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26 February 2024

We are delighted to welcome Peter Mann, and to welcome back Simon Barnes, both co-opted to the Parish Council. We rely on the commitment of residents to step forward and take office, to represent our residents and help to shape our community through the work of the Parish Council. Over the coming months each Councillor will host a surgery, as a chance for everyone to meet and chat informally with them. Please look out for the dates and do come along to say hello and talk about Sway matters. Read about all our Councillors

06 February 2024

Hampshire County Council has launched a new app for residents. Read more and download it today 

​15 January 2024

We are pleased that Steve Avery, Director of Strategy and Planning at the NFNPA, will attend our January meeting to update us on the development at Church Lane, now that the agreements have finally all been signed. Residents are welcome to come to the meeting and hear the discussion. Details will be published on the agenda in due course.

​01 December 2023

Following the loss of Stephen Tarling, and the resignation of Susana Fernandez-Suarez, the Parish Council has two vacancies to fill. If you are interested in how you can contribute to the community then please contact any councillor or the Parish Clerk to find out more. 

​17 November 2023


Our next revisions to the proposed playground improvements are now available to review - and we want your feedback! Please get in touch with cllrbutler@sway-pc.gov.uk to let us know your thoughts.


Full details in this document

30 October 2023

Stephen Tarling

Sway Parish Council is sad to announce that Stephen Tarling passed away on Sunday 29th October, after a short illness. Howard Millett, Chair of the Parish Council said "Our thoughts are with his family and friends. As a parish councillor for many years, and more recently as a member of the National Park Authority as well, Stephen's tireless energy and significant contribution to Sway and the New Forest will be sorely missed."

​02 October 2023

The original brain child of Kirsten Watson, Sway Advent Windows has been running for three years and raised nearly £2500 for local organisations in need. It has become a huge task for one person and so, with Kirsten's blessing, our lovely volunteer Marie will lead this year's Advent Windows, supported by the Parish Council. 

We are delighted to help continue this delightful and well-loved festive fun and hope that residents will continue to support it for us all to enjoy. 

Register your window before 31 October by sending your name and address to: swayadventwindows@sway-pc.gov.uk        

03 September 2023 

View the new timetable here

02 September 2023

The Autumn newsletter has been published, directly to inboxes of our residents, in hard copy from most of the village retailers and access points, as well as posted to some subscribers. Also on our website page where all archive copies can also be viewed.

25 August 2023

Our External Audit for the financial year 2022-23 has been completed and we are pleased to report that there were no matters giving cause for concern and that relevant legislation and regulatory requirements have all been met.

​14 August 2023

Following the July meeting of the full council, members agreed a set of high level objectives and priorities for the next four-year term. These are set out in two slides, and sub groups for each aspect will begin work on identifying specific actions for each, in order to progress them. Residents' comments and feedback are welcomed.

​31 July 2023

Proposed plans for a revamp of the playground at Jubilee Field are now available for view and comment: 






​06 June 2023

The notice of public rights has been published today, confirming access to the accounts and related documents between 7th June and 18th July, in line with legislation. See the Audit tab of the Council documents for all details.



19 May 2023


Cllr Howard Millett was elected as Chair of the Parish Council, at its Annual Meeting on Thursday 18 May. 


Howard has been with the Council since the summer of 2021 and has been an active member since then, including as Tree Representative on the Planning & Trees Committee and as point of contact with the Friends of Sway Station. 

​16 May 2023

Thanks to all who attended a useful meeting with Southern Water; a copy of their presentation is now available HERE.

  

​09 May 2023

Flexford Lane, Sway Waste Water Treatment Works
Public Meeting - 5pm, Tuesday 16th May, Jubilee Field Pavilion

Southern Water Projects Team will attend and give a short presentation on the proposed improvement works scheduled later in the summer at the Flexford Lane WWTW. Please come along to find out more about it and ask any questions you may have.

​25 April 2023

​24 April 2023

Residents attended the Parish Assembly on Thursday 20th April and enjoyed hearing all about the diverse range of clubs, groups and organisations who offer activities across the parish, for residents young and old. We christened the new hall chairs and after hearing from an amazing 25 different groups, everyone enjoyed a glass of wine (thank you Priory Wines) and some delicious food (thank you to Real Food). A great evening and lovely to be back in the room once more! 

​20 April 2023

The Parish Council has published an Annual Report for the year 2022-23:

 

​5 April 2023

Today it was confirmed that Sway Parish Council will elect - unopposed - nine candidates who put themselves forward to stand as councillors at the election on 4th May.


Sway PC has worked hard to encourage residents to stand - if thirteen candidates had stood for the twelve seats, then Sway residents would have been able to to vote for their choice of representatives, but sadly not enough people came forwards. 


Sway is grateful to those who have stepped up. Our existing councillors remain in post until Tuesday 9th May and then hand over to the new members and our Annual Meeting will take place on Thursday 18th May. 


