Onlooker Report – Ash Parish Council Ordinary Meeting 12 May 2025

/in News/by Clerk

The Parish Council convened on Monday, 12 May, with the Ordinary meeting following the Annual Parish Council meeting, during which the Chair and Vice Chair were elected. Congratulations to Cllr Ellery, our new Chair, and Cllr Tanner, our Vice Chair. We extend our sincere thanks to Cllr Tanner for his leadership since December 2024 following the resignation of Andrew Harris Rowley. We look forward to supporting Cllr Ellery as he settles into his new role.   

Appointments to Parish Council Working Groups, Committees, and representatives to external organizations—including Ash Village Hall and the Sports Pavilion Committee—were confirmed.   

Local Government & Grants   

Although no representatives from Kent County Council (KCC) or Kent Police attended this meeting, we anticipate welcoming KCC’s newly elected representative to future meetings.   

The Dover District Council (DDC) Community Grant scheme is now open for summer applications, with a deadline of 11 June. We strongly encourage community groups to apply—let’s make the most of this opportunity! In the previous funding round, Ash Bowls Club and All Sorts Music were among the successful applicants.   

Community Updates & Concerns   

Following a £10.5 million restoration, Maison Du has reopened to the public, supported by a £4.27 million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund—an exciting moment for our local heritage.   

We await updates from DDC regarding their revised Parking Strategy, which was tabled at the Cabinet meeting on 12 May. We also continue to urge DDC to take action to clean up neglected areas under their ownership in Ash, including the land near the Scout Hut and Footpath leading to Holness Road, along with disrepair issues affecting Council-owned garages.   

Concerns regarding an awkwardly parked van on Sandwich Road have been repeatedly raised with Kent Police. While legally parked, its placement is causing frustration among residents.   

Reports of nuisance motorbikes in Westmarsh, posing safety risks, have been escalated to Kent Police. We remind residents to report all nuisance vehicles or anti-social behaviour by calling 101 or using Kent Police’s online portal.   

Neighbourhood & Environmental Matters   

The Ash Neighbourhood Watch coordinator updated us on recent progress—this invaluable community support group is always welcoming new members.  Residents are encouraged to join the Neighbourhood Watch Facebook group and report concerns confidentially.   

A resident raised concerns about dead or dying trees along Hills Court Nature Path, likely impacted by Ash dieback, and was advised to report these to KCC.   

Our Community Caretaker, Duncan, shared updates on maintenance projects that are keeping the village smart and tidy. If you have suggestions for improvement, please contact: email hidden; JavaScript is required 

Exciting plans are underway for a ‘bulb bomb’ project this autumn, enhancing public spaces with vibrant spring flowers—keep an eye out for volunteer opportunities!   

Recreation Ground Update 

The Recreation Ground, a cherished village asset, remains a focal point for improvement efforts:   

  • Quotes have been received to replace the toilet doors, with work set to commence as soon as possible.   
  • Plans are progressing to repair the car park to ensure accessibility and safety.   
  • We are working with DDC to address dog fouling concerns, with improved signage and potential patrols under review. Residents are urged to report incidents directly to DDC.   

A resident consultation on proposed play area enhancements will be held on 21 June (10 AM – 12 PM) at Ash Village Hall (Library). Residents, especially children of all ages, are encouraged to attend, view the proposals, and vote on their preferred designs. Stay updated via the Ash Parish Council Facebook page, our website and community noticeboards.   

Revisions to the Pavilion lease, which is managed by Ash Rugby and Cricket clubs, are also in progress.   

The Summer Allotment and Annual Recreation Ground Inspection is scheduled for 1 July.   

Footpaths & Public Rights of Way   

With glorious spring weather drawing more people outdoors, residents are encouraged to report footpath issues via the KCC Public Rights of Way reporting portal or by emailing: email hidden; JavaScript is required  

Celebrating VE Day 80   

Heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in the Ash VE Day 80 celebrations! The day was beautifully marked by:   

  • The Proclamation read out at the War Memorial as the Union Jack flag was raised 
  • A stunning floral display by St Nicholas Church flower arrangers 
  • A striking knitted poppy display by Ash with Westmarsh WI at the War Memorial.   
  • A photography exhibition by Ash Heritage Society, complemented by delicious tea and cake at St Nicholas Church.   
  • Community singing at Pound Corner, creating a poignant tribute.   
  • The church bells ringing at 18:30, culminating in the special ‘firing of the bells’, where all bells sound simultaneously instead of in sequence.   

Plans are already underway for VJ Day 80, taking place on 15 August —stay tuned for details!