OLD PARK FARM GARDEN GHA: Members Co-operative
5th September 2026
Notice: Informal Discussion Notes (Non-Quorate)
Good morning, Plot Holders,
Thank you to those who attended the scheduled Quarterly General Meeting on Saturday, 5th September 2026.
Under Rule 11.5 of our registered rules, a General Meeting requires a formal quorum of 20 shareholding members to transact statutory business and pass binding resolutions. As attendance fell short of this threshold, the formal meeting could not proceed, and the session transitioned into an informal open discussion and site briefing.
Summary of Topics Discussed:
- Co-operative Principles: An overview was shared regarding how Old Park Farm operates as an FCA-registered co-operative society, focusing on member participation, collective responsibility, and transparent governance.
- July AGM Minutes: Printed draft minutes of the reconvened Annual General Meeting held on 19th July 2026 were circulated to attendees for information.
- Site Shop Initiative: Plans were outlined to establish an on-site association shop to provide affordable compost, seeds, and gardening sundries directly to members.
- Plot Inspections & Standards: An update was provided confirming that site inspections and plot lettings are overseen by Michael Graham and Steve Yorke to ensure plots remain cultivated to tenancy standards and to support tenants facing cultivation difficulties.
- Community Orchard Transition: Proposals were discussed to bring the orchard as productive allotment plot to meet tenancy demand.
- Water Conservation: Discussion covered responsible water use across the site, alongside proposals for communal rainwater harvesting using water butts and storage containers. An enquiry was also raised with the Treasurer regarding recent water bill expenditure to assist in reviewing ongoing site running costs.
- Handling of Site Complaints: Attendees were briefed on how historical and ongoing complaints are managed. The Management Committee continues to handle all member concerns fairly, consistently, and through proper confidential channels to maintain a constructive and safe community.
- Committee Arrangements: At the outset of the meeting, David Murfet announced his decision to step down as Chair, following which the informal meeting proceeded, led by the remaining Management Committee. In accordance with Rule 10.4 of our registered rules, the Management Committee has since convened to address the casual vacancy and has formally co-opted Tom Jeavons to serve as Chair and Scott Nichols co-opted to serve on the committee, until the next AGM.
