Charlton Kings Parish Council: Our Year in Review 2023/24

Afromthe ChairofCharlton KingsParishCouncil, JanHoneywill welcome

ourpositiveresponsetoour firstAnnualReviewlastyear wasbothheartwarmingand encouraging. Ihopeyou will enjoyreading aboutour work andachievementsonyour behalf sincethen.

Iamveryproud to lead our team of dedicatedparish councillors,all of whom give theirtimeand effort freelyto make apositivedifferenceto lifeinour localcommunity. None of this wouldbe possiblewithout our

fantastic, hardworkingstaff to support ourprojectsand keep thebusinessofthe Councilrunning smoothly.

OurSummer, Autumn andChristmas Fayres on Grange Field andChurchPiece have growninpopularityand we welcomed more people than ever before in 2023 to enjoythe activities andentertainment.These occasionsare agreat opportunity forfamiliestomeet with friendsand neighbours in arelaxed andfriendlyatmosphere. Youcan also chat to parish councillors andlet us know your perspectiveonlifeinCharlton Kings.

Taking care of young people in thepost-Covidperiodhas been anationwideproblem,and we have dedicatedmuchtime, effort andthought to provisionfor them.Our YouthTeam, in partnershipwithvarious professional organisations, has offereda series of targeted activities includingfootball, cricket, basketball, artand danceclasses, forest school,cooking, the listgoeson. Theseall happenedduringthe school summer holidays, plus we addedsomespecial arrangements for childrenofall ages in theEasterbreak.These activities will be repeated andenhancedthisyear. Look outfor posterson notice boards,the websiteand social mediafor thelatest news.

In theearly months of 2024, we contracted aprofessional youthworkertoengagewithyoung people both at school and in areaswhere they spendmuchoftheir time,toassess their needs. We will actuponthe advice received andwill keep you

informed of progress.

Ourworkonsustainabilityand care forthe environmenthas been highlighted this year by thesuccessful launchofthe ‘Library of Things’and youcan seemoreabout this in our report in this newspaper. Ledbyour CK FuturesTeam, this valuable resource,freeatthe pointofuse,isa firstin Gloucestershireand hasbeen very well received.

Ourteamisalsodelighted to be closelyassociated with ‘Planted’, thenew centre forcommunity activities andvegan café at Sixways. Regularworkshops andtalks areheld, andwe look forwardtoseeing youthere.

Workingwiththe Cotswold Wardens, severalofour councillors have facilitated activities on Ravensgate Commonand the Cotswold Escarpment.You will have seen agrowing collection of ourown walkingmaps, whichbring much pleasure to membersofour community.Development andnaturefriendly planting in Grange Fieldisalsonow goingonapace.The maintenanceofSt. Mary’s Churchyard,the introduction of a wildflower area andrepairs to thestone walls have been appreciatedbymanywho visit. In addition,wehavebeenvery busy acting as astatutory consultee on behalf of residentson planning androadrelated matters

Ourworking groups meet to pool ideasand plan activities.We enjoyour work together andare hoping to find some more people to join us over thenextfew months.All youneed to be asuccessful parish councillorisa fewhours to spareand some passion forsharing your expertise, skills andknowledge with ourvibrant Charlton Kingscommunity.Justcontact our office at anytimeand my colleaguesand Iwill be very pleased to chat over acoffeeand tell youmoreabout lifeasa parish councillor.

Finally,pleasecompleteour quicksurveyonpage31; it only takesa minute!Youropinion is keytoour future plans.

Thankyou forreading

Jan

Thecouncillors andstaff whomakeupCharlton KingsParishCouncil.

Hear from twocouncillors aboutwhatitisliketobea parish councillor

Find outwhich Councilhas responsibilityfor what in Charlton Kings.

Photos from theeventsthatthe Parish Council organisedin2023.

Hear from localbusinessesand groups.

Read aboutPlanted,the newcommunity hub on Sixways.

Read aboutthe initiativesthatare runningtosupport young people in Charlton Kings.

Find outmoreabout support for ourcommunity’s health andwellbeing.

Hear

localbusinessesand groups

Amap showingsomeofthe landmarks, services and businessesinCharltonKings

Read aboutCharltonKings’new LibraryofThingsand otherenvironmental communityinitiatives

TheParishCouncilhelps look afterthe networkof footpathsinCharltonKings.

Hear from localbusinessesand groups.

Read aboutwhatisbeing done to improve avaluable greenspace in Charlton Kings.

An introductiontothe Community Allotment, and informationabout ourother allotmentsites

Read aboutconservationworkonCharltonKings Common, LeckhamptonHill andRavensgate.

Find outabout theCouncil's role in thepreservation of historic places andmonuments in Charlton Kings.

Read aboutthe ParishCouncil's role when it comes to maintainingour roadsand pavements.

Read aboutthe ParishCouncil'sroleinthe planning processfor building development.

Find outabout the communityprojectsthatthe Parish Councilhas supportedthisyear.

Find outhow theParishCouncilisfunded.

Wheretoget help with common issues andhow to contactthe Parish Council.

Team Meet the

Councillors andStaff

Sophie Bishop Administration Officer

DebbieDockree Administrative Assistant

Allotments Committee

Councillors Alan Hawkins(Chair),Penny Hall, JanHoneywill, PatPalmer

charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk

Committees

Finance& GeneralPurposesCommittee

Councillors IanGosling(Chair),Raj Gandhi, Alan Hawkins, JanHoneywill, LauraLock, Duncan Munro, PatPalmer, Felicity Parnham

Audrey Rowe Communications Officer @charlton-kings-parish-council

HelenJohnston DeputyClerk & ResponsibleFinancial Officer

Planning Committee

Councillors Russell Grimshaw (Chair), Ian Gosling, Penny Hall, NedHolt, Jan Honeywill, PatPalmer

NedHolt

FelicityParnham Vice Chair

JanHoneywill Chair

PatPalmer

Duncan Munro

IanGosling

LyndaJohnson

RussellGrimshaw

HelenEvans RajGandhi

Alan Hawkins

Awaiting NewClerk

LauraLock

Penny Hall

Beinga Councillor Parish

Find outwhatmotivates localpeopletovolunteer fortheir community in Charlton Kings, andwhatitislikebeing aparishcouncillor.

ACouncillor’s Experience:Laura Lock

LastJune Itookmyyoung sontothe fayreonGrangeField.Overthe summer, my step-daughterwenttosomeofthe free activities runbythe Parish Council. It made me wonder whowas putting in thetimeand effort to benefitmyfamily, my neighbours andmycommunity.

Idecided to go alongtoa Parish Council meetingand hear what else theCouncil wasdoing.I wasamazedbythe rangeofthingstheyare involved in.

