60 King Street with Bunting

Council to discuss sale of 60 King Street

The Assets and Operations Committee of the Town Council has recommended to Full Council that the freehold of 60 King Street be sold.

Over the past year, the Town Council has been working with Bruntwood to explore options that enable the council to retain ownership of the building and secure third party investment for a commercial use of the building. In March 2025, it was agreed to explore an alternative option where the upper floors would
be converted to residential use with the ground floor restored to a commercial use. Following engagement with the Cheshire East Council Conservation Officer and a number of prospective partners, all interested parties except one withdrew interest. At the February Assets and Operations Committee meeting, the committee considered the output of this work and met with the company which had submitted a proposal. It was considered that the proposal was not sufficiently detailed such
that it could confidently be considered viable.

The committee concluded that during the last seven years all viable options for the council retaining
ownership of the building had been explored and that there was no alternative than to put the building on the market.

Chair of the Assets and Operations Committee, Cllr Peter Coan said “60 King Street is the town’s most iconic building and over the last seven years, we have sought to find a viable solution that enabled it to remain publicly owned. Whilst trying to secure investment to restore it we have suffered the covid lockdown and a subsequent downturn in investor interest. Regrettably, this option has not been possible.”

“Our Assets and Operations Committee has resolved to recommend to Full Council that it authorises the sale of the asset; this will be discussed at the council meeting on Monday 2nd March and subject to approval we will engage a commercial agent to market the property and invite tenders for its purchase.”

“We will continue to update the community as decisions are made.”

The recommendation to sell the building will be discussed at the Full Council meeting on Monday 2nd March. The agenda for the meeting is available here and the meeting will be livestreamed via Zoom and Facebook.

Lee Bosworth capturing some of the pop-ups at last year’s launch on May 10th, 2025

Knutsford Market Hall welcomes small businesses!

Knutsford Market Hall is offering the opportunity for affordable pop-ups for small businesses, artisans, and makers.

Following refurbishment last year, Knutsford Market Hall has an open central area for table-top traders, with stalls just £20 per day. By offering these competitive rates, the Market Hall provides a low-risk platform for digital-first brands or home-based creators to test the high street and connect face-to-face with the Knutsford community. The initiative utilises the newly created central space in the Market Hall, specifically designed during last year’s renovation to accommodate flexible events and casual traders. Successful applicants will join a vibrant family of established independents, including the likes of The Market Café, York & Co. – The Grocer and Slipped Discs.

“The Town Council is proud to provide the Market Hall as a launchpad for small businesses,” says Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager and Market Officer. “By offering these £20 pop-up slots, we’re inviting the next generation of Knutsford traders to bring something fresh to the hall without the pressure of high overheads. Whether you’re a jeweller, or a craft maker,  we want to see your talent in our central hub.”

The £20 rate includes a table, waste and WIFI with the market ideally located on Silk Mill Street straddling King and Princess Streets offering great visibility to residents and visitors. The pop-ups are available on all market trading days – Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and each Makers Market Sunday.

Lee Bosworth capturing some of the pop-ups at last year’s launch on May 10th, 2025

Small businesses interested in a “Startup Pop-Up” slot are encouraged to apply via the official Knutsford Town Council website at www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/market-hall/trade. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis to ensure a diverse and exciting mix of products for shoppers and must compliment not compete with the permanent traders.

Knutsford Market Hall particularly welcomes applications from the following sectors as it wishes to host specialist markets on each Saturday as follows:

  • Homes and Gardens
  • Childrenswear and Toys
  • Food and Drink
  • Menswear and Womenswear

For more information, contact the Town Centre Manager at 01565 653 929 or email sandra.curties@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk.

Volunteers thanked at celebration of volunteering

Volunteers involved in supporting the local community were thanked by Knutsford Town Council at a volunteer appreciation event on Wednesday 28th January at Knutsford Market Hall.

The event brought together members of the local community to recognise and celebrate the valuable contributions of volunteers.

The event welcomed over 50 volunteers and was designed to highlight the dedication and positive impact of volunteers working across the local area. Guests included community members and volunteers, with Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley thanking volunteers for their continued commitment, noting the difference their time and effort make to individuals and organisations alike. Bryan shared insights from his time in office on the importance of volunteering and its role in strengthening local communities.

Jeanette Hine, Knutsford Town Council’s Corporate Support Manager, said “This event was about showing our appreciation for everyone involved with volunteering and an opportunity to thank all those who selflessly support others and the council activity throughout the year”.

