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 ……………………………..
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 ……………………………..
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming (Chair), Bill Wilson (Vice Chair), Alan Mason, Elisabeth Donachie, Susan Orrell and John Shields; Clerk, Mrs Janice Cumming; Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards.
1/05/26: Disclosure of Interest: None.
2/05/26: Apologies for Absence: Cllr Harry Barker, Cllr John McLean, PC Chloe Dixon and PCSO Charlie Tomlinson.
3/05/26: Public Question Time
3/05/26/1: Member of the public raised concerns about speeding traffic on Duke Street around school times. He witnessed a blue SUV driving over the 20-mph speed limit, which he felt was a danger to the children walking across the road to Askam Village School. Measures have been put in place with flashing lights. Cllr Donachie would raise this issue with the Head at Askam School. Cllr Edwards would contact the neighbourhood police to ask if they could carry out speed watch sessions in the area. The parish council would like to remind people that the whole of Askam is 20 mph, they asked that particular care is taken by drivers around the school.
4/05/26: Approval of Minutes of Meeting Held 21 April 2026: These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chair. Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed.
5/05/26: Progress Reports and Updates from Previous Meeting
5/05/26/1: Missing Street Plate Names: Cllr Edwards has received no updates from the officer in charge of replacing street plate names. He has raised this with Tracy Ingham at the Annual Westmorland and Furness Council meeting.
5/05/26/2: Grass Cutting in Askam and Ireleth: There have been further concerns raised about the quality and frequency of grass cutting in the village by Westmorland and Furness. Areas of concern in particularly are Ireleth Cemetery and churchyard, play areas and the Memorial. Cllr Edwards would contact W&F to raise questions regarding the contract W&F have with their contractor.
6/05/26: Report from Neighbourhood Police Team: PCSO Charlie Tomlinson sent in the report – 1 Public order – male arrested; 1 Domestic abuse – verbal disagreement; 1 criminal damage – currently being investigated; 1 concern for welfare – safe and well; 1 fires on the beach – currently investigating; 1 stolen motor vehicle – uplifted by police.
7/05/26: Report and Discuss Planning
CA 13/46 – Application to register waste land of the manor as common land CL77 Common Hest, Saves Lane, Ireleth. Cllr Mason explained the background to this application. It is to formally register this area as common land as a requirement by the Open Space Society. The land will be owned by Westmorland and Furness Council; this will protect the land from Development. The parish council had no objections to this application.
8/05/26: 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 Chair and RFO. Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed.
9/05/26: Accounting Statement 2025/26 – 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 Chair. Proposed Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed.
10/05/26: Vacancy for Governor – Ireleth St Peters School: Cllr Susan Orrell stated that there was a vacancy for a Foundation Governor at Ireleth St Peters School, anyone interested could contact the school on 01229 462753. Cllr Elisabeth mentioned that there was also a vacancy for a Governor at Askam Village School contact the school for details on 01229 462814.
11/05/26: Dog Fouling Steel Street/Sharp Street Park Area: The parish council have received a complaint regarding a large amount of dog mess in the hedge near the car parking area at the park. It would appear that this is probably being caused by someone letting their dog(s) out without supervision, allowing them to clean themselves and not picking up. It is disappointing as the parish council have purchased bins for the area and are working with our landscape contractor to enhance the area for residents. This is not only illegal act it is anti-social and a health hazard. The parish council will seek advice from Enforcement Officers but ask in the meantime if anyone has information to contact the parish council and to whoever is doing this to think about their actions and our community who use this area and PLEASE BE A RESPONSIBLE DOG OWNER.
12/05/26: Summer Bedding Plants for Village Planters: This year's planting will be carried out by Charnley's Garden Centre, the parish council is pleased to be working with Marc Charnley and Sam Procter. Planting will commence in early June.
13/05/26: Cleaning of Jubilee Fountain: The Clerk met with SprayAway Cumbria regarding cleaning the area around the jubilee fountain and bus shelter area. A quote for the work to power wash, chemical treat, cleaning bus shelter, litter bins, benches and fountain, disposal of waste £459.00. It was agreed to carry out this work. Askam Bowling club have kindly agreed that SprayAway can fill their water containers at the club, which is very much appreciated. Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed.
14/05/26: Update from Westmorland and Furness Councillor: Cllr Daniel Edwards had reported that he had attended W&F full council meetings. Cllr Peter Thornton mentioned that there was still an amount of money for fixing potholes. Any potholes should be reported through HIAMS.
