Agenda and draft minutes

The Chairman informed those present of the actions required in the event of a fire or emergency.

a.  To receive any declarations from Members of any registerable (5A of the Code of Conduct) and/or non-registerable (5B) interests in matters to be considered at this meeting.

b.  The Town Clerk to receive written requests for dispensations prior to the start of the meeting for consideration.

a.  To receive any declarations from Members of any registerable (5A of the Code of Conduct) and/or non-registerable (5B) interests in matters to be considered at this meeting.

None received.

b.  The Town Clerk to receive written requests for dispensations prior to the start of the meeting for consideration.

None received.

Please note: Any member of the public requiring to put a question to the Town Council must do so by email or via The Guildhall no later than 12 noon the day before the meeting.

Members of the public are advised to review the Receiving Public Questions, Representations and Evidence at Meetings document prior to attending the meeting.

The Chairman confirmed a public question had been received.

In the absence of the resident who submitted the question, the Town Clerk read the question aloud in accordance with the Town Council’s Public Question Policy.

As the public question related to Agenda Item 24, To receive a draft letter to Cornwall Council on the sale of Burraton Field and to consider any actions, the Chairman announced that Agenda Item 24 would be brought forward and that the response to the public question would be taken under that item.

The Chairman welcomed members of the Town Council Working Group to provide a verbal update on the draft letter concerning the sale of Burraton Field received and circulated within the reports pack.

Councillor Miller provided a verbal summary of the content of the letter and proposed the inclusion of additional wording to apply pressure on Cornwall Council, and those responsible for the decision, to meet with the Town Council.

This was sought in order to address legal concerns raised regarding the sale, including matters highlighted by residents such as the land address stated on Cornwall Council’s Section 123(2A) Notice of Disposal and potential discrepancies regarding the statutory trust.

Members requested that it also be added that, to date, the process followed and the responses received have given rise to fundamental concerns relating to transparency, governance, confidence in public decision?making, the relationship between Cornwall Council, the Town Council, and the wider community.

It was noted that the Working Group has, at this stage, focused on reviewing the process and has been mindful of the need for caution in the expression of opinions; however, Members stated that they had no confidence in the process undertaken by Cornwall Council in relation to the sale of the land and agreed that it was necessary to seek clarity on the matter.

Members agreed that the letter represented a good starting point but felt that further pressure should be applied to Cornwall Council to arrange a meeting with the Town Council as a matter of urgency.

Members formally thanked the many residents, including Stephen Jensen who submitted a public question, for the work undertaken to date, including challenges raised with Cornwall Council and the submission of unanswered Freedom of Information requests, noting that these matters have been referred to the Ombudsman who has confirmed that Cornwall Council acted inappropriately.

Members discussed the potential need to obtain legal advice and agreed that, to avoid any further delay should such advice be required, delegated authority be granted to the Town Clerk to take appropriate action if necessary.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Miller, seconded by Councillor Ashburn and RESOLVED that:

1.  Authority be delegated to the Town Clerk, working with the Working Group, to amend the letter in accordance with this evenings discussion and to submit it to Cornwall Council as a matter of urgency regarding the sale of Burraton Field;

2.  Authority be delegated to the Town Clerk to seek legal advice, should it be required, working within budget code 6224 PF Legal & Professional Fees.

Please see a copy of the minutes on the STC website or request to see a copy at the Guildhall.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Ashburn, seconded by Councillor Nowlan and RESOLVED that the minutes of the Full Town Council Meeting held on 5 March 2026 were confirmed as a true and correct record.

Please see a copy of the minutes on the STC website or request to see a copy at the Guildhall.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Bullock, seconded by Councillor Gillies and RESOLVED that the minutes of the Extraordinary Full Town Council Meeting held on 19 March 2026 were confirmed as a true and correct record.

a.  Policy and Finance Committee held on 10 March 2026;

It was RESOLVED to note the minutes and consider the following recommendations.

RECOMMENDATION 1:

319/25/26 TO RECEIVE A REPORT ON ASSERTION 10 COMPLIANCE AND CONSIDER ANY ACTIONS AND ASSOCIATED EXPENDITURE.

