Agenda item

To receive and consider the confidential report of the Town Clerk/C.E.O.

The Committee received and considered the confidential report of the Town Clerk/C.E.O.

Members were updated on the situation with the Witney Allotment Association, previously discussed at the Halls, Cemeteries & Allotments Committee, funding for the St Mary’s Clock and Carillon, maintenance of which fell to the Town Council as it held the power to maintain under the Parish Councils Act 1957.

It had been recommended the Witney Allotment Association should separate into two associations following its next AGM. Further information was required from the Diocese of Oxford’s Clock Officer regarding the clock and carillon. There were differing views on how to proceed with the matter but a budget was required for maintenance in the new financial year.

The Committee was also provided with updates on lease negotiations with Courtside Hubs CIC, Witney Lawn Tennis Club, West Oxfordshire District Council and ICE Centre, supporting the decision to fund repairs to the roof of Langdale Hall as a priority from earmarked reserves at this stage.

There were further updates on planning at West Witney Sports & Social Club, Windrush Place pitches and pavilion and other ongoing legal or insurance matters.

Finally, the Committee received the minutes of the Community Governance Review Task & Finish Group meeting held on 14 October 2024.

Resolved:

1.      That, the report be noted and,

2.      That, the recommendation of the Halls, Cemeteries and Allotments Committee to provide two leases for the split in allotment management be supported and,

3.      That, a budget for St Mary’s Clock be set at £5,000, this being funded from an Infrastructure earmarked reserve and,

4.      That, officers proceed with the required roof work at Langdale Hall, to be funded by the Council’s earmarked reserve set aside for building efficiencies and,

5.      That, the minutes of the Community Governance Review Task & Finish Group held on 14 October 2024 be agreed and the options therein be approved.