Mere Town Council

Town Clerk – Mrs. L. C. Wood

Minutes of a meeting of Mere Town Council held on Monday, 13^th April 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 Rachael Hansford (Vice-Chair), Aubrey Colman, Philip Coward, Rodney Coward, Sam Dean, Clive Hazzard, Raymond Hill, George Jeans & John Jordan.

8 members of public.

In the absence of Cllr. Sandra Catley, the Vice-Chair, Cllr. Rachael Hansford in the Chair.

 

Public Participation Session (15 minutes)

Water supply for allotments at Jack Paul Close:

Residents/allotment holders objected to removal of a standpipe/tap and replacement with a water tank. They argued: (i) tenants are willing to pay the full water cost; (ii) water butts are unreliable in dry summers; (iii) a tap supports inclusivity (older/less able users) and usability (tank requires lifting from above); (iv) lack of prior notification/consultation was a significant concern. They requested the tap be reinstated quickly due to the planting season. Additional speakers reinforced concerns about no notification, questioned how the tap removal had been agreed previously without consulting plot holders.

Planning application for Elmsleigh, Pettridge Lane

Applicant/representative outlined revised plans designed by an architect, with attention to neighbour impact and guidance from councils. They referenced historic land given for safer pedestrian access and proposed adjusting driveway/access in consultation with highways, stating highways had no objection.

Carnival update:

Organisers reported progress, including replacement of a resigning treasurer, bank account signatories updated, and a £2,000 donation from Castle Grove. A bingo fundraiser was planned, with a committee meeting scheduled and new volunteers expected.

146. Apologies for Absence

Apologies received from Debbie Beale, Nick Beale, Sandra Catley and Glen Ings.

Decision: Apologies were accepted.

147. Declarations of Interest

• Clive Hazzard & George Jeans declared a pecuniary interest in Minute No. 156a) Finance, Payments
• George Jeans declared a personal interest in Minute No. 155b) LEVI (chargers in Salisbury Street Car Park.
• Rachael Hansford declared a personal interest in the planning application PL/2026/01352 for Elmsleigh
• Hill declared a pecuniary interest in the planning application PL/2026/01352 for Elmsleigh
• Jordan declared a pecuniary interest in Minute No. 150

 

148. Minutes of the Previous Meeting

RESOLVED: That the minutes of the meeting held on 2nd March 2026 be approved and signed as a correct record of proceedings.

 

 

149. Co-Option to fill Casual Vacancy (personal statements attached) & for new councillor (if present) to sign Declaration of Acceptance of Office.

Two applicants were considered: Steve Porter and Linden Stone.  Steve Porter was present at the meeting and introduced himself but members had received a personal statement from each candidate prior to the meeting.  With no other nominations having been received members voted by secret ballot in accordance with the Town Council’s standing orders.

RESOLVED to appoint Steve Porter following a majority vote.

NB  Steve Porter had to leave the meeting but said he would complete his Declaration of Acceptance of Office before the next meeting.

 

150. Allotment water supply at Jack Paul Close – please see report attached. [Agenda item 10a) brought forward]

 

Concerns raised: Potential cost implications and environmental considerations, plus fairness/precedent for other allotment sites if one site is allowed a different arrangement.

Benefits argued: Improved accessibility—reduces the need to carry heavy water (important for older plot holders or those with back problems).

How costs could be handled: Use the existing meter readings and divide charges among allotment holders, provided they agree to pay. Responsibility for deciding/overseeing payment arrangements delegated to  Chair, Vice-Chair and Clerk.

Additional note: A separate issue was mentioned about an unauthorised replacement/repair of a case/structure; members noted it had not been approved in advance, though it was not treated as a major issue.

Behavioural impact: Charging for water might encourage less-active plot holders to work their plots more or consider giving them up to someone who will use them.

 

RESOLVED to reinstate the standpipe as soon as possible.