Before deciding to applyfor co-option, Ihad achatabout howmuchwould be expected of me.Havingbeen assuredI couldbalance parish councillorworkwith everyother plateI spin,I appliedfor co-optioninSeptember.

I’ve really enjoyedmyfirst sixmonths. Ihavefeltsupported by my fellowcouncillors andbeen encouraged to focusonthe areasI am particularly interested in

If you’dliketoknowmoreabout becoming acouncillor, or hear more aboutwhat we’redoing,get in touchorcomealong to ameeting. Agood Parish Council reflects itscommunity,and it’s always greattohearfrompeoplewho want to getinvolved.

ACouncillor’sExperience: NedHolt

movedtoCharltonKings in 2016 andone of my motivesfor joiningthe Parish Council in 2018 wastoget to know my localcommunity.I assumedI woulddono more than onefouryearcycle

So whyamI half waythrough my second term?I guessbecause what we do seems genuinely worthwhile,there have been some real achievements andthere’s always somethinghappening Iwould be sorry to abandon, andbecause I’ve made some genuine friends.

I’ve been able to pursue existing interests. Many of thefootpathsI nowsupervise,I’d walked before becoming acouncillor. Otherthings, likeLocal Planning,werenew. Most councillors manage to find rolesthatsuitthem.

FrequentlyAsked Questions

What experience do councillorsneed?

No priorexperienceasa councillorisnecessary.The Parish Council needspeoplewitha varietyofskills andexperience, andwants people to getinvolvedwithprojectstheyare really interested in

Is theCouncil political?

No -noneofour councillors representpolitical parties. They work together regardless of theirpersonalpolitical affiliations.

Want to find outmore about beinga parish councillor?

Howmuchtimedoesbeing aCouncillortakeup? It is very flexible.There area fewthingsevery councilloris required to do,suchasattendthe monthlyCouncil meeting, butthe amount of time youspend on Council work is up to you.

Do Councillors getpaid? No.Parishcouncillors areunpaid.

HowLocal Works Democracy

arish Councils arethefirst tier of localgovernment. Theyare comprisedofelected,unpaid councillors,a Parish Clerkand ResponsibleFinancial Officer, andadministrative staff. Decisionsare made at monthlymeetings, whichare open to thepublic. Councillors oftenworkin sub-commitees andworking groups,ona diverserange of projects- from nature andhealth, to heritage preservation, eventplanningand conservation.Councillors areencouragedtoinitiateand developprojectsand initiatives that will be beneficial to thecommunity.

Community Events

TheParishCouncil hosted threemaineventsin 2023 -the Summer Fayre, theAutumnFayre and theChristmas Fayre.

Fayre 2023 Summer

Foruptodateinformation aboutthe 2024 SummerFayre, visitwww.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/summer-fayre-2024

IntroducingPlanted: Supporting the andBoosting Community Sustainability

lanted,aninnovativecommunity initiative by local environmentalcharity Vision 21, is anot-for-profitproject supported by volunteers. It aims to bringtogetherlocal partners to create alivelyhub forthe community,fostering newideas rooted in sustainabilityand community spirit

Situated at 197 London Road,CharltonKings,Planted is a welcomingspace featuringa plant-basedcafé, avolunteer-run loosefoodrefillery,and aminiart gallery.Itservesasa community hub forvarious events such as talks, groups, repairs, swaps, andmore.

Vision 21, aleading climatecharity with a30-yearlegacy, spearheads initiativeslikeReclaim,RepairCafes,and community growingprojectstoaddressclimate challenges throughsustainability, education, andcommunity engagement.The charity'soffice hasrelocated to Planted, underscoringits commitmenttothe localcommunity

Planted'ssustainabilitymission is supported by Charlton Kings Parish Counciland itsCKFutures team,showcasinga dedication to localempowerment andsustainabilityefforts within theparish.

Beyond environmentalimpact, Plantedfocuses on holistic community wellbeing by offering diverseactivitiestocombat social isolation, promotehealthand wellness, andnurture creativity.Withongoing renovationstoprovide craftrooms andmeetingspaces, Plantedplans to host workshops, events, andlocal groups.Partnershipswithlocal organisationsare beingfostered, andplans includehosting aCharltonKings Parish Council funded youthworkerinthe future (see page 13).

Theproject hasalready offeredvarious activities likefree warm spaces,energysavingadvice, clothesswaps,cooking workshops, andsustainabilitynetworkinggroups. Future plans includebook clubs, nature,poetry, craftgroups, andmore.

View theParishCouncil ‘What’son’ calendar to seesomeofthe events happening at Planted.

PlantedCommunity Hub

Apartnership betweenCharlton KingsParishCouncil andcharity

Vision 21 hascreated an exciting opportunity to offerfreeevents andservicesatPlanted,a new community spaceonSixways

Volunteersplaya crucialroleinPlanted's day-to-day operations,renovationefforts, andmanagement. Their dedication reflects thecollectivevisionand collaborative spirit behind Planted'smission.

In conclusion,Planted is notjusta community projectbut a symbol of collectivevisionand action towardsa sustainable future.Withsupport from Charlton KingsParishCouncil, partners,and volunteers, Planted aims to cultivatea vibrant, sustainablefuturefor Charlton Kings. Follow@PlantedCKon Facebook forupdates andvisit 197 London Road,Charlton Kings, to experience this community spacefirsthand.Email plantedck@gmail.comfor enquiries.

Wanttoget involved?

Thereare lots of ways to be apartofPlanted.Whether you fancydoing abit of volunteeringinthe cafe andrefillery,or have an idea foranevent or initiative that wouldbenefit the community,oryou wouldjustliketohirea room

Anyway youget involved supportsthe Charlton Kings community.Email plantedck@gmail.comtostart the conversation

CK Parish Project Focus

Councillors Jan Honeywill, Lynda Johnson, Raj Gandhi, Felicity Parnham and Helen Evans

Funding: Howdoesitwork? Planted

Planted is runona not-for-profit basis, andisfundedthrough acombination of support andcontributions from various sources:

Vision 21

Localenvironmental charityVision21providesfoundationalsupport forthe Plantedproject.Theyalsosourcefundingfroma varietyofgrant schemes, andcrowdfund on aregular basis.

RevenueGeneration

Plantedgenerates revenue throughactivitiessuchasthe café, theloosefood 'refillery,' artsales,venue hire,and potential future initiativeslikepop-upkitchen days.These revenue streamshelpsustain theproject andfundongoing operations, renovations, andcommunity events.

Charlton KingsParishCouncil

Plantedreceivesongoing support andfunding from Charlton KingsParishCouncil andits CK Futuresteam. This support has been instrumental in bringing theproject to life, highlighting itsdedicationtoempoweringlocal initiativesand promoting sustainabilitywithinthe community.