Residents will still need to come out and vote for their choice of District Councillor and remember that photographic ID is now a requirement at the polling station. 


More details here: https://www.newforest.gov.uk/VoterID

​30 March 2023 

We have been notified of a spoofing email attack which sends emails pretending to be from one - or more - of our councillors; if you receive such an email and are in doubt as to its authenticity, please check with the councillor directly or through the Parish Clerk. Never click on a strange link or open a random attachment. If in doubt - delete!

​20 March 2023

 

​14 March 2023

The latest Sway Allotments newsletter is out now! See it on this web page or - if you are a plot holder - join our mailing list by emailing allotments@sway-pc.gov.uk 


We'll soon be carrying out our spring inspections and are always very proud to see the standard of our plots; a huge thank you to our plot holders for their hard work and commitment to keeping the Sway Allotments in excellent condition. 

​13 February 2023

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities advised that the appropriate sum for the purpose of section 137(4)(a) of the Local Government Act 1972 for parish and town councils in England for 2023-24 is £9.93.

This is the amount as a result from increasing the amount of £8.82 for 2022-2023 by the percentage increase in the retail index between September 2021 and September 2022, in accordance with Schedule 12B to the 1972 Act.

​10 January 2023

At the December meeting the Council agreed the Precept amount for the financial year 2023-24. This week the Clerk submitted the formal request to New Forest District Council, requesting a total Precept of £85,665 a slight decrease on the 2022-23 amount, meaning a slightly lower tax rate for each Council Tax Band D equivalent property in Sway. 


We publish all our financial information on this website and so you can see our approved budget and Precept request for the coming year and every financial year since 2017. 

​21 December 2022

We are delighted that over the first four weeks of opening, numbers at the Warm Space have built steadily: week 1 - 38, week 2 - 53, week 3 - 64 and week 4 - 96. Thanks again to the Co-op who are providing drinks and snacks, and to NFDC who have contributed a grant fund to help us cover the costs of running the Centre for everyone. The biggest thanks, of course, go to our wonderful volunteers, without whom we could not provide the facility or - and more importantly - the sense of community which everyone is enjoying. We wish you all a very Merry Christmas. 


The Warm Space will be open from 10-2 each day on Wednesday 28th, Thursday 29th and Friday 30th Dec. 

​05 December 2022

NFDC has launched a public consultation on their proposal to make two Public Spaces Protection Orders (PSPOs). The responses to this consultation will inform any final decision on whether the proposed Public Spaces Protection Orders are made. Read more details and submit your comments at the NFDC webpage containing all information regarding PSPOs. 


Warm Space Poster

​15 November 2022

We are thrilled to be able to create a Warm Space in Sway. A community project to enable us all to come together, informally, for free. We welcome anyone who would like some company, a warm space to relax, free hot and cold drinks and snacks. Sit quietly, meet and chat, watch TV, read, use our wifi on your device, do a crossword, attempt a puzzle, play a game of cards... something for everyone and all ages welcomed (children will need a responsible adult with them). 


Thanks to the Co-op for helping us provide free refreshments and to NFDC for awarding £1000 to us from their Funding for Warm Spaces Grant, to help us cover the running costs of the Youth Centre during the periods the Warm Space is open. 


Enormous thanks to Colin Denman and all the volunteers who will give their time and energy to making this project happen. Sway has the most incredible community spirit - we are very lucky. 

13 November 2022

Sway residents processed from St Luke's Church to join those congregated at the War Memorial for a moving remembrance service in the autumn sunshine. We will remember them.

07 November 2022

As there are no pending planning applications for Sway this month, there will be no Planning & Trees Committee meeting this month.  Two pending tree works applications will be commented on via the Parish Clerk to the Trees Team at NFNPA. 

​04 October 2022

NFNPA Education and Youth Team are putting together a resource for young people to help access green opportunities across the New Forest, including clubs, volunteering, work experience, apprenticeships, etc. It's for 11-25 year-olds to complete and will help shape what this resource might look like and how it might function.


PLEASE COMPLETE THIS SURVEY TODAY


14 September 2022


EXTERNAL AUDIT COMPLETED - Please see the Notice of Conclusion of audit for 2021-22 accounts by PKF Littlejohn. More details on the Audit tab of our Documents Page.

​12 September 2022


We have opened a Book of Condolence for those residents who would like to sign. Please attend the Jubilee Field Pavilion between 10am and 12 noon on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday or any time during the afternoon of Saturday. 

​10 September 2022


PROCLAMATION OF KING CHARLES III

”Whereas it has pleased almighty God to call to his mercy our late Sovereign lady Queen Elizabeth II of blessed and glorious memory, by whose decease the Crown of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is solely and rightfully come to the Prince Charles Philip Arthur George.

