Shincliffe Parish Council

CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 2005/2006

Council Change

There were no changes in the membership of the Council in 2004/05, which met monthly throughout the year (except in August). Mrs H Simpson continued to serve as Parish Clerk.

The Parish Plan and Community Activities

There was encouraging support from residents for some of the action groups formed to implement the Parish Plan. Weekly Youth Club meetings started in late January and now attract 20+ young people (12-15 years old). Our twice yearly litter picks now have a team of 12-14 helpers who manage to collect an increasing amount of debris from the roadside verges. Sparks (Shincliffe Parks Action Group) is continuing with its plans for improving the parish recreation grounds and is likely to launch a major fund raising effort over the next year. The Transport and Traffic group has worked closely with the County Council in dealing with parking, speeding and bus services problems; while the road and pavements group has kept up its thankless tasks of getting roads, pavements and steps repaired and maintained.

The Shincliffe Show 2004 was a resounding success, and it to be repeated in 2005 (10th September). A new dramatic section of the Community Association was formed, initially to present a Winter pantomime in February 2005. This too was very well supported.

Thanks to all who contributed in these activities.

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Horticulture

The Committee worked hard to improve the floral displays and upkeep of the grassed areas. The City Council was persuaded to plant replacement trees and shrubs in Lindisfarne, High Shincliffe and to improve the grass cutting. Spring and summer gardening competitions were organised and will continue in 2005. These efforts were rewarded by our winning The Best Small Village Award in the Durham Cit/Britain in Bloom Competition.

Website and E-Mail

The Parish Council now has its own e-mail address (shincliffeparishcouncil@yahoo.co.uk) and a website in conjunction with the Community Association (www.shincliffe.org.uk/ParishCouncil).

Crime

The level of crime reported in the parish area over the year was low. PC Cockburn attended Council meetings regularly and patrolled the parish on foot and by car. However malicious damage to bus shelters and telephone kiosks continued to be a problem.

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Finance

The balance brought forward at the start of 2004/2005 was £17,142.13 and is now (April 2005) £14737.70. Income for the year amounted to £9612.00 and expenditure was £12016.43. There was increased spending on supporting community activities, horticulture and improving pathways.

The Parish Precept for 2005/06 has been increased to £14.21 for a Band D property.

In Conclusion

Thanks to the Clerk and councillors for their support throughout the year, to all who contributed to the various community activities, and a special word of thanks to PC Bruce Cockburn for his efforts on our behalf.

John Hudson
April 2005 Chairman