| APR | MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUG | SEPT | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR | CURRENT TOTAL | 2025/2026 BUDGET | CURRENT VARIANCE | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clerk's Salary & Pension | 924.74 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 811.20 | 9,847.94 | 9,735.00 | (112.94) |
| Room Rental | 100.00 | 20.00 | 125.00 | 75.00 | 320.00 | 300.00 | (20.00) | ||||||||
| Admin ,Stationery,Photocopies | 7.50 | 8.17 | 151.93 | 8.17 | 186.34 | 362.11 | 600.00 | 237.89 | |||||||
| Insurance | 1,614.03 | 1,614.03 | 1,614.03 | 0.00 | |||||||||||
| Telephone | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 20.00 | 240.00 | 240.00 | 0.00 |
| Postage | 6.96 | 6.96 | 30.00 | 23.04 | |||||||||||
| Litter Bins, Benches & Signage, Gazebo | 315.00 | 775.00 | 800.00 | 1,890.00 | 2,000.00 | 110.00 | |||||||||
| Park and Memorial Garden Extra Work | 1,480.00 | 1,510.00 | 410.00 | 3,400.00 | 3,500.00 | 100.00 | |||||||||
| Extra landscaping incl plants for village planters | 35.33 | 64.95 | 800.00 | 424.00 | 1,324.28 | 2,000.00 | 675.72 | ||||||||
| Annual Ground Maintenance which includes: | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 866.15 | 10,393.80 | 10,500.00 | 106.20 |
| Duddon Road | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
| Askam Community Field | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
| Steel/Sharp Street Recreation area | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
| New Road/Stafford Street/Drs area | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
| Headlands/Jubilee Garden | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
| Fallowfield Road and Alley | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
| Wakefield Street | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
| Jubilee Fountain area | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
| Jubilee Fountain area | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
| Memorial Garden | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
| Turnstone Area | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
| Litter & Dog Waste | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
| Dog Fouling | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
| Litter Areas & Beach Cleaning | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
| Festivals | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
| Christmas Light Event | 119.16 | 200.00 | 2,210.00 | 2,529.16 | 3,500.00 | 970.84 | |||||||||
| Remembrance Sunday | 7.99 | 17.32 | 110.00 | 25.64 | 50.00 | 210.95 | 300.00 | 89.05 | |||||||
| Youth Activities | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
| Grant Aid S137 | 600.00 | 600.00 | 1,000.00 | 400.00 | |||||||||||
| Subscriptions/Training/Data Protection | 87.49 | 570.15 | 52.00 | 42.00 | 751.64 | 760.00 | 8.36 | ||||||||
| Footpaths, Parks & RofW | 0.00 | 100.00 | 100.00 | ||||||||||||
| Mileage & Expenses (Cllrs & Clerk) | 0.00 | 100.00 | 100.00 | ||||||||||||
| VAT on Payments | 24.67 | 12.99 | 212.00 | 182.14 | 326.38 | 333.23 | 346.46 | 443.63 | 206.30 | 255.23 | 2,343.03 | ||||
| Communications | 0.00 | ||||||||||||||
| Website | 500.00 | 500.00 | 300.00 | (200.00) | |||||||||||
| Highways, Signs & Crime Prevention, Safety | 0.00 | 200.00 | 200.00 | ||||||||||||
| Decommissioning Police Pod | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
| Funding for public toilet | 150.00 | 150.00 | 150.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||
| Audit and Election Costs | 100.00 | 260.00 | 360.00 | 360.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||
| TOTAL EXPENDITURE | 1,810.89 | 3,796.32 | 1,875.29 | 2,367.50 | 2,969.35 | 2,448.14 | 4,690.66 | 2,076.22 | 2,418.81 | 3,001.15 | 5,665.65 | 3,723.92 | 36,843.90 | 37,289.03 | 445.13 |
| APR | MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUG | SEPT | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR | CURRENT TOTAL | TOTAL AFTER DEDUCTIONS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carried over | £20,853.42 | £20,853.42 | ||||||||||||
| Precept | £41,000.00 | £41,000.00 | ||||||||||||
| Bank Interest | £20.36 | £54.49 | £52.76 | £49.70 | £43.51 | £45.38 | £39.94 | £31.48 | £36.07 | £29.31 | £24.03 | £23.27 | £450.30 | |
| Grants, Returned, Cancelled Cheques | £130.00 | £130.00 | ||||||||||||
| VAT Reclaim | £1,526.23 | £1,526.23 | ||||||||||||
| TOTAL INCOME | £63,400.01 | £54.49 | £52.76 | £49.70 | £43.51 | £45.38 | £39.94 | £31.48 | £36.07 | £29.31 | £24.03 | £153.27 | £63,959.95 | £27,116.05 |
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chairman, Alan Mason, Susan Orrell, Elisabeth Donachie, John Shields; Clerk, Mrs Janice Cumming, Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards and Ben Shirley.
1/12/25: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST None.
2/12/25: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Councillors Bill Wilson, Harry Barker and John McLean, PC Chloe Dixon.
3/12/25: PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
3/12/25/1: Removal of Litter Bins: Reports received that litter bins have been removed from the village by Westmorland and Furness Council. Response received that these bins are past their serviceable lifetime and will be replaced. Councillor Susan Orrell asked that the one removed from Marsh Street be replaced as soon as possible as this was a well-used bin, particularly for dog walkers using the coastal path. Councillor Daniel Edwards said he would contact the team at W&F.
Action Cllr Edwards
3/12/25/2: Missing Street Plate Names: It had been highlighted that a few street name plates were missing from the village. Both Cllr Edwards and the Clerk have reported this to Westmorland and Furness Council.
Action Cllr Edwards
4/12/25: APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 18 NOVEMBER 2025
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Cllr Susan Orrell Agreed
5/12/25: PROGRESS REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
5/12/25/1: Parking at Furness General Hospital. The Clerk had contacted Patient Services at Morecambe Bay Health Authority regarding Cllr Donachie’s query about changes to parking arrangements at FGH. The response received was a little confusing as according to them the parking arrangements for clinics running late had not changed and staff would inform the parking team of an issue. It was stated that the trust would be moving to ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) in 2026, which will record actual timing of parking and provide multiple options for payment on departure. Councillor Shirley said he understood that this was the policy at other hospitals within the Trust but was concerned that special arrangements made for certain departments within hospital were carried over to the new system. The Clerk would contact Patient Services and the ask the question.
