Marston Sicca Parish Council – Actively working for the Community
Marston Sicca Parish Councillors are dedicated to supporting and empowering the local community, demonstrating a consistently proactive approach.
Representing Local Interests
We act as the voice for our residents, ensuring that community perspectives are heard in local matters. Our involvement in planning and related issues includes conducting site visits, engaging in discussions with the district council and developers, and carefully reviewing applications to ensure the best outcomes for our area.
Enhancing the Local Environment
Our parish council champions environmental initiatives. We encourage recycling and actively support climate change awareness, including participating in and funding two annual events focused on Climate Change and Biodiversity.
Our council also secured and planted 600 saplings around Marston Meadow boundary, doubled the number of fruit trees in the orchard and orchestrated a micro wood planted to help meadow drainage. These activities were executed without cost to the community via the support and help of volunteers and councillor’s personal time.
The Parish Council recognised the importance of enhancing our green spaces for the benefit and enjoyment of all residents. In response to this need, a community pavilion equipped with seating was constructed within Marston Meadow, offering a welcoming area for gathering and relaxation. Furthermore, the council implemented the first phase of a pathway project, providing improved access through Marston Meadow and connecting directly to the Greenway. This initiative ensures that every resident can enjoy the natural beauty and recreational opportunities available in our local environment.
Delivering Local Services
We oversee and manage key amenities such as playing fields, community centres, and allotments:
- Initiated, managed, and funded the opening of Meon Vale Pavilion Community Hub
- Acquired and improved a local allotment site for residents’ use
- Took ownership of land and assets to provide valued green spaces and amenities
- Secured funding for speed calming measures, resulting in 2 build outs for the village
- Installed a new bus shelter for Meon Vale residents
- Funded and participated in repairs to vital assets & supported community events from PC grants
- Designated some assets as social infrastructure to secure funding and mitigate costs to the taxpayer.
Influencing Decisions
Though our direct authority is limited, the parish council holds significant influence. We regularly collaborate with District and County Councils, as well as the police, to ensure local issues and needs are addressed.
Our councillor portfolio holder with a small, dedicated committee and full council support, researched, planned and delivered our Neighbourhood Plan.
Engaging the Community
We encourage residents to join parish council meetings and share their views. The council actively participates in local events, supports a community newsletter, and attend residents’ meetings to discuss important matters.
Facing Community Growth
With continued growth in our parish, the council remains dedicated to meeting the challenges that accompany development. Through proactive solutions and collaboration, we strive to fulfil the evolving needs of our community, both now and for the future.
- Successfully petitioned to get Long Marston reclassified as a Category 4 Local Service Village from Category 3
- Chaired a subcommittee with Meon Vale residents to get a planning application for 300 dwellings refused by SDC on the Woodland. An excellent example of the fusion between Parish Council and residents action plan.
- Actively campaigned to retain the integrity of listed buildings in the village and vigorously campaigned against planning applications either side of the Brickall and to Barley Fields.
Planning for the Future
- Road Safety – The Council regularly undertakes Speed data analysis along with ongoing reviews and options for speed calming measures
- Community Wellbeing – The Council is dedicated to supporting the overall wellbeing of the community by proactively addressing local issues, such as Anti-Social Behaviour. Through ongoing discussions and the sharing of ideas with relevant stakeholders, we aim to find effective solutions that promote a safer and more harmonious environment for all residents.
- Planning initiatives – The Council is committed to the ongoing review of all planning matters, ensuring that any adjustments to government directives are thoroughly considered. Direct consultations with prospective developers are conducted as part of our dedication to responsible planning and community engagement.
- Building a community – The Council is committed to fostering a sense of belonging by supporting a variety of events and activities designed to enrich the lifestyle experience within our parish. Through these initiatives, we aim to bring people together and create lasting connections that strengthen our community spirit.