Parish Council's monthly
3 Views News Article.
3 Views News Article.
October 2023
It was with great sadness we began the meeting with a short silence to mark the passing of Richard Dyason who joined ODAPC in 2015 and remained on the council until August 2023 when ill health finally forced him to stand down.
Richard was a great character, had a wealth of knowledge and experience and took on all challenges with never failing enthusiasm. I know I am not alone in saying he will be much missed.
On a happier note, I hope you have been able to take advantage of the exceptional weather we have been having recently. The council had a ‘stall’ at the Apple Day last Sunday at the Community Orchard and it was lovely to see so many taking advantage of the sunshine and also to see people from Oakthorpe and Acresford and not just Donisthorpe residents. It feels as if we are really starting to become ‘a parish’ and not three separate villages.
One thing that was mentioned often at the Apple Day was the increase lately of dog fouling, especially in the Community Orchard but throughout the parish in general. ODAPC are looking into initiatives to address this rise but would like to remind everyone, not just dog owners, that not picking up your dog’s mess is an offence. Most areas of the parish are not far from a litter bin, used poo bags can be put in any of these (except the private one outside Donisthorpe Corner Shop) Even if it involves a slight ‘detour’ to your walk or carrying your pet’s waste a short distance please use these, some of ODAPC expenditure goes towards emptying these litter bins.
We had a visit this meeting from a representative of ‘The British Heart Foundation’ who is going to work with us to look at the distribution of defibrillators in the parish and getting some funding towards covering the shortfalls. Watch out for further developments.
The council have purchased another 6,000 spring bulbs which will be planted by community groups and volunteers over the next month on verges and green areas where we have permission to do so. The parish entrance planters will also be planted up with winter plants during the next month. Our tree specialist is also being asked to ‘lop’ some over tall trees in Oakthorpe Play Area and remove one tree to make room for the new play equipment and a tree which is dying (it looks like it has been ‘tampered’ with, if anyone knows anything about this we would like to know too)
Over the last few months there have been a number of ‘surprise’ road closures in the area. Most of these were planned well in advance but usually the first we motorists know about them is when we get to the diversion signs. If road closures do affect your everyday travel it is worth checking the LCC website on a regular basis. (Emergency roadworks can be found on www.one.network)
As usual these are just a few of the issues discussed. If you would like to read the full minutes they will be available on the ODAPC website and on the ODAPC Parish noticeboards. Our next full council meeting will be on November 8th 2023, 7pm ME Sports (formerly Oakthorpe Community Leisure Centre) Oakthorpe
Councillor Debbie Warren
September 2023
The Parish Council met on Wednesday 13th following the Summer break, it is with regret that during the break Cllr Richard Dyason took the difficult decision to stand down and we extend our thanks to him for the years of service he offered to the council. This however left us with a vacancy, due to this being an election year it meant we needed to advertise the rights for electors to request a new election. This was not required, and we therefore offered the vacancy for co-option.
It is with great pleasure that the council co-opted Mrs Tina Hawke to the council and she joined us for the meeting, we extend a warm welcome to Tina who lives in Donisthorpe and brings with her a wealth of experience.
It was lovely to see parishioners attend the meeting, we always love to hear from the parish, we also welcomed Cllr Mike Ball who represents the parish on the District Council and Cllr Robert Ashman who represents the parish on the County Council.
The Friends of ODA Memorial Gardens attended the meeting to update on progress, you will of course have noticed that the Pit Wheel has been removed, it is being sand blasted and re painted and will return to the gardens in a new position, the project will see a fantastic community asset redeveloped to provide a great open space for everyone to enjoy for years to come.
The Parish Council is proud to support community initiatives and regularly provides donations to events that happen within the parish, recently donating the to Donisthorpe Field day, funding the Pit Wheel removal and refurbishment, funding is also ear marked to assist with placing speed awareness banners in the parish, planters and plants at the entrances to the villages & yearly funding to the Three Views News to ensure this also continues. The council has a list of projects that they wish to carry out and continue to review this to ensure we capture everything that you as parishioners want to see.
Please keep an eye out for the Parish Questionnaire we have received a couple of responses, but we would love to see more allowing us to work on the areas that you want, the closing date for this will be FRIDAY 20th OCTOBER
The council would like to thank all of the volunteers who recently completed the Community Speedwatch in Donisthorpe the results of which were extremely interesting allowing for a further development plan to be produced.
There are a few items addressed following contact from parishioners that are ongoing including works on trees in the play area in Oakthorpe, this item was deferred to the next meeting in October allowing the council the opportunity to speak to our arborist, we are also awaiting the release of funds that will see additional equipment added to the play area. The ongoing situation with the drainage system through Oakthorpe is high on the watch list, Severn Trent have completed some works on Burton Road, and we will continue to assist residents further up into the village who continue to have issues.
