Council Meeting 16.9.26

b)          To note the appointment of Mrs Donna Bowles  as Responsible Financial Officer  with effect from 1^st September 2026

1)          Declare the existence of any Disclosable Pecuniary Interest (DPI), Other Registerable Interest (ORI) or Non-Registerable Interest (NRI) for any agenda item

2)          Confirm the nature of the interest by explaining the connection between the interest and the agenda item, and

3)          State what action (if any) they will take in relation to the interest when the agenda item is discussed*

*In the case of a DPI or ORI the obligation is to not participate in any discussion or vote and to leave the meeting room, unless the member has a dispensation from the Clerk to the Parish Council.

If the existence and nature of any interest only becomes apparent later in the meeting it must be disclosed immediately. If a DPI or ORI is not already registered, members must notify the Clerk to the Parish Council of the interest within 28 days.

Members are also reminded of the need to declare predetermination on any matter.

If Members are unsure about whether or not they have an interest, or about its nature, they are strongly advised to seek advice from the Clerk prior to the meeting.

Chairman to Move: The Meeting & Standing Orders be now adjourned:

a. Open Forum: (Maximum 15 minutes will be allowed)

At the Chairman’s discretion residents are invited to give their views and question the Parish Council on issues on this Agenda, or raise issues for future consideration.  Members of the public may not take part in the Parish Council Meeting.  There will be no discussion by members of the Council during this session but the views expressed may be considered later as part of particular agenda items.  During this period, in accordance with the revised Code of Conduct, members of the Council who have a disclosable interest (but not a disclosable pecuniary interest) in an item on the Agenda may also make representations, answer questions, or give evidence relating to that item.

b. Open forum for the under 18s.

c. To receive the Ward Member’s reports (3 minutes maximum each Ward Councillor)

–        SDC – Cllr Ashley Jones

–        WCC – Cllr Cliff Brown

Chairman to Move: To close the adjournment and the suspension of Standing Orders

To approve the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Wednesday 29^th July 2026 at the Memorial Hall, Salford Priors.

Planning Matters To Consider :

a)          26/01773FUL – Proposed alterations and extensions to provide extended residential annex, car port and covered walkway at Rough Hill Low Road Church Lench Evesham WR11 4UH

b)    26/01798/FUL– Proposed a single and double storey rear extension at Tothall Cottage 54  Dunnington Alcester B49 5NY

c)    26/02007/REM – Proposed reserved matters (appearance, landscaping, layout and scale) for plot 12 only pursuant to 24/00614/VARY for 16no. self-build and custom housebuilding at Land West of Evesham Road Salford Priors

Planning Matters Considered via email:

a)          26/01942/TREE – Proposed : T1- Weeping Birch-Fell at The Hayloft, Abbots Salford, Evesham, WR11 8UT. Following consultation via email Clerk responded with “The Parish Council notes the proposal to remove the weeping willow with no replacement planting. Before supporting removal, they would like to understand whether a crown reduction or other management works have been considered, as the tree appears capable of being reduced to address size or maintenance concerns while still preserving its contribution to the Conservation Area. The Parish Council in a conservation area has always requested a replacement tree for any tree removed.”

b)          26/01941/TREE Proposed : T1 – conifer – Reduce by roughly 2-2.5metres and trim face to match at the Cottage, Evesham Road, Salford Priors, Evesham WR11 8UU. Following consultation via email Clerk responded with “No objection”.

c)          26/01727/LDP – Proposed – Erection of a single-storey rear extension to the existing dwelling at 55 Priors Crescent Salford Priors Evesham WR11 8AN. Following consultation via email Clerk responded with “The external walls and roof extension should be constructed with facing bricks/materials of the same type, texture and colour as the external walls and roof of the existing building”.

d)          26/01812/VARY – Proposed : Application Reference Number: 25/02334/FUL Date of Decision: 12/01/2025 Condition Number(s): 2 Conditions(s) Removal: Now that the extension is up, and we have windows installed, reflecting on the Millboard that we had approved, we think it too contemporary and a more traditional approach will fit in with the existing house. Investigating the local area a number of extensions/buildings have used traditional feather edge horizontal boarding, stained black. We think this is a better fit, and more in keeping with the overall look of the property. Variation of condition 2 of planning permission 25/02334/FUL dated 12.1.2025 to alter the appearance of the external cladding in line with new plan/s number/s PL4A.02B at Four Acres, Evesham Road, Salford Priors, Evesham WR11 8UU. Following consultation via email Clerk responded with “No objection”.