We, therefore, the lords spiritual and temporal of this realm, and members of the House of Commons, together with other members of Her late Majesty’s Privy Council, and representatives of the realms and territories, aldermen, and citizens of London and others, do now hereby, with one voice and consent of tongue and heart, publish and proclaim that the Prince Charles Philip Arthur George, is now, by the death of our late Sovereign of happy memory, become our only lawful and rightful liege lord, Charles III, by the grace of God, of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, and of his other realms and territories, King, head of the Commonwealth, defender of the faith, to whom we do acknowledge all faith and obedience with humble affection, beseeching God, by whom kings and queens do reign, to bless His Majesty with long and happy years to reign over us.”

God Save The King.

​8 September 2022


It has been announced that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II died today, peacefully and with her family around her, at the Balmoral Estate, Scotland earlier today.


Sway Parish Council offers its condolences to the Royal Family.

Her duty, service and devotion to the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth was unparalleled. We have lived in a truly golden Elizabethan age, the likes of which we will never see again. Sway Parish Council join with people around the world in mourning her loss. 
Image of info sheet with clickable link


25 August 2022

HCC is seeking the views of residents about 20 mph limits within Hampshire and is keen to hear from as many residents, businesses and other stakeholders as possible, to find out their views on the implementation of 20mph limits in the context of other highways priorities and the County Council's statutory duties to maintain the highway in a safe condition within a limited budget. The survey is available at: https://www.hants.gov.uk/transport/transportschemes/20mph-speed-limits-consultation and should take just 15 minutes to complete. It is open until midnight on 12th September.

23 August 2022

At the Local Planning Authority (NFNPA) meeting on 16th August, permission was granted to the amended application for the Church Lane development. See more details and links to the meeting recording and relevant documentation on our dedicated webpage.

​12 August 2022

The Parish Office will be closed from Monday 15th to Friday 19th August. 

​10 August 2022

Despite a formal request to defer the consideration of the Church Lane Planning Application to its September meeting, NFNPA Planning Committee will cover this at its 16th August meeting. This is disappointing, given the 24+ additional documents added to the portal since the consultation period ended, meaning that no further public consultation period has been made available. See our Church Lane webpage for details.

​29 July 2022

The Parish Office will be closed next week and re-open again from Monday 8th August. 

​7 July 2022

The Parish Council worked with the Church Lane Development Working Group to produce a response to the revised application. It incorporated feedback from the residents who attended the public consultation, expert opinion on specific matters and was submitted on 6th July to the Planning Authority. 


See our dedicated page for details and a link to the documentation.

​29 June 2022

A draft response to the amended application for development at Church Lane has tonight been published, prior to the meeting on Thursday evening 30th June, from 7pm, which will consider and approve a response from the Parish Council on behalf of Sway residents. See our dedicated page for full history and previous submissions.

You can review and download the draft and we ask that any amendments are brought to the meeting for consideration.

​23 June 2022

The Chairman has called an extraordinary meeting of the Parish Council, when they will consider a draft response to the amended application for the Church Lane development. The draft will be published following the public consultation, scheduled for this coming Saturday, 25th June between 1pm and 3pm at the Jubilee Field Pavilion. All are welcome to both the consultation and the meeting. View the agenda with all details

​14 June 2022

A residents' drop-in session will be held from 1-3pm on Saturday 25th June at Jubilee Field Pavilion to provide everyone with a chance to review the amended planning application for the Church Lane development. Comments can be submitted directly to the NFNPA Portal until Tuesday 28th June. See our Development at Church Lane page for more information.

Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/3174647016134459



​9 June 2022

So many thanks to Sway Welfare Aid Group - SWAG for their generous donation which enabled us to replace the faulty defibrillator and failed cabinet at Jubilee Field Pavilion. 

Our new versions are now installed and re-registered with the Emergency Services.

May we never need to use them...

​7 June 2022

Hampshire County Council have opened a consultation on Passenger Transport. We urge everyone to respond to the consultation, to make sure that your transport needs are included in their considerations. 


The consultation information and online response form are open now until 24th July 2022. 


 

6 June 2022

Our 2022 Parish Award winners were announced and presented at the Sway Big Platinum Jubilee Lunch yesterday! Our winners were: Barry & Sue Rickman, Colin Denman, Kirsten Watson, Colin Whitell and Robin Nursery! Many congratulations to them all and sincere thanks from the entire village for all that they do 👏 👏 👏 See our Community page for the details.

 Colin Denman Colin Whitell Kirsten Watson 

​1 June 2022

Exercise of Public Rights - Our Annual Governance and Accountability Return for 2021-22 is now published and Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 Sections 25, 26 and 27 The Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015 (SI 2015/234) stipulate that our electorate is given the right to inspect the AGAR, the accounting records for the financial year to which it relates and all books, deeds, contracts, bills, vouchers, receipts and other documents relating to those records. 

