March Newsletter

/in /by

🌟 Maiden Newton & Frome Vauchurch Parish Council Newsletter

πŸ“’ Parish Council Update – March 2026

 

πŸš’ Fire Station Consultation
The Parish Council has submitted an objection to the proposed changes that could impact Maiden Newton. Residents are encouraged to complete the consultation and attend the public meetings at the Village Hall on 19 March plus other events on 14th April and 16th April please check noticeboards and Facebook for more information.

 

🌧 Flooding Update
Residents, councillors and the Flood Warden recently met with MP Edward Morello and the Ward Councillor to discuss the flooding issues affecting the village. Work is now beginning on an updated Flood and Community Resilience Plan for Maiden Newton and Frome Vauchurch.

 

⚽ Playing Field & Youth Football Club
Positive discussions have taken place with the Maiden Newton Youth Football Club about a lease for the playing field. The club will continue to maintain the area and pay an annual fee while the Parish Council continues grass cutting.

 

πŸ”§ Village Maintenance
Recent work includes repairs to the MUGA hut lock and water supply also investigating lighting faults, planning repairs to the village clock and the replacement of bollards by the Cross.
The allotment gate remains locked until ground conditions improve, and quotes are being obtained to carry out repairs the track following flood damage.

 

🦫 Beaver Consultation
Dorset Wildlife Trust is consulting on a potential beaver release in the River Frome catchment. A representative will be invited to speak at the Annual Parish Assembly.

 

🧹 Community Litter Pick
πŸ“… Saturday 22nd March
πŸ•™ 10:00am
πŸ“ Meet at the War Memorial
Gloves recommended – bags and litter pickers provided.

 

🏑 Annual Parish Assembly followed by a Parish Council meeting
πŸ“… 9 April – 6:30pm
πŸ“ Village Hall
All residents welcome to attend.

Β 

For more info see the noticeboards and Parish website where you will find the contact details of Councillors.

Get in touch- For inquiries or assistance please contact the Clerk/RFO

Mrs Michele Harding, C/o West Elworth Farm, Portesham Weymouth, Dorset DT3 4HF.

Email clerk@maidennewtonandfromevauchurch-pc.gov.ukΒ  Tel: 07831 029677

Website: www.maidennewtonandfromevauchurch-pc.gov.uk

 

Councillor Vacancies

/in /by

Come and join your Parish CouncilYour village needs you!

Following the resignation of 2 Councillors we have vacancies

1 in Maiden Newton Parish and 1 in Frome Vauchurch Parish

Β 

 

 

The Parish Council owns and manages The MUGA, Playing Field, Allotments, Play Area, Rock Pit Car Park, Harveys Green, plus monuments and street furniture.

The PC comments on planning applications and is currently working on a Transport Plan for the benefit of the community.

Do you have the time, energy, skills and enthusiasm to help with these projects and become a Parish Councillor……. then we need you!

Eligibility:

You are over 18 and are a British, Commonwealth or European Union Citizen and at least one of the following:

  • A registered local government elector in the parish area in which you wish to stand as a candidate
  • Occupied as owner or tenant any land or other premises in the parish area during the whole of the 12 months before the day of your nomination
  • Your main or only place of work during the 12 months prior to the day of your nomination has been in the parish area
  • You have lived in the parish area or within three miles of it during the whole of the 12 months before the day your nomination

We would aim to co-opt at the 5th February Parish Council meeting so please contact any Parish Councillor for more information or email the Clerk for the Β Β Β Β Β Β Β Β co-option form which can also be found on our website.

The Co-option policy and form can be found on our website

https://maidennewtonandfromevauchurch-pc.gov.uk

Contact the Clerk by email:

clerk@maidennewtonandfromevauchurch-pc.gov.uk Β Β or Tel 07831 029677

(Forms to be returned by 2nd February to be considered)

 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

/in /by

πŸŽ„βœ¨Β Merry Christmas from Maiden Newton and Frome Vauchurch Parish CouncilΒ βœ¨πŸŽ„

As we approach the end of another year, we would like to take this opportunity to wish all our residents a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Thank you for your continued support and engagement with our community throughout 2025. We look forward to working with you all in the year ahead.

May your festive season be filled with warmth, joy, and time spent with loved ones.

Wishing you all a peaceful and prosperous 2026! πŸŽ…πŸŽ

Maiden Newton and Frome Vauchurch Parish Council

Notice of Vacancy

/in /by

NOTICE OF VACANCY IN OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR

FROME VAUCHURCH PARISH

 

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN

 

Pursuant to Section 87(2) of the Local Government Act 1972, that Bekkie Webb has ceased to be a Member of the Parish Council, and that a vacancy now exists in the office of Councillor for the Parish Council.

 

If within 14 days after the date of this notice (i.e. no later than 5 January, 2026), a request for an election to fill the vacancy is made either in writing to the Returning Officer, Electoral Services, Dorset Council, County Hall, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1XJ or by email to elections@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk by TEN electors for the Parish, an election will be held to fill the vacancy, otherwise the vacancy will be filled by co-option.