Decisions:

e)          26/01504/REM – Reserved matters (appearance, landscaping, layout and scale) for Plot 8 only pursuant to outline application 24/00614/VARY for 16 no. self-build and custom housebuilding plots at Land West of Evesham Road, Salford Priors. Application Approved Subject to Conditions.

f)            26/01491/REM – Reserved matters (appearance, landscaping, layout and scale) for plot 4 only

pursuant to outline application 24/00614/VARY for 16No. self-build and custom housebuilding plots at Land West of Evesham Road, Salford Priors, WR11 8UR. Application Approved Subject to Conditions.

g)           26/01727/LDP Proposed Erection of a single-storey side extension to the existing dwelling at 55 Priors Crescent Salford Priors WR11 8AN – Proposed Lawful Development – Permitted

h)         26/01365/AMD Proposed – Non material amendment to change the Pot Passports for Plots 12, 13 and 16 approved under the outline permission reference 22/02022/OUT – Approval of Non Material Amendment

Planning Enforcement:

i)             Bomford Way Salford Priors Section 106 Non- compliance of offering Public Open Space to the Parish Council –

j)             Priors Crescent  Salford Priors – Non-compliance with landscaping conditions Public Open Space

South Warwickshire Local Plan (SWLP):  To receive any updates

Arrow Valley Solar Farm Project : To receive any updates
Response from Minister to Manuela Perteghella MP regarding BESS installations

a)          The Clerk has accepted a quote from the Amenity Contractor to add the three planters at the bottom of School Road to the existing Planter Contract. The additional cost will be £40 per planter for refilling and £15 for watering all three planters, if required.

b)          Following the report of a possible overflowing septic tank on Broom Lane, Dunnington to Stratford District Council, Environmental Services a site inspection found no visible sewage or immediate public health risk. The septic tank was serviced, with a blockage identified and arrangements made for its clearance. The matter has been referred to the Environment Agency for consideration under the relevant regulations.

c)          The new litter bin and recycling bin have been installed outside the Post Office/Shop School Road Salford Priors ordered through Stratford on Avon District Council

Chairman’s Monthly Report:

a)      St Matthews Churchyard Extension – removal of dead box hedging and memorial seat to Diana Princess of Wales 1961-1997  Box Hedging to be replaced with Portuguese  Laurels Bench to be replaced.

b)      St Matthews Churchyard Extension – consideration for the removal of the original 1984 shrub planting overgrown and now excessive, removal; and planting similar further down the extension to provide new grave spaces.

c)      Major Incident – Marsh Farm  Wild Fire Thursday 13 August approximately 200 hundred acres of arable land damaged by fire.

d)      TOPs Window Smashed – stone thrown from Playing Field 11^th August

e)      Statement Issued in response to residents concerns regarding the Playing Field – Reassurance that no weed killers, poisonous sprays or an other toxic substances that are harmful are used by council contractors on the field.

f)         The Greenway Bomford Way removal of tree obstructing the public right of way.

g)       Instructions issued that no strimming or mowing of Public Rights of Way to be carried out during the heatwave due to fire risk until there has been sufficient rain fall.

h)      St Matthews Close – Fly tipping reported on Thursday 3^rd August SDC Ref: 3104820 SDC referred complaint to Orbit Housing Association as the fly tipping is on their land off the public highway.

a)          To note jobs issued from last Council meeting; comment on progress

–        Memorial Bench x 2 refurbishment

–        Removal of noticeboard Ban Brook Rd

–        Make safe broken glass at TOPs

–        Kerbline clearance at Perkins Close – no grass to cut

b)          To consider future tasks to be issued

a)          Infrastructure & Built Environment:

1)          Highways – To retrospectively agree the additional improvement works to School Road (former bus stop). The additional works to School Road, at the former bus stop, had previously been discussed with the Chairman, the Clerk and Highways approximately two years ago. The proposed works included the installation of additional kerbing and a grasscrete area to facilitate contractor access to the gate onto Priors Crescent. To enable these works to be progressed alongside the previously agreed tasks, the Clerk circulated the relevant details, including the quotation, to Councillors by email. Councillors subsequently confirmed their agreement to the proposed additional works by email.