​20 May 2022

In April 2022, NFDC published a VIDEO explaining why they are reviewing their Waste Management Strategy and some of the proposed changes on the table. Today they have provided a document detailing their plans to improve recycling and reduce waste for residents


NFDC plan to release the full Waste Strategy on 8th June 2022 ahead of their Environment and Sustainability Overview and Scrutiny Panel meeting on the 16th June 2022. In the meantime they will be keeping their web page updated  with information. You can contact NFDC with any further questions at wastestrategy@nfdc.gov.uk

09 May 2022

Hampshire County Council’s Waste Prevention team are currently running a survey on the food and composting habits of Hampshire residents and wondered if you might be able to help us by sharing it with your networks? The survey should take around 20 minutes to complete and is open until May 31st. As a thank you for taking part in the survey, there’s the opportunity to win £100 of Leisure Vouchers. ACCESS THE SURVEY NOW 

​06 April 2022


Following concerns raised by residents about the noticeable increase in dog mess being left on Manchester Road, the ParishCouncil - in collaboration with NFDC - have increased and renewed signage in the area to remind the public to clear up or risk a fine. Patrols will also be increased in the area when possible. 


All NFDC bins can take bagged dog waste - there is no excuse and you could be fined if caught.


​29 March 2022

Following the village consultation back in 2020, the most popular communication methodfrom the Council to the parish was voted as the noticeboard. Our existing noticeboard had served us well for many years but was rotting away and rather too small. After long delays due to the difficulties presented by the pandemic, we have finally received and installed the new noticeboard which is standing proudly on Station Road. One side is purely for the Parish Council and the entire reverse is for the community. If you would like to place a notice in the Community noticeboard, simply email or drop it in to the Clerk.  


​10 March 2022

Due to one member contracting Covid and another's unavoidable absence, the Planning and Trees Committee will not be quorate (a minimum of three members attending is required by law) and so the meeting has been postponed. A new date and agenda will be issued ASAP. 

PEDALL poster for event on 17th Feb


​09 February 2022

Please note that our Planning & Trees Committee will meet informally on Zoom at the later start time of 8pm on Thursday 10th February. Connection details at the top of the agenda.

​28 January 2022

The Parish Council continues to meet informally via Zoom and to operate under its Scheme of Delegation. See the recording of our meeting yesterday on our Facebook page. 

​17 December 2021

The Parish Council set the Precept for Sway, for the financial year 2022-23, at its meeting on Thursday 16th December. Following the presentation of an almost balanced budget, Council approved the increase of just £1150 across the year, and this resulted in a total Precept amount of £86,295. 

With an increase to the tax base, this is an increase of just 4p per Band D equivalent property, for the year. 

​14 December 2021

The Parish Council has worked - through the Church Lane Working Group - on a further detailed submission to the NFNPA in response to the planning application for the Church Lane Development (21/00743). Read the submission sent on 14 December 2021 and see the history of the Parish Council's work in this regard, by checking out our dedicated Church Lane Development web page.

Covid Plan B restrictions image from HCC

​10 December 2021

With new Plan B restrictions in place, the Parish Council will make the following changes: 

  • face masks required (other than when seated)
  • the Parish Office to be closed to visitors other than by prior arrangement with the Clerk
  • consider the adoption of a Scheme of Delegation for January 2022 to enable regular business to continue even if it is not deemed safe to meet

01 December 2021

Update on the Holmsley Bridge road closure 

Over the Christmas and New Year period the C10 Station Road closure and two-way signal control on the A35 will both be removed, from 17 December 2021 until 4 January 2022. Between 4 January and 8 April 2022, C10 Station Road and the A35 will be fully closed. Due to some revisions to the programme, the highways authorities have approved an alternative approach to delivery, which means the remainder of the programme can be significantly accelerated. The majority of the work will now be completed before Easter. Both roads will reopen at Easter and thereafter, all remaining work will take place under traffic management arrangements, including potentially, night working and single lane closures during the daytime.

 

23 November 2021

We have been notified of the intention to close the Post Office from 5pm on 31st December. The future of the Post Office in Sway depends on everyone supporting and using it. Send your comments to the Post Office as soon as possible and help us try to save this valuable service.

 

​04 November 2021

Sway Community is coming together to make ourselves greener. We need YOU to help decide what collective action our village should take.

To find out more and cast your votes, come along on Monday 15 November at 7pm at Sway Village Hall. Refreshments available 🫖 ☕️ 


An event from Eco Sway in collaboration with Sway Parish Council. 

​01 November 2021

Following his co-option to the Parish Council on Thursday 28th October, we are delighted to welcome Michael Butler to TeamSway, joining the existing 11 members to work on behalf of the residents of Sway.

