- Whiteley Town Council Newsletter
- Posts
- July 2025 - Whiteley Town Council Newsletter
July 2025 - Whiteley Town Council Newsletter
Shape the future of Whiteley's public transport. Plus surveys, swans, and our thoughts on Wetherspoons!
Leah Scott
June 27, 2025
NEWS
Travel Survey - Shape our public transport and win a voucher ✨
Hampshire County Council invites residents of North Whiteley to participate in a survey about their commuting habits, conducted by the North Whiteley Consortium. Help shape future sustainable travel options and give feedback on how you travel now. Want to complain about the buses? Now’s your chance! The survey runs from June 9th to July 20th, 2025, closing at 11.59 pm. Need a paper copy? Send your name and address via email, or give them a call. 📞 01962 845 638 (weekdays 9 am – 5 pm) |  |
Angie’s Well-Deserved Award 🏅
At the Annual Assembly in May, we presented Cllr Angela Clear with the Town Council’s grant of freedom. Angie has served twice as Deputy Mayor and then Mayor of Winchester - one of the longest-serving Mayors in Winchester’s history. Angie is well-known in Whiteley; she has attended many of the town council’s events and annual assemblies, which we greatly appreciate. Angie opened the skate park and captured the attention and interest of all the young people, and proved to be very proficient on a scooter! During the last 20 years, Angie has provided guidance and advice to the Town Clerk and Chair and also friendship and support, which is greatly valued and appreciated. |  |
 | This is the first award of Freedom of the Town that the Town Council has granted; it is the highest honour that the Town Council can bestow, and we feel Angie is a very worthy recipient. In times gone by, the granting of Freedom of the Town might have allowed Angie to graze her sheep on common land or trade within the town walls. Or even to walk troops through the town with drums beating and colours flying. Today, we just continue to extend our hand of friendship and welcome you to our vibrant and growing town. Coffee is on us when you’re in town, Angie! - Nicki Oliver, Town Clerk |
V4W Consultation Moderation of Voice 4 Whiteley - previously undertaken by Cllr David Jenkins- is now being handed over to me, the Comms Officer. It’s a 15-year-old group, and it’s in need of a bit of a refresh. For this reason, a survey has been created to get your thoughts on how the group should be run in the future. I’d really appreciate you taking the time to give us your thoughts. Thank you to David for all your hard work over the years, making V4W what it is today! | Whiteley Sustainability Creek Cleanup Whiteley Sustainability Action Group has volunteered a lot of time this month, cleaning out a small creek near Barn Farm that feeds into the Hamble. Instead of a haven for local wildlife, the creek was spoiled with polystyrene, which volunteers tirelessly cleared up. Polystyrene might seem harmless at first glance, but once it breaks apart and spreads across water, it affects the natural flow, disrupts habitats, and can have a lasting impact on the health of river ecosystems. Follow Whiteley Sustainability on Facebook or send an inquiry via email to get involved. |
Table of Contents
What’s new in Whiteley?
Wetherspoons The Town Council's Planning Committee considered a licence application for Wetherspoons at its recent meeting. In its response, it asked that the outside area be closed at 11 pm, as is required for the neighbouring premises, to minimise noise for local residents. See the Licence Application at the link below. Hotel Chocolat Coming soon, the new Hotel Chocolat will be the #1 place in Whiteley to buy your luxury chocolates. But not only that, it's also a gorgeous new cafe, which will serve ice creams, hot chocolates, delicious cakes and more! | Looking for volunteers? Tesco Whiteley seeks new community projects after aiding a food bank, taking part in a beach cleanup, and planting a school’s outdoor area for kids to enjoy. They’re eager to get stuck into the next project, and can offer 3-4 hours of help from 4 staff members. Got a proposal or want to find out more? Email Caroline at ✉ [email protected] Got news you think should be in next month’s newsletter? Email me! |
An extra bit of Sunshine… ☀
 |  |  |
The swans and their cygnets are particularly beautiful this year! We love seeing your photos of them. This particular set was taken by talented Whiteley resident, Helen Ireland. Thank you for sharing your photos with us, Helen! 😍
North Whiteley Development News
A section of Bluebell Way is closed, covering the ends of Sandpiper Drive and Fieldfare Road. Traffic lights are in effect, and a diversion runs through Cuckoo Road.
