Since last year’s APM, the planning application for Barnard Meadow submitted in April 2025, had some positive comments and responses from the public and Wiltshire Council (WC) departments and we had hoped to have a decision by July.

However the Ecology department required an extra environmental survey and more requirements to fit in with the national planning policy framework on bio diversity net gain. To move the project forward our architect contracted with an Ecology consultant to work on these requirements and submit a report.

 

This all took time and in the meantime, we understood we would be required to comply with new legislation and costs were involved. Hence the delay in approval of our application. The planning officer at WC has been most helpful and liaised well with our architect.

 

Kay and I attended a Wiltshire community foundation event for grant providers including the national lottery, and we have a list of grant providers in the pipeline, but of course we cannot apply until we have planning permission. The rules and criteria for grants have been tightened and the use of AI will be a probable requirement for submissions. I have attended some webinars to keep our project fresh in the public domain.

 

Now for the good news!
Our ever popular quiz night was held in October ‘25 and proceeds shared with St James’ church. A second fun race night took place in February of this year, again a highly enjoyable and lucrative event. We continue with give as you live and easy fundraising to swell the coffers. Two most generous donations from NNPC were very welcome.

 

A new noticeboard at the village hall site was erected in April and thanks to the area board for their contribution. We have a second one in storage for Barnard Meadow.

 

I would like to thank my fellow trustees and committee, Madeline, Malcolm and Paula, Mac, Kay, Richard, and other friends of the hall and stalwart volunteers, Andrew and Alison, Sue and Robert, Dorothy, Tacye and Kathleen. Apologies if I have left anyone out.
Thanks to Tim for keeping the Barnard Meadow site strimmed and tidy, and Neil for the same with the VH site.

Thanks to Paul Oatway and area board for support. Last but not least Patrick and Susie for their professionalism and patience.

 

Carolyn

Chair of Trustees