Due to the sensitive or confidential nature of the following item it was proposed by Councillor Lawrence, seconded by Councillor T Inch and resolved to exclude the press and public from the remainder of the meeting on the basis of Section 1 paragraph 2 of the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 which stipulated that a council may, by resolution, exclude the public from a meeting (whether during the whole or part of the proceedings) whenever publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest by reason of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted or for other special reasons stated in the resolution and arising from the nature of that business or of the proceedings.
(Vote - For: 12, Against: 0)
59. Christmas Lights – Outcome of the Tender Exercise
(Councillor T Inch left the Meeting.)
The Council considered a report recommending the appointment of a contractor for the annual maintenance, installation and removal of the Christmas Lights.
(Councillor T Inch returned to the meeting.)
It was proposed by Councillor L Hellyer, seconded by Councillor Gubb and resolved to appoint DS Electrical to install, maintain, and remove Christmas lighting displays in various locations in the town centre in Bideford for the festive seasons 2026-2029.
(Vote – For: 11, Against: 0, Abstention: 1)
60. Pannier Market – Licence for Alterations
The Council considered the licence of alterations governing the construction works at the Pannier Market.
It was proposed by Councillor Lawrence, seconded by Councillor T Inch and resolved to authorise the execution of a licence for alterations for the Pannier Market to be signed as a deed in accordance with the Council’s Standing Order 23.
(Vote - For: 12, Against: 0)
Councillor McKenzie expressed disappointment regarding the distribution of funds to those that had not entered into nor satisfied the criteria for funding through the Levelling Up initiative. He believed that the Market could have attracted additional funding support.
61. Mayor's Robe
The Council considered a report recommending the replacement of the Mayor's robe.
At its last meeting on 18 June 2026, the Council had questioned the potential suppliers' availability and capacity to deliver the works and requested a further report to this