 

Katie Walding receiving her award

​13 October 2021

Katie Walding PSLCC, Parish Clerk at Sway has received an award from her professional body, Society of Local Council Clerks (SLCC). SLCC represents clerks to over 5,000 town, parish and community councils in England and Wales and has awarded Katie an Outstanding Contribution award  in recognition of her exceptional contribution to the progress of SLCC and to the Clerks’ Profession. Katie accepted her award at SLCC’s annual National Conference this week.

07 October 2021

The planning application for the development at Church Lane is now open for public consultation. Come to Sway Village Hall on Monday 25th October, from 6:30pm, meet the developer, see the detail and find out how to make your comments count.

More information on our dedicated Church Lane page

​05 October 2021

The Planning Committee will meet virtually, on Zoom, for its October meeting. Please see the agenda for full details of how to join via Zoom, from 7:15pm on Monday 11th October.

Image of council meeting
Donna Jones (far left corner) addresses the public and Parish Council members at the meeting on 23 September

​23 September 2021

Donna Jones, Hampshire & Isle of Wight's Police and Crime Commissioner discusses anti-social behaviour, policing, crime prevention and the judicial system with members of the Parish Council at it its public meeting. Watch the recording of the meeting on our Facebook page, or read the minutes.

​10 September 2021

The winners of our photographic competition have been chosen and notified! Congratulations to Melanie Seacombe (1st), Clive Pitts (2nd) and Karen Lodwidge (3rd) for their stunning contributions. We raised £86 for the Oakhaven Hospice!

    

​27 August 2021

At our meeting on Thursday 26th, Cllr Lisa Thomas was elected as the Chairman of the Parish Council, following the resignation of Dawn Bampton who will be sorely missed. Cllr Thomas thanked Dawn for all her hard work and wished her well from the Council. 

​20 August 2021

Come along to Stanford Rise Green next Wednesday 25th August between 10am and 12 noon. 


Enjoy a free wild play event (donation welcomed!) hosted by Sway Parish Council in collaboration with the New Forest National Park Association. 


Some organised activities including forest art, mud kitchen and a scavenger hunt will be available for everyone to enjoy on the green.

image of notice of vacancy

13 August 2021

​NOTICE OF VACANCY IN OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR

Following a resignation, the Council has a casual vacancy. If, by 2 September (14 days after the date of this notice excluding weekends and bank holidays) a request for an election to fill the vacancy is made in writing to the Returning Officer at NFDC by TEN OR MORE electors to the Parish, an election will be held to fill the vacancy. 


If no request for an election is received, the vacancy will be filled by co-option.


Contact the Parish Clerk for more information.

​9 August 2021

Hampshire County Council with Knights Brown are preparing for the works on the Holmsley rail bridge to start in earnest in September. They have published a newsletter with all the initial information. Read the newsletter here.

​30 July 2021

Cllr Howard Millett was co-opted to the Parish Council by a unanimous vote from members at our meeting on Thursday 29th July. Having already been working with the Planning Committee as our Tree representative, the rest of the Council is looking forward to working with Howard - welcome!

Councillors meeting under a gazebo
​30 July 2021
We held our public meeting face-to-face last night, for the first time since March 2020. We were forced to, by the removal of the temporary legislation which allowed us to meet lawfully online during the pandemic. Everybody felt safest meeting outside - there was plenty of fresh air #covidsafe (and by fresh, we mean cold!). Thanks to St Luke's Church for letting us use your gazebo. 
We plan to meet back indoors at the Jubilee Field Pavilion in August, and will hopefully be trialling new technology that means we can stream the meeting to Facebook.. new challenges!

​22 July 2021

Church Lane Consultation - have your say

Chapman Lily Planning - on behalf of Hurst and Hurst Estates Ltd - are preparing a planning application for the proposed redevelopment of land at Church Lane to provide new homes and informal open space. They are keen to seek the views of local residents to help inform the design and layout of the proposed development. They have setup a website which provides details of the proposed development and invites your feedback and comments. Respond to the Consultation today!


https://churchlane.clplanning.co.uk/

​19 July 2021

Photo Competition
Many of us who intended to open our gardens for Sway Open Gardens in May understand the reasons it has been postponed. However we still want to show off all our hard work, and wonderful creations, whether flower, fruit, vegetable or all three!
So, for a £3.00 entrance fee please take a digital photo of your garden and email it to Katie, the Parish Clerk, at clerk@sway-pc.gov.uk. All proceeds will go to Oakhaven Hospice who are the beneficiaries of Sway Open Gardens.
Closing date 31 July 2021
First prize is £20, second prize £10 and third £5 worth of garden vouchers.
Get snapping! 😃

​1 July 2021

The Parish Council is delighted to host both the Carnival Fete and Dog Show (Saturday 3rd July) and End Show (10th July) at Jubilee Field. 