Action Clerk
6/12/25: REPORT FROM NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE TEAM
Report from PC Chloe Dixon. Dates from 15/11 - 15/12 1 hate incident which was dealt with by NPT, male arrested, 1 robbery taking a vehicle without consent and driving under the influence of drug (all one linked incident, suspect arrested. Investigation ongoing), 1 child neglect – person arrested and investigation ongoing,1 item in the highway, 2 missing persons, found safe and well, 1 harassment (multiple calls to service) linked to antisocial behaviour, kids planning knock a door run. PC Dixon has attended each child’s address, made parents aware. The children have all apologised and will be getting a detention and education at school with PC Dixon regarding their behaviour, 1 harassment under investigation, 1 criminal damage closed by control room at time reported, 1 road traffic collision, minor injuries, 1 broken down vehicle, 1 accidental call, 1 theft, 4 domestic incidents/concerns for welfare at same address which were dealt with alongside ambulance service, 1 antisocial behaviour, linked to the other logs these have been dealt with by PC 2997. Recently joining the team for Dalton North is PCSO Charlie Tomlinson, it is hoped we will see Charlie around the village soon.
7/12/25: REPORT AND DISCUSS PLANNING
There were no new planning applications to discuss.
Councillor Ben Shirley reported that Westmorland and Furness Planning were expecting to receive a challenge to their decision to refuse the Roanhead Lodge Development. They were expected a complaint to the monitoring officer. Councillor Shirley also reported he was expecting to be contacted by the Noventum, regarding their application for a solar farm off Lots Road. Councillor Shirley has objected to this application, as have the parish council.
8/12/25: PRECEPT 2026/27
It was agreed to set the precept at £44,000.00.
Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed
9/12/25: COMMUNITY EMERGENCY HUB
The parish council have been contacted by Westmorland and Furness Council regarding setting up community emergency hubs in a dedicated building in the village. As the parish council do not own any property it is difficult to respond to this request. There are community buildings in the village which maybe willing to provide this facility. Councillor Ben Shirley will speak to the officer and discuss with her.
10/12/25: WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS NATURE RECOVERY
Westmorland and Furness have grants to provide wildflower and pollinators for land/areas around the county. A list of areas within the village were supplied by Councillor Ben Shirley. The area on the Lots was suggested, unfortunately the land was not a chosen because the soil was too rich. Other areas were tested; we are unsure of the results. The Clerk was asked to contact the Officer in charge ask the question and arrange to meet for a walk around the village and look at potential areas.
Action Clerk
11/12/25: UPDATE FROM WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCILLORS
Councillor Shirley and Councillor Edwards reported. Saves Lane – Highways had carried out a survey and agreed that work needs doing to the road surface. In the first instance they will fill in the potholes and later look at resurfacing the road. Contact with Network Rail regarding the fencing near Askam Railway crossing which was damaged after a vehicle crashed into it. Work would commence shortly. Councillor Shirley has spoken to the police and crime commissioners regarding serious concerns about traffic and accidents on Ireleth Road. There is a major concern that this will worsen when the Grizebeck by-pass is completed with more traffic using Dalton Road/Ireleth Road, particularly more HGVs. Councillor Shirley has contacted Highways with a joint request from himself and Councillor Edwards. He asked that measures be put in place to reduce speed throughout Ireleth and into Askam on Dalton Road. Ultimately, we would like speed cameras on this route, or at least fixed speed indicator devices. Further, we want to continue to press for the 40-mph speed limit along the A595 to be extended to up by Askam brickworks so that it makes the Lots Road/A595 junction safer. Next, I wish to request a traffic management and parking strategy for Dalton with Newton, and for Askam and Ireleth. Finally, making Lots Road safer is another key priority for residents and motorists in Askam. As part of the traffic management survey I am requesting, it may prove that making Lots Road and, therefore, Askam a one-way route is a possibility. Whilst I’m on, please may you expedite repair of the road signs at Askam Railway Crossing ASAP. Both councillors reported on the budget consultation by Westmorland and Furness Council. There is a possibility that W&F council will need to make between £10 and £20 million cuts to their budget. This could have a devastating effect to services, particularly in rural communities.
12/12/25: CORRESPONDENCE All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting. Correspondence received from Age Friendly South Lakeland. It was agreed to invite them to attend a parish council meeting to discuss this project.
13/12/25: REPORT FROM CLERK INCLUDING FINANCES
The monthly expenditure spreadsheet was made available.
14/12/25: SANCTIONS FOR PAYMENT
Payment for Christmas Tree £100.00, Monthly landscaping and maintenance Arrad Foot Balconies £866.15, Donation to Keswick to Barrow Walk for traffic management at Christmas Tree Light Switch on £100.00, Askam & Ireleth Community Centre £125.00 rental of hall for parish council meetings September to December 2025, Donation to Askam Town Band of £50.00.
Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Susan Orrell Agreed
15/12/25: DATE, TIME, AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING
Tuesday 20 January 2026 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
The Chairman wished every a very Happy Christmas. He thanked everyone for their support over the past year.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chairman, Bill Wilson, Vice Chairman, Harry Barker, Alan Mason, Susan Orrell, Elisabeth Donachie, John Shields and John McLean; Clerk, Mrs Janice Cumming, Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards and Ben Shirley, David Savage and Adrianne Calsy, The BEAT route project.
1/11/25: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST None.
2/11/25: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE PCSO Michelle Jones.
3/11/25: PUBLIC QUESTION TIME None
4/11/25: APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 21 OCTOBER 2025
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr John McLean Seconded Cllr Susan Orrell Agreed
5/11/25: PRESENTATION FROM BARROW TO ESK ACTIVE TRAVEL (BEAT ROUTE)
David Savage and Adrianne Calsy gave a presentation to the parish council. The BEAT route is a community led project with a big ambition to create a safe, family friendly route for walking, wheeling, cycling, and riding that links communities on the Southwest Coast of Cumbria. It is about more than a path; it is about connecting people to places, improving health and wellbeing, boosting local economies, and helping our area move towards a cleaner, greener future. For more details: website: beatroute.org.uk. The parish council agreed to send a letter of support for this initiative. Action Clerk
6/11/25: PROGRESS REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
6/11/25/1: Communications with NHS regarding level 3 ICU at Furness General Hospital. The parish council have written to the ICB regarding their concerns and have received a response. The response was discussed,
Councillor Elisabeth Donachie spoke of a visit to FGH with a friend to attend a clinic appointment. Cllr Donachie parked in the visitor parking area and put 3 hours parking on her vehicle. They attended the clinic which was running late. Usually in these circumstances when a clinic is running late the staff will inform the parking attendants, so the attendants are aware that clinics are running late. Cllr Donachie was told yesterday that this was no longer the case, and patients now need to return to their cars to make further payments for parking. This seemed unacceptable to Cllr Donachie. How can you be expected to leave a clinic to return to your car, which could be some distance away, to make extra parking payments. This could waste valuable time for the doctors and nurses at the clinics to have patients leave to make extra parking payments, or you could be in the process of having treatment at the clinic and would be unable to leave said clinic. Cllr Daniel Edwards said there was a different system for parking payments at Lancaster Royal Infirmary, as you pay when you left the car park. The Clerk was asked to make enquiries. Action Clerk
7/11/25: REPORT FROM BARROW NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE TEAM
Police report from 21 October until 11 November 2025. 3 x reports for concerns on a road
1 x report to action fraud, 2x criminal damage, vandalism, 1 x log for stalking but did not transpire to be accurate, 1 x historical domestic violence, 1 x public order in playground, 2x Anti-Social Behaviour no crimes
1 x sexual assault, 1 suspicious behaviour - no one found, 1 x suspicious package on beach however negated
1 x harassment, 1 x sudden death.
