Stinchcombe Parish Council Meeting

9th July 2025

My informal notes from last nights Parish Council meeting that I attended along with SDC Cllr Braun and SDC/GCC Cllr Cohen.

Normal meeting formalities. Two members of the public present to give verbal reports later in the meeting.

A few matters were discussed from previous meetings; playground signs, rota for the swings, mowing. Minutes from the council’s previous meeting were approved.

The Council to received the SDC District Councillors' report and a verbal update for Cllr Cohen's report an earlier version here

It was discussed that holiday to-do links were publicised. I think this was the one referred to:- https://familyhubs.gloucestershire.gov.uk/

Also regarding LGR (Local Government Reorganisation) there is a new future gloucestershire media-rich micro site available for information and links through to a residents survey.

Most important was the news that Rushmire Hill reopened on Friday 4th July. Roads on the diversion routes will be checked for wear and repaired as required.

We have a new bus service to Yate, the Y8, also known as the Yate Link, and is due to extend its route into Wotton-under-Edge starting from August 31. The new administration is keen to reduce speeds to 20mph where communities live and work, where there is support from parish councils.

Then followed report from Clerk and verbal reports from councillors. Re-installation of the noticeboard - insurance approved quote and work in hand.

No planning applications to consider this month.

Then some updates from the various working Groups

Kath Hudson gave an update for the Environment and Biodiversity Group;

10th Aug bio blitz. identify flora and fauna - interesting activities, collect data that can be used by professionals. Small mammal foot prints, tunnels etc. for kids. Treasure hunt and activity etc. Asked if the Council could fund catering £100 for the event and payment methods discussed.

The Footpaths Group is focusing on meeting land owners and building relationships. They are focusing on the better used paths to start with.

Community Recreational Space (incl. Children’s Play Area). I think there was a soft opening yesterday after school finished. The official opening is set for 12 noon with a blessing on the 7th Sept. Press coverage, bring a picnic.

A checklist is required for the swings at DRFC. There was a meeting - about village of the year - trying to use a springboard for other activity in the village.

Speedwatch and Road Safety Matters.

20mph limits is a hot topic at GCC with the new administration, there was discussion, but didn't catch if thought viable on the main route.

The current speed routine ticking over. Vehicle activated signs that display your speed are being moved between locations. The Council is reporting the10 worst speeders to the police on a monthly basis. Average speed is decreasing each month and 85th percentile reducing. Taits Hill speeds reducing.

Call for meeting with parish councillors to try and agree strategy. The 'VAS' is out of warranty but they now know what it can and can't do. Good to for collecting data. Speed cameras are more promising. Solar power needs good location.

Updates on the Village Hall building works and agree any actions. Charlie gave an update. Objections to the plans caused great disruption to the project. Lost 14 weeks and the builder. The roof issues have been overcome with a solution that conforms to the original plans. Sadly a completion date of Oct-Nov was mooted. Now needs grant as short of money. It was questioned if the Council representative, on the committee is required to become a trustee.

Myself, Cllr. Braun and Cohen left the meeting at this point for yet another 'street-meet' to catch up on a myriad of other issues.