Volunteer Support

Plantedissupported by passionatevolunteers. Thesevolunteers play avital role in theday-to-dayoperations, management,and renovation effortsofthe project. Theirdedicationhelps reduce operationalcosts andcontributes to theoverall success of Planted. Thankyou formakinga difference!

Partnerships andCollaborations

Plantedfosters partnerships with localorganisations, businesses, andindividuals.These collaborationsmay involve fundingcontributions,in-kind donations, or shared resources that support Planted'smission andactivities.

Overall, Planted'sfundingmodel reflects acollaborative effort involvingcommunity engagement,volunteerism, local government support,partnerships, andrevenue-generatingactivitiesalignedwithits mission of sustainabilityand community wellbeing.

Cafe,Refillery &Art at

Planted

Poco Culina@ Plantedoffers avariety of dishes with Eastern-inspiredflavors.Local chef Andy Tibbs hascreated asustainable,plant-based menu forthe volunteer-supported café.Every meal notonlypromoteswellbeing butalsosupportsour planet.Heusesorganic andlocally sourcedingredients whenever possibleand deliverslocally by bicycle. Andy contributes towardscorePlanted running costsand donates10% of café earnings back into theproject Visitwww.pococulina.co.uk formoreinformation abouthis food.

Planted’snot-for-profitloosefood "refillery"ismanaged by dedicatedvolunteersfor Vision 21, andany proceedssupport theproject.Takeyourcontainersand join us in reducing waste andpromoting sustainablepractices.

Plantedalsosupportslocal creativity throughits craftroom,art gallery,and planned workshopsand craftfairs.Commission from artand greetingcardsales andvenue hire contributesbacktothe project.

@charlton-kings-parish-council

ASummerofFun forthe of Charlton Kings Children

verthe last year,councillors andstaff at Charlton KingsParishCouncil have continuedtobuild on theircommitmentto providefreeholiday activity programmesfor young people in Charlton Kings. In thesummerof2023, we used resourcesfrom preceptmoniestosponsor 14 localcommunity youthleaders in running atotal of 42 activity sessions, includingfootball, cricket, golf,art,music,dance,needlecraft,cookery, nature,healthand fitness. Over 400 childrensigneduptotakepart.

Forupdates on ourAugust2024 programme,gotowww.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/local-events

Amazingopportunity&much appreciated

Agreatideatojustgetatasteofanactivity

Feedback from parents

Itwasablast!Allwhocamewereengaged, positive&enthusiastic

Formyboystohavea coupleofmorning’s entertainmentmadesucha difference

Bringing together with teaand cake youngand old

orking with localschools in partnership is very importanttothe Parish Council, and oneofthe highlights of November2023 was joiningwithBalcarras Academy students to hold ‘The BigTea Party’ forseniorcitizens.

More than 90 people attended andwere treated by theyoung people to tea, homemade cakes, musicand,importantly, conversation

TheBigTeaPartywasagreatinitiative. Intergenerationalmixingissomethingwearekeento encouragemoreofandwelookforwardtosupporting futureendeavours

Sandra Henley,Chair of theSenior Citizens WelfareCommittee

Ruby, 18 yrs

Anamazingeventthatbrought togethertheCharltonKings communityandallowedthemtomeet newpeople,andseeoldfriends

Itfeltverynicetobe abletogivesomething backtothecommunity

Hebe, 17 yrs

It’snotoftenIgettomeet youngpeople-theywereso attentiveandtalented.Ihope they’llmakeitanannualevent

Diane When’sthenextone??!!

Jean

n2023, theefforts of ourYouth WorkingGroup focusedonunderstanding howto betterallocate resourcestowards youthengagementwithinCharltonKings.This involved talkingtovarious youthworkproviders across Gloucestershiretogain insights.Itbecameevident that effectiveyouth provisionhingesonactivelylistening to theperspectivesofyoung people andtheir supporters.

Meet , Charlton Kings’ NewYouth Worker Noah

I TConsequently,wetaskedThe Door,a youthworkcharity,withcraftinga comprehensiveYouth Community Profile tailoredtoour area.Thisprofile will serve as aroadmap forour endeavours in 2024/25.

TheParishCouncil is grateful forthe fundingsupport provided by Gloucestershire CountyCouncil’s'BuildBackBetter' CouncillorScheme, championed by local councillors Matt Babbage andPaulBaker.Weextendour sincereappreciation to them fortheir endorsementand assistance in this initiative.

Formoredetails,visit www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/our-road-map-for-the-future

Scores BigwithWeeklyYouth Sessionsand NewIndoorGear Jam Basketball Collective Supporting :A Path Forward YoungPeople

The JAMBasketballCollectivehas been hostinglivelyFridayevening basketball sessionsonthe Multi-UseGames Area (MUGA)for youngstersall year long.

With theguidanceofYouth Worker RichardOpioand adedicated team of seasoned volunteers, thesesessions have seen up to 20 enthusiastic teenagersattendingeachweek

Exciting news this year as theCouncil hasinvestedina state-of-the-art mobile basketball unitdesignedfor indoor use, ensuring that theactionpacked sessions can continue throughout thewintermonths with ease

he Parish Council is delighted to introduceNoahBeard,a Community YouthWorker, to theCharltonKings community!

Noah,employedbythe Stroud-based charityThe Door,has partneredwithus on acontractual basistoconduct research on theneedsand aspirations of young people throughout theparish.

Charlton Kings Youth Taskforce

The Parish Council is akey partnerin thepoliceled CK YouthTaskforce,which meetsquarterly in abid to improve communication,solve problems andto shareinformation andideas on early intervention initiativesfor young people

TheTaskforce brings together more than 20 community partners from our neighbourhood policingteam, senior schools, churches,clubs,charities,and youthactivityproviders.

Visitwww.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/ck-youth

An ongoingproject to support children andyoung people in Charlton Kings

CK Parish Project Focus

Working Group: Pat Palmer, Jan Honeywill, Lynda Johnson, Raj Gandhi

Empowering : ACollaborative Initiative DigitalSafety

nsuringonlinesafetyisparamount in today'sdigital age. Over thepasttwo years, theParishCouncil hascollaboratedwith AdultEducation Gloucestershire, DigiBus, andCharltonKings Librarytooffervarious digitalsupport coursesand occasional drop-indays. Theseinitiatives aimtoempower individualsinmaximisingtheir useoftablets or smartphoneswhile prioritising onlinesafety.

In the2023/24 period,wewitnesseda notableincrease, with 27 learners participatinginthese sessions, markinga 10-person rise compared to thepreceding year.

