PARISH COUNCIL NEWS
Annual Parish Meeting
The Annual Parish Meeting was held on 30th April at the Royal British Legion Social Club and provided a valuable opportunity for residents to hear about the Parish Council’s work over the past year, as well as wider issues affecting our community.
In his welcome, the Chair highlighted a wide range of achievements over the past year, including the replacement of cricket nets, installation of new benches across the parish, progress on the new business plan, and the launch of updated branding and a new website. Members also heard about the adoption of Broadhurst Village Green, ongoing work on the Neighbourhood Plan and Local Plan responses, and the effective use of Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funding to support local facilities such as Lychpit Hall, the Royal British Legion car park, and St Mary’s Church. The Chair also acknowledged that the recent increase in the precept was higher than many would have wished but emphasised that it had been carefully considered and directed towards key priorities.
Those present were pleased to hear from representatives from the Basingstoke Rural Neighbourhood Policing Team, who provided an informative update on local policing matters. Residents were advised to be particularly vigilant regarding rogue traders and cold callers, which have become more prevalent locally, and to report concerns promptly. Updates were also given on issues such as vehicle theft, off-road bikes, and road safety enforcement.
The meeting then featured two engaging presentations on local history. Attendees first heard about the work of Victoria County History, highlighting the wealth of historical material available, including resources relating to Old Basing. This was followed by a fascinating talk that shared insights into Old Basing’s past, including the story of a convalescent home for babies, the village’s historic resistance to incorporation into Basingstoke Borough, and the strong local tradition of community involvement and record-keeping. If you are interested in getting involved with the work of Victoria County History, please contact rogerottewill@btinternet.com.
The evening concluded with questions from residents, covering topics such as traffic speeds, future use of speed indicator devices, and access to more detailed financial information on the Parish Council website. The Chair closed by thanking all speakers and attendees for their contributions to a well‑attended and informative meeting.
Overall, the Annual Parish Meeting once again demonstrated the strength of community interest in parish life and the importance of working together to maintain and enhance Old Basing and Lychpit for the future.
Recreation Ground Footpath
The resurfacing of the footpath at Old Basing Recreation Ground has now been completed. The Parish Council approved a full reconstruction as the most durable long‑term solution, and the work has been carried out by Apollo Surfacing Ltd. The new surface provides a safer, smoother route for all users.
New Lychpit Benches
Two new benches have been installed in Lychpit following requests from residents for more places to rest. Funded by Borough Councillor grants and installed by the Parish Council with permission, they provide a welcome addition for those using local footpaths.
Meetings for June 2026
The Council has agreed to adjust the timing of its monthly meetings. Previously, meetings were held on the first Tuesday of each month, which could sometimes create pressure to prepare financial information so soon after the month end. To allow more time for this work to be completed thoroughly, meetings will continue to be held on Tuesday evenings but not always on the first Tuesday of the month.
If you are planning to attend a meeting, please check the Parish Council website or local noticeboards for confirmed dates, or contact the Parish Clerk for further details. The next Full Parish Council meeting will take place on Tuesday 16th June at 7.30pm, with the Facilities Management Committee meeting scheduled for Tuesday 9th June at 7.30pm.
If you would like to attend but may have difficulty accessing the meeting room via the stairs, please let us know in advance so that alternative arrangements can be made.
Keep in Touch
If you have any question, concerns or ideas that you’d like to share with the Parish Council, please feel free to get in touch. You can contact us by email, phone, or by visiting the Parish Office. We are always happy to hear from you!
You can also keep up to date with the latest news by visiting our website, following our Facebook page, or by checking the noticeboards around the Parish (Belle Vue Parade, Old Basing Recreation Ground and Lychpit Community Centre).
Parish Clerk: Mrs Kate Hope
Address: The Pavilion, Recreation Ground, The Street, Old Basing, RG24 7DA
Tel: 01256 462847 Office Hours: Mon – Thurs 10am to 12 noon
| email: clerk@oldbasing.gov.uk | website: www.oldbasing.gov.uk |