2025 | Knutsford Town Council

19Sep2025

Town Centre Masterplan Meeting

A timeline has been produced to develop a masterplan for Knutsford Town Centre by December 2026.

Developing a masterplan for the future of the town centre is one of the town council’s core strategic objectives, and a working group of councillors has agreed a plan to see the document prepared over the next year.

The aim of the masterplan will be to deliver a consensus view on how the town centre should develop and tackle long standing issues of the conflict between traffic and pedestrians as well as developing proposals to ensure the continued success and vitality of the town centre.

The masterplan will comprise four chapters:

Movement and Access
Public Realm and Placemaking
Development Opportunities
Economy and Uses

Cllr Christopher Gray will lead the Movement and Access chapter which will look at issues such as traffic, pedestrian access and parking. Public Realm and Placemaking will be led by Cllr Matthew Robertson, exploring streets, public spaces, materials, street furniture and heritage.

Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley will lead the development opportunities theme, looking at revitalising underused spaces in the town centre. Cllr April Johnson, who chairs the council’s Town Centre Committee, will lead the Economy and Uses theme, which will look at the evening and cultural economy, town centre facilities and what uses the town needs.

To launch the new process, the council is hosting two information and discussion sessions at Knutsford Market Hall on Wednesday 1^st October at 1pm and 7pm. The council will provide more information on previous proposals for the town centre, the timeline to develop this plan and facilitate discussion on issues that the four themes need to investigate.

The council is also inviting up to seven residents to join one of each of the four thematic groups and help develop the proposes for that chapter. Residents can find out more at one of the sessions, or by emailing townclerk@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.

18Sep2025

Pollinator photography competition winners announced

The winners of a competition which saw individuals to connect with nature, hone their photography skills, and contribute to a significant environmental cause have been announced.

Knutsford Town Council launched the photography competition as part of its Knutsford Bee Trail, to encourage residents to take a look at pollinators in action. The winners were announced and prizes awarded at Picnic in the Park on Sunday 14^th September.

The winners were:

Adult: Camera Category

1st Rebecca Ashworth

2nd Rebecca Ashworth

3rd Roger Hume

Adult: Phone Category

1st Helen Brownlie

2nd Simon Cronan

3rd Roger Hume

Under 17s

1^st Michael Taberner

Karl Creaser of Knutsford Photographic Society said “Knutsford Photographic Society was delighted to support and judge the town council’s photo competition as part of the launch of its award winning bee trail.”

The overall standard of entries was high and it was particularly pleasing to see entrants attempt to capture images of pollinators flying into a flower – and getting both in focus! Very many congratulations to all those who were placed in the top three and especially to the winners of the three categories.” Karl added

Knutsford Town Council has been leading a year of activity focused on supporting pollinator insects through its Nature Action Plan. Central to this was the launch of the Knutsford Bee Trail in May, a 3.5m figure-of-eight walk around pollinator friendly spaces in Knutsford which saw the council receive a Bees Needs’ Award from Defra earlier this summer.

The Knutsford Photographic Society is a friendly, enthusiastic group of photographers who aim to have fun while not always taking themselves too seriously. They hold regular meetings and a number of club competitions throughout the year.

12Sep2025

Heritage Open Days 2025

Get ready to explore Knutsford’s rich history! A packed program of heritage events is coming to town this week as part of the national Heritage Open Days festival.

Knutsford Town Council has coordinated a programme of activity as part of the heritage festival which aims to celebrate the rich heritage across the UK, working with local historians and heritage sites to present a town-wide programme.