At the invitation of the Chairman, the Town Clerk provided Members with an overview of the report contained and circulated in the reports pack and explained that Assertion 10 was a new requirement in the 2025 Practitioners’ Guide for the Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR), focusing on digital governance, data protection, and website accessibility.

The Town Clerk explained that whilst the Town Council is compliant in most areas, the main concern is the website, where PDF documents do not always meet accessibility requirements. In recognition of these, interim measures have been put into place to support those that require assistance.

The Town Clerk advised Members that when they receive their AGAR, a box entitled ‘other matters’ may contain a comment that they are not fully compliant in view of some of the website accessibility requirements detailed above.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor P Samuels, seconded by Councillor Nowlan and RESOLVED:

1.  That the Town Council confirms it has complied with the requirements set out in Assertion 10 of the Annual Governance Statement for the financial year ending 31 March 2026;

2.  That it further acknowledges that its website does not fully meet all statutory accessibility requirements, however full compliance is expected to be achieved during 2026;

3.  That the accessibility statement accurately sets out the Town Councils current position regarding website accessibility and the support available to assist users;

4.  To RECOMMEND to Full Town Council on 9 April 2026 to approve the updated IT Policy in accordance with the Assertion 10 requirements, as attached.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor P Samuels, seconded by Councillor Bullock and RESOLVED to approve the above recommendation, as attached.

RECOMMENDATION 2:

324/25/26 TO RECEIVE AMENDMENTS TO THE RECEIVING PUBLIC QUESTIONS, REPRESENTATIONS AND EVIDENCE AT MEETINGS PROCEDURE AND CONSIDER ANY ACTIONS.

The Chairman invited Members to ask questions regarding the proposed amendments to the Receiving Public Questions, Representations and Evidence at Meetings procedure, as set out in the circulated reports pack.

Members discussed the amendments and agreed that they were necessary. However, they expressed concern that the requirement for questions to be submitted five clear working days in advance was too long and would not allow questions to be raised following the publication of an agenda.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Martin, seconded by Councillor Brady and resolved to RECOMMEND to Full Town Council to approve the Receiving Public Questions, Representations and Evidence at Meetings procedure, as amended and attached.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor P Samuels, seconded by Councillor Martin and RESOLVED to approve the above recommendation, as attached.

RECOMMENDATION 3:

330/25/26 TO RECEIVE A REPORT ON THE FINDINGS FROM THE APPOINTMENT OF THE LOCAL COUNCIL CONSULTANCY  ...  view the full minutes text for item 7/26/27

It was RESOLVED to note the minutes. There were no recommendations.

It was RESOLVED to note.

It was RESOLVED to note.

PCSO Sarah Diaper, who was in attendance, was invited to speak on the crime figures received and circulated in the reports pack.

Members welcomed PCSO Diaper.

PCSO Diaper outlined that the reported crime figures reflected seasonal trends that were consistent with, and expected for, this time of year, particularly in relation to youth?related and antisocial behaviour. She advised that the police were actively working to reduce these incidents through the identification of hotspot areas and the implementation of targeted initiatives to address the issues.

Shoplifting was reported as having decreased compared with the same period last year, with police continuing to receive consistent levels of online reporting.

Members raised questions regarding the increase in reported sexual harassment offences. PCSO Diaper advised that, while it was disappointing to see an increase, this coincided with wider publicity and awareness campaigns encouraging those affected to come forward and report such incidents. It was therefore believed that the rise reflected increased confidence in reporting rather than a significant increase in offending.

It was RESOLVED to note.

Members considered the Emergency Resilience Survey and noted that the recent storms referenced had not impacted the community in the way the survey is written.

Councillor Ashburn updated Members on the Climate Change Network meeting, including discussions regarding the Carkeel Roundabout and ongoing efforts to maintain its cleanliness and appearance. Further information was contained within the circulated reports pack.

The Chairman invited Councillor Miller to provide feedback from the latest Community Area Partnership (CAP) meeting he attended in the absence of the Chair and Vice?Chair.

Councillor Miller gave a verbal overview of key discussions, including the work of the ECHO Centre in Liskeard and its services supporting people with physical disabilities, noting that awareness of its work remains limited. He also reported on a demographic deficit paper concerning low electoral engagement, the Tamar Bridge consultation, Safe A38 discussions (including Tideford crossing and the Stoketon Roundabout), and the highways scheme scheduled for a vote at the June CAP meeting. Reference was also made to a Babcock investment, with clarification still required as to whether this is regional or dockyard?specific.

