Council Meeting TUESDAY 8.7.25

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

To approve the Minutes of the Parish Council Meeting held on 18^th June 2025 at the Memorial Hall, Salford Priors.

Planning Matters To Consider :

a) 25/01465/LBCProposed : Replacement of existing gas boiler for domestic heating and hot water with an air source heat pump. Heat exchanger to be located to the rear of the property. Addition of solar PV panels on the rear of the garage roof. Addition of EV charge point on South West elevation Ref: 25/01304/FUL at The Hayloft, Abbots Salford, Evesham, WR11 8UT

Planning Enforcement:

b)          Bomford Way Section 106 Non- compliance of offering Public Open Space to the Parish Council – to note a new S106 Officer has now been appointed and will be following this up.

c)         Priors Crescent – awaiting update from Bill Mann, Senior / Civils Contracts Manager, CALA Homes requesting the way forward regarding the recent refusal of the S106 Completion Certificate.

d)          Bomford Way – crossing of footway for creation of vehicle crossing – this has been referred back to the developers.

Planning applications dealt with by Planning Committee on 26.06.25

e)         25/01348/FUL Proposed Two Storey Extension and Single Storey Rear Extension at 7 Garrard Close Salford Priors WR11 8XG

Whilst the Parish Council raises no objection in principle to the proposed two-storey side extension and single-storey rear extension, this is subject to a condition that all external walls and roofing materials used in the construction of the extensions shall exactly match the type, texture, and colour of the existing building. This requirement is consistent with Stratford-on-Avon District Council’s Core Strategy Policy CS.9 (Design and Distinctiveness), which seeks to ensure that new development respects and enhances the character and appearance of the existing built form and surrounding area.

However, the Parish Council does express concern regarding the proposal to convert the entire frontage of the property into hardstanding to accommodate parking for three vehicles. While provision for two vehicles is considered acceptable and consistent with local expectations, the third space appears excessive and would significantly alter the character of the property’s frontage. Furthermore, there is currently no dropped kerb at this location, and the intensification of parking use may lead to highway safety issues and an adverse visual impact.

This level of hardstanding and vehicle parking would, in the Parish Council’s view, be contrary to Policy CS.5 (Landscape) and CS.9, which aim to maintain the character and quality of the local Streetscene. The proposal would result in the loss of green frontage and introduce a harsh urbanising effect that would be detrimental to the visual amenity of the area.

The Parish Council therefore respectfully requests that the Planning Authority considers these observations carefully and, if minded to approve the application, imposes appropriate conditions to mitigate these impacts.

f)         25/01244/LDE 54 Tothall Lane Dunnington Alcester B49 5NY Lawful Development Certificate to confirm Use of Land as garden/drive in association with the residential dwelling.

The Parish Council objects to the application for a Lawful Development Certificate for the proposed use of land as garden land associated with the residential dwelling at 54 Tothall Lane on the following grounds:

1. Insufficient Evidence Provided
   The applicant has failed to submit adequate and robust evidence to demonstrate that the land in question has been in continuous use as part of the residential curtilage for a minimum period of 10 years, as required under Section 191 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. The sole piece of evidence provided—a low-resolution and blurred 2017 Google Earth image—does not meet the standard of proof required for the granting of a Certificate. Case law such as Impey v SSE & Lake District SPB [1981] establishes that the burden of proof rests with the applicant and that evidence must be “sufficiently precise and unambiguous.”
2. Conflict with Public Footpath AL11
   The proposal would effectively incorporate land crossed by Public Footpath AL11 into the domestic curtilage. This would be incompatible with public access rights and potentially obstruct or alter the legally defined route of the public right of way. The proposed use would therefore conflict with Stratford-on-Avon District Council Core Strategy Policy CS.7 (Green Infrastructure), which seeks to protect and enhance public rights of way, and paragraph 100 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which states that planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and access.
3. Existing Agricultural/Original Boundary Still in Place
   The original garden boundary fence is still present and delineates a clear historical separation between the residential curtilage and adjacent land, which has historically not formed part of the domestic garden. No clear physical, functional, or visual evidence has been presented to show that the land in question has been used as private garden land.
4. Substandard Visibility and Highway Safety Concerns
   The access to the site currently does not achieve appropriate visibility splays to the south along Tothall Lane, which is subject to a 60mph national speed limit. The making lawful of this access point without improvements to visibility would pose a safety risk and conflict with Core Strategy Policy CS.26 (Transport and Communications) and paragraph 111 of the NPPF, which requires development to ensure safe and suitable access for all users.