Finally, the parish has nominated themselves to join a pilot scheme with Leicester County Council working with them on new initiatives and ideas to support services and ongoing developments that could affect the area in which we live, this will allow us the opportunity to offer feedback.
As always this is just a snapshot of the meeting and full minutes can be found on our website .
Richard was a great character, had a wealth of knowledge and experience and took on all challenges with never failing enthusiasm. I know I am not alone in saying he will be much missed.
On a happier note, I hope you have been able to take advantage of the exceptional weather we have been having recently. The council had a ‘stall’ at the Apple Day last Sunday at the Community Orchard and it was lovely to see so many taking advantage of the sunshine and also to see people from Oakthorpe and Acresford and not just Donisthorpe residents. It feels as if we are really starting to become ‘a parish’ and not three separate villages.
One thing that was mentioned often at the Apple Day was the increase lately of dog fouling, especially in the Community Orchard but throughout the parish in general. ODAPC are looking into initiatives to address this rise but would like to remind everyone, not just dog owners, that not picking up your dog’s mess is an offence. Most areas of the parish are not far from a litter bin, used poo bags can be put in any of these (except the private one outside Donisthorpe Corner Shop) Even if it involves a slight ‘detour’ to your walk or carrying your pet’s waste a short distance please use these, some of ODAPC expenditure goes towards emptying these litter bins.
We had a visit this meeting from a representative of ‘The British Heart Foundation’ who is going to work with us to look at the distribution of defibrillators in the parish and getting some funding towards covering the shortfalls. Watch out for further developments.
The council have purchased another 6,000 spring bulbs which will be planted by community groups and volunteers over the next month on verges and green areas where we have permission to do so. The parish entrance planters will also be planted up with winter plants during the next month. Our tree specialist is also being asked to ‘lop’ some over tall trees in Oakthorpe Play Area and remove one tree to make room for the new play equipment and a tree which is dying (it looks like it has been ‘tampered’ with, if anyone knows anything about this we would like to know too)
Over the last few months there have been a number of ‘surprise’ road closures in the area. Most of these were planned well in advance but usually the first we motorists know about them is when we get to the diversion signs. If road closures do affect your everyday travel it is worth checking the LCC website on a regular basis. (Emergency roadworks can be found on www.one.network)
As usual these are just a few of the issues discussed. If you would like to read the full minutes they will be available on the ODAPC website and on the ODAPC Parish noticeboards. Our next full council meeting will be on November 8th 2023, 7pm ME Sports (formerly Oakthorpe Community Leisure Centre) Oakthorpe
Councillor Debbie Warren
September 2023
The Parish Council met on Wednesday 13th following the Summer break, it is with regret that during the break Cllr Richard Dyason took the difficult decision to stand down and we extend our thanks to him for the years of service he offered to the council. This however left us with a vacancy, due to this being an election year it meant we needed to advertise the rights for electors to request a new election. This was not required, and we therefore offered the vacancy for co-option.
It is with great pleasure that the council co-opted Mrs Tina Hawke to the council and she joined us for the meeting, we extend a warm welcome to Tina who lives in Donisthorpe and brings with her a wealth of experience.
It was lovely to see parishioners attend the meeting, we always love to hear from the parish, we also welcomed Cllr Mike Ball who represents the parish on the District Council and Cllr Robert Ashman who represents the parish on the County Council.
The Friends of ODA Memorial Gardens attended the meeting to update on progress, you will of course have noticed that the Pit Wheel has been removed, it is being sand blasted and re painted and will return to the gardens in a new position, the project will see a fantastic community asset redeveloped to provide a great open space for everyone to enjoy for years to come.
The Parish Council is proud to support community initiatives and regularly provides donations to events that happen within the parish, recently donating the to Donisthorpe Field day, funding the Pit Wheel removal and refurbishment, funding is also ear marked to assist with placing speed awareness banners in the parish, planters and plants at the entrances to the villages & yearly funding to the Three Views News to ensure this also continues. The council has a list of projects that they wish to carry out and continue to review this to ensure we capture everything that you as parishioners want to see.
Please keep an eye out for the Parish Questionnaire we have received a couple of responses, but we would love to see more allowing us to work on the areas that you want, the closing date for this will be FRIDAY 20th OCTOBER
The council would like to thank all of the volunteers who recently completed the Community Speedwatch in Donisthorpe the results of which were extremely interesting allowing for a further development plan to be produced.
There are a few items addressed following contact from parishioners that are ongoing including works on trees in the play area in Oakthorpe, this item was deferred to the next meeting in October allowing the council the opportunity to speak to our arborist, we are also awaiting the release of funds that will see additional equipment added to the play area. The ongoing situation with the drainage system through Oakthorpe is high on the watch list, Severn Trent have completed some works on Burton Road, and we will continue to assist residents further up into the village who continue to have issues.