A meeting is being arranged by the Community Link Officer to discuss the Memorandum of Understanding between Plymouth, Torbay, and Cornwall.

Councillor Peggs reported on a visit to Launceston Health Hub and outlined the services provided to the community.

Members queried whether attendance at the Tamar Summit may be widened to include local Councils. The Town Clerk confirmed she would enquire but advised that, at this stage, it was understood attendance was limited to MPs.

It was RESOLVED to note.

Councillor Suter provided a brief verbal update on the report received and contained within the circulated reports pack.

Members welcomed the progress being made regarding the provision of phlebotomy appointments in Saltash and queried whether these services would be available for children. Councillor Suter confirmed that she would seek clarification.

It was reported that a smaller subgroup of the Healthcare Action Group has been established to progress the St Barnabas Project, with the intention that only one Town Councillor attend in order to keep the group focused on the project work ahead.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Bullock, seconded by Councillor Johns, and RESOLVED that Councillor Peggs represent Saltash Town Council on the St Barnabas Project Team subgroup, with Councillor Suter appointed as reserve.

It was RESOLVED to note.

As the meeting took place on the Monday preceding this meeting, the report had not yet been received.

Councillor B Samuels, Member of the Chamber of Commerce and ViceChair of the Town Team, reminded Members of the Traders’ Meeting scheduled for Monday 14 April 2026 at 5:30pm, should any Member wish to attend.

The Chair invited Cornwall Councillors to speak to their submitted reports.

Cornwall Councillor Johnson provided a verbal update, including reference to Cornwall Council receiving a request to consider Burraton recreational ground / playing field for inclusion in the Council’s List of Assets of Community Value. It was explained that, if listed, this would enable a community group to bid for the asset under the Localism Act 2011.

Members were advised that the A38 Carkeel Roundabout to Stoketon Roundabout section will be closed overnight on 20 April for four nights to allow remedial works to be undertaken.

Members raised questions to Cornwall Councillors, with Councillor Frank confirming that parking charges would not be introduced at Kit Hill. It was also noted that the minimum top?up for the parking app had been reduced from £35, following concerns that the previous amount was excessively high.

Targeted weed control has been confirmed. Members welcomed this and queried the specific locations, noting that the map provided within the circulated report was dated 2013.  Councillor Frank confirmed she would arrange for an updated map.

Discussion took place regarding pothole repairs, including the use of the Elastomac pilot scheme currently being trialled in Bodmin.

Members discussed the importance of identifying and prioritising green spaces in Saltash.

The Town Clerk advised Members to consider updates to the Neighbourhood Plan and future Neighbourhood Priority Statements, as the designation of green spaces carries statutory weight.

It was noted that a Town Council Working Group met and is progressing  work in relation to green spaces within Saltash; however, it was acknowledged that the process is complex, requires collaboration between multiple parties, and will take time to find a solution.

Councillor Frank provided an update on Decision Days, advising that future decisions relating to green spaces will follow a revised process following the change in administration in May 2025. It was noted that Cornwall Councillors now receive the relevant papers and reports seven days in advance of a Decision Day, which is open to public attendance. Decision Days were confirmed as being fully transparent and provide opportunities for residents and councillors to express views and raise challenges.

It was RESOLVED to note.

Nothing to report.

a.   To advise the receipts for February 2026;

It was RESOLVED to note.

b.   To advise the payments for February 2026;

It was RESOLVED to note.

c.   Urgent and essential works actioned by the Town Clerk under Financial Regulations.

Nothing to report.

d.   To note that bank reconciliations up to 28 February 2026 were reviewed as correct by the Chairman of Policy & Finance Committee and the Town Clerk.

It was RESOLVED to note.

e.   To note that an audit on recent supplier payments was conducted by the Chairman of Policy & Finance in line with the Councils Financial Regulations. It was noted that there are no discrepancies to report.

It was RESOLVED to note.

Members discussed the report circulated in the reports pack in length and the implications of the proposed governance and committee structure changes.