There will be some changes, as you would expect, to ensure everyone can attend safely. However, we are aware that some people may feel concerned about attending, or anxious at the thought of surrounding themselves with people after being locked down and distanced for so long. 


We urge all residents who decide to attend to be respectful of others, ensuring they apply suitable distancing and other actions that may still be required such as hand sanitisation, or wearing a mask.


Huge thanks to the Carnival Committee for their tireless work to bring the village its most important week in the annual calendar!

​28 June 2021

Have you seen the newly refurbished phone box? 


It has been lovingly treated to repairs, sanding and painting, and some new windows and signage as well. Many thanks to Simon and Paul for their hard work. 


The books have been sorted and replenished and the children's book swap is back in business again. For now, however, no further contributions are needed so you can take rather than swap - we have a stock of donated books stored so that we can regularly replenish. 


Please encourage your children and their friends to take a book they would like to read 😀

17 June 2021



​15 June 2021

Local NHS Services and partners are working together to redevelop part of the Ashurst Hospital site in the new Forest to create a Health and Wellbeing Centre for Children, Young People and Families. We are unable to carry out any face to face engagement with local families due to Covid so are having to find other ways to reach out to them.

 

We are inviting children and young people (and their families of course) to help us design some of the external landscaped space around the planned new centre.  The closing date for sending ideas is Friday 9 July. This NHS Flyer contains all the details.

 

Ashurst Hospital currently accommodates the New Forest Birth Centre and is a local hub for CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) so local families and young people may already know the site and therefore be interested in helping us plan for its future.


​28 May 2021

As we start to emerge from the pandemic and start to return to 'normal' the Parish Council is delighted to see activities starting up again at Jubilee Field. Most recently, two new yoga classes have started at the Jubilee Field Pavilion

  • Monday evening at 6:15pm
  • Wednesday morning at 9:15am

We are looking forward to welcoming back our friends at the NHS who will hopefully restart the pulmonary rehabilitation clinics in the summer. 

1 May 2021

2021 Parish Award Winners were presented with awards and hampers by the Chairman, Cllr Dawn Bampton:

    

29 April 2021

At our virtual Parish Assembly, along with the Annual Report presented by the Chairman and Clerk, a video compilation from Sway groups and associations was played. Watch the video any time.

20 April 2021

A casual vacancy has been confirmed and anyone interested in becoming a parish councillor is invited to contact the Parish Clerk or any of our Councillors to find out more. 

Expressions of interest should be submitted to the Parish Clerk 

image of notice of vacancy

26 March 2021

​NOTICE OF VACANCY IN OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR

Following a resignation, the Council has a casual vacancy. If, by 19 April (14 days after the date of this notice excluding weekends and bank holidays) a request for an election to fill the vacancy is made in writing to the Returning Officer at NFDC by TEN OR MORE electors to the Parish, an election will be held to fill the vacancy. If no request for an election is received, the vacancy will be filled by co-option.

Census Day 21 March 2021
There is still time to get your access code and fill in the Census online on 21 March

​​18 March 2021

The Parish Council has been compiling a welcome pack for new residents; during the pandemic we are unable to pack and distribute hard copies, but have instead compiled a Welcome web page full of useful information for those new to Sway. Some of our longer term residents may also find it helpful! Email the Clerk if you have any suggestions for additions.

Graphic for SPC Awards 2021

​15 March 2021

The Parish Council has launched the Awards for 2021 and will announce the winners at the virtual Parish Assembly to be live streamed on Thursday 29th April. Please review the rules and complete a nomination form and send it to the Parish Clerk before 14th April

​8 March 2021

The Parish Council is pleased to have awarded a total of £1450 in grants to various Sway based organisations. After such a difficult year, funds to help clubs and groups are well invested for all residents to benefit from. For details of those awarded, please see the minutes from the Council's February meeting.


Forest Organisations logos

​3 March 2021

The bird nesting season runs from 1st March to late July. We all have a duty to support the initiatives from Forestry England, the New Forest National Park Authority and other local organisations to recognise the importance of this habitat to our many rare ground nesting birds, such as the lapwing, nightjar and curlew. The New Forest is one of the last places in the UK where these birds can still be found and helping them to breed successfully is now critical to their survival. Please observe the orange warning signs and red 'stop' signs which will be located in the vicinity of identified nesting sites. Some car parks may also be closed. With such a vast landscape you can definitely find somewhere to walk without negatively impacting nature, and further help by sticking to the main tracks and keeping dogs on a lead

​12 February 2021

We are delighted to achieve this award from NALC in recognition of operating lawfully and within standard practice, demonstrating our commitment to continuous improvement and development. Our next challenge will be to be accredited as a Quality Council. 