151. Matters Arising from previous Meetings (not covered by other agenda items)

 

1. a) Report on meeting held between Town Council representatives and National Highways representatives regarding drainage works for A303: Rodney Coward confirmed that he and the Chair had met with representatives from National Highways:

Current problems identified: A roadside ditch has not been cleaned for a long time and is now blocked; a large pipe/culvert under the road is silted/blocked, preventing proper drainage and causing water to run onto the carriageway.

North-side complication: Runoff is directed into a soakaway that does not soak away; it fills quickly (around 10 minutes) and backs water up onto the road.

Historic/local knowledge: A previously existing garden/drainage arrangement appears to have been altered/removed; a 6-inch drain pipe under the road was discovered and is believed to have been an older drain serving that area.

Proposed solution: National Highways agreed a likely need for an additional/updated culvert under the road on the north side (near the pub/bike house) to improve drainage.

Timing and priority: Work was described as hoped to be completed within the next 12 months and treated as a priority, reportedly influenced by recent fatalities at the location.

Immediate actions observed: Contractors were already on site clearing the ditch, with expectation of further clearance/excavation to restore capacity.

 

152. Reports & Consultations

 

1. a) Wiltshire Councillors Report

Key points raised

Fire and Rescue consultation: The proposed closure of the local fire station is highlighted as the most pressing issue; Cllr. Jeans encouraged residents to engage with the consultation because local response capacity could be affected.

Roads/highways priorities: Roads are described as a major recurring concern (though currently secondary to fire services). Discussion references work proposals and how funding/repair priorities may be applied to key junctions/crossroads and less-used roads.

Road mapping update: A Southwest Roads/transport-related map/report is expected to be available electronically before late June, with communication to follow so people can review impacts in their area.

Community/local support: The SWW Area Board has set up a Dementia Friendly Group with Castle Lodge Care Home providing strong backing.

Energy/solar PV: A brief note references SSEN and PV panels, with a suggestion that the council consider making an effort to install solar panels (a figure around 10% is mentioned, though the context is unclear).

 

 

*b) Project Co-Ordinator’s Report (attached)

The Council’s Project Co-ordinator, Roger Pipe, was at the meeting and explained the consultation and scoping work progress on refurbishment proposals for the play area in the Recreation Ground and the MUGA. The scope of what can be delivered is primarily determined by budget: the committee previously committed all Section 106 funds, about £100,000 for each project.  To understand what is achievable within budget, Roger asked four companies (two for the MUGA, two for the recreation ground/playground) to propose ideas and options on a pro bono basis. At this meeting, only a playground option was available to view (displayed on the window), showing a central proposal with side options for equipment. Members are invited to review the displayed proposal and leave comments (via post-its) or contact Roger with feedback.

Procurement approach: while it was previously assumed the project would need to go on Contract Finder (national tender), advice indicates this is not required; procurement rules can be followed by seeking tenders from selected companies instead.

Roger expects to return at the next/main meeting with a consultation summary, options available, and recommendations on procurement.

 

Questions & Feedback Raised

Engagement with young people/parents: A member asked whether the plans would be taken to schools, youth clubs, and young mums’ groups to get opinions (noting councillors may not be the best proxy for children’s preferences). Roger said he had spoken individually with groups such as childminders and toddler groups and planned to take it to the town meeting the following week.

Staying within budget: Clarification was sought on whether selecting between options would affect cost. Roger confirmed the playground proposal options would still be within budget, and the MUGA companies have also been asked to design within budget.

Sports club input: A question was raised about contacting football/sporting organisations. Roger said he emailed the football club but received no response despite trying a couple of times.

Learning from past installations: A member suggested reviewing how popular and well-used previous playground equipment has been (e.g., Walnut Tree and Castle Hill Lane) to inform choices; an example was given of a wooden structure that proved very popular.