15/05/26: Report from Clerk Including Finances: The monthly expenditure spreadsheet was made available. This was viewed and accepted. Proposed Cllr Susan Orrell Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed.
16/05/26: Correspondence: All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
17/05/26: Sanctions for Payment
| Mike Hool, Maebank tree and gardening services | Monthly landscape & maintenance | £1,100.00 |
| Mike Hool, Maebank tree and gardening services | Prune tree and remove fallen branches in Steel Street Park | £300.00 |
Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Agreed.
18/05/26: Date, Time, and Place of Next Meeting: Tuesday 16 June 2026 at 7.30pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed: ……………………………………………………………. Dated: ……………………………………
Present: Parish Councillor Bill Wilson, Alan Mason, Mike Cumming, Elisabeth Donachie, Susan Orrell, 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 John McLean.
Item 3: Chair's Report for Year 2025/2026
The Parish council remains stable this year with no changes in councillors.
One of the most important issues for the parish council last year was that the planning application for lodges at Roanhead Farm was refused by Westmorland and Furness Planning. No appeal was lodged by the applicant. This application took up an unprecedented amount of the time for the parish council sub-committee – 3 years in all responding to planning, attending meetings and meeting with other groups. I would like to thank all of those who spent so much of their time, energy and experience in responding to the applications. I would also like to thank the Save Roanhead Group, National Trust, Friends of the Lake District, Cumbria Wildlife Trust and many individuals and other Nature and Wildlife groups who like the parish council felt Sandscale Haws, Roanhead and Askam Beach were worth saving from this Development for future generations.
The Service of Remembrance in November was again well attended with support from the Clergy, British Legion, Askam Town Silver Band and local organisations, Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, Brownies and Rainbows and of course Duddon Inshore Rescue who support as well as providing first Aid cover. Thanks also to the veterans and members of the Public who year upon year turn out in large numbers. As usual the Neighbourhood Policing Team were in attendance and aided with the road closure, we are very grateful for their continued support of the Parish Council. And to the team who provide refreshments in the community centre.
The Christmas event was a success with thanks to Platform 1 and the Community centre for their support, Askam Silver Band were again involved and added greatly to the festive spirit with their repertoire of music. A special thanks to the K2B event Marshalls who provided us with the Road closure management without which we could not have had the event, hopefully this will be the start of a partnership with them. We again had an excellent Xmas Tree from Stribers with HBP assisting Optech to erect and dress the tree. Again, thanks to all.
During the year Westmorland and Furness changed their contractor for gardening services in the area, unfortunately so far in the village this would seem a retrospective step.
In stark contrast to the PC's new provider Mike Hool, who has replaced Wayne Smith of Aqua Projet who decided to concentrate on his main business. Mike is proving to be a worthwhile asset as he also does tree works. The PC is responsible for landscaping in many areas within the village and we continue to strive to make them attractive.
We have repaired or replaced many of the benches within the Parish and hopefully these efforts can be seen. Partial works to the Gazebo during the winter were complete to the roof canopy and painting is scheduled for June.
The PC continues to support youth groups in the village Scouts, Cubs, Beavers, Brownies and Rainbows, Drop Zone and Askam Youth Action, we especially supported Askam Youth Action because of funding difficulties caused by changes by many organisations' requirements from small volunteer youth groups. This year the parish council also supported Sisterhood and the Hive group who meet at the rugby club on a Monday morning.
The parish council also supported Askam Bowling Club by helping them to purchase a watering system for the bowling green.
Finally, I would like to thank our W&F councillors for their continued support, Cllr Dan Edwards and Ben Shirley and to the Parish Councillors with a special thanks to our Clerk who holds everything together and puts a lot of work into the events and the monthly running of the Parish Council.
Item 4: Acceptance of Minutes of the Meeting Held Tuesday 20 May 2025: These were agreed as a true and accurate record and duly signed and dated. Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr Alan Mason Agreed.
Item 5: Accept and Adopt Updated Model Standing Orders and Reviewed Financial Regulations for 2026: These were circulated prior to the meeting, were proposed and accepted to be adopted for the coming year. Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr John Shields Agreed.
Item 6: Confirmation of Parish Council Insurance: Zurich Municipal Insurance Policy was confirmed and accepted. Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson 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
Proposed Cllr Susan Orrell Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed.
