A Keppel-Green | Knutsford Town Council

16May2024

Workshop to inform Town Council’s response to first Local Plan Consultation

Knutsford Town Council is inviting the community to help shape its response to the first consultation on a new local plan for Cheshire East.

The Local Plan is a major strategic plan that guides development across the borough. The current (2010-2030) plan allocated over 900 houses to be built in Knutsford. Cheshire East Council is now consulting on “issues” for its new local plan which would set out development needs across Cheshire East for a further 15+ years.

Cheshire East Council has published 13 topic based issues papers covering rural matters, homes for everyone, towns and villages, historic environment, transport and infrastructure and more. These documents can be read on the Cheshire East Council website at: https://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/planning/spatial-planning/cheshire_east_local_plan/new-local-plan.aspx. Cheshire East Council’s consultation closes on 1^st July.

To inform the Town Council’s response to the consultation, the Town Council is hosting a workshop where residents, businesses and other stakeholders are invited to discuss the topics and what is important for Knutsford. This takes place on Wednesday 5^th June at 7pm in St John’s Church.

The evening will see the community discuss seven of the topics each in 15-minute rounds with each topic facilitated by the Town Council to capture everyone’s input. The output of the workshop will then shape the Town Council’s response to the consultation which it will agree in late June.

“The Local Plan is an incredibly important document that will determine how Knutsford develops over the coming years. It is vital that we, as a community, are switched on to the local plan process and play an active role in shaping this plan from this first stage all the way through to the end” said Town Clerk Adam Keppel-Green.

“The objective of this workshop is to engage more people in the local plan process and for you to inform the Town Council’s own submission to the consultation. We know this isn’t the most exciting way to spend a Wednesday evening, but it is important and as a Town we have to be actively engaged in the whole local plan process ”

Attendees are encouraged to read the topic papers published by Cheshire East Council for the areas they are interested in discussing, though each topic will be facilitated by the Town Council to enable all to participate and share their views. The meeting will run from 7pm to 9:30pm. Refreshments will be provided. The community is also encouraged to respond to the consultation directly with Cheshire East Council.

13May2024

Premises costs funded through council grant

A community café and support centre serving the most disadvantaged area of Knutsford has secured support from Knutsford Town Council for its core operating costs.

The Welcome provides support, events and access to essential services for all age groups to reduce the impact of people living in crisis, reduce social isolation, improve physical and mental wellbeing, alongside building a strong and vibrant community. Since its founding in 1997 as a mobile coffee shop it has developed into part of the everyday life of many residents in the St John’s Wood area of Knutsford.

Chief Executive of The Welcome, Nick Sherburn, said “We are absolutely delighted to have gained the support of Knutsford Town Council by way of grant funding. Our respective organisations serve the same community, and we are proud that the Council recognises the vital support and services we provide, and our community deserves.

The Town Council is providing a grant of £20,000 to fund the charity’s central premises costs. This enables the charity to focus on securing income for its operational costs and delivering services for the local community.

Advisors at the Welcome provide support five days a week and can give guidance on matters such as employment, benefits, hardship, housing and emergency assistance. The Welcome also hosts the Citizens Advice service once a month, provides a Meals on Wheels service and hosts community activities such as a lunch club, knitting group and coffee mornings. The Welcome also coordinates The Bread and Butter Thing which enables 80 households to access more affordable food every week.

Town Mayor, Cllr Peter Coan said “The work The Welcome does for the residents of St John’s Wood ward is fantastic, so we’re only too pleased to be supporting them. From providing advice to those in need, hosting a monthly citizens advice drop in and running a meals on wheels scheme, it’s a busy charity and this grant helps them focus on their service delivery”

9May2024

£1k boost to Knutsford In Bloom

A group that works in partnership with Knutsford Town Council to ensure Knutsford blooms has received a grant of £1,060 to continue its work.

Knutsford in Bloom is a small group of volunteers who maintain a number of flower beds and planters in the town centre, such as at the railway station, along Princess Street and in front of the Curzon. The group works in partnership with Knutsford Town Council to co-deliver the town’s floriculture efforts which have seen Knutsford awarded “Gold” in the North West in Bloom competition since 2017.

Chair of Knutsford in Bloom, Barry Tilby said “We are grateful for the continued support from Knutsford Town Council. This annual grant allows us to purchase plants in order to help make the town a desirable place to live, visit and work”

“We are always looking for support so if you can spare some time, you will be made to feel very welcome”.

Knutsford in Bloom volunteers have a dedicated area they each maintain or support the maintenance of – more volunteers can enable them to expand their remit. If you are interested in volunteering with Knutsford in Bloom contact Barry at barrytilby@hotmail.co.uk

Knutsford Town Council is further supporting the group’s work by replacing a number of planters outside Curzon, which are maintained by Knutsford in Bloom.