Finally, the parish has nominated themselves to join a pilot scheme with Leicester County Council working with them on new initiatives and ideas to support services and ongoing developments that could affect the area in which we live, this will allow us the opportunity to offer feedback.
As always this is just a snapshot of the meeting and full minutes can be found on our website .
March 2023
Council held its monthly meeting last Wednesday and as always there was much to discuss. Thank you to those who took time out to attend the meeting on a very cold and snowy evening.
It was pleasing to see a low number of recorded offences in last month’s Police Report. We also received data from the Speed Survey on Church Street in Donisthorpe last year. The Speed Signs we now have in each village will collect data to help understand where speeding, and to what degree, it is taking place. A new Speed Watch scheme is in the process of being set up through the Donisthorpe Neighbourhood Watch group, and 20 volunteers across the parish have signed up for the training, a fantastic response.
A partnership agreement was signed by the Chair of the ODA Memorial Gardens group and the Chair of the council, this sets out what council and the group commit to, whilst completing the project to improve the grounds, a key parish asset.
To commemorate the coronation of King Charles, three trees will be planted in the parish, one at each of our schools and one in the memorial garden at Acresford.
At times, we hear people say, ‘what does council do?’. I’d say we work hard to ensure our parish is one to be proud of. At the last meeting we reviewed the list of projects we committed to complete, and a report will come out soon detailing just what can be achieved during one term of council when everyone works together.
This is my last report for council and my final term in office. After 15 years it’s time for me to move on and focus on other priorities in my life. My councillor journey began as a town councillor with Ashby Woulds where I had the privilege of being elected Mayor on 3 occasions. I was a district councillor and finally, since 2019, a councillor with our parish council. It’s been a real privilege to serve all communities. It has also been challenging, hard work, always worthwhile and rewarding. I’d like to thank all my colleagues and the parish manager for their endless support, it’s been quite a ride! Our community is so fortunate to have many who contribute to a range of active voluntary groups, and I’d like to say thank you for your impressive work.
For anyone thinking of joining the parish council and is successfully elected at the coming election on May 4th, my advice is take time to understand your role, understand what is expected of you, what the rules are and how much of a contribution you can make in representing the community.
It’s a journey I didn’t think I could make when I was first approached to join the town council 15 years ago yet soon realised it’s a journey everyone who cares about their parish, can make. We all have something to offer. Good luck.
Cllr Sue McKendrick
Vice Chair
Oakthorpe Donisthorpe & Acresford Parish Council
Council held its monthly meeting last Wednesday and as always there was much to discuss. Thank you to those who took time out to attend the meeting on a very cold and snowy evening.
It was pleasing to see a low number of recorded offences in last month’s Police Report. We also received data from the Speed Survey on Church Street in Donisthorpe last year. The Speed Signs we now have in each village will collect data to help understand where speeding, and to what degree, it is taking place. A new Speed Watch scheme is in the process of being set up through the Donisthorpe Neighbourhood Watch group, and 20 volunteers across the parish have signed up for the training, a fantastic response.
A partnership agreement was signed by the Chair of the ODA Memorial Gardens group and the Chair of the council, this sets out what council and the group commit to, whilst completing the project to improve the grounds, a key parish asset.
To commemorate the coronation of King Charles, three trees will be planted in the parish, one at each of our schools and one in the memorial garden at Acresford.
At times, we hear people say, ‘what does council do?’. I’d say we work hard to ensure our parish is one to be proud of. At the last meeting we reviewed the list of projects we committed to complete, and a report will come out soon detailing just what can be achieved during one term of council when everyone works together.
This is my last report for council and my final term in office. After 15 years it’s time for me to move on and focus on other priorities in my life. My councillor journey began as a town councillor with Ashby Woulds where I had the privilege of being elected Mayor on 3 occasions. I was a district councillor and finally, since 2019, a councillor with our parish council. It’s been a real privilege to serve all communities. It has also been challenging, hard work, always worthwhile and rewarding. I’d like to thank all my colleagues and the parish manager for their endless support, it’s been quite a ride! Our community is so fortunate to have many who contribute to a range of active voluntary groups, and I’d like to say thank you for your impressive work.
For anyone thinking of joining the parish council and is successfully elected at the coming election on May 4th, my advice is take time to understand your role, understand what is expected of you, what the rules are and how much of a contribution you can make in representing the community.
It’s a journey I didn’t think I could make when I was first approached to join the town council 15 years ago yet soon realised it’s a journey everyone who cares about their parish, can make. We all have something to offer. Good luck.
