The Chair Report for April 2024 is here!
Published: 30 April 2024
Windlesham Parish Council Meeting – Tuesday 23rd April 2024
Update for the residents of Bagshot, Lightwater and Windlesham
from the Chair of Council - Councillor Alf Turner
Below is my update for residents of Bagshot, Lightwater, and Windlesham regarding our recent Parish Council meeting. Additionally, we're excited to share news about the recognition of volunteers from all three villages at this year's Parish Council Community Awards Ceremony held on Saturday, April 27th.
I hope you find this report useful and would welcome any comments either directly or through local councillors - see the links below for contact details.
1. Public Comments & Question Time
There were no members of the public present and no questions.
2. Bagshot Chapel
The meeting agreed that a contractor would be engaged to improve drainage around the chapel. This is important work which is crucial to the preservation of a heritage building and marks the initial phase of our programme to improve Parish Council assets. The works should be completed over the summer period and is estimated to cost approximately £15K.
3. Finances to March 2024 and Year End
I am pleased to report that at the end of the financial year, Parish Council finances remain in a healthy position. Our total income for the year amounted to £614K, surpassing expectations by £172K, primarily due to Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) income. It's worth noting that due to its uncertain nature in terms of amount and timing, CIL income is not budgeted for. During the year, CIL income was received for both Windlesham and Bagshot developments, bringing the CIL reserves to £70k and £309k respectively. Lightwater has received minimal CIL income, primarily due to the absence of any significant developments in the area.
Throughout the year, our expenditures totalled £578K, leaving us with a surplus of £36K. This surplus has been allocated to reserves for future expenditure.
4. Internal Audit Report and Annual Governance Statement
While administrative in nature, the internal audit serves as a pivotal review process ensuring the proper management of finances and risk within the Parish Council. I'm delighted to announce to residents that no weaknesses have been uncovered, resulting in a 'good' rating across all aspects of the review.
During the Council meeting, discussions centred on external criticisms of the Council's operations from individuals unaffiliated with the Parish Council. These criticisms were found to be inaccurate and constituted 'false news'. It was agreed that efforts would be made to communicate the positive work and standing of the Parish Council to residents through various channels.
As a result of the above the Council was able to approve the Annual Governance Statement which covers finances, controls and risk management.
The Full Council thanked the Clerk and the RFO (Responsible Finance Officer) for their excellent work in achieving a ‘good’ internal audit report and progressing the Annual Governance Statement.
6. Sale of Hook Mill Lane Depot
In line with the resolution at the February Full Council meeting a notice of intent to sell the land at Hook Mill Lane was placed in the Surrey Advertiser. Council has received a number of expressions of interest.
7. Bagshot Cemetery Wall Repair
The repair of the perimeter wall at Bagshot Cemetery is underway and should be completed over the coming weeks.
8. Greenspace Procurement
The initial market engagement process is currently underway.
10. Village War Memorials – Routine Structural Surveys
The Council is in the process of obtaining quotes to carry out routine structural surveys on all war memorials within the Parish. Additionally, the Council is seeking to refurbish the lettering on the Lightwater and Windlesham memorials. All three war memorials are Grade II listed and all works will need to be approved by SHBC planning.
11. Community Awards – Saturday 27th April
I am pleased to announce that on Saturday 27th April the Parish Council recognised the outstanding volunteer efforts of individuals within our local communities. A heartfelt congratulations to all those who truly serve as heroes, enhancing the quality of life for residents, not only in our three villages but also beyond. Stay tuned for further details and photographs, which will be shared in the coming days.
Bagshot:
· Sharron Simpkins for services to Curley Park Rangers Football Club
Lightwater:
· Paul Cronin for the Camberley Men’s Shed
· Fiona and Richard Woolley for service to the Briars Centre
Windlesham:
· Marjorie Stilwell, Anita Gibbs, and Barbara Sawford for service to the Windlesham Darby & Joan Club
· Robin Lewis – for work at the Field of Remembrance and lighting the village Christmas tree
· Fiona Burlinson – for editing the Windlesham magazine
· Sally Clark – for the historical assets register
· Moira Nairn – also for the historical assets register and research on historical memorials and restoration
Next meeting & Events
· Bagshot Village Committee – Tuesday 7th May
· Planning Committee – Tuesday 14th May
· Full Council Meeting – Tuesday 14th May
Full details of Council meetings will be on the Windlesham Parish Council Website and can be found by clicking here.
Contact details:
Bagshot Councillor contact details
Lightwater Councillor contact details
Windlesham Councillor contact details
If you would like to contact Jo Whitfield, Clerk to the Council or visit the office please use the link below to view the office opening hours and contact details:
Contact Us - Windlesham Parish Council
Alf Turner
Chair of Windlesham Parish Council
28th April 2024