This year’s theme is architecture, a perfect fit for Knutsford’s stunning streets and buildings. Highlights include:

A self-guided Blue Plaque Tour to discover the stories behind the town’s historic landmarks.
A family-friendly Lego building session in Knutsford Market Hall where you can construct your own dream house or a local landmark.
A visit to Tabley House, the former home of the Leicester family, featuring state rooms with paintings by renowned artists like Turner, Lely, and Lawrence.
A talk from local historian Jenny Collis on the Knutsford workhouse
A visit to Brook Street Chapel for a display on local church architecture with pictures and poems related to Brook Street Chapel over the years and children’s activities.
A guided walk of the town centre lasting just over an hour.
A presentation from the Knutsford U3A Architecture group on Knutsford Architects and Buildings

Tim Banks of Knutsford Photographic Society said, “Our blue plaque trail is a great way to explore Knutsford. We’ve designed the trail to be enjoyed by all ages and hope people discover a little more of the stories behind this historic town. Try and answer the questions for each plaque, and learn a few of the town’s little secrets. You can do it in your own time and if you need a break, you are never far from a pub, café or restaurant. Please pick up the trail leaflet at the Heritage Centre’’

All events are free and will take place from September 18th to 21st. While the programme is free, some talks and walks have limited space and require advance booking.

For full details, booking information, and a complete schedule of events, visit the Heritage Open Days website. Printed guides are also available from the Heritage Centre, Brook St Heritage Site, Knutsford Library, Council Offices, and various businesses throughout the town.

11Sep2025

Community Survey on new building and open space enhancements

A new community survey is providing residents with the opportunity to input on two community projects: the development of a new community building on Longridge and enhancements at St Helena’s Field.

St Helana’s Field is a large open space on Longridge, next to St John’s Wood and containing the ancient site of the church of St Helena. The Town Council has prepared proposals to enhance the open space with a focus on promoting biodiversity; measures include leaving areas unmown to support pollinating insects, additional tree planting, including a community orchard, and planting a hedge around the site.

The proposals are also to look at installing benches and, longer term, hardstanding paths to help cross the site during winter. The initial proposals were developed by volunteers and refined following engagement with Cheshire East Council which owns the site. Subject to the survey responses, some planting could take place this winter as part of the council’s Nature Action Plan work.

Across the road from this open space is the site which last year was approved for a development of 225 houses. This development, which has outline planning permission, will be required to provide a new community building and gift it to the Town Council.

The survey aims to help the council’s Longridge Community Building working group develop plans for this new building and better negotiate with the developers to secure the maximum possible benefit for the community. The council is also undertaking a review of existing community venues to evidence what the town needs from a new public building in this area of town.

The survey is open to all residents and can be access at www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/survey. Paper surveys are being delivered to houses in the Cross Town and St John’s Wood wards, and for residents outside these areas, can be requested by contacting the Town Council on 01565 653 929.

The survey closes on Friday 10^th October.

5Sep2025

Organic grocer opens in Market Hall

Knutsford Market Hall is delighted to announce the opening of its new organic greengrocer, York & Co. – The Grocer, bringing a new destination for fresh, organic produce in the town centre.

York & Co. – The Grocer is founded on the principle of providing high-quality, sustainably sourced food with a focus on supporting farmers and producers. The store will offer a wide range of organic fruits and vegetables and juices.

Alex Molloy owner of York & Co. – The Grocer said, “We’re so excited to open our doors at Knutsford Market Hall and be part of such a vibrant community. York + Co. is all about celebrating what’s in season, showcasing amazing growers and farms— from purple sprouting broccoli from Pollybell Farms to fennel from Strawberry Fields. We want to make it easier for people to enjoy fresh, organic food that’s good for you, good for the planet, and grown with care. Opening week has already shown us how much love there is locally for organic produce, and we can’t wait to keep sharing it with our community — including our weekly veg boxes and cold-pressed juices, which are coming very soon.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, said, “We are delighted that York & Co have joined our market hall family. The market now offers a one stop shop for bread, pastries, meat, poultry, eggs and a fantastic new greengrocer. Our new grocer is set to become a vibrant hub for food lovers and a cornerstone of the community.”

The full list of market traders are as follows –

The Market Café
Thai Kitchen
Polka Bakery
Market Hall Barber
Slipped Discs
Cheshire Party Show
Market Hall Butcher
Knutsford Mobile
York & Co. – The Grocer.

Knutsford Market Hall is open every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and every Makers Market Sunday. It will also be open for the Christmas Markets on 29^th and 30^th November.

Pop-ups can apply to trade via https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/market-hall/trade

3Sep2025

Children’s Reading Activities at Knutsford Library Supported by Community Grant Scheme

To support their annual Summer Reading Challenge, Knutsford Library has been awarded £400 as part of the Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme.

