Minutes 09/2025
Present: Cllrs Nick Humphries (Chair), Jacqueline Allum and Martyn Walton
In attendance: Kerry Williamson (Clerk)
Parishioners: 15
- Chairman’s Welcome & Announcements
Due to the absence of both the Chairman and Vice-Chairman, it was RESOLVED to appoint Cllr Nick Humphries as Chairman for the meeting.
- Apologies for absence
Cllrs Martin Willingale and Richard Whitlow, and District Cllr Ben Hurdman sent apologies.
- Declarations of Personal and Prejudicial Interest
- Register of Interests
Noted.
- Disclosable Pecuniary Interests
None.
- Other Disclosable Interests
None.
- Dispensations
None.
- Open Session
The meeting was adjourned for the open session.
- District Councillors
Cllr Ben Hurdman provided the following report to be shared at the meeting:
Local Government Re-Organisation
Wychavon councillors have unanimously backed creating a South Worcestershire Council as one of two new councils to run services in Worcestershire in future.
Under government plans for Local Government Reorganisation, Wychavon, the five other district, borough, and city councils and Worcestershire County Council will be abolished on 1 April 2028. They will be replaced by either one single council for Worcestershire running all services, or two councils – one for the North and one for the South – with each authority responsible for all services for its part of the county.
Consultants, funded by the Government, Mutual Ventures were asked to assess both options and the findings were presented to councillors at a meeting on Wednesday (3 September). The report included analysis of the Shape Worcestershire public engagement, which saw 57% of Wychavon residents back the two unitary option with only 22% preferring a single unitary.
The assessment found while a single unitary council for all of Worcestershire could make significant savings, the North and South unitary council option would deliver more effective democratic representation, better meet local needs and empower effective community engagement. Concerns about having to break up large countywide services, like adult social care, could be dealt with through shared service arrangements like those used for regulatory services, planning and housing.
During the debate, councillors expressed frustration with the Government for imposing reorganisation on the area and giving little time to plan properly for the changes. Concerns were raised about whether the proposed cost savings under a single unitary model were realistic, the impact on service quality and provision and Council Tax levels – which on average are lower in Wychavon, Worcester City and Malvern Hills.
A single council for Worcestershire would also mean there would be more than 6,000 residents per councillor, which it was felt would make elected representatives too remote from the people they served and may negatively impact relationships with parish and town councils.
Councillors unanimously voted to recommend to the Government the creation of a South Worcestershire Council (Malvern Hills District, Worcester City and Wychavon Councils) along with a North Worcestershire Council (Bromsgrove District, Redditch Borough and Wyre Forest District Councils). Shared service arrangements will be used to avoid having to break up existing countywide services, unless better services can be delivered more locally.
SWDPR
On 25th June, the South Worcestershire Council received a letter from the Planning Inspectors setting out their interim thoughts on the SWDPR and the way forward for the examination (Exam 99). It should be noted that the examination is not yet concluded and that the Inspectors’ comments are without prejudice to their final conclusions.
The Inspectors’ interim findings broadly support the SWDPR subject to Main Modifications. They have raised concerns about the 5-year Housing Land Supply but recommend a pragmatic adoption approach to secure delivery across the plan period. Key allocations at Worcestershire Parkway and Rushwick are supported, while Throckmorton is to be treated as a future area of search. Mitton will be discussed at a further hearing session scheduled for 4th September 2025.
The interim conclusion with regard to the 5-year Housing Land Supply is disappointing and, if maintained, would mean that planning applications for housing would still be the subject of decisions under the tilted balance provisions. The South Worcestershire Councils have already raised their concerns with regard to this and there has been an exchange of correspondence with the Planning Inspectors. In particular, further evidence in relation to the Worcester South urban extension site and its deliverability has been submitted for the Inspectors consideration. This site to the south of the city has outline planning approval, a committed landowner and a selected developer and as such, it is considered by the Councils that it can make a significant and robust contribution to the Councils’ 5-year Housing Land Supply.
On 16th July as requested by the Inspectors, the Councils also provided additional evidence in support of the proposed allocation at Mitton (SWDPR 54) – this related to transportation impacts and ecology (a breeding curlew survey).
On 21st July the Inspectors responded to the additional evidence provided by the Councils on housing supply and the Worcester South allocation in particular (Exam 99C). This response was positive and included the statement that “Given the changes in circumstances with this significant site, we will take into account the new evidence in deciding whether the Worcester South site should be considered as being deliverable in terms of the NPPF and PPG, and if so, the number of dwellings to be included in the five-year housing land supply”.
On 23rd July Inspectors issued further Matters, Issues and Queries (MIQs) with regard to housing supply and the Worcester South allocation as well as the Mitton allocation. The deadline for responses was 26th August with a further Virtual Hearing session on these matters alone that was held on 4th September.
Finally, officers are continuing to prepare the final Main Modifications to the SWDPR to be provided to the Inspectors in August prior to anticipated public consultation in the Autumn.
All the latest news, evidence and representations can be viewed on the examination webpage.
https://www.localplanservices.co.uk/swdpreview
As outlined above the Main Modifications for all four of the strategic sites (Worcestershire Parkway, Throckmorton, Rushwick and Mitton) are being progressed.
The additional information and technical notes for Mitton were submitted to the Inspectors on 16th July as requested. The additional information relates to transportation issues (including Junction 9 of the M5) and ecology (breeding curlew surveys).
Work on the Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) for Worcestershire Parkway is progressing. There is also on-going engagement with Homes England regarding the site and it is also anticipated that the New Towns Task Force will be reporting on their findings shortly.
The final session of the public examination phase of the SWDPR took place on Thursday, 4 September 2025. It looked at outstanding issues related to Mitton, provision for housing and Five-Year Housing Land Supply (5YHLS).
Since the Inspectors’ initial comments, we have provided them with further evidence regarding the 5YHLS, as well as responses to other matters raised.
WCC Public Right of Way Improvement Plan consultation
Work has begun to update Worcestershire County Council’s Rights of Way Improvement Plan. This plan sets out how the Public Rights of Way network can meet the needs of the public, now and in the future.
They have also set up a public online survey, which they are encouraging residents of Worcestershire to complete.
There is also a specific questionnaire for parish councils to complete.
The questionnaire is available at: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/RoWIPengage
The consultation closes at midnight on 26th October 2025.
Advisory Panel co-optees
Wychavon are looking for people to become co-opted members of our Town, Communities and Rural advisory panels. These volunteer roles have proved successful at offering people the opportunity to work with councillors and officers and providing constructive challenge, support and fresh ideas.
More information and an application form can be found on our website: https://www.wychavon.gov.uk/news-and-alerts/play-your-part-in-wychavon-life-join-our-advisory-panels
The deadline for applications is 5 pm on 26 September 2025. Applications can be submitted online: https://form.jotform.com/231154344010035
- County Councillor
Cllr Satinder Bell provided the following report to be shared at the meeting:
- Full council meeting was held on 11th sept. Priority actions are budget and financial situation in the county council.
- Resolution achieved with various queries raised by residents about potholes, weeds and graffiti clearance along with maintenance work carried out at various locations within the division with visits to the site and to see the residents.
- Divisional funds support applications granted towards bleeding kit, immediate response emergency vehicle, children’s play area and community engagement festivals.
- Healthy Worcestershire session has been moved from Broadway to Church Lench and first session has been successful.
- Full cabinet meeting has discussed Get Worcestershire working and budget responsibility and actions going forward.
- Village Hall Committee
Cllr Martin Willingale (Parish Council representative to the Village Hall Committee) provided the following report to be shared at the meeting:
VILLAGE HALL
(www.abbotsmorton.info/abbots-morton-village-hall)
Follow us on Facebook for up-to-date information. If you would like to be added to The Friends of AMVH whatsapp group, please drop us an email with your details.
Abbots Morton ‘Bimble’ Worcestershire Car Drive Out.
Saturday 4th October, 1.30pm. To meet at The Old Bull, Inkberrow and follow a planned route, returning to Abbots Morton Village Hall for 4.30pm where tea & coffee will be served, followed by a talk and a small exhibition. Hot food will be served at 6.30pm. BYOB. Car themed raffle. All car types are welcome. £12.50 pp. Please contact Tina Hill at Tinahill18@hotmail.com for further info and tickets.
CAR THEMED RAFFLE donations of raffle prizes will be gratefully received. Please hand them to Debra Carew-Cox, or any committee member.
Community Coffee Morning, first Tuesday of every month.
Tuesday 7th October, 10am to 12 noon.
If you haven’t been to one of our coffee mornings yet, please drop by anytime between 10am and 12 noon. It’s absolutely free and a lovely opportunity to spend a couple of hours with others in the community. Please join us – you’ll get a warm welcome. Donations to the Power Pot are gratefully received.
Tai Chi
Wednesdays 10am – 11am.
Tai Chi is run by Andrew Lowe as 7 week sessions. If you would like to take part contact Andrew on 07495 206178 or via his website taichiworcestershire.com
Yoga Sessions
Monday and Thursday mornings, 9.45-10.45am
Amy Hoang-Jones from Astwood Bank now runs two yoga classes in the Village Hall on Monday and Thursday mornings. If you would like to join please call Amy on 07745 713493.
Pilates with Allyson Giel
Wednesdays 3rd September, 10th September, 24th September, 8th October, 15th October and 22nd October.
FUTURE EVENTS
Christmas Quiz Night
Our next quiz night will be on Friday 28th November. Antony and Sue Bunce will again be our quizmasters, and tickets will include a glass of Willingale mulled wine and festive nibbles! Further details to follow.
CPR Session
On Saturday 17th January 2026 Antony will be holding a CPR Session at 2pm. This time has been chosen to allow families to attend and will be FREE of charge. There will be an opportunity for donations to be shared equally between AMVH and The Vale of Evesham Community First Responders.
Easyfundraising
We have 28 supporters to date. The Village Hall has benefitted from the scheme by almost £1,400 thanks to our supporters. By joining you can help to raise funds for your Hall every time you shop online at NO cost to yourself. Just go to www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/abbotsmortonvillagehall and sign up to help the Village Hall every time you shop online.
- Footpaths Officer
Footpaths Officer, Ann Clayden provided the following report to be shared at the meeting:
- During July, the County council’s contractors completed the clearance of ground vegetation along the bridleway at the east end of the village which runs north from Morton Spiert Farm towards Knighton, and on footpath 500(B) towards Inkberrow. Appreciative comments have been received from a member of the public!
- Cutting back overhanging vegetation, especially around stiles and kissing gates, is an ongoing task. I do my best to keep up with it; my thanks to the secret snipper(s) who take a pair of secateurs on their walks and do their bit to help!
- Things are moving (albeit slowly) on the replacement ditch crossing on AM523 – the County Council are obtaining quotes for the work and hope to award the contract shortly.
(Ann Clayden, September 2025)
- Public participation
15 parishioners in attendance raised concerns with Planning in Principle application W/25/01853/PIP (agenda item 6.3). Concerns were as follows:
- The site is of significant archaeological importance. There are uniquely well-preserved settlement earthworks and signs of medieval life.
- The site is in the Conservation Area (2005 paper).
- The hedge at the front of the site acts a wind break and protects surrounding properties. It also absorbs a lot of water, which could result in flooding if hedge is removed.
- Acceptance of application will set a precedence and open the floodgates to more development.
- Light pollution – the site is at a higher point in the village, emitting light over the surrounding properties. Light affecting moth ecology.
- Pond at the site is a natural reservoir, believed to be over 300 years old. Toads migrate to the pond. Historic link to a series of wells in the village.
- Privacy – the site is at a higher point in the village.
- Increase in traffic in village.
- Strain on utilities – electricity.
The meeting resumed following the open session.
- To consider and adopt the minutes from the Parish Council meeting on the 3rd July 2025
It was RESOLVED to adopt the minutes as a true record, and they were duly signed by the Chair.
- Planning: To consider the following planning applications to be determined by Wychavon District Council:
- W/25/01264/HP Associated Ref: W/25/01265/LB: Tudor Cottage, Abbots Morton Road, Abbots Morton Worcester, WR7 4NA. Proposed extension, replacement of dormer coverings to North elevation.
Cllr Nick Humphries reported that this had been approved at Planning Committee.
- W/25/01265/LB Associated Ref: W/25/01264/HP: Tudor Cottage, Abbots Morton Road, Abbots Morton, Worcester, WR7 4NA. Proposed extension, replacement of dormer coverings to North elevation and internal alterations (Listed Building Consent). To discuss.
Cllr Nick Humphries reported that this had been approved at Planning Committee.
