Council Meeting 10.9.25

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 Lauren Stanley

–        WCC – Cllr Cliff Brown

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

a)          To approve the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on Tuesday 8^th July 2025 at the Baptist Church Hall, Dunnington.

b)         To note the minutes of the recent Planning Committee meeting held on Wednesday 13^th August 2025 in the Eddie Clarke Suite, Salford Priors Memorial Hall.

Planning Matters To Consider :

a)         25/01982/TREE Proposed : T1 beech – reduce height of tree by approximately 5 metres, to 9 metres, level with the chimney/ridge, as part of similar past crown reductions. Prune back side branches, to 2.5 metres from main stem T2 ash – fell at The Gables, Station Road, Salford Priors, Evesham WR11 8UX

Planning Comments to Note:

b)         25/01406/FUL Proposed : Erection of 1 no. self build dwelling including elongation of existing private drive and other associated works at Kanzi, Evesham Road, Salford Priors, Evesham WR11 8UU. Following discussion at Parish Council meeting on 8^th July it was agreed Cllr James would provide comments. Please contact the Clerk for a copy or visit

https://apps.stratford.gov.uk/EPlanningv2/AppDetail/DocumentsV2/12e2d3c4-bf8a-ccd2-8e4e-08ddad72e05b

c)         25/01826/LDE Proposed – Existing use of Land as domestic curtilage associated with

dwellinghouse Rough Hill at Rough Hill, Low Road, Church Lench, Evesham WR11 4UH

Decisions:

d)          25/01559/FUL proposed garage extension and orangery at Rough Hill, Low Road, Church Lench, Evesham WR11 4UH. Planning Permission is Granted subject to conditions

Planning Enforcement:

e)          Bomford Way Section 106 Non- compliance of offering Public Open Space to the Parish Council –to note Clerk has contacted the S106 Officer for an update.

f)            Priors Crescent – to note the Senior Planning Officer has asked CALA Homes to withdraw the S106A request due to the number of failures.

South Warwickshire Local Plan (SWLP):  The Preferred Options Consultation Representations has now been published  (emailed 3.9.25)

a)         Clerk has requested a connection date for the 2 additional streetlights from Park Hall Mews sub-station to the junction of Tothall Lane.

b)         Audio Equipment – making the Parish Council Meeting more accessible. The Chairman of the Memorial Hall Committee is investigating a portable sound system that can be used both in the Memorial Hall and at Dunnington Parish Council meetings. The budget costs – £140.00 (12 Chanel Mixer Deck) £160.00 (10” speaker) £75.00 (3 additional desk microphones) £75.00 (Lockable Cabinet) £50.00 (leads & accessories)

c)         The installation of the new flower planter on the green at St Matthews Close will be installed in the autumn.

d)         Warwickshire County Council Highways have confirmed that a works order has been raised to cut back the overgrown hedging along School Road. The hedge is significantly encroaching onto the roadway, creating a safety hazard for both drivers and pedestrians. Whilst one householder has addressed the lower-level growth, the hedge still requires proper levelling. The Clerk has chased once again.

e)         Holes on the footway outside 25 School Road identified as a severe trip hazard were reported to Warwickshire County Council Highways. The defects were initially repaired within three days; however, the holes have since reappeared. It is suspected that rodent activity may be contributing to the recurring issue. The matter has been reported again to the relevant authorities for further investigation and resolution. No further update.

f)            The lighting works at the Baptist Church Hall, Dunnington and the electrical works for the Parish Office have now taken place.

g)          Painting works in the Parish Office are booked in for 15^th September.

h)         Dropped kerb accident, School Road – Frank Daley (Development Team Senior Engineer, Section 38/278/184 Minor Works) has attempted to contact the developer, including the Managing Director, but has not received any response. The Clerk has now shared her CALA contact details in the hope this will generate a reply.

i)            The Local Council Award Scheme requested further information on certain items, once this is provided, they have confirmed they are happy to grant the Bronze award.

j)            To note Clerk wrote to the owners of the Queens Head, Irons Cross regarding the untidy appearance requesting clearance works take place. The owners have responded advising they will be carrying out these works in the next few weeks.

k)          The soil stockade at St Matthews Churchyard has been installed.

l)            The replacement School Warning Triangle on School Rd has now been installed.