What’s happening with the ______?
 Telecom (5G) TowerThe signal in the shopping centre is poor. Checking your bank balance or calling a friend? Forget it unless you find one of those rare bars. Whiteley Town Council has been pushing for a signal tower for years; it's currently with lawyers, and you will be updated with news as soon as there is any. |  AllotmentsThe first allotment site, Allotment 1, has been completed for some time and is waiting for the developer consortium to complete the legal work to hand over to the Town Council. Work has yet to start on the Allotment sites 2 and 3, but an update on this is expected shortly. |
Whiteley Town Council Events
Meadowside Music Festival
Coming up on the 12th of July is the annual Meadowside Music Festival - taking place at, you guessed it, the Meadowside Recreation Ground! This free event will be held from midday until 7 pm, with live acts, food trucks, and stalls for local sellers, clubs and charities. Bring a picnic, a bottle of wine, and soak up the sun!
Coming Up
Whiteley Skate Jam 16th August 2025, 12 pm - 4 pm at the Meadowside Skate Park Win prizes, learn tricks, watch demos and more. If you’re passionate about skateboards, blades, BMXs, scooters or anything else on wheels, this is the place for you! Christmas Lights Switch On 6th December 2025, 5 pm at the Meadowside Recreation Ground Watch as Father Christmas rides the sleigh into Whiteley, where he will switch on the lights! | Whiteley Fireworks 2nd November 2025, 4.15 pm at the Meadowside Recreation Ground A great night every year, Whiteley fireworks raises money for the Rotary Club of Whiteley, a wonderful group who do a lot of good for our town. Watch our socials to be the first to know when tickets go on sale! |
Local Events we’re excited about
Is there a great local event we’re missing? Send me an email, and it might appear on our socials or in next month’s newsletter.
Bees & Honey Weekend Leah is excited about this fun-filled weekend! Learn all about bees, taste test mead and honey, watch demonstrations, shop local crafters and more! 5th and 6th July, 10 am - 4.30 pm at Manor Farm, SO31 1BH. Adults £12, Kids £10 Midsummer Magic Steam up at the Brickworks Museum The Brickworks Museum bus has attended a lot of events at Barn Farm recently, so it felt important to share their brilliant event at the full-size museum! Pining for Halloween? Learn about magic, myths and mysteries and more. Dog & child friendly. Fancy dress encouraged. Sunday 20th July, 11 am - 4 pm at the Brickworks Museum. Adults £9.50, Kids £6.50. Tickets include museum admission at no extra cost. | Whiteley Farmers Market Promising carefully curated, high-quality produce, we’re excited to browse the Farmers Market. Find the stalls outside of Cineworld. Sarah is looking forward to visiting the Farmers Market on her patrol. Not going to be around? Don’t worry, these events are being held once a month through to December! Sunday 6th of July, 10 am - 4.30 pm at Whiteley Shopping Centre Whiteley Artisan Market Who doesn’t love a craft fair? Our Town Clerk, Nicki, does! Find unique gifts, delicious treats and more. All from local businesses! Find the market outside Cineworld. 5th & 6th July, 10 am - 4 pm Whiteley Shopping Centre Scavenger Hunt Trail Sudhakar Achwal, Mayor of Winchester, & WinACC invite you to explore a self-guided circular trail around Winchester. You’ll follow in the footsteps of poet John Keats’ walks around the water meadows and the Cathedral, and learn about how the area might change in the future. Enjoy a trail guide, entrance to Abbey House, refreshments, and an opportunity to meet the Mayor. 19th July, 9 am - 11 am, Abbey House, Winchester, SO23 9BE. Individuals £5, Families £10 |
Barn Farm Community Centre
It’s not much to look at, but it’s ours. ❤ The new centre is expected at the beginning of 2026! Find our Temporary Community Centre just off Rosco’s Roundabout on Whiteley Way. SO30 2YX. What3words ///mugs.then.detergent |  The Temporary Community Centre |
Events
Our temporary community centre is available to hire for your events. Check out our website for more details and to get in touch!
