Parish Council meeting minutes – 20th May 2025

BRAMLEY PARISH COUNCIL

Minutes of the Meeting of the Council

Date:	Tuesday 20^th May 2025	Time: 7.30pm
Place:	Bramley Room, Bramley Village Hall
Present:	Cllr Tony Durrant (Chair)	Cllr Sue Howell
	Cllr Chris Flooks	Cllr Jan Wright
	Cllr Malcolm Bell	Cllr Keith Oborn
	Cllr Alan Munday	Cllr Chris Tomblin
In attendance:	Maxta Thomas (Clerk)	3 members of the public
	Cllr Rhydian Vaughan (HCC)
Apologies:	Cllr Iain James

		*Action*
1	Apologies for Absence
	As listed above.
2	Declarations of Interest
	Cllr Durrant declared an interest in planning matters due to his position on the BDBC Development Control Committee. He took no part in any planning decisions. Cllr Howell declared an interest in the two grant applications and took no part in the vote for those items (item 12).
3	Minutes of the Last Parish Council Meeting
3.1	The minutes of the meeting held on 8^th April 2025 were proposed by Cllr Tomblin and seconded by Cllr Bell and unanimously agreed as being a true record of the meeting. The Chairman duly signed the minutes of the meeting.
3.2	Matters arising
	None.
3.3	Outstanding actions
	· Flagpole – the Village Hall Trustees are interested in potentially managing a flagpole, with reservations. · A VE80 flag was displayed at a private residence close to Clift Meadow, at the request of Bramley PC. The Parish Council paid for the flag. · Cllr Bell noted recent battery farm noise. Cllr Tomblin stated that Borough officers have noted the issue, but the noise reported has not been repeated. They will continue to monitor.
4	Open Forum
	· None.
5.	County Councillor Report – see appendix A. · A340 has roadworks on it at the moment, which is causing rush hour delays. · Cllr Oborn raised issues with different fibre companies not coordinating.
6.	Borough Councillor Report – see appendix A. · Cllr Durrant is the new Chair of the BDBC Development Control Committee. · A motion has been passed giving rights to rivers. This is in line with the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Trust, and is a national initiative.
7.	Parish Environment
7.1	Parish Green project update – the path work is complete. The cleared areas have been dug over and seeded with grass seed, some of which has taken well. The broken fence panels will be replaced or mended tomorrow. Disabled access is being completed today. The next phase is a third area being tidied up. The wilded area will not be dealt with as yet. Cllr Durrant and the Clerk are still working on ownership issues with the track between the Green and The Smithy.
7.2	Biodiversity Action Plan – Wilder Bramley has submitted a plan for councillors consideration. · Planning applications – members need to see a planning checklist before this is agreed, but Cllr Tomblin stated the Planning Committee should be doing this. He noted that the Planning Committee is already beginning to consider biodiversity issues in planning decisions. · Neighbourhood Plan – environment and biodiversity will be considered when developing the update to the NDP. · Parish to manage land using environmentally friendly practices – this is something the PC already works towards and will continue to do so. Bramley PC would need to talk with CMT. ‘Where we can we will’. · Maintain schedule for Bramley Green – this is currently the PC aim. Bramley Green management will be reviewed in September 2025. · Working with BDBC and HCC – members were unsure how much influence Bramley PC is likely to have in this instance. Cllr Tomblin noted that Bramley PC can lobby and bring local knowledge into play on this. It more likely that PC will support Wilder Bramley and other groups to do this. · Investigate resources for target biodiversity assessments – Bramley PC is happy to support surveys on PC managed land. Bramley Greens also needs permission from the Stratfield Saye Estate. · Bramley PC to liaise with Stratfield Saye Estate for Bramley Green – PC liaises with Stratfield Saye on a regular basis. · Apply for planning permission for signs for Wilder walks – Bramley PC does not wish to be directly involved in planning applications, but will support other groups should they decide to apply. · Allotments use of pesticides – most holders do not use pesticides. However, this will be included in new T&Cs and policies.
