12. Tony Hogg Monthly Report
Monthly report - March 2015 Hearing what you think about policing where you live is an important part of Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Hogg's role. The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) already has much more public contact than the old police authority ever did. Now we want to have more contact and we want to do it better - speaking and listening to you in ways that you want us to.
Hear him explain why he wants to do that by clicking here.
We are also asking the public how best they would like to contact their local policing team. If you want to join the consultation click here.
Monthly report - March 2015 Hearing what you think about policing where you live is an important part of Police and Crime Commissioner Tony Hogg's role. The Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) already has much more public contact than the old police authority ever did. Now we want to have more contact and we want to do it better - speaking and listening to you in ways that you want us to.
Hear him explain why he wants to do that by clicking here.
We are also asking the public how best they would like to contact their local policing team. If you want to join the consultation click here.
11. Election Candidate Nomination Papers
Good afternoon, just to let you know that I am in the process of preparing the nomination papers for the forthcoming town and parish elections.
I am hoping that they will be printed and ready to post out to you next week in your parish clerk post (on Friday 6th Feb). I will supply you with sufficient numbers for each of your seats, plus one extra copy. If you find you need more during the nomination process please let me know. They will be quite bulky (15 pages per nomination pack).
Good afternoon, just to let you know that I am in the process of preparing the nomination papers for the forthcoming town and parish elections.
I am hoping that they will be printed and ready to post out to you next week in your parish clerk post (on Friday 6th Feb). I will supply you with sufficient numbers for each of your seats, plus one extra copy. If you find you need more during the nomination process please let me know. They will be quite bulky (15 pages per nomination pack).
10. The publication version of Our Plan West Devon is now available for consultation and will run from Thursday 26th February until 5pm on Monday 13th April.
The following documents are available for consultation during this time:
· Our Plan West Devon – Publication Version
· Our Plan Sustainability Appraisal and Strategic Environmental Assessment
· Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA)
The consultation documents are also supported by the following evidence and information, including:
Business Survey
Facilitating Economic Growth Report (known as the Economic Growth Advisor Study)
Green Infrastructure Framework
Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP)
Land Availability Assessment (LAA)
Landscape Character Assessment for proposed development sites impacting on the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Open Space, Sport and Recreation Study
Playing Pitch Strategy and Needs Assessment
Statement of Consultation
Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA)
Strategic Housing Market Needs Assessment (SHMNA)
Strategic Viability Assessment
Topic Paper – Low Carbon and Renewable Energy
Topic Paper – Setting the Development Strategy
Topic Paper – Understanding our Objectively Assessed Need
Please make your Councillors aware of this consultation.
You can view all of the documents on the Councils website at www.westdevon.gov.uk/consultation.
Paper copies will also be available to view at the Council’s offices at both Kilworthy Park, Tavistock and St James Street, Okehampton.
Paper copies of the documents can be purchased by prior arrangement. Please contact a member of the Strategic Planning Team who will be able to advise on the relevant printing and postage costs.
We are holding events to support this consultation in Okehampton, Tavistock, Bere Alston, Hatherleigh, Lifton and North Tawton and we invite you to attend any of these. A poster is attached with further information. If you are able to display the poster on your local notice boards to help promote the events, we would be most grateful.
We hope you will give us your views on the draft plan. The Council cannot respond directly to individual comments made but please be assured that all comments will be considered and, where appropriate, changes made to the final document before it is submitted for independent examination in due course. Please note that all comments received will be made publicly available. We will not publish any personal information.
This is a statutory consultation in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012.
Kind regards,
Rebecca
Rebecca Black | Strategic Planning Officer
Planning, Economy & Community | West Devon Borough Council
The following documents are available for consultation during this time:
· Our Plan West Devon – Publication Version
· Our Plan Sustainability Appraisal and Strategic Environmental Assessment
· Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA)
The consultation documents are also supported by the following evidence and information, including:
Business Survey
Facilitating Economic Growth Report (known as the Economic Growth Advisor Study)
Green Infrastructure Framework
Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP)
Land Availability Assessment (LAA)
Landscape Character Assessment for proposed development sites impacting on the Tamar Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Open Space, Sport and Recreation Study
Playing Pitch Strategy and Needs Assessment
Statement of Consultation
Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA)
Strategic Housing Market Needs Assessment (SHMNA)
Strategic Viability Assessment
Topic Paper – Low Carbon and Renewable Energy
Topic Paper – Setting the Development Strategy
Topic Paper – Understanding our Objectively Assessed Need
Please make your Councillors aware of this consultation.
You can view all of the documents on the Councils website at www.westdevon.gov.uk/consultation.