The library is delivering a programme of events and activities to encourage reading and library membership over the summer holidays, running fun events along the way to increase enthusiasm for reading amongst local children. The initiative also aims to precent a dip in literacy levels over the break.

Cheshire East libraries, including Knutsford Library, aim to become the venue of choice for enabling and connecting residents to enrichment within their lives. Library services and spaces are designed to meet community needs by providing free access to books, e-resources, information and computers. In doing so, they support learning, improve literacy and contribute to the health, wellbeing and resilience of the local community.

To find out more about library services, please visit https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/libraries/nearest-library/knutsford_library.aspx or call 01625 374873.

The Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme provides grants of up to £1,500 to support community projects and activities within Knutsford. Funding priorities include providing services/opportunities for young people or older people, providing new or improved assets or services for the community and enhancing the profile or reputation of the Town.

The next deadline for applications is 31^st December. For more information visit: https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/community-grants.

2Sep2025

Tabley Hill Chapel Open Day and Cemetery Tour

Tabley Hill Chapel at Knutsford Cemetery is opening its doors for its first ever open day – and you’re invited!

From 10 am to 12 pm on Saturday 11^th October, we’re giving you the perfect opportunity to see inside this incredible venue as well as finding out more about Knutsford Cemetery. Our friendly staff will be on hand to show you around the chapel and answer any questions you may have about hiring it for weddings, funerals and other events. The team has a wealth of knowledge from wedding logistics to memorial maintenance and can guide you through the important steps of creating a special event.

Tucked away on the outskirts of Knutsford, the Grade II listed Edwardian chapel boasts beautiful stained-glass windows, a light and versatile octagonal central room and a range of facilities – including a modern kitchenette for basic refreshments.

During the day, local historian Jenny Collis will also be offering a tour of the cemetery, sharing history and insight into some of the interesting people at rest in the grounds. The tour will run from 10.30 am to approximately 11.15 am. No need to book but please arrive for 10.15 am.

Jeanette Hine, Corporate Support Manager at Knutsford Town Council commented “This is a fantastic opportunity to witness and learn more about one of Knutsford’s most intimate venues. The chapel is an important place which serves our community members as they honour important milestones, as well as providing space for informal occasions.”

The chapel is available to host weddings, funerals and many other events including community and commercial uses.

For further information about the open day and general enquiries, please contact Georgia Padfield or Jo Arch at enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.

If you’d like to learn more about hiring the space, please visit https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/chapel.

28Aug2025

The Haunted Table Launches

Knutsford is serving up a new kind of fright! Knutsford Ghost Walks and Taste Knutsford have joined forces to launch the Haunted Table, a unique “ghost and grub” walking tour.

This new experience combines a spooky stroll through Knutsford’s historic streets with delicious food and drink stops. The tour will feature three culinary highlights: Morgan Edwards Fine Wines and Spirits, Evuna, and the Rose and Crown. Not only are these venues known for their great food, but they are also historic buildings with their own tales of the supernatural.

“We are delighted to be working with Taste Knutsford,” said George Williams, who runs Knutsford Ghost Walks. “Our ghost walks are all about exploring the town’s narrow passages and hearing stories of ghostly sightings. To be able to combine this with fantastic food and drink is a great way to spend an evening. The three venues we chose are perfect—they offer superb food and also have some spooky stories of their own!”

Sandra Curties, Knutsford’s Town Centre Manager, added, “Taste Knutsford has been incredibly popular since we launched it in 2018. We’ve loved what George has done with his ghost walks, and bringing the two together was a natural next step. This tour is a great way for people to enjoy wonderful food and drink, learn about Knutsford’s spooky history, and maybe even have a ghostly experience of their own!”

The first Haunted Table tour is scheduled for Wednesday, October 22nd, at 6:00 PM. Tickets are £45.00 per person, which includes food, drink, and the guided tour. The experience will last approximately three hours, and tour groups are limited to just 12 people to ensure an intimate and memorable experience.

You can book your spot on this unique tour by visiting www.tasteknutsford.co.uk. If the first tour is a success, additional dates will be added.

