December Update from Your Parish Council

Highways and Byways

The walkers amongst you will have noticed that the gate has now been installed across Mill Lane.

The more observant drivers will have also noticed that the 40mph signs have disappeared at the bottom of the hill.  There is a possibility that the speed restriction will be moved to start before the parking at Fox Culvert but this will take some time and a Traffic Order before being realised.

You will remember that gateways were introduced on the entrance roads to the village a while ago.  These are one of the more subtle ways of traffic calming.  Unfortunately, the one at Hay Green had to be removed as it contravened Conservator policy.  We have asked HCC if a different design could be produced which would meet the Conservators requirements.

Please observe the ‘No Parking’ signs round the Manse Green – these were placed there for your safety.  The infringements are mainly at school times when safety should be your primary concern.

Council

We still have two councillors vacancies so if you are interested in getting involved in the management of the village then please come and talk to us or email clerk@therfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk

We held a council meeting on the 11th November at the Chapel. The agenda and minutes are available on the website and noticeboards.

Precept 2026

It is almost time to set our budget for 2026.  I’m afraid we will be raising the precept again.  Our reserves to cover emergencies are extremely low and we will need to boost them. The recommendation for a small council like ours is to have a reserve of 9 to 12 months expense.

Our minimum spend next year (ie if nothing goes wrong) will be over £10k.  Adding some money for reserves then we expect the 2026 precept will be about £13k.  What does this mean individually?  A band D property would expect their Parish Council tax contribution to increase by about £12 – which is less than a couple of pints in the Fox & Duck.

Playground

We have decided to perform some low-level maintenance on the equipment this financial year.  However, the aerial runway and roundabout remain outside the scope of our budget.  If we receive positive news on the future lease of the playground then we will seek external funding for these items.

Communication

The council will continue to use the google group called the “hub” for sending out important information as well as using the official website.

If you are not currently subscribed to the hub, then we recommend that you sign up.  To do so send an email to hubtherfieldkelshall@gmail.com to be added to the list.  The links can also be found on the parish website.

Our operational site is www.therfieldparishcouncil.gov.uk .  

Please consult this site for information on meetings, notices etc.

David Wealthy

Chair – Therfield Parish Council