m)      The installation works for the new bench by the bus stop outside Willow Park has been completed.

n)         Additional watering of the Parish Council Trees on the Priors Crescent POS has been authorised.

o)         To note vandalism to the bus stop, School Rd. This has been reported to the police and descriptions and photos provided to them by a resident. Replacement glass panel is in the process of being ordered.

p)         Complaint received regarding rodent infestation (Rats) Perkins Close bungalows – forwarded to Orbit Housing Association

q)         Overgrown Vegetation obstructing footway between Salford Priors / Abbots Salford

Chairman’s Monthly Update:

a)          Complaint received regarding the overnight parking of a HGV on the school drop off pick up layby on School Road.

b)          Complaint received regarding parking on Ridsdale / Perkins Close.

c)          Complaint received regarding Road Traffic Sign being obscured by tree overgrowth Park Hall Mews.

d)          Complaint received regarding running water former gravel quarry entrance Tothall Lane.

e)          Concern raised over obscure traffic sign north of Dunnington crossroads.

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

o   Bus stop clearance works on School Rd have taken place

o   Trimmed around 30mph sign by AL15

o   Cleaned poster off bus stop outside shop

o   Investigated the old grit bin, currently has bricks in so will clear and collect at a later date

o   Emergency works at the small roundabout on School Avenue – picked up the grit bin and re-installed the salt. This is damaged so Clerk has ordered a replacement.

b)         To consider future tasks to be issued

a)          Infrastructure & Built Environment:

1)          Highways – still waiting for final quotations for improvement works to School Rd by Priors Crescent (the old bus stop)

2)          Public Open Space – covered under agenda item 5e.

3)          NDP – to consider possible sites for affordable housing by the WRCC Rural Housing Enabler.

4)          Playing Field – to receive update regarding broken toddler bridge

5)          Garden Allotments

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

b)         Communications

c)          Planning – Committee met on 13^th August 2025.

d)         Project Delivery Group –

–        to note various emails from Carol Ramsden and consider a response

–        to consider response to Ragley regarding permissive right of way

–        To consider quotes for indicative costs for planning consultants

a)          To note the new speed camera has now been purchased, along with a 2 year accidental damage and breakdown cover. The old speed camera has be returned to the Parish Council.

b)         To note six monthly fire alarm check has been carried out at TOPs.

c)          To note Warwickshire County Council is looking for volunteers to become Independent Panel Members to hear school admission appeals. Clerk has advertised this via the usual channels.

To note emails regarding local Government reorganisation and consider responding to the consultation – Have your say – Shaping the future of our Councils.  Comments due by 14^th September. (forwarded 20.08.25)

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).

a)          Cllr Richardson – consider invitation from MP Manuela Perteghela to meet her at the Houses of Parliament.

b)         Cllr Meakins – consideration of additional dog waste bins in the parish

c)          Cllr James – Council – “What next” to consider holding a member development evening to discuss a Vision for the future.

a)          Email from MP Manuela Perteghela regarding A46(T).

b)         Email from resident regarding access and The Greenway.

c)          Participate in Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution Survey for Town and Parish Councils and Parish Meetings

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

a)          WALC Weekly Updates – Circulated

b)         NALC Updates – Circulated

c)          Email from resident regarding HGV parking on School Rd and response.

d)         Police Reports

e)          Affordable Housing Standing Advice Note (emailed 2.9.25)

a)          Publication Scheme Review

b)         Code of Conduct Review

c)          Privacy Notice Review

a)          2025/2026 Local Government provisional budget forecasts.

b)         To note external audit report (if received in time) and consider any actions necessary.

c)          To consider the grant request of £1200 from Salford Priors Village Christmas tree Switch On Event Committee.

d)         To note the payments made listed in Appendix A for August

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

f)            To note payments made between 8.7.25-19.8.25

g)          To note payments made between 19.8.25-10.9.25

h)         To note new National Joint Council pay scales and back dated pay award to 1^st April 2025.

i)           To formalise the procurement of a new Amenities Maintenance Contract 2026/2030. To appoint three councillors to assess the financial returns and formalise the tender report.

i)            To note the bank account balances

To confirm the date of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting at 7.00pm on Wednesday 15^th October 2025 at the Memorial Hall Salford Priors.

