INCOME AND EXPENDITURE 21 JULY 2026
| APR | MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUG | SEPT | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR | CURRENT TOTAL | BUDGET | VARIANCE | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clerk's Salary & Pension | 811.2 | 811.2 | 811.2 | 811.2 | 3244.8 | 10124 | 6879.2 | ||||||||
| Room Rental | 100 | 100 | 312 | 212 | |||||||||||
| Admin ,Stationery,Photocopies | 7.33 | 7.33 | 800 | 792.67 | |||||||||||
| Insurance | 1659.63 | 1659.63 | 1659.63 | 0 | |||||||||||
| Telephone | 20 | 20 | 20 | 20 | 80 | 240 | 160 | ||||||||
| Postage | 8.19 | 3.8 | 11.99 | 30 | 18.01 | ||||||||||
| Litter Bins, Benches & Signage, Gazebo | 25.09 | 55.83 | 80.92 | 3500 | 3419.08 | ||||||||||
| Park and Memorial Garden Extra Work | 0 | 4000 | 4000 | ||||||||||||
| Extra landscaping incl plants for village planters | 300 | 925 | 40 | 1265 | 3500 | 2235 | |||||||||
| Annual Ground Maintenance which includes: | 1100 | 1100 | 1100 | 1100 | 4400 | 12000 | 7600 | ||||||||
| Duddon Road | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Askam Community Field | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Steel/Sharp Street Recreation area | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| New Road/Stafford Street/Drs area | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Headlands/Jubilee Garden | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Fallowfield Road and Alley | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Wakefield Street | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Jubilee Fountain area | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Jubilee Fountain area | 459 | 459 | 500 | 41 | |||||||||||
| Memorial Garden | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Turnstone Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Litter & Dog Waste | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Dog Fouling | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Litter Areas & Beach Cleaning | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Festivals | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Carnival Contribution | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Christmas Light Event | 0 | 4000 | 4000 | ||||||||||||
| Remembrance Sunday & VE DAY 80 | 0 | 300 | 300 | ||||||||||||
| Youth Activities | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Grant Aid S137 | 0 | 1000 | 1000 | ||||||||||||
| Subscriptions/Training/Data Protection | 586.02 | 87.49 | 673.51 | 800 | 126.49 | ||||||||||
| Footpaths, Parks & RofW | 0 | 200 | 200 | ||||||||||||
| Mileage & Expenses (Cllrs & Clerk) | 0 | 100 | 100 | ||||||||||||
| VAT on Payments | 208.98 | 4.17 | 213.15 | ||||||||||||
| Communications | 0 | 700 | |||||||||||||
| Website | 0 | 250 | 250 | ||||||||||||
| Highways, Signs & Crime Prevention, Safety | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Decommissioning Police Pod | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Funding for public toilet | 0 | 200 | 200 | ||||||||||||
| Audit and Election Costs | 100 | 100 | 450 | 350 | |||||||||||
| TOTAL EXPENDITURE | 2517.22 | 2231.2 | 5411.91 | 2135 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 12295.33 | 44665.63 | 32370.3 |
| APR | MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUG | SEPT | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR | CURRENT | TOTAL AFTER | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carried over | 26686.05 | 26686.05 | ||||||||||||
| Precept | 44000 | 44000 | ||||||||||||
| Bank Interest | 18.91 | 46.12 | 65.03 | |||||||||||
| Grants, Returned, Cancelled Cheques | 0 | |||||||||||||
| VAT Reclaim | 2343.03 | 2343.03 | ||||||||||||
| TOTAL INCOME | 26704.96 | 46389.15 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 73094.11 | 60798.78 |
ASKAM AND IRELETH PARISH COUNCIL
AGREED BUDGET FOR 2026 - 2027
| Clerk's Salary & Pension | 10124 |
| Room Rental | 312 |
| Admin ,Stationery,Photocopies | 800 |
| Insurance | 2000 |
| Telephone | 240 |
| Postage | 30 |
| Litter Bins, Benches & Signage | 3500 |
| Steel Street Park, Memorial Garden & Jubilee | 4000 |
| Extra landscaping & ground maintenance * | 3500 |
| Annual Ground Maintenance Total for year which includes | 12000 |
| Duddon Road | |
| Askam Community Field | |
| Steel/Sharp Street Recreation area | |
| New Road/Stafford Street/Dr Jain area | |
| Headlands/Jubilee Garden | |
| Fallowfield Road and Alley | |
| Wakefield Street banking | |
| Jubilee Fountain Area | |
| Litter & Dog Waste | |
| Dog Fouling | |
| Litter Areas & Beach Cleaning | |
| Festivals | |
| Carnival Contribution | |
| Christmas Light Event | 4000 |
| Remembrance Sunday | 300 |
| Youth Activities | |
| Grant Aid S137 | 1000 |
| Subscriptions/Training | 800 |
| Footpaths, Parks & RofW | 200 |
| Mileage (Cllrs & Clerk) | 100 |
| VAT on Payments | |
| Communications | |
| Website | 700 |
| Highways, Signs & Crime Prevention | 250 |
| Funding for publc toilet | 200 |
| Audit & Election Costs | 300 |
| TOTAL | 44356 |
MINUTES OF THE 388th MEETING OF ASKAM AND IRELETH PARISH COUNCIL, TUESDAY 21 JULY 2026 AT 7.30 PM IN THE COMMUNITY CENTRE, DUKE STREET, ASKAM
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chair; Bill Wilson, Vice Chair, Alan Mason and John Shields; Clerk, Mrs Janice Cumming, Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards, PC Chloe Dixon. 1 member of the public
None
Cllr Harry Barker, Elisabeth Donachie, Susan Orrell and John McLean, W&F Cllr Ben Shirley, PCSO Charlie Tomlinson.