8/11/25: TO REPORT AND DISCUSS PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Councillor Alan Mason stated that the application for 233 Lodges at Roanhead Farm would come before the Westmorland and Furness Strategic Planning Committee on Monday 24th November at Kendal Town Hall. Details of the application and recommendation from Westmorland and Furness Planning Officer can be viewed online.
Reference Number : B28/2025/0558 Location : 4 Ireleth Brow Askam-In-Furness Cumbria
Proposal : Section 211 application for works to Trees within a conservation area - T1 Ash - prune to create 2-3m clearance from building, T2 Sycamore - prune to create 2-3m clearance from building, T6 Ash - fell, T7 Sycamore, Hazel, Privet - Prune to create 2-3m clearance from building. There was no objection.
Reference Number: B20/2025/0560 Location : Rankin Hall Duke Street Askam-In-Furness Cumbria LA16 7AE Proposal : Conversion and change of use of a recreation hall (Use Class F2) to habitable accommodation (Use Class C3). Comments were made regarding off-road parking, the sub-station, culvert near the building and standard of the building construction.
Reference Number : B28/2025/0559 Location : Driftwood Ireleth Road Askam-In-Furness Cumbria
Proposal : Removal of large ash tree due to ash dieback. No objections.
Reference Number : B21/2025/0444 Location : The Old Parsonage, Sun Street, Ireleth, Askam in Furness, Cumbria, Proposal : Removal of redundant detached wc's. Construction of a detached single storey building forming a store room. No objections.
Reference Number : B13/2025/0422 Location : Land at Duke Street Askam-in-Furness Cumbria Proposal Reserved Matters application for the approval of access, layout, scale, landscaping, and appearance pursuant to outline planning permission ref: B13/2021/064 Outline application for the erection of 8no. dwellings. There had been a meeting to discuss a response for this application. A copy of which was made available. The Clerk was asked to respond to planning. Action Clerk
9/11/25: SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE
The Service of Remembrance was very well attended. The Chairman thanked the Clerk and her team of helpers for organising the event and providing the refreshments afterwards. The Clerk proposed that donations of £50 were sent to Askam Town Silver Band for their support and to the Royal British Legion. This was agreed.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Bill Wilson Agreed
10/11/25: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT SWITCH ON
The Christmas tree light switch on will be at 6pm on Saturday 29th November. There will be a road closure from the corner of Duke Street and Duddon Road to Park Avenue, School Street and Lord Street will also be closed from 5.45pm until 6.15pm to accommodate the light switch on. The parish council are only responsible for Christmas tree light switch on. It was noted that there may be other events taking place on the same day, these are privately organised events and not the responsibility of the parish council.
11/11/25: UPDATE FROM WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCILLOR
Cllr Ben Shirley reported that there was to be installations of double yellow lines in Askam and Ireleth soon, after a period of notification. Areas outlined are opposite the Doctors Surgery on Parklands Drive, Ireleth Brow, Abbey Heights, Blea Beck, Ireleth Road. Cllr Shirley said that these would be enforced by increased patrols by Parking Officers. Councillor Shirley spoke of the changes to the Stagecoach bus timetable which commences on 1 December 2025. This service is provided and funded by Cumberland Council, which means as Askam and Ireleth is in Westmorland & Furness we have no input into this bus service. It is hoped that W&F will look at providing better rural bus services in the Spring, should funding be available. The Blueworks Service remains the same.
12/11/25: CORRESPONDENCE All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
13/11/25: REPORT FROM CLERK INCLUDING FINANCES
The monthly expenditure spreadsheet was made available. A meeting will take place after the parish council meeting to discuss next years budget, to enable the parish council to set precept for 2026/27.
14/11/25: SANCTIONS FOR PAYMENT
Aqua ProJet £866.15, Refreshments for Service of Remembrance £25.64, Hire of Methodist Hall £20.00.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Susan Orrell Agreed
15/11/25: DATE, TIME, AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING
Tuesday 16 December 2025 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chairman, Parish Councillors Harry Barker, Alan Mason, Susan Orrell, John Shields and John McLean; Clerk, Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards, Emily Williams, Ranger for the National Trust and 4 members of the public
1/10/25: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST None.
2/10/25: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Cllr Bill Wilson, Cllr Elisabeth Donachie and PC Chloe Dixon.
3/10/25: PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
None
4/10/25: APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 16 SEPTEMBER 2025
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr John McLean Seconded Cllr John Shields Agreed
5/10/25: PROGRESS REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
5/10/25/1: Survey of Parish Benches. Quotation received from Liam Ellis for work to benches £1510.00 this was agreed.
Proposed Cllr Harry Barker Seconded Cllr Susan Orrell Agreed
5/10/25/2: Gazebo in Memorial Garden. Work had commenced to restore the gazebo.
5/10/25/3: Work at Stafford Street Area. South Lakes Tree Surgeons had carried out work to shrubs and trees in this area.
6/10/25: REPORT FROM BARROW NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE TEAM
1 x concern for breach of bail which was not the case, 1 x suspicious circumstances reported, 1 x enquiries for a missing person from out of force area, 2 x report of a domestic incident, 4 x debris / cattle in the road, 1 x RTC with pedestrian minor injuries, 1 x Sudden Death, 1 x report of house party, officers attended but no evidence of this.
7/10/25: TO REPORT AND DISCUSS PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Reference Number : B21/2025/0373
Location : 3 School View Askam-In-Furness Cumbria LA16 7FN
Proposal : Construction of a ground floor side extension forming garage. There were no objections.
Reference Number : B18/2025/0340 Location : Roanhead Car Park Hawthwaite Lane Barrow-in-Furness Cumbria.