8	Clerk’s report & Administration
8.1	Parish magazine article – Cllr Bell will write the article for the July 2025 issue of the Parish magazine. Copy is due by 15^th June 2025.
8.2	Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) policy – the Clerk has circulated a draft policy for consideration. Cllr Oborn proposed adopted the policy as written, Cllr Wright seconded, unanimously agreed. Clerk to finalise and place on website.	*Clerk*
8.3	Annual Audit 2024-25
	i. Internal Audit review – the internal auditor was very happy with how Bramley Parish Council is being run, and as such has given a £300 discount on her fee for ‘exemplary records’. The Clerk noted that the dates for public rights period will be from 3^rd June 2025 until 14^th July 2025. The following points were raised by the internal auditor: o Accounting basis – the internal auditor noted that both income and expenditure have exceeded £200k for the year, and that this is likely to continue. She recommended switching the accounting from Receipts and Payments to Income and Expenditure. Clerk to take forward. o Minutes – the internal auditor recommended that these should be kept as brief as possible. However, the Clerk maintains that some background to the decision making process needs to be included. This was supported by members. o Contract valuation – the internal auditor noted that the land purchase price was not formally minuted, and that care should be taken that this does not happen again. The Clerk noted that although the purchase price was not minuted at the time due to commercial sensitivity, the price was later minuted as part of payments to be approve. o Fidelity insurance – this is currently at £150k. However, due to the increase in income and expenditure, this should be increased when the insurance policy is reviewed. Cllr Durrant suggested an initial raise to £500k. Clerk to take forward. o It was noted that the Bramley PC general reserve is quite low, and that care should be taken to ensure a resilient level of general reserve. This will be reviewed as part of the budget and precept setting process. o The Clerk’s pension is not calculated on a net pay basis. The payroll bureau should be asked to check this. There would be no cost to the council, but benefit to the Clerk. Clerk to take forward. o Clift Meadow accounts – the PCs status as Custodian Trustee of Clift Meadow was noted, and that the CMT accounts are not produced in accordance with the Charity Commission requirements. She recommended that CMT should be encourages to improve its reporting. Clerk and Cllr Flooks to take forward.	*Clerk* *Clerk* *Clerk* *Clerk* *Clerk / Cllr Flooks*
	ii. 2024-25 Annual Governance Statement – this has been distributed to all councillors for review. Cllr Tomblin proposed that the Annual Governance Statement be approved and signed, Cllr Bell seconded, unanimously agreed. The Governance Statement for 2024-25 was duly signed. Clerk to take forward.	*Clerk*
	iii. 2024-25 Annual Financial Statement – this has been distributed to all councillors for review. Cllr Howell proposed that the Annual Accounting Statement be approved and signed, Cllr Bell seconded, unanimously agreed. The Accounting Statement for 2024-25 was duly signed. Clerk to take forward.	*Clerk*
	iv. 2024-25 Conflict of Interest statement – the Clerk noted that all Councillors need to confirm that they have no conflicts of interest with the external auditor, BDO. All Councillors duly confirmed that this was the case, and the Conflict of Interest statement was signed by the Chair and Clerk. Clerk to take forward.	*Clerk*