2)          Public Open Space – no further update

3)          NDP – receive update

4)          Playing Field –

o   to note pump track/skateboarding signage has been removed (vandalism). To consider way forward.

o   To note there is an issue with one of the newly installed gates; Clerk has contacted Sovereign Design

5)          Garden Allotments –

o   to consider changing the padlock code on the gate regularly.

o   To note plots 11 & 1b are vacant

o   To consider eviction of plotholder 5b.

o   To consider the removal of a section leylandii hedge at the request of the tenant farmer the removal of rubbish, dumped vegetation waste from allotment holders on his tenancy and the repairs to the boundary post and wire fence to define boundary.

6)          PROW To receive report from Mr Green on the Public Rights of Way within the Parish

b)         Communications – to receive update

c)          Project Delivery Group – to receive update following Carol Ramsden’s recent email. To note no response from Ragley regarding the extension request to the permissive route.

a)          To note Stratford District Council has considered the nominations of the Assets of Community Value (ACV) relating to:

–        ACV 138 The Memorial Hall School Road Salford Priors

–        ACV 139 The Bell Inn Evesham Road Salford Priors

and has decided that both assets will be included on the list of assets of community value established under the Localism Act 2011, expiry date 31^st July 2031.

b)          To note the power supply to the feeder pillar on School Rd, for Priors Crescent is due to be installed in November.

c)          To ratify decision to continue with annual maintenance for the streetlights.

d)          To ratify a works order to install a feeder pillar at Dunnington in the sum of £633.79 in relation to the new electricity supply for the defibrillator being moved from the Baptist Church Hall wall.

e)          To note a new defibrillator has been installed at the Memorial Hall, Salford Priors.

f)            To receive an update on the operation and attendance of the Warm Hub

To note that the Secretary Of State for Housing Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner has paused the process of Local Government Reorganisation (5^th September 2026) including proposals for a North Warwickshire Unitary Authority and a South Warwickshire Unitary Authority.

Matters raised by Councillors are considered under this item. Councillors are also invited to use this opportunity to report minor matters of information not included elsewhere on the agenda and to raise items for future agendas. (At the discretion of the Chairman Councillors may raise items at the meeting if considered necessary and urgent).

(The Clerk will provide individual copies of correspondence for retention if required).

a)          WALC Weekly Updates – Circulated

b)          NALC Updates – Circulated

c)          Alcester South SNT Police Reports – Circulated

a)          Equality & Diversity Policy

b)          Publication Scheme

c)          Illegal & Unauthorised Encampments Policy

d)          Parish Emergency Plan – to consider the composition of the Emergency Plan Group membership

a)          Consideration and approval of the payments and transfers listed in Appendix A and to agree 2 Councillor signatories to sign the payments sheet.

b)          To note payments made between meetings.

c)          To note the external audit.

d)          To consider the appointment of a new Internal Auditor.

e)         To note new National Joint Council pay scales and back dated pay award to 1^st April 2026

f)           To note the bank account balances

To confirm the date of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting at 7.00pm on Wednesday 21^stOctober 2026 at the Memorial Hall Salford Priors.

Members noted the appointment of Mrs Angela Eason as Parish Clerk & Proper Officer with effect from 9^th September 2026.

Members noted the appointment of Mrs Donna Bowles as Responsible Financial Officer  with effect from 1^st September 2026

Apologies considered for absence:

Cllr D. Price – accepted.

Members were reminded of the need to keep their register of interests up to date. Members were reminded that they must act solely in the public interest and should never improperly confer an advantage or disadvantage on any person or act to gain financial or other material benefits for themselves, their family, a friend, or close associate.

Declare the existence of any Disclosable Pecuniary Interest (DPI), Other Registerable Interest (ORI) or Non-Registerable Interest (NRI) for any agenda item Declaration of Interests:

DPI – None declared, ORI – None declared, NRI – None declared

Members were also reminded of the need to declare predetermination on any matter.

a)1 member of the public was present:

Query raised regarding a booking at the Memorial Hall for the Arrow Valley Solar Farm consultation on 10^th October.  The Chair was aware of the booking.

b) No under 18s were present.

c) County Councillor Brown’s report – not in attendance report received prior to the meeting

Cllr Meakin returned to the meeting at 19.05 p.m.

