Ash Green has a striking new landmark, with the official installation of a new village welcome sign. Located at the crossroads of Ash Green Lane East and White Lane, adjacent to the Ash Parish Council noticeboard, the sign provides a warm welcome to residents and visitors while celebrating the identity, heritage and community spirit of Ash Green. The project originated with the Ash Green Residents’ Association (AGRA), which developed the initial concept before approaching Ash Parish Council (APC) for support in delivering the scheme.
Working in partnership with Guildford Borough Council, Ash Parish Council helped secure Section 106 developer contribution funding for the project, enabling the vision to become reality. APC then managed the formal processes required to bring the project forward, including preparing and submitting the planning application on behalf of the community.
Planning Approval
Before installation could proceed, the village sign required Advertisement Consent (Planning approval). Ash Parish Council submitted application 26/P/00535, undertaking the necessary planning work and supporting documentation required to secure approval. The new sign is a non-illuminated, double-sided village sign displaying the words “Ash Green” in white lettering. The sign is mounted on a substantial oak post, approximately 2.7 metres high, creating a traditional and durable feature appropriate to its village setting. The application described the sign as more than simply a village marker, outlining its role as a focal point for the community and a small-scale piece of public art intended to reinforce local identity and a sense of place.
Craftsmanship and Design
The sign was created by Black Forge Art of Kent, a specialist metalwork company known for producing bespoke village signs and public art installations. Particular attention was paid to the quality and longevity of the structure. The sign panel underwent a protective finishing process including shot blasting, hot zinc spraying and the application of a heavy-duty black coating to provide long-term resistance to the elements. The substantial oak support post was planed and chamfered to create a traditional appearance that complements the surrounding village environment.
The sign sits within an established community space already containing a noticeboard and bench, allowing it to integrate naturally into an area regularly used by residents.
Community Investment
This project demonstrates the value of partnership working between local community groups and public bodies. AGRA initiated the idea and championed the project, while Ash Parish Council secured the necessary funding through Section 106 contributions, managed the planning, installation, as well as all administrative processes needed to bring the scheme to completion.
The result is a lasting investment in Ash Green that enhances the local streetscape while strengthening community identity for current and future generations.
A Feature for the Future
Ash Parish Council has described the sign as a lasting feature that will help strengthen Ash Green’s identity while creating an attractive focal point for everyone passing through the village. The Council has thanked everyone who supported the project and helped bring it to fruition, expressing its hope that the sign will be enjoyed by the community for many years to come.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to stop and admire the new addition to the village and to share photographs through the Parish Council’s social media channels.