Paper copies will also be available to view at the Council’s offices at both Kilworthy Park, Tavistock and St James Street, Okehampton.
Paper copies of the documents can be purchased by prior arrangement. Please contact a member of the Strategic Planning Team who will be able to advise on the relevant printing and postage costs.
We are holding events to support this consultation in Okehampton, Tavistock, Bere Alston, Hatherleigh, Lifton and North Tawton and we invite you to attend any of these. A poster is attached with further information. If you are able to display the poster on your local notice boards to help promote the events, we would be most grateful.
We hope you will give us your views on the draft plan. The Council cannot respond directly to individual comments made but please be assured that all comments will be considered and, where appropriate, changes made to the final document before it is submitted for independent examination in due course. Please note that all comments received will be made publicly available. We will not publish any personal information.
This is a statutory consultation in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012.
Kind regards,
Rebecca
Rebecca Black | Strategic Planning Officer
Planning, Economy & Community | West Devon Borough Council
9. DNPA Parish Workshop agenda 11 March
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8. Holne Moor archaeological conservation day 12 March 2015
Come and help Dartmoor National Park Rangers and Archaeologists carry out vital archaeological conservation work on Thursday 12 March at Holne Moor.
A number of important prehistoric burial cairns have become covered by gorse and bracken which threatens their long term condition. These impressive monuments, thought to be around 3,500 to 4,000 years old form an important part of the internationally regarded archaeological landscape of Holne Moor. We need your help to clear these sites of invasive vegetation and ensure that they are preserved for future generations.
If you would like to help us we will be meeting at 9.30 am at the large car park on Holne Moor located south of the Venford Dam (SX68837085). Please be sure to wear appropriate work clothes and suitable foot wear for moorland walking, as well as bringing waterproofs, drinks and a packed lunch. All tools will be provided. We will be returning back to the car park for 3.30 pm.
These volunteer days are an excellent opportunity to work with Archaeologists, learn about Dartmoor’s past and contribute to the preservation of our heritage - as well as enjoy some healthy exercise in wonderful surroundings. You will also be working with National Park Rangers and will gain an insight into their vital role in the management of the National Park.
We are limited to 20 volunteers, so please book early to ensure a place by emailing Andy Crabb (Archaeologist) at [email protected] or phone 01626 831077
Come and help Dartmoor National Park Rangers and Archaeologists carry out vital archaeological conservation work on Thursday 12 March at Holne Moor.
A number of important prehistoric burial cairns have become covered by gorse and bracken which threatens their long term condition. These impressive monuments, thought to be around 3,500 to 4,000 years old form an important part of the internationally regarded archaeological landscape of Holne Moor. We need your help to clear these sites of invasive vegetation and ensure that they are preserved for future generations.
If you would like to help us we will be meeting at 9.30 am at the large car park on Holne Moor located south of the Venford Dam (SX68837085). Please be sure to wear appropriate work clothes and suitable foot wear for moorland walking, as well as bringing waterproofs, drinks and a packed lunch. All tools will be provided. We will be returning back to the car park for 3.30 pm.
These volunteer days are an excellent opportunity to work with Archaeologists, learn about Dartmoor’s past and contribute to the preservation of our heritage - as well as enjoy some healthy exercise in wonderful surroundings. You will also be working with National Park Rangers and will gain an insight into their vital role in the management of the National Park.
We are limited to 20 volunteers, so please book early to ensure a place by emailing Andy Crabb (Archaeologist) at [email protected] or phone 01626 831077
7. County emergency planning newsletter
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6a. Police response to irresponsible drivers letter
Dear Mr Tigwell,
Many thanks for your recent letter and apologies for the delay in reply.
I was certainly aware of the issues during the recent period of snow and ice and the fact that our officers, including PCSO’s were heavily involved in policing the area.
My expectation of the officers attending incidents would be to deal with the situation as proportionately and as fairly as they saw fit. This would include, if the evidence was available, reporting persons for specific offences.
Unfortunately in the majority of these cases police would not have a power of arrest for anti social or inconsiderate driving, but i would expect officers to deal with offenders as robustly as possible.
As i am sure you are aware that the police service is under growing pressure to continue to provide a high quality service with ever reducing resources and finances. As the Inspector for west Devon i will always monitor ongoing issues across the geographical area and we will respond accordingly.
You can be reassured that during the next period of cold weather i will focus the attention of our officers on the issues that you have raised in your letter, i cannot promise that we will always be able to attend immediately, due to large area that our officers are asked to cover but working with the local PCSO’s and other agencies including Dartmoor National Park we will endeavour to police this area of concern as proactively as possible.
