (2024-25).
Council Tax contributions will vary based on individual circumstances and the designated banding of each property.
NEW BALANCES FOR 2025-26
General Fund
-
£62,574
Earmarked Funds
-
Burial Ground: £37,786
-
Income from Parish Events: £5,973
-
Cherry Fields Grants and Donations: £1,692
-
Community Orchard: £694
-
Community Infrastructure Levy (CILs): £6,692
-
Lady Meers Pond: £9,631
-
Heritage Society: £485
Total Funds
-
£130,534 (an increase of £12,413 compared to the previous year)
These figures highlight the financial growth and continued commitment to community initiatives
-
To receive a report from District & Lincolnshire County Councillors.
Following the recent local elections, significant changes have taken place. Less than a week ago, extensive meetings were held as part of the transition.
As a result of this year's elections, Councillor T. Bridgwood has been elected as the new County Councillor for the Cherry Willingham Ward, representing the Reform Party. Additionally, Andrea Jenkins has been appointed as the first-ever Reform Mayor for Lincolnshire, marking a new chapter in the region's governance.
DCllr M Palmer
West Lindsey marks its 50th year of community service, while Lea Fields Crematorium celebrates five years of operation. Over £85,000 has been raised through the metal recycling scheme, with £11,000 donated to the Air Ambulance.
The West Lindsey Churches Festival enters its 28th year, with 103 churches participating across two weekends (10th–11th and 17th–18th May). Many local churches will be open—details can be found on the West Lindsey website.
By next April, household food waste collections will be introduced, adding a bin and an indoor food caddy. Final arrangements are still pending, though commercial food waste collection has already commenced.
The recent election of a Mayor for Greater Lincolnshire will significantly impact West Lindsey under the Government's devolution bill. The district’s future structure remains uncertain, with plans to replace District Councillors with Unitary Councillors. At a West Lindsey meeting, two interim proposals—options A and E—were discussed, with nine other districts set to submit their own plans. If consensus is not reached, Central Government will make the final decision, though the timeline is currently unknown.
-
A presentation from Witham Valley Access Group.
Two representatives delivered a presentation outlining their work and aspirations, focusing on improving accessibility and enhancing walking surfaces. Their aim is to develop new walking routes while connecting surrounding villages and local landmarks to create a more cohesive and accessible network.
-
To receive a report from the Chair of Cherry Willingham Parish Council.
Cllr A. Burge provided a brief overview of CWPC's ongoing and upcoming projects.
Cherry Fields was awarded the Lincolnshire Environmental Award at the end of 2024. Cllr Burge expressed gratitude to all volunteers who contribute to the site's success.
The Leisure and Amenities Committee continues to work diligently in maintaining the play parks and developing St Paul’s Play Park, with new equipment pending installation. The committee recently secured a grant for a zip wire to be installed at St Paul’s Play Park.
The Events and Fundraising Committee is now fully established, organising regular events to be held annually. The following events are scheduled for this year:
-
Fun Dog Show – 7th June 2025
-
Village Gala – 2nd August 2025
-
Light Switch-On – 29th November 2025
-
Christmas Quiz – 13th December 2025
Residents are encouraged to share suggestions for additional events that CWPC could consider. Please contact the clerk with any ideas.
-
Any other questions and comments from residents concerning the work of the Parish Council.
Concerns were raised regarding antisocial behavior at St Paul’s Play Park. Cllr A. Burge explained that CWPC is taking all possible measures within its authority and that CCTV is scheduled for installation later this year. Residents were encouraged to report all incidents to the police, as this will help increase patrols within the village.
Other matters and questions were addressed by the speakers as each topic was discussed.
-
Vote of thanks and close.
Meeting Closed 9:25
_________________________________________________ ________________
Signed Date
Cllr Andrew Burge - Chair Of Cherry Willingham Parish Council