Parish Council Update – What’s Been Happening in Our Village?
There’s been plenty to discuss at Parish Council, so here’s a little round-up of the latest news, updates and a few things to keep on our radar.
● Footpath to Limeslake (Footpath 2): the bridge is still closed for repairs, with a new expected completion date of 4th December 2026.
● Back Lane to Oakford Villas: the weeds have been cleared by North Devon Homes, but the gullies still need attention. Cllr Darley is also arranging for overhanging vegetation from neighbouring land to be cut back.
● Northland Cross: concerns about the placement of the sign have been reported to Highways, who are investigating.
● Hollywell Meadows: good news! The street lights are now working. The interactive speed sign is being a little temperamental, though, and this has been reported.
● Heasley Mill: the missing village sign will be raised with County at the next Highways team meeting.
Defibrillator update - There’s currently a global shortage of pads for certain defibrillator models. The paediatric pads for The Poltimore are on back order, and the adult pads expire in December. Council discussed purchasing two replacement sets of pads at around £140 each — one ready for December and another spare in case the shortage continues. Better to be prepared!
Dog poo bins & village tidiness
We know this topic gets people talking! Council discussed dog waste bins and agreed that, given the cost of installing and regularly emptying them, they aren’t justified at present. The expectation is that dog owners take their poo bags home and dispose of them in their black bin. Please do your bit to keep our village looking lovely. Village tidiness and general maintenance were also discussed as part of the budget conversations.
A footpath request. The possibility of a footpath between the top of Broad Close and Jubilee Gardens was raised by a parishioner. Unfortunately, the land is privately owned and, even if that weren’t an issue, the cost would be beyond the Parish Council’s budget.
A big thank you. At the meeting, the Chair thanked Sir Richard Peek, who is standing down after many years of service to the Parish in various roles, most recently as Chairman. We’re grateful for the time, commitment and hard work he has given to our community. Thank you, Richard!
The latest Parish Forum attended by the Chair, Innes Milne, covered Community Emergency Hubs and the Local Government Review — important topics as we look at how our communities can be supported in the future.
That’s the latest from your Parish Council. Thank you to everyone who takes the time to raise concerns, share ideas and help make our parish a better place to live. Don't forget, we are always looking for volunteers to help with various activities.
Have a question or something you’d like the Council to know? Please get in touch — we’re always keen to hear from residents. Why not come along to one of the Meet Your Council events in the Community Shop?
Many thanks
Cllr Rachel Beaman