Item 11: Date and Time of 2027 Annual Assembly: It was agreed that the date and time of the 2027 annual assembly would be on Tuesday 18 May 2027 at 7.30pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam in Furness.
Signed: …………………………………………………………….. Date: ……………………………….
Present: Members of the Parish Council Councillor Mike Cumming, Chair, Bill Wilson, Vice Chair, Alan Mason, Elisabeth Donachie, Susan Orrell, John Shields and John McLean; Clerk, Mrs Janice Cumming, Westmorland and Furness Councillor Daniel Edwards.
1/03/26: DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST
Cllr Alan Mason item 15.
2/03/26: APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE
PC Chloe Dixon, PCSO Charlie Tomlinson, Cllr Harry Barker.
3/03/26: PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
An item had been received from a public of the public regarding Sellafield Parking in the village. This would be discussed as an agenda item.
4/03/26: APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD 17 FEBRUARY 2026
These were approved and agreed as a true and accurate record and were duly signed by the Chairman.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr John Shields Agreed
5/03/25: PROGRESS REPORTS AND UPDATES FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
5/03/26/1: Removal of Litter Bins: These litter bins have now been replaced by W&F but need fixing permanently in place. Closed
5/03/26/2: Missing Street Plate Names: No further updates.
5/03/26/3: Garden Waste Collection: The new charges the emptying of garden waste has been agreed by W&F. The charge will be £60 per year, no collections in December, January and February. This charge is for 1 bin, if householders require more than one bin there will be extra charges. The parish council raised concerns that these charges could see an increase in fly-tipping.
5/03/26/4: Bench for Duddon Road: The new bench is on order.
5/03/26/5: Royal Mail. Delivery of letter post to Askam and Ireleth remains poor with post sometimes taking up to 2 weeks to be delivered. Cllr John Shields said that the issue had been discussed at the Prime Ministers question time with concerns raised regarding the performance of the Royal Mail, with the CEO facing questions from the government and select committee.
6/03/25: REPORT FROM NEIGHBOURHOOD POLICE TEAM
Neighbourhood Police report from 17/2 to 11/3. 1 x crime recorded. Incident involved dispute between young children at school, 1 x civil dispute over contracting work which resulted in verbal argument and crime for public order, 1 x crime for criminal damage & assault following two youths fighting, 1 x Civil dispute resolved, 1 x blackmail over social media, under investigation, 1 x unexpected death, not treated as suspicious, referred to coroner, 1 x concern for mental health, treated in hospital, 1 x positive stop search for cannabis, 1 x immediate response for public order, not as initially reported. No crimes recorded, 1 x cows on the road, no cows hurt in the process.
7/03/26: REPORT AND DISCUSS PLANNING
None
8/03/26: SELLAFIELD PARKING IN ASKAM AND IRELETH
A resident had contacted the parish council regarding issues with vehicles parking in the village by Sellafield employees. This is an ongoing problem and has been for many years. Although both the parish council and our Dalton North Councillors have met with Sellafield Management, attended meetings with both Sellafield and Highways, there has been no solution found. At one stage there was talk of Sellafield purchasing land to provide a car park, but as Askam and Ireleth are not part of the 'Energy Coast' there were no funds available to do this. It is not illegal to park in the village if your vehicle is taxed, with an MOT what is illegal is parking on pavements and blocking an access or highway which can reported to the police and/or the parking enforcement officers. Cllr Daniel Edwards stated that he had received a complaint regarding this subject and had responded. The Clerk was asked to respond.
9/03/26: FLY-TIPPING, DUDDON ROAD
Cllr Bill Wilson reported that a significant amount of wood chippings had been dumped near Duddon Road Car Park. Cllr Wilson produced photographs, it was thought that a white van may have been the offender. Cllr Daniel Edwards would report to W&F Council. The parish council are concerned about the amount of fly-tipping which seems to be on the increase, they believe because of charges at the public tips and the increase in charges for disposing of garden waste. It is a worry that this will further increase with the new charges for emptying property garden waste.
Action Cllr Edwards
10/3/26: ISSUES AROUND RECENT ROAD WORKS ON DUDDON ROAD
Cllr John McLean raised concerns regarding the recent road works on Duddon Road which had caused disruptions and anguish for residents in the area. Cllr McLean said that the traffic was accessing the private road/unadopted from Duddon Road and onto Lord Street and then Duke Street, this was not part of the official diversion, which was not enforced by Highways. 2 vehicles were damaged on Lord Street because of vehicles using this road. Cllr McLean contacted Cllr Ben Shirley to say that he felt the road closure and diversion was badly handled with poor signage and management, Cllr McLean hoped that there would be lessons learned when other works were carried out in the village.