9.	Reports
9.1	Planning Committee – Cllr Flooks gave an update on the recent Planning Committee meeting (see appendix B). Cllr Bell proposed and Cllr Oborn seconded that the Committee recommendations be accepted. This was unanimously agreed. · 25/00815/PIP -Beech Farm Lane End Bramley Application for Permission in Principle for residential development of a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 9 dwellings o A minor change in location plan does not make a material difference to Bramley PCs objection. Concerns still remain about the access to the site. Clerk to take forward.	*Clerk*
9.2	Allotments and Burial Ground i. Update on allotments – see appendix A. ii. Water trough at St James Park allotments – Cllr Howell stated that some tenants at St James Park have requested a third water trough, as some are having difficulty in moving heavy watering cans or buckets. A quote for installing another water trough has been received, for £1375+VAT. It was noted that water should be shut off in the winter months to prevent freezing. Cllr Tomblin proposed installing the trough, Cllr Oborn seconded, unanimously agreed. Funding – Cllr Durrant proposed that the Clerk should look for funding outside of the precept. This was unanimously agreed. iii. Accessible raised beds – Cllr Howell noted that Bramley PC currently has very little in place for community members who which to have some allotment space but are unable to cope with a full size plot. She noted the large raised beds at Sherfield, which have enabled less able people to have some gardening space. If Bramley were to consider these, then the St James Park allotments would be the better site. An Equality & Diversity policy for the allotments needs to be drawn up. It was agreed that the issue needs to be explored further, in tandem with drawing the above-mentioned policy. Cllr Howell and Clerk to take forward. Agenda for July. Cllr Tomblin to find BDBC Equality & Diversity policy. iv. Meitner headstone – the Clerk has received three quotes for the work, one for £382, £80 , and finally for £156. Two are from local funeral directors, and the third is from a specialist stone memorial company. The Clerk’s recommendation was for the middle priced quote from the specialist memorial company. Cllr Durrant proposed accepting this quote, Cllr Flooks seconded, unanimously agreed. Clerk to take forward. v. Yew hedging – The clerk has received a quote for replacement yew hedging around the ‘rubbish area’ at the Burial Ground. There will be a fixed fee of £2400 to removal of the old head and any groundworks required, and then the yew hedging can be planted now from pots at a cost of £2598+VAT, or in November from bare root stock, at a cost of £1098+VAT. The quote is from the existing Burial Ground maintenance contractor, so he would be on hand to water the new hedging as necessary. Cllr Oborn proposed accepting the bare roots plants in November, Cllr Wright seconded, unanimously agreed. To come out of CIL funding. Clerk to take forward.	*Clerk* *Cllr Howell / Clerk* *Cllr Tomblin* *Clerk* *Clerk*
9.3	Village Hall Trust – see appendix A · Track – the Clerk has received a reply from the VH Trustees, which has been circulated to all councillors. The VHT has asked that the details remain confidential at this time. The VHT are monitoring the situation very closely, and liaising with the developer equally closely. · Roof – the Clerk has raised the issue of the foyer roof possibly being covered by a builders guarantee. This is being checked. However, the most urgent issues are the roof above the Bramley Room and the roof above the Main Hall kitchen, which would not be covered by any such guarantee.
9.4	Clift Meadow Trust – see appendix A · They Fete was successful. Awaiting financial details.
9.5	Highways/Footpaths · The Bramley Frith path has now been cleared. · Cllr Tomblin asked if a footpath warden was a viable idea. Cllr Howell to talk to members of the Friendship Walks group. · Cinder Track – branch cuttings have been left by the edge of the track and essentially fly tipped. Clerk to take forward.	*Cllr Howell* *Clerk*
9.6	Chairmans Report – Cllr Durrant noted the following: · More CIL funds have been received. · The Parish Green project has not yet approached it’s budget ceiling. · Heat pumps for Cross House to be put on June agenda as a CIL project for discussion.	*Clerk*
10	Events
	None.
11	Consultation documents requiring consideration
11.1	Local Nature Recovery Strategy for Hampshire – details have been circulated to all councillors, and the deadline for comments is 23^rd June. Clerk to forward to Wilder Bramley and ask if they are going to respond. Cllr James to look at in depth. Agenda for June meeting.	*Cllr James* *Clerk*
12	Grant Applications
12.1	Friendship Walking Group – the group has submitted a grant application for hall hire for the coming year, a total of £1150. The group continues to go from strength to strength, and is much more than just a walking group; it has become a social lifeline for many of the people who are part of it. Cllr Tomblin proposed giving the grant, Cllr Bell seconded, unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.	*Clerk*
12.2	Bramley Show – a grant request for £178 has been received from the Bramley Show, for hall hire. The Show as very well received last year. Cllr Durrant proposed granting up to £200 and Cllr Tomblin seconded. Unanimously agreed. Clerk to take forward.	*Clerk*
13	Finance
13.1	Approval of payments (see appendix C) – the Clerk has circulated the list of payments for approval for May. Cllr Wright proposed and Cllr Howell seconded that the May 2025 payments be approved. Unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.	*Clerk*
13.2	CIL Income & Expenditure update – the Clerk noted the recent CIL receipt of £10,427.
13.3	Receipts – the Clerk noted that the first half of the precept, along with the Litter Warden grant and the grass cutting grant, was received in April. She also noted the receipt of the ASB grant towards the cost of new SIDs for the Speedwatch team. The new units have been ordered.
14	Date of Next meeting
	The next full Parish Council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 17^th June 2025.
15	Resolution to exclude press and public from items that may require discussion of possible legal and financial proceedings
	None.
16	Confidential Items
16.1	None.