Proposal : Planning Consent for relocation of existing carpark machine and notice board. National Trust Ranger Emily Williams made representation at the meeting and gave an overview of the application and what was intended by the National Trust for the area. Emily then answered questions from the parish council.
The parish council had no objections and supported this application.
A date had been booked for the planning training for all parish councillors. This would be Thursday 27th November at 6pm in Duddon Road Church.
8/10/25: ESK ACTIVE TRAVEL UPDATE
Cllr John McLean had been contacted by the action group regarding the parish council supporting this scheme. Questions were raised regarding the route and whether it would join up with the King Charles III footpath. Cllr McLean would contact the action group and report back to the parish council.
Action Cllr McLean
9/10/25: SANDY LANE AREA
Cllr Alan Mason had been approached by a member of our community regarding the sterling work being carried out by Mrs Fiona McMullen, who had been tidying up and clearing weeds from the area at the ginnel top of Sandy Lane, of unknown ownership. Councillor Mason said this is the sort of public-spirited gesture which should be applauded. The Clerk was asked to write a letter of thanks to Mrs McMullen.
Action Clerk
10/10/25: SERVICE OF REMEMBRANCE
This years’ service of remembrance will take place of Sunday 9 November 2025 at 2.15pm in the Memorial Garden. Meet at the community centre at 2pm, refreshments will be served after the service in the community centre.
11/10/25: CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHT SWITCH ON
Arrangements are still to be finalised for the light switch on. The plan is that the Christmas tree lights will be switched on 6pm on Saturday 29 November.
12/10/25: UPDATE FROM WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCILLOR
Cllr Daniel Edwards had been in contact with Highways regarding the poor state of the Lots Road which had large potholes. Highways reported that this work will be carried out in the next few weeks. Cllr Edwards was still progressing the repair to the bus shelter on Duke Street with W&F. He has been in contact with Highways regarding adding Lots Road and Duke Street to their winter gritting schedule. In his role as a Foundation Governor at St Peters School, Ireleth Cllr Edwards reported that the school were still seeking to employ someone to man the crossing at the school. The school were also had a vacancy for a Foundation Governor. Anyone interesting in either of these positions should contact St Peters School, Ireleth.
Cllr John Shields asked Cllr Edwards for an update on the situation with the proposed downgrading of the level 3 Intensive Care Unit at Furness General Hospital. Cllr Shields had attended a meeting at Hawcoat Park with Michelle Scrogham MP, in attendance were retired surgeons and nurses, many from the ICU, along with residents. Cllr Shields said he was shocked and appalled at the way this proposed downgrade has been handled and asked if the parish council would consider sending a letter supporting keeping an ICU at Furness General.
The parish council agreed and asked if Cllr Shield would formulate a letter for the parish council, as he had attended this meeting.
13/10/25: CORRESPONDENCE All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
14/10/25: REPORT FROM CLERK INCLUDING FINANCES
The monthly expenditure spreadsheet was made available. The Clerk reported that the precept would need to set for year 2026/27 and asked that this be done at the meeting in November.
15/10/25: SANCTIONS FOR PAYMENT
Aqua Projet Monthly Landscaping and Maintenance £866.15, Larkin Engineering Services work to gazebo £930.00, Lee McCullough work to gazebo £624,00, Platform 1 contribution toward use of public toilet £150.00, South Lakes Tree Surgeons £1776.00 work at Stafford Street Area, Toner Cartridges £182.31, Poppy Wreaths and Crosses for War Graves £110.00
16/10/25: DATE, TIME, AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING
Tuesday 18 November 2025 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chairman, Parish Councillors Harry Barker, Alan Mason, Elisabeth Donachie, John Shields and John McLean; Clerk, Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards and Ben Shirley.
1/09/25: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST None.
2/09/25: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Cllr Bill Wilson, Susan Orrell and PC Chloe Dixon.
Cllr Ben Shirley had been contacted by members of our community to express their thanks and support to the parish council. This was much appreciated by the parish council.
A member of public had contacted the parish council regarding the trees and over-grown shrubs in the area on New Road/Stafford Street/Harris Street. A quote from South Lakes Tree Surgeons had been received and agreed by the parish council. The work will be carried out on 16th October.
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr John Shields Agreed
5/09/25/1: Survey of Parish Benches. Cllr Wilson and Cllr Cumming are working with Liam Ellis to get costs for repair of the benches.
Report from PC Chloe Dixon 1 x harassment between neighbours being investigated, multiple calls for the address, 2 x logs for disturbances inside addresses, no crimes recorded for either, 1 x domestic incident, suspect arrested, 1 x historic domestic offences being investigated, 1 x road traffic collision, driver reported for driving without due care and attention, 1 x log for suspicious sound in early hours of night, Network Rail were conducting work, 1 x male arrested for assault which is under investigation, 1 x crime of theft from someone's address which is being investigated, 1 x Criminal Damage to a vehicle being investigated
1 x Civil dispute, 1 x verbal argument with ex-partners, 1 x report of youths on Surron Bikes work is being done in the background with the Neighbourhood Policing Team in collaboration with Roads Policing Unit to target road safety and use of illegal bikes
Reference Number : B18/2025/0194 Location : Land at Crossley Street, Askam-in-Furness.
Proposal: Erection of a domestic garage/store (following demolition of outbuildings). This application would be carried over as the parish council had not had sufficient time to receive comments from neighbours.
Reference Number : B18/2025/0340 Location : Roanhead Car Park Hawthwaite Lane Barrow-in-Furness Cumbria.
Proposal : Planning Consent for relocation of existing carpark machine and notice board.
This application was discussed. Concerns were raised regarding the lack information, on the application form, provided on the planning portal. Cllr Shirley will contact the National Trust.
Friends of the Lake District have made an offer to the Parish Council to carry out training with regards to changes to planning regulations, how to respond to planning and planning in relationship to local plans. The parish council agreed this was a good idea and asked the Clerk to respond. Cllr Elisabeth Donachie had attended an online training session on planning with CALC. Cllr Donachie thought the first part of the training was useful, but the second part was taken over by complaints about the planning department, which she did not find useful or productive.
The village service of remembrance will take place on Sunday 9th November at 2.15pm in the Memorial Garden. The Chairman has received an invitation to attend Barrow’s Service of Remembrance. It was agreed Cllr Cumming should attend and lay a wreath on behalf of Askam and Ireleth Parish Council. The Clerk will respond.
The parish council agreed to fund the Christmas Tree Light Switch On. It was agreed to purchase some new lights as there were some dark areas on the tree last year. A date for the switch would be agreed. Cllr Cumming would order the Christmas Tree and contact Optech who decorate the tree and switch on the lights.