District Councillor Jones presented his report (previously circulated to Councillors): Key aspects of his report:

·       Since the last meeting, the District Councillor has been actively engaged in significant planning, governance, and ward‑level matters. He explained that attendance at planning meetings has impeded his ability to attend Parish Council meetings.

·       The South Warwickshire Local Plan (Reg19) progressed to consultation, with major implications for the ward — particularly the large BID1 development and associated Gypsy & Traveller site proposals. He opposed the plan and submitted detailed representations highlighting traffic pressures on Salford Priors, concerns about site selection, and inaccuracies in Section 18 reporting that it was incorrectly reported that Exhall supported local development. He has requested clarification on the rationale for placement of the G & T site on Grafton Lane and whether incorrect data influenced this decision.

·       Plans for Local Government Reorganisation have been unexpectedly paused by central government, halting the previously announced transition to two unitary authorities. As a result, District Council elections will proceed in May 2027.

·       The Arrow Valley Solar Project is moving toward its formal public consultation phase, beginning 28 September 2026. He intends to work jointly with the Parish Council to produce a coordinated response.

·       He has maintained full attendance at full council meetings and continued planning‑related training, and contributed actively through his role on the Planning Committee. From the end of October applications with fewer than 10 houses will bypass committee altogether and be decided by officers.

·      Ward‑specific issues remain prominent, including delays in enforcement at the Birch appeal site, ongoing disruption caused by Severn Trent sewage transport operations, and sensitive enforcement challenges at Wixford Grange. Residents at Wixford believed they could reside on site for 12 months; however, planning permission permits occupancy for 10 months only.

The Chair closed the open forum and reconvened the meeting at 19.04 p.m.  Cllr. Jones had informed the Council he would be late attending the meeting so the meeting was adjourned at 19.11 p.m. and reconvened at 19.27 p.m. for his report.

The Minutes of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting held on 29^th July 2026 at the Memorial Hall, Salford Priors were agreed by the Council to be a true record of the meeting and signed by the Chairman.

Planning Matters to consider:

a)         26/01773/FUL – Proposed alterations and extensions to provide extended residential annex, car port and covered walkway at Rough Hill Low Road Church Lench Evesham WR11 4UH.

Following discussion, it was agreed that the Clerk to respond with `No Objection’

b)         26/01798/FUL– Proposed a single and double storey rear extension at Tothall Cottage 54 Dunnington Alcester B49 5NY.

Following discussion, it was agreed that the Clerk to respond with `No Objection’.

At this point the meeting was adjourned for the District Councillor’s report from 19.11 p.m. and reconvened at 19.27 p.m.

c)          26/02007/REM – Proposed reserved matters (appearance, landscaping, layout and scale) for plot 12 only pursuant to 24/00614/VARY for 16no. self-build and custom housebuilding at Land West of Evesham Road Salford Priors. Following discussion, it was agreed that the Clerk would respond with `No Objection’.

Planning Matters considered via email:

a)         26/01942/TREE – Proposed: T1- Weeping Birch-Fell at The Hayloft, Abbots Salford, Evesham, WR11 8UT. Following consultation via email Clerk responded with “The Parish Council notes the proposal to remove the weeping willow with no replacement planting. Before supporting removal, they would like to understand whether a crown reduction or other management works have been considered, as the tree appears capable of being reduced to address size or maintenance concerns while still preserving its contribution to the Conservation Area. The Parish Council in a conservation area has always requested a replacement tree for any tree removed.” Following this request from the Council the tree officer visited the site and reported back that it is not worth keeping the tree as it is diseased. Disease had not been mentioned in the original report.  The tree will be felled. Planning Permission Granted – Approved with Consent

b)         26/01941/TREE Proposed: T1 – conifer – Reduce by roughly 2-2.5metres and trim face to match at the Cottage, Evesham Road, Salford Priors, Evesham WR11 8UU. Following consultation via email Clerk responded with “No objection”.

c)         26/01727/LDP – Proposed: Erection of a single-storey rear extension to the existing dwelling at 55 Priors Crescent Salford Priors Evesham WR11 8AN. Following consultation via email Clerk responded with “The external walls and roof extension should be constructed with facing bricks/materials of the same type, texture and colour as the external walls and roof of the existing building”.

d)         26/01812/VARY – Proposed: Application Reference Number: 25/02334/FUL Date of Decision: 12/01/2025 Condition Number(s): 2 Conditions(s) Removal: Now that the extension is up, and we have windows installed, reflecting on the Millboard that we had approved, we think it too contemporary and a more traditional approach will fit in with the existing house. Investigating the local area a number of extensions/buildings have used traditional feather edge horizontal boarding, stained black. We think this is a better fit, and more in keeping with the overall look of the property. Variation of condition 2 of planning permission 25/02334/FUL dated 12.1.2025 to alter the appearance of the external cladding in line with new plan/s number/s PL4A.02B at Four Acres, Evesham Road, Salford Priors, Evesham WR11 8UU. Following consultation via email Clerk responded with “No objection”.