Excellentcourse,timewellspent, andapatient&knowledgeable courseleader

Teresa

Ifoundthecoursereallyhelpful…the downloadanduseofapps…checking unsolicitedmailforfraudorscamsand (accessing)medicalinformationonphones

Mary

Read more aboutdigital inclusionat www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/digital-inclusion

Charlton Kings

OnlineSafetyTop Tips

Choosestrongpasswords anddonot share with anyone

Don’tpublishprivate photos or messages that youdon’t want others to seeonsocial media

Neverclickonlinks or attachmentsthatyou don’trecognise,and neverrespond to phone calls asking foryourpersonalorfinancial details

Watchout forwebsitesand downloadsthat look suspicious –especially shopping bargains that seem toogood to be true they probably are!

Wellbeing Health & Directory

akea look at thelatestversion of ‘Connect’, theParishCouncil’scommunity directoryofhealth& wellbeing services & activities in Charlton Kingsand Cheltenham.

Youcan seethe directorylocally at many localvenuesacrossCharltonKings,including medicalcentres,pharmacies, churches, cafesand businesses.

If youwould likeyourown hard copy,pop into theParishCouncil office on Church Piece, or telephone 01242 250087.

Youcan read thedirectory online:www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/uploads/ck-parish-council-directory-issue-20-2024-web.pdf

Health & Wellbeing

Focusing on thementaland physical health of all membersofthe Charlton Kingscommunity

Councillors Jan Honeywill, Raj Gandhi, Lynda Johnson &Pat Palmer, & Deputy Clerk Helen Johnston

Charlton KingsResidents Embrace LibraryofThings Initiative

Apilotlending projectled by apartnership of local organisationsishelping localresidents to save moneyand reduce greenhousegas emissions.

In abid to combat climatechangeand promotesustainable living, thePlanetCheltenhamproject conducteda survey in 2021 amongCheltenhamresidents to gaugeinterestin environmentalinitiatives.Among theideas proposed,the conceptofa 'library of things'garneredsignificant support, with 58% of respondentsexpressing interest.

Thepremise behind the'libraryofthings' is simple:rather than purchasing everyday itemsand tools, residentscan borrowthemasneeded,akintoborrowing booksfroma traditionallibrary.A collaborative effort between GloucestershireLibraries,CKFutures,Vision21and Planet Cheltenhamled to thedevelopment of apilotproject in Charlton Kings.

With start-up fundingprovidedbyCharltonKings Parish Council andGloucestershire CountyCouncil, alongwith generous donationsfromlocal residents, thelibrary of things opened itsdoorsinOctober 2023.

Operated outofthe Charlton KingsLibrary at Church Piece, theproject allows memberstoborrowitems rangingfrom householdappliances to DIYtools. Theimpactofthe pilot projectoverthe firstfourmonthsofoperation hasbeen analysed,revealinga positive response from thecommunity.

CK Futures

Basictoolkits

Carpet cleaner

Corded powerdrill

Cordless hedgecutter

Easyedgestrimmer

Garden gazebo

Pressure washer

Sewing machine

Window vacuum

More itemsare beingadded soon...

Despitethe absenceofdetailedcarbonfootprintassessments, theproject's environmentalbenefitsare evident. Lendingand sharingprojectslikethe library of things have demonstrated positive social impacts, fosteringcommunity connectedness andcohesionamong residents.

Lookingahead,partnersinvolvedinthe projectare exploring avenuesfor expansion, includingthe addition of more items basedonresidentfeedback,reservation systems, and educationalinitiatives.Plans forpromoting theproject throughsocialmedia,events, andengagementwithlocal leadersare also underway.

Read more www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/library-of-things

Frequently AskedQuestions

What is aLibrary of Things?

It’s just like borrowing abookfromthe library, except insteadofa book youcan borrowhandy items, like steamcleaners, DIYtools or asewingmachine!

Whereisit?

At theCharltonKings LibraryonChurchPiece

HowdoI borrowanitem?

Youjustneedtobea librarymember. When youvisit thelibrary youwillsee adisplay with recycled DVD casesshowing whichitems areavailable to borrow. Take theappropriate case to thedesk(with your membership card at theready), andyouritemwill be broughtout to you. Youcan borrow itemsfor 7days.

Howmuchdoesitcost?

It is currentlycompletelyfree.

@charlton_kings_parish_council

@charltonkingsparish

@charlton-kings-parish-council

OutonPatrol

Toad

KFutures jointleadcouncillorHelen Evansand Parish Council team member DebbieDockree recently joined GloucestershireToads on Roads, agroup of local volunteersdedicated to protecting ouramphibian friends, outonpatrol. These volunteersbrave theelementsand thebusytrafficalong theA40 near Charlton Kingstoensurethe safe passage of toads, frogs, andnewts as they migrateto DowdeswellReservoir forbreeding. Last year,their effortssaved an impressive 199 toadsfrombeing harmed by passing vehicles.

On achilly eveninginFebruary, equippedwithhighvisibilityjackets,flashlights,and buckets, they joined Gayle, Rich,Georgie,and Vickyat6pm to walk from Koloshito theDowdeswelljunction, carefully scanning thewoodland areasfor anysigns of toad activity.Itisa critical time of year,asmaletoads emerge from hibernationand venturetowards thereservoir,often lingering dangerouslyclose to theroadsidein search of mates.

In aworld of ever-increasingdangertobiodiversityinthe UK,these patrolsforma vitalpartofthe networkofvolunteerswho help to stem thedestruction of wild animal populations.

DowdeswellToadPatrolLeadNickSmith shared histhoughtsonthe project:

It is extremelysatisfyingknowing that everytoadand other amphibianthatyou save is helpingtokeep theirspecies alive

FollowGloucestershire ToadsonRoads on Facebook @GloucToR

Charlton Kings Plastic-Free

C

harltonKings resident CarolFebry is theCommunity Lead forPlastic-Free Cheltenham

Sheruns events andinitiatives to supportCharltonKings businessesto reduce plasticuse.FollowPlastic-Free CheltenhamonFacebook formore information.

Anotherlocal resident is helping businessestojoina ‘Bring Your Own Cup’ initiative.Visit @sustainablestepschelt on Instagramto find outmore.

Follow Plastic-Free Cheltenham on Facebook

@plasticfree cheltenham

Follow Sustainable Stepson Instagram @sustainable stepschelt

Losing

Podcast

Didyou know that thereare now24 episodes of theLosingOur Cool podcast, featuringinspiring storiesfrom localpeoplewho aremakingchanges andfinding amoresustainable wayto live?