Cllrs Maude & Price – apologies accepted

Non Attendance – Cllr Stanley

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:

–              He is a member of the CSW team and advised the new speed gun has been used on a few occasions throughout the summer and is much easier to use.

–              Complimented the new Greenway fencing but raised concern that it blocks a long-used walking route, leading them to climb the fence for access. Cllr James clarified that there is no public right of way (PROW) across the landowners’ fields and that the fencing was installed at the landowners’ request to prevent access and to stop dogs roaming freely. The resident stated that they had used the route for over 25 years and felt this could be challenged. Cllr James explained that any formal application to designate a new PROW could take 10 years or more, and with the unitary authority due to assume responsibility in 2028, the process could be further delayed. The resident’s comments were noted for consideration in future stages of the Greenway project. Cllr James strongly advised against climbing the fence.

b)         No under 18s were present.

c)          County Councillor Cliff Brown’s Report – Not present, no report received.

d)         District Councillor Stanley’s Report – Not present, no report received.

The Chairman closed the open forum and reconvened the meeting at 19:25

a)          The Minutes of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting held on Tuesday 8^th July 2025 at the Memorial Hall, Salford Priors were agreed by the Council to be a true record of the meeting and signed by the Chairman.

b)          Members noted the minutes of the recent Planning Committee meeting held on Wednesday 13^th August 2025 in the Eddie Clarke Suite, Salford Priors Memorial Hall.

Applications Considered:

a)          25/01982/TREE Proposed : T1 beech – reduce height of tree by approximately 5 metres, to 9 metres, level with the chimney/ridge, as part of similar past crown reductions. Prune back side branches, to 2.5 metres from main stem T2 ash – fell at The Gables, Station Road, Salford Priors, Evesham WR11 8UX. Following consideration Clerk to respond with “No comment”

Planning Comments to Note:

b)          25/01406/FUL Proposed : Erection of 1 no. self-build dwelling including elongation of existing private drive and other associated works at Kanzi, Evesham Road, Salford Priors, Evesham WR11 8UU. Following discussion at Parish Council meeting on 8^th July it was agreed Cllr James would provide comments. Please contact the Clerk for a copy or visit https://apps.stratford.gov.uk/EPlanningv2/AppDetail/DocumentsV2/12e2d3c4-bf8a-ccd2-8e4e-08ddad72e05b

c)          25/01826/LDE Proposed – Existing use of Land as domestic curtilage associated with dwellinghouse Rough Hill at Rough Hill, Low Road, Church Lench, Evesham WR11 4UH. This application was discussed at the planning meeting on 13^th August.

Decisions:

d)          25/01559/FUL proposed garage extension and orangery at Rough Hill, Low Road, Church Lench, Evesham WR11 4UH. Planning Permission is Granted subject to conditions

Planning Enforcement:

e)          Bomford Way Section 106 Non- compliance of offering Public Open Space to the Parish Council –Members noted the Senior Planning Officer has written to Vistry Ltd who have so far only acknowledged receipt but not provided a substantive response. The requirements have been clearly communicated, and the Officer has followed up again hoping for a response going into September.

f)            Priors Crescent – Members noted the Senior Planning Officer has asked CALA Homes to withdraw the S106A request due to the number of failures. This means the Public Open Space cannot be offered to the Parish Council until the certificate is granted.

South Warwickshire Local Plan (SWLP): 

The Preferred Options Consultation Representations have now been published. Stratford District Council recently lost a major planning inquiry appeal concerning several hundred houses to which they had objected. The Planning Inspector ruled that the Council has only a 2.3-year land supply, rather than the 5+ years previously claimed. Cllr James reported, following discussions with the Senior Planning Officer, that this shortfall is likely to open the way for a significant increase in planning applications.

a)          Clerk has requested a connection date for the 2 additional streetlights from Park Hall Mews sub-station to the junction of Tothall Lane, members were dismayed by the lack of progress by the County Council’s contractor.

b)          Audio Equipment – making the Parish Council Meeting more accessible. The Chairman of the Memorial Hall Committee has been investigating a portable sound system that can be used both in the Memorial Hall and at Dunnington Parish Council meetings. The budget costs – £140.00 (12 Channel Mixer Deck) £160.00 (10” speaker) £75.00 (3 additional desk microphones) £75.00 (Lockable Cabinet) £50.00 (leads & accessories). Cllr James proposed this equipment is purchased, Cllr Howarth seconded. Unanimous approval.

