18 June 2026 | General Tarleton, Ferrensby
Building a Stronger Ferrensby Together
Chair’s Introduction
Thank you to everyone who attended the Parish Meeting and to those who continue to support village life throughout the year.
The purpose of the meeting was not simply to review finances or discuss administration. It was an opportunity to look at what we have achieved together, discuss opportunities for the future and agree a practical plan that will help make Ferrensby an even better place to live, work and enjoy.
Over the last six months we have seen positive progress in several areas, including improvements to governance arrangements, road safety initiatives and planning for future village improvements. We have also identified significant opportunities to invest available commuted funds into projects that will deliver lasting benefits for residents.
The Village Plan presented at the meeting sets out a vision for improving village entrances, road safety, public spaces, environmental assets and community facilities. The overwhelming message from residents was clear: we should continue to invest in Ferrensby, build community spirit and create opportunities for people of all ages to become involved.
The success of any village depends on the willingness of residents to contribute ideas, time and support. Every contribution matters, whether that is helping at an event, maintaining a village asset, joining a working group or simply sharing ideas that can help shape future projects.
Together we can continue to build a village that reflects the pride, character and community spirit that makes Ferrensby such a special place.
Purpose of the Meeting
The meeting was held to:
- Review progress since January 2026
- Approve governance and financial matters
- Present and discuss the Ferrensby Village Plan 2026–2027
- Consider community improvement projects
- Identify volunteer opportunities
- Establish future working groups
- Agree priorities and actions for the coming year
Attendance and Apologies
The meeting was chaired by Stuart Payne with Michelle acting as Clerk.
Apologies were received from Stephen Jarmuz, Pauline, Jo and Chris, Julie and Ron, Robin Phillips, Sue Aspinall, Rod and Margaret Beal and others unable to attend.
Progress Since January
Residents heard updates on progress made since the January meeting.
Key achievements included:
- Successful transition of Chair and Clerk responsibilities
- Progress towards resolving village banking arrangements
- Continued maintenance of village assets
- Introduction of speed awareness measures at village entrances
- Progress with North Yorkshire Council regarding road markings and traffic safety
- Improved communication arrangements
The meeting recognised the efforts of residents who continue to support grass cutting, village maintenance and other community activities.
Website and Communications
A positive discussion took place regarding village communications and the future management of the village website.
Jonathan Pow confirmed that he is willing to continue hosting, maintaining and supporting the Ferrensby website on behalf of the community.
The meeting expressed its appreciation for Jonathan’s continued support and recognised the importance of maintaining an effective communication channel for residents.
AGAR and Financial Update
The Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) was presented and reviewed.
Financial information presented included:
| Description | Amount |
| Annual Expenditure 2025/26 | £2,077.80 |
| North Yorkshire Council Funding | £600 |
The meeting noted that approximately £10,000 of community funding opportunities are available to support improvement projects within the village.
Residents supported the principle that available funds should be invested in projects that create long-term benefits for the community.
Ferrensby Village Plan 2026–2027
The Village Plan was presented and discussed in detail.
The plan focuses on five key themes:
Village Entrances and First Impressions
Improving village entrances to create a stronger sense of place, encourage reduced vehicle speeds and improve the overall appearance of Ferrensby.
Road Safety
Building on existing speed awareness measures and continuing discussions with North Yorkshire Council regarding road markings and other safety improvements.
Public Spaces and Verges
Enhancing village verges through appropriate planting schemes, environmental improvements and improved maintenance arrangements.
Pond Improvements
Improving accessibility, seating, planting and the overall appearance of the pond area while maintaining its environmental value.
Community Facilities
Developing opportunities to create spaces that can be enjoyed by residents and used for community activities and events.
Village Plan Approval
The meeting voted to proceed with the Village Plan and associated improvement projects.
Residents expressed strong support for progressing the plan and investing available community funds into projects that benefit the whole village.
Community Garden Project
The Community Garden remains one of the most exciting opportunities available to the village.
Residents received an update regarding:
- Discussions with North Yorkshire Council
- Ownership investigations
- Potential funding opportunities
- Accessibility improvements
- Future governance arrangements
- Volunteer involvement
Concept designs were presented showing how the space could be transformed into a community asset featuring seating, gathering areas and improved accessibility.
The meeting strongly supported progressing the project.
The long-term vision is to create a flexible space that can be used for community events, social gatherings, volunteer activities and opportunities for residents to come together.
Pond Enhancement Project
Residents reviewed proposals to improve the pond area.
Ideas discussed included:
- Improved seating
- Better accessibility
- Path improvements
- Additional planting
- Enhanced views of the pond
- Community enjoyment spaces
The meeting supported continued development of the proposals and the use of available funding to improve the area.
Community Events
Residents supported the principle of organising more community activities including:
- Village BBQ events
- Community planting days
- Village improvement days
- Seasonal celebrations
- Volunteer activities
There was strong support for creating more opportunities for residents to meet, socialise and work together.
Cherry Tree Improvement Project
The meeting discussed the condition of the village cherry tree.
Residents supported carrying out sensitive pruning works to:
- Improve pedestrian access
- Improve visibility
- Reduce maintenance issues
- Preserve the long-term health of the tree
The proposal received support from those present.
Community Christmas Tree Proposal
Frank Farmer proposed exploring the installation of a permanent community Christmas tree within the village.
The proposal received strong support and will be investigated further, including potential locations, costs and funding opportunities.
Residents welcomed the idea as a focal point for future Christmas celebrations and community events.
Resolutions Agreed
The meeting agreed to:
- Proceed with the Ferrensby Village Plan.
- Continue development of the Community Garden project.
- Progress pond improvement proposals.
- Continue verge enhancement and planting initiatives.
- Carry out cherry tree improvement works.
- Investigate a permanent community Christmas tree.
- Continue road safety and traffic calming initiatives.
- Establish working groups where appropriate.
- Identify volunteer opportunities.
- Progress community events and activities.
Action Plan
| Action | Lead | |
| Complete AGAR submission | Chair & Clerk | |
| Resolve banking arrangements | Chair | |
| Progress community funding applications | Chair | |
| Continue website management | Jonathan Pow | |
| Progress Community Garden investigations | Working Group | |
| Develop pond improvement proposals | Working Group | |
| Obtain cherry tree quotations | Chair & Volunteers | |
| Investigate Christmas tree proposal | Frank Farmer & Volunteers | |
| Organise community BBQ | Volunteers | |
| Establish project working groups | Parish Meeting | |
Closing Remarks
The meeting demonstrated a shared commitment to improving Ferrensby and making the most of opportunities available to the village.
Residents supported a practical, community-led approach focused on delivering visible improvements, creating opportunities for involvement and building a stronger sense of community.
Many small contributions can make a big difference.