Topics discussedinclude:

Connecting with Nature

GreenHomeRenovations

TheNatureofCharltonKings

The5 Ps of Gardening

Reducing Food Waste

CommunityAction

Sustainable Food Shopping

TheVital Role of Trees

ClimateAnxiety Electric Solutions

Listen to thepodcast on theParish Council website

Listen now

www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk /blogs-and-podcasts

Sustainability Talks

CK Futuresoften runs talks, workshops andother events

Visit

www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk /upcoming-ck-futures-talks

ExploreCharlton Kings: Discover the Parish’s

Paths forAll

The Council hasproduceda numberofguidedwalkleaflets. Thesecan be obtained from theParishOffice (ordownloadeddirectlyfromthe website).They includebothshort strolls around thevillage andlongerrambles outintothe Area of OutstandingNatural Beauty.

Thereare currently sixurban andseven ruralwalks in thecollection. Councillors have oneortwo more routes to addtothe collectionin2024. They then hope to conclude with a‘Charlton King’s Challenge’,coveringa longer routeright around therural boundary of theParish. Itsproductionwill depend on councillors’fitness however.

Downloadthe maps: www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/walking-maps-collection

uchofthe maintenanceofour footpathsiscarried outbythe wonderfulCotswoldWardens,but the Council have theirown groupof volunteerstoo. While theWardens carry outgenuinely heavywork(if you find gatesupgradedortricky stretchesfilledwithstonesyou should credit theWardens), the Council’steamworkoncutting back undergrowth,hedges, andsoon.

Please consider joiningthe volunteers if youenjoy localwalks.There is no commitmenttoany particular dates, andthe work partiesallowtimefor coffeebreaks. Thegroup have even manageda pubevening with nota pair of secateursinsight.If interested,pleasecontact Cllr Ian GoslingorCllr NedHolt.

ned.holt@charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk ian.gosling@charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk

he team will continue to tryand see that allpaths,inthe centre of theParish andinthe countryside,are maintained to ahighstandard. They will also work with GloucestershireCountyCouncil to tryand improvethemwhere possible, in particular by replacingsomestileswith kissing gatestoimprove access.

As we said,Paths forAll!

Thereare 70 officialrightsofway in Charlton KingsParish

As stewards of Public Rights of Wayin Charlton Kings, theteamworktomaintain, upkeep andenhance themanypaths around

Work Starts on Grange Field Makeover for Nature C

harltonKings Parish Council hasembarkedona projectto revamp Grange Field, thanks to fundingfromthe GloucestershireCountyCouncil Build Back BetterFund. With thenecessary resourcessecured,the team have begun implementing theirplan.

Theirobjective?Tocultivate anatural havenwithinthe southern portionofthe field, focusing on native plantspecies to enhancewildlifehabitatsand biodiversity.

Inclusivityiskey forCharltonKings Parish Council, as it aims to engage thecommunity in itsefforts. It hassharedits projectplans at theAutumnFayre andonline, receiving positive feedback from residents.

Areyou awhizz with awheelbarrow, handywitha hammer, or skilledwith aspade?Orare youjusthappy to help out? Just emailusand we will be in touchtodiscuss howyou canhelp create andlookafter thenew nature garden in Grange Field.

Email pat.palmer@charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk

Progress is alreadyunderway, with contractsinplace forthe construction of awinding path,and threesilver birchtrees having been plantedrecently.

Future tasksinclude planting ahedge around theAir Training Corpshut andestablishing shrubbelts anddeadhedgesalong theperimeter fence, allcontributingtothe creation of a thriving ecosystem. Lookingahead,the Parish Council is enthusiastic aboutadditional projects in thepipelineand welcomes community participation.

Whetheryou area gardeningenthusiast or simply enjoy outdoor activities,there is an opportunity to getinvolved.

CCTV on Grange Field

Residents near Grange Fieldhavelongvoicedworries about rising levels of anti-socialbehaviour in theircommunity.Ina bidtoenhancesafetyand security,CharltonKings Parish Council hasfunded andinstalled twoCCTVcameras on the KingsHall.

Thesecameras aimtoact as adeterrent againstcriminal activities andinstances of anti-socialbehaviour.Furthermore, they will assist lawenforcement in gatheringevidencerelated to reported incidentswithinthe vicinity of Grange Field.

TheParishCouncil leases Grange FieldfromCheltenhamBorough Council, allowing improvements to be made forthe community

Cultivating Community: CharltonKings

CommunityAllotment

na quietcornerofCharltonKings liesa humbleyet cherishedspace knownasthe Charlton KingsCommunity Allotment. Forthe past threeyears,thisunassuming patchof land hasservedasa gatheringplace forlocalseager to learn aboutgardening andconnect with theirneighbours.

What once wasanovergrown plot hasbeen transformedinto aproductivegarden, thanks to thededicationofa team of volunteers. Together,theyworkeddiligentlytoclear theland andplant an assortment of fruits,vegetables, andherbs.It's asimpleendeavour,but onethathas broughtjoy and satisfaction to thoseinvolved.

Beyond itsagriculturalpursuits, theCharltonKings Community Allotmentalsoboastsareas dedicatedtowildlife, includinginsecthabitatsand apeacefulpond. Thesefeatures providea welcomerefugefor localfauna andoffervisitors theopportunity to observeand appreciate thenatural world.

Oneofthe hallmarks of theallotmentisits inclusive atmosphere.Whether you're an experiencedgardenerora complete novice,there's somethingherefor everyone. Familiesare encouraged to join in thefun, and accommodations have been made to ensure that thespace is accessibletoindividuals with mobilitychallenges

Joiningthe allotmentisfreeofcharge. Toolsand seedsare provided,makingiteasyfor newcomerstoget started. It's a community-driveninitiative, fuelledbya shared passion for gardeningand adesiretofosterconnections within the neighbourhood.

So,ifyou'relookingfor awelcoming spacewhere youcan learntogrowyourown food andmeet newfriends alongthe way, look no furtherthanthe Charlton KingsCommunity Allotment.

Come join us as we cultivatebothcrops andcommunity spirit!

For more informationortoget involved. Join theCommunity AllotmentFacebookGroup @charltonkingscommunityallotment or emailIzzyon CKcommunityallotment@gmail.com

Didyou know?

Of thefiveallotmentsites in Charlton Kings, threeare located near theBeechesarea, andtwo aresituatedbetween GreenwayLaneand Ryeworth Road.There are250 plotsin total.

Formoreinformation aboutallotments andhow to applytoget one, visit www.bit.ly/CKAllotments or usethe QR code

TheParishCouncil's five allotmentsites offeran opportunity forlocal residentstogrowtheir own fruitand vegetables

Allotments Committee &Staff: Penny Hall, Al Hawkins, Jan Honeywill, PatPalmer, Helen Johnston &Debbie Dockree

RestoringCheltenham’sEscarpment Project

he collaborative effort between Charlton KingsParish Council, Cheltenham BoroughCouncil, andthe Friendsof Charlton KingsCommonand LeckhamptonHill (FOLK),known as theRestoring Cheltenham’sEscarpmentGrasslands Project(RCEG), wasinitiated in 2021. This partnership secureda grantof£175,000 from National Grid under their LandscapeEnhancementInitiative.