Decisions:

e)         26/01504/REM – Reserved matters (appearance, landscaping, layout and scale) for Plot 8 only pursuant to outline application 24/00614/VARY for 16 no. self-build and custom housebuilding plots at Land West of Evesham Road, Salford Priors. Application Approved Subject to Conditions.

f)            26/01491/REM – Reserved matters (appearance, landscaping, layout and scale) for plot 4 only

pursuant to outline application 24/00614/VARY for 16No. self-build and custom housebuilding plots at Land West of Evesham Road, Salford Priors, WR11 8UR. Application Approved Subject to Conditions.

g)          26/01727/LDP Proposed Erection of a single-storey side extension to the existing dwelling at 55 Priors Crescent Salford Priors WR11 8AN – Proposed Lawful Development – Permitted

h)         26/01365/AMD Proposed – Non material amendment to change the Pot Passports for Plots 12, 13 and 16 approved under the outline permission reference 22/02022/OUT – Approval of Non Material Amendment

Planning Enforcement

Bomford Way Salford Priors

Section 106 Non compliance of offering Public Open Space to the Parish Council.  No further communication has been received.  District Cllr Jones was asked by the Chair to support the Council with this matter and he agreed.

Priors Crescent, Salford Priors

Non compliance with landscaping conditions for Public Open Space.  The Council are still waiting for submission of the certificate for completion.

South Warwickshire Local Plan (SWLP)

Regulation 19 has concluded and is going ahead with due process.

Arrow Valley Solar Farm Project:

A response was received from Michael Shanks (Minister of State for Energy) to Manuela Perteghella regarding BESS installation resulting from the Parish Council’s letter of concern. His response concluded that installers should engage with local planning and emergency services.  Cllr James reported that the National Fire Chief Council have produced guidance stating that panels should be 1.1 metres apart whereas industry practice is to place them 0.9 metres apart.  There is no BESS standard for batteries although high-quality batteries are recommended. A hydrant system should surround the site.  Once a battery fire is alight then it cannot be extinguished, it has to burn out and if heat extends to another container it will cause a chain reaction.  The volume of water required to contain a fire is high; 1500 litres every two minutes.

Cllr James is meeting with the WFRS Chief Fire Officer along with the MP and the WCC portfolio holder on Friday 25^th September at the Fire Service Headquarters in Leamington Spa.

The use of Grade 2 and 3 land has to be taken in context of the percentage of the whole of the farming land in Warwickshire and proof is required that yield is high.

Cllr James was invited to and attended a recent Arrow Valley Solar Opposition meeting.

Two consultancy firms have refused the offer of work because of conflict of interest.  Cllr Howarth is contacting Rotherham MBC to ascertain which consultancy firms they have used and also look on the portal for other companies to approach.

The AVS working group is waiting for consultation documentation to structure their response.

There has been complaints about the AVSO opposition banners on private property and the A46.  The banner on the private property has been removed and the Clerk has contacted Highways to remove them from the A46.

Arrow Valley Solar are holding meetings on the following dates:

Cllr briefing – 2^nd October

Cllr briefing – 30^th September

Public exhibition – Saturday 10^th October, Salford Priors Memorial Hall.

