23/09/2026
Update from Tonight’s Sundon Parish Council Meeting:
A number of discussions centred on the limitations faced by Sundon Parish Council (SPC) and the most effective ways to address both newly raised and longstanding concerns within the parish.
Sanctuary Concerns:
Due to the continued lack of action from Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) regarding the Sanctuary, SPC agreed that the matter will now be formally actioned by the Parish Clerk.
This follows a series of detailed reports submitted by residents which, to date, have not resulted in meaningful progress.
Traffic Calming Measures:
Following longterm concerns raised by residents regarding community safety, councillors agreed that investigating funding opportunities for traffic calming measures throughout the parish must be prioritised.
The Clerk will explore all available funding routes, grants and sponsorship options to support future installations.
Village Assets Long-Term Planning:
Concerns were again raised regarding several longstanding agenda items, including the village pond and playfield.
The restrictions surrounding restoration and rejuvenation of these areas were discussed, with SPC agreeing that clear long-term plans need developing for both locations.
Anti-Social Behaviour:
Reports of anti-social behaviour at the playing field, including digging and damage to fencing, were highlighted as an ongoing concern.
SPC recognises that children and young people often look for ways to entertain themselves.
However, the council encourages parents and guardians to reinforce the importance of respecting public amenities so they remain safe and enjoyable for the whole community.
Neighbourhood Watch:
Cllr Merridan provided an update on efforts to support the local Neighbourhood Watch scheme.
She advised that she has been investigating the placement of signage throughout the parish and the various challenges associated with identifying suitable locations.
To help increase awareness and encourage greater community participation, Cllr Merridan plans to distribute Neighbourhood Watch window stickers and promote the scheme at the parish festive event later this year.
This will provide residents with an opportunity to learn more about the initiative and how they can help support community safety within Sundon.
Parking and Green Space Investigations:
Updates were provided on ongoing reports and the multi-agency approach being requested to investigate the suspected commercial misuse of parish parking facilities by Crown Autoz Ltd, along with the storage of off-road vehicles within the parish.
Councillors also received a brief update regarding investigations into parish green spaces following a recent meeting with CBC.
Cllr Mardle advised that a detailed report outlining responsibilities and boundaries will be provided once a CBC representative has completed a parish walk-through and these areas have been clearly defined.
Permanent Christmas Tree Planting:
Date: 23 October 2026
Majestic Trees will be planting this festive feature and SPC are excited for the joy this Norwegian Spruce will bring our parish.
Late October gives the tree time to establish before becoming the centrepiece of festive celebrations for years to come.
Remembrance Sunday 2026:
Cllr Bates reported that the parish’s usual celebrant will be unavailable to lead this year’s Remembrance Sunday service at our war memorial.
She has therefore been liaising with Father Yenda of St Mary’s Church, Sundon, to make alternative arrangements.
As a result, the service may need to take place earlier than in previous years. Residents will be updated once Cllr Bates has confirmed the final arrangements.
Councillors also discussed the ongoing challenges associated with road closures for the event.
It was confirmed that the necessary road closure applications will be submitted in preparation for the 2026 Remembrance Sunday commemorations.
Festive Lights On 2026:
Plans for this year’s festive celebrations continue to progress for our Festive Lights On Event.
Date: Saturday 5 December 2026
Venue: Green opposite The Red Lion, with thanks to Conor for confirming the date!
There were discussions of a Christmas market and councillors agreed, from the Clerks advice, a fair would require forward planning and diaried to be discussed in the parish meeting scheduled for January 2027.
Sundon Village Hall Volunteers Needed!!!
The meeting also noted the concerning possibility that Sundon Village Hall could face closure due to a lack of volunteers.
The Village Hall Committee are holding a meeting appealing for help on 21/10/26 at 7:30pm, at the hall in Streatley Road.
SPC urges anyone able to support this valued community facility to attend or contact the Village Hall Committee directly to help secure its future!
Join Sundon Parish Council:
The council would also welcome additional volunteers interested in becoming involved with parish matters.
If you have some spare time and would like to help make the community feel more heard, please contact the Parish Clerk to express your interest.
Next SPC Meeting:
Wednesday 25 November 2026.
Sundon Village Hall, Streatley Road.