Cllr Sue McKendrick
Vice Chair
Oakthorpe Donisthorpe & Acresford Parish Council
Feb 2023
I am sure we are all noticing the days just creeping out a little bit longer and how welcome it is. I’m sure nature is as confused at times as we are in relation to what season we are in! A number of the items under review and discussion at the current time are focused on looking forward and to brighter days around the parish. The Friends of ODA made an excellent presentation on a wide range of proposed community events in the coming year from quiz nights, village field days and Bands in the park. Their focus like ours, is to bring the community of the villages together and celebrate as well as recognise what an excellent range of events and people we have in our area.
The Parish council is here to work for you and the majority of matters discussed are focused on improving the places you live. Throughout all the villages there are public spaces that are maintained, developed and improved through the work of the parish council and input from the community. I hope you will have started to see the planters at the entrance and exit to the villages, these will be planted up and offer a colourful and welcoming entrance into our community. Again, this year the parish council will be awarding local schools with trophies and certificates to recognise the young people of the community and their contribution to their school and local area.
You will also notice over the coming weeks/months the increase in speed awareness devices that are going up. Their purpose is to keep our roads safe for all the people that use it. This data will be used to work with the police and encourage safe speeds in our villages.
As I have previously mentioned all the members of the parish council are volunteers who give up their time for the people in their area. It is at time shard work but vastly rewarding, we are currently looking for local people to join the Council and help shape your future. There are a number of upcoming events and I would encourage you to come and find out more about the role and how you can make a positive impact on your community.
Councillor Darren Gelder
I am sure we are all noticing the days just creeping out a little bit longer and how welcome it is. I’m sure nature is as confused at times as we are in relation to what season we are in! A number of the items under review and discussion at the current time are focused on looking forward and to brighter days around the parish. The Friends of ODA made an excellent presentation on a wide range of proposed community events in the coming year from quiz nights, village field days and Bands in the park. Their focus like ours, is to bring the community of the villages together and celebrate as well as recognise what an excellent range of events and people we have in our area.
The Parish council is here to work for you and the majority of matters discussed are focused on improving the places you live. Throughout all the villages there are public spaces that are maintained, developed and improved through the work of the parish council and input from the community. I hope you will have started to see the planters at the entrance and exit to the villages, these will be planted up and offer a colourful and welcoming entrance into our community. Again, this year the parish council will be awarding local schools with trophies and certificates to recognise the young people of the community and their contribution to their school and local area.
You will also notice over the coming weeks/months the increase in speed awareness devices that are going up. Their purpose is to keep our roads safe for all the people that use it. This data will be used to work with the police and encourage safe speeds in our villages.
As I have previously mentioned all the members of the parish council are volunteers who give up their time for the people in their area. It is at time shard work but vastly rewarding, we are currently looking for local people to join the Council and help shape your future. There are a number of upcoming events and I would encourage you to come and find out more about the role and how you can make a positive impact on your community.
Councillor Darren Gelder
January for February Issue 2023
I hope everyone had a good Christmas and you are all on track to a great 2023.
With local elections coming up in May I have been looking back on my last four years’ term of office on the Parish Council.
My experience as a parish councillor has been most interesting. I have gained insight into how local government works and had input into parish decisions and trying to improve the appearance and safety of our area. I only wished I had become a Councillor when first approached years ago.
We are hoping that more people in the parish show an interest and apply to become a councillor. I can assure you that the position can be an extremely rewarding experience.
If you are interested, but unsure, during February the parish council will be holding two sessions to enable anyone living in the parish, or within three miles of it, to come and find out what is involved. You can come and speak informally to present councillors, have a look at some paperwork, discuss procedures, finances and find out about training available.
Both sessions are to be held in the Youth Club room at DMs in Donisthorpe. The first will be on Wednesday, February 15th, 9:30am to 3:30pm (ideal for anyone dropping children off at school or before picking them up) and the second will be on Sunday, February 19th, 10:00am to 2:00pm (perfect for those who work in the week or who have been to Church or Sunday football)
If you are interested and want to find out more please just come along for a drink and a biscuit and a chat. See the back cover of the 3VN for all the information.
The January meeting was short compared to normal. The budget and precept have been finalised and approved and will be published on the parish website and noticeboards shortly.
The arboreal work in the Community Orchard is progressing well and a plan is being put in place to ensure that all trees that are parish responsibility are monitored regularly. The parish application to the Highways Fund had been accepted. 9 Planters are in place at entrances to the parish and, in part, paid for as part of this initiative. Hopefully, the traffic calming measures we have applied for will be processed and implemented soon.
The council would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciative thanks to Kevin Borley for his generous contribution to the planters, the help of Kevin and Alex, a member of Kevins team, to deliver each planter, fill with compost and plant spring bulbs. All completed in one morning and now we look forward to Spring. If you are a keen gardener, have the time and would like to help look after the planters, please contact the parish manager.