c)          The installation of the new flower planter on the green at St Matthews Close will be installed in the autumn.

d)          Warwickshire County Council Highways have confirmed that a works order has been raised to cut back the overgrown hedging along School Road. The hedge was significantly encroaching onto the roadway, creating a safety hazard for both drivers and pedestrians. Whilst one householder has addressed the lower-level growth, the hedge still requires proper levelling. The Clerk has chased once again.

e)          Holes on the footway outside 25 School Road identified as a severe trip hazard were reported to Warwickshire County Council Highways. The defects were initially repaired within three days; however, the holes have since reappeared. It is suspected that rodent activity may be contributing to the recurring issue. The matter has been reported again to the relevant authorities for further investigation and resolution. No further update.

f)            The lighting works at the Baptist Church Hall, Dunnington and the electrical works for the Parish Office have now taken place. The new lighting scheme has made a significant improvement within the hall. Resolved.

g)           Redecoration of the Parish Office are scheduled for 15^th September.

h)          Dropped kerb accident, School Road – Frank Daley (Development Team Senior Engineer, Section 38/278/184 Minor Works) has attempted to contact the developer, including the Managing Director, but has not received any response. The Clerk has now shared her CALA contact details in the hope this will generate a reply.

i)             The Local Council Award Scheme requested further information on certain items; once this is provided, they have confirmed they are happy to grant the Bronze award.

j)             Clerk has written to the owners of the Queens Head, Irons Cross regarding the untidy appearance requesting clearance works take place. The owners have responded advising they will be carrying out these works in the next few weeks – these have been commenced. Resolved

k)           The replacement soil stockade at St Matthews Churchyard has been installed. Resolved

l)             The replacement school warning triangle on School Rd has now been installed. Resolved

m)       The installation works for the new bench by the bus stop outside Willow Park has been completed. Resolved

n)          Additional watering of the Parish Council trees on the Priors Crescent POS has been authorised. Resolved

o)          Vandalism to the bus stop, School Rd was noted. This has been reported to the police and descriptions and photos provided to them by a resident. Replacement glass panel is in the process of being ordered.

p)          Complaint received regarding rodent infestation (Rats) Perkins Close bungalows – forwarded to Orbit Housing Association

q)          Overgrown vegetation obstructing footway between Salford Priors/Abbots Salford – landowner has been advised.

r)            The yew tree on the green at Ban Brook Rd has been reported Warwickshire County Council, Forestry Department, as its trunk is damaged causing a large branch to break.

s)          The old water valve marker on School Avenue has been reported to Severn Trent Water.

Chairman’s Monthly Update:

Complaints received regarding:

a)          the overnight parking of an HGV on the school drop off pick up layby on School Road.

b)          parking on Ridsdale/Perkins Close. The Clerk has contacted Warwickshire County Council and Orbit Housing to establish responsibility for the land. Once confirmed, a request will be made for line painting to indicate the correct parking arrangement and maximise capacity.

c)          road traffic sign being obscured by tree overgrowth Park Hall Mews. Cllr James to provide a photo for the Lengthsman.

d)          running water, former gravel quarry entrance Tothall Lane.

e)          Concern raised over obscure traffic sign north of Dunnington crossroads. Cllr James to provide a photo for the Lengthsman.

f)            It was confirmed that Priors Grange has not been adopted by Warwickshire County Council. This has caused an issue with the sale of a property on Priors Grange. The responsibility for maintenance and repair is with the Orbit Housing Association, resident advised.

Works carried out:

–        Bus stop clearance works on School Rd have taken place

–        Trimmed around 30mph sign by AL15

–        Cleaned poster off bus stop outside shop

–        Investigated the old grit bin outside the shop on School Rd, currently has bricks in so will clear and collect at a later date.

–        Emergency works at the small roundabout on School Avenue – picked up the grit bin and re-installed the salt. This is damaged so Clerk has ordered a replacement grit bin.

