Onlooker Report – Ash Parish Council Ordinary Meeting – 2 February 2026

/in News/by Clerk

The Parish Council met twice last week: the monthly Full Council meeting and the Finance Committee meeting. Councillors reviewed the 2025/26 accounts, approved the 2026/27 budget, and recommended the 2026/27 precept. Next up is the Planning Committee meeting on Monday 16 February.

Local Government Reorganisation (LGR)

The Government is consulting on the biggest proposed change to local government in 50 years. Councils across Kent and Medway have submitted options for replacing the current two‑tier system (Kent County Council + district councils) with a smaller number of unitary authorities delivering all services in one area.

Residents, organisations and businesses are encouraged to take part in the consultation to help ministers understand the implications for local services.
Consultation link: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/local-government-reorganisation-in-kent-and-medway/proposals-for-local-government-reorganisation-in-kent-and-medway

Deadline: 11.59pm, Thursday 26 March

Village Assets

The Recreation Ground is a valued parish asset used for sport, recreation and community events.
Residents wishing to hold an event must follow the Events Policy for the Hire of Ash Recreation Ground to ensure safety, fairness and appropriate use.  This can be found on our website.

We are pleased to support Eastry Ravens Football Club, who are temporarily using the Recreation Ground while their pitch is repaired.

Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP)

Two residents asked the Council to consider reviewing the Ash Neighbourhood Development Plan, which was adopted by referendum in July 2021 and which will help shape the future of Ash for years to come.  Policies cover how new homes can meet design standards that enhance the local character of the village and the surrounding countryside. Biodiversity and climate change policies will help improve the quality of homes and life for all.  There is protection for the much loved and used green spaces in and around the village.  Policies also cover health, community facilities, parking, broadband provision, infrastructure, as well as supporting local businesses.  The Council agreed to consider an initial gap‑analysis review in late 2026 to identify updates needed as legislation and local priorities evolve.

Current Work & Achievements

Although some projects take time to reach completion, the Clerk and Councillors are progressing a significant workload, including:

  • Finalising legal and administrative work for Play Area 2 at the Recreation Ground – a major project for the parish
  • Public consultation on a 20mph speed limit within the village
  • Updated risk assessments and policies for parish assets
  • Review of the Pavilion lease

Dates for Your Diary

The Great British Spring Clean – Saturday 14 March
Ash is delighted to partner with Dover District Council.  The Great British Spring Clean is the nation’s biggest mass-action environmental campaign. Each year, more than 400,000 volunteers clear litter from our streets, parks and beaches across the UK.
Meet at Ash Village Hall, 13.00–15.00. All equipment provided; everyone welcome.

Annual Parish Meeting – 29 April, St Faith’s School @ 7.00pm
An open meeting where Ash’s charities and organisations present their annual reports and updates.   All residents are encouraged to attend and hear about the work happening across our community.

Dover District Update

District councillors continue to support Ash with issues that fall under DDC’s responsibility, including:

  • Repairing broken street lighting
  • Deep‑cleaning accumulated litter at Molland Lane car park (“the Council Yard”)
  • Addressing dilapidated garages near James Close
  • Ongoing parking concerns

They remain available to assist with any DDC‑related matters

Potholes
Ash is not alone in its frustration—67 potholes have been reported in Ware & Westmarsh alone in recent days.
Please report every pothole promptly via the Kent County Council website or by calling 01304 821199 during office hours.  KCC is responsible for roads, pavements and Public Rights of Way.  Our KCC Member is Cllr Peter Evans.

Kent Police Update

We are pleased to welcome PC Bowler back to the parish.
PC Bowler is expected to hold drop‑in sessions in Ash and residents are encouraged to sign up to MyCommunityVoice for local policing updates.  Residents are reminded to report crime and antisocial behaviour directly to Kent Police  – For non‑urgent matters contact 101 or report online.  Dial 999 for emergencies or danger to life.