Look out for details of the next full parish council meeting, the date for the meeting is Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, the venue is to be confirmed as there have been flooding problems at ME Sports (OCLC)
Councillor Mick Warren, Chair, ODAPC
I hope everyone had a good Christmas and you are all on track to a great 2023.
With local elections coming up in May I have been looking back on my last four years’ term of office on the Parish Council.
My experience as a parish councillor has been most interesting. I have gained insight into how local government works and had input into parish decisions and trying to improve the appearance and safety of our area. I only wished I had become a Councillor when first approached years ago.
We are hoping that more people in the parish show an interest and apply to become a councillor. I can assure you that the position can be an extremely rewarding experience.
If you are interested, but unsure, during February the parish council will be holding two sessions to enable anyone living in the parish, or within three miles of it, to come and find out what is involved. You can come and speak informally to present councillors, have a look at some paperwork, discuss procedures, finances and find out about training available.
Both sessions are to be held in the Youth Club room at DMs in Donisthorpe. The first will be on Wednesday, February 15th, 9:30am to 3:30pm (ideal for anyone dropping children off at school or before picking them up) and the second will be on Sunday, February 19th, 10:00am to 2:00pm (perfect for those who work in the week or who have been to Church or Sunday football)
If you are interested and want to find out more please just come along for a drink and a biscuit and a chat. See the back cover of the 3VN for all the information.
The January meeting was short compared to normal. The budget and precept have been finalised and approved and will be published on the parish website and noticeboards shortly.
The arboreal work in the Community Orchard is progressing well and a plan is being put in place to ensure that all trees that are parish responsibility are monitored regularly. The parish application to the Highways Fund had been accepted. 9 Planters are in place at entrances to the parish and, in part, paid for as part of this initiative. Hopefully, the traffic calming measures we have applied for will be processed and implemented soon.
The council would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciative thanks to Kevin Borley for his generous contribution to the planters, the help of Kevin and Alex, a member of Kevins team, to deliver each planter, fill with compost and plant spring bulbs. All completed in one morning and now we look forward to Spring. If you are a keen gardener, have the time and would like to help look after the planters, please contact the parish manager.
Look out for details of the next full parish council meeting, the date for the meeting is Wednesday, February 8th, 2023, the venue is to be confirmed as there have been flooding problems at ME Sports (OCLC)
Councillor Mick Warren, Chair, ODAPC
November for December Issue
I begin this report with an apology. It was my job to write the report on the September PC meeting for the October edition of THREE VIEWS NEWS. As you know the meeting was cancelled due to the passing of our Queen. I did write a piece but as it was a sensitive issue I procrastinated and as a result I missed the publishing deadline. Copies of the article were displayed on parish notice boards but obviously not everyone got to read these. I am very sorry if you missed the article.
The agenda for the November meeting was a full one and you will be able to read the minutes online, once they are accepted as a true record but there are a couple of urgent issues we wish to bring to your notice.
As you know next year is council election year. There will be vacancies on the Parish Council and we are encouraging parishioners to think about getting involved. At present your council is not well balanced, it would be good to see new councillors, especially people from Donisthorpe, elected for the next term.
We will be working on ‘recruiting’ new candidates between now and the elections but the best way to find out what is involved is to come along to meetings or speak to any of us currently on the council. It is a very rewarding experience, obviously it involves giving up some of your time, not just attending monthly meetings, but the more proactive you are the more satisfaction you get.
f you think that you could make a difference, if you are not happy with how things are now, if you think we can do better, then you are just the person we need.
Just to make you aware, if there is not enough interest to have an election and there are not enough parish councillors for ODAPC to be quorate the numbers will be made up by representatives from district council, is this what we want for our community?
An important, national, issue at the moment is the cost of living crisis. Parish Councils around the country are looking at ways they can help. ODAPC have been speaking with nearby councils about what we can do. Various ideas have arisen from this but one of the first things we need is volunteers to help and form a discussion group to work out what we can do for our community.
If you think you could help contact the Parish Manager or one of the councillors.
Finally, we have recently been receiving reports from the public about damaged graves in the cemetery in Donisthorpe. Following these reports it appears that many of the graves that have been ‘knocked down’ have actually been laid down for Health & Safety reasons. The council and the Burial Board cannot actually carry out repairs, the graves belong to the relatives, sometimes it is difficult to get hold of these relatives and the Burial Board just take action to make safe where necessary. If you are concerned about anything in the cemetery please contact the clerk of the Burial Board or inform our Parish Manager and she will pass on your concerns.
It is just left for me, on behalf of all of us on Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe and Acresford Parish Council to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Healthy and Happy 2023
Councillor Debbie Warren, ODAPC
October 2022
As the nights draw in and the paste remnants of summer disappear its time to get ready for the change in season. This months Parish council agenda reflected a change in season as we prepare not only for the winter months but the following spring. From bulb planting to new village planters and the refurbishment and upkeep of communal areas to ensure everyone in the parish has something to look forward too in these challenging times. Any support in planting the bulbs and maintain the village planters would be very welcome.