A resident of Dalton Road raised concerns regarding a road being constructed onto the A595, Dalton Road giving access to land near the railway line. This newly constructed road gives access to a large piece of ‘allotment land’ which is being cleared. The parish council have not received any applications from W&F Planning regarding this development or construction of a road onto the A595, which the parish council believe is dangerous and inappropriate. Previous applications have been made to give vehicle access to these ‘allotments’ and have always been refused. The parish council shared the resident’s concerns. Cllr Daniel Edwards said he would raise this issue with Cllr Ben Shirley, who may already be dealing with this. The parish council will also contact Cllr Shirley.
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chair.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr John Shields Agreed
Cllr Shirley informed the parish council that progress is being made with regards to this issue which was highlighted by Furness Cars & Commercials. Peter Thornton Westmorland and Furness Member of Cabinet for Highways has now picked this up and is dealing with it. Cllr Shirley will keep the parish council informed.
Cllr Edwards believes that some plates have been replaced, the parish council informed him that the plate has not been replaced. Cllr Edwards will speak to the Officer dealing with this.
Grass cutting has taken place by W&F contractors. W&F have had meetings with their contractor and hopefully more staff have been sent to Furness to carry out grass cutting and regular meetings will be held with the contractor to make sure their contractual duties are being carried out. Complaints have been made regarding the footpath/cycle path on the A595. Highways visited the area and it seems they do not believe there is a problem, which is not what the people using it believe.
Cllr Edwards contacted W&F Highways regarding extra double yellow lines across the road from the surgery. The response was that there were no plans to instal further double yellow lines. If this becomes a problem with increased use of the surgery, it will be something we will need to raise with W&F.
The Enforcement Officers have been visiting the area and have seen an improvement, but there is still a dog owner allowing their dog to foul and not picking up.
PC Chloe Dixon reported on the Askam Stats June – July. 22 incidents were logged during the period, including concerns for welfare – no issues found, missing child – again no issues, neighbour dispute, 2 verbal domestic abuse, problems with children fighting, 1 hate related incident involving children, 1 RTC, 1 sudden death, GBH recorded arrests made, released on bail, one person injured and air lifted to hospital. Again, e.bikes are an issue, PC Dixon asked for information regarding ownership of these vehicles.
Update from Speed Indicator on Duke Street 12.6 to 21.6 85 percential 20 mph 6,456 vehicles counted in the period. Busiest times 8am to 9am and 3pm to 4pm. 26.6 to 3.8 85 percential 21 mph 7,648 vehicles counted.
PC Dixon said that there will be an extra police officer for Dalton North PC Henry Wray would be joining the team and was in the process of getting to know the area and PC Dixon would be introducing him to the village and it was hoped he would attend a parish council meeting.
Reference Number : B21/2026/0191 Location : Cuckoos Nest Saves Lane Askam-In-Furness Proposal Side and rear extension. No comments or objections.
Reference Number : B18/2026/0287 Location : National Trust Rangers Compound, Hawthwaite Lane, Barrow in Furness. Proposal : Replacement of Containers for National Trust Ranger Team. No objections, comment – will be an improvement.
Reference Number : B28/2026/0297 Location : Sowerby Wood, Park Road, Barrow-In-Furness. Proposal Application for the approval of details reserved by Condition No. 3 (Badger Survey and BNG Deemed condition) of planning permission B18/2026/0146 (Installation of 20m bridge to cross the valley at Sowerby Wood to establish the approved route of the King Charles III England Coast Path). No objections or comments.
Reference Number : B18/2026/0241 Location : Robbs Water Farm Park Road Barrow-In-Furness. Proposal : Erection of building to house vending machines for the sale of milk produced on the farm and associated car park. Concerns raised regarding access to development from A590.
Reference Number : B18/2026/0240 Location : 252 Ireleth Road Askam-In-Furness Proposal : Continued use of the property as a children’s home (Use Class C2), increase the number of children accommodated from three to four and associated staffing and care arrangements. No objections, supported by the parish council.
The Chair had responded on behalf of the parish council; he urged members of the parish council and the public to respond.
The Chair had received a quote from our landscape contractor for extra work in the village – to clear overgrown shrubs and ivy at the jubilee fountain area, cut back dogwoods to clear pathways at Stafford Street/New Road, reduce height of shrubs on Wakefield Street at a cost of £1,540.00. This was agreed by the parish council. Work could not commence until the end of September.
Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed
The wooden fence where the vehicles park is in a poor condition and needs replacing. The Chair asked that the parish council agree to get quotations for this work.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr John Shields Agreed
The parish council have received a complaint from a resident of shrubs and trees from the garden over-growing onto their property. The whole garden area needs work, after the nesting season, and the Chair asked that the parish council ask our Landscape contractor to provide advice and a quotation.
Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed
Cllr Edwards said that W&F had received a substantial number of complaints with regards to grass cutting and general maintenance of many areas in Furness. The contractors had brought in extra staff to deal with these complaints, and their progress will be closely monitored by W&F.
Meetings of W&F will take place over the next few months regarding budget cuts and savings; it was hoped that frontline services would not be affected. There are plans to sell/re-purpose council owned buildings – The Nan Tait Centre in Barrow is part of this plan.
The monthly expenditure spreadsheet was made available. This was viewed and accepted.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Mike Cumming Agreed
All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting. Invitation received for the Chair to attend the official opening of the King Charles III Footpath on Thursday 23 July. The Chair has accepted the invitation and has been asked to give a speech.
Rental of Community Centre for PC meetings March to July 2026 £100.00, Monthly Landscaping Maebank Tree and Garden Services £1,100.00, Paint and Linseed oil for village benches £40.00, Liam Ellis Joinery fixing seat at Duddon Road £20.00, Donation to Bowling Club for use of water £40.00, postage for annual insurance £3.80,
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed
Tuesday 15 September 2026 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chair; Cllr Alan Mason, Elisabeth Donachie, Susan Orrell, John McLean and John Shields; Clerk, Mrs Janice Cumming, Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards.
None
Cllr Bill Wilson, Cllr Ben Shirley, PC Chloe Dixon and PCSO Charlie Tomlinson.
The parish council received an email from Gary Grieve, Company Director, Furness Cars & Commercial with regards to concerns of over-grown foliage on the A595, Tippins Lane opposite Nether Close. These trees and associated vegetation are obstructing the intended sight lines and significantly restricting the usable width of the carriageway. This creates a particular hazard for larger vehicles, especially HGVs, where passing on this corner is already extremely tight and, in its current condition, increasingly unsafe. Mr Grieve first raised this issue with Westmorland & Furness Highways in October last year via their reporting portal. Aside from an acknowledgment, no action has been taken. A further report was submitted today due to the lack of progress. Removing the trees and overgrowth—particularly as they appear to sit within the highway boundary would materially improve safety at this location. He asked that the Parish Council consider raising this matter through its own channels with Westmorland & Furness to help prompt a response and action. Chair Councillor Mike Cumming has spoken to Mr Grieve and visited the area of concern. He advised Mr Grieve to contact W&F Councillor Ben Shirley to explain the situation which the parish council support, as road safety is extremely important and particularly as this area of road is close to Ireleth St Peter’s School. Councillor Cumming has contacted Councillor Ben Shirley and sent photographs of the area. Action Cllr Shirley
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chair.
Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Cllr Susan Orrell Agreed
Cllr Edwards reported that these signs have been ordered by W&F and will hopefully be fitted soon.
W&F have carried out grass cutting in the village and the cemetery. The parish council gave thanks to the local Young Farmers group working with Father Tom have carried out strimming in the churchyard which has made a huge difference.
The parish council annual accounts have been submitted to Cumbria SA the external auditor. The accounts can be viewed on the parish council website.
The parish council requested W&F officers to help with this problem. They have visited the area and posted letters to households asking them to pick up after their dogs. The area will be monitored on a regular basis. No-one wants fines to be issued to residents, please PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG.
The parish council employed Spray Away Cumbria to clean the paving at the jubilee fountain, it was agreed that it looks much better. The parish council would like to thank Askam Bowling Club for allowing the company to fill up their tanks with water. It was agreed that the parish council should donate £40.00 to the bowling club. The seats in the jubilee fountain area will be done as we are able to get someone to do them.
Proposed Cllr John McLean Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed
Charnley Home and Gardens have completed the planting to the parish council planters in the village. The planters that are usually planted up by W&F council have not been planted yet. The parish council asked if Councillor Edwards could progress this. Action Cllr Edwards
Cllr Mike Cumming painted this bin, and he will do the one at Duddon Sports Club. Action Cllr Cumming
Askam Stats May – June 2x Road Traffic Crashes – no injuries. Report of motorbikes on Beach, call for service answered by upon arrival no bikes were seen or heard. Neighbourhood police have carried out speed watch session on Duke Street after concerns were raised regarding vehicles exceeding the 20mph speed limit, particularly around school times. PCSO Tomlinson deployed the speed gun, and the speed indicator is in the area. The parish council thanked our neighbourhood police officers for their prompt action.
Reference Number: B21/2026/0190 Location: Greenbank Ireleth Brow Askam-In-Furness Cumbria.. Proposal: Single storey side and rear extension to the garage, with pitched roof and new gable, for habitable space. Removal of centre pier at front of garage to allow for larger garage door. Cllr Alan Mason had viewed the plans and visited the area. Greenbank is an older property, dating back to 1923 and an important feature within Ireleth. The only comment made was that the parish council hoped any changes to Greenbank would be in keeping with this unique property.
Cllr John McLean gave an update an important milestone for the BEAT Route project. Community Investment Funding to support this project was awarded to Walk Wheel Cycle Trust by the South Copeland GDF Community Partnership. The project will undertake feasibility work on two sections of the proposed route: Millom to Silecroft and Millom to The Green. This work is scheduled to commence in summer 2026 and conclude by summer 2027.
