Mere Town Council

Town Clerk – Mrs. L. C. Wood

Minutes of a meeting of Mere Town Council held on Monday, 2^nd March 2026 at 7.00 pm in the Andy Young Pavilion, Duchy Manor, Springfield Road, Mere, Wiltshire.  BA12 6EW. 

Note: Meeting recorded for minute-taking purposes

Present: Councillors Sandra Catley (Chair), Rachael Hansford (Vice-Chair), Aubrey Colman, Philip Coward, Rodney Coward, Sam Dean, Clive Hazzard, Raymond Hill, Glen Ings, George Jeans & John Jordan.

4 members of public.

 

Public Participation Session (15 minutes)

 

Proposed Closure of Mere Fire Station

A member of the public expressed serious concern regarding the potential closure of the fire station in Mere. The speaker highlighted the importance of local emergency response times, noting that delays of 10 minutes or more from neighbouring stations could have critical consequences for life, property, and fire spread.
The Chair noted the concerns raised and explained that the matter would be discussed tonight Agenda Item 7 (Proposed Fire Station Closures).

 

Volunteer work

Cllr. Ings asked for thanks to be minuted to Jack Coate-Hector for the work that he does in cutting back grass and sweeping up leaves on the grass area at the bottom of Castle Hill Crescent.

130. Police Report (February 2026)

The Council received a written report from Wiltshire Police covering February 2026.

The report outlined:

• Increase in reported shoplifting in Mere
• 3 incidents of antisocial behaviour
• 2 burglaries (under investigation)
• 3 reported assaults (no wider public risk identified)
• 7 thefts (including shoplifting and thefts from motor vehicles linked to burglaries)
• 2 public order offences
• 1 dangerous dog concern
• 7 road traffic incidents
• Focused patrols at Mere School & Town Centre during weeks 16^th & 23^rd Feb
• Retail crime, youth ASB, and rural crime identified as current priorities

131. Apologies for Absence

Apologies for absence were received from Cllrs Debbie Beale, Nick Beale & Steven Pester.

Decision
Apologies were accepted.

132. Declarations of Interest

• Cllr Hill declared a non-pecuniary interest in Minute Ref: 145

133. Minutes of the Previous Meeting

To approve the Minutes of the Town Council Meeting held on 2 February 2026:  An amendment was noted to record that Cllr Debbie Beale had attended and had declared an interest in relation to the Old Nursery Site.

Decision
Resolved: With this amendment, the Minutes of 2 February 2026 were approved as a correct record (proposed Cllr Hansford; seconded Cllr Colman; carried unanimously).

134. Matters Arising from the public session

Matters relating to the fire service would be considered under Agenda Item 7.

 

135. Matters Arising from previous Meetings (not covered by other agenda items)
136. a) The Old Nursery site of A303 at Burton (Minute Ref: 120) – current issues relating to fly tipping & dogs not kept under proper control

The Chair said that she had met with Sgt. Lyndsey Smith who has been investigating the dog issue which has been passed on to the dog warden for further review.  Wiltshire Council is responsible for dealing with fly tipping and they are aware of reports in the area and will take proactive action against offenders.  Therefore, any further incidents should be reported directly to Wiltshire Council.  The Clerk reinforced the importance of reporting fly tipping to Wiltshire Council and if possible, back up the report with a photograph.

 

1. b) Town of Culture Programme (Minute Ref: 100b) – report on meeting held to explore interest in making an application.

Cllr. Rachael Hansford said that a group of interested people had met to discuss this but agreed that with the fire station consultation underway at the moment there were insufficient time resources and people resources this year but would watch, with interest, how others get on this year with a view to doing it another year.