Traffic and speeding are a constant item and a topic for all in the parish, we have put forward a proposal to county to secure funding for further traffic calming measures. A new MVAS speed warning camera has been purchased and will be deployed around the parish. The parish council is also doing a great deal of work for the upcoming Remembrance Day, where the new memorial gates at Donisthorpe will be a centre piece of he event.
From talking with many people around the villages the role of a parish councillor can seem unclear. In the centre pages of this edition is some information to help explain what we do and how you can be involved. Many things that are taken for granted actually require the time and effort put in by volunteers to ensure that our villages and surrounding areas are adapted and developed to meet the needs and requests of the people who make up our community. From planning to speaking at school events, working with the police and county representatives on your behalf are all parts of a wide, varied and rewarding job, Please think about getting involved, with your input we can make a difference to our community
Cllr Darren Gelder
As the nights draw in and the paste remnants of summer disappear its time to get ready for the change in season. This months Parish council agenda reflected a change in season as we prepare not only for the winter months but the following spring. From bulb planting to new village planters and the refurbishment and upkeep of communal areas to ensure everyone in the parish has something to look forward too in these challenging times. Any support in planting the bulbs and maintain the village planters would be very welcome.
Traffic and speeding are a constant item and a topic for all in the parish, we have put forward a proposal to county to secure funding for further traffic calming measures. A new MVAS speed warning camera has been purchased and will be deployed around the parish. The parish council is also doing a great deal of work for the upcoming Remembrance Day, where the new memorial gates at Donisthorpe will be a centre piece of he event.
From talking with many people around the villages the role of a parish councillor can seem unclear. In the centre pages of this edition is some information to help explain what we do and how you can be involved. Many things that are taken for granted actually require the time and effort put in by volunteers to ensure that our villages and surrounding areas are adapted and developed to meet the needs and requests of the people who make up our community. From planning to speaking at school events, working with the police and county representatives on your behalf are all parts of a wide, varied and rewarding job, Please think about getting involved, with your input we can make a difference to our community
Cllr Darren Gelder
September 2022
It was with great sadness that we heard of the death of
Our Queen, Elizabeth the Second
We give thanks for her long and selfless service
May she now rest, in peace
Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe & Acresford Parish Council
In accordance with protocol and following local government guidelines the September 14th meeting of Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe & Acresford Parish Council was cancelled.
All items for discussion will now be carried over to the meeting on Wednesday, October 12th. As always persons wishing to attend this meeting will be most welcome.
As there was no meeting there is no official report this month but here is a brief update on the progress of some of the initiatives the PC have agreed on.
The Parish Council were represented at the silence at the Parish Memorial Ground on Sunday, September 18th and at Donisthorpe Church on the day of The Queen’s Funeral.
We have now obtained a further Motor Vehicle Activated Sign and hopefully you will be seeing this in Donisthorpe or Oakthorpe very soon.
There seems to be some misunderstanding over the purpose of the MVAS units. Although they do make motorists aware of their speed the main objective of the unit is to collect traffic data. The PC are only allowed to site them in accordance with Highways instruction and they should only remain in situ for a stipulated length of time.
The plan is that eventually the Parish have three units, one for each village and these are to be moved around to cover the ‘trouble spots’ and hopefully collect the data required to prove we need more permanent traffic calming.
The PC has listened to your concerns over the years and has supplied Highways with these views but frustratingly not all the areas we identified have been deemed suitable for MVAS data collection.
The new Kissing Bench, to replace the decommissioned one in the parish orchard, has been delivered and will hopefully be installed before Apple Day. The PC is also seeking guidance regarding work on trees in the orchard as it seems that a lot needs to be done in this area.
A reminder from our Parish Manager: - Next year is council elections, if you are interested in helping to shape your parish you could consider becoming a Parish Councillor. More information will be in next month’s edition. You are welcome to come and observe a meeting, these are held every second Wednesday of the month.
Cllr. Debbie Warren
August 2022
July 2022
June 2022
This month I write my report as the new Chair of the Parish Council. I have some big boots to fill, all I can say is that I will try my hardest.
I would like to begin by thanking Sue McKendrick for her time and hard work put in over the previous three years and for bringing Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe & Acresford Parish Council up to date and the standards we should expect. The experience she brought with her has made us a progressive & proactive group, ready to move forward.
The Platinum Jubilee brought communities together all around Britain and our parish was no different. Sadly, I missed the celebrations here as we were away on holiday with our family, however I have heard from many people what a great day it was for all. This is down to the many groups and individuals involved in the organisation of the event on the Memorial Ground and other celebrations. I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say a big thank you to all who came together to arrange these celebrations.