	The meeting closed at 9.36pm.

Signed: …………………………………………………………………. Date: ………………………………………

(Chairman)
Appendix A – May Briefing notes

COMMUNITY SPEEDWATCH

SIDs – The SIDs were in operation throughout April (See Table 2).

There has been a marked increase in the speeds recorded at Churchlands

Recent Local SpeedWatch Activity – 3 manned Deployment were undertaken during April. A total of 32 vehicles were reported to the Police from the 456 vehicles checked – hit rate 7%. Top speed recorded 41mph. See Table 3.

Equipment

Camera: AutoSpeedWatch:

The camera numbers are now trending upwards with the longer daylight hours. Due to HGV’s creating dust when entering/leaving the Stocks farm development the camera is now requiring more frequent cleaning (from once every 4 – 5 months to now weekly).

Still awaiting response from PCC regarding output from the camera review. I have been informed by the Local Police that they are now going to send out letters to the most prolific speeders monthly. This has not yet commenced and a chase up was recently made.

PCC Equipment Grant

We have received a grant from the PCC Anti-Social Behaviour Fund after a successful grant application for £16,477, for the purchase of 2 new SIDs and a Speedgun. The money was paid to the PC to enable the PC to make the purchase on SpeedWatch’s behalf. The PCC, and possibly the BBC, want to do a media shoot once we have the equipment up and running. PC representation would be welcome for the event.

Why the Grant was applied for? The Current SIDs are approx. 8 years old now, the software is no longer supported. One of the SIDs is becoming difficult to connect to enable data down-load. The Speedgun we currently have is a vast improvement over using a SID for the speed detection, however it is limited by it’s wide field of view, this makes it impossible to do detections when there are other vehicles in the field of view. The new Speedgun has a very narrow field of view and a targeting system that ensures that only the targeted vehicle is recorded. Being aware that the PC would be likely to be unable to fund new equipment due to budget constraints, I though it prudent to seek other sources of funding before the current SIDs became inoperative. It is my intention to continue to use the old SIDs in conjunction with the new until they become non-operational.

Table 1: Camera Data

The following camera data was downloaded on the 1st of May 2025.

Month/Year	Verified Speeders =>35mph	Max Speed Recorded	Highest number of offences committed by one vehicle	Fastest Hour	Illegal Vehicles
May 2024	2752	58	15	7pm
June 2024	3338	60	17	10am
July 2024	3104	61	18	2pm
August 2024	2616	59	13	5am	73
September 2024	1087	54	7	5am	47
October 2024	1032	55	11	9am	34
November 2024	749	51	6	11am	20
December 2024	432	53	3	8am	11
January 2025	593	57	5	1pm	21
February 2025	963	50	9	12pm	32
March 2025	1931	55	13	6pm	37
May	2656	56	13	7pm	85
Total Verified speeders	21253

The Camera trigger and reporting speed are set at =>35mph. Illegal vehicles = no tax, no Mot, or no Tax and Mot.

Camera statistics for April 2025

Table 2: Speed Indicator Device (SID) DATA April 2025:

SID

Location

Days Deploye d

Traffic Directio n

Exceeding 30mph

No Exceeding 60mph

Max Speed Recorded

V85*

Average speed

Farriers

West

46.5

The Street by

Churchlands

East

48%

*V85: 85% of vehicles are driving slower or exactly this speed.

ALLOTMENTS/BURIAL GROUND

Quarterly Allotments Report – The management of the allotment sites continue to take up a significant amount of work.

Administration – A risk assessment is in its first draft and this will be finalised next month.

An Equality and Diversity policy for allotments is needed and adopted and this is also in development.

There is a need to have raised beds for those who are physically unable to tend their plots. Such raised beds have been looked at in Shefield. These require a smooth base, suitable for wheelchairs and without trip hazards. They also need easy access to water and be placed close to the entrance. Gray’s Meadow is not suitable for this as the physical nature of the ground prohibits such adjustments.

St James Allotments – Those who have been on a 4 months improvement notice have been contacted. As of writing 2 plots have been handed back, one is challenging our decision, and we are waiting to hear from the remaining holders. One of the 2 plots will need total preparation for a new tenant.

We need to be seen to taking Equality and Diversity seriously and a policy will follow. There are 2 ways we can make adjustments.

Raised beds. These would need to be placed on a plot close to the dividing a plot and making water more accessible for the plots at the end of the site. This can be addressed by adding an extra tank. A request for the potential cost of this has been made.
Water accessibility. The tanks are effective but for those with mobility problems that means full watering cans are difficult to Cary could be assisted by an extra tank. This can be done be extending the pipe and adding another tank and a cost has been requested.

Main paths and weeds – Weeds are a problem. The area has not proved to be weed resistant, and path material needs to be reviewed. Weeds in the maintenance area need to be removed as does the ingress of vegetation here and around the entrance. This is the responsibility of the council.

Separation paths are generally well kept.

Generally these allotments are doing well.

Gray’s Meadow Allotments – The work done to improve this area has been very successful, although there is some snagging as expected.

The whole area has been fenced, plots divided, new gates installed and numbered, and the back ditch has been cleared so recurring vegetation can be removed easily. Two access paths have been established using hogging and this will help to keep the weeds down.

The plots are generally much improved and those that are not up to standard have had genuine reasons for getting behind. This is in hand.

There are 3 vacant plots, 2 of which need preparation.

Public footpath. This is part of the Santiago de Compostela way and it is the responsibility of the Parish Council as it owns the land.

