Ashington Parish Council Capers – A Rollicking Rundown of Rural Ruminations

Ashington Youth Club’s Fiscal Feat: More Bang for Fewer Bucks!

In the charming village of Ashington, where excitement usually peaks at the sight of a new bird at the bird feeder, we witnessed a thrilling development at the Parish Council Meeting on Thursday, 2nd November. The Ashington Youth Club (AYC), a beacon of youthful energy in our otherwise serene village, presented a daring proposal for Year 3 funding. Hold onto your hats, folks!

Steve May, of the Ashington Youth Club (AYC), requested a modest £8,500, a cutback of about 7.5% from the previous year. Blame it on inflation or the misfortune of losing £150 a month when RH20 Gym switched buildings, but the Youth Club isn’t throwing in the towel just yet. Instead, they’re offering a smorgasbord of activities: three youth sessions a week, festive parties, and even junior gym sessions. Talk about commitment!

The twist in the tale? The Club’s attendees now include youths from nearby villages whose own clubs have shut down. Our very own superhero youth worker, Helen Lee, highlighted that these kids, who all attend school together, naturally want to hang out at the same club. How’s that for community spirit?

Speedwatch Saga: Ashington’s Own Need for Speed

The thrilling Speedwatch update revealed a jaw-dropping 14% of drivers on Billingshurst Road have been moonlighting as stunt drivers, blatantly snubbing the 40 mph signs. With potholes patched up, these speedsters have upped their game, some even daring to hit 60 mph. The council, in a valiant effort to combat these wannabe racers, has issued a Bat-Signal (newsletter advertisement) for volunteers. Will you answer the call?

Defibrillators and Daisies: Heartbeats and Blooms

In an unexpected twist, Councillor Wallace emerges as the guardian of heartbeats, confirming the parish clerk’s email as the go-to for defibrillator emergencies. Meanwhile, Councillor Morris, in a stroke of botanical brilliance, suggested bedecking the front of the school with wildflowers. Imagine, a riot of colours where children can frolic and bees can buzz – Ashington’s answer to the Chelsea Flower Show!

Planning Plots and Puddles: Ashington’s Own Soap Opera

The Rampion 2 Offshore Wind Farm debate thickens with the council wrangling over the proposed cable route. The plot? Increased traffic, village cut-throughs, and additional HGV movements. In another scene, Ashington grapples with its own Waterworld saga, as Councillor Stillwell heroically points out recent floods under the A24 bridges. Not to worry, it’s not a pump problem.

Neighbourhood Plan Narratives: A Tale of Two Sites

Enter the Chanctonbury Nurseries site, now under the aegis of Elivia Homes. The council, in a burst of creativity, ponders over whimsical road names. Meanwhile, at the land west of Ashington School, a standoff ensues. The council, firm in its resolve for transparency, insists on public discussions with developers. It’s high noon, but with planning applications instead of pistols.

The Council Conundrum: Social Soirees and Festival Flair

Councillor Morris, ever the social butterfly, proposed a meet-and-greet event for residents to hobnob with their councillors. Though the “annual parish meeting” remains on its usual date, there’s chatter about showcasing council charm at the Ashington Festival. Can you imagine our councillors, possibly in top hats, winning hearts and minds over tea and scones?

In Conclusion: Ashington’s Own Drama Series

So there you have it, folks – from fiscal frugality and speeding sagas to heart-saving heroes and blooming beauties. Ashington Parish Council isn’t just about budgets and bylaws; it’s a vibrant village saga, full of character, charm, and a dash of cheekiness. Stay tuned for the next episode – same Ashington time, same Ashington channel!

The full minutes of the November meeting can be read here > https://www.ashingtonpc.org.uk/pdf/nov_2nd_2023_minutes_pc_meeting-46-pdffile.pdf