Kibworth Harcourt Parish Council
The monthly public parish council meeting was held on 7 April at 7 pm in the Studio at the Kibworth Community Hub. The council approved apologies from absent councillors and approved the March meeting minutes.
Community Hub and Energy Improvements
A grant-funded environmental application for solar panels to be installed on the Community Hub is progressing. If granted, the project is expected to reduce electricity costs for the Hub by around 50%.
Parish Councils’ Merger Review
Both Kibworth Parish Councils are backing a review by HDC to look at options for a merger. A petition requiring at least 420 resident signatures is being prepared, with both paper and online participation available.
County and District Council Reports
Leicestershire County Council approved a 2.99% council tax increase. Harborough District Council approved a 5% council tax reduction and lowered bulky goods collection charges from £35 to £10.
Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces
Tree safety inspections and resident complaints were discussed for Warwick Park and Melbourne Close.
A sonic tomography test for a tree by the playground is scheduled for 21 April.
The council approved an application for resurfacing works in Rookery Park costing £60,110, subject to s106 funding and Community Grant approval by HDC.
Jubilee Green could formally be transferred from HDC ownership to parish ownership. Rochester Close spinney transfer was declined due to maintenance funding concerns.
Burial Board and Cemetery
New cemetery bins and reserved plot markers have been received.
HDC has confirmed that the remaining s106 funds (£24,200) may be used for a self-build workshop project.
The purchase of additional signage and bird baths was approved.
Allotments
The council supported a £2,264.99 s106 funding application from the Allotment Society for: a shelter, picnic benches and six wheelbarrows.
Planning Applications
The council objected to replacement uPVC windows and doors at 22 Main Street, supporting the conservation officer who recommended traditional timber windows.
Residents have been invited to a public exhibition on 16 April at Kibworth Cricket Club for a proposed 550-home Warwick Road development.
Community Grant Applications
Community grant funding applications were approved for: MUGA fencing (Warwick Park), new swings in Jubilee Green, and a £10,000 contribution toward the Rookery Park pathway project has been submitted
Governance and Finance
The council approved: updated policies, Q4 financial reports, the annual investment strategy, and March payments totalling £14,279.43.
Clerk and Councillor reports
A work experience opportunity with the grounds team is being explored.
Repairs to a long-reported manhole cover on Barnards Way have finally been completed.
The next public parish council meetings are on 5 May and 2 June in the Studio, Kibworth Community Hub at 7pm.
Please visit our website for more information about us at www.kh-pc.gov.uk.
If you would like to get involved or let us know of any community news about up-and-coming events, then please contact the Parish Council.
Sara Barrett (clerk@kh-pc.gov.uk)
Market Harborough Choral Society