Photo by Knutsford Beer Festival Left to right Paul Buttrick (Knutsford Lions) Andrew Molloy and Nicola Arnell (Knutsford Beer Festival)
Photo by Knutsford Beer Festival Left to right Paul Buttrick (Knutsford Lions) Andrew Molloy and Nicola Arnell (Knutsford Beer Festival)

The event concluded with informal networking, allowing attendees to connect, share experiences, and celebrate the spirit of volunteering within the community.

Margaret Hacking, Chairman of Knutsford Talking Newspaper said “Many thanks to everyone at the Town Council who organised and worked so hard at the event last night.  What a nice idea to have all the volunteer and community groups together.  It was lovely, thank you”.

Bridget Knight from Knutsford Hosts said “I just wanted to thank the Town Mayor and Town Council for such a pleasant evening for Knutsford volunteers. It was a lovely opportunity to meet others and chat!”

A focaccia style bread on a serving board with a pot of mixed olives

Giovannis joins Taste Knutsford

One of Knutsford’s most enduring and beloved dining spots, Giovanni’s, has officially Knutsford’s official food tour – Taste Knutsford.

Located at the iconic Tatton Park end of King Street, the authentic Italian restaurant has long been a favourite for locals and visitors alike. By joining the tour, they offer an Italian flavour to tour guests.

“We are delighted to welcome Giovannis as the newest recruit to our tour.” said Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager for Knutsford Town Council and tour organiser. “The restaurant is located in a beautiful building close to Tatton Park and offers Italian dishes we know our guests will love.”

Mario Zico, manager, said “We are Knutsford’s only truly independent Italian restaurant, and we are delighted to join the Taste Knutsford family. We are looking forward to offering tour guests a flavour of Italy as one of the lunch stops. Of course, this will be accompanied with a side order of Italian charm and service!”

Taste Knutsford was established in 2018 with the aim of promoting the town’s independent food scene. The tour runs once a month on a Saturday between February and November, with guests typically visiting around seven participating venues in a single tour.

Joining the Tour: Independent hospitality establishments looking to join the tour can contact Sandra Curties – Sandra.curties@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

  • Booking and Information: Guests can find out more about the tour and book tickets by visiting www.tasteknutsford.co.uk.
  • Private Tours: Private tours for groups of 8 or more are also available.
  • Partnership Tours: Taste Knutsford is also currently running special shorter evening tours in partnership with Knutsford Ghost Walks, combining food with a spooky ghost tour element. These tours run from November to March.
The Knutsford town boundary sign with a floral planter beneath

Call for community to help develop Town of Culture Bid

A call has gone out to the community to develop a bid for the first ever UK Town of Culture Competition.

Towns across the UK have been invited to submit a bid to be named UK Town of Culture as part of a government initiative modelled on the success of the UK City of Culture Competition. 

“There is so much for us to be proud of in the towns we’re from – from the rich, local history to unique festivals and celebrations. They have shaped our national story for decades” said Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy MP “Now it’s time they take centre stage and showcase the unique stories they have to tell. We have seen the transformative power of culture through the UK City of Culture competition. I want to make sure that towns have the same opportunity to make a real difference to their local community and show the world exactly why their town is so special.”

This competition provides a platform for communities across the country to tell their own unique story and shines a spotlight on the vital role towns play in our national life. 

Applications for UK Town of Culture 2028 will be judged on three main criteria:

  • Your story – the unique story of the town
  • Culture for everyone – how the town will design a cultural programme for all 
  • Making it happen – how the town will then deliver a successful programme  

A handful of the strongest bids will be selected to go though to the next stage and secure £60,000 to develop a full programme. Three towns will then be shortlisted, with two runners up receiving £250k to deliver elements of their programme and a UK winner receiving a £3,000,000 prize to deliver a programme of cultural activity.

With a strong community-led partnership being key to a successful bid, Knutsford Town Council is appealing to community volunteers to come forward to lead a bid.

Town Mayor, Cllr Bryan Hartley said “Knutsford has a real opportunity to put itself in the national stage through the UK Town of Culture competition – but we cannot do it alone and time is short.”

“We are calling on business, community groups and residents who believe in the cultural heritage of our town to step forward and support the bid. With the right backing we can showcase how Knutsford’s story, heritage and community spirit deserve national recognition”

Anyone interested can contact Cllr Bryan Hartey on bryan.hartley@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or 07968 544 442

A hedge that has recently been planted

Help plant a new hedge with Ranger Bob

Volunteers are invited to help plant a new hedge around St Helena’s as part of the Knutsford Nature Action Plan.