Some Members expressed concern regarding the proposal to limit Full Council meetings to one hour; however, it was acknowledged that Standing Orders could be suspended where necessary to allow flexibility and that the focus would shift to the committees.

It was noted that while some Members felt the current number of full standing committees was cumbersome, others emphasised the value of committees as forums for all Members to contribute.

From an officer perspective, it was highlighted that committees with themed Full Council membership significantly increases administrative and clerking workload and do not align with sector best practice for Town and Parish Councils.

Councillor Martin commented positively on the support and professional advice provided by the Town Clerk and raised concerns about references to “best practice,” noting differing views on how the Council should operate.

Members discussed the Town Clerk’s comments within the report regarding committee membership levels, in particular the recommendation to retain a membership of 16 for the Planning and Licensing, Services, and Policy and Finance Committees. The Town Clerk confirmed that while such arrangements are not unlawful, they do differ from sector best practice and remain a governance decision for the Town Council.

Some Members expressed disagreement with reducing committee sizes and remained of the view that full membership should be retained. It was noted that CALC’s report, considered under a later agenda item, addressed similar concerns to the Town Clerk relating to full standing committees.

Members acknowledged that while reducing the number of sub?committees may streamline governance, the associated workload would transfer primarily to the Services Committee. The importance of an appropriate Scheme of Delegation was highlighted to enable the Town Clerk and her staff to progress matters efficiently, with Members expressing confidence in the Town Clerk to do so.

It was noted that Full Council will not provide the level of scrutiny it used to on committees, as full standing committees will be empowered to make decisions within their remit through their terms of reference, and all members shall have the opportunity to attend.

The proposed structure was recognised as offering some efficiency improvements while retaining Member involvement.

Members were reminded that governance arrangements are for the Council to determine, with the Town Clerk’s role being to advise accordingly.

The proposal was viewed as a means of streamlining committee arrangements while maintaining maximum Member input, with an opportunity to review the arrangements after an appropriate period.

Following a vote (8 in favour, 5 against, 1 abstention), it was proposed by Councillor Peggs, seconded by Councillor P Samuels and RESOLVED to:

1.  To approve the new Committee structure to be implemented in the new municipal year 2026-27;

2.  To delegate to the Town Clerk to align the Town Councils policy framework with the new structure.

(Pursuant to P&F Held on 05.03.26 minute nr. 325/25/26)

Members received the report commissioned from CALC, which was undertaken in response to increasing concerns that the Town Council’s governance framework was failing. The appointment of CALC was approved at the previous Policy and Finance Committee meeting.

Members formally thanked CALC for an outstanding piece of work delivered at a reasonable cost, and agreed with the report’s findings and recommendations, including the clear distinction made between operational matters and governance responsibilities.

Members recognised that Stage 2 of the work needs to be diarised and therefore will not be implemented in time for the 2026–27 municipal year.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor P Samuels, seconded by Councillor Johns and RESOLVED to;

1.  Adopt CALC’s new streamlined policy framework, which is fully aligned with sector best practice and removes duplication (section 5 of the report);

2.  Adopt CALC’s proposed amendments to the policies within the new streamlined structure, as provided via the SharePoint link;

3.  Appoint CALC to undertake Stage 2 of the review, progressing implementation of the revised framework, at a cost of £400 per day plus travel expenses, for an estimated 3–4 days allocated to budget code 6273 EMF Legal Fees;

4.  Delegate authority to the Town Clerk to work in conjunction with CALC relating to their recommendations listed from B to H, ensuring these are considered in the context of the Town Council’s recent work and strategic direction for Saltash, to secure the most appropriate outcomes.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Martin, seconded by Councillor Ashburn and RESOLVED to approve the amendments to Standing Orders, as attached.

Members received the report contained within the circulated reports pack and suggested that the badge be presented at both the Annual Meeting and the MayorMaking ceremony.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Martin, seconded by Councillor Bullock and RESOLVED to amend the Civic Handbook and Standing Orders to reflect the presenting of the Past Chairman’s Badge at the Annual Meeting of Saltash Town Council and at the annual Mayor Making Ceremony.

Members received the proposed Town Council Budget and Precept Schedule of Meetings for the year 2026/27, contained within the circulated reports pack.