Cllr Elisabeth Donachie raised concerns regarding parking at the doctor’s surgery. People were parking on the double yellow lines. Cllr Donachie was concerned that the parking situation may get worse when the Kirkby Surgery closes and extra patients would be using the Askam Surgery. Cllr Daniel Edwards would raise concerns with the parking team and Highways. Action Cllr Edwards
Cllr Edwards was in contact with the council with regards to issues on the A595. A survey had been carried out with regards to litter and hopefully this would be tackled as soon as possible. It had been noted that there were dead trees on the A595, due to ash die back and this would be monitored. Cllr John McLean mentioned that overgrown trees and hedges were an issue along the A595, some making it difficult to see road signs. Cllr Edwards would report this. Update on street lighting. Work to the streetlight on Lots Road would be carried out during the school summer holidays, a temporary solar light had been fixed to the column as a temporary measure. New columns have been ordered to replace the one damaged on New Road and the one removed at Duddon Road.
The monthly expenditure spreadsheet was made available. This was viewed and accepted.
Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
A discussion took place regarding issues the parish council’s banking arrangements. It was agreed that the parish council would move their account to Unity Bank which is being used by many parish and town councils and is proving very successful.
Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
Spray Away Cumbria £459.00, Internal Audit £100.00, Charnley Home and Garden £1110.00, Copier paper £8.80, Linseed Oil and stain £12.98, Microsoft Annual Subscription £104.99, Hammerite Black Metal paint and Roller £17.12, 2nd class stamps £8.19, Maebank Tree and Garden Services £1100.00, Zurich Municipal £1,659.63
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Agreed
Tuesday 21 July 2026 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
INCOME AND EXPENDITURE 16 JUNE 2026
| 2025/2026 | CURRENT | ||||||||||||||
| APR | MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUG | SEPT | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR | CURRENT TOTAL | BUDGET | VARIANCE | |
| Clerk's Salary & Pension | 811.2 | 811.2 | 811.2 | 2433.6 | 10124 | 7690.4 | |||||||||
| Room Rental | 0 | 312 | 312 | ||||||||||||
| Admin ,Stationery,Photocopies | 7.33 | 7.33 | 800 | 792.67 | |||||||||||
| Insurance | 1659.63 | 1659.63 | 1659.63 | 0 | |||||||||||
| Telephone | 20 | 20 | 20 | 60 | 240 | 180 | |||||||||
| Postage | 8.19 | 8.19 | 30 | 21.81 | |||||||||||
| Litter Bins, Benches & Signage, Gazebo | 25.09 | 25.09 | 3500 | 3474.91 | |||||||||||
| Park and Memorial Garden Extra Work | 0 | 4000 | 4000 | ||||||||||||
| Extra landscaping incl plants for village planters | 300 | 925 | 1225 | 3500 | 2275 | ||||||||||
| Annual Ground Maintenance which includes: | 1100 | 1100 | 1100 | 3300 | 12000 | 8700 | |||||||||
| Duddon Road | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Askam Community Field | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Steel/Sharp Street Recreation area | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| New Road/Stafford Street/Drs area | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Headlands/Jubilee Garden | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Fallowfield Road and Alley | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Wakefield Street | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Jubilee Fountain area | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Jubilee Fountain area | 459 | 459 | 500 | 41 | |||||||||||
| Memorial Garden | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Turnstone Area | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Litter & Dog Waste | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Dog Fouling | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Litter Areas & Beach Cleaning | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Festivals | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Carnival Contribution | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Christmas Light Event | 0 | 4000 | 4000 | ||||||||||||
| Remembrance Sunday & VE DAY 80 | 0 | 300 | 300 | ||||||||||||
| Youth Activities | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Grant Aid S137 | 0 | 1000 | 1000 | ||||||||||||
| Subscriptions/Training/Data Protection | 586.02 | 87.49 | 673.51 | 800 | 126.49 | ||||||||||
| Footpaths, Parks & RofW | 0 | 200 | 200 | ||||||||||||
| Mileage & Expenses (Cllrs & Clerk) | 0 | 100 | 100 | ||||||||||||
| VAT on Payments | 208.98 | 208.98 | |||||||||||||
| Communications | 0 | 700 | |||||||||||||
| Website | 0 | 250 | 250 | ||||||||||||
| Highways, Signs & Crime Prevention, Safety | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||
| Decommissioning Police Pod | 0 | 0 | |||||||||||||
| Funding for public toilet | 0 | 200 | 200 | ||||||||||||
| Audit and Election Costs | 100 | 100 | 450 | 350 | |||||||||||
| TOTAL EXPENDITURE | 2517.22 | 2231.2 | 5411.91 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 10160.33 | 44665.63 | 34505.3 |
| APR | MAY | JUNE | JULY | AUG | SEPT | OCT | NOV | DEC | JAN | FEB | MAR | CURRENT | TOTAL AFTER | |
| TOTAL | DEDUCTIONS | |||||||||||||
| Carried over | 26686.05 | 26686.05 | ||||||||||||
| Precept | 44000 | 44000 | ||||||||||||
| Bank Interest | 18.91 | 46.12 | 65.03 | |||||||||||
| Grants, Returned, Cancelled Cheques | 0 | |||||||||||||