Actions:

Cllr Howarth to seek guidance on available consultancy firms to support the council with its response to the Arrow Valley Solar Farm Project final submissions.
Cllr Maud to arrange a meeting of the AVS Working Group

a)         The Clerk has accepted a quote from the Amenity Contractor to add the three planters at the bottom of School Road to the existing Planter Contract. The additional cost will be £40 per planter for refilling and £15 for watering all three planters, if required. – noted

b)         Following the report of a possible overflowing septic tank on Broom Lane, Dunnington to Stratford District Council, Environmental Services asite inspection found no visible sewage or immediate public health risk. The septic tank was serviced, with a blockage identified and arrangements made for its clearance. The matter has been referred to the Environment Agency for consideration under the relevant regulations – noted

c)         The new litter bin and recycling bin have been installed outside the Post Office/Shop School Road Salford Priors ordered through Stratford on Avon District Council.  Councillors reported that the bins are being utilised and there is no litter on the ground – noted and closed

Chairman’s Monthly Report:

d)         St Matthews Churchyard Extension. The box hedging has been removed. and a new memorial seat to Diana Princess of Wales 1961-1997 has been purchased. Hedging to be replaced with Portuguese Laurels at the appropriate time of year – Noted.

e)         St Matthews Churchyard Extension – Members considered the removal of the original 1984 shrub planting which is overgrown and now excessive and planting similar further down the extension to provide new grave spaces. The Council unanimously agreed to this. Noted and Closed.

f)            Major Incident – Marsh Farm Field Fire Thursday 13 August approximately 200 hundred acres of arable land damaged by fire. The fire came within 60 feet of a property on Marsh Farm and severely damaged barns before the wind changed and fire went in the opposite direction. The Chair thanked Cllr. Jones for his concern during this distressing time Noted.

g)          TOPs Window Smashed – stone thrown from Playing Field 11^th August.  Replacement of window has been organized at a cost of £140.  Noted and closed.

h)         Statement Issued in response to residents concerns regarding the Playing Field – Reassurance that no weed killers, poisonous sprays or an other toxic substances that are harmful are used by council contractors on the field – Noted and closed.

i)            The Greenway off Bomford Way removal of tree obstructing the public right of way.  The tree was removed within one hour of obstruction.  Noted and closed.

j)            St Matthews Close – Fly tipping reported on Thursday 3^rd August SDC Ref: 3104820 SDC referred complaint to Orbit Housing Association as the fly tipping is on their land off the public highway.  It was then noted that the area belonged to Stratford District Council and has now been cleared.  Noted and closed.

k)          The hedge between Banbrook Road and the school has been cut and cleared. Noted and closed.

l)            It will be the first time that the Parish Council will mark Armistice Day and the Chair asked the Council to consider funding three poppy wreaths for St Matthews, the Memorial Hall and one to place on Armistice Day. This was unanimously agreed. Noted.

Action: Clerk/RFO to procure in accordance with Financial Regulations

Cllr Meakins left the meeting at 8.04 p.m.

Members noted works carried out:

·       A `homemade’ skateboard ramp using the vandalised fence from the Scout hut was cleared.

·       All old noticeboards have been removed.

·       Parish Noticeboards have been replaced at Bomford Way, Banbrook Road and Abbots Salford.

·       Smashed window has been made safe at TOPS.

·       The kerbline has been cleared at Perkins Close.

Works to be completed/outstanding:

·       An attempt has been made to place a parish noticeboard by the shop however there is metal in the ground so further investigation is required. 

·       Memorial Bench x 2 refurbishment.

·       Replacement of glass at TOPS.

·       Goalposts are not erected – the ground has been too hard to install them.

Future tasks agreed:

The Council agreed to the following work:

The Highways and Maintenance Officer to clear the footpaths of all leaves prior to Remembrance Sunday on the footpath on Station Road (from the Church entrance to black and white cottages).

There was a discussion about whether to mark the football pitch on a permanent basis. No decision was made.

9

a)         Infrastructure & Built Environment.

1)        Highways : It was retrospectively agreed that the additional improvement works to School Road (former bus stop) should proceed. The additional works to School Road, at the former bus stop, had previously been discussed with the Chairman, the Clerk and Highways approximately two years ago. The proposed works included the installation of additional kerbing and a grasscrete area to facilitate contractor access to the gate onto Priors Crescent. To enable these works to be progressed alongside the previously agreed tasks, the Clerk circulated the relevant details, including the quotation, to Councillors by email. Councillors subsequently confirmed their agreement to the proposed additional works by email.  The Council are now waiting for this work to commence.

2)         Public Open Space – no further update

3)         Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP)

There is funding available from Stratford District Council for reviewing neighborhood plans.  Consultants have been tied up with the SWP.  Cllr. Howarth informed the Council that there are big changes to the Framework and there is a presumption that there is favour to a new development and a neighborhood plan can be used as a refusal.  Currently there are no allocations in the Neighbourhood Plan and this could result in sites being developed in areas where they are not wanted.