The gazebo/bandstand in the memorial is in a poor state of repair. If this work is not carried out we may have a situation where the structure is beyond repair. Cllr Cumming has a quotation from a contractor to do the work at a cost of £3,200. The work needed and cost was discussed and it was agreed to ask the contractor to carry out this work.
Proposed Cllr Harry Barker Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed
Cllr Daniel Edwards reported that weed spraying had been carried out in Askam and Ireleth. Missing street sign for John Street had been reported and the broken side panel on the bus shelter near the pensioners bungalows. Potholes on the Lots Road had also been reported to Highways. Cllr Edwards spoke of the meeting which will be held at Barrow Town Hall regarding the Critical Care Unit at Furness General Hospital which will be held on 24th September. Members of the public are welcome to attend this meeting.
Cllr Edwards together with Cllr Shirley reported on the work which had been carried out on the road side drainage system on Duddon Road. The drainage system had been cleaned, which had made some improvements, but it was felt that an upgrade to the system was needed, and this would be carried out by Highways. Cllr Shirley had been contacted by a resident regarding parking in the village, particularly on Duke Street and around Askam school, also speeding traffic in the village. Cllr Shirley explained that there had been an initiative regarding parking around the school in 2019, but this had been rejected by the school PTA. Parking officers were visited the village and there would be more patrols, as they have recruited more staff. The issue with Sellafield parking is and has been an issue for many years. Sellafield apparently pay a small contribution to Askam Rugby Club for parking and encourage their staff to use this facility. It would seem that this is not being taken up by their staff, Cllr Shirley is in the process of contacting Sellafield to discuss this. As for speeding in the village, Cllr Shirley has contacted the Neighbourhood Police Team who are aware of this and are actively working to have patrols and speed guns will be deployed. There has been reports of Surran type bikes speeding around the village and the police are deploying drones to apprehend anyone speeding on these bikes. The police would appreciate any information regarding speeding traffic, especially if you have details, CCTV, camera or registration numbers. PLEASE THINK BEFORE YOU SPEED IN OUR VILLAGE.
The monthly expenditure sheet was made available. This was agreed.
Proposed Cllr Mike Cumming Seconded Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Agreed
13/09/25: CORRESPONDENCE All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting..
idverde £960.00 Bedding Plants, Moore £312.00 Annual External Audit, Aqua Projet Monthly Maintenance and Landscape August £866,15, September £866.15, Extra Christmas Tree Lights £143.97, 3-year warranty for Christmas Tree lights £8.04, 2 packs of copier paper £9.80, VJ Flag £9.98.
Tuesday 16 September 2025 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chairman; Bill Wilson, Vice Chairman; Harry Barker, Alan Mason and John Shields; Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards, PC Chloe Dixon and 3 members of the public
Chairman Cllr Mike Cumming paid tribute to Cllr Barker for his tenure of 10 years as Chairman, and the Council gave a vote of thanks and appreciation to him for serving in that role.
1/07/25: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST None
2/07/25: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Cllr Elisabeth Donachie, John McLean, Susan Orrell, Cllr Ben Shirley and the Clerk Mrs Janice Cumming.
3/07/25: PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
None
4/07/25: APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 10 JUNE 2025
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed
5/07/25: PROGRESS REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
5/07/25/1: Survey of Parish Benches. Cllr Wilson and Cllr Cumming met with Wayne Smith of Aqua Projet and Wayne will be looking at the work needed to bring the benches up to standard or replace if necessary..
6/07/25: REPORT FROM BARROW NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE TEAM
1 Public Order offence at DIR , crime recorded, Criminal Damage Offence under investigation, Youth causing issues and damage at Urofoam , Patrols being vigilant offenders unknown at this stage, 2 Harassment reports between neighbours and under investigation, One instance of sheep on the road, One instance of a tree down on road, One minor BBQ fire, Police and Fire crew attended, One instance of Cows on the road, One incident of Criminal damage and assault of a policeman mental health unit referred. Chairman thanked PC Chloe Dixon for her report. She apologised for the brevity of the previous months report.
7/07/25: TO REPORT AND DISCUSS PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Reference Number : B21/2025/0193 Location : 52 Caspian Road Askam-In-Furness Cumbria
Proposal : Erection of first floor side extension, single storey rear extension and conversion of garage (amended description). No comments or objections.
Reference Number : B21/2025/0161 Location : 4 Ireleth Brow Askam-In-Furness Cumbria
Proposal : Erection of two storey rear extension, single storey side and rear extension. No comments or objections.
Reference Number : B20/2025/0225 Location : 23 Dalton Road Askam-In-Furness Cumbria
Proposal : Section 73 Variation of Conditions 2 (Use of Site) and 3 (Dates of Occupation) of Planning Application ref: B20/2014/0055 (Change of use of land for the siting of a holiday caravan for seasonal occupation). Variation to consist of change to use to permit use of property as residential accommodation by owners and with no time/date limitations. The parish council support this application.
Reference Number : B13/2025/0258 Location : Land rear of 55 Duddon Road Askam-in-Furness Cumbria LA16 7FD (Plot 2) Proposal : Section 73 Variation of Conditions 2 (Approved Plans) and 9 (Drainage Strategy) of Planning Application ref: B13/2021/0933 (Construct of 1.5 storey 4 bedroom detached dwelling (Amended layout)). Variations to consist of changes in dwelling, garage and site design and to drainage. No comments or objections.
Reference Number : B03/2025/0242 Location : Land to North of Sowerby Lodge, Bank Lane, Barrow-In-Furness Cumbria Proposal : Construction and operation of a solar farm together with all associated works, equipment and necessary infrastructure. The parish council had questions regarding this application and these would be directed to the planning officer.
Reference Number : B23/2025/0240 Location : Low Brookside, Saves Lane, Askam-In-Furness, Cumbria,
Proposal : Listed Building Consent for re-roofing (re-using existing slate and sourcing Burlington slate to match), chimney repairs, replacement of rainwater goods and replacement rooflight. Supported by the parish council.
Reference Number : B23/2025/0239 Location : Low Brookside, Saves Lane, Askam-In-Furness, Cumbria,
Proposal : Listed Building Consent for replacement of windows with a mixture of timber sliding sash and casement frames, replacement timber doors, exterior decoration, repairs to internal plasterwork and ceilings and removal of fire surrounds. Supported by the parish council.
