1. Apologies for Absence
Cllr Adrienne Marriot
2. Declaration of Interests
None
- Councillor's declaration of interest appropriate to any item on the agenda.
- To receive written requests for dispensations for disclosable pecuniary interest (if any)
- To grant any requests for dispensations as appropriate.
- Co-option of parish councillor(s) to sign declaration of acceptance.
3. Public Forum
- To receive the report from the County Councillor –
- To receive the report from the District Councillor – see attached
- To receive questions from members of the public - The bridleway over Chalk Hill Lane has been closed because the surface has been deemed unsafe. The problem appears to be damage to the lane surface, which could pose a risk to walkers, cyclists, and horse riders. The issue is currently being investigated by the Rights of Way & Access team within the Highways and Infrastructure Directorate at Suffolk County Council. The council will assess the extent of the damage before deciding on the appropriate repair work and when the route can reopen.
4. Approval of Minutes
To approve the Draft Minutes of the Meeting of the Council held on 12th February 2026. Approved
5. Clerk's Update
A response was received from the land agent regarding the land on Stowmarket Road. The agent advised that the annual rent would be approximately £400. However, the landowner had previously intimated that the figure may be nearer £200. It was agreed that the Clerk would contact the agent to discuss whether any further reduction in the rent may be possible.
6. Planning
- To consider the following planning applications.
| MS/221/76/V OC | Broomfield Depot, Lafarge Aggregates Ltd, Lower Crescent, Barham, Suffolk, IP6 0PF | Variation of Condition 9. Operating Hours of planning permission |
|---|---|---|
| PC comment date extended to 13th March 2026. |
Objection - Great Blakenham Parish Council considered planning application MS/221/76/VOC (variation of operating hours at Broomfield Depot, Lafarge Aggregates Ltd) and resolved to object. The Council raised concerns that the proposal could increase HGV movements through Great Blakenham and surrounding villages, particularly via Stowmarket Road and Bramford Road, worsening traffic congestion, road deterioration, noise, dust, and air quality. Members also noted the potential for traffic diversion during A14 closures and questioned whether the application adequately addresses cumulative impacts, extended operating hours, and mitigation measures. In the absence of robust evidence that these issues can be managed, the Council considers the proposal unacceptable.
7. Growth, Highways, and Infrastructure
- Suffolk Highways Survey – Approved clerk to complete survey
- Gipping Footpath - The Parish Council has been made aware, via email and social media, that two individuals have sustained broken legs while using the Gipping River footpath. A suggestion was raised regarding the possibility of improvements or the installation of a boardwalk to enhance safety. The Council emphasizes that it takes safety matters very seriously. However, as the footpath is on private land, there is limited action the Council can take directly. It is therefore recommended that the matter be discussed with the private landowner to determine whether they would be willing to implement any safety improvements. While the Council is unable to provide financial support for such measures, it is happy to support initiatives that raise awareness of the potential dangers of using the footpath.
- S106 – Port One have still not provided an update on the Bus Transport. Clerk to chase for an update.
- Port One - Joint parish meeting will be held on 23 March 2026 at Endeavour House. Representatives from Ecology, Highways, and Landscaping will be in attendance to discuss the proposed planning application. The meeting will discuss aspects of the proposal, including environmental impact, transport considerations, and landscape design. Updates will follow.
- Piip Update – Cllr Kemp is currently working on this project. Updates of progress will follow at a later date.
- Pot holes – Some potholes that had previously been filled on the B113 have reopened. Cllr Chambers is aware of the issue and will notify the relevant department for further action.
8. Governance
- Policy Reviews – Reserves policy approved
9. Village Maintenance
- Note Meadow Management – Noted
- Note Litter/dog waste collection price increase. – Noted
- Speed indication device – A new solar panel has been installed on the device; however, it is still awaiting a replacement battery before it can be fully operational.
10. Allotments
- Sheds – Two sheds, along with water butts, have been sold to plot holders in preparation for the clearance of the allotment site.
11. Finance
- To consider approving and making the following payments – Approved
| Payroll | Bacs | Payroll ending 28th Feb 2026 | £1075.83 | LGA 1972 s111 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SCC | Bacs | Lantern replacement, unit 59 Mill Lane Inv 9565755 | £576.00 | LGA 1972 s111 |
| SCC | Bacs | Lantern replacement units 81/83/84 Stowmarket road Inv 9560760 | £2862.00 | LGA 1972 s111 |
| Shades | Bacs | Grounds Maintenance as per tender - 2822 | £758.33 | LGA 1972 s111 |
| Shades | Bacs | Street cleaning as per tender - 2823 | £1275.33 | LGA 1972 s111 |
| Shades | Bacs | Bus shelter, signs, notice boards as per tender – 2824 | £485.33 | LGA 1972 s111 |
| Nest Pension | DD | Month 11 ending 28.02.2026 | £53.99 | LGA 1972 s111 |
| Three | DD | Mobile phone contracts | £33.98 | LGA 1972 s111 |
| Unity Bank | DD | Service charge 01.1.2026 – 31.01.2026 | £6.00 | LGA 1972 s111 |
| Lloyds bank | DD | Monthly Card Charges | £3.00 | LGA 1972 s111 |
| Headway Charity | Bacs | Donation | £500 | LGA 1972 s137 |
| Citizens Advice | Bacs | Donation | £500 | LGA 1972 s137 |
| Mid Suffolk Women's Aid | Bacs | Donation | £500 | LGA 1972 s137 |
| Suffolk Oxygen Therapy Centre | Bacs | Donation | £500 | LGA 1972 s137 |
| Communities Together | Bacs | Donation | £500 | LGA 1972 s137 |
Income received @ 28.02.2026
- Cemetery Fees - £720.00
- Allotment Shed - £50.00
- Total £770.00
Bank Balance @ 28.02.2026
- Unity Trust Current Account Balance - £20,498.91
- Unity Trust Saver Account Balance - £165,951.79
- Total - £186,450.70
12. Reports
Village Hall Update - The Village Hall has filed its accounts on time. Bookings remain strong, and the overall outlook is positive. The representative for the Cycle Speedway Club has stood down, and a new representative is required. The Hall is seeking volunteers for ground maintenance, bar work, and other necessary tasks. A food pantry initiative is currently being trialled.