Doggy Play Dates Hosted by Louleigh’s Sweet Treats, Doggy Play Dates are your opportunity to enjoy a coffee and cake while your dog makes new friends and runs wild in an enclosed environment. Booking in advance is essential as there are limited spaces available. Sat 19th July for small to medium dogs, and Sun 20th July for medium to large. 9 am - 10 am. Free admission. Art with Sian Louise This will be Sian’s third class held at our Community Centre. This time you’ll be learning to paint a gorgeous tiger while knowing you’ve donated to a great cause - Prostate Cancer UK! Who doesn’t love multitasking? Tues 22nd July 6.30 pm, £20 - all materials included. Complimentary drinks and nibbles. Booking in advance is required. Use the email below. Wilder Wednesdays Join the Hants & IOW Wildlife Trust for nature-themed crafts and activities for kids, funded by The National Lottery’s Community Fund. Wed 30th July, 10 am - 12 pm. Free, adult supervision required | Food Truck Friday Our favourite day of the month will fall on the 25th of July. Make sure you pop it in your calendar! If you weren’t aware, Louleigh’s now serves alcoholic drinks, or you can bring your own. You may also wish to bring your own picnic table and chairs, as this is such a popular event, we are starting to run out of furniture! Fri 25th July, 5 pm - 8 pm. Free admission. Mini Painting Day Do you play Warhammer, Dungeons and Dragons, or any other game with paintable miniatures? Whatever you’re collecting - if you’ve got something to paint, come down to Barn Farm to join in! There's free tea & coffee, and the opportunity to meet other hobbyists, share tips, and maybe set up a game! Sun 6th July, 10 am - 4 pm. Free admission, bring your own equipment. |
Clubs
We’ve got tons of clubs that run fortnightly or monthly. You’re welcome to join in, or even start your own. Just send us an email with your idea and we’ll do all we can to make it a reality!
Community Garden Project Unwind in our community garden—meet friends, swap tips, and enjoy the sunshine. Check social media for meetups as these vary with the weather! Home Education Social Group Catch the last session of the Home Ed group before they break for the summer. Kids can enjoy crafts, games and gardening, while you chat with like-minded parents. Wed, 9th of July, 12.30 pm - 2 pm, free event Role Playing Easy, disability inclusive sessions for the beginners, the old hands, the nervous, and those who ‘played Dungeons & Dragons in the 80s but have since forgotten everything’ alike! Thurs 10th & 24th July, 6.30 pm, £2.50 per person. Cash or card accepted. | Arts & Crafts Club Join Craft Club for a fun Thursday of crafting, free tea & coffee, and new friends! Thurs 10th & 24th of July, 11 am - 1 pm, free event Board Game Club Choose a game from our sizable library, bring your own, or join us on Facebook or Discord for more. All experience levels are welcome! There’s always a beginner’s table where you’ll be taught a simple game by one of our volunteers. Thurs 3rd & 17th July, 7 pm, £1 per person. Cash or card accepted. New Father’s Support For fathers of children aged 0-3. Find a supportive network of local dads to share your experiences with. Learn and grow together as you tackle this new challenge called Fatherhood. Tues 9th July, 7.30 pm - 8.30 pm, free event |
Whiteley Sustainability Action GroupThe Sustainability team are doing some amazing work, and they need all the help they can get! Join a group full of friendly, passionate individuals dedicated to improving conditions around Whiteley and encouraging sustainable living. Weds 9th & 23rd July, 7 pm - 9 pm, free event |  |
What will Barn Farm be like when it’s finished?
That’s a great question, and the team are so excited to show off the plans for the new centre, expected at the end of 2026. You can find out all about Barn Farm and the current and future buildings at the link below.