Theprimary objectiveofthe RCEG projectistoenhance the landscape, biodiversity,archaeology,and public access and enjoymentwithinthe area spanning from theDevil's Chimney, Charlton KingsCommon, to Ravensgate Common. In arecentdevelopment,anadditional £26,000 of top-up fundinghas been successfully obtained,enablingthe extensionofthe project'sworkprogramme into the upcoming year.Readmoreabout theproject on thefollowing pages.

on Charlton Kings Common andLeckhamptonHill Grasslands

he conservation programme at Charlton KingsCommonand LeckhamptonHill facesongoing challenges,particularlywithgorse removaldue to thesteep terrain Despitethis, significantprogresshas been made this year,enhancing grassland biodiversity throughannualwintergrazing.

Effortsalsoextendedtothe removalofnon-nativelarch trees andthe management of diseased ashtrees,prioritisingthe conservation of veteranspecimens. Regrettably, only ahandful of ashtrees couldbesaved,withyounger successors identified forfuturesustainability.

Additionally,restoration work on drystone walls complementsenhancementsto theCotswoldWay,enriching theexperienceofthe escarpment's breathtaking views. While theinitial wallingtargethas been met, ongoingworkwill utilisestone acquired during theproject

TheFriends of LeckhamptonHill andCharltonKings Common(FOLK)group invites newvolunteersand is actively seekingindividuals interested in joiningits Management Committeetosupport theseconservationefforts.

Lead Councillors

Duncan Munro& Al Hawkins

TheParishCouncil is thecustodian of Ravensgate Common, andweworkwithCheltenhamBorough Council, Cotswold Landscape,and FriendsofLeckhampton Hill andCharltonKings Common,toprotect and enhancethisprecioushabitat

www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/restoring-cheltenhams-escarpment

LocalCommunity &ParishCouncil Improves Ravensgate Common

na collaborative effort,the Parish Council, alongwith neighbours,partners, andvolunteers, hasbeen diligently workingtoenhance Ravensgate Common. Over thepastyear, variousinitiatives have been undertakentopreserveand improvethischerished habitat.

Effortshavefocused on taskssuchasthe removalofgorse to aidinthe recovery of species-rich grasslands -a combination of 'Robomowing' andvolunteer work partieshavebeen successful in this.Additionally,cattlegrazing hasbeen introduced,withthe useofinnovative'No Fence' collars to facilitatethe movement of cattle across theCommonwithout theneedfor temporaryfencing

Improvements have also been made to thepathway leading from theCommontoTimbercombe Wood,including the replacementoftop gatesand postsbythe Cotswold Wardens, allowing forbetteraccess to thelane.

Safety measures have been implementedfor ashtrees along thelanetoaddress concerns aboutash die-back disease.

Seethe mapinthe middle pages forthe location of Ravensgate Whereis Ravensgate Common?

Some trees have been felled, while others have been pollarded in thehopeofpromoting theirsurvival. Positive signsofregenerationare alreadyevident,withanash tree felledlastyearshowing signsofrenewed life.

Thanks to fundingfromCheltenhamBorough Council's Coronation Grantfund,a former pond that hadsilted up over theyears hasbeen re-established. This newhabitat is expected to be enjoyedbywalkers,runners,and riders in the area.Plans arealsounderwaytoreinforce a25-meter section of thetrack with stonethissummertoimprove thepath surface.

Adedicated groupofvolunteerswitha keen interest and knowledgeofthe Commonmeetsbiannually.Those interested in participatinginvolunteer work partiesorjoining thegroup areencouragedtocontact theParishOffice.

Overall, thecollectiveeffortsofthe community have resulted in tangible improvements to Ravensgate Common, ensuring itspreservationfor theCharltonKings Community.

Didyou know?

Theareaofgrazed Common is some 11 hectares which includes about9 hectares of grassland and2 hectares of scatteredscrub.

Ravensgate Common is a‘Key Wildlife Site’- oneof themostimportant biodiversity hotspots in Gloucestershire

TheCommon's perimeteris3,000 metres long

With access comes responsibility

Followthe Countryside Code:Carefor nature,giveall animalsplentyofspace,enjoy your experiencesand leave no traceofyourvisit

St.Mary’sProject Flourishes with LocalSupport Wildflower

Lastsummer, Charlton KingsParishCouncil secureda Coronation GrantfromCheltenhamBorough Council to create awildflowerareainSt. Mary’s Churchyard,withguidancefrom theGloucestershire Wildlife Trustand CotswoldsNational Landscape.

In October, childrenfromCharltonKings Junior School pitched in by planting seedsand bulbs, contributing to theproject's success.

TheParishCouncil team arethankfulfor thesupport from St Mary’s andCheltenhamBorough Council, as well as thehard work of theCharltonKings Junior School pupils.The project's collaborative effortshaveenhancedthe localenvironment, fosteringcommunity engagement andenvironmental stewardship. Well done all!

Preserving Wall MaintenanceUpdate Churchyard

Historic Trees in St.Mary’s Churchyard

Weare fortunatethat, when thechurchyard wasextended, ourVictorian ancestorsplanted severalinteresting speciesof tree, whichvisitorscan enjoytoday.

Over thepastfouryears,the Council hasundertakena programme of tree work to ensure that allthe trees areina conditiontobeenjoyed formanyyears to come.Thisyear thered cedar, estimatedtobe150 yearsold,has been the main focusofattention.

Youcan download aSelf-Guided Tree Walk at www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/st-marys-tree-trail

LastSpring, theParishCouncil embarked on aprogramme of maintenanceand repair of theperimeter walls,starting with HorsefairStreet.The work on NewStreet andChurch Street is duetobecompleted this year,along with repairsto thelychgate, donatedtothe church to commemorate those whodiedinthe FirstWorld War.

Lead Councillor

Duncan Munro

Requestfor Safety Review:A40 ExtensionProposal SpeedLimit

ollowing Charlton KingsParishCouncil’seffortstomake thetemporary 40mph speed limit on theA40 permanent, theCouncil is nowpushing fora comprehensivesafety review of theroadsection extendingeastwards from theend of the30mph zone.Withsupport from localcouncillors,the Council hasgatheredevidencefromresidents and businesses, includinganonlineconsultation, highlightingthe urgent need forsafetyimprovements.

There'sa growingrecognition that this road segmentis evolving in itscharacter andusage,posingrisks to vulnerable road usersdue to faster-movingtraffic.