3 February 2021

Following the village consultation in the Autumn of 2020, the Parish Council has now collated, analysed and published the results from 753 residents who took the time to respond. We are very grateful for all those who took the time to respond. Review the results and analysis PDF, and download if you wish 

Grant application advert

​1 February 2021

At its January meeting, the Parish Council confirmed that it would like to receive applications from Sway groups, organisations and charities (eligibility terms apply) for grant funding. Applications received before 19th February will be considered at the 25th February meeting. See the Grant Policy and Application Form

​29 January 2021

Our new parish newsletter has launched. All residents will receive a paper copy of the first edition, and we ask you to sign up to receive it via email going forwards. For those without email, sign up for a paper copy is also available. We look forward to your feedback.

​8 January 2021

The Parish Council approved a Precept request of £85,145 for the financial year 2021-22. This represents a 57p increase per month, per Band D equivalent property paying council tax in Sway. For more details you can review the approved budget for 2021-22. 

New Logo

18 December 2020


The Council has adopted a new logo and we hope you like it.

 
 

​7 December 2020

Following correspondence with residents on Church Lane, reporting their concerns about traffic speed and safety, the Parish Council wrote to Hampshire Highways to ask them to consider the issues and the idea of passing places to help ease the congestion. Please see the full response from Hampshire Highways.

​1 December 2020


Sway Advent Windows - the trail has begun! 

Maps are £2 each and are on sale in Budgens, Central, Sway Butchers and Winkworth.
Another excellent village venture, created and managed by volunteer residents, led by Kirsten Watson. Our community is amazing! Thank you 

18 November 2020

Do you have an interest and knowledge in trees? 
Do you live in Sway and could help the Parish Council to respond to tree work applications in an unbiased and impartial way?

You do not need to be a Parish Councillor in order to carry out this role with us. You can be co-opted to our Planning Committee as a non-voting member, and report to them (either by attending our - currently virtual - monthly meeting or by writing a report). We typically get 1-3 applications a month, and they could be for any trees on any property within the Civil Parish of Sway.

If you might be interested, or would like to chat about this, please contact the Parish Clerk 

8 November 2020

At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.

5 November 2020

Carriageway resurfacing and ditch clearance works on Mill Lane have been reprogrammed, from the junction with Pitmore Lane for a length of approximately 175 metres. The works will now start on Monday 9th November 2020, and expected to take up to 5 days to complete (week days only) during which time the road will be closed to vehicular traffic between 07:30 – 18:00hrs. The road will be open during the evenings and over the weekend. 

4 November 2020

At its October meeting, the Council elected a new Chairman and Vice Chairman. Congratulations to Cllr Dawn Bampton who becomes Chairman with immediate effect, working with Cllr Lisa Thomas as Vice Chairman. Cllr Stephen Tarling was thanked for all his hard work during his term as Chairman of the Parish Council. 

​21 October 2020

The Governments' White Paper 'Planning for the Future' has been published and there is a consultation period ending on 29th October.  National Parks England, the New Forest National Park Authority, CPRE, major planning bodies (e.g. TCPA, RTPI), the NFNPA South West Quadrant and most Local Planning Authorities including the Conservative NFDC have concerns over the centralism and automation proposed.  
There is a short briefing paper from the NFNPA which sets out some of the issues  succinctly.  Responses are invited, including the option to complete a survey.
All local residents who care for local planning and the built environment in the New Forest are encouraged to respond.

​12 October 2020

If you have thought about standing as a parish councillor, then now is your time! We have a vacancy which we hope to fill by co-option - you have one more week to submit your expression of interest to the Parish Clerk (clerk@sway-pc.gov.uk) before the closing date of Monday 19th October. 

​7 September 2020

Notice is hereby given that a casual vacancy has arisen in the Office of Councillor for the Sway Parish CouncilIf by 25 September, 2020 14 days after the date of this notice excluding Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays, a request for an election to fill the vacancy is made in writing to the Returning Officer, New Forest District Council, Appletree Court, Beaulieu Road, Lyndhurst, SO43 7PA by TEN electors for the Parish, an election will be held to fill the vacancy. If no request for an election is received the vacancy will be filled by co-option.

7 September 2020

The Autumn 2020 Allotments Newsletter has been published.        Image of newsletter

17 August 2020

​The public has the right to inspect the Parish Council's accounts for the year 2019-20.  The full notice of the right to inspect and details of how to do so can be viewed in the Notice of Public Rights (click to view)

6 August 2020

​Following a review of the latest guidance, and an update to the risk assessment, the playground at Jubilee Field is now open. Sadly, due to vandalism (when the playground was closed) the climbing frame failed its safety inspection and remains unsafe to use. Please advise your children to stay off the climbing frame until repairs are made.