Trees. A resident alongside the path has complained about an oak tree shedding dead branches, which has now been looked at by a tree surgeon. It seems that there is disease in the trunk and this will need to be examined by a specialist. Worst case scenario is the tree would have to be removed. There is an ash tree that is starting to suffer from die back and the dead branches need to be removed. The ivy also needs removing as once in the crown of the tree, it causes a barrier through which wind cannot pass this could cause a problem. A tree identification survey on the site would be a useful thing to have.

Waiting List – There are currently 5 people who have been on the list for a while and 4 potential new people. A registration form will be ready shortly, emphasizing what is involved in having a plot. Several want a plot at St James only, and these are people who live on the estate.

Allotment Management Software – This has not yet been received or activated.

A Council Facebook Page – This could be a useful way of ensuring only those with a current plot is a member and to share updates from the Council. However there are some people who do not access Facebook at all, so would miss out.

Lock code annual change – would be good practice, especially as plots change hands.

VILLAGE HALL TRUST

Roof Works – a package of roof works has been agreed and will be put out to tender. The first avenue for grant funding will with LIF funding from BDBC, and may cover up to 90% of the project cost.

Car park – issues continue with the Football Club using the Village Hall car park. Enquiries are being made about parking notices and fines, potentially to be managed by a private company.

Strategic plan – the focus at present is on succession planning.

Income – the VHT has received its largest ever monthly income from hall hire alone.

CLIFT MEADOW TRUST

Finances are looking good, the accounts will soon be off to the auditors.
Decorating the buildings during school holidays to be booked.
The Easter egg hunt was a roaring success with 352 children taking part.
Fete organisation is progressing, even the weather seems to be co-operating.
Chase the Sun bike race stopover (21 June) is progressing. Hoping to acquire personal radios to improve co-ordination. Minchens lane should be open in plenty of time although progress is far from speedy .
Fireworks event (1 Nov) to begin organising.
Band to be booked for Christmas lights switch on.
Discussion on emptying bins prior to events.
A vote of thanks to the litter pickers.

BOROUGH COUNCILLOR REPORT

No written report received.

COUNTY COUNCILLOR REPORT

Hampshire celebrates 80th anniversary of VE Day – On the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, 8 May 2025, we will proudly raise the Union Flag outside the Great Hall in Winchester in celebration of the day in 1945, marking the beginning of the end to the nearly six years of World War II.

Across Hampshire various events are taking place to mark this historic anniversary, including a Veterans’ Portraits on Parade exhibition in the Chapel, Royal Victoria Country Park in Netley.

Our venues are getting involved too, including Lepe Country Park’s beachfront café, The Lookout, where fish & chips and jam roly poly with custard will be on the menu all day on Saturday 10 May, £15 per person – open from 9am, last orders 3.45pm!

If you’re planning a street party or celebration, you’ll find information on how to make arrangements on our VE Day webpage, along with links to a wartime blog, and where to find out what’s happening in your community.

Helping Hampshire recycle more – We’ve given the green light to a brand-new, high tech Materials Recovery Facility for Hampshire which, once up and running, will mean you can recycle a wider range of materials from home, including plastic pots, tubs, trays, cartons, and plastic films and pouches for the first time. The £50.5 million investment will support wider changes to how we all recycle and sort our household waste across Hampshire and will mean more material can be sold for recycling into new products – which is good news for the environment.

Did you know, a new fleece jacket can be made from just 25 recycled plastic bottles!

There are no immediate changes to your current kerbside collection arrangements – but we’ll keep you updated.

https://www.hants.gov.uk/News/20250429MRF?utm_source=SAPHybris&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=4986&utm_term=Your%20Hampshire%202%20May%202025___Button%202%3A%20MRF%20news%20release%2029%20April&utm_content=EN

Ticks – all you need to know – As the weather warms up and we get to enjoy the countryside, parks and gardens, it’s worth staying informed about ticks and how to protect yourself. Some tick bites can result in infection, so knowing how to avoid bites while enjoying life outdoors and what to do if bitten is essential. Watch our video to learn more about ticks and how you can prevent these tiny insects latching on to you.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-w9kY5uHqw

Summer Reading Challenge volunteers needed – If you’d like to have a positive impact on children’s reading, our Library Service needs volunteers to help run the Summer Reading Challenge – a fantastic national scheme provided by The Reading Agency and delivered for free throughout Hampshire’s libraries. The Reading Challenge is aimed at primary school aged children, as nationally one in four children are not able to read well by the age of 11, the Challenge encourages them to keep reading during the school holidays. Volunteers, aged 14 and over, can make a difference to young children’s life choices, while gaining valuable experience and skills. It’s great fun and very rewarding!

