September 2026 Newsletter
LONG BENNINGTON PARISH NEWS
September Edition
Welcome and Thank You
Dear Residents,
Thank you for subscribing to the Long Bennington Parish Newsletter.
Your Parish Council is here to represent local people, champion village interests, look after valuable community assets and help ensure residents have access to the information, services and support they need. Whether we're responding to local concerns, working with District and County Councils, or caring for community facilities, our goal is simple: to help make Long Bennington an even better place to live.
Caring for the Heart of the Village
Many residents may be surprised by the range of community assets that the Parish Council helps protect and support.
Our Playing Fields
The Playing Fields are owned by the Parish Council and held in trust for the village. They are managed day-to-day by the Playing Fields Management Committee, whose volunteers work tirelessly to keep the facilities available for sports, recreation and community events. The Parish Council provides annual financial support to help ensure this important resource continues to thrive.
Our Village Hall
Approaching its 40th anniversary, the Village Hall remains one of the most important community hubs in Long Bennington. The Parish Council acts as sole trustee, ensuring the building remains available for future generations. A dedicated committee oversees its maintenance, development and future improvements.
Witham Meadow and the Memorial Garden
From family walks and wildlife spotting to outdoor learning opportunities for our local school and nurseries, Witham Meadow is one of Long Bennington's hidden treasures. The Parish Council also maintains the Memorial Garden, providing a peaceful space for reflection at the heart of our community.
A huge thank you to all the volunteers who help make these facilities possible.
Interested in getting involved? We'd love to hear from you.
community@longbenningtonparishcouncil.org
Meet Your Parish Councillors
Over the coming editions we'll be introducing members of the Parish Council and explaining the roles they carry out on behalf of residents.
Mark Newton Chairman
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As Chairman of the Parish Council, Mark provides leadership for the council's activities and chairs monthly meetings. He works closely with councillors, the Parish Clerk and community organisations to ensure decisions are made openly, transparently and in the best interests of the village.
Mark's role focuses on encouraging positive discussion, effective decision-making and strong communication between the Council and residents.
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Geoff Fearn Vice Chairman
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Geoff has served Long Bennington Parish Council for an extraordinary 60 years.
Currently serving as Vice Chairman, Geoff supports the Chairman and steps in whenever needed. As a lifelong resident, farmer and business owner, he brings invaluable local knowledge to discussions on planning, transport and flood management.
Over the decades Geoff has supported countless village projects and committees and continues to play an active role in helping protect and improve community facilities and services.
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John Leventhall Planning Lead
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When planning applications are submitted to South Kesteven District Council, John carries out the detailed review work on behalf of the Parish Council.
He assesses proposals against planning policies and considers factors such as traffic, drainage, design, village character, heritage and the impact on neighbouring properties. He also ensures residents' views are fully considered before councillors discuss applications.
His work helps the Parish Council provide informed and balanced comments on developments affecting Long Bennington, with all decisions ultimately made collectively by councillors at public meetings.
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Help Us Grow the Community Network Spread the Word!
Do you know a neighbour who would like to stay informed about village news, events and Parish Council updates?
Please encourage them to join our community mailing list by scanning the QR code
or emailing:
community@longbenningtonparishcouncil.org
The more residents we reach, the better connected our community becomes.
Looking Ahead
Thank you for your continued support, interest and involvement in village life. We look forward to keeping you informed about local projects, events and opportunities to get involved in future editions.
Long Bennington Parish Council
"Working together for the good of our village."