Current Issues
Local Planning & Development
Bonsall continues to experience interest from developers seeking to build new housing and commercial spaces. The Parish Council is actively reviewing proposals to ensure any development:
Respects the rural character of the village
Fits within existing infrastructure limits
Minimises environmental impact
Includes appropriate community consultation
Residents are encouraged to review current applications and share feedback during public comment periods.
Traffic, Roads & Safety
Concerns have been raised regarding:
Increasing traffic through village lanes
Road safety around school routes
Speeding in key areas, especially during commuter hours
The Council is working with county authorities to evaluate traffic-calming measures, improve signage, and prioritise maintenance of rural roadways.
Footpaths, Bridleways & Public Access
Several of Bonsall’s well-used walking routes and public rights of way require maintenance due to erosion, overgrowth, or damaged stiles.
Current actions include:
Clearing obstructed paths
Liaising with landowners
Assessing long-term repairs for heavily used trails
Residents may report path issues directly to the Council.
Environmental Concerns
Bonsall’s natural spaces are central to village life. Ongoing issues include:
Drainage and flood-risk management
Preservation of wildlife habitats
Littering and responsible waste disposal
Monitoring water quality in local streams
Environmental volunteers and local groups continue to support conservation projects year-round.
Community Services & Amenities
Ensuring the village remains well-supported is a key priority. Current topics under review:
Maintenance of community buildings
Availability of public transport and rural connectivity
Support for local events and cultural activities
Provision of recreational spaces for young people
The Parish Council encourages residents to voice their needs and suggestions.
Emergency Preparedness & Village Resilience
Recent weather events have highlighted the need for improved village-wide preparedness. Work is under way to:
Update emergency contact lists
Create a central information point for severe weather notices
Strengthen volunteer networks and mutual-aid groups
More information will be shared as plans develop.
Latest Mutterings
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Parish Council Contacts
Parish Council Chair: Mark Harris, Stepping Lodge, Bonsall. Tel 01629 820285; email sandraandmarkharris@btinternet.com
Vice Chair: Phil Addis, Dale House, The Dale Bonsall. Tel 01629 826309; email phil.addis@btinternet.com
John Barry, Ivy Cottage, Bell Lane, Bonsall. Tel 07866 750636; email jon.barry@derby-college.ac.uk
Richard Grover, Nethergreen House, Clatterway, Bonsall. Tel 01629 259558; email richard_grover99@hotmail.com
Michael Hewitt, Newlyn, The Dale. Bonsall. Tel 01629 823097; email mick-janet@hotmail.co.uk
Denise Pountain, 6 High Street, Bonsall. Tel 01629 822708; email denise.pountain@hotmail.co.uk
Mike Richardson, 26 Yeoman Street, Bonsall. Tel 01629 826678; email nom_nom_nom@hotmail.com
Roger Watson, The Old Butchery, 3-5 High Street, Bonsall. Tel 01629 706444; email roger.watson60@gmail.com
Clerk and Responsible Finance Officer to Bonsall Parish Council: Tony Payne, 27 High Street, Bonsall, DE4 2AS. Tel 01629 822311, mobile 07941 358183. Email: bonsallclerk@gmail.com