| VAT Reclaim | 2343.03 | 2343.03 | ||||||||||||
| TOTAL INCOME | 26704.96 | 46389.15 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 73094.11 | 62933.78 |
ASKAM AND IRELETH PARISH COUNCIL
AGREED BUDGET FOR 2026 - 2027
| Clerk's Salary & Pension | 10124 | |
| Room Rental | 312 | |
| Admin ,Stationery,Photocopies | 800 | |
| Insurance | 2000 | |
| Telephone | 240 | |
| Postage | 30 | |
| Litter Bins, Benches & Signage | 3500 | |
| Steel Street Park, Memorial Garden & Jubilee | 4000 | |
| Extra landscaping & ground maintenance * | 3500 | |
| Annual Ground Maintenance Total for year which includes | 12000 | |
| Duddon Road | ||
| Askam Community Field | ||
| Steel/Sharp Street Recreation area | ||
| New Road/Stafford Street/Dr Jain area | ||
| Headlands/Jubilee Garden | ||
| Fallowfield Road and Alley | ||
| Wakefield Street banking | ||
| Jubilee Fountain Area | ||
| Litter & Dog Waste | ||
| Dog Fouling | ||
| Litter Areas & Beach Cleaning | ||
| Festivals | ||
| Carnival Contribution | ||
| Christmas Light Event | 4000 | |
| Remembrance Sunday | 300 | |
| Youth Activities | ||
| Grant Aid S137 | 1000 | |
| Subscriptions/Training | 800 | |
| Footpaths, Parks & RofW | 200 | |
| Mileage (Cllrs & Clerk) | 100 | |
| VAT on Payments | ||
| Communications | ||
| Website | 700 | |
| Highways, Signs & Crime Prevention | 250 | |
| Funding for publc toilet | 200 | |
| Audit & Election Costs | 300 | |
| TOTAL | 44356 |
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chair; Cllr Alan Mason, Elisabeth Donachie, Susan Orrell, John McLean and John Shields; Clerk, Mrs Janice Cumming, Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards.
None
Cllr Bill Wilson, Cllr Ben Shirley, PC Chloe Dixon and PCSO Charlie Tomlinson.
The parish council received an email from Gary Grieve, Company Director, Furness Cars & Commercial with regards to concerns of over-grown foliage on the A595, Tippins Lane opposite Nether Close. These trees and associated vegetation are obstructing the intended sight lines and significantly restricting the usable width of the carriageway. This creates a particular hazard for larger vehicles, especially HGVs, where passing on this corner is already extremely tight and, in its current condition, increasingly unsafe. Mr Grieve first raised this issue with Westmorland & Furness Highways in October last year via their reporting portal. Aside from an acknowledgement, no action has been taken. A further report was submitted today due to the lack of progress. Removing the trees and overgrowth—particularly as they appear to sit within the highway boundary would materially improve safety at this location. He asked that the Parish Council consider raising this matter through its own channels with Westmorland & Furness to help prompt a response and action. Chair Councillor Mike Cumming has spoken to Mr Grieve and visited the area of concern. He advised Mr Grieve to contact W&F Councillor Ben Shirley to explain the situation which the parish council support, as road safety is extremely important and particularly as this area of road is close to Ireleth St Peter’s School. Councillor Cumming has contacted Councillor Ben Shirley and sent photographs of the area. Action Cllr Shirley
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chair.
Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Cllr Susan Orrell Agreed
Cllr Edwards reported that these signs have been ordered by W&F and will hopefully be fitted soon.
W&F have carried out grass cutting in the village and the cemetery. The parish council gave thanks to the local Young Farmers group working with Father Tom have carried out strimming in the churchyard which has made a huge difference.
The parish council annual accounts have been submitted to Cumbria SA the external auditor. The accounts can be viewed on the parish council website.
The parish council requested W&F officers to help with this problem. They have visited the area and posted letters to households asking them to pick up after their dogs. The area will be monitored on a regular basis. No-one wants fines to be issued to residents, please PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG.
The parish council employed Spray Away Cumbria to clean the paving at the jubilee fountain, it was agreed that it looks much better. The parish council would like to thank Askam Bowling Club for allowing the company to fill up their tanks with water. It was agreed that the parish council should donate £40.00 to the bowling club. The seats in the jubilee fountain area will be done as we are able to get someone to do them.
Proposed Cllr John McLean Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed
Charnley Home and Gardens have completed the planting to the parish council planters in the village. The planters that are usually planted up by W&F council have not been planted yet. The parish council asked if Councillor Edwards could progress this. Action Cllr Edwards
Cllr Mike Cumming painted this bin, and he will do the one at Duddon Sports Club. Action Cllr Cumming
Askam Stats May – June 2x Road Traffic Crashes – no injuries. Report of motorbikes on Beach, call for service answered by upon arrival no bikes were seen or heard.
Neighbourhood police have carried out speed watch session on Duke Street after concerns were raised regarding vehicles exceeding the 20mph speed limit, particularly around school times. PCSO Tomlinson deployed the speed gun, and the speed indicator is in the area. The parish council thanked our neighbourhood police officers for their prompt action.