8/07/25: UNSIGHTLY KERBSIDE WEEDS
Councillor Bill Wilson brought this item to the agenda and the parish councillors all agreed that this was an issue within Askam and Ireleth and it was very disappointing to see the village in such an unkempt state. Cllr Edwards reported that W&F weed spraying activities were due to take place last weekend, but for 2 reason it was not carried out. 1) the equipment had broken down and 2) it was too hot to spray. Cllr Edwards has contacted the weed sprayer team, and the work should be carried out soon. During the discussions it was also noted that the surface drains were blocked and needed cleaning, and weeds were growing from the kerb drainage system and blocking the system. Cllr Edwards was asked if he could investigate getting them cleaned before it caused a flooding problem. Action Cllr Edwards
9/07/25: UPDATE FROM WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCILLORS
Councillor Edwards reported that he had attended a meeting regarding Furness General Hospital and the changes in the levels of response for critical care.
10/07/25: REPORT FROM CLERK (including Finances)
The monthly expenditure sheet was made available. This was accepted. It was agreed to purchase a flag for VJ day for the memorial garden.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed
11/07/25: CORRESPONDENCE All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
Email received from 2 members of Askam Scouts requesting funding for a Scout camp to Sweden next year.
12/07/25: SANCTIONS FOR PAYMENT
Aqua Projet monthly maintenance and landscape £866.15, Annual Membership of CALC £570.15, Rental of Community Centre £100.00
13/07/25: DATE, TIME, AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING
Tuesday 16 September 2025 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chairman; Bill Wilson, Vice Chairman; Susan Orrell; Clerk Mrs Janice Cumming; Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards.
1/06/25: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST None
2/06/25: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Cllr Harry Barker, Alan Mason, Elisabeth Donachie, John McLean and John Shields.
3/06/25: PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
None
4/06/25: APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 20 MAY 2025
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Susan Orrell Agreed
5/06/25: PROGRESS REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
5/06/25/1: Email Addresses. It is still the intention to have Whamos come to the meeting to create email
addresses for each parish councillor.
6/06/25: REPORT FROM BARROW NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE TEAM
Highways disruption 1, others 3, concern/collapse/illness 1, criminal damage 3, civil dispute 1, suspicious
incident 1. None of the above should have had any effect on the wider community, the other logs related to
drones flying. The parish council were disappointed at the lack of information being provided by the
neighbourhood police within the report and the Clerk was asked to contact the police. Action Clerk
7/06/25: TO REPORT AND DISCUSS PLANNING APPLICATIONS
None
8/06/25: CALC AND NALC MEMBERSHIP AND SUBSCRIPTION 2025/2026
It was agreed to renew the parish council’s membership of Cumbria Association of Local Councils, which
includes membership for the National Association of Local Councils. The fee of £570.15 was agreed.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Susan Orrell Agreed
9/06/25: ACCEPTANCE OF RISK REGISTER
Councillor Mike Cumming had sent out the revised risk register prior to the meeting. This was agreed.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Susan Orrell Agreed
10/06/25: SURVEY OF PARISH BENCHES
Cllr Bill Wilson had carried out a survey of all the seats and benches in the parish. These included ones
owned by the parish council and others which are the property of Westmorland and Furness Council. Most of
the seats, apart from the new recycled composite seats need work of some kind. An assessment of costs will
be made and a decision as to whether replace or repair will be made in due course. The Chairman thanked
Councillor Wilson for taking the time to do a comprehensive survey.
11/06/25: UPDATE FROM WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCILLORS
Councillor Edwards reported that work had been carried to clear the litter from the A590 into Barrow. Cllr
Edwards has worked tirelessly to get this work done by W&F. The parish council thanked him for his
perseverance in this matter and agreed the road did look much better. Councillor Edwards reported that over
the next few weeks consultations would be taking place with regards to waste collections in W&F, and he
urged people to participate in the consultations.
12/06/25: REPORT FROM CLERK (including Finances)
The monthly expenditure sheet was made available. This was accepted.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Susan Orrell Agreed
13/06/25: CORRESPONDENCE All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
Email received from 2 members of Askam Scouts requesting funding for a Scout camp to Sweden next year.
Unfortunately, the parish council are unable to fund individuals. The Clerk was asked to respond.
14/06/25: SANCTIONS FOR PAYMENT
Aqua Projet monthly landscaping and grass cutting £866.15, Internal Audit £100.00, Soil and drainage stones
for planters £71.95, feed for planters £5.99, 2nd class stamps £6.96.
15/06/25: DATE, TIME, AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING
Tuesday 15 July 2025 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
Present: Parish Councillor Bill Wilson, Alan Mason, Mike Cumming, Elisabeth Donachie, John McLean and
John Shields; Clerk Mrs Janice Cumming; Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards.
ITEM 1: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST
None
ITEM 2: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Cllr Harry Barker, Cllr Susan Orrell
ITEM 3: CHAIRMAN’S REPORT FOR YEAR 2024/2025
Councillor Bill Wilson gave the report. This year the parish council said goodbye to Councillor Sandra Hadwick and Rebecca Knagg, who had both played an active role in the parish council, Sandra over many years and Rebecca spent a little less time with the parish council. We welcomed John McLean and John Shields to the parish council and hope they will feel they can play an active role in the parish council.
The parish council played an active role in organising and funding the Christmas Tree Light switch on this year. Supported by our Westmorland and Furness Councillors, Platform 1, Askam Town Silver Band, Duddon Inshore Rescue and our Neighbourhood Police Team. The event was extremely well supported by the village and was a great success.
The parish council have again been supported by our Westmorland and Furness Councillors Daniel Edwards and Ben Shirley.
After a lot of to-ing and fro-ing the statue funded by BAE and manufactured by Furness Fluid was erected in the Memorial Garden and is a very welcome addition to the memorial garden. The main issuing was obtaining a lease agreement from Westmorland and Furness Council to site the statue in the memorial.
The Service of Remembrance went, and as always it was well supported by the community, even though the weather was not kind. The parade was led by Kirkby British Legion and Askam Town Silver Band provided the music and band member Robert Tyson played the last post and reveille. Many local groups supported the event. Thanks to Duddon Inshore Rescue for providing first aid cover and the Scouts and Beavers for their help. Thanks also to the neighbourhood police team who supported the event.
There has been a large demand on parish council time from a planning perspective due to re-consultations from both Roanhead Eco Lodges and Queensland Development with reviewed objections required to both with Cllr Mike Cumming taking the lead with support from Alan Mason, myself. There was also the application for the Blea Beck solar farm and again Cllr Mike Cumming lead the response from the parish council. For the 2nd year running responding to planning and the time it demands has featured more and more.
The parish council continue to support youth groups in the village and donations were given to Scouts, Cubs and Beavers, Brownies and Rainbows, Drop Zone and Askam Youth Action. The parish council also made a grant donation to Askam and Ireleth History Group towards their ‘Looking Back’ History Exhibition. The exhibition was a huge success, and it was estimated that around 200 people visited during the day.