I hope i have been able to provide adequate reassurance, and i look forward to meeting and working with you in the future.
Best Wishes.
Temp Inspector Mark Sloman
Dear Mr Tigwell,
Many thanks for your recent letter and apologies for the delay in reply.
I was certainly aware of the issues during the recent period of snow and ice and the fact that our officers, including PCSO’s were heavily involved in policing the area.
My expectation of the officers attending incidents would be to deal with the situation as proportionately and as fairly as they saw fit. This would include, if the evidence was available, reporting persons for specific offences.
Unfortunately in the majority of these cases police would not have a power of arrest for anti social or inconsiderate driving, but i would expect officers to deal with offenders as robustly as possible.
As i am sure you are aware that the police service is under growing pressure to continue to provide a high quality service with ever reducing resources and finances. As the Inspector for west Devon i will always monitor ongoing issues across the geographical area and we will respond accordingly.
You can be reassured that during the next period of cold weather i will focus the attention of our officers on the issues that you have raised in your letter, i cannot promise that we will always be able to attend immediately, due to large area that our officers are asked to cover but working with the local PCSO’s and other agencies including Dartmoor National Park we will endeavour to police this area of concern as proactively as possible.
I hope i have been able to provide adequate reassurance, and i look forward to meeting and working with you in the future.
Best Wishes.
Temp Inspector Mark Sloman
6b. DNPA response to irresponsible drivers letter (email exchange)
Hello Nigel
Yes, my email copied to you, crossed your letter to Jo which I have now seen. You will detect my reluctance with this, but we will discuss with relevant colleagues and come back to you. The fact there is a willing volunteer would be a big help.
Andrew Watson
Andrew
I had thought your email below was in response to my letter to Jo Rumble of 12 Feb on the same subject (copy attached for information) and responded accordingly. I now realise you were responding to a similar point raised by a member of the public. My apologies if my response caused any confusion, but the sentiments remain the same: Dartmoor Forest Parish Council would definitely like the capability to lock HMVC car park in snow and ice conditions.
Best wishes
Nigel
Andrew
Thank you for your response. The Parish Council is well aware of the issues you describe but we also have a local key keeper in the guise of Cllr Mark Renders who is the postmaster and is up at 5am each morning for the newspapers etc. He is clear that he would not be inconvenienced but will be providing a great voluntary service to the community. The proposal is not to lock the car park each night as at Haytor but to have the facility to lock it during snow and ice when these idiot drivers seem to be attracted to Princetown. On the basis of the weather so far, we would probably only have locked it on 5-7 nights this winter. We can easily place laminated ‘get out of jail free cards’ under the windscreen wipers of any cars that appear to be parking overnight on how to contact Mark for release. However, on the type of nights we are concerned about there is not much overnight parking anyway and any displaced parking would not be an issue as the car parking restriction introduced on the main road through Princetown only applies during the working day.
The Parish Council consider this proposal to be a minimal cost proportionate measure and I would be grateful if you reconsider.
Best wishes
Nigel
Hello again
We hope the intervention by the police will have the desired effect, although we do recognise that this can be temporary and can displace the problem elsewhere, so as I say, we will keep under review.
At Haytor, there is a resident who lives in a property directly behind the car park who has agreed to go out in the evening and lock the chain across the entrance, and then unlock again each morning. If there are vehicles parked into the evening, then he has to wait until they have left, so that they are not locked in.
The anti social behaviour has reduced, but has also shifted to the top car park ,and the boy racers are continuing to race up and down the road on the hill at Haytor, so it hasn’t entirely stopped the problem altogether.
At Princetown, we do allow overnight parking of vehicles in our car park ,so locking it would be problematical. There would need to be a local key holder and a notice to say where to go to or a phone number to ring to be released from the car park - I am sure whoever it was, would quickly get fed up with being disturbed late into the evening or early morning from people returning to their vehicles and wanting to leave.
If the car park is locked, there is also the potential for increased displaced car parking if people arrive early on, or if for whatever reason the car park isn’t opened promptly. Now that the car parking restriction introduced on the main road through Princetown (which was done at the request of the local community) is now operational, the potential for displaced parking increases if our car park isn’t available.
As I said earlier, we are keeping the car park issues under review, but I hope you will appreciate that locking the car park isn’t quite as simple a solution as it may first appear.
Regards
Andrew Watson
Head of Recreation, Access & Estates
6c South Devon Rural Housing response to Royal Court gritting letter
Hello Nigel
Yes, my email copied to you, crossed your letter to Jo which I have now seen. You will detect my reluctance with this, but we will discuss with relevant colleagues and come back to you. The fact there is a willing volunteer would be a big help.