 

1. c) Proposed fire station closures:

• Report on public meetings, meeting with MP and meeting with Union reps.
• Report on working group meeting and future community engagement

Recent Developments

Official Support: The Town Council formally endorsed the working group strategy last month and approved funding of up to £1,000 to help with public consultation and engagement.

MP Involvement: Dr Andrew Murrison raised the issue during Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs) on 11 March.

Government Action: The Prime Minister committed to an urgent ministerial meeting to discuss a rescue plan for the 8 at-risk stations.

New Stakeholders: National Highways and the National Trust are now engaged, ensuring the impact on major infrastructure (like the A303) and heritage sites is considered.

Key Meetings & Logistics

Fact-Finding: Council Chair Sandra Catley, Cllr Philip Coward, and the Chief Fire Officer met to pinpoint the exact funding gap needed to prevent closure.

Public Voice: Two public meetings were held on 4 and 5 March to gather community feedback.

Local Unity: Communication is active between Mere and neighbouring parish councils to create a united front.

 

Way forward:  Encourage everyone to complete the questionnaire.  Use the funding to print and deliver flyer to all households in Mere with QR code to questionnaire – Delegate to Chair, Vice-Chair and Cllr. Jeans to organise this..

 

 

1. d) Report on Great British Spring Clean – Litter Pick event held 29^th March

Cllr Jordan reported that a small group undertook the litter-pick in cold and windy conditions. Thanks were recorded to Sonya (office) for publicity and organising the event to Cllr. Jordan for co-ordinating the event and to Ideverde for providing equipment. Members noted concerns about an additional litter-pick group being scheduled by Wiltshire Council shortly beforehand, causing duplication.

 

1. e) Report on Community Safety Event held on Friday, 13 March – deferred due to absence of Cllr. Catley

 

1. f) Report on visit to Warminster CCTV control room – deferred due to absence of Cllr. Catley

 

*g) Planning Committee Reforms: statutory consultation on draft regulations and guidance (see information in Clerks Report)

Members discussed the consultation document circulated in advance. Concerns were raised that proposals could reduce local democratic oversight by increasing delegation to officers and limiting local planning committee involvement. A contrary view was expressed that strategic determination could reduce delays for larger developments.

Resolved: To submit a Town Council response to the consultation supporting the retention of local planning committees (alongside any strategic planning arrangements).

 

153. Planning
154. a) Applications for consultation response:

Cllr. John Jordan in The Chair

Application No:	PL/2026/01352
Application Type:	Full planning permission
Proposal:	Demolish outbuildings and lean-to, form new vehicular access and erect two storey dwelling
Site Address:	Elmsleigh, Pettridge Lane, Mere, Warminster, BA12 6DG
Planning Register Link:	https://development.wiltshire.gov.uk/pr/s/planning-application/a0iQ300000JsQKL

The Council considered the application and noted the Council’s previous objection to a similar proposal, including concerns about highway safety (additional vehicular crossings over a narrow footway) and overlooking/loss of residential amenity. Members noted that aspects of the design appeared amended and that highways comments were similar to the previous submission.

RESOLVED: To support/raise no objection to the application.  Cllr. Hill, having declared a pecuniary interest, left the building whilst this application was considered.  Cllr. Rachael Hansford, having declared a personal interest in the above application, refrained from discussion and voting on this application. [In order not to compromise his position as Wiltshire Councillor, Cllr. Jeans abstained from voting on this matter.]

 

Application No:	PL/2026/01587
Application Type:	Notification of proposed works to trees in a conservation area
Proposal:	T1 – Beech tree – reduce branches overhanging roof to give a clearnace of 1m-2m T2 – Variegated Holly tree – reduce height to 2m T3 – Liquid Amber tree – reduce over extended limbs by 1m T4 – Sumac tree – remove lower limb T5 – Cedar tree (dead) – fell T6 – Mulberrry tree – reduce crown by 1m-2m to rebalance T7 – Cut Leaf Beech tree – reduce branches overhanging roof to give clearance of 1m-2m T8 – Horse Chestnut tree – reduce branches growing into Cut Leaf Beech tree by 2m T9 – Unspecified tree – fell T10 – Judas tree – remove deadwood and damaged branches
Site Address:	THE OLD RECTORY, CHURCH STREET, MERE, WARMINSTER, BA12 6DS
Planning Register Link:	https://development.wiltshire.gov.uk/pr/s/planning-application/a0iQ300000K5NID

Members considered the proposed tree works (including removal of one dead tree and crown reductions/limb removals). No objections were raised.