Reference Number : B21/2026/0190 Location : Greenbank Ireleth Brow Askam-In-Furness Cumbria.. Proposal : Single storey side and rear extension to the garage, with pitched roof and new gable, for habitable space. Removal of centre pier at front of garage to allow for larger garage door. Cllr Alan Mason had viewed the plans and visited the area. Greenbank is an older property, dating back to 1923 and an important feature within Ireleth. The only comment made was that the parish council hoped any changes to Greenbank would be in keeping with this unique property.
Cllr John McLean gave an update an important milestone for the BEAT Route project. Community Investment Funding to support this project was awarded to Walk Wheel Cycle Trust by the South Copeland GDF Community Partnership. The project will undertake feasibility work on two sections of the proposed route: Millom to Silecroft and Millom to The Green. This work is scheduled to commence in summer 2026 and conclude by summer 2027.
Cllr Elisabeth Donachie raised concerns regarding parking at the doctor’s surgery. People were parking on the double yellow lines. Cllr Donachie was concerned that the parking situation may get worse when the Kirkby Surgery closes and extra patients would be using the Askam Surgery. Cllr Daniel Edwards would raise concerns with the parking team and Highways. Action Cllr Edwards
Cllr Edwards was in contact with the council with regards to issues on the A595. A survey had been carried out with regards to litter and hopefully this would be tackled as soon as possible. It had been noted that there were dead trees on the A595, due to ash die back and this would be monitored. Cllr John McLean mentioned that overgrown trees and hedges were an issue along the A595, some making it difficult to see road signs. Cllr Edwards would report this.
Update on street lighting. Work to the streetlight on Lots Road would be carried out during the school summer holidays, a temporary solar light had been fixed to the column as a temporary measure. New columns have been ordered to replace the one damaged on New Road and the one removed at Duddon Road.
The monthly expenditure spreadsheet was made available. This was viewed and accepted.
Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
A discussion took place regarding issues the parish council’s banking arrangements. It was agreed that the parish council would move their account to Unity Bank which is being used by many parish and town councils and is proving very successful.
Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
Spray Away Cumbria £459.00, Internal Audit £100.00, Charnley Home and Garden £1110.00, Copier paper £8.80, Linseed Oil and stain £12.98, Microsoft Annual Subscription £104.99, Hammerite Black Metal paint and Roller £17.12, 2nd class stamps £8.19, Maebank Tree and Garden Services £1100.00, Zurich Municipal £1,659.63
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Agreed
Tuesday 21 July 2026 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated ……………………………..
Date of meeting: 16-06-2026
ASKAM AND IRELETH PARISH COUNCIL
Email; theclerk@askamandirelethparishcouncil.gov.uk
www.askamandirelethparishcouncil.gov.uk
Clerk: 07962581164
Chair Councillor Mike Cumming Vice Chair Councillor Bill Wilson
Please be advised that the next meeting of Askam and Ireleth Parish Council will take place on Tuesday 16th June 2026 in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam at 7.30 pm
Janice Cumming
Mrs Janice Cumming
Clerk to Askam and Ireleth Parish Council
| Risk ID | Topic | Risk Description | Risk Level | Mitigation | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Precept | Budget Not completed | L | Full Minute RFO to follow up | Diary review |
| 2 | Precept not Paid by Barrow BC | L | Monitor Receipt | Diary review | |
| 3 | Precept adequate | L | Review monthly | Diary review | |
| 4 | Other Income | Cash Receipts | L | Cash handling is avoided however necessary controls in place | Annual review of procedures |
| 5 | Banking | L | RFO check bank statements Monthly bank reconciliations. | Regular reviews with Chairman | |
| 6 | Grants | Claims Procedures | M | RFO as required | Diary review |
| 7 | Receipt of Grants when due | L | RFO as required | Diary review | |
| 8 | Direct Costs | Goods not supplied or of poor quality | M | Confirm orders delivery notes rejected | Diary review |
| 9 | Invoices not submitted or over stated | L | Check Invoices and perform bank reconciliations | RFO to review and action | |
| 10 | Grants & Support | Requests for payments without evidence of Council agreement | L | Submit to council, minute agreement, authorise payment | RFO to review and action |
| 11 | VAT | VAT analysis | L | All items in Cash Book | RFO to review and action |
| 12 | Charged on Sales | L | Annual review | RFO to review and action | |
| 13 | Charged on Purchases | L | All items in Cash Book | RFO to review and action | |
| 14 | Claimed within Time Limits | L | Submit return | RFO to review and action | |
| 15 | Reserves | General reserves Adequacy | L | Review at Budget meetings | RFO, 3 year plan |
| 16 | Earmarked reserves Adequacy | M | Review at Budget meetings | RFO, 3 year plan | |
| 17 | Earmarked reserves unidentified or contingency | M | Review minutes | RFO, Chairman view | |
| 18 | Assets | Loss or Damage | H | Regular Inspection, adequate Insurance and notify Asset register | Diary review |
| 19 | Risk or Damage to 3rd parties | M | Adequate Insurance | Diary review | |
| 20 | Staff | Loss of Key personnel | L | Review work load, adequate hours and have succession strategy | RFO, Chairman view |
| 21 | Maintenance | Reduced value of assets or degredation of amenities | M | Regular checks and inspections take appropriate action | Diary review |
| 22 | Legal Powers | Illegal activity or payments | H | Council to be aware of their legal powers and status | Diary review |
| 23 | Financial Records | Inadequate Records | L | RFO/Clerk to check regularly and internal audit | Diary review |
| 24 | Minutes | Accurate and legal | L | Review at following meeting | Diary review |
| 25 | Members Interests | Conflict of Interest | M | Declarations of interests to be documented minuted and any conflict addressed as appropriate within code of conduct | Diary review |
reviewed and approved. 17th March 2026
| 1. Balances brought forward | 15308 | 20423 |
| 2. (+) Precept or Rates and Levies | 8000 | 16618 |
| 3. (+) Total other receipts | 14713 | 12016 |
| 4. (-) Staff costs | 11936 | 12348 |
| 5. (-) Loan interest/capital repayments | N/A | N/A |
| 6. (-) All other payments | 15662 | 15601 |
| 7. (=) Balances carried forward | 20423 | 21008 |
| 8. Total value of cash and short term investments | 20423 | 21008 |
| 9. Total fixed assets plus long term investments and assets | 202473 | 202473 |
| 10. Total borrowings | N/A | N/A |
| 11. For Local Councils only Disclosure note re Trust funds (including charitable) | [NO] | [NO] |
Total balances and reserves at the beginning of the year as recorded in the financial records. Value must agree to Box 7 of previous year.
