Highlights of the Parish Council Meeting March 2026

Key discussions and decisions from the Parish Council meeting, Wednesday, 11 March 2026, are below. Draft minutes can be viewed using this link.

Three members of the public attended the meeting. One presented a petition for signatures against the closing of Maiden Newton Fire Station and another, at the end of the meeting, informed the council that Church for Future Generations has raised enough money to carry out works on the church required in 2026.

Before starting the meeting, the council observed some moments of silence to remember Peggy Denty and her remarkable 96 years in the village. Councillors were very grateful to learn that half of the collection from Peggy's funeral will be donated to the Recreation Ground, the use of which is to be discussed at a future meeting.

Dorset Council update from Cllr Neil Eysenck

Dorset Council has approved additional funding for flood defences and highways. A more collaborative approach with neighbouring counties is being developed to improve flood prevention. It is hoped the additional highways funding will allow a more proactive approach to road maintenance rather than simply reacting to problems. He acknowledged residents’ frustrations with delays to pothole repairs. TPPC emphasised that funding for flood prevention should be used quickly and effectively, and that highways repairs should be carried out properly rather than as temporary fixes that fail again in bad weather.

Cllr Eysenck also highlighted ongoing concerns about proposals to close rural fire stations, including Maiden Newton. He encouraged communities to submit their petitions in person and to speak at upcoming Dorset Council meetings to ensure views are properly heard.

Finance

At the end of February the council’s bank balance stood at £15,995.77. To help with day-to-day administration, the council authorised the clerk to apply for a debit card for the council’s bank account. Any purchases will still require prior approval from the council’s bank signatories in line with Financial Regulations.

Highways

Powerstock Bridge: investigations continue to develop a long-term repair solution, including biodiversity requirements. TPPC requires confirmation the project will go ahead soon as on estimates previously provided work should already be underway.

High Street Bridge: the capacity assessment has not been finalised, however, all agree a weight restriction is not an appropriate solution. Strengthening options include a major repair project with a long road closure or a partial infill requiring shorter closures over two separate periods. The council agreed in principle that the infill method may be acceptable provided it does not restrict the flow of Toller Brook and access for residents is maintained. Residents will be consulted once more detailed proposals are available.

Fire Station Closure consultation

A significant discussion focused on the proposed closure of Maiden Newton Fire Station. Following strong feedback from residents, including a poll on Facebook, the council agreed a formal position opposing the closure unless response times to the village and surrounding areas can be maintained or improved. The council will also ask Edward Morello MP and the Leader of Dorset Council to seek a review of the government funding formula for Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service so that it better reflects the challenges of serving rural communities. A separate article details the council's formal position and response to the consultation.

Other updates

The council considered two planning applications lending support to one and a conditional response to the other. Responses can be viewed on the Planning Applications page.
Pound Piece will be closed for resurfacing works 19 March and 20 April, the Ammonite Surgery will be open with pedestrian access only.
The council agreed a positive response to the Wild Beaver Release consultation.

Upcoming meetings

The Annual Parish Assembly will take place Wednesday 8 April 2026 at 7pm in the Village Hall. The speaker will be from the Chalk Stream Restoration Frome Headwaters Project. All are welcome.

The Annual Parish Council Meeting will be held Wednesday 13 May 2026 at 7pm in the Village Hall