Ernie Clark. Hilperton Division, Wiltshire Council.

Staverton Parish Council changes its policy on the church.
"Churchyard Maintenance – Cllr. Figures said that he was concerned that most of the cost of the grass cutting in the village involved maintaining St Paul’s churchyard and this was unfair on the majority of the parishioners who have no connection with the church. As the Council has a strict budget and limited finances, he felt that as Rev. Ball was happy to organise work parties to maintain the Churchyard, then this would be a sensible option.

Cllr. Figures proposed that the Parish Council cease maintaining the churchyard, Cllr. Matthews seconded. Cllrs. Nye and Heeks opposed and the motion was carried by a majority.

Action: Cllr. Figures to contact Rev. Ball and the Clerk to contact the grass cutting contractor to cease cutting the churchyard. The Parish Council to monitor the situation."

I wasn't present at the time this motion was proposed, but it will be interesting to see what re-action the Parish Council gets from its contractor. Personally, I would tell the PC that, as they've entered into a contract to cut x amount of grass, that is what I will do.

The matter also rasies an interesting aspect of the PC Standing Orders. Once something has been agreed (in this case the 09/10 budget) most councils require a signed request from at least six councillors to discuss the item again within six months. I guess that Staverton PC has a different ruling?

Personally, I think it's a pity that a facility open for all to use is expected to be maintained by the church. What would residents say if they found the church gates locked when they wanted to go for a few minutes peace and quiet sitting down overlooking the field below them? But then again, I don't pay my council tax to Staverton PC ...