Total amount of precept (or for IDBs rates and levies) received or receivable in the year. Exclude any grants received.
Total income or receipts as recorded in the cashbook less the precept or rates/levies received (line 2). Include any grants received.
Total expenditure or payments made to and on behalf of all employees. Include gross salaries and wages, employers NI contributions, employers pension contributions, gratuities and severance payments.
Total expenditure or payments of capital and interest made during the year on the council’s borrowings (if any).
Total expenditure or payments as recorded in the cashbook less staff costs (line 4) and loan interest/capital repayments (line 5).
The sum of all current and deposit bank accounts, cash holdings and short term investments held as at 31 March – to agree with bank reconciliation.
The value of all the property the authority owns – it is made up of all its fixed assets and long term investments as at 31 March.
The outstanding capital balance as at 31 March of all loans from third parties (including PWLB).
The council, as a body corporate, acts as sole trustee for and is responsible for managing Trust funds or assets.
For guidance refer to the Practitioners’ Guide 2023/24.
I certify that for the year ended 31 March 2026 the Accounting Statements in this Annual Governance and Accountability Return present fairly the financial position of this authority and its income and expenditure, or properly present receipts and payments, as the case may be.
Signed by Responsible Financial Officer:
Signature:
Date
04/05/2026
I confirm that these Accounting Statements were approved by this authority on this date:
Signed by Chair of meeting where the Accounting Statements were approved:
Signature:
Date
04/05/2026
Annual Governance and Accountability Return 2025/26 Form 3
Local Councils, Internal Drainage Boards and other Smaller Authorities*
Page 5 of 6
We acknowledge as the members of:
Askam and Ireleth Parish Council
our responsibility for ensuring that there is a sound system of internal control, including arrangements for the preparation of the Accounting Statements. We confirm, to the best of our knowledge and belief, with respect to the Accounting Statements for the year ended 31 March 2026, that:
| Agreed – ‘Yes’ means that this authority | Yes | No | N/A | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. We have put in place arrangements for effective financial management during the year, and for the preparation of the accounting statements. | prepared its accounting statements in accordance with the Accounts and Audit Regulations. | [YES] | [NO] | [N/A] |
| 2. We maintained an adequate system of internal control, including measures designed to prevent and detect fraud and corruption and reviewed its effectiveness. | made proper arrangements and accepted responsibility for safeguarding the public money and resources in its charge. | [YES] | [NO] | [N/A] |
| 3. We took all reasonable steps to assure ourselves that there are no matters of actual or potential non-compliance with laws, regulations and Proper Practices that could have a significant financial effect on the ability of this authority to conduct its business or manage its finances. | has only done what it has the legal power to do and has complied with Proper Practices in doing so. | [YES] | [NO] | [N/A] |
| 4. We provided proper opportunity during the year for the exercise of electors’ rights in accordance with the requirements of the Accounts and Audit Regulations. | during the year gave all persons interested the opportunity to inspect and ask questions about this authority’s accounts. | [YES] | [NO] | [N/A] |
| 5. We carried out an assessment of the risks facing this authority and took appropriate steps to manage those risks, including the introduction of internal controls and/or external insurance cover where required. | considered and documented the financial and other risks it faces and dealt with them properly. | [YES] | [NO] | [N/A] |
| 6. We maintained throughout the year an adequate and effective system of internal audit of the accounting records and control systems. | arranged for a competent person, independent of the financial controls and procedures, to give an objective view on whether internal controls meet the needs of this smaller authority. | [YES] | [NO] | [N/A] |
| 7. We took appropriate action on all matters raised in reports from internal and external audit. | responded to matters brought to its attention by internal and external audit. | [YES] | [NO] | [N/A] |