Recommendation:
Given the lack of conclusive evidence, the conflict with a public right of way, and unresolved highway safety issues, the Parish Council considers that the application should be refused. The applicant should instead be invited to submit a full planning application where these matters can be assessed comprehensively in the context of the planning merits of the proposal, public consultation, and the full range of material considerations.

Planning Appeal For Information Only:

g)            25/00297/FUL Planning Inspectorate Reference Number: APP/J3720/D/25/3367679 – single storey extension (part retrospective) at 10 St Matthews Close, Salford Priors, Evesham, WR11 8UY. There is no opportunity to provide further comments. Items dealt with under planning committee.

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

a)          The 2 additional streetlights from Park Hall Mews sub-station to the junction of Tothall Lane are now installed, with the County Council’s contractor Balfour Beatty expected to connect the supply shortly.

b)         Vandalism at Perkins Close – The Forestry Team will also cut back the trees which are encroaching onto the carriageway at low level as well as the small tree encroaching towards the footway. Community payback will cut back the hedges once the bird nesting season has finished as these do not impact highway safety.

c)          Audio Equipment – making the Parish Council Meeting more accessible. The Chairman of the Memorial Hall Committee is exploring the acquisition of a portable sound system that can be used in the Memorial Hall and easily relocated to Dunnington for Parish Council meetings held there.

d)         Orbit Housing Association have granted permission for the installation of a new flower planter on the green at St Matthews Close. Quote awaited from amenity contractor.

e)          The School Warning triangle sign has been reported to Warwickshire County Council as it is very faded. This will be replaced within 12 months.

f)            Warwickshire County Council Highways have advised they have raised a works order for cutting the  hedging along School Rd which is very overgrown and is encroaching significantly onto the roadway posing a safety risk to both drivers and pedestrians.

g)          A burnt out caravan on Tothall Lane has been reported to Stratford District Council Streetscene as an abandoned vehicle.

h)          Holes on the footway outside 25 School Rd have been reported to Warwickshire County Council Highways.

i)             The lighting works at the Baptist Church Hall, Dunnington and the electrical works for the Parish Office will take place on Wednesday 16^th July.

j)             Telling My Own Story – a flyer has now been created and will be delivered with the Parish Connect magazine once printed.

Chairman’s Monthly Update:

a)          Dunnington Complaints regarding number of lorries using Tothall Lane depositing inert waster at the former Marsh Farm Quary.

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

–        Trees on corner of New Road, Dunnington on the verge of the B4088 have been trimmed.

–        Overgrown vegetation around the concrete planter, School Rd has been cleared.

–        The bus stop by BanBrook Rd has been cleared of all brambles.

b)         To consider future tasks to be issued :

Cut back vegetation 30mph Sign Tothall Lane Dunnington
Removal of old Grit/Salt Bin outside of Salford Priors Post Office

–        Consider quote for refurbishment of parish noticeboards.

a)          Infrastructure & Built Environment:

1)          Highways

2)          Public Open Space

3)          NDP –

1)          To consider any updates/progress on the Housing Needs Survey.
a) Council agreed for the Rural Housing Enabler to carry out further works to identify potential sites.
b) To consider passing a resolution calling on the Government to provide dedicated funding for Neighbourhood Plans

2)          Playing Field –

i.                  To consider email regarding the play area, Salford Priors.

ii.                  To note vandalism to the play area; Clerk has issued a Purchase Order for a replacement part which the Highways & Maintenance Officer will fit.