Andrew Watson
Andrew
I had thought your email below was in response to my letter to Jo Rumble of 12 Feb on the same subject (copy attached for information) and responded accordingly. I now realise you were responding to a similar point raised by a member of the public. My apologies if my response caused any confusion, but the sentiments remain the same: Dartmoor Forest Parish Council would definitely like the capability to lock HMVC car park in snow and ice conditions.
Best wishes
Nigel
Andrew
Thank you for your response. The Parish Council is well aware of the issues you describe but we also have a local key keeper in the guise of Cllr Mark Renders who is the postmaster and is up at 5am each morning for the newspapers etc. He is clear that he would not be inconvenienced but will be providing a great voluntary service to the community. The proposal is not to lock the car park each night as at Haytor but to have the facility to lock it during snow and ice when these idiot drivers seem to be attracted to Princetown. On the basis of the weather so far, we would probably only have locked it on 5-7 nights this winter. We can easily place laminated ‘get out of jail free cards’ under the windscreen wipers of any cars that appear to be parking overnight on how to contact Mark for release. However, on the type of nights we are concerned about there is not much overnight parking anyway and any displaced parking would not be an issue as the car parking restriction introduced on the main road through Princetown only applies during the working day.
The Parish Council consider this proposal to be a minimal cost proportionate measure and I would be grateful if you reconsider.
Best wishes
Nigel
Hello again
We hope the intervention by the police will have the desired effect, although we do recognise that this can be temporary and can displace the problem elsewhere, so as I say, we will keep under review.
At Haytor, there is a resident who lives in a property directly behind the car park who has agreed to go out in the evening and lock the chain across the entrance, and then unlock again each morning. If there are vehicles parked into the evening, then he has to wait until they have left, so that they are not locked in.
The anti social behaviour has reduced, but has also shifted to the top car park ,and the boy racers are continuing to race up and down the road on the hill at Haytor, so it hasn’t entirely stopped the problem altogether.
At Princetown, we do allow overnight parking of vehicles in our car park ,so locking it would be problematical. There would need to be a local key holder and a notice to say where to go to or a phone number to ring to be released from the car park - I am sure whoever it was, would quickly get fed up with being disturbed late into the evening or early morning from people returning to their vehicles and wanting to leave.
If the car park is locked, there is also the potential for increased displaced car parking if people arrive early on, or if for whatever reason the car park isn’t opened promptly. Now that the car parking restriction introduced on the main road through Princetown (which was done at the request of the local community) is now operational, the potential for displaced parking increases if our car park isn’t available.
As I said earlier, we are keeping the car park issues under review, but I hope you will appreciate that locking the car park isn’t quite as simple a solution as it may first appear.
Regards
Andrew Watson
Head of Recreation, Access & Estates
6c South Devon Rural Housing response to Royal Court gritting letter
5. CAB Newsletter
Please find attached the latest Newsletter from Torridge, North, Mid and West Devon Citizens Advice Bureau. |
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4. Elections May 2015
Hello all, you will be aware that all town/parish councils will have elections on the 7th May 2015. I have put together a newsletter, which will be emailed to you later this week, which gives some basic details about the elections which you are welcome to forward to your councillors for their information. However, as promised, please find below some information for yourselves, as clerks, which I hope will be helpful.
Timetable
The timetable for the local elections can be found on our website at - http://www.westdevon.gov.uk/article/8558/Timetable-of-Events-2015
We are publishing our Notice of Election on the 25th March, which means we can accept Nomination Papers from the 26th March
Notices
Throughout the election period we will be sending you the various statutory notices which will need displaying prominently within your towns/parishes as soon as possible after you receive them – can I please apologise for this in advance!
Nomination Papers
I will send you a supply of nomination papers for each of your parishes (and warded parishes where appropriate) towards the beginning of March – I will give you enough for the number of your seats plus a couple extra. If you need more papers we will make them available to download and print from our website.
Nomination papers will be accepted from the 26th March until 4pm on the 9th April – this is a strict statutory deadline which cannot be flexible!
A change to legislation means that nomination papers must now be hand delivered, therefore, we will only be able to accept nomination papers which are hand delivered to our reception area at the West Devon Borough Council offices, Kilworthy Park, Tavistock within office hours. Nomination papers do not have to be hand delivered by the candidate themselves, they can appoint a responsible person to deliver it on their behalf. Therefore, you, as parish clerk, may offer to hand deliver papers on behalf of your councillors ..... I will leave that up to you to offer if you wish.