Full details of the June PC meeting will be published as usual on the PC website and the parish noticeboards, but I will include a few points which may be of interest in this report.
The topic of hedges arose. As spring is progressing the verges and hedges are growing at an astounding rate. Some hedges on Parish boundaries have been reported by parishioners with requests that the PC cut them. Whilst we appreciate that some of our boundary hedges may be causing frustration and inconvenience we have to follow local government guidelines. In order to protect nesting birds we are not permitted to cut hedges between March 1st and September 1st[KG1] . Failure to comply with this could result in the Parish Council facing prosecution so please bear with us on this matter.
The topic of more allotments in the Parish was again raised. ODAPC have been advised that the land they have identified could be used for allotments but we need to put in an application for this and obtain it officially, this would involve some financial outlay. As waiting lists for allotments are growing throughout the district we are happy to move forward with this but we need to know that there are people in the parish prepared to initiate this project before we commit ourselves to securing the land. If anyone would like to know more about this please speak to a parish councillor or contact Kelly Grove. You will have full support of the parish council and our district councillor, also The Donisthorpe Allotment Group is well established and organised and have offered advice and support if required. We can go ahead with this, the ball is now in your court.
Finally, I would like to congratulate Kelly Grove who has worked so hard since becoming Parish Clerk and has now gained all of the qualifications necessary to be granted the title of Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe and Acresford Parish Manager.
Thank you to all that show an interest in what we are doing. If you are not sure what it is we actually do please come to one of our monthly meetings, you may find you would like to be more involved.
Mick Warren, Chair, Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe and Acresford Parish Council
[KG1]LCC say- Routine cutting of our highway owned hedges is restricted to between October and February, to avoid bird nesting season and fit around the grass cutting programme. Hedges are only cut for safety reasons to ensure branches do not overhang the carriageway or footway/cycleways
This month I write my report as the new Chair of the Parish Council. I have some big boots to fill, all I can say is that I will try my hardest.
I would like to begin by thanking Sue McKendrick for her time and hard work put in over the previous three years and for bringing Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe & Acresford Parish Council up to date and the standards we should expect. The experience she brought with her has made us a progressive & proactive group, ready to move forward.
The Platinum Jubilee brought communities together all around Britain and our parish was no different. Sadly, I missed the celebrations here as we were away on holiday with our family, however I have heard from many people what a great day it was for all. This is down to the many groups and individuals involved in the organisation of the event on the Memorial Ground and other celebrations. I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say a big thank you to all who came together to arrange these celebrations.
Full details of the June PC meeting will be published as usual on the PC website and the parish noticeboards, but I will include a few points which may be of interest in this report.
The topic of hedges arose. As spring is progressing the verges and hedges are growing at an astounding rate. Some hedges on Parish boundaries have been reported by parishioners with requests that the PC cut them. Whilst we appreciate that some of our boundary hedges may be causing frustration and inconvenience we have to follow local government guidelines. In order to protect nesting birds we are not permitted to cut hedges between March 1st and September 1st[KG1] . Failure to comply with this could result in the Parish Council facing prosecution so please bear with us on this matter.
The topic of more allotments in the Parish was again raised. ODAPC have been advised that the land they have identified could be used for allotments but we need to put in an application for this and obtain it officially, this would involve some financial outlay. As waiting lists for allotments are growing throughout the district we are happy to move forward with this but we need to know that there are people in the parish prepared to initiate this project before we commit ourselves to securing the land. If anyone would like to know more about this please speak to a parish councillor or contact Kelly Grove. You will have full support of the parish council and our district councillor, also The Donisthorpe Allotment Group is well established and organised and have offered advice and support if required. We can go ahead with this, the ball is now in your court.
Finally, I would like to congratulate Kelly Grove who has worked so hard since becoming Parish Clerk and has now gained all of the qualifications necessary to be granted the title of Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe and Acresford Parish Manager.
Thank you to all that show an interest in what we are doing. If you are not sure what it is we actually do please come to one of our monthly meetings, you may find you would like to be more involved.
Mick Warren, Chair, Oakthorpe, Donisthorpe and Acresford Parish Council
[KG1]LCC say- Routine cutting of our highway owned hedges is restricted to between October and February, to avoid bird nesting season and fit around the grass cutting programme. Hedges are only cut for safety reasons to ensure branches do not overhang the carriageway or footway/cycleways
Chair's Annual Report 11th May 2022
There wasn’t an annual parish meeting last year and this report will cover more than the last 12 months.
It has been a difficult time for many people, but the strong sense of community that has come to the forefront since the pandemic began has been inspiring. Voluntary groups and local businesses have worked hard to support those who have been struggling to cope or have needed someone to talk to in these difficult times and they have made a significant contribution to the care of the parish and its people.