3)          Garden Allotments

4)          PROW To receive report from Mr Green on the Public Rights of Way within the Parish
a) Vegetation clearance to the proposed Leisure Trail Route Phase One – Carried Out
b) Request for lengthsmen to clear entrance to AL11 & AL15 Tothall Lane

b)         Communications Working Group – A meeting to be called by the Chairman of the Council
To consider delivery arrangements of the next edition of Parish Connect

c)          Project Delivery Group – The Chairman and the Clerk have proposed walking the first part of the route with the new Estate Manager at Ragley.

a)          To consider the purchase of trees at Abbot’s Salford,  Dunnington. Rushford & Salford Priors
To consider temporarily removing the new Salford Priors Village Sign to allow the Christmas Tree to be positioned on the traffic Island for December 2025

b)         To note the TOPs Chairman’s Annual Report, Annual General Meeting minutes & Financial Accounts.

c)          To consider registering The Vineyard Pub, Abbots Salford as a Community Asset.

d)         To note the Community Speed Watch (CSW) reports and consider the purchase of a new VAS.

e)          To consider the purchase of a further noticeboard for the Wood Bevington Area (CIL Funded) location to be finalised.

To note Warwickshire County Council are seeking to form a Local Government Reorganisation Working Group.

WALC with WCC are hosting an update meeting on 8^th July 2025 following their joint meeting held in March.

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).

Clerk – To consider nominating 1 voting representative at the WALC AGM which will take place on 12^th November 2025 – this year it will be online.  There is no limit to how many can attend the online AGM but only one person can vote.

a)          To consider response to WALC Membership Survey

b)         To consider response to resident regarding bin outside shop in Salford Priors.

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

a)          WALC Weekly Updates – Circulated

b)         NALC Updates – Circulated

c)          Thanks from Salford Priors Memorial Hall Committee for the grant awarded for toilet refurbishment.

a)          To consider and approve the first quarterly bank reconciliation, account balances and income and expenditure budgets

b)         To note payments made between meetings

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

d)         As there is no scheduled meeting in August, Council to approve that the Clerk will implement the delegated out of meeting Payment Process for all suppliers invoices and staff salaries to be paid in full with the authorisation of the Chairman.

e)          To consider a trial of laptops for members and the purchase of 4 laptops Budget sum of £1500.

f)            To consider the further grant request from Salford Priors Memorial Hall for new external doors.

g)          To note the bank account balances

To confirm the date of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting at 7.00pm on Wednesday 10^th September 2025 at the Baptist Church Hall, Dunnington.

Cllrs McClean & Price – approved

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 – Cllr James advised is a Director of Warwickshire Association of Local Councils.

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

a)          2 members of public were present:

–              No matters raised.

b)         No under 18s were present.

c)          District Councillor Stanley provided a verbal report outlining current matters relating to the wider District Council area.

d)         County Councillor Cliff Brown provided a verbal report outlining current matters relating to the County Council notably the resignation of the Leader, re-organisation and County Councillor Grants.

The Chairman closed the open forum and reconvened the meeting at 19:15

The Minutes of the Ordinary Parish Council Meeting held on Wednesday 18^th June 2025 at the Baptist Church Hall, Dunnington were agreed by the Council to be a true record of the meeting and signed by the Chairman.

Planning Matters Considered :

a)          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, the council agreed that Cllr James will draft a response indicating no objection to the proposal, reflecting the points raised.

Response submitted:

Salford Priors Parish Council has reviewed the full application and offers the following comments in relation to

the Stratford-on-Avon District Council Core Strategy, the Salford Priors Neighbourhood Development Plan

(NDP), the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), and the Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015:

Support in Principle:

• The site benefits from outline planning consent (Ref: 22/02053/OUT), establishing the principle of self-build residential development on the site.
• The Parish Council acknowledges the Government’s ongoing support for self-build and custom housebuilding as set out in:
  • NPPF (2023), Paragraph 62, which states that planning policies should reflect the needs of different groups, including “people wishing to commission or build their own homes.”
  • The Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 (as amended by the Housing and Planning Act 2016), which places a duty on local authorities to have regard to self-build demand when carrying out planning and housing functions.
  • The Planning Practice Guidance (PPG), which encourages local planning authorities to support development that meets demand on the Self-build Register.