Councillor Suter raised concerns that the Extraordinary Policy and Finance Committee meeting is scheduled very close to the deadline for agreeing the final precept submission to Cornwall Council in December, leaving limited time for detailed scrutiny of the overall figure.

Councillor P Samuels informed Members that most committees scrutinise their budgets as they are received at committee meetings, with members having a broad overview of the overall figure following the Policy and Finance Committee meeting scheduled for 12 November. However, it was noted that the Town Clerk is able to advise Cornwall Council that additional time may be required for this year’s submission, should members wish her to do so.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Suter, seconded by Councillor Stoyel and RESOLVED to:

1.    Approve the Town Council Budget and Precept Schedule for 2026/27 (as attached), with delegated authority to the Town Clerk to submit notification to Cornwall Council, should a January submission be required;

2.    RECOMMEND that the Town Council Budget and Precept Schedule for the financial year 2026/27 be formally adopted at the Annual Meeting of the Town Council, to be held on 7 May 2026.

Members noted that the report did not specify that the Solomon Theatre Group failed to meet the specification requirements and was therefore not considered.

The Working Group requested that the report be amended accordingly to ensure transparency and to clarify the position for any future review.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Bickford, seconded by Councillor P Samuels and RESOLVED to:

1.  Award The Core £150,000 over the next three years (2026-2029) subject to annual submissions of all documents in accordance with the specification;

2.  Award Livewire £150,000 over the next three years (2026-2029) subject to annual submissions of all documents in accordance with the specification.

(Pursuant to FTC held on 15.01.26 minute nr. 312/25/26)

Members received the report contained within the circulated reports pack regarding suggested improvements to attendance at Town Council events, including May Fair and the Saltash Regatta.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Martin, seconded by Councillor Gillies and RESOLVED to:

1.  Provide support of one member of staff, to be determined by the Town Clerk;

2.  Utilise the Town Council’s existing display boards, subject to their suitability for outdoor use within the Town Council gazebo;

3.  Allocate a maximum budget of £600 to support associated marketing, including stickers and logo bugs, to be funded from budget code 6573 – EMF Public Art and Maintenance;

4.  Delegate authority to the Town Clerk to approve any expenditure exceeding £600 but remaining within the approved budget, should this be necessary;

5.  To approve the working group be disbanded with immediate effect due to the completion of the project.

Members received and discussed the report contained within the circulated reports pack, submitted by Councillor Suter, which detailed the deterioration and possible reasons of the lack of reliability of Stagecoach Service Number 2.

Members raised no further comments prior to Councillor Suter submitting the report to the Managing Director of Stagecoach South West.

It was RESOLVED to note.

The Chairman informed members that Philip Robinson, Chief Officer, had confirmed receipt and acknowledged the comments.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Ashburn, seconded by Councillor Nowlan and RESOLVED to ratify the Town Council’s response to the Tamar Tag Administration Fee Consultation.

It was RESOLVED to note.

To resolve that pursuant to Section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to meetings) Act 1960 the public and press leave the meeting because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted.

To resolve that pursuant to Section 1(2) of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 the public and press leave the meeting because of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted.

None.

To resolve that the public and press be re-admitted to the meeting. 

To resolve that the public and press be re-admitted to the meeting.

The next scheduled meeting date Saturday 18 April 2026 outside Saltash Heritage Museum, Fore Street.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Stoyel, seconded by Councillor B Samuels and RESOLVED for Councillors Martin, Peggs, Gillies and Bullock to attend.

Following a unanimous vote, it was proposed by Councillor Bullock, seconded by Councillor Johns and RESOLVED to issue the following Press and Social Media releases:

1.  Letter to Cornwall Council on the Sale of Burraton Field;

2.  Tamar Tag Fee Consultation Response;

3.  Meet your Councillors;

4.  Professional Youth Work Funds Awarded;

5.  Stagecoach Service Number 2 Meeting;

6.  Town Council Attendance at May Fair and Regatta.

Thursday 7 May 2026 at 7.00pm

I Move to Order that the Common Seal of the Council be affixed to all Deeds and Documents necessary to give effect to the foregoing Acts and Proceedings.

It was RESOLVED that Councillor Stoyel Move to Order that the Common Seal of the Council be affixed to all Deeds and Documents necessary to give effect to the foregoing Acts and Proceedings.