Mayor’s Report
The Mayor highlighted his attendance at Remembrance events in Bude and Stratton and his involvement in marking Armistice Day. He also expressed gratitude to staff for organising a successful visit by HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh to The Castle.
Cornwall Councillor Report
Cornwall Councillor La Broy provided updates on various topics, including inheritance tax changes for farmers, the introduction of a recycling centre booking system and ongoing repairs to the Lower Wharf in Bude. He also addressed progress on walking and cycling path improvements, local homelessness issues, The Young People’s Symposium and additional Council Tax measures for second homes.
Minutes
The minutes of the Full Council meeting held on 7 November 2024 were approved. Minutes from Planning, Cultural & Heritage, Facilities & Environmental Services and Corporate & Democratic Services Committees were received and noted. A recommendation from the Facilities & Environmental Committee to permit Bude FC (Youth) exclusive use of the land adjacent to the Pitch and Putt for Sunday league matches, subject to a 12-month trial and a suitable licence agreement, was approved.
Hele Valley Project Support
The Council agreed to support the Marhamchurch Parish Council’s application to the National Lottery Heritage Fund for the Hele Valley Project by providing a letter of endorsement.
Lords Court
After extensive discussion, the Council resolved to approve a plan to repair the ceiling of the existing shop at 1 Lords Court and repurpose Stratton toilet block to house the local shop and Post Office. The remaining portion of 1 Lords Court would then be sold on the open market as an empty building. This decision and subsequent plans are subject to a pre-application being submitted to Cornwall Council’s planning department to determine feasibility.
Wheeled Sports Facility
The Council received an update on the Wheeled Sports Facility project, including challenges around biodiversity net gain requirements. It was also resolved to re-consult the Skatepark Users Group on the facility’s options, with a report expected by February 2025.
Youth Facility
Updates were provided on the Youth Symposium and an upcoming Open Day. Cornwall Council has also established a youth steering group.
Coastal Transition Accelerator Project (CTAP)
Progress was reported on the CTAP business case, which has been submitted to the Environment Agency by Cornwall Council. A decision on its approval is expected soon.
Compass Point Project
The Council was informed of maintenance work required for the Compass Point project, including resecuring the time capsule base plate, straightening the flagpole and reseeding bare soil. Completion is anticipated by the end of the financial year.
Public Conveniences
The Council discussed the future of public conveniences in the parish following Cornwall Council’s decision to end budgetary support in 2025/26. A Working Group will be established to explore options and report back to the Facilities & Environmental Services Committee.
Movements of Reserves
The Council approved the movement of reserves as presented.
Lead Councillor Updates
No additional updates were provided, as youth provision was covered earlier in the meeting.
Next Meeting
The next Full Council meeting will be held on 12 December 2024 and will be focused on the budget setting for 2025/26.