Town Mayor Cllr Peter Coan said “The volunteers at Knutsford in Bloom do a cracking job making the town centre brighter and blooming. We couldn’t deliver our floriculture service without them so we’re delighted to fund the group’s work”

8May2024

Debt Centre to be expanded with council grant

Knutsford residents will have increased access to debt support thanks to funding provided by Knutsford Town Council to Hope Central.

Hope Central provides a free Debt Centre service to people across the WA16 and SK9 area which aims to help get people out of debt and the council’s funding supports recruitment of a debt coach to help more people access this service.

In addition to operating a food bank, Hope Central has a strong success rate for supporting people into work and volunteering placements via its Job Club, and their Fresh Start course supports people out of life-controlling habits. All of its services are aimed at supporting people out of poverty and giving them hope.

Town Mayor, Cllr Peter Coan said “Supporting those in the greatest need in our community is incredibly important to Knutsford Town Council. The work that Hope Central does can change lives, and we’re proud to be funding them to help support more people in our Town”

The Hope Centre in Knutsford is based at St Cross Church and has about 20 people attending each Monday morning to receive a free lunch and meet people in the community. The charity also runs a life skills course, teaching people how to live well on a budget by considering money saving techniques and cooking skills.

Director of Hope Central, Kay Barker said she was thrilled to receive the grant and spoke of the difference it will make to Knutsford residents “We have seen first hand the darkness debt can cause in peoples’ lives and we have had the joy of working with people, and seeing the difference in people as they become debt free. This money will enable our Debt Centre to expand and help more people in Knutsford who are struggling with debt and will give them hope that there is light at the end of the tunnel.”

Barney Howard, Debt Centre Manager at Hope Central added “People around the country are struggling with rising costs and being on a low income many people can’t respond to this. Knutsford is no different. It eventually leads to people being in poverty. We are so grateful for this funding so that we can bring hope to people and that there is a solution if they are in debt. If anyone is in debt then they can call the freephone number 0800 328 0006 to book an appointment with our Debt Coaches.”

If you or anyone you know is in need of an emergency food parcel, you can be referred to Hope Central’s Food Bank by a social care professional (e.g. your GP, housing officer, support worker, social prescriber, social worker and school etc).

This grant was awarded under the council’s Large Grant Scheme which provides grants over £1,500. Applications are considered annually with the next deadline at the end of August for grants paid in April 2025.

Photo L-R: Ian Albiston, Ian Robertson, Cllr Peter Coan, Kay Baker, Doreen Robertson, Barney Howard, Rev Paul Deakin and Karen Andrew.

3May2024

Council continues support of Knutsford Heritage Centre

Knutsford Heritage Centre has received £7,500 from Knutsford Town Council as part of a four-year support agreement.

The Town Council has provided annual funding to Knutsford Heritage Centre since 2019. The funding covers the core operational costs of the centre, including utilities and insurance so the charity can focus on its efforts on exhibiting and archiving town artefacts.

The Heritage Centre was established in 1989 and is housed in a former tinsmith and ironmonger building which is accessed from King Street or Heritage Way. The premises is provided free of charge by the Tatton Estate.

Visitors to Knutsford Heritage Centre can view the incredible Knutsford Tapestry, displays of May Queen crowns and regular exhibitions on the history of Knutsford. The centre also includes a beautiful garden which features a life size carved oak statue of King Canute.

“Knutsford proudly boasts a rich heritage so its only right we have a place where visitors and residents can explore it – we’re pleased to continue our support of Knutsford Heritage Centre and look forward to working with them through our appointed trustee, as the centre secures a new manager this year” said Town Mayor, Cllr Peter Coan

Val Byrant, retiring manager of Knutsford Heritage Centre who was recently presented with an award for her contribution to the heritage of Knutsford, said “Our thanks go to the Town Council for their continuing support of the Heritage Centre.”

“The Heritage Centre is the jewel in the crown as a tourist attraction to the History of Knutsford. It has the beautiful Millennium Tapestry, which is a must to see. Do come and visit us.” Knutsford Heritage Centre is open Thursday to Saturday at 11am – 4pm.

26Apr2024

‘Take a Seat’ initiative launched to support accessibility

Knutsford Town Council is pleased to announce the launch of a new community-focused initiative, Take a Seat, designed to make Knutsford town centre a more pleasant and stress-free experience for all, but particularly older adults, those with disabilities, and those with chronic or short-term illnesses and injuries.

Starting today, this compassionate program encourages local businesses throughout the town’s narrow and charming streets to offer a seat to those who need to rest and recharge while they are out and about in the town centre.

The scheme recognises the challenges that our unique and quirky streets may pose to some and aims to create a more inclusive and accessible environment. