CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

In a tumultuous year in world and financial affairs it is pleasing to be able to report that at a local level we have been able to continue our support for local organisations, whilst improving our local facilities and keeping a tight control of our finances. Evidence that supporting local groups, whilst providing first class facilities, is beneficial came with the news in the summer that Headley had been awarded Hampshire winner of the Calor Village of the Year Competition.

Our thanks go to The Headley Society for organising and coordinating the entry, but without the superb day in and day out work of numerous local groups and societies the application would not have succeeded.

We have used Developers Contributions to good effect during the year. The car park at the village green has been resurfaced, two bus shelters provided on the Grayshott Road and we have contributed significantly to the restoration of the Heatherlands Football pitch. As well as a much-needed local open space the flat surface will be a boost to the Headley Youth football team who intend to make use of the surface once the grass has taken root.

Following the bad weather in February 2009, we have purchased 6 grit bins and positioned these in places that members of the public indicated were important to safety and access. We intend to purchase a further 6 during 2010. The provision of grit bins used to be the responsibility of the Highways Authority but is no longer a priority for them. Where necessary your Parish Council will step in to maintain such an essential service. Last year for example we took over local bus shelter maintenance.

At our September meeting we adopted the ‘Power of Wellbeing.’ This is the informal name given to the statutory power enabling a local authority to do anything which it considers likely to achieve the promotion or improvement of the economic, social or environmental well-being of their area. Whilst we have no plans or projects currently requiring this legislation, we felt it prudent to be in a position where we could react should the need arise. One project already identified as being within our influence is maintenance of the war memorial. The local Royal British Legion has brought this to our attention and we hope to progress remedial work shortly.

Sadly during the year James Hadfield resigned from the Council after many years of service. We thank him for his efforts but were pleased to welcome Doreen Parfect, elected as his replacement. Finally I would like to thank the Clerk, Responsible Financial Officer, my Vice-Chairman and fellow Councillors for their support and assistance in the smooth running of our Council during the past year.

Richard Clifford
Chairman,
Headley Parish Council