Design and Character:

• The scale, massing, and form of the proposed dwelling are appropriate to the local context and reflect typical property sizes in the village.
• The use of local vernacular materials is supported, and the proposal accords with the Salford Priors Neighbourhood Development Plan (Policy SPNDP 2 and SPNDP 3) and the Stratford-on-Avon District Design Guide.
• The reduction in ridge height from 8.4m to 7.75m and the setback of the garage from the development line are both welcomed improvements, reducing visual impact and aligning with the built form of surrounding properties.

Design Quality and Conservation:

• The Parish Council considers the proposal to be well designed, in accordance with NPPF Paragraph 130, which seeks development that is visually attractive, sympathetic to local character, and establishes a strong sense of place.
• Concern is raised regarding potential light spillage, particularly as the site directly abuts the Salford Priors Conservation Area. The Council recommends conditions be considered to limit external lighting and mitigate its impact on heritage assets and the rural setting.

Self-Build Occupancy Condition:

• In line with the Government’s objectives to increase self-build housing delivery, the Parish Council requests a planning condition be applied to ensure the dwelling is occupied by the original self-build applicant for a minimum period of five years from first occupation.
  This aligns with:
  • NPPF Paragraph 62 (as noted above)
  • Planning Practice Guidance: Self-build and Custom Housebuilding (Paragraph 025 & 026, Reference ID: 57-025-20210508), which supports the use of conditions to secure genuine self-build occupation.

Construction and Residential Amenity:

• Local residents have raised concerns regarding the use of the private shared access for construction vehicles.
• The Parish Council recommends a condition restricting the hours of construction-related deliveries to:
  • Monday to Friday: 08:00–12:00
  • Saturday: 08:00–12:00
  • No deliveries outside these times, including Sundays and Bank Holidays

This is to protect residential amenity, in line with Core Strategy Policy CS.9 (Design and Distinctiveness) and

relevant environmental health considerations.

Conclusion:

The Parish Council supports the proposal in principle and recognises its potential to contribute positively to

meeting local self-build demand. However, the Council strongly recommends appropriate planning conditions

to secure genuine self-build occupation, control construction impacts, and protect the adjacent conservation

area.

Planning Enforcement:

b)         Bomford Way Section 106 Non- compliance of offering Public Open Space to the Parish Council – Clerk has spoken with Alison Willers, Senior Planning Officer, Stratford District Council who advised she has contacted Vistry Ltd and is awaiting a response.  The Officer will be in touch later in the month to advise the next steps.

c)          Priors Crescent – Clerk has received an email from Bill Mann, CALA Homes Ltd advising that all works will be completed during the next planting season (Autumn).

d)         Bomford Way – crossing of footway for creation of vehicle crossing – this has been referred back to the developers.

Matter closed as the matter is now  subject to County Highways, the developer and the householder to resolve.

Planning applications dealt with by Planning Committee on 26.06.25

e)         25/01348/FUL Proposed Two Storey Extension and Single Storey Rear Extension at 7 Garrard Close Salford Priors WR11 8XG

Whilst the Parish Council raises no objection in principle to the proposed two-storey side extension and single-storey rear extension, this is subject to a condition that all external walls and roofing materials used in the construction of the extensions shall exactly match the type, texture, and colour of the existing building. This requirement is consistent with Stratford-on-Avon District Council’s Core Strategy Policy CS.9 (Design and Distinctiveness), which seeks to ensure that new development respects and enhances the character and appearance of the existing built form and surrounding area.

However, the Parish Council does express concern regarding the proposal to convert the entire frontage of the property into hardstanding to accommodate parking for three vehicles. While provision for two vehicles is considered acceptable and consistent with local expectations, the third space appears excessive and would significantly alter the character of the property’s frontage. Furthermore, there is currently no dropped kerb at this location, and the intensification of parking use may lead to highway safety issues and an adverse visual impact.

This level of hardstanding and vehicle parking would, in the Parish Council’s view, be contrary to Policy CS.5 (Landscape) and CS.9, which aim to maintain the character and quality of the local Streetscene. The proposal would result in the loss of green frontage and introduce a harsh urbanising effect that would be detrimental to the visual amenity of the area.