RESOLVED: To support the application.

 

Application No:	PL/2026/01781
Application Type:	Full planning permission
Proposal:	Convert barn to single dwelling and workshop.
Site Address:	Land at Burton, Mere, Warminster, Wiltshire BA12 6BR
Planning Register Link:	https://development.wiltshire.gov.uk/pr/s/planning-application/a0iQ300000KIUKH

 

Members noted the existing Class Q approval for conversion to three dwellings and discussed the merits of a single dwelling with a workshop, including the practicality of enforcing any planning conditions. Members considered that one dwelling plus workshop could be preferable to three dwellings in terms of activity and associated impacts.

RESOLVED: To support the proposal subject to conditions/restrictions including (as discussed): workshop use restricted to repair/restoration of classic cars by the occupier; maximum six vehicles stored/worked on at any time; no external storage of vehicles/parts (other than operator’s private vehicles and customers’ drop-off/collection); workshop insulation to limit noise; no paint spraying; foul/surface water drainage details to be agreed; access road improvements as per Class Q approval.   [In order not to compromise his position as Wiltshire Councillor, Cllr. Jeans abstained from voting on this matter.]

 

*b) New streets and numbering application for Beaumont Business Park, Mere.  (Please see Clerks Report and Form A attached)

Members agreed to submit four suggested street names with a consistent theme relating to the site history:

Beaumont Road, Gallery Avenue, Chimney Road & Metalworkers Way.  Beaumont Road and Gallery Avenue being preferred choices for the 2 new streets.  Members also stressed the importance of any housing facing Woodlands Road should be named/addressed as Woodlands Road as the previous development on the old Hill Brush Factory site has named the houses on Woodlands Road something else and this has caused considerable confusion for delivery drivers etc.

 

1. c) Notice of TPO for Walnut Tree in Manor Road

Members noted that the Tree Preservation Order process had been initiated and that notice had been served; no further action was required by the Council at this stage.

 

154. Highways, Rivers, Footpaths, Traffic & Transport

 

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

Members identified potential tasks, including scraping back encroaching grass along the tarmac path at The Meads to widen the path for pedestrians.

A loose utility cover was reported outside Hathways on Water Street; it was noted this should be reported via MyWiltshire and/or to the Parish Steward when next available.

Members discussed adding a clear link from the Town Council website to the MyWiltshire reporting page to encourage residents to report issues directly.

 

b)Report on LHFIG meeting held on 11^th March 2026 – deferred due to the absence of Cllr. Sandra Catley.

 

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

*b) Report on LEVI [Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure] project meeting (Notes on Community Engagement meeting held on 3.3.26 and copy of Wiltshire Council’s presentation attached).

The Council received an update on discussions regarding EV charging provision. Members noted that preparatory work already completed (including agreement in principle relating to the parking space adjacent to the public toilets) placed the Council in a strong position. It was reported that a nearby substation is located behind the public toilets.

Members noted the scheme had gone out to tender (timing not confirmed) and that a further update is awaited. It was reported that the Council would not need to fund the installation (details to be confirmed).

 

1. c) Would the Town Council approve the Carnival funfair on the same basis as last year as a limited presence in Salisbury Street Car Park for the Saturday 19^th September (with Friday, 18^th September to set up)?

Proposal: To approve a small funfair in Salisbury Street car park on the same basis as agreed the previous year, with set-up on Friday 18th and operation on Saturday 19th September.