https://www.hants.gov.uk/jobs/volunteering/volunteeringopportunities/summerreadingchallenge?utm_source=SAPHybris&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=4986&utm_term=Your%20Hampshire%202%20May%202025___Button%204%3A%20Summer%20Reading%20Challenge%20volunteers&utm_content=EN

Protecting consumers in Hampshire – Our Trading Standards team continues to crack down on rogue traders handling illicit products. Recent operations in Andover, Totton, Aldershot and Farnborough, undertaken with the support of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, led to the seizure of illegal vapes, tobacco, and cigarettes with a street value of around £17,900. A reminder that it’s now less than a month to go before the sale of single-use vapes becomes illegal in England. If you suspect the illegal sale of vapes or tobacco products, you can report this via our webpages.

Are you up to date with your vaccinations? – If you’re planning a family holiday or you know teens who’re looking forward to summer festivals, make sure everyone’s vaccinations are up to date to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious infections like measles and meningitis. These can affect anyone – particularly babies and young children, especially if you’re looking to travel abroad or attend public events this summer. Speak to your GP today to ensure you and your family are fully protected.

Journey through Jane Austen’s legacy – As part of the worldwide celebrations remembering Jane Austen’s 250th birthday this year, we have a travelling display charting the extraordinary history and impact of her novels. The vibrant display, created by Jane Austen’s House in Chawton, covers themes from Austen’s novels to illustrations, adaptations of her works, and Jane Austen’s Hampshire, showcasing key objects from the Austen’s House collection.

Exhibition tour dates at Hampshire libraries

October: Lymington Library

Cllr Rhydian Vaughan

Appendix B – Planning Committee minutes

Date:	13^th May 2025	Time: 8.00pm
Place:	Bramley Room, Bramley Village Hall
Present:	Cllr Chris Flooks (Chair)	Cllr Malcolm Bell
	Cllr Alan Munday	Cllr Chris Tomblin
In attendance:	Maxta Thomas (Clerk)	0 members of the public
Apologies:	None received

		*Action*
1	Apologies for Absence
	As listed above.
2	Declarations of Interest
	None.
3	Minutes of the Last Planning Committee Meeting
3.1	The minutes of the meeting held on 11^th March 2025 were unanimously agreed to be a true record of the meeting and were signed by the Chairman.
3.2	Matters arising
	None.
4	Planning & Development
4.1	New Applications
a.	25/00778/HSE – Willow Cottage The Street Bramley Construction of a part single, part two storey rear extension and replacement windows. · Despite a determination date of 22/5/25, this application has already been decided and granted. · Above notwithstanding, no objection. · Clerk to write of Head of Planning querying early determination.	*Clerk*
b.	25/00781/HSE – 28 Minerva Road Bramley Hip to gable loft conversion with 2 dormers and 1 rooflight to front roof slope and 1 dormer and 2 roof lights to rear roof slope. Extension to garage, erection of new wall with door/gate between house and garage, new tarmacked driveway area. Patio area to rear garden. · Overdevelopment of the property – the proposals will create an overbearing look for this property due to the height of the dormer windows. · Dormer windows and extra room will make the building 3 storeys, which is contrary to the Bramley Neighbourhood Plan. · Disturbs the street scene symmetry. · Proposals will give a terraced effect with removal of hip end. · Objections as outlined above unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.	*Clerk*