Sandra Curties Sandra.curties@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

Knutsford Ghost Walks – Find the walks on Facebook

27Aug2025

Knutsford at Home Returns on September 20th

Knutsford’s homes and interiors inspiration event, Knutsford at Home, returns to the town centre this autumn on Saturday 20^st September.

Designed to inspire attendees with their upcoming home projects no matter how big or small, the event is the product of a collaboration between local interior businesses and Knutsford Town Council.

Highlighting the vast collection of home interior shops and specialists available in Knutsford, the day includes, architect consults, prize draws, colour consultations, exclusive offers and the launch of new collections.

Design experts and architects will be available throughout shops in town to advise and inspire attendees with their projects. Many shops will also serve light refreshments for a relaxed shopping environment.

Businesses taking part include.

Anna Marczynski Design
Arthur Lee, Toft Road
Bianca Morgan Architects
Detaljer, Princess Street
Hannah Barnes Interior Design
Havwoods, Regent Street
Oil Art Advisory, King Street
OKA, Manchester Road
R.I Home, King Street
Sofas and Stuff, Canute Place
Susie Watson Designs, King Street
Terzetto Stone, King Street
The Bath House, King Street
The Cotswold Company, King Street

The event has generously been sponsored by King Street located Anna Marczynski Interior Designs.

A leaflet containing information about the event including all booking details for activities has been distributed around Knutsford Town Centre. There is also further information available on www.discoverknutsford.com and following @discoverknutsford on Instagram and Facebook.

Sponsor Anna Marczynski, said, “We are delighted to sponsor the Knutsford at Home 2025 event and are looking forward to welcoming people to the official launch of our new studio at 4 King Street. Complete home inspiration is available via design consultations with me and the team and with Bianca Morgan of Bianca Morgan architects.”

The Bath House is taking part for the first time, and store manager Ally Craig Mair, said, “This is the first time we’ve taken part in Knutsford at Home and are looking forward to welcoming everyone to our store. We all need a little quiet luxury in our homes, and our range of fragrances are the perfect, especially as we move towards the colder months.”

Swedish café and lifestyle store Detaljer will be hosting a meet the artist session with Tony Green as well as a private viewing in the evening and Oil Art Advisory will be showcasing their artist in residence David Boardman’s new artwork.

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council said; ‘We are proud to be working alongside our interior shops once again for our third Knutsford at Home. We’ve worked collaboratively to pull an event together that is your one-stop-shop for all things interiors and are very grateful to our sponsors, Anna Marczynski Design. Whether you are planning a full renovation or need those finishing touches – Knutsford at Home is the place to be.’

27Aug2025

Bat Walk Boosted by Community Grant Scheme

As part of Knutsford Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme, Crosstown Community Orchard has been awarded a grant worth £325 through the gift of five bat detectors.

The charity runs a well-attended Bat and Moth event each September. The free event offers residents a unique opportunity to take a closer look at these wonderful creatures, whilst engaging people in conversation about local green spaces. The focus of the event is to enhance awareness of and appreciation for wildlife and the natural environment, bringing the community together to discuss ecosystems and the impact of different decisions on wildlife.

The 2025 Bat and Moth event takes place on Friday 12^th September, starting at 8:30pm at the shelter on the Moor.

Crosstown Community Orchard is an open to all green space where members of our community can maintain and share in the bounty of an orchard. The charity hosts several events throughout the year and always welcomes new volunteers to support their work.

Orchard trustee, Kevin Griffiths said “The bat detectors will be used every year at our event to enable visitors to hear the sounds of the different bats we find on the Moor.

We’re grateful to the town council for its continued support of our work and invite anyone to join us at this year’s Bat and Moth walk”

For more information about Crosstown Community Orchard please visit www.crosstowncommunityorchard.org.uk. The Town Council’s Community Grant Scheme provides grants of up to £1,500 to support community projects and activities within Knutsford. Funding priorities include providing services/opportunities for young people or older people, providing new or improved assets or services for the community and enhancing the profile or reputation of the Town. The next deadline for applications is 31^st August. For more information visit: https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/community-grants.

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