 

136. Reports & Consultations
137. a) Wiltshire Councillors Report

• The planning inspectors have rejected Wiltshire Council’s draft Local Plan after nearly a decade of work.
• Inspectors examining the plan raised significant concerns about its soundness, presenting the council with two options: withdraw the plan or continue knowing it is likely to be found unsound. Jeans confirmed that this will be a decision for the Full Council to make.
• Wiltshire Council opted to go for the maximum increase allowed by government before referendum i.e. 4.99%. This provides for a 2.99% general tax increase, plus a 2% Adult Social Care levy.
• Three weekly waste collection although they will be introducing weekly food waste collections in 2027
• There are also plans to increase charges for parking on Sundays, with a consultation set to take place soon
• PEAS (Parish Emergency Assistance Scheme) – there is going to be a consultation on whether or not this scheme will end.
• The new care Home has made a financial contribution towards pedestrian highway improvements on the Gillingham Corner and it looks as though this work will be going ahead.
• P. Coward asked about the co-ordination of planned highway resurfacing works and the utility companies that work on the highways.

 

1. b) Project Co-Ordinator’s Report – Report attached

Report noted.

 

1. c) Proposed fire station closures –

 

1. i) Report on Working Group meeting attached and DRAFT Strategy Document attached.

The Council considered documentation prepared by the Fire Station Working Group, including meeting notes and a draft engagement strategy.

Discussion
Members reviewed the strategy document aimed at responding factually and constructively to proposals to consult on closure of eight stations, including Mere.

Decision
Resolved: The Council formally endorsed the Working Group Strategy (unanimous).

 

1. ii) Funding for Consultation and Engagement

Discussion
The Council considered a request for funding to support consultation activity, publicity, printing, and public meetings.

Decision
Resolved: Approval of expenditure of up to £1,000 to support consultation and engagement activity (proposed Cllr Colman; seconded Cllr P. Coward; carried).

 

iii) MP Engagement

Discussion
The Chairman reported attending meetings at County Hall and Fire Headquarters. It was noted that attendance by elected representatives at earlier meetings had been limited. The Chairman proposed formally seeking a meeting involving the local MP and the Chief Fire Officer.

Decision
Resolved: The Chairman was authorised to seek a meeting between the MP, the Chief Fire Officer, and the Chairman.

 

1. iv) Public Meetings

Members were reminded of scheduled public meetings being convened by the Fire Authority and held in The Lecture Hall.   (Wednesday, 4^th March 6–8 pm and Thursday, 5^th March 10:30–12:30).  The Chair encouraged all councillors to attend the meetings.

Decision
Noted.

137. Planning
138. a) Applications for consultation response:

 

Application No:	PL/2026/01254
Application Type:	Notification of proposed works to trees in a conservation area
Proposal:	T1 – Eucalyptus tree – reduce by 4m and re-shape the crown
Site Address:	LITTLE SHOTLEY, ANGEL LANE, MERE, WARMINSTER, BA12 6DH
Planning Register Link:	https://development.wiltshire.gov.uk/pr/s/planning-application/a0iQ300000JnIC9

 

Decision
Resolved: To approve the proposed tree works.

 

1. b) Emergency Item – Protection for Walnut Tree in Manor Road

Discussion
A request had been received to consider seeking protection for a walnut tree at the former Southill Vets site. Members noted uncertainty regarding ownership and exact siting.

Decision
Resolved: The matter to be placed on the next agenda pending clarification of location and status.

 

10. c) National Planning Policy Framework – Government Consultation closes 10.3.26 – Further information in Clerks Report

The Council considered whether to respond to consultation proposals, including reference to guidance from Campaign to Protect Rural England.

Discussion
Members discussed implications for development control and greenfield land. It was noted that CPRE guidance had previously been effective in planning representations.

Decision
Resolved: The Council will submit a response to the NPPF consultation, drawing upon CPRE guidance (proposed Cllr Jordan, seconded Cllr Ings; carried).

 

138. Highways, Rivers, Footpaths, Traffic & Transport

 

1. a) To identify jobs for the Parish Steward and MyWiltshire reports-

Discussion
Members noted continued focus on pothole repairs. It was reiterated that potholes must be reported via the MyWiltshire App to be addressed.

 

1. b) Invitation to join Wiltshire’s Bus Enhanced Partnership – Further information in Clerks Report

Discussion

No Councillors were available to attend the Partnership meeting.

 

1. c) Questions from Senior Traffic Engineer regarding LHFIG requests submitted – Further information in Clerks Report

 

Disabled Parking Bay – Town Centre

Discussion
Following prior discussions, Members reaffirmed preference for a disabled parking bay outside The George Inn. Proposed hours: Blue Badge holders only, 3-hour limit, no return within 3 hours, Monday–Saturday 9am–6pm.