Conditions discussed: Liaison with the local doctors’ surgery to ensure there are no clashes with clinical units/events; confirmation of suitable surface protection/indemnity arrangements for car park surfacing vs heavy equipment (e.g., use of plates/mats) given the car park condition.

Resolved: Approved, subject to the above conditions and the submitted plan.

 

 

1. d) Digital Information Board outside public toilets.

The Council discussed installing a vandal-resistant, weatherproof digital information screen outside the public toilets to replace outdated static maps and provide community information (including for businesses, community groups, and Council information). A screen size in the range 32–40 inches was discussed, with content updates possible via USB and/or remotely (depending on specification/cost).

Resolved: To investigate further and obtain firm quotations and examples for consideration.

 

 

1. e) Public Toilets – Grant award for accessible flooring improvements in the disabled toilets.

The Council noted that a grant of £3,000 had been awarded by the Mere Lecture Hall Trust to replace the disabled toilet flooring. Quotations are being refreshed/confirmed. It was noted there is a possibility the toilet pan may need replacing if damaged during works, which could require a small additional budget approval.  Cllr. Rachael Hansford was thanked for applying for the grant.

Action: Bring final quotations and any additional funding request back to Council for decision.

 

156. Finance, Policy & Resources

 

*a) Payments –  The Council reviewed and authorised scheduled payments.  Having declared a pecuniary interest in this item, Cllr. Jeans & Cllr. Hazzards left the building whilst this matter was discussed.

 

 

1. b) To note the reconciliations for January & February 2026; The Clerk confirmed that the Chair had signed and verified these bank reconciliations against the bank statements.

 

*c) SSEN Communities Fund (see guidance for funding applications attached) [NB I have signed up to webinar 21.4.26]

 

The Council noted a forthcoming webinar relating to the SSEN funding stream. It was reported that the purpose was to investigate costs and options for solar panels on a building with a flat roof (location referenced but not fully clear in transcript). Members noted that a prior written grant application exists and may be reused/adapted. Battery storage options were also mentioned for consideration.

Action: Attend the webinar and report back with costs/options and eligibility information.

 

1. d) IT provision & website updates

The Council received a written/verbal update that the broadband router had been upgraded; three new PCs with monitors/keyboards had been installed and set up with Microsoft 365 Business Premium; and a new domain had been registered and set up: meretowncouncil.gov.uk. Members noted the new machines had been set up at the end of the previous week and data transfer would follow, with the website work to be undertaken as a second phase.

 

 

157. General Items

*a) Are you interested in hosting StarFest 2027? (see Clerks Report)

The Council discussed whether to express interest in hosting StarFest 2027. Members noted the value as a community and PR opportunity, with potential involvement from the local school.

Resolved: To contact the school to explore participation and suitability, and to progress an expression of interest as appropriate.

 

1. b) Gigabit Voucher Scheme – Cllr. Jeans

The Council received an update on local fibre broadband provision and the gigabit voucher scheme. Members discussed apparent constraints where a commercial provider has already indicated provision, which may prevent voucher use. Various avenues were proposed to identify the relevant commercial provider and to escalate enquiries (including approaches via Wiltshire Council, Openreach/BT contacts, Wessex, and the local MP).

Actions: (1) Seek clarification from the relevant government scheme contact (“BDUK” referenced) on the named commercial provider; (2) Cllr. Philip Coward to liaise with Wessex Internet regarding what they know and potential next steps; (3) Consider writing to the local MP to request support/escalation; (4) Explore whether Openreach/BT can confirm the intended provider for the area.

 

1. c) Briefing Notes:

Briefing Note 26-02 Revamp Your Tank

Members discussed a briefing note about septic tank upgrade grants to improve river water quality (River Avon catchment referenced). The Council understood the role for councillors is to raise awareness to residents (details to be confirmed).