Activities
Looking for a gentle, affordable way to get into exercise? Here’s our list of accessible and easy classes for all skill levels, in and around Whiteley 🏃♀️
Park Yoga A gentle group suitable for all skill levels, including total beginners. Saturdays at 9.30 am - 10.30 am on the Meadowside. Free Parkrun A fun and friendly group where you can walk, jog or run, or even just spectate. Saturdays at 9 am on the Meadowside. Free - but registering is required beforehand. | Whiteley Health Walks A great way to walk at your own pace, make friends and have a chat. Wednesdays at 2 pm, meet outside the Meadowside Leisure Centre. Free Beginner Pilates This Level 1 Beginner Pilates class is held by Meon Wellbeing. Very suited for those with reduced mobility. Book via the email below. Mondays at Fareham Community Hospital, 6 pm - 6.45 pm. £4 |
Seated Exercise Classes Gentle, chair-based exercise class. Perfect for people with reduced mobility. Fridays at Whiteley Community Centre, Gull Coppice 10 am - 10.45 am. £4 |
About the Council
Want to get in touch with a Councillor? Find names, roles within the council, and contact details here.
Council Meetings
The public is always welcome to attend council meetings. These take place in the Council Offices, on the second floor of the Meadowside Leisure Centre.
Committees include Planning, Finance, Highways and Transport, Recreation & General Purpose, and Strategic Development and Policy.
Agendas will become available here as they are published. Minutes for previous meetings can be found on the WTC website, under the ‘How the TC Works’ menu. Select Full Council or the committee you are interested in to view.
Meeting Type | Dates |
|---|---|
Full Council Mondays at 7.15 pm | 7th July, 8th September, 6th October, 3rd November, 1st December (if needed). |
Committees Wednesdays at 7 pm | 16th July, 17th September, 15th October, 12th November, 10th December (if needed) |
Our Staff
All the council’s staff work part-time but will respond as quickly as possible during their working hours.
Town Clerk Nicki Oliver | Nicki manages the day-to-day running of the council and its facilities. |
Community Safety Officer Sarah McCulloch | CSO Sarah is out keeping our community safe and building relationships with schools, our young people and the wider community. |
Community Development Officer Katie Mattingly | Katie is working with residents in the new development to deliver new initiatives, events and activities to support the growing community. |
Communications Officer Leah Scott | Leah manages the council’s social media presence and communications to improve residents’ access to local information. |
Planning Coordinator Hilary Oliver | Hilary has joined us from Winchester City Council to oversee the work of the developers as they prepare the play areas, sports pitches and open spaces for handover to the Town Council. |
Services & Help
Meon Valley Food Bank If you are in need of short-term help with food and basic household supplies, a confidential referral can be made by our Community Safety Officer. Home Start Hampshire Home-Start helps families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives by providing support. My Home Made Better Free, independent advice to make your home more energy efficient. Save money, feel comfortable in your home, increase your property’s value and do your bit for the planet. Green Travel Boost Each household can claim up to £100 to help them travel more sustainably and reduce their car use. Plus, we can now help you pay! Please contact Katie, who will support you with your application. | Citizens Advice Offering free, independent advice, CA can help you with employment, housing, benefits, debt, human rights and more. Hospital Transport Friends of Fareham Community Hospital provide travel from your home so that you can attend your appointment. Meon Health Wellbeing Drop-ins Offering non-medical advice to Meon patients, around topics like mental wellbeing and stress. Mondays, 10 am - 1 pm at Whiteley Surgery, PO15 7LB Y Services Clubs and events for our youth, including specialised sessions for SEN, LGBT+, and Home Educated children and teens. |
Exciting ways to help your community!
Become a Whiteley Womble Litter pickers, hi-vis and bag holders are available if you would like to keep your neighbourhood tidy. Contact our Town Clerk, Nicki Volunteer with Whiteley Youth Club Whiteley Youth Club takes place on Fridays at 6.45 pm. For school years 6-10, the club offers arts and crafts, group games, and discussions with trained youth workers. Donate to Meon Valley FoodbankIf you can’t commit to regular events, but want to do your part to help the community, consider donating to Meon Valley Foodbank. Please contact our Comms Officer to find out where to drop off donations. | Join The Rotary Club of Whiteley as a Member Make a difference through volunteering, to achieve change on a local level, and raise money to help those struggling globally. To speak to someone about membership, check out the link or call the number below. Get stuck in with the 1st Sarisbury Green Scout Group If you love the outdoors and can spare a little time, you'll be welcomed. Adventurer, master of social media or expert marshmallow toaster, whatever you can do will be appreciated with our flexible approach to volunteering. You'll be helping create a positive impact on our local youth. |