c.	25/00805/LDPO – 8 Minerva Road Bramley Certificate of lawfulness for the proposed loft conversion with dormer windows · Proposals will turn this dwelling into three storeys – against NDP. · Too many rooflights on front of building. · Objections unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.		*Clerk*
d.	T/00199/25/TPO – 4 Churchlands Bramley T11 Birch Remove, T12 Dawn Redwood Remove · Disappointing that this house was built within a Conservation Area without the necessary protection for the tree roots. · Members noted an error in the application – it states that the trees are not in a Conservation Area when they are. · Clerk to request replacement trees at the property. · Defer to Tree Officer with the above comments unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.		*Clerk*
e.	25/00999/HSE – 3 Bramley Green Road Bramley Proposed single storey rear and side extension to replace existing conservatory and outbuilding · Extension is not in keeping with the rest of the dwelling nor the rest of the houses in the area. · However, no objection in principle. The extension will not be seen from the road. Clerk to process.		*Clerk*
f.	25/01028/LDPO – 8 Portico Way Chineham Certificate of lawfulness for the proposed single storey rear extension. · No objection unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.		*Clerk*
g.	T/00193/25/TCA – The Manor House Vyne Road Bramley T1 – Norway Maple – Remove to ground level. · Already decided – raise no objection. It was noted that the determination deadline was 26^th May. Clerk to write to Head of Planning querying early determination.		*Clerk*
h.	25/00321/FUL – Land At Stocks Farm The Street Bramley Erection of 3 dwellings with initial use for a temporary period as sales showroom marketing suite with associated car parking, access and landscaping. · No objection unanimously agreed. However, any lighting should be switched off overnight. Clerk to process.		*Clerk*
i.	25/01019/FUL – Land Frog Lane Little London Proposed Battery Energy Storage System Facility and Substation Compound including ancillary equipment and infrastructure, together with landscaping and biodiversity enhancements · Objections as per previous battery farm applications. · Accessibility along Ash Lane and Frog Lane will be limited at best, as both are narrow country lanes. · Closeness to Cricketers property – is it a safe distance from battery farm? · Concern about noise levels. · Images of site do not take account of the rise of the land. Projected photos are misleading. · Objections unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.		*Clerk*
j.	25/00996/HSE – 21 Centenary Fields Bramley Erection of single storey rear extension, installation of raised patio and ramp to rear garden with new access point to rear boundary. Internal alterations to create a disabled living accommodation. · No objection to extension, but care should be taken in considering the new access as it may set a precedent for other properties. Unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.		*Clerk*
k.	Any other new applications
	a. 25/01127/PIP – Land To The West Of Little Oak Silchester Road Bramley Permission in principle for the erection of 3 no. dwellings o Outside Settlement Policy Boundary – SS6 of Local Plan. o Isolated development – minimal public transport. o Sewage infrastructure is inadequate at present. o This proposal will build on some of the last remaining green space on the ribbon going through Bramley. o Objection as outlined above unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.		*Clerk*
	b. 25/01053/RET – Cufaude Cufaude Lane Bramley Erection of four no. poles with floodlighting and CCTV cameras and 3 no. poles with CCTV cameras. (retrospective). o Drawing appears to be wrong – it seems to indicate that posts and lights are installed on the opposite side of the carriageway. o Concerns that CCTV cameras will overlook neighbouring properties. o There should be warning signs for the CCTV cameras should permission be given. o Out of keeping with rural environment. o Objections as outlined above unanimously agreed. Clerk to process.		*Clerk*
4.2	Approvals/Refusals/Pending (see appendix A) These were noted.
5.		Appeals
a.		APP/H1705/W/24/3355280 – Locksbridge Farm Cufaude Lane Bramley Application number 24/00407/PIP – Permission in Principle for 2 no. dwellings with separate car port, bin/cycle store and landscaped garden · This appeal is still awaiting the Planning Inspector’s decision.
b.		APP/H1705/W/25/3360191 – Locksbridge Farm Cufaude Lane Bramley Application number 24/01966/PIP – Permission in Principle for the residential development of 1 no. dwelling (Class C3) · This appeal has been linked with the appeal for the same property detailed above. It is still awaiting the Planning Inspector’s decision.
6.		Consultation on natural colonisation at They Vyne
		The Clerk has received and forwarded to members details of a scheme being put forward to create a 17-hectare of highly diverse woodland and native scrub habitat that benefits nature and people through increased public access. The desire method of establishing this habitat is through natural regeneration of native species and some supplementary planting. Footpaths will be established and maintained to give public access to nature. The range of species will also help the woodland be more resilient against future pests and disease, helping ensure that it continues to thrive in the future. The scheme will need to go to planning application – this is a preliminary consultation only. Cllr Flooks proposed supporting the scheme. He has drafted a response to the agents working on behalf of The Vyne. Members noted that public access should be restricted to pedestrian access only, with no vehicular access. This was unanimously agreed. Cllr Flooks and the Clerk to take forward.	*Cllr Flooks/ Clerk*
7.		Water Issues
		Thames Water has confirmed that the proposed works to improve the sewage pipe SPS1 will not commence until November 2025, with completion projected to be in May 2026. Cllr Bell noted continuing issues at Centenary Fields. The residents are in dispute with the developer.
8.		Local Plan Update
		The site selection process is taking place now.
9.		Neighbourhood Plan
		No update at present.
10.		Date of Next Meeting
		The next Planning Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday 10^th June 2025, to be held at the Bramley Room at Bramley Village Hall. Meeting closed at 9.50pm.