Actions:

A meeting to be arranged with Andrew Pelligram.

Consider Grant Application to renew the NDP from SDC and apply for grant monies

Cllr James reported that SDC has appointed a Rural Housing Enabler.  The previous Rural Housing Enabler service was delivered through Warwickshire Rural Community Council (WRCC). Following the closure of WRCC, the Rural Housing Enabler role was vacant for a number of months.  A Housing Needs Survey was completed and the Council have been requested to consider the findings.

Action: Cllr James to respond to Rural Housing Enabler.

4)         Playing Field

The pump track/skateboarding signage has been removed after further Vandalism.
A discussion was held as to how to ensure the replacement could be made more robust and prevent further vandalism.  It was agreed that the future sign should be taller and more robust and a suggestion that it could be a mounted piece of metal put onto metal poles.

Action – Clerk to research alternative signage and present to Council for consideration.

There is an issue with one of the newly installed gates.  Clerk has contacted Sovereign Design and they are sending out an inspection team.

Action – Clerk to contact Sovereign Design and establish time scale for repair

5)         Garden Allotments –

·       to consider changing the padlock code on the gate regularly – no decision made (action carried forward)

·       Plots 11 & 1b are vacant and have been advertised via Social Media.  No applicants to date. Noted.

·       Members noted that despite two requests to clear and make good, plot 5b is still in a state of disrepair.  It was unanimously agreed that an eviction notice would be served.

·       Action – Clerk to contact plot holder with eviction notice

·       The Council were reminded that there is no public right of way across the allotments although it was used as a through cut.  The Council were asked to consider the removal of a section of leylandii hedge from the tenant farmer. He had reported that rubbish was being dumped on his tenancy and the boundary fence needed repairing and defined.  A quote of £480 has been received to remove conifer hedge, clear waste and rubbish. This can be funded by CIL.

The work, at a cost of £480, was proposed by Cllr. Green and seconded by Cllr. Mclean and unanimously approved by Council.

Action:.  Clerk/RFO to procure in accordance with Financial Regulations

·       It has been established that the boundary fence by the allotments is the responsibility of the Council.  The removal of the leylandii hedge and installation of a stock fence spanning from the current fence to the playground hedge will cost £2275.  The 145 foot length of fence will be three foot high, post and wire with two top strands of wire with a life span of 15 years.  This can be funded through CIL. The installation of the fence will ensure that no further rubbish will be dumped, prevent the public accessing allotments and no permissive right of way can be established.

The work at a cost of £2275.00 was proposed by Cllr. Green and seconded by Cllr. Mclean and unanimously approved by Council.

Action: Clerk/RFO to procure in accordance with Financial Regulations

6)         PROW

There are no issues to report on the Public Rights of Way.

b)         Communications – nothing to report.

Action carried forward: the Parish Connect will be published in later in the year, focusing on the election of the new Parish Council in May.

c)         Project Delivery Group – Members were advised that no response had been received to the email sent from Carol Ramsden to Ragley regarding the extension request to the permissive route for the proposed Greenways Project. There was a unaminous decision by the Council that this should be followed up with a further email.

Action: Clerk to instruct Birketts the Council’s solicitors to contact Ragley again seeking a response.

a)         Members noted that Stratford District Council has considered the nominations of the Assets of Community Value (ACV) relating to:

–        ACV 138 The Memorial Hall School Road Salford Priors

–        ACV 139 The Bell Inn Evesham Road Salford Priors

and has decided that both assets will be included on the list of assets of community value established under the Localism Act 2011, expiry date 31^stJuly 2031.

Noted and closed.

b)         Members noted that the power supply to the feeder pillar on School Rd, for Priors Crescent is due to be installed in November. It will be requested that the work is undertaken during the school half term (last week in October) to limit disruption to residents, however this could not be guaranteed. Noted

c)         Members noted that a works order had been placed with Balfour Beaty at a cost of £394.39 for the annual maintenance of street lights. Noted and closed.

d)         Members ratified the works order to install a feeder pillar at Dunnington for the sum of £633.79 for the new electricity supply for the defibrillator being moved from the Baptist Church Hall.  Noted and closed.

e)         Members noted the installation of a new defibrillator at Salford Priors Memorial Hall. Noted and closed.

f)            Warm Hub update.