The Parish Council therefore respectfully requests that the Planning Authority considers these observations carefully and, if minded to approve the application, imposes appropriate conditions to mitigate these impacts.

f)            25/01244/LDE 54 Tothall Lane Dunnington Alcester B49 5NY Lawful Development Certificate to confirm Use of Land as garden/drive in association with the residential dwelling.

The Parish Council objects to the application for a Lawful Development Certificate for the proposed use of land as garden land associated with the residential dwelling at 54 Tothall Lane on the following grounds:

1. Insufficient Evidence Provided
   The applicant has failed to submit adequate and robust evidence to demonstrate that the land in question has been in continuous use as part of the residential curtilage for a minimum period of 10 years, as required under Section 191 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. The sole piece of evidence provided—a low-resolution and blurred 2017 Google Earth image—does not meet the standard of proof required for the granting of a Certificate. Case law such as Impey v SSE & Lake District SPB [1981] establishes that the burden of proof rests with the applicant and that evidence must be “sufficiently precise and unambiguous.”
2. Conflict with Public Footpath AL11
   The proposal would effectively incorporate land crossed by Public Footpath AL11 into the domestic curtilage. This would be incompatible with public access rights and potentially obstruct or alter the legally defined route of the public right of way. The proposed use would therefore conflict with Stratford-on-Avon District Council Core Strategy Policy CS.7 (Green Infrastructure), which seeks to protect and enhance public rights of way, and paragraph 100 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which states that planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance public rights of way and access.
3. Existing Agricultural/Original Boundary Still in Place
   The original garden boundary fence is still present and delineates a clear historical separation between the residential curtilage and adjacent land, which has historically not formed part of the domestic garden. No clear physical, functional, or visual evidence has been presented to show that the land in question has been used as private garden land.
4. Substandard Visibility and Highway Safety Concerns
   The access to the site currently does not achieve appropriate visibility splays to the south along Tothall Lane, which is subject to a 60mph national speed limit. The making lawful of this access point without improvements to visibility would pose a safety risk and conflict with Core Strategy Policy CS.26 (Transport and Communications) and paragraph 111 of the NPPF, which requires development to ensure safe and suitable access for all users.

Recommendation:
Given the lack of conclusive evidence, the conflict with a public right of way, and unresolved highway safety issues, the Parish Council considers that the application should be refused. The applicant should instead be invited to submit a full planning application where these matters can be assessed comprehensively in the context of the planning merits of the proposal, public consultation, and the full range of material considerations.

Planning Appeal For Information Only:

g)          25/00297/FUL Planning Inspectorate Reference Number: APP/J3720/D/25/3367679 – single storey extension (part retrospective) at 10 St Matthews Close, Salford Priors, Evesham, WR11 8UY. There is no opportunity to provide further comments. Items dealt with under planning committee.

South Warwickshire Local Plan (SWLP):  Third call for sites has now been completed; the first two did not render sufficient submissions – the proposed sites have now been published on SWLP joint website.

a)          The 2 additional streetlights from Park Hall Mews sub-station to the junction of Tothall Lane are now installed, with the County Council’s contractor Balfour Beatty expected to connect the supply shortly.

b)          Vandalism at Perkins Close – The Forestry Team will also cut back the trees which were encroaching onto the carriageway at low level as well as the small tree encroaching towards the footway. Community payback will cut back the hedges once the bird nesting season has finished as these do not impact highway safety. Noted and Closed.

c)          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. A proposal and possible demonstration are expected at the September meeting.

d)          Orbit Housing Association have granted permission for the installation of a new flower planter on the green at St Matthews Close. Quote awaited from amenity contractor.

e)         The School Warning triangle sign has been reported to Warwickshire County Council as it is very faded. This will be replaced within 12 months. Noted and Closed

f)            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 will follow up with Warwickshire County Council Highways to report the current status.

g)           A burnt out caravan on the former quarry entrance in Tothall Lane has been reported to Stratford District Council Streetscene as an abandoned vehicle. The incident was attended by Warwickshire FRS and Warwickshire Police. Noted and Closed

h)          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.

i)             The lighting works at the Baptist Church Hall, Dunnington and the electrical works for the Parish Office will take place on Wednesday 16^th July.

j)             Telling My Own Story – a flyer has now been created and will be delivered with the Parish Connect magazine.