The parish council have continued to fund the landscaping maintenance contract in the village. Keeping areas within the village looking tidy. Thanks to Wayne Smith and his team at Aqua ProJet. Further work was carried out at Steel Street/Sharp Street Park area with pollarding of trees and tidying around the parking area.
ITEM 4: ACCEPTANCE OF MINUTES OF THE MEETING HELD TUESDAY 14 MAY 2024
These were agreed as a true and accurate record and duly signed and dated.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
ITEM 5: ACCEPT AND ADOPT UPDATED MODEL STANDING ORDERS AND REVIEWED
FINANCIAL REGULATIONS FOR 2025
These were circulated prior to the meeting, and it was proposed and accepted that they be adopted for the coming year.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Agreed
ITEM 6: CONFIRMATION OF PARISH COUNCIL INSURANCE
Zurich Municipal Insurance Policy was confirmed and accepted.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr Mike Cumming Agreed
ITEM 7: APPOINTMENT OF CHAIRMAN & ACCEPTANCE OF OFFICE
Councillor Mike Cumming was proposed and seconded. Cllr Cumming made and signed his declaration of acceptance of office and agreed to comply with the code of conduct.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed
ITEM 8: APPOINTMENT OF VICE CHAIRMAN & ACCEPTANCE OF OFFICE
Councillor Bill Wilson was proposed and seconded. Councillor Wilson made and signed his declaration of office and agreed to comply with the code of conduct.
Proposed Cllr Mike Cumming Seconded Cllr John Shields Agreed
ITEM 9: DECLARATIONS OF ALL PARISH COUNCILLORS
All the parish councillors then made and signed their declaration of acceptance and office and agreement to comply with the code of conduct.
ITEM 10: APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS AND COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Planning Councillor Alan Mason and Councillor Elisabeth Donachie
Responsible Finance Officer Clerk Mrs Janice Cumming
Proposed Cllr John McLean Seconded Cllr John Shields Agreed
ITEM 11: DATE AND TIME OF 2026 ANNUAL ASSEMBLY
It was agreed that the date and time of the 2026 annual assembly would be on Tuesday 19 May 2026 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam in Furness.
Signed …………………………………………………………….. Date ……………………………….
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chairman; Bill Wilson, Vice Chairman; Alan Mason, Elisabeth Donachie, John McLean and John Shields; Clerk Mrs Janice Cumming; Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards.
1/05/25: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST None
2/05/25: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Cllr Susan Orrell, Cllr Harry Barker and Cllr Ben Shirley
3/05/25: PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
3/05/25/1: A letter has been received from residents seeking the parish council’s support regarding their pending application to vary the occupancy conditions relating to their lodge property, this was discussed in detail, and it was agreed that the parish council would support this application. The Clerk was asked to respond.
4/05/25: APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 15 APRIL 2025
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
5/05/25: PROGRESS REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
5/05/25/1: Email addresses. Cllr Cumming apologised for lack of progress in having Whamos come to the village to set up the new email addresses. He will set something up in the next few weeks.
5/05/25/2: Esk to Barrow Active Travel. Cllr John McLean gave an update from his communications regarding this project. The meeting agreed on the members and function of the steering committee (note 1) as had volunteered. The meeting also agreed that work on 2 route sections (Askam to Kirkby and Millom to Silecroft) is a priority for continuation. The meeting endorsed the proposal for assembling a website. Cllr McLean said that part of the route would encompass the King Charles III coastal footpath. Cllr McLean would keep the parish council updated on this project.
5/05/25/3: Dog Fouling in Askam and Ireleth. Cllr Ben Shirley and Peter Buckley, Westmorland and Furness Officer visited Askam and Ireleth and spoke to dog owners regarding the ongoing issues with dog fouling in our village. The parish council were disappointed to hear that even after a member of our community visited to the jubilee garden on the headlands and cleared the area of full dog waste bags and empty alcohol bottles, it would seem someone is still throwing full dog waste bags into the garden. The parish council will take further action with guidance from Westmorland Furness Enforcement Officer. This is unacceptable and the parish council cannot understand why someone would do this, especially as there are bins close by.
6/05/25: REPORT FROM BARROW NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE TEAM
Statistics from 1 April to 16 May. 1 crime of harassment, 2 fail to stop road traffic collisions, 1 log relating to off road bike causing concerns, 1 blackmail. PC Dixon has spoken to a youth and their parents regarding the use of e-scooters not on private land, and they are aware the scooter will be seized should she see them again. If there are still any concerns regarding off-road bikes in the village, could you please contact PC Dixon.
7/05/25: TO REPORT AND DISCUSS PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Reference Number : B23/2025/0154 Location : Low Brookside Saves Lane Askam-In-Furness Cumbria
Proposal : Listed Building Consent for replacement windows and doors.
Reference Number : B23/2025/0106 Location : Low Brookside Saves Lane Askam-In-Furness Cumbria
Proposal : Listed Building Consent for proposed repair works to roof, chimney stacks, guttering and downpipes, replacement windows and doors, painting, plastering, electrical and plumbing works.
The parish council had a full discussion regarding these applications. The parish council feel that Low Brookside is a significant part of the history and heritage of Ireleth and are keen to see this property restored and renovated and hope that support can be given to the applicant to achieve this. The Clerk was asked to respond.
Reference Number : B21/2025/0193 Location : 52 Caspian Road Askam-In-Furness Cumbria
Proposal : Erection of first floor side extension and single storey rear extension. There were no objections or adverse comments.
Consultation on an Application for a Non-Material Amendment to Planning Permission Reference No. 6/24/9002 Development: Section 73 planning application to amend conditions 1 and 2 of planning permission 6/22/9001 to extend the timescale for restoration of the site from 30 June 2024 to 30 June 2026 for cessation of importation of restoration material, and 30 June 2027 for the completion of restoration Location: Bennett Bank Landfill Site Hawthwaite Lane Barrow-in-Furness Cumbria LA14 4QH. Comments from the parish council were that this work has been extended a few times. The Clerk was asked to contact the Planning Officer to ascertain their view on how much longer the restoration work would take.
8/05/25: UPDATE ON WESTMORLAND & FURNESS LOCAL PLAN
Cllr Donachie and Cllr Cumming attended the update on TEAMS. A summary of the meeting was given explaining the requirements for the new Local Plan. Briefly there is a call for land to be put forward by land owners and property developers to satisfy the building requirements from the Government over the next 5 years details and an interactive map available on W&F Website with consultation opening in September 2025.
