Braishfield is under threat from residential development following recent changes to planning policy. The Parish Council is working hard to protect our village from inappropriate development and to ensure that future planning decisions reflect the needs and character of our community. To help meet the costs of specialist planning advice and legal representation, we have established a Planning Fighting Fund.

If you are able to contribute, your support will make a real difference in helping Braishfield’s voice be heard. Please contact the clerk for the bank details: clerk@braishfield.org.uk

Every donation, big or small, helps safeguard the future of our parish.

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Braishfield Fighting Fund Terms

1. Purpose of the Fund

The Fighting Fund exists to provide financial support for activities, professional advice, and other necessary expenditure that advance the agreed objectives of the Fighting Fund. The Fund will be used to support planning representation, expert reports, communications, and other measures that help protect or promote the community’s interests against the threat of unwanted development. The Fund is not intended for general running costs or unrelated initiatives.

2. Scope

The Fighting Fund covers:

• Costs associated with professional services (e.g. planning consultants, legal advice, technical assessments)
• Communication, publicity, and community engagement directly linked to the purpose of the Fund

All expenditure must be in line with the stated objectives of the Fund and approved according to the process below.

3. Oversight and Decision-Making

• The Fund will be managed by Braishfield Parish Council.
• Decisions on expenditure are made collectively by the Committee and will be taken at an advertised meeting of the council.
• All decisions and expenditure will be recorded and retained for transparency and accountability.

4. Authorised Signatories

• The Fund shall operate through the bank account in the name of Braishfield Parish Council.
• At least two authorised signatories are required for all withdrawals or payments.
• The authorised signatories are:
  • Cllr Jane Bennett
  • Cllr Ian Knights
  • Cllr Richard Brazier
  • Cllr Sally Yalden
  • Parish Clerk – Jane Ray
• No individual may authorise payments to themselves without countersignature from another authorised person.

5. Review and Reporting

• The operation of the Fund will be reviewed quarterly by Cllr Ian Knights.
• A financial summary will be presented at each committee meeting detailing:
  • Funds received
  • Expenditure incurred
  • Current balance
• The Committee will review the purpose and operation of the Fund to ensure it remains appropriate and aligned with current needs.

6. Amendments

This document may be reviewed and updated as required, subject to approval by Braishfield Parish Council.

Adopted December 2025