 

Briefing Note 26-03 Service Devolution & Asset Transfer Policy – revision

Members discussed policy changes and the implications of service transfers without building asset transfer (public toilets referenced). The consultation deadline had been extended to 1 May. Members agreed it would be beneficial to respond, noting Council investment into the public toilets and requesting a review of the approach to transferring building assets.

 

158. Future meetings and events
159. a) Annual Town Meeting – Wednesday, 22^nd April 2026 – members were asked to help publicise the meeting using printed agendas/posters.

 

*b) Cranborne Chase National Landscape – Annual Planning & Landscape Forum 2026 to be held on 1^st June 2026 9.30 – 16.00 at New Remembrance Hall, Charlton SP7 0PL (tickets £48); Whilst no members wanted to attend this event, Cllr. Jordan volunteered to act as a local parish contact/representative and seek benefits/support for the town, while aiming to avoid unnecessary attendance at large meetings.

 

*c) WALC/Wiltshire Council & Police & Crime Commissioner collaboration Road Safety Seminar at County Hall, Trowbridge on Friday, May 15^th between 13.30 and 16.00 – no members able to attend.

 

159. Future agenda items

Requests were made for updates on: (a) Fives Court and the status of a revised planning application; and (b) The Old Nursery Field at Burton and anticipated planning application with associated highways impact assessment work. It was reported there is no legal time limit for submitting the application; a further multi-agency meeting may be planned.

Note:  Members are reminded that the Town Council has a general duty to consider the following matters in the exercise of any of its functions: Equal Opportunities (race, gender, sexual orientation, marital status and any disability), Crime and Disorder, Health and Safety and Human Rights.

*Further information on these items enclosed/attached

The Chair closed the meeting at 9.05 pm

Action Schedule

Minute Ref:	Action	By whom
150	Reinstate standpipe to Jack Paul Close allotment site	Clerk
150	Agree method for payment arrangements for water	Chair, Vice-Chair & Clerk
152c)	Re:  Fire Station Review – print and arrange delivery of flyers to all households in Mere with QR code to consultation questionnaire	Chair, Vice-Chair & Cllr. Jeans
152g)	Planning Committee Reforms: Submit Town Council response supporting retention of local planning committees	Clerk
153a)	Planning Applications:  Submit consultation responses on Planning Register	Clerk
153b)	New Streets & Numbering for Beaumont Business Park – submit suggested street names	Clerk
154	Submit jobs to Parish Steward.  Add link on TC website to the MyWiltshire reporting page	Clerk
155c)	Carnival Funfair – liaise with doctors surgery , obtain confirmation of suitable surface protection/indemnity	Clerk
155d)	Digital Information Board – Investigate examples and obtain quotations	Vice-Chair
155e)	Public toilets – flooring improvements.  Refresh & confirm quotations and initiate works.	Vice-Chair, Project co-ordinator & Clerk
156a)	Submit payments to suppliers	Clerk/RFO
156c)	SSEN Communities Fund – investigate costs of solar panels on Duchy Manor building, attend seminar and report back	Clerk/RFO
157a)	StarFest 2027 – contact school and express interest.	Vice-Chair
157b)	Gigabit Voucher Scheme – seek clarification on named commercial provider, liaise with Wessex Internet, write to local MP, seek info from BT Openreach.	Cllr. Jeans, Cllr. P. Coward & Clerk
157c)	Briefing Note 26-03 – respond	Clerk

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

 

 

 

 

 

MERE PEACE MEMORIAL SPORTS AND RECREATION GROUND

Registered Charity No. 1093497

 

For Trustees to consider the following:

 

Lease of Mere Youth Building to Seeds4Success

Final documentation received

Following closure of the Council meeting, the Chair opened the Trustees meeting for the Mere Peace Memorial Sports and Recreation Ground.

• The Council noted that the lease is finalised and ready for signature by the Chair and Vice-Chair.
• Resolved: That the Chair and Vice-Chair are authorised to sign the lease.