 

If an election is called, it will take place not later than 9 March 2026.

 

Dated 10 December 2025

 

Michelle Harding

Clerk to Maiden Newton and Frome Vauchurch Parish Council

 

* In computing any period of time for this purpose, a Saturday or Sunday, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Good Friday or a bank holiday or day appointed for thanksgiving or mourning must be disregarded

 

 

December Newsletter

/in /by

🌟 Maiden Newton & Frome Vauchurch Parish Council Newsletter

December 2025

πŸͺ΄ Chair’s Comments

Thanks to everyone involved in preparing the Skips Field consultation paper (closing December 15th).
πŸŽ„ A special thank-you to all who helped install the Christmas tree and light up the Cross β€” it looks wonderful!
πŸ€ We’re also delighted to report that the new MUGA fence has now been installed.

 

🌊 Flood Update

πŸ“˜ A geomorphologist’s report confirms the river channel is stable. Removing gravel bars would damage our precious chalk stream habitat without reducing flood risk.
🚰 Residents are kindly encouraged to help by keeping drains clear and reporting any blockages.
🌳 The Countryside team will clear grips, and Dorset Council has reported the tree trunk in the River Frome to the Environment Agency for action.

🏑 Council Property & Maintenance

🌿 Allotments: Annual hedge maintenance will take place December 15–17.
πŸ› οΈ Bus Shelters: Repairs have been approved for Dorchester Road and Webber’s Piece.
🎠 Play Area: Works approved include filling safety-surface gaps, removing broken equipment, and treating the area for moss.

πŸ“Š Skips Field Survey – Early Results

So far, 32 out of 42 respondents support the Parish Council acquiring Skips Field β€” showing strong community enthusiasm for local ownership!
πŸ’š Ways residents are willing to help: financial support, fundraising, planning input, and practical/professional expertise.
πŸ€” Concerns raised: cost, maintenance, management, and limited use.
🌼 Key priorities emerging:
β€’ Wildlife & conservation
β€’ Benches and quiet space
β€’ Children’s play
β€’ Improved access
β€’ Tackling vandalism & dog mess

πŸ—“οΈ The survey closes December 15th, and results will be considered further in February.

πŸ“ Planning & Finance

🏑 Planning: No objections were raised regarding the proposed extension at 3 Back Lane, Frome Vauchurch.
πŸ’· Council funds currently total: Β£119,815.88.
πŸ’» To support smoother operations, the Council agreed to purchase Microsoft Office Premium via Cloudy IT.

🚢 Highways & Rights of Way

🚏 The sign location on Chapel Lane has been reported for improvement.

πŸ›£οΈ Dorset Council Update

πŸ‘· New County Highways Officers will be starting soon, alongside a refreshed management system planned for 2026.
πŸ“‘ Asset transfers were discussed β€” with reassurance that no assets will be imposed on parishes.
πŸ“… The Dorset Local Plan is now expected around 2028–29.

🏘️ Community Updates

πŸ—“οΈ Next Parish Council meeting: February 6th, 2026
πŸ‘Ά The preschool/after-school committee welcomes new members, including grandparents.
🌐 Residents are encouraged to register interest with Wessex Internet to support fibre rollout in the village.

🎁 The Parish Council wishes everyone a very Merry Christmas, and a Happy & Healthy New Year!

Skips Field Consultation

/in /by

🌿 Have your say on the future of Skips Field! 🌿

Skips Field is a much-loved open space in our village β€” enjoyed for its footpaths, natural beauty, wildlife, and peaceful surroundings. There is now a potential opportunity for the community to secure it for future generations.

The Parish Council and Community Land Trust would love to hear your views, ideas, and concerns before any decisions are made.

πŸ“ Please take a few minutes to complete the consultation form β€” online or paper copies available. Your voice will help shape the future of Skips Field.

πŸ“… Deadline: 15th December

πŸ‘‰ Have your say here: https://forms.office.com/r/iHwHdrTWdN

November update

/in /by

πŸ“° Maiden Newton & Frome Vauchurch Parish Council – November 2025 Update

Welcome & Remembrance
The Chair welcomed residents to the meeting and reminded everyone about the Remembrance service at the War Memorial on 11th Nov at 10:50 am. The hearing loop is now operational for meetings.

πŸ’» Full Fibre Broadband
Wessex Internet is rolling out full fibre in the village and Cruxton. Residents can register online to express interest. Pop-up stalls will share info locally.

πŸ›  Village Projects & Maintenance

  • Play Area: Minor repairs underway; surfacing interim fixes until full funding available.
  • MUGA: Surfacing delayed until spring; reopened for use.
  • Bus Shelters: Ivy removal, repainting, and glass/roof repairs planned.
  • Skips Field: Public consultation coming soon to gauge support.
  • Oak Tree Planting & Christmas Tree: Approved! Village tree and cross to be decorated for festive season.