New Tasks:

–        Trim round grit bin and post box by Dunnington School

–        Trim round traffic sign north of Dunnington crossroads

–        Trim round road traffic sign being obscured by tree overgrowth Park Hall Mews

–        Cleaning road signs around the parish

–        Ensure the footway outside St Matthews Church is cleared ahead of Remembrance Sunday.

a)          Infrastructure & Built Environment: Members noted the report:

1)          Highways – An estimate of £8,646.08 for improvement works to School Road at Priors Crescent (former bus stop) was received.  The works will make a significant impact on the visual character of the area improve visibility when exiting from Priors Crescent. It will also help to prevent unauthorised parking on the verge. Cllr James proposed acceptance of the estimate, Cllr R Green seconded. The proposal was approved unanimously. The Clerk will confirm acceptance with Warwickshire County Council Highways and request a scheduled installation date.

2)          Public Open Space – covered under agenda item 5e

3)          NDP – The WRCC Rural Housing Enabler has proposed potential sites for affordable housing. She was unable to attend the meeting; therefore, Cllr James suggested that Members consider arranging an informal meeting with her. Following this, Members would be able to make an informed decision at a future Parish Council meeting.

4)          Playing Field –

–        the vandalised toddler bridge has now been repaired.

–        The rope walk was also reported as damaged – this repair has also taken place.

–        The roundabout has been repaired by Kompan.

5)          Garden Allotments – The allotments have been independently judged on three occasions for the Garden Allotment Competition 2025. The awards evening will take place in November

6)          PROW – The Lengthsman has carried out clearance works on the following PROW – AL4, AL11, AL15 & AL16

Communications – Cllr Richardson is exploring potential strategies for the Parish Connect magazine. The communications group have been requested to look at a new communications strategy following feedback from the NALC LCA awards panel.

b)          Project Delivery Group –

–        Members noted that Carol Ramsden, Consultant – Public Access to Land, Planning and Environment at Birketts, has been asked to prepare an overview of the project. Once completed, this will be presented to the Parish Council for consideration of the next steps.

–        One quote has been received to date for indicative costs for planning consultants.

–        Cllr James confirmed the request to Stratford on Avon District Council for an extension to the CIL grant for the Greenway project has been approved. This has been granted to 31^st March 2028.

–        The Council noted that works required on land under the ownership of third parties could only proceed with the agreement and consent of the respective landowners and their representatives. The landowners had initially requested use of their own contractors due to security, health & safety, and contractor management considerations (industrial manufacturing site and active arable farmland). Following negotiation, agreement was reached for the Parish Council’s approved amenity contractor—appointed through a compliant tender process under the Public Contracts Regulations 2015—to carry out the works, subject to meeting the landowners’ operational requirements. It was acknowledged that three fresh competitive quotations could not be obtained in this instance. However, the Council resolved that this constituted an exceptional circumstance in line with its Financial Regulations and was consistent with Regulation 72(1)(b) of the Public Contracts Regulations 2015 and the direct award/exempted contract provisions of the Procurement Act 2023. This exception was formally discussed and accepted by Council.

–        The steps at the start of the route off Bomford Way have now been removed and an accessible ramp has now been constructed; this work will provide an accessible access for all users of the route especially those with mobility issues. The main access gate has now been locked and code/key issued to the landowner Alamo Group.

a)          Members noted the new speed camera has now been purchased, along with a 2-year accidental damage and breakdown cover. This is working extremely well. The old speed camera has been returned to the Parish Council. It was resolved to offer the speed camera via Police & Crime Commissioner for use if required.

b)          Members noted the six-monthly fire alarm check has been carried out at TOPs. No issues reported.

c)          Members noted Warwickshire County Council is looking for volunteers to become Independent Panel Members to hear school admission appeals. Clerk has advertised this via the usual social media channels.