With generous funding from United Utilities, a new native hedgerow will be planted around the open space to provide new habitat for wildlife.

Hedges are an important wildlife habitat and as the most widespread semi-natural habitat in the UK, they support a large diversity of flora and fauna. They make a great shelter and their flowers, berries and nuts are a vital food source for invertebrates, birds and mammals.

Just over 200m of hedgerow whips will planted around the perimeter of the site, with regular 3m gaps for passing through.

The planting will take place on Wednesday 18th February from 10am. Bring a spade/trowel and help make Knutsford a better place for nature.

If you would like to get involved, please sign up by completing the following form, and the council will be in touch with further information: www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/hedgeplanting

If you have any questions or need to register your interest in an alternative format, please do get in touch by emailing enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or calling 01565 653 929

Pictured James Power of Find Your Backbone, Richard Clare of Clare & Illingworth, Sian Winslade of Sian Winslade Coaching, Helen Jones of Helen Jones Nutrition, Charlotte Montgomery of Satya Sanctuary and Victoria Hudson of Casbah Fitness.

Knutsford’s Health & Wellness Week Returns – Bigger, Brighter and Better Than Ever

Knutsford Town Council is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Health & Wellness Week, taking place from Saturday 14th to Sunday 22nd March 2026. This year’s theme, Nurturing Mind, Body and Soul, invites residents to immerse themselves in a vibrant programme of activities celebrating health, wellbeing, and community.

The week kicks off with Re-Fresh Knutsford, a refreshed community fair showcasing local clubs, groups, classes, volunteer opportunities, and Knutsford’s fantastic wellbeing businesses. Saturday 14th March, 11am–2pm at St John’s Church and Knutsford Methodist Church, residents can drop in for free to explore new activities, meet like-minded people, and discover ways to get involved in the community.

Health, fitness and wellbeing are at the heart of the week, with residents able to enjoy free and discounted taster sessions including Pilates, yoga, boxing, circuit training, massage, sound baths, and hypnotherapy. Health checks and screenings are also available, covering dry eye care, oral health, osteopathy, cardiovascular wellness, hearing tests, and musculoskeletal assessments. Specialist talks will cover nutrition, menopause, infant and child food, posture, and relationship coaching.

The event is sponsored by Clare & Illingworth Optometrists on King Street. Richard Clare, Clare & Illingworth Managing Director said “We’re proud to sponsor Knutsford Health & Wellness Week 2026. It’s a fantastic opportunity for residents to explore ways to improve their health and wellbeing, from eye care to fitness, and to connect with local experts. We look forward to welcoming the community to our clinics and sharing advice on how small changes can make a big difference for your overall wellness.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council, said: “This is the perfect opportunity to try something new, connect with local experts, and prioritise your health and wellbeing.”

Many activities are free, while others are discounted or require booking, which can be arranged directly with the hosts. A full programme, including booking information, is available on the Discover Knutsford website, with printed copies available from town centre businesses.

Businesses involved include:

  • Roberta Beauty Redefined
  • Elite Health
  • Clare & Illingworth Optometrists
  • King Street Dental
  • Casbah Fitness
  • Soul Reformer
  • NC Health & Wellness
  • Judi Quirke Hypnotherapy
  • Find Your Backbone
  • King Street Dental
  • Satya Sanctuary
  • Tor Nutrition & Guided Outdoor Adventures
  • Siân Winslade Relationship Coach
  • York + Co.
  • Nicola Parish – Non-Linear Movement Method® and Reiki Healing Meditation
  • Empower Dance
  • Tomorrow Cardiovascular Wellness
  • K Clinic Dental
  • Knutsford Hearing Centre
  • Stable Minds
  • Carmichael Clinic of Physiotherapy & Acupuncture
  • Helen Jones Nutrition

Photo by Knutsford Town Council

Pictured James Power of Find Your Backbone, Richard Clare of Clare & Illingworth, Sian Winslade of Sian Winslade Coaching, Helen Jones of Helen Jones Nutrition, Charlotte Montgomery of Satya Sanctuary and Victoria Hudson of Casbah Fitness.

Councillor Lesley Dalzell and other members of Crosstown Community Orchard

Re-Fresh Knutsford call for Community Groups and Clubs to exhibit

Knutsford’s Community freshers-style fair, Re-Fresh Knutsford, is set to return in March giving community groups, charities, and clubs the opportunity to showcase their organisation and recruit members.

