Resignation Notice to Residents

FARNHILL PARISH COUNCIL

I as Clerk would like to personally thank all of the Councillors for all of their hard work, time and commitment throughout their years of volunteering (some as long as 30 years).  They have been changing street lighting to LED gradually lowing energy bills, undertaken inspections of trees, pathways, walls, the play area and anything else that may have flagged up on the village walk about or by residents. Had repairs and blackouts dealt with, Leafleted residents, held regular meetings , responded to concerns’ raised by residents such as overflowing drainage systems, damaged walls, broken lights . etc and tried their very best to have these resolved.  Replaced old lighting with a more fitting heritage lighting throughout the village with assistance from North Yorkshire Council, made sure your grit bins are full for the winter, dealt with any issues over dog bins, installed a pathway and sitting area on the Arbour with a lovely wild heather area.  Removed dangerous washing lines and replaced with a new rotary dryer , 20mph speed limit is now on Main Street, Main Road, Kirkgate, Sections of Skipton Road, Newby Road , Starkey Lane and Mary Street . Managed to get Shelly Well running again with the assistance of North Yorkshire Council Engineers, campaigned to get the dangerous retaining wall repaired at the back of the play area.  Found a way to have a village Christmas tree. Had signs placed on the canal to remind cyclists’ that pedestrians have right of way. Put Emergency plans in place in case of an emergency in the village so residents know where to go for help, and many many more that I was not around to witness.  Thank you so much for all of your dedication, assistance and knowledge.

24.04.2026

NOTICE TO RESIDENTS

Dear Residents,

We are writing to inform you, with regret, that members of Farnhill Parish Council have taken the decision to step down from their roles.

This decision has not been taken lightly. As councillors, we are all volunteers who have given our time and energy in good faith, with the sole aim of serving the best interests of our village and community.

Over a sustained period, the Council has experienced an increasing level of pressure from a small number of residents. Whilst we fully recognise and respect the right of residents to raise concerns and engage with the Council, the manner, frequency, and nature of some interactions have made it increasingly difficult to carry out our duties effectively.

The volume and tone of correspondence, alongside ongoing challenges to the Council’s work, have created an environment that is no longer sustainable. This has had a significant impact on councillors personally, resulting in stress, worry, and, in some cases, effects on wellbeing and health.

We have consistently sought to act transparently, follow proper process, and make decisions in the best interests of the parish. However, the current circumstances have made it increasingly difficult to continue in a constructive and balanced way. No volunteer should feel that their role places their wellbeing at risk.

For these reasons, councillors feel they are no longer able to serve effectively and have therefore taken the difficult decision to resign.

We remain proud of the work that has been undertaken during our time on the Council and are grateful for the support of the many residents who have engaged positively and constructively.

We sincerely hope that, moving forward, a more respectful and supportive environment can be established to enable future councillors to serve the community effectively.

Yours sincerely,
Farnhill Parish Council