Children receiving their prizes
15 July 2020                                                                    ​Representatives from Landmark Estates, the Co-op and Sway Parish Council were in attendance to present prizes to the winner and three runners-up of the Sway Junior Parish Council poster design competition, the results of which are displayed on the hoardings at the new development on Station Road. Colin Hayward, Co-op Area Manager was on hand to present a magnificent child-friendly hamper and gift voucher to the winner, 10 year old Freya Marnell.  Co-op goody boxes and a gift voucher were presented to two of the runners up: Cllr Louise Clark, aged 11 and Cllr Thomas Clark, aged 8. Unfortunately, 9 year old Cllr Aaron Marshall was unable to attend but Cllr (and Vice Chair) Dawn Bampton from the Parish Council was on hand to accept Aaron's prize on his behalf. Landmark Estates' Managing Director, James Bradley also presented a £500 cheque to the Junior Parish Council.

26 June 2020

The Parish Council meeting was streamed live to our Facebook page on Thursday 25th June and we were delighted to see a number of residents used the opportunity to view the meeting. All virtual meetings will now be streamed to our Facebook page and recordings held there in line with our Audio/Video recording policy.


18 May 2020

Click Allotments Newsletter read the latest edition                    Allotments newsletter page 1  Allotments newsletter page 2  Allotments newsletter page 3 

25 March 2020

Our new information portal is live at www.swaycovid-19.info so please bookmark and visit regularly for updates. 

​24 March 2020

Sway Parish Council has today closed down the Jubilee Field Pavilion, and shut the children's playground. All tennis courts will also be closed. Stanford Rise Green and the grounds at Jubilee Field will remain accessible for individual exercise (walking, running, cycling) but the Government guidelines stipulate gatherings of no more than 2 unless from the same household and we ask residents to adhere to this. Current guidance confirms that the Allotments can stay open, but only for plot holders and not wider family or friends, and the same social distancing and hand washing guidelines must apply.


The Parish Office will be closed. The Parish Clerk continues to work remotely, and the phone line 01590 718116 will be answered where possible during the duty hours of Mondays 10am-1pm, Tuesdays 11am-2pm and Thursdays 3-6pm. You can reach her by email at any time.

​16 March 2020

Sway Parish Council is taking a number of steps to reduce risk in light of the increasing concerns around Covid-19. In particular, the Parish Clerk has called an extra ordinary (full Council) meeting for this coming Friday, 20th March, 7pm at the Jubilee Field Pavilion, in order to address emergency measures over the coming weeks. We are legally required to hold such a public meeting to transact business, but urge members of the public to follow the guidance given to decide whether they should attend or not. The meeting will be recorded and minutes published as usual for those who cannot attend to stay abreast of Council business. 

​10 March 2020

Who are our unsung heroes? We are very lucky to have such a vibrant community with lots going on. Never underestimate the time and effort that some of the residents contribute, to make all those things happen. We want YOU to tell us who the unsung heroes are! This will be the third year of the Sway Parish Council Awards, and nominations are open now and until the 19th March. You can nominate Sway individuals, and also groups and organisations, to receive recognition for their amazing contributions. Nomination forms are available on our website or collect a paper copy from the Clerk and help us identify this year's winners!

​9 March 2020

The Parish Council is monitoring Government and Public Health England guidance on Coronavirus and its implications for public gatherings and community buildings. At present, it is business as usual; additionally, cleaning regimes have been stepped up to include more frequent treatment of door handles and other surfaces. NHS guidance for all individuals is available at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/ and we advise all individuals to be responsible and take suitable precautions.

image of notice of vacancy

​4 March 2020

​NOTICE OF VACANCY IN OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR

Following a resignation, the Council has a casual vacancy. If, by 23 March(14 days after the date of this notice excluding weekends and bank holidays) a request for an election to fill the vacancy is made in writing to the Returning Officer at NFDC by TEN OR MORE electors to the Parish, an election will be held to fill the vacancy. If no request for an election is received, the vacancy will be filled by co-option.

28 February 2020

This year's Sway Spring Clean will take place on Sunday 29th March, from 10am - 1pm and everyone is welcome to take part. Equipment will be provided and we will arrange for all collected rubbish to be removed by NFDC afterwards. Light refreshments for all those that lend a hand!

30 January 2020

Please see Church Lane Development for information regarding the proposed housing development at Church Lane. Also to remind residents that the public meeting on the same subject will take place at 7pm, Jubilee Field Pavilion today - Thursday 30th January 2020.

​24 January 2020

A casual vacancy has arisen in the Office of Councillor for Sway Parish Council. Click to see notice.

​10 January 2020

A public meeting will be held on Thursday 30th January, at the Jubilee Field Pavilion, to discuss the proposed development at Church Lane. The Council is eager to hear all views from residents across the Parish, as they consider the key aspects which will become the focus of those hoping to engage closely with the developer in order to help shape the proposals for the site. See Facebook for more information

​6 January 2020

The NFNPA who worked in partnership with Sway PC on the creation of wild play facilities at Stanford Rise Green, would love to hear from residents in this short questionnaire: 
wild play questionnaire