- Present
- Cllr Jason Chettleburgh (Chair), Cllr Neil Marsden, Cllr Mark Shortt, Cllr Gary Kent, Cllr Sheila Preston, Cllr Dean Clarke
- Apologies for Absence
- Cllr Richard Mattocks (Vice Chair – unwell), Steve Smith (resigned), Jimmy Kent (resigned)
- In Attendance
- Jo Howe (Clerk), District Cllr Mrs L. Hadingham
- Members of the Public
- Katherine Johns, Tony Brian, Nicki Rogers, Steve Joy, Tony Mabbott
1. Welcome and Apologies
The Chair opened the meeting and noted apologies from Cllr Richard Mattocks due to illness.
2. Reports and Public Forum
Mr Steve Joy raised concerns regarding the ongoing issues surrounding the Old Coal House. The Chair advised that the boundary dispute is currently being managed by the Parish Council’s solicitors, and that the damp issue is under assessment through the Council’s insurers. It was confirmed that costs relating to the boundary dispute are being covered by insurance. A query regarding timescales was raised; however, no definitive timeframe is currently available.
Ms Katherine Johns queried the reason for further measurements being undertaken at the Coal House and requested an update regarding her compensation claim. She noted that failure to complete remedial works, as required by the insurer, could result in significant costs and stated that the damp issue is currently preventing works from being carried out. The Chair reiterated that the matter remains in the hands of the Council’s insurers and solicitors.
Mr Tony Brian raised the issue of a proposed 20 mph speed limit within the village. Members confirmed that advice received from Highways indicated that such an application would be unlikely to be approved. Cllr Marsden further advised that, following extensive discussions with Highways, the cost of applying would be considerable with little likelihood of success.
Mr Steve Joy requested the provision of additional dog waste bins. Cllr Marsden confirmed that the Council had previously resolved not to allocate further funds for this purpose; however, the matter will be reviewed.
Ms Katherine Johns raised concerns regarding broken glass in the car park. The Chair confirmed that the gardener has been instructed to address this issue.
3. Minutes of the Previous Meeting
The minutes of the previous meeting were approved and duly signed by the Chair.
Action: Clerk to publish the approved minutes on the Parish Council website.
4. Matters Arising
There were no matters arising.
5. Village Hall
A request has been received from the Village Hall Committee for funding towards the repair of a blown window. The Village Hall will obtain quotations and the PC will consider the matter at a future meeting.
The Council noted that a grant of £700 has been successfully secured and paid towards Village Hall repairs.
6. Road Closure
Members noted that Foxes Lane will be closed for a period of two months. Appropriate notices have been displayed on village notice boards.
7. Withersdale Street Church
Resolved: A payment of £356.62 be made to Withersdale Street Church in respect of lawn mower repairs.
8. Finance
- Village Hall Grant: £700 (received)
- Withersdale Street Church: £356.62 (approved)
- Precept: Agreed to remain unchanged for the 2026–2027 financial year
9. Correspondence
No correspondence was received.
10. Planning
No planning matters were considered.
11. Any Other Business
Members noted that the Mendham village road sign is due to be erected shortly.
12. Date of Next Meeting
The Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday 18 May 2026 at 7:00 pm in the Village Hall.
The meeting closed at 7:40 pm.
Signed: ___________________________ (Chair)
Date: ___________________________