The attendance at the Warm Hub has been maintained throughout the summer with an average of 35 people per week in attendance. The Warm Hub is holding their 4^th Birthday Celebration on 17^th September, 2026.

It was proposed that the Warm Hub be further known as the Community Hub to encourage the wider community to attend.

Cllr. James submitted a grant request for £4000 to Warwickshire County Council Divisional Members Grants Fund (Cllr Cliff Brown) to replace the old, temperamental cooker in the Memorial Hall kitchen to support the Warm Hub.  £1000 has been awarded.  Members were asked to consider funding the shortfall to replace the cooker.  Cllr. James informed members that it is only possible to get a single phase cooker as there is not a three phase connection for a commercial cooker.  The quote for the cooker is £3,200 supplied by Nesbitt’s commercial catering company.  Cllr. Maude asked if the Memorial Hall could be approached for funding but was informed that they do not have the necessary funding as they are currently refurbishing the kitchen.  Members agreed that as the cooker is 20 years old it would be safer and more energy efficient to purchase a new cooker at a cost of £3,200 and CIL monies could cover this.  If the Council did not approve then the grant funding would be returned.

It was agreed CIL funding of £2,200 should be used to contribute to the cost of a new cooker for the Memorial Hall kitchen and the grant of £1,000 from County Council would be accepted.

Proposed by Cllr. James and seconded by Cllr. Howard

Action: Clerk/RFO to purchase new cooker in accordance with financial regulations.  The grant to be accepted.

It was noted that the Secretary Of State for Housing Communities and Local Government Angela Rayner has paused the process of Local Government Reorganisation (5^th September 2026) including proposals for a North Warwickshire Unitary Authority and a South Warwickshire Unitary Authority.

Noted and closed.

None

None

a.          WALC Weekly Updates – Circulated

b.          NALC Updates – Circulated

c.          Alcester South SNT Police Reports – Circulated

d.          Presentation on the New National Scheme of delegation due to commence on 31 October 2026 – circulated

a)         Invitation to Stratford Area Meeting 24.09.26 – circulated

The following documents had been circulated:

a.          Equality and Diversity Policy.  No major changes made as there has been no change in Law since last approved.  Members agreed to adopt.  Next review due in September 2028.

b.          Publication scheme. No major changes made. Members agreed to adopt.  Next review September 2027.

c.          Illegal & Unauthorised encampment.  A What’s app group is in place for emergency alert.  Members agreed to adopt . Next review September 2028.

d.          Parish Emergency plan.  Cllr James reminded the Council that this was backed by Warwickshire CC, Stratford on Avon DC and all other agencies involved.  Western Power needs to be changed to National Grid on the policy.  Cllr James asked for nominations for additional Councillors to sit on the emergency group in case of holidays/absence in the event of an emergency such as the recent fire.

Cllrs McClean and Howarth agreed to join the emergency committee

a.           Payments: Consideration was given to the payments and transfers listed in Appendix A and to agree 2 Councillor signatures to sign the payment sheets.  These were all agreed by all Councillors.  Cllr Green proposed these are accepted, Cllr McClean seconded with unanimous approval.  Cllrs. Maud and Howarth to initial all the paperwork.

b.          Payments made between meetings. Members noted the payments made between meetings which totalled £33,701.13 for July – August and £62.86 for August to September.  These were authorised by the Chairman.  Cllr James proposed these are accepted, Cllr Green seconded with unanimous approval.  Cllrs. Maud and McLean to initial all the paperwork.
There was a query from Cllr Maude who questioned the high cost of TOPS electricity bill. Cllr James reported that new benches using recycled material cost £115 so in future it would be better to buy new rather than try and repair wooden benches.

Action: Clerk to ascertain why TOPS electricity bill is high.

c.          The external audit was noted and closed

d.          The current internal auditor is retiring and a replacement is required.

Action: Clerk to contact RFO to establish if Pebworth internal auditor could be approached.

e.          New National Joint Council pay scales have been awarded and back dated to 1^st April 2026.  Noted and closed.

f.            Members noted the bank account balances:

g.          The precept for the remaining six months of the financial year is due to be paid in September.  A BACS payment advice has been received from Stratford District Council.

Council confirmed the date of the next Ordinary Parish Council Meeting to be held on Wednesday 21^st October 2026 at 7 p.m.