🌊 Flooding & River Update
Concerns raised about silt and debris around village bridges. Councillor Neil Eysenck will contact the MP and Environment Agency. Tree trunk in river to be reported.

🏑 Planning Updates

  • Cruxton Solar Farm application refused.
  • Local Plan & Transport Plan consultations submitted.

πŸ’° Finance & Budget 2026–27

  • Precept rises 5% to Β£39,590.
  • Budget returns to normal after major 2025–26 projects.
  • Β£3.3k surplus to rebuild reserves for future village projects.

🚢 Community Updates

  • New footpath signs installed.
  • Winter road resurfacing paused; will resume in spring.
  • Suggestions received for visitor toilet access and Chapel Lane signage issues.

 

Follow us on social media for village updates, consultations, and ways to get involved!

Full minutes of the meeting are available on the website

πŸ“… Next Meeting: Β Thursday 4th December 7pm
πŸ“ Maiden Newton Village Hall
πŸ‘₯ Everyone is welcome β€” come along and have your say!

For more info see the noticeboards and Parish website where you will find the contact details of Councillors.

Get in touch- For inquiries or assistance please contact the Clerk/RFO

Mrs Michele Harding, C/o West Elworth Farm, Portesham Weymouth, Dorset DT3 4HF.

Email clerk@maidennewtonandfromevauchurch-pc.gov.ukΒ  Tel: 07831 029677

Website: www.maidennewtonandfromevauchurch-pc.gov.ukΒ Β Β Β 

 

Transport news 30-10-25

/in /by
🚐 TRAVEL INFORMATION 2025
πŸŽ„ Christmas changes to be advised πŸŽ„
🚌 Dorset Council β€œRing and Ride” – Dorchester
πŸ“… Tuesdays & Thursdays
πŸ•™ From Old School 10:00 β†’ Return from Trinity Street 12:45
πŸ’· Adults Β£2.50 single | Children half price | ❌ No bus passes
πŸ“ž Book by 3pm the day before: 01305 228965
🚍 Dorset Community Transport
πŸ“ž Register & book by 2:30pm the day before: 01258 287987
πŸ’· Adult return Β£8 | βœ… Bus passes valid
Dorchester – Wednesdays
🚏 Dorchester Rd / Church Rd corner 09:55 (ish) β†’ Return Trinity St 13:00
Yeovil (near M&S) – Thursdays (every other)
πŸ—“ 30 Oct | 13 Nov | 27 Nov | 11 Dec
🚏 Dorchester Rd by bungalows (school stop) 09:28 β†’ Return 12:30
πŸ’· Β£4 out-of-county charge
Bridport – Fridays
🚏 War Memorial 09:15 β†’ Return 12:00 (NatWest)
β™Ώ Dorchester Disabled Club
πŸ“… Second Friday (14 Nov)
πŸš— Home collection 09:30 (ish) β†’ Return 12:30 (Library)
πŸ’· Β£5 return
πŸ“ž Contact Di Minty 07833 995274
πŸš— COUNTRY CARS VOLUNTEER SERVICE
Helping elderly & vulnerable residents reach:
πŸ₯ GP β€’ Hospital β€’ Dentist β€’ Optician β€’ Vaccinations
πŸ“ž Book with 24 hrs notice: 07833 074423
πŸ’· 50p per mile
πŸ’› Volunteer drivers needed!
If you can spare an hour occasionally, please contact:
πŸ‘‰ Marlene D’Allen 07564 244602
Lifts only when you’re available – expenses reimbursed and passengers so grateful.
⚠️ Unable to transport wheelchair users who cannot mobilise independently.
Alternative: Bob’s Taxis 01305 269500 (24 hrs notice – not part of scheme)
πŸš• Also available locally: πŸ“ž Collected by Chrissie – 07359 028843
This information may be subject to change

Travel News

/in /by
TRAVEL NEWS
Road Closure -Dorchester
Prince of Wales Road from junction with South Walks Road for 160m
Monday 27 Oct – Friday 31st Oct 9am -4pm only
Buses will replace trains on:
15 & 16 Nov between B’th & Dor S’th
17 & 21 Nov between Poole & Dor S’th
Allow extra time & check before travelling.

Public Meeting – Dorset Council Local Plan

/in /by

🌟 Have Your Say on Dorset’s Future! 🌟

πŸ‘₯ Public Meeting – Dorset Council Local Plan
πŸ—“ Thursday 25th September
πŸ•‘ 6.30pm
πŸ“ Maiden Newton Village Hall

Your Dorset Council ward councillor and portfolio holders will be there – ready to listen, answer questions, and hear your views.

This is your community, your voice, your future. Don’t miss the chance to get involved!

πŸ“Œ The Local Plan consultation is open now – and closes on 13th October.

πŸ‘‰ Everyone is welcome – spread the word!