Onlooker Report – Ash Parish Council – Summary of the 3 September 2026 Meeting

Onlooker – September 2026 Parish Council Meeting Update

The Parish Council reconvened in September following the summer break. Councillors are refreshed and ready for the months ahead, but the Council still has four vacancies. Every resident has skills that can benefit our community. If you can spare a couple of hours a month and would like to help shape Ash’s future, please contact the email hidden; JavaScript is required

Public Contributions

Residents raised concerns about the impact of anti‑social behaviour in the village:

• One resident reported significant disruption to family life caused by ongoing issues at the recreation ground.
• Another highlighted a rise in theft, criminal damage (including incidents at St Nicholas Church), street drinking, shoplifting and general anti‑social behaviour. While each incident may be isolated, the frequency and cumulative effect are impacting the quality of life for many residents.

The Council acknowledged that the volume of issues over the summer has been upsetting, frustrating, and has required considerable Council time and public funds. It was resolved to request a public meeting with the Kent Police Community Support Unit so residents can directly share the impact these incidents are having.

The Council emphasises that all criminal and anti‑social behaviour must be reported to Kent Police, no matter how small it may seem. Reporting builds the evidence needed for action.

Guilton Bus Shelter

The Guilton bus shelter was destroyed in a vehicle collision in August and will need to be rebuilt on a like‑for‑like basis.

Beating of the Bounds – Walking the Parish Boundary

Plans are being finalised for the traditional Beating of the Bounds walk, expected to take place on Saturday 17 October. Full details, including how to register your interest, will be shared soon. Please keep an eye on the Parish Council website and Facebook page.

Play Area 2

The new play area has been a great success, with many families enjoying the equipment throughout the summer. Snagging and vandalism issues are being addressed with the supplier. Users are reminded to treat the Recreation Ground and play equipment with respect to ensure safety and enjoyment for everyone.

Planning

Four planning applications were reviewed for Brooke House, Ship House and land east of Guston Elms.

Dover District Council Report

Unitary Authority Kent is being reorganised into four areas under the new Unitary Authority: East Kent, West Kent, Mid Kent and North Kent. East Kent will comprise Canterbury, Dover and Thanet. The new ward for local residents will be Little Stour and Sandwich, covering the current Little Stour and Ashstone ward, plus Eastry, Woodnesborough, Sandwich and Worth. The ward will have three councillors.

The Bench – Dover Beacon Project A grand opening event will take place on Tuesday 8 September, marking the completion of DDC’s Round 2 Levelling Up Fund award.

Kearsney Abbey A new £155k facility has opened, featuring a large multi‑play unit with slides, tunnels, climbing walls, net seating and a fireman’s pole.

The Council noted the removal of two dilapidated garages behind School Road and requested an update on plans for the remaining garages and surrounding land.

Kent Police

PC Bowler’s August report has been published on the Parish Council Facebook page.

Community Drop‑In Session St Nicholas Church Thursday 24 September 11.00–13.00

Kent County Council

Apologies were received from Cllr Evans.

Next Meeting

The next Full Parish Council meeting will take place on Thursday 1 October.