Decision
Resolved: To proceed with the location outside The George Inn and accept officer-recommended hours (proposed Cllr Jordan; seconded Cllr Ings; carried).

 

White Road / Hazards Hill Parking Restrictions

Discussion
Members expressed concern that revised proposals did not reflect earlier agreed arrangements for three parking spaces outside the three cottages on Hazzards Hill.

Decision
Resolved: To request amendment to provide three designated parking spaces as originally agreed and proceed to Traffic Regulation Order consultation (proposed Cllr Jordan; seconded Cllr Ings; carried).

 

Double Yellow Lines – Lecture Hall

Discussion
Options considered included retention, amendment, or conversion to loading bay. Concerns were raised regarding traffic flow and pedestrian safety.

Decision
Resolved: To retain double yellow lines but amend Traffic Regulation Order wording to improve enforceability and operational clarity (proposed Cllr Ings; seconded Cllr Hazzard; carried).

139. Buildings, Open Spaces, Play Areas, Sports Grounds, Car Parks, Allotments & Cemeteries

 

1. a) Utilities & Fire RA for Duchy Manor Admin Suite – update following report with Headteacher of Mere School

Discussion

The Clerk reported on a meeting with the Head of Mere School regarding utilities for the admin suite and possible installation of solar panels and the need to ensure adequate arrangements for the administrative suite. A recent Fire Risk Assessment identified the requirement for 30-minute fire doors along the corridor (excluding toilets). Costs and potential suppliers will be investigated. Members also discussed arranging fire extinguisher training for all building users.

Decision

The Clerk will obtain further information on:

• Costs and requirements for fire doors.
• Fire extinguisher training arrangements.

Resolution: Noted.

 

1. b) CCTV for Duchy Manor Admin Suite – quotation received

The Council considered a quotation from Partnership Security for CCTV installation linked to the school’s monitoring system.

Discussion
Proposal for four cameras on the main building covering the MUGA, front entrance, and rear areas.
Cost: £2,345 + VAT.
Members considered future improvements to the MUGA and safeguarding implications.  Members noted that integration with the school’s system would allow monitoring without the Council needing to manage data protection responsibilities independently.

Decision
Resolved: To approve installation of four CCTV cameras at a cost of £2,345 + VAT (proposed Cllr Hazzard; seconded Cllr Jordan; carried unanimously).

 

1. c) Thoughts on uses for old Croquet Club in Steep Street

Discussion

Members considered potential uses for the former Croquet Club site on Castle Street.

Suggestions included:

1. Relocation of youth groups (such as Cubs and Scouts)
2. A community repair shed
3. A small community facility

It was noted that the site currently lacks electricity and drainage, though an electricity pole is located nearby. A neighbouring resident has also offered a dismantled structure that could potentially be reused.

Decision

Members agreed that the Clerk should explore the feasibility and cost of providing electricity, water, foul drainage, planning permission and insurance to the site before further proposals are considered.

 

140. Finance, Policy & Resources

*a)  Payments – To review and authorise schedule of payments (attached)

Discussion

Members reviewed the schedule of payments for approval.

Decision

Payments were proposed and approved.

 

*b) To note the reconciliations for January 2026; the Chairman to sign and verify against the bank statements seen

Discussion

The Clerk reported that the January reconciliation had not yet been completed due to discrepancies that require further investigation.

Decision

Members noted the update. The Clerk will continue efforts to reconcile the accounts.

 

1. c) Interim Internal Audit Report (attached)

Discussion

Members reviewed the interim internal audit report.

Decision

The report was received and noted, and the Clerk was thanked for the work undertaken.

 

1. d) IT provision and website updates – The Clerk to provide and update on progress

Discussion

The Clerk reported that:

• New computers have been purchased.
• A new router has been received.
• Approval has been granted for a .gov.uk domain for the Council.
• The website will remain in place with updates to ensure accessibility compliance.

Decision

Members noted the progress.

141. General Items
142. a) Report on South West Wiltshire Area Board Meeting held on Wednesday, 4^th February

Discussion

Members received a report on the recent Area Board meeting.