Informal checks – before we process nomination papers we will offer to do an informal check on the forms to try and minimise any invalid applications. Obviously, if there are any errors which need amending the candidate, in most cases, will have to do this themselves. Therefore, please advise them not to leave handing in the forms to the last minute as there may not be sufficient time to adjust any errors.
If a candidate applies to stand in two parishes (parish wards) they must withdraw from one of them before the deadline otherwise both nomination papers will become invalid.
No appointment will be necessary to hand in the local nomination papers, but please be aware that we will be operating a queuing system and apologise in advance for the busy times!
Electoral Registers
Candidates will be able to request a copy of the electoral register for the parish/warded parish they will be applying to stand in – this will help them to fill in the nomination where it asks for their electoral number and that of their assentors. However, under legislation, I can’t supply these until the Notice of Election is displayed (ie. 26th March), so they may come to you to ask for this information and if you are able to assist that would be much appreciated.
Please note that an elector may not subscribe more nominations than there are vacancies in the parish/parish ward.
Withdrawal of Nominations
Another change in legislation means that the deadline for withdrawal of nominations will be the same as the deadline for receipt of nominations, ie. 9th April at 4pm. In previous years, I am aware that people may have put themselves forward for nomination, thinking that there would not be enough candidates, but on finding there were sufficient numbers would later withdraw so that the election was not contested. Obviously, this will not be possible this time because the application and withdrawal deadline is the same. Obviously, although I will not be able to tell you who has put themselves forward for nomination before the 9th April, I have been advised that I could tell you how many have when the deadline is approaching.
Equally, please be aware that each town/parish will need to have sufficient numbers of nominations to ensure the town/parish council will be quorate. If there are insufficient numbers for a quorum, the election process continues until there are enough. If an election is needed to be held outside of the combination of elections on the 7th May, then the cost of the election will fall solely on the town/parish council.
Poll Cards
We will be sending a combined poll card this year, ie. the poll card will advise electors of the Parliamentary election and the Borough/Town/Parish if contested.
Verification and Count
The verification of the votes will take place in the Okehampton College Sports Hall over night on the 7th May. This will be a ticket only event as we will have to limit numbers because of the Parliamentary Election.
With regard to the count, obviously, the Parliamentary count will take place straight after the verification. The Borough Council count will take place on Friday 8th May and we will make a decision on when the Town/Parish count will take place as soon as we know how many areas are contested – hopefully it will be on the same day.
Candidates Expenses
Please note that all candidates will need to submit expense forms after the election whether they incurred costs or not. The deadline for receipt of these will be on the 12th June 2015.
Websites
Information on the local elections will be placed on our website as and when available – please, therefore, keep an eye on - http://www.westdevon.gov.uk/article/8561/Local-Elections-2015
Maps are also available of the new Borough wards, which will come into force at the election.
General information about voting can be found here - http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/
Information for candidates can be found here - http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/
Important Dates
Availability of Nomination Papers = approx. 9th March
Delivery of Nomination Papers = 26th March to 4pm on 9th April
Last date to Register to Vote = 20th April
Last date to register for a Postal Vote = 5pm on 21st April
Last date to register for a Proxy Vote = 5pm on 28th April
I think that is all (enough!) for now ................ obviously, if you have any queries please let me know and if I have anything else to share as we go through the next few weeks/months I will contact you.
Kind regards
Clare Chapman
Electoral Services Officer
West Devon Borough Council
Tel. 01822 813665
www.westdevon.gov.uk
Hello all, you will be aware that all town/parish councils will have elections on the 7th May 2015. I have put together a newsletter, which will be emailed to you later this week, which gives some basic details about the elections which you are welcome to forward to your councillors for their information. However, as promised, please find below some information for yourselves, as clerks, which I hope will be helpful.
Timetable
The timetable for the local elections can be found on our website at - http://www.westdevon.gov.uk/article/8558/Timetable-of-Events-2015
We are publishing our Notice of Election on the 25th March, which means we can accept Nomination Papers from the 26th March
Notices
Throughout the election period we will be sending you the various statutory notices which will need displaying prominently within your towns/parishes as soon as possible after you receive them – can I please apologise for this in advance!
Nomination Papers
I will send you a supply of nomination papers for each of your parishes (and warded parishes where appropriate) towards the beginning of March – I will give you enough for the number of your seats plus a couple extra. If you need more papers we will make them available to download and print from our website.
Nomination papers will be accepted from the 26th March until 4pm on the 9th April – this is a strict statutory deadline which cannot be flexible!