Chairman’s Monthly Update:

Dunnington complaints regarding number of lorries using Tothall Lane depositing inert waste at the former Marsh Farm Quarry. Stratford District Council’s Enforcement team became involved and advised the lorry drivers on the appropriate route to use. This prompted further investigation into whether the works being carried out were permitted under agricultural planning regulations. It has since been determined that the works do not fall within the scope of agricultural planning, and the individuals involved will now be required to submit a formal planning application. The use of the former quarry lakes for leisure fishing activities may also require a retrospective planning application.

a)          Members noted the following jobs issued from last Council meeting; comment on progress

–        Trees on corner of New Road, Dunnington on the verge of the B4088 have been trimmed.

–        Overgrown vegetation around the concrete planter, School Rd has been cleared.

–        The bus stop by BanBrook Rd has been cleared of all brambles.

b)          To consider future tasks to be issued :

–        Cut back vegetation 30mph Sign Tothall Lane, Dunnington

–        Removal of old Grit/Salt Bin outside of Salford Priors Post Office

–        A quote of £1,5000 has been considered for the refurbishment of 5 parish noticeboards. This involves taking them to a workshop, sanding down, carrying out any repairs and re-varnishing with a high quality varnish. Cllr Meakins proposed the quote is accepted with Cllr Green seconding, Unanimous approval.

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

1)          Highways – 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 5c

3)         NDP:

–        Council agreed for the Rural Housing Enabler to carry out further works to identify potential sites. Cllrs to also identify any potential sites and report to Clerk before 10^th July.

–        Salford Priors Parish Council acknowledges that:

o   Neighbourhood planning empowers local communities to shape the development and growth of their areas through the creation of Neighbourhood Plans.

o   The preparation of Neighbourhood Plans requires significant time, expertise, and financial resources, often placing a burden on parish and town councils.

o   Neighbourhood Plans contribute to more democratic, locally-informed planning decisions and support the delivery of sustainable development aligned with community needs and aspirations.

Therefore it is resolved to –

o   Call upon His Majesty’s Government to provide increased and sustained funding to support the development, review, and implementation of Neighbourhood Plans.

o   Request that the Government ensures funding is accessible to all communities, to promote inclusivity and fairness in the planning process.

o   Write to MP Manuela Perteghella and the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities, and Local Government to communicate this resolution and advocate for enhanced support for neighbourhood planning

4)         Playing Field

i.                  Members noted the email regarding the play area, Salford Priors.

ii.                  Members noted the vandalism to the play area; Clerk has issued a Purchase Order for a replacement part which the Highways & Maintenance Officer will fit.

5)          Garden Allotments – Judging to take place shortly; Clerk to forward judging sheet to Cllr Green

6)         PROW Officer report:

a)          Vegetation clearance to the proposed Leisure Trail Route Phase One completed

b)          Vegetation clearance on AL10 & AL16 completed

c)          Request for Lengthsman to clear entrance to AL11 & AL15 Tothall Lane

d)          AL4 clearance works still to be completed.

c)          Communications – A meeting to be called by the Chairman of the Council with a view to compiling a Village Directory. Members will arrange for the delivery of the Parish Connect.

d)         Project Delivery Group – The Chairman and the Clerk have proposed walking the first part of the route with the new Estate Manager at Ragley.

Council noted:

·       The protracted delay from the landowners in responding to the draft legal agreements.