Members noted the emails concerning local government reorganisation. WALC’s Stratford Area Committee is inviting all Parish Councils in the Stratford District to a Zoom meeting on Thursday, 2nd October, to discuss the proposed unitary reorganisation when the Leaders of Warwickshire County Council and Stratford on Avon District Council will be the guest speakers. The Clerk will forward the invitation to all Councillors once received.

a)          Cllr Richardson – Members noted the opportunity of arranging a group visit to the House of Commons. They have been asked to indicate their interest so that a list can be compiled. A set of prospective dates will then be circulated to those expressing interest.

b)          Cllr Meakins – consideration of additional dog waste bins in the parish. Cllrs were advised there are currently 17 dog bins throughout the parish, and standard litter bins can also be used for dog waste. Cllr Green confirmed that the bins are emptied regularly and will continue to carry out routine checks. Cllr Richardson proposed a potential way forward, which he will investigate and report back to the Council at the October meeting.

c)          Cllr James – Council – “What next” to consider holding a member development evening to discuss a Vision for the future. Prospective dates to be provided.

d)          Cllr Richardson – invest in a portable wi-fi hub – he will put together some information and bring it to the October meeting.

a)          The emails from MP Manuela Perteghela regarding A46(T) were noted. Works to Evesham A46 bypass are due to commence June 2026. No further update regarding Salford Priors roundabout.

b)          Email from resident regarding access to The Greenway – discussed during Open Forum.

c)          Members considered responses to the Local Government Reorganisation and Devolution Survey for Town and Parish Councils and Parish Meetings which were completed by the Clerk online.

a)          WALC Weekly Updates – Circulated

b)          NALC Updates – Circulated

c)          Email from resident regarding HGV parking on School Rd and response.

d)          Alcester South SNT Police Reports – Circulated

e)          Affordable Housing Standing Advice Note

a)          Publication Scheme Review – agreed

b)          Code of Conduct Review – agreed

c)          General Privacy Notice Review – agreed

a)          2025/2026 Local Government provisional budget forecasts. Cllr James provided an update on recent Government announcements regarding local government funding reforms under the Fair Funding Review 2.0. The new funding model will permanently change how financial need is assessed and how much councils can raise locally through council tax. These changes will be phased in over the next three years, with an assumed 5% annual council tax rise by principal councils. Analysis from the County Councils Network (CCN) suggests county and rural areas may face real-terms reductions in funding, as the Government moves to fully equalise council tax receipts across the country. This change could see £1.6bn of council tax income redistributed away from county areas, with 32 out of 38 rural authorities estimated to lose a combined £400 million.

The Parish Council noted the potential impacts on local services and the likelihood of increased reliance on Parish Councils to support or provide community-level services. Members acknowledged the need for prudent financial planning and budgeting in future years.

b)          Members noted the external audit report has still not been received. This is due by the end of September.

c)          Members considered the grant request of £1200 from Salford Priors Village Christmas tree Switch On Event Committee. Cllr James provided some background to the Parish Council funding Christmas trees for the Parish going back to 2015. Members fully discussed the grant request the Community Grant Fund is not intended to subsidise food or provide free refreshments at events. The fund exists to support initiatives that deliver lasting community value — not to underwrite public entertainment or hospitality simply to have a good time at the expense of parish ratepayers. This year, the Parish Council has a defined Christmas budget of approximately £3,500, which is used to provide and install four fully lit Christmas trees across the parish. This is a significant and inclusive investment in festive celebrations for all parish residents.

The request for £1,200 exceeded the 2025/26 Community Fund budget therefore the request was formally refused.

d)          Members approved the payments (Appendix A) made in August.

e)          The council gave consideration and approval of the payments listed in Appendix B.  It was proposed to accept these by Cllr McClean seconded by Cllr Howarth and agreed by all Councillors. It was agreed that Cllrs Green & McClean would sign the payments sheet confirming the payments in Appendix A have been approved by full Council and there is provision within the budget, financial regulations and relevant policies have been followed.

f)            Members approved the payments made between 8.7.25-19.8.25 under delegated powers.

g)           Members approved the payments made between 19.8.25-10.9.25 under delegated powers.

h)          Members resolved for Cllrs Richardson & Howarth to be added to the Bank accounts as signatories.

i)            Members noted the new National Joint Council pay scales and back dated pay award to 1^st April 2025.

j)             The Clerk is formalising the procurement of the 2026–2030 Amenities Maintenance Contract. Cllrs Howarth, Richardson, and Price were appointed to assess the financial returns and finalise the tender report, following a proposal from Cllr James, which was agreed by Members.

k)           Members noted the bank account balances:

Council confirmed the date of the next Ordinary Parish Council Meeting on Wednesday 15^thOctober 2025 at 7.00pm in the Memorial Hall, Salford Priors.