9/05/25: ANNUAL GOVERNANCE STATEMENT
The parish council were asked to review and approve this document, which had been sent to each Councillor prior to the meeting. This was agreed unanimously and would be signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed
10/05/25: ACCOUNTING STATEMENT 2024/25 – SECTION 2
The parish council were asked to review and approve this document, which had been sent to each councillor prior to the meeting. This was agreed unanimously and would be signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Cllr John Shields Agreed
11/05/25: STANDING ORDERS, FINANCIAL REGULATIONS
These were agreed and accepted.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed
12/05/25: UPDATE FROM WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCILLORS
Cllr Daniel Edwards reported that himself and Cllr Shirley had held a surgery at Duddon Road Methodist Church. Sgt Paul Holmes from the Neighbourhood Police Team had attended prompted by complaints by residents of Greenhaume regarding speeding traffic and parking. Cllr Edwards had again brought to the attention of W&F council the problems with litter on the A590. Cllr Edwards asked that the parish council could advertise that Ireleth St Peter’s school are looking for someone to join the Governors at the school. Anyone interested should contact the school directly.
13/05/25: REPORT FROM CLERK (including Finances)
The monthly expenditure sheet was made available. This was accepted.
Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
The Clerk mentioned that there were areas of the village that would benefit from a clean and asked if the parish council would consider doing this. She also mentioned that the gazebo in the memorial garden needed painting. Cllr Bill Wilson mentioned that some of the seats and litter bins in the village needed some repairs, painting or renewing. He asked if the Clerk had a list of these items and their locations. The Clerk would look into this.
The Clerk asked if the June meeting could be changed from 17th to 10th as she would be on annual leave. This was agreed.
14/05/25: CORRESPONDENCE All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
15/05/25: SANCTIONS FOR PAYMENT
Aqua Projet monthly landscaping and grass cutting £866.15, Copier Paper £9.00, Chocolates for Mrs Cain for cleaning jubilee garden area £7.00, Liam Ellis Joinery replacing Headlands Gate £315.00, VE Day flag £7.99. Zurich Municipal Annual Insurance £1614.03, Annual Microsoft Subscription £104.99, Soil for planters £34.00.
16/05/25: DATE, TIME, AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING
Tuesday 10 June 2025 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Alan Mason, John McLean and John Shields; Clerk Mrs Janice Cumming, Don Logan and Sue Standing, Askam Bowling Club.
1/04/25: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST
None
2/04/25: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
Cllr Susan Orrell, Cllr Bill Wilson, Cllr Harry Barker and Cllr Ben Shirley
3/04/25: PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
None
4/04/25: APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 18 MARCH 2025
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by acting Chairman Mike Cumming
Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
5/04/25: PROGRESS REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
5/04/25/1: Clearing debris from cycle lanes A595. Cllr John McLean had received a response from Cllr Shirley to say he had actioned the relevant department to deal with this problem.
5/04/25/2: Email addresses. Cllr Cumming would organise this with Whamos, but there has been so much work in responding to planning applications he has not had the time. It would be probably best to do this outside a parish council meeting.
6/04/25: REPORT FROM BARROW NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE TEAM
Report of 2 males riding dangerously around the village on an electric motor bike. Police are making enquiries.
7/04/25: TO REPORT AND DISCUSS PLANNING APPLICATIONS
Reference Number : B07/2025/0055 Location : Housing Development Site Lots Road Askam-in-Furness Proposal : Section 73 Variation of Condition 11 (Programme for the completion of the estate roads, footpaths and footways) of Planning Application ref: B07/2019/0576 (Residential Development of 29 dwellings, comprising mix of 3 and 4 bedroom dwellings (Bungalow and 2 storey) with associated roadways, parking and amenity space). Variation to amend condition to allow for estates roads and footpaths to be completed by end of 2025 and adopted as public highway. Query regarding New Road, otherwise no objections.
Reference Number : B12/2024/0213 Location : Land at Hawthwaite Lane Barrow in Furness Proposal : Change of use of land (currently used for agricultural grazing/woodland/redundant spoil heap purposes) to tourism use, comprising 23 holiday lodges (plus one warden’s lodge), 10 glamping pods, 24 touring caravan/motorhome pitches and erection of 3 ancillary buildings, which comprise a facilities building, an amenity block and a booking-in office. Objections originally sent by the parish council still applied. Cllr Mike Cumming would formulate a response.
Reference Number : B21/2025/0153 Location : The Red Barn Greenscoe Askam-in-Furness Proposal : Erection of single storey rear extension. No objections or comments. Action Clerk
8/04/25: PRESENTATION FROM ASKAM BOWLING CLUB
Don Logan, Secretary and Sue Standing, Treasurer, Askam Bowling Club gave an excellent presentation on their plans for the future of Askam Bowling Club. The bowling club need to update their equipment and have plans to replace the bowling pavilion and other buildings at the club. The parish council were very supportive and would help in anyway they could with their plans. It was gratifying to hear of how active and successful the club was with some 97 members and 12 bowling teams in the local leagues. The parish council said how proud they must be of their success and rightly so. The bowling club is a great asset to the village and provides much needed community recreational facilities and a place where people can meet and keep our community alive. The parish council thanked Don and Sue for coming to the parish council meeting.
9/04/25: UPDATE FROM WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCILLORS
No report.
10/04/25: REPORT FROM CLERK (including Finances)
The monthly expenditure sheet was made available. This was accepted.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
11/04/25: CORRESPONDENCE All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
Messages of thanks from Scouts, Cubs and Beavers, Brownies and Rainbows, Drop Zone Youth Projects and Askam Youthi for the donation towards their activities. Message of thanks of Ireleth Askam WI for grant donation.
Message of thanks from Askam and Ireleth history group to the parish council for sponsoring the ‘Looking Back Exhibition’ held on Saturday 12th April. The exhibition was a great success and very well supported. Cllr John McLean thanked all involved. Cllr Cumming said it was really Janice who should be thanked as she did 90% of the work.
Correspondence received from Esk to Barrow Active Travel. Cllr John McLean would attend the meeting on Thursday 24 April to represent Askam and Ireleth Parish Council.
Correspondence received from Noventum regarding an offer of a community benefit fund. The parish council did feel they could accept this funding as they were against Noventum’s proposal for a solar farm south of Lots Road and had objected to this application. The parish council felt that accepting such an offer would compromise the parish council. The Clerk was asked to respond. Action Clerk
11/04/25: SANCTIONS FOR PAYMENT
Aqua Projet £866.15 monthly maintenance and landscaping.
12/04/25: DATE, TIME, AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING
Tuesday 20 May 2025 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
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