- W/25/01853/PIP: Land At (OS 0301 5516), Abbots Morton Road, Abbots Morton. Permission in Principle for the erection of up to 3no dwellings.
Councillors discussed the application and unanimously AGREED that the application should be objected to for the following reasons:
- Does not constitute sustainable development.
- Site is a prominent open space within Conservation Area and site is of archaeological interest.
- Site is outside of the settlement boundary.
- Negative ecological impact.
Cllr Nick Humphries to draft a response and circulate for approval. Clerk to submit response by extended deadline of 29th September.
- Public Rights of Way and Highways
- PROW maintenance and obstruction issues: To consider and review.
No issues.
- Lengthsman Scheme: To receive an update and to consider any items for the Lengthsman’s work schedule.
No additional items for the Lengthman’s work schedule. The Lengthsman had reported that a kerb and road sweep was required on Village Road. The Clerk had requested this and a drain clearance.
- Flooding: Update on the flooding issues within the Parish.
No updates due a dry period in the weather.
- Progress reports
- Speeding & Road Safety: The Clerk had submitted the petition to Worcestershire County Council. Initial response was that a speed data collection would be carried out. Clerk to keep in contact with Worcestershire County Council for progress and updates.
- Devolution/Unitary Authority: The Clerk provided an update. Wyre Forest District Council and Worcestershire County Council would be putting forward a proposal for one unitary Council, the remaining 5 District Councils would be putting forward proposals for two unitary Councils with a North/South split.
- Parish Matters for Discussion/Decision
- Parish & Town Council Survey 2025: The survey from West Mercia Police was completed, Clerk to submit before the deadline of 14th October 2025.
- Rights of Way Improvement Plan Questionnaire: The questionnaire from Worcestershire County Council was completed, Clerk to submit before the deadline of 26th October 2025.
- Millennium Beacon: It was AGREED to research siting the Millennium Beacon on the Village Green. Cllr Martyn Walton would secure it on a base. The Clerk to contact Wychavon District Council to enquire about siting the Beacon on the Village Green.
- Christmas Tree on the Village Green: It was AGREED to have a Christmas tree on the Village Green in December 2025. Discussion ensued around a permanent tree to be more sustainable and reduce costs. The Clerk to contact Wychavon District Council to enquire about planting a permanent tree on the Village Green.
- Worcestershire Libraries Community Outreach: It was AGREED that the Libraries Community Outreach scheme would not benefit Abbots Morton residents. Residents now have access to a book swap at the Church.
- Finance
- Budget expenditure: To consider and approve.
It was RESOLVED to approve the budget expenditure.
- Bank reconciliation: To consider and approve.
It was RESOLVED to approve the bank reconciliation.
- Clerk National Pay Scales 2025/26: To note.
The Clerk’s new pay scale value was noted.
- Invoices: To approve the following invoices for payment:
- Kerry Williamson (salary and expenses): £809.28
- HMRC PAYE: £53.47 (credit used)
- Jeremy Moore (Lengthsman): £528
- Abbots Morton Village Hall (meeting room booking): £27
- Graham Hobbs (Village planters): £17.97
It was RESOLVED to settle the above invoices via internet banking.
- Correspondence
- Worcestershire CALC: Health & Wellbeing Newsletters (August & September).
The above correspondence was NOTED.
- Worcestershire CALC: Quarterly Meeting of Wychavon Area of CALC.
The Clerk NOTED that this meeting clashed with the Parish Council meeting.
- Worcestershire CALC: Staff Pay Scales 2025/26.
The above correspondence was NOTED and covered under item 10.3.
- Worcestershire CALC: Information Session for Wychavon Councils.
The above correspondence was NOTED.
- Worcestershire CALC: Save the Date – AGM.
The above correspondence was NOTED.
- Wychavon District Council: Neighbourhood Planning Funding Update
The above correspondence was NOTED.
- Worcestershire County Council: Review of the Rights of Way Improvement Plan
The above correspondence was NOTED and covered under item 9.2.
- West Mercia Police: Town and Parish Council Survey 2025.
The above correspondence was NOTED and covered under item 9.1.
- Councillors’ reports and items for the next agenda
There were none.
- Date of the next meeting
The next scheduled meeting would be on 27th November 2025. Cllr Jacqueline Allum offered her apologies for the next meeting.
The meeting closed at 9.06PM.