| 8. We considered whether any litigation, liabilities or commitments, events or transactions, occurring either during or after the year-end, have a financial impact on this authority and, where appropriate have included them in the accounting statements. | disclosed everything it should have about its business activity during the year including events taking place after the year end if relevant. | [YES] | [NO] | [N/A] |
| 9. (For local councils only) Trust funds including charitable. In our capacity as the sole managing trustee we discharged our accountability responsibilities for the fund(s)/assets, including financial reporting and, if required, independent examination or audit. | has met all of its responsibilities where as a body corporate it is a sole managing trustee of a local trust or trusts. | [N/A] | [YES] | [NO] |
*For any statement to which the response is ‘no’, an explanation must be published*
This Annual Governance Statement was approved at a meeting of the authority on:
19/05/2026
and recorded as minute reference:
63/05/26
Signed by the Chair and Clerk of the meeting where approval was given:
Chair (signature)
Clerk (signature)
www.askamandirelethparishcouncil.gov.uk
Annual Governance and Accountability Return 2025/26 Form 3
Local Councils, Internal Drainage Boards and other smaller authorities*
Page 4 of 6
ASKAM AND IRELETH PARISH COUNCIL
Assets as of 31st March 2025
The following assets were held:
| Type of Assets | Value | Replacement Basis | Date of purchase | Location of Asset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eleven in number cast iron benches valued at £300.00 each | 3300 | Purchase value | various | 4x Jubilee Garden, 5x Steel St Park, 1x Ireleth Brow, 1x Duddon Road, |
| Litter bins | 4641 | Purchase value | various | various |
| Bowling club storage building | 27000 | Build cost | 38412 | Community field |
| Community Field car park | 50000 | Build cost | 38412 | Community field |
| Filing Cabinets x 2 | 120 | Purchase value | unknown | 1 with Clerk |
| Steel street / Sharp Street recreation area | 10000 | Land value | 1995/1996 | Steel Street |
| Three gas lamp columns | 141 | Purchase value | 1995 | Community field |
| Playground equipment Community Field. Maintained by Barrow Borough Council. | 124000 | Purchase value | 38412 | Community field |
| High visibility jackets | 70 | Purchase value | unknown | with Clerk |
| Litter pickers | 179 | Purchase value | unknown | with councillors |
| Litter Bin qty 2 | 406.74 | Purchase Value | 41127 | Steel Street Park |
| Litter Bins qty 3 | 793.26 | Purchase Value | 41353 | Duddon Road, Beach Street, Duke Street (Coop) |
| Picnic Bench | 241 | Purchase Value | 41233 | Community Field |
| Seating Bench | 133 | Purchase Value | 41233 | Marsh Street |
| Planters Qty 3 | 785.7 | Purchase Value | 41717 | Duke Street |
| Litter Bin | 283.14 | Purchase Value | 41728 | Relocated to Harris Street Park |
| Rexel Guillotine | 33.33 | Purchase Value | 41873 | Clerks Office |
| Samsung Express Laser Printer | 199.49 | Purchase Value | 42031 | Clerks Office |
| World War 1 Memorial Benches qty 2 | FOC | Purchase Value | 42094 | Memorial Garden |
| 2.8m Steel Gazebo | FOC | Purchase Value | 42094 | Memorial Garden |
| Litter Bins qty 3 | 625.85 | Purchase Value | 42452 | Jubilee Fountain / 1865 Garden / Askam School |
| 1.27M Self Watering Half Barrier Basket & Brackets | 119 | Purchase Value | 42495 | Jubilee Fountain |
| 1.5 M Self Watering Half Barrier Basket & Brackets | 145.25 | Purchase Value | 42495 | Jubilee Fountain |
| 1.5M Self Watering Half Barrier Basket & Brackets | 145.25 | Purchase Value | 42495 | Jubilee Fountain |
| Litter Bin | 235.95 | Purchase value | 42495 | Jubilee Fountain |
| 120 No Waiting Cones | 960 | Purchase Value | Donated by Cumbria County Council | |
| Composite Bench | 423.63 | Purchase Value | 43771 | Lay By Broughton Road |
| 2 x Replacement Street Bins & Fixing Kits | 476 | Purchase Value | 43941 | Askam Pier & Stafford Street |
| 1 Speed Gun Prolaser 3 Police approved | 1800 | Purchase Value | 44068 | Clerks Office |
| Desktop Computer | 433.31 | Purchase Value | 44875 | Clerks Office |
| Sub Total | 227690.9 |
| Purchase Value | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Composite Bench | 410 | Duddon Road opp Football Pitch | |
| addition 2 | |||
| addition 3 | |||
| Total Purchased | 410 |
| Purchase Value | Basis | Scrapped | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Litter Bins Various | -4641 | Purchase Value | Yes | |
| Picnic Bench Community Park | -241 | Purchase Value | Yes | |
| Bench Marsh Street | -133 | Purchase Value | Yes | |
| Litter Bins 3 | -625.85 | Purchase Value | Yes | |
| Filing Cabinet 1 | -60 | Purchase Value | Yes | |
| Cast Iron Bench Duddon Road | -300 | Purchase Value | Yes | |
| -6000.85 |
| Total assets | 222100.05 | 222100.05 | 2.9103830456734E-11 |
Website Designed by Whamos Ltd