Updates included:

• The local PCSO Stewart Hunt has been medically discharged.
• Temporary policing coverage is being provided by PCSO Alice Moore.
• Members stressed the importance of reporting crime via 101 or online so that crime statistics accurately reflect local issues.
• Dorset Council intends to charge non-residents for use of Shaftesbury recycling centre, which may affect local residents.

142. Casual Vacancy

Discussion

• Two expressions of interest have been received following the declaration of a casual vacancy.
• Co-option will take place at the April Council meeting.

143. Future meetings and events
144. a) Great British Spring Clean – Litter Pick 29^th March

Discussion

Members discussed participation in the Great British Spring Clean on 29 March.

Volunteers will be encouraged to participate.

 

15. b) LHFIG meeting, 11^th March 2026 14:00-15.50 at Nadder Centre, Weaveland Road, Tisbury SP3 6HJ

The Chair confirmed that she would be attending this meeting.

 

4. c) Community Safety Event, Friday, 13^th March in the Lecture Hall from 4.00 pm

Discussion

• The Council is organising a community safety drop-in event involving:
• Police
• Crimestoppers
• Fearless
• The Bobby Van Trust
• Fire service representatives
• The event will demonstrate how residents can report crime and access safety support.

Decision

Members encouraged attendance and agreed to promote the event.

 

1. d) Annual Town meeting – 22^nd April 2026 – Agenda items (last year’s agenda attached)

Discussion

Members discussed potential agenda items for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting, including:

• A display on the refurbishment of public toilets
• Possible representation from the fire service to answer public questions

Decision

Suggestions were noted for inclusion in planning the meeting.

144. Future agenda items

NB  Date for next Town Council meeting will be held on Monday, 13^th April due to the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

Items proposed for future meetings included:

• Digital information board outside public toilets.

 

 

145. Confidential Business

RESOLVED that pursuant to the Public Bodies (Admission to Meetings) Act 1960 and in accordance with Schedule 12A of the Local Government Act 1972, the press and public be excluded from the meeting during consideration of the following item(s) of business on the grounds that publicity would be prejudicial to the public interest by reason of the confidential nature of the business to be transacted, namely staff matters.

1. Coward proposed, G. Ings seconded

 

Staff Matters – to consider recommendations made by Staffing Panel Committee at meeting held on 17^TH February 2026 – PRIVATE & CONFIDENTIAL Minutes attached

 

RESOLVED to take forward the recommendations on proposal made by Cllr. Jordan seconded by Cllr. P. Coward

Action Schedule

Minute Ref:	Action	By whom
136c)	Implement consultation engagement plan (fire station)	Working Group
136c) iii	Seek meeting with MP and Chief Fire Officer	Chair
137b)	Clarify ownership/location of walnut tree in Manor Road and report back	Clerk
137c)	Prepare NPPF consultation response via CPRE guidance	Clerk
138c)	Progress TRO for disabled bay outside The George Inn	Clerk
138c)	Request amendment to Hazzards Hill/ White Road scheme (3 parking spaces)	Clerk
138c)	Confirm wording changes to Traffic Regulation Order for lecture hall area	Clerk
139a)	Investigate costs for installation of 30-minute fire doors at Duchy Manor	Clerk
139a)	Arrange fire extinguisher training for building users	Clerk
139b)	Commission installation of 4 CCTV cameras at Duchy Manor	Clerk
139c)	Investigate feasibility and cost of electricity, water and drainage at former Croquet Club site	Clerk/Project co-ordinator
140a)	Submit payments to suppliers	Clerk/RFO
140b)	Complete bank reconciliation investigation	Clerk/RFO
140d)	Finalise .gov.uk domain setup and IT installation	Clerk/IT contractor
143a)	Promote & co-ordinate volunteers & equipment for Great British Spring Clean	Clerk’s Assistant/Cllr. Jordan
143b)	Attend LHFIG meeting on 11th March	Chair
143c)	Promote community safety drop-in event	Council
143d)	Prepare agenda items for Annual Town Meeting	Clerk/Council

Signed: ……………………………………………. (Chair) Date: …………………………………………….