A change to legislation means that nomination papers must now be hand delivered, therefore, we will only be able to accept nomination papers which are hand delivered to our reception area at the West Devon Borough Council offices, Kilworthy Park, Tavistock within office hours. Nomination papers do not have to be hand delivered by the candidate themselves, they can appoint a responsible person to deliver it on their behalf. Therefore, you, as parish clerk, may offer to hand deliver papers on behalf of your councillors ..... I will leave that up to you to offer if you wish.
Informal checks – before we process nomination papers we will offer to do an informal check on the forms to try and minimise any invalid applications. Obviously, if there are any errors which need amending the candidate, in most cases, will have to do this themselves. Therefore, please advise them not to leave handing in the forms to the last minute as there may not be sufficient time to adjust any errors.
If a candidate applies to stand in two parishes (parish wards) they must withdraw from one of them before the deadline otherwise both nomination papers will become invalid.
No appointment will be necessary to hand in the local nomination papers, but please be aware that we will be operating a queuing system and apologise in advance for the busy times!
Electoral Registers
Candidates will be able to request a copy of the electoral register for the parish/warded parish they will be applying to stand in – this will help them to fill in the nomination where it asks for their electoral number and that of their assentors. However, under legislation, I can’t supply these until the Notice of Election is displayed (ie. 26th March), so they may come to you to ask for this information and if you are able to assist that would be much appreciated.
Please note that an elector may not subscribe more nominations than there are vacancies in the parish/parish ward.
Withdrawal of Nominations
Another change in legislation means that the deadline for withdrawal of nominations will be the same as the deadline for receipt of nominations, ie. 9th April at 4pm. In previous years, I am aware that people may have put themselves forward for nomination, thinking that there would not be enough candidates, but on finding there were sufficient numbers would later withdraw so that the election was not contested. Obviously, this will not be possible this time because the application and withdrawal deadline is the same. Obviously, although I will not be able to tell you who has put themselves forward for nomination before the 9th April, I have been advised that I could tell you how many have when the deadline is approaching.
Equally, please be aware that each town/parish will need to have sufficient numbers of nominations to ensure the town/parish council will be quorate. If there are insufficient numbers for a quorum, the election process continues until there are enough. If an election is needed to be held outside of the combination of elections on the 7th May, then the cost of the election will fall solely on the town/parish council.
Poll Cards
We will be sending a combined poll card this year, ie. the poll card will advise electors of the Parliamentary election and the Borough/Town/Parish if contested.
Verification and Count
The verification of the votes will take place in the Okehampton College Sports Hall over night on the 7th May. This will be a ticket only event as we will have to limit numbers because of the Parliamentary Election.
With regard to the count, obviously, the Parliamentary count will take place straight after the verification. The Borough Council count will take place on Friday 8th May and we will make a decision on when the Town/Parish count will take place as soon as we know how many areas are contested – hopefully it will be on the same day.
Candidates Expenses
Please note that all candidates will need to submit expense forms after the election whether they incurred costs or not. The deadline for receipt of these will be on the 12th June 2015.
Websites
Information on the local elections will be placed on our website as and when available – please, therefore, keep an eye on - http://www.westdevon.gov.uk/article/8561/Local-Elections-2015
Maps are also available of the new Borough wards, which will come into force at the election.
General information about voting can be found here - http://www.aboutmyvote.co.uk/
Information for candidates can be found here - http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/
Important Dates
Availability of Nomination Papers = approx. 9th March
Delivery of Nomination Papers = 26th March to 4pm on 9th April
Last date to Register to Vote = 20th April
Last date to register for a Postal Vote = 5pm on 21st April
Last date to register for a Proxy Vote = 5pm on 28th April
I think that is all (enough!) for now ................ obviously, if you have any queries please let me know and if I have anything else to share as we go through the next few weeks/months I will contact you.
Kind regards
Clare Chapman
Electoral Services Officer
West Devon Borough Council
Tel. 01822 813665
www.westdevon.gov.uk
3. Swincombe Fairy Bridge
As you may be aware, the timber footbridge over the River Swincombe, near Sherberton Farm, (known locally as Fairy Bridge) was damaged during last year’s storms. Following an inspection by engineers, the bridge was deemed to be unsafe for use and was subsequently removed from site.
The National Park Authority is working with Devon County Council to arrange installation of a replacement bridge. Over the last few months we have been obtaining the various permissions necessary to undertake the work, which are now all in place. Works on site are due to commence next week, which will be some enabling works to consolidate the existing granite abutments. This work will be carried out sensitively so that the external appearance of existing granite boulders is retained, but with a strengthened concrete core.
