In today’s world of social media and speculation, it’s easy for facts to get lost. At Windlesham Parish Council, we publish all agendas, minutes, and financial information on our website. Instead of relying on third-party information, we encourage residents to refer to the published minutes, the official legal record of council business, for a clear and accurate understanding of council matters.
This fact check has been prepared in direct response to the claims made in a letter recently circulated to residents.
Claim 1: “Council tax was raised by 56% over two years.”
True – but missing context.
The facts:
• The parish precept did rise by 56%, but only after 8 years of minimal increases (14.5% from 2016–2024, despite inflation rising over 40%).
• Additional funds (£25,000) were allocated to Windlesham Cemetery, and matched fairly across all villages.
• In 2025–26, the rise was 8.27%, with Band D households paying £65.29 annually.
• By comparison, Band D precepts for neighbouring parish councils are: Bisley £70.30, West End £69.86 & Chobham £50.52
• All decisions were made publicly and are recorded in council minutes.
Claim 2: “Windlesham subsidises the other villages.”
False.
• Windlesham contributes 26% of the total precept. Lightwater and Bagshot each contribute about 37%.
• While Windlesham Cemetery does generate more income than Bagshot and Lightwater, Windlesham Parish Council is a single burial authority, which means all three cemeteries are managed collectively.
• Services are delivered equally across the parish, as required by the Local Authorities’ Cemeteries Order 1977.
Claim 3: “Windlesham Committee decisions are overturned.”
Incorrect.
• No decisions have been overturned.
• A well-cited example: a proposal to restrict burials in Windlesham Cemetery to residents only was deferred, not overturned.
• It would have created a £39,000 shortfall in the budget.
• Full Council asked the Committee to review options, as part of responsible budgeting – not to overrule.
• This was a standard, financially responsible procedure, not an override of the Committee’s authority.
• In February the following year, it was unanimously resolved that each village committee would formulate a tailored cemetery improvement plan aimed at tackling capacity constraints and enhancing aesthetic appeal.
Claim 4: “Assets are being transferred from Windlesham.”
Misleading.
• The Hook Mill Lane Depot is located in Lightwater. Giving the Lightwater Committee oversight does not change the fact that it remains a council asset.
• The Lightwater Committee is responsible for associated costs.
• Any future income (like from a sale) is proposed to benefit Lightwater residents, because Lightwater has limited ability to receive CIL (Community Infrastructure Levy) funds, unlike Bagshot and Windlesham.
• This aligns with NALC guidance on fair funding where development occurs.
Claim 5: “Windlesham councillors are outvoted by the others.”
Misleading.
• All councillors have one vote.
• Every committee includes two councillors from each village, ensuring equal representation.
• No decision can be passed solely by one village – cross-parish support is always needed.
• Decisions follow the Local Government Act 1972, in public meetings, and all votes are recorded.
For full transparency, all meeting minutes are available at www.windleshampc.gov.uk.