Approvals/Refusals*

24/00075/FUL – Land To The East Of Ash Lane And Ash Park Business Centre Ash Lane Little London

Construction of a battery Storage Facility with ancillary development

Granted

Objection

24/02041/FUL – Site At Minchens Lane Bramley

Installation of access track and associated works.

Granted

Objection

24/02846/FUL – Land At Upper Cufaude Farm Cufaude Lane Bramley

Full planning application for Phase 2 at Upper Cufaude Farm delivering 302 residential dwellings, community building, associated infrastructure, landscaping, car parking, and public open space (including a MUGA, LEAP and kickabout area). Access approved under Outline permission: 19/00018/OUT and Phase 1 Reserved Matters permission: 23/02003/RES.

Granted

Objection

24/02800/FUL – Minchens Court Minchens Lane Bramley

Conversion of 4 no. office units (B1), to 2 no. one-bed dwellings, 2 no. two-bed dwellings. Installation of porch/balcony projections, velux conservation roof lights, high-level windows, formation of garden areas, stores, parking, and landscaping

Granted

Objection

T/00089/25/TPO – 5 Churchlands Bramley

Lawson Cypress (T1-T5): This row of Cypress trees: crown reduce.

Granted

No objection

25/00528/HSE – 2 Cornice Road Chineham

Proposed single storey rear extension.

Granted

No objection

25/00721/PIP – Locksbridge Farm Cufaude Lane Bramley

Application for permission in principle for the erection of 2 no. dwellings

Refused

Objection

Pending Applications*

1.	20/03204/VLA – Land At Minchens Lane Bramley Variation of Section 106 agreement attached to 14/01075/OUT to enable the transfer of the Equipped play area, northern kick about and southern kick about areas to the existing management company instead of the Parish Council	No comment as PC has interest in application
2.	24/00446/FUL – Cufaude Cufaude Lane Bramley Change of use of land from Residential to Agricultural with erection of tractor shed on site. Change of use of land from Agricultural to Residential.	No objection, comments
3.	24/01165/OUT – Bow Brook Farm Vyne Road Bramley Outline planning application for the construction of 50 dwellings with all matters reserved except for access	Objection
4.	24/02019/OUT – Land At Goddards Farm Reading Road Sherfield-on-Loddon Outline planning (including access and strategic landscaping for approval) for up to 130 market and affordable homes, a commercial and/or community building, public open space, off-site highway improvements plus access from Reading Road.	Objection
5.	24/02487/LDEU – Park Gate Farm Bramley Corner Bramley Certificate of Lawfulness for the existing use of land as residential and barn/large shed for ancillary domestic purposes in association with Park Gate Cottage.	No objection, comments
6.	24/02660/ROC – Bramley Battery Storage Minchens Lane Bramley Variation of Conditions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 18 of 21/00349/FUL (Installation of a battery storage facility with associated works) – Amendment to site layout and wording of conditions.	Objection
7.	25/00260/VLA – Land At Stocks Farm The Street Bramley Variation of Section 106 agreement attached to 21/03758/OUT to allow an amendment to the occupation trigger associated with the delivery and availability for use of the equipped play space as part of the development	No objection
8.	25/00322/ADV – Land At Stocks Farm The Street Bramley Proposed non-illuminated signage comprising 2 Flag and pole signs, 1 Fascia Sign and 2 stand alone signs.	No objection, comments
9.	T/00141/25/TPO – Land Adjoining 5 North Row Bramley T1754 Tree tag: 2265 English oak: crown reduce.	Defer to Tree Officer
10.	25/00736/ROC – Land At Stocks Farm The Street Bramley Variation of condition 1 (Application Plans), Condition 6 (Visibility Splays), condition 12 (BNG), and condition 13 (Trees) of reserved matters approval reference 23/02868/RES for 140 dwellings, Class E Community building, public open space, landscaping, drainage, parking, and associated infrastructure works (Part retrospective).	Comments
11.	24/01165/OUT – Bow Brook Farm Vyne Road Bramley – AMENDMENTS Outline planning application for the construction of 50 dwellings with all matters reserved except for access	Objection
12.	24/02924/FUL – Locksbridge Farm Cufaude Lane Bramley Reinstate existing site access/current building works access to be used as the permanent private residential access and repositioning of outbuilding. Outbuilding to be a garage rather than the previously approved car port (part retrospective).	Objection
13.	25/00815/PIP – Beech Farm Lane End Bramley Application for Permission in Principle for residential development of a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 9 dwellings	Objection

*Objections/no objections listed are the decision of Bramley Parish Council only, and do not reflect any submissions placed by members of the public or other bodies with Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council.

Appendix C – May Finance Statement

The May 2025 finance statement can be viewed here.