11/03/26: UPDATE ON STREET CLEANING
The new litter barrow ordered by W&F for the Askam and Ireleth Street cleaner as been delivered and is already in use. The parish council would like to thank W&F and our Dalton North Councillors for arranging this. It is heartening to see our village receiving attention from the W&F team in keeping our village clean and clear of litter. It is hoped that as well as the regular street cleaner the village will have the mechanical sweeper to clear the debris from the road gutters. The Clerk was asked to pass on thanks from the parish council. Action Clerk
12/03/26: PARISH COUNCIL LANDSCAPE AND MAINTENANCE CONTRACT
Cllr Mike Cumming reported that Wayne Smith our landscaping contractor had given notice to the Parish Council. Wayne has done a fantastic job for the parish council for the last 9 years and the parish council asked the Clerk to thank Wayne for all his hard work in keeping our village tidy. A new contractor was approached, Mike Hool, who visited the village and quoted £13,200.00 for the yearly contractor. This was accepted by the parish council. Mike Hool will commence work on 1 April 2026.
Proposed Cllr Bill Wilson Seconded Cllr John McLean Agreed
13/03/26: ACCEPTANCE OF RISK REGISTER
The parish council risk register has been updated and a copy sent to the parish councillors. Cllr Mike Cumming asked if it could be accepted. This was agreed.
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed
14/03/26: UPDATE FROM WESTMORLAND AND FURNESS COUNCILLORS
Cllr Daniel Edwards reported that an agreement had been reached between W&F and National Highways for litter to be removed from the A590 from Dalton roundabout to Park Road. W&F have written to all local skip hire and waste companies reminding them on the law to keep their wagons covered while on the roads. This week will be done in the next few weeks. Cllr Edwards reported that there was an issue with the streetlight on Lots Road which was being investigated by Highways. At the W&F cabinet meeting on Monday at Barrow Town Hall it had been agreed to demolish the Forum 28 and market hall in Barrow. As a Governor of Ireleth St Peter's School Cllr Edwards reported that there had again been issues with parking around the school and surrounding area.
15/03/26: REPORT FROM CLERK INCLUDING FINANCES
The monthly expenditure spreadsheet was made available. This was viewed and accepted.
It had been suggested that the parish council support the groups in the village who provide a social link for our young people and not so young people. This was agreed. Grant funding of £100.00 would be sent to Sisterhood, The Hive Group, Scouts, Brownies, Drop Zone, Askam Youth Action.
Proposed Cllr John Shields Seconded Cllr Bill Wilson Agreed
16/03/26: CORRESPONDENCE
All correspondence sent to the parish councillors prior to the meeting.
Askam and Ireleth History Group, first meeting of 2026 with Kevin Alexander on Thursday 19th March at Askam Methodist Church. Kevin will tell us how he researched his recently published book Askam 1850 to 1930.
Again, at the Methodist Church on Saturday 21st March Spring Get-together craft stalls, activities for children, refreshments. Rev'd Kate Hunt will be organising Sunflower seed planting in memory of Sue Johnson of Drop Zone. All welcome.
17/03/26: SANCTIONS FOR PAYMENT
| Description | Amount |
|---|---|
| CALC training | £42.00 |
| Stamps | £6.95 |
| Land Registry | £14.00 |
| Toner Cartridges | £198.46 |
| Askam Sisterhood | £100.00 |
| Askam Youth Action | £100.00 |
| 1st Ireleth with Askam Brownies | £100.00 |
| Drop Zone Youth Projects | £100.00 |
| 3rd Duddon Scouts | £100.00 |
| Busy Beehive Group | £100.00 |
| Askam Community Centre room rental Jan to March 2026 | |
| Arrad Foot Balconies | £866.15 |
Proposed Cllr Alan Mason Seconded Cllr Elisabeth Donachie Agreed
18/03/26: DATE, TIME, AND PLACE OF NEXT MEETING
Tuesday 21 April 2026 at 7.30 pm in the Community Centre, Duke Street, Askam.
Signed ……………………………………………………………. Dated …………………………….
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