·       That the CIL extension grant request to 31st March 2028 has been forwarded by the clerk to Angela Lloyd, CIL & S106 Compliance Officer.

a)          Following a discussion regarding the Parish Christmas trees, Cllr Green proposed the purchase of Christmas trees at Abbot’s Salford, Dunnington, Rushford & Salford Priors. Cllr Richardson seconded, unanimous approval.

b)          Following discussion regarding the Salford Priors Village Christmas tree, Members agreed to the temporary removal of the new Salford Priors Village sign, when necessary, to allow the Christmas Tree to be positioned on the traffic Island for December 2025. Following the adoption of the Priors Crescent Public Open Space, the POS will be the permanent position of the Salford Priors Village Christmas Tree.

c)          Members noted the TOPs Chairman’s Annual Report, Annual General Meeting minutes & Financial Accounts.

d)          Following Cllr Meakins’ suggestion to consider nominating The Vineyard Pub as an Asset of Community Value, supporting statements were provided by Cllr Meakins and read by Cllr Maude in his absence. The matter was discussed in full. Cllr Howarth proposed that the Council do not pursue the nomination. Cllr Richardson proposed an amendment to proceed with the nomination. There being no seconders the substantive motion not to proceed with the listing was carried by the majority vote.

e)          Following receipt of information including details of the Community Speed Watch Team’s activities within Salford Priors, Cllr James proposed that the Parish Council purchase a new speed gun for the Community Speed Watch (CSW) Team, based on their recent data recording activity sheets. The team also shared upcoming dates for future speed checks. Cllr Maude seconded the proposal, and it was unanimously approved.

f)            Cllr James proposed the purchase of a further noticeboard for the Wood Bevington Area (CIL Infrastructure funding – Community Engagement). Cllr Richardson second. Unanimous approval.  Location to be finalised.

a)          WALC & NALC with WCC are hosting an update meeting on 8^th July 2025 following their joint meeting held in March. This is being recorded and will be made available to those not able to be present.

b)         Warwickshire County Council is forming a small Local Government Reorganisation Working Group of interested Parish Councils; Salford Priors has indicated its interest.

Clerk – Members approved that Cllr James will be the voting representative at the WALC AGM which will take place on 12^th November 2025 – this year it will be online.  There is no limit to how many can attend the online AGM but only one person can vote.

a)          Members reviewed and responded to the WALC Membership Survey, with the Clerk recording their answers.

b)          An email has been received providing information about the overflowing bin outside the shop, stating this is a regular occurrence and requesting either a larger, or second bin at the location. Following discussion this request was declined. Members are concerned about installing a larger bin negatively impacting the street scene and potentially leading to increased rubbish accumulation in the area. Clerk to advise that overflowing bins can be reported via Streetscene, Stratford upon Avon District Council.

a)          WALC Weekly Updates – Circulated

b)          NALC Updates – Circulated

c)          Thanks from Salford Priors Memorial Hall Committee for the grant awarded for toilet refurbishment.

a)          Consideration was given to the first quarterly bank reconciliation, account balances and income and expenditure budgets. It was resolved by all Councillors that these be accepted.

b)          Members noted the payments made between meetings:

c)          The council gave consideration and approval of the payments listed in Appendix A.  It was proposed to accept these by Cllr Green seconded by Cllr Maude and agreed by all Councillors. It was agreed that Cllrs Richardson & Howarth 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.

d)         As there is no scheduled meeting in August, Council to approve that the Clerk will implement the delegated out of meeting payment process for all suppliers invoices and staff salaries to be paid in full with the authorisation of the Chairman.

e)          Cllr James proposed to consider a trial of laptops for members and the purchase of 4 laptops due to issues being experienced with Members current council issued tablets, with a provisional budget set of £1500 total to come from General Reserves. Cllr Howarth seconded. Unanimous approval. Cllr Maude to investigate.

f)            Members considered the Community Fund grant application for replacement doors for the Memorial Hall, Salford Priors. It was decided not to approve this; the Community Fund has a total of £1,000 in the current financial year; this application would exceed this allowance and leave no funds available for other local community groups who may wish to apply. Some infrastructure projects may be eligible for support through CIL monies, however the Parish Council requires at least 3 comparable independent quotations to consider this. In this instance, only one quote was provided. The Community/CIL Grant Form will be reviewed and made clearer for applicants to understand the necessary requirements for supporting documentation for CIL grant consideration.

g)           Members noted the bank account balances

Council confirmed the date of the next Ordinary Parish Council Meeting on Wednesday 10^th September 2025 at 7.00pm in the Memorial Hall, Salford Priors.