Organised by Knutsford Town Council, Re-Fresh Knutsford emerged in 2021 as a community fair based on the concept of a ‘freshers fair’. The event gave Knutsford residents the opportunity to discover organisations and clubs within the town and to connect to groups working in the community.

Knutsford Town Council are currently recruiting community groups, charities, and clubs to showcase themselves on 14th March. The event will be held across two venues: Knutsford Methodist Church and St Johns Church from 11am – 2pm. It is free to exhibit for all groups.

Corporate Support Manager, Jeanette Hine said ‘Knutsford is lucky to be the home of many interesting clubs and community groups. As an active member of a local sports club, I know how rewarding being a member of a club can be. We understand it can be hard for clubs to get their organisation known and for residents to find exactly what they are looking for. This event is a brilliant opportunity to connect these groups to these residents and showcase what they do’

Any group wishing to exhibit at this event can do so by contacting enquiries@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk . The deadline for expressions of interest is 13th February 2026.

Piero Tonello of Giovannis

Giovannis now part of the Knutsford voucher family

One of Knutsford’s most enduring and beloved dining spots, Giovanni’s, has officially joined the growing list of local businesses accepting the Knutsford Voucher.

Located at the iconic Tatton Park end of King Street, the authentic Italian restaurant has long been a favourite for locals and visitors alike. By joining the scheme, they offer voucher holders a taste of Italy right in the heart of the town.

The Italian restaurant has an enviable location at the Tatton Park end of King Street and is popular with both locals and visitors. Mario Zico, manager, said “We are delighted to begin accepting the Knutsford Voucher. It’s a fantastic initiative that encourages people to shop local while providing a versatile gift option. We look forward to welcoming voucher holders to enjoy our authentic Italian menu very soon.”

The scheme, which launched in 2020, now boasts over 50 participating businesses. Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager for Knutsford Town Council, noted the programme’s impressive growth,

“When we launched in 2020, we couldn’t have predicted just how much the community would embrace it. Today, the voucher (complete with a gift card) is a wonderful gift for all ages. It’s a point of pride that you can now use it for everything from a traditional Italian dinner to a coffee, a new cushion, or even a chicken!”

Vouchers can be purchased via the Discover Knutsford website or in person at the Town Council offices. Each voucher comes with a gift card, and 100% of the value goes directly back to the local business.

Photo – Sandra Curties of Knutsford Town Council

Changes at Knutsford Market Hall

Knutsford Market Hall is buzzing with activity this month as it welcomes a local chocolate specialist, celebrates the expansion of a popular party boutique, and sees its newest grocer go digital.

The Market Hall family has grown with the arrival of Hattie Cufflin, the talent behind Hot Cocoa. Hattie opened her stall on Tuesday, January 13th, providing a temporary home for her artisan chocolates while her new permanent premises on King Street are being prepared.

Visitors can enjoy Hattie’s signature range of bon-bons and homemade chocolates, as well as access her bespoke cake ordering and collection service.

“I am so pleased to have the opportunity to trade in the Market Hall,” said Hattie Cufflin. “The traders have been incredibly welcoming, and it’s the perfect arrangement. Whether you are a regular or a new face, please come and visit—I’ll ensure your favourites are in stock!”

The Market Hall is also celebrating the success of Cheshire Party Store. Owners Simon and Melanie Naylor have moved into the larger stall previously occupied by Polka Bakery. This expansion allows them to showcase a wider variety of cards, balloons, and stationery. Fans of Polka Bakery needn’t worry, as the bakery will continue its presence in the hall as a weekly pop-up.

Simon and Melanie Naylor of Cheshire Party Store

Melanie Naylor commented: “We’ve been outgrowing our stall for some time, so we are thrilled to move to a larger space. We love trading in the Market Hall and are excited to offer even more to our customers.”

The market’s newest addition, York & Co. – The Grocer is expanding its horizons. Alongside a new range of organic staples and cold-pressed juices, they have officially launched their website: www.yorkandco.co.uk. Customers can now order tailored organic vegetable boxes for free local delivery or market collection.

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager, added: “We are delighted to have Hot Cocoa on board and to see Cheshire Party Store thriving. Offering local delivery is a fantastic step for York & Co., catering to our busy residents who can’t always visit us during the week.”

The full list of market traders is as follows –

  • The Market Café
  • Thai Kitchen
  • Hot Cocoa
  • 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.

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

Photo Credit – Knutsford Town Council and Lee Boswell Photography