TheParishCouncil hasformally requesteda review from the GloucestershireCountyCouncil Road Safety Team

Speedwatch on London Road

he recent reinstatementofthe 60mph speed limit outsideCharlton Kingshas raised localconcernsabout vehiclespeedswhenenteringorleaving the30mph zone

In response,CharltonKings Parish Council successfully appliedfor the installation of an Autospeedwatch camera near theBPService station throughthe CountyCommunity SpeedwatchInitiative.

Theprimary aimistoencourage better driver behaviour, with themost extremespeedersreceiving warning letters from lawenforcement.Initial data revealsthatapproximatelyhalfof allvehiclesare exceedingthe 30mph limit,with15% surpassing 36mph.This data will inform thesafetyassessment forthe A40submission.

Roadsand Pavements

We liaisewithGloucestershire Highways on aquarterly basistoshare information andhighlight concerns that have been raised by,orwhich impact on,residents of Charlton Kings

News from theParish Committee Planning

The Parish CouncilPlanningCommitteeheld25meetings in public in 2023, reviewing171 Planning Applications,objecting to 17 of them andrequestingthatfourofthembetaken to Cheltenham BoroughCouncil’sPlanning Committee. Of those 17 objections,sofar threehavebeen permitted, four refused, four withdrawnand threetaken to CheltenhamBorough Council’sPlanningCommittee.

Notable/controversialapplications included a5Gtelecoms mast andcabinetstoGlenfallWay,storage containers on Grange Field, theold NISA site on CirencesterRoadand a detailedapplicationfor Oakley Farm

Except forapplications within theCotswolds National Landscape(Area of OutstandingNatural Beauty), National Planning Policydictatesthatthere is apresumption in favour of development. Applications canonlybeobjectedtoonvalid planning grounds. Forexample,while theproposed5G telecoms mast on Glenfall Wayattracted widespread concerns, National Policyspecifically states that health concerns arenot a validreasontoobjecttosuchanapplication. TheCommittee didhowever object to theapplicationoverthe impact it would have hadonhighway visibilityfor vehicles pullingout of CarisbrookeDrive,withvisibilityalready restricted by thecurve of theroadand theimpressive road side trees

Theapplicationfor storagecontainersonGrangeField was unusual, in that theapplicantdid notknowthatthe area is leased to theParishCouncil andthe planning applicationwas thefirst knowledgethe Council hadofthe proposal.

Common Planning Concerns

Oneofthe most commonconcernsaroundextensionsand loft conversionsisoverlookingand alossofprivacy from proposed newwindows to existing surroundingresidents.However, national guidance is that newwindows furtherthan20m from neighbouring properties’windows aredeemed nottoresultin alossofprivacy.The Committeedoesalwayslooktomakethis assessmentwhenconsidering applications forextensionsand loft conversions. If thelocationofneighbours’ windowsare not evidentfromthe application, theCommitteewill requestthat this is checked.

Workstotrees,eitherinone of thethree conservation areas, or with Tree Preservation Orders on them,are also common applications,and theCommitteewill look to seeiftrees canbe managed/cutbackinpreferencetobeing removedifpossible. We areveryfortunate in Charlton Kingsinhavingthe support of very dedicatedTreeOfficersatCheltenhamBorough Council who, while beingpragmatic,are genuinely passionateabout conserving andprotectingspecimentrees forour,and future generations, enjoyment.

Frequently AskedQuestions

What is Planning?

Planning exists to balancethe rights of aproperty ownertodevelop apropertywiththe impact that mayhaveonneighboursand widersociety.

WhoDecides?

In Charlton Kings, Cheltenham BoroughCouncil (CBC) is thePlanningAuthority whichdecides on (in planning parlance,'determines') an application. CBC hasanobligationtoconsult otherbodiessuchas Charlton KingsParishCouncil.

When Does thePlanning CommitteeMeet?

ThePlanning Committeemeetsfortnightly.Visit www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/council-meetings formoreinformation.

Charlton KingsParishCouncil’s Planning Committee meetsfortnightly,todiscuss and consider,inpublic, everyapplicationinCharlton Kings.

LeadCouncillor Russell Grimshaw

Community Grants

CharltonKings Parish Council is dedicatedtosupportingcommunity initiatives. With acommitmenttobenefitingasmany people as possiblewithinthe community,the council sets asidea sumofmoney each year specifically forthispurpose.The Council is pleasedtooffer this servicetolocal charities, community groups,and projects that directly benefitthe people of Charlton Kings.

Grantapplications arewelcomedfromApril to February,providing ampleopportunityfor community memberstoseek fundingfor theirprojects. Additionally,the Councilencouragesapplications fornon-financial support, such as free meeting spaceorproject publicity, recognisingthe diverseneeds of community initiatives.

Community Grants made in 2023/24

Recipient: FriendsofGlenfallSchool

Amount: £100

Reason: TowardsGlenFestcommunity event

OtherCommunity Support

Recipient: Let’sCook With Josie

Amount: £250

Reason: Towardsanafter school cookery club forchildrenfromlow income families

Recipient: 1stCharltonKings Girls' Brigade

Amount:

£250

Reason: Towardstransport costsfor a residentialtrip

ARecipient: Charlton Park Residents' Association

Amount: £200

Reason: Towardswebsite upgrade

Recipient: Charlton KingsinBloom

Amount: £250

Reason: Towardsplantingand maintenanceofflowers around theWar Memorial in Charlton Kings

Recipient: Queen ElizabethllPark Community Group

Amount: £240

Reason: Towardspurchaseofnative bulbsfor Queen ElizabethllPark

Recipient: Charlton KingsCommunity Allotment

Amount: £90

Reason: Towardsplantsand seedsfor useonthe Community Allotment

Recipient: Holy Apostles PrimarySchool PTA

Amount: £120

Reason: Towardsthe purchase of two compostbins

charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk

swellasoffering community grants,thisyearthe Parish Council also supported community groups andinitiatives with grants andsupport from different budgets. TheCKConnect Partnershipchippedin£250 to help theCheltenhamTown Community Trustbuy pop-up goalsfor youthfootball sessions. Another£200 from theCKFutures Partnership budget went to Charlton KingsinBloom,helping them plant andmaintainflowers around theWar Memorial in Charlton Kings.

Besidescash, therewas also non-financialsupport provided. TheCharltonKings Senior Citizens WelfareCommittee, Friends of LeckhamptonHill andCharltonKings Common, Charlton KingsLocal &Family HistorySociety,Let's Cook with Josie, and Charlton KingsCreativeCrafterswereall provided with free meetingspace.Plus, theCharltonKings Localand Family HistorySociety received help with developing theironline presence.

