Shirland and Higham Parish Council

The Council raised strong objections to a proposed 45-home development off Church Lane, highlighting traffic congestion, loss of green belt land, and inadequate drainage infrastructure. Residents are encouraged to submit their views via the planning portal before the consultation deadline.

An extraordinary meeting has been called for Monday 21 April at 6:30pm to discuss the renewal of the allotment lease with the landowner. All current allotment holders are encouraged to attend as the proposed terms include changes to plot sizes and water access.

The annual accounts for 2025/26 have been approved by the external auditor and are now available for public inspection at the parish office and on the website. Total expenditure was £128,000, with reserves of £42,000 carried forward.

A new public access defibrillator has been installed outside the village shop thanks to fundraising by the parish council and a generous donation from the local WI. Free training sessions will be held on the first Saturday of each month at the village hall.