I want to pay tribute to the work of members of the whole range of groups and to those who choose to stay in the background, making contributions in their own way. We also know there are those who, for a range of reasons and circumstances, are unable to be involved in activities and whatever the contribution, it is equally valuable to us all.
The council has been able to move towards usual business, returning to face to face meetings as we continue to carry out improvements to the parish.
A tree survey was commissioned on land the parish owns and the results of the survey provided reassurances most trees were healthy.
We continue to plant spring bulbs around the parish and the positive feedback from parishioners indicates the difference they make.
The project to improve the Memorial Gardens progresses and our application for funds to carry out remedial work to the gates is being finalised.
Responsibility for operational management of the leisure centre has now transferred to ME Sports, a Community Interest Company.
Three new benches and flowering cherry trees have been secured for the parish through an initiative by the district council, one in each village. The benches provide a place to sit and reflect on the those lost during the pandemic.
In response to the growing concerns about speeding across the parish, we purchased 2 Mobile Vehicle Activated Signs (MVAS), currently in use in Acresford whilst we await confirmation of other locations for MVAS across the parish.
A new notice board was erected on Chapel Street in Donisthorpe and others will be replaced.
Hawthorn hedging has been laid alongside the allotment boundary with the orchard. It will take time to grow and will provide important habitats over time as well as a robust boundary to the allotments.
This year marks an historic achievement by the monarchy, 70 years reign. In recognition of this unique historic event, the council has commissioned commemorative medallions to give to every child attending our two schools in the parish.
This is my final report as chairman of the council and I’d like to thank colleagues for putting their trust in me to lead the council for the last three years and for the professional assistance and advice of Kelly, the parish clerk for the last two years.
It also gives me great pleasure to offer congratulations to Kelly who has achieved a key qualification, the Certificate in Local Council Administration, otherwise known as the CILCA. This is the recognised qualification for local council clerks and along with at least two thirds of cllrs being declared elected to this council, it now means the council would meet the criteria to hold the General Power of Competence (GPC) should it so wish. The GPC enables council to consider a range of powers and the right to act, that would not otherwise be available. A great achievement for Kelly from which the council and therefore the parish, can benefit. I am happy to end my chairmanship with such positive news.
Cllr Sue McKendrick
Chairman
11th May 2022
It has been a difficult time for many people, but the strong sense of community that has come to the forefront since the pandemic began has been inspiring. Voluntary groups and local businesses have worked hard to support those who have been struggling to cope or have needed someone to talk to in these difficult times and they have made a significant contribution to the care of the parish and its people.
I want to pay tribute to the work of members of the whole range of groups and to those who choose to stay in the background, making contributions in their own way. We also know there are those who, for a range of reasons and circumstances, are unable to be involved in activities and whatever the contribution, it is equally valuable to us all.
The council has been able to move towards usual business, returning to face to face meetings as we continue to carry out improvements to the parish.
A tree survey was commissioned on land the parish owns and the results of the survey provided reassurances most trees were healthy.
We continue to plant spring bulbs around the parish and the positive feedback from parishioners indicates the difference they make.
The project to improve the Memorial Gardens progresses and our application for funds to carry out remedial work to the gates is being finalised.
Responsibility for operational management of the leisure centre has now transferred to ME Sports, a Community Interest Company.
Three new benches and flowering cherry trees have been secured for the parish through an initiative by the district council, one in each village. The benches provide a place to sit and reflect on the those lost during the pandemic.
In response to the growing concerns about speeding across the parish, we purchased 2 Mobile Vehicle Activated Signs (MVAS), currently in use in Acresford whilst we await confirmation of other locations for MVAS across the parish.
A new notice board was erected on Chapel Street in Donisthorpe and others will be replaced.
Hawthorn hedging has been laid alongside the allotment boundary with the orchard. It will take time to grow and will provide important habitats over time as well as a robust boundary to the allotments.
This year marks an historic achievement by the monarchy, 70 years reign. In recognition of this unique historic event, the council has commissioned commemorative medallions to give to every child attending our two schools in the parish.
This is my final report as chairman of the council and I’d like to thank colleagues for putting their trust in me to lead the council for the last three years and for the professional assistance and advice of Kelly, the parish clerk for the last two years.
It also gives me great pleasure to offer congratulations to Kelly who has achieved a key qualification, the Certificate in Local Council Administration, otherwise known as the CILCA. This is the recognised qualification for local council clerks and along with at least two thirds of cllrs being declared elected to this council, it now means the council would meet the criteria to hold the General Power of Competence (GPC) should it so wish. The GPC enables council to consider a range of powers and the right to act, that would not otherwise be available. A great achievement for Kelly from which the council and therefore the parish, can benefit. I am happy to end my chairmanship with such positive news.
Cllr Sue McKendrick
Chairman
11th May 2022