Read more aboutCommunity Grants www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk/community-grants1

ThecommunitygrantfromtheParishCouncil,alongsidefundingfrom NHSGloucestershireIntegratedCareBoard,hasenabledmetorunan afterschoolcookeryclubforchildrenonpupilpremiumatCKJS& GlenfallPrimary.Theclasseshavebeenagreatsuccess,withthe childrenmakingeverythingfrompestopasta,frittatas,hummusand breadstickstocinnamonbunsandcookies.Manyofthemhadnever cookedbefore&theclasseshavegiventhemtheopportunitytotryfood theymaynothavetriedbefore.Feedbackfromthechildrenandtheir parents/carershasbeenamazingandnewfriendshipshavebeenmade too!

JosieHoughton, Let’sCook with JosieCIC

Howis Parish Council Funded? Charlton Kings

he primarysourceofincomefor most Parish Councils comesfromthe Precept, part of theCouncil Tax.

What is aPrecept?

TheParishCouncil receives asmall proportion of thelocal Council Tax. It does notreceive anydirectfunding from CentralGovernment. Thefunding collected pays forthe running of the Counciland theservicesitprovides.

In addition to thePrecept,the Parish Council seeksfundinginthe form of grants forsomeofits projects.Wealso receiveCommunity Infrastructure Levy payments andhavea significant amount of earned income from rental of allotments,the StantonSuite and othersources

Howisitraised?

CheltenhamBorough Council collects your Council Taxonbehalfof themselves,Police, Fire andthe Parish Councils in theirdistrict.

Councillors consider financingfutureand ongoingprojects.

It is then calculated as an amount per Council TaxBandD Property andaddedto theCouncil TaxBill of allthe dwellings within theParisharea.

Budget for 2024/25 Howisit calculated?

Thebudgetisset by theParish Councillors in January forthe following financialyearand it is at this time that

Thetotal netexpenditure in thebudgetfor 2024/25 is £241,579. This is an 13.36% increase in expenditurefrom2023/24 whichwas £213,095.

Howmuchdoesthe averagehousehold paytowards theParishCouncil?

he Precepttotal is apportionedper householdaccordingtoCouncil Tax band andispresented in termsofa Band Dequivalent.

The2024/25 Preceptof£241,579 will cost abandD household£48.18 per year or 93p perweek.Thisisanincrease of 11p perweek from last year

Increasesare neverwelcome,but we took thefollowing points into considerationbeforesettlingonthis figure:

inflationary pressure on thecosts of labour andraw materials, which impact ourcapital spending and maintenancework;

Finance

Parish Councils gettheir fundingthrough thePrecept,aswellas throughother channels such as grantfunding

inflationary pressure on thecosts of utilities; ourincreased useofspecialist consultantstohelpdeliver projects.

We believe this remainsgood valuefor theservicesweprovide andis comparable to,orlower than,many parishes of asimilar size

Parish Project Focus

FundingComparisons

CouncilsPrecept

National average –Townand Parish Councils in England

Averageofall 266Townand Parish Councils in Gloucestershire

Averageofall Town andParishCouncils in Gloucestershire that seta precept £57.81

Charlton KingsPrecept 2023/24 –Ranked133rdlargest in Gloucestershire £42.57

Charlton Kings2024/25 proposed Preceptof£48.18 ranks 105against 2023/24 precepts

GloucestershireTown& Parish Councils -top 5ranked by TaxBase, i.e. population

From Strategy to Action F

or thelastfew years. Charlton KingsParish Councilhas held a‘Strategy Day’ in October. Theaim is forCouncillors andstaff to reflect on theprogressmade in thecurrent year, discuss what furtherworkisneeded, identify lessons learnedand starttoshape thekey activities forthe next financialyearwhich begins thefollowing April.

As partofthisprocess,westart to shareour ideasand consider thebudgetneeded to make things happen. This is just the beginningofthe planning process, anda number of meetings take placetoprioritise andconsideroptions,beforea finalplanand budget aresubmitted to theFullCouncil at theend of January.

Thereare so many things to be tackledbut ourhighest priorities aretolistentoour communityand ensure theprecept is realisticand affordablefor CK residents. Also, despitebeing an active councilweare constrainedbythe number of Councillors andhavehad vacanciesfor most of theyear, whichhas an impact on howmuchcan be achieved from oneyeartothe next

Please getintouch if youwould like to join us as aCouncillorora volunteersupportingone of ourprojects. We wouldlovetohearfrom you.

Conscientiousmonitoringofincomeand expenditureoverthe yearshas enabledCharltonKings Parish Council to create a stable financialbase, from whichtodeliver projects forthe community

AQuick Question forYou...

What wouldyou like Charlton KingsParishCouncil to focuson? Tick as many as youlike.

We wouldlovetoknowwhatyou thinkthe Parish Council should be focusing on.Pleasedolet us know by answeringthisquestion. Howtoget your response to us

Youngpeople

Health &wellbeing -support forall Climate, Environment& NatureCK Futures

Preserving ourheritage(eg.stocks, warmemorial, churchyard)

Anyother aspectsyou wouldlikeus to focuson

Detach thecompleted page from theReviewand drop it into the Parish Council Office: Church Road Charlton Kings

Wheretogotofor informationand help aboutcommonissues,contact information forthe Parish Council andhow to keep up to date with allthe Charlton Kingsnews.

DogFouling

CheltenhamBorough Council

Flytipping

Cheltenham BoroughCouncil

www.bit.ly/CKReportDogFoulingwww.bit.ly/CKReportFlyTipping

Potholes

GloucestershireCountyCouncil

www.bit.ly/CKReportPotholes

Graffiti

Cheltenham BoroughCouncil

Flooding

GloucestershireCountyCouncil

www.bit.ly/CKFlooding1

Anti-social behaviour

GloucestershireConstabulary

Speeding/Traffic offences

GloucestershireConstabulary

www.bit.ly/CKReportSpeeding

Energy Efficiency

Warm andWell

www.bit.ly/CKEnergyEfficiency

Food banks

Trussell Trust

www.bit.ly/CKReportGraffitiwww.bit.ly/ReportASBGlosPolicewww.bit.ly/CKFoodBanks

Grit bins

GloucestershireCountyCouncil

Parking issues

GloucestershireCountyCouncil

www.bit.ly/CKGritBinswww.bit.ly/CKParking

www.bit.ly/CKAtoZServices

Contactthe Parish Council What's On Calendar Parish CouncilNewsletters

Email clerk@charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk

Website www.charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk

Phone 01242250087

www.bit.ly/CKWhatsOnCalendar www.bit.ly/CKPCNewsletters

clerk@charltonkingsparishcouncil.gov.uk