The fabrication of a like for like replacement timber bridge is underway with our supplier and installation on site will follow in due course. Peter Rich our ranger is project managing the works on site with DCC and once we are clearer on timescales for the construction phase, we will be in touch.
In the meantime, if you have any questions ,please let me know. Alternatively Peter can be contacted on 07730 064470 or email [email protected]
Andrew Watson
Head of Recreation, Access & Estates
01626 831057
[email protected]
As you may be aware, the timber footbridge over the River Swincombe, near Sherberton Farm, (known locally as Fairy Bridge) was damaged during last year’s storms. Following an inspection by engineers, the bridge was deemed to be unsafe for use and was subsequently removed from site.
The National Park Authority is working with Devon County Council to arrange installation of a replacement bridge. Over the last few months we have been obtaining the various permissions necessary to undertake the work, which are now all in place. Works on site are due to commence next week, which will be some enabling works to consolidate the existing granite abutments. This work will be carried out sensitively so that the external appearance of existing granite boulders is retained, but with a strengthened concrete core.
The fabrication of a like for like replacement timber bridge is underway with our supplier and installation on site will follow in due course. Peter Rich our ranger is project managing the works on site with DCC and once we are clearer on timescales for the construction phase, we will be in touch.
In the meantime, if you have any questions ,please let me know. Alternatively Peter can be contacted on 07730 064470 or email [email protected]
Andrew Watson
Head of Recreation, Access & Estates
01626 831057
[email protected]
2. Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment Report
Please find below link to the web page for Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA); the completed 2014 SHLAA Report has now been published on this page.
The consideration of land can be a controversial and divisive process, it is therefore important to understand what SHLAA is. The SHLAA process does not make any decisions about whether land should be developed, it is a technical process to consider whether land could be developed. There is therefore not an opportunity for public comment in the process, as this will come at a later point in time, as part of the Local Plan review process, and any subsequent planning applications.
We are sharing the completed report in order to be open with the public about the land which has been submitted for assessment, we also recognise that as this process moves forward it may be of interest to those engaged in Neighbourhood or Community Plan work.
I would therefore be grateful if you could read the information contained in this email.
Background - what is SHLAA?
The SHLAA is a technical exercise to help identify possible land that could have potential for housing, employment and traveller uses. It enables a Local Planning Authority to ensure there is enough land for new homes to meet the needs of communities. The requirement for SHLAA is set out in the National Planning Policy Framework.
SHLAA identifies whether these potential sites are developable, how much development could be accommodated on them and whether they could be delivered within 5, 10 or 15 year time frames. The SHLAA examines sites we already know about (for example sites already allocated in the local plan) as well as new sites generated by the recent 'call for sites'. Sites have been reviewed by the SHLAA Panel including members of the commercial and development industry - further details on the Panel are included in the methodology.
As this is a technical process the review of sites is not open for public consultation - there would be opportunities for community involvement in the consideration of sites as part of the local plan review process, and any subsequent planning applications.
The SHLAA is not a policy making document. It does not decide where new development will take place. The decisions about how many new homes are built and where will be taken in the Local Plan. Therefore, whilst the assessment will help inform future plans, it will not determine whether a site should be allocated for future development or granted planning permission.
It is important to remember that under the Local Plan opportunities for open market housing are far more restricted and there is a focus on providing affordable housing to meet identified local needs. Whilst some communities have a large amount of land through SHLAA this does not mean this will be developed, it does mean that should we need land for development in the future we have a range to choose from.
What happens next?
This report will form background evidence as we start work on reviewing the Local Plan in 2015. It is at this point that we will start to consider whether any of these sites may be suitable to include in the next local plan, and will start community engagement in that process.
The report is available at: http://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/planning/pl-forwardplanning/pl-localdevframework/forward_planning_ldf_evidence/shlaa
If you have any queries regarding SHLAA please contact myself or Dan Janota ([email protected]).
Regards,
Chloe Nielsen
Assistant Planning Officer (Forward Planning)
Dartmoor National Park Authority
Please find below link to the web page for Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA); the completed 2014 SHLAA Report has now been published on this page.
The consideration of land can be a controversial and divisive process, it is therefore important to understand what SHLAA is. The SHLAA process does not make any decisions about whether land should be developed, it is a technical process to consider whether land could be developed. There is therefore not an opportunity for public comment in the process, as this will come at a later point in time, as part of the Local Plan review process, and any subsequent planning applications.
We are sharing the completed report in order to be open with the public about the land which has been submitted for assessment, we also recognise that as this process moves forward it may be of interest to those engaged in Neighbourhood or Community Plan work.
I would therefore be grateful if you could read the information contained in this email.
Background - what is SHLAA?
The SHLAA is a technical exercise to help identify possible land that could have potential for housing, employment and traveller uses. It enables a Local Planning Authority to ensure there is enough land for new homes to meet the needs of communities. The requirement for SHLAA is set out in the National Planning Policy Framework.
SHLAA identifies whether these potential sites are developable, how much development could be accommodated on them and whether they could be delivered within 5, 10 or 15 year time frames. The SHLAA examines sites we already know about (for example sites already allocated in the local plan) as well as new sites generated by the recent 'call for sites'. Sites have been reviewed by the SHLAA Panel including members of the commercial and development industry - further details on the Panel are included in the methodology.
As this is a technical process the review of sites is not open for public consultation - there would be opportunities for community involvement in the consideration of sites as part of the local plan review process, and any subsequent planning applications.
The SHLAA is not a policy making document. It does not decide where new development will take place. The decisions about how many new homes are built and where will be taken in the Local Plan. Therefore, whilst the assessment will help inform future plans, it will not determine whether a site should be allocated for future development or granted planning permission.
It is important to remember that under the Local Plan opportunities for open market housing are far more restricted and there is a focus on providing affordable housing to meet identified local needs. Whilst some communities have a large amount of land through SHLAA this does not mean this will be developed, it does mean that should we need land for development in the future we have a range to choose from.
What happens next?
This report will form background evidence as we start work on reviewing the Local Plan in 2015. It is at this point that we will start to consider whether any of these sites may be suitable to include in the next local plan, and will start community engagement in that process.
The report is available at: http://www.dartmoor.gov.uk/planning/pl-forwardplanning/pl-localdevframework/forward_planning_ldf_evidence/shlaa
If you have any queries regarding SHLAA please contact myself or Dan Janota ([email protected]).
Regards,
Chloe Nielsen
Assistant Planning Officer (Forward Planning)
Dartmoor National Park Authority
1. Plymouth Gran Fondo cycle event
At last months meeting concerns were raised about the The Plymouth Gran Fondo cycle event. In fact, this event does not come into the Parish. Routes are below for information.
Plymouth Gran Fondo cycle Route
It's a tough ride, we'll be honest from the start. 160km of riding (100 miles in old money) that takes you out of the city and up onto Dartmoor, from there you'll descend into the Tamar Valley before climbing across the border into Cornwall and heading past Kit Hill and onto towards Liskeard. You'll pedal out to the coast and work your way back along the Cornish coastline, through fishing villages and cliff tops, crossing the timing mat on the banks of the Tamar at Torpoint. From there you'll ride an untimed section back to Sutton Harbour where you can relax and collect your rider's medal.
Stats: Distance: 160km, Climbing: 3500m, Feed/Tech Zones : Every 50km Entry limit; 1000 riders
Entry fee to the Gran Fondo is £30
The Piccolo Route
It's a taste of the Gran Fondo but without the heart attack. Around 60km with all of the climbing at the start and a lovely gradual downhill all of the way home. You'll get up onto Dartmoor, head to historic Buckland Abbey (home of Sir Francis Drake) and quick food stop before following Drake's trail all the way back to the sea to collect your medal. If you're not a confident rider then don't worry, we'll have pacemakers in the group to help you get to the end.
Entry fee to the Piccolo is £20
At last months meeting concerns were raised about the The Plymouth Gran Fondo cycle event. In fact, this event does not come into the Parish. Routes are below for information.
Plymouth Gran Fondo cycle Route
It's a tough ride, we'll be honest from the start. 160km of riding (100 miles in old money) that takes you out of the city and up onto Dartmoor, from there you'll descend into the Tamar Valley before climbing across the border into Cornwall and heading past Kit Hill and onto towards Liskeard. You'll pedal out to the coast and work your way back along the Cornish coastline, through fishing villages and cliff tops, crossing the timing mat on the banks of the Tamar at Torpoint. From there you'll ride an untimed section back to Sutton Harbour where you can relax and collect your rider's medal.
Stats: Distance: 160km, Climbing: 3500m, Feed/Tech Zones : Every 50km Entry limit; 1000 riders
Entry fee to the Gran Fondo is £30
The Piccolo Route
It's a taste of the Gran Fondo but without the heart attack. Around 60km with all of the climbing at the start and a lovely gradual downhill all of the way home. You'll get up onto Dartmoor, head to historic Buckland Abbey (home of Sir Francis Drake) and quick food stop before following Drake's trail all the way back to the sea to collect your medal. If you're not a confident rider then don't worry, we'll have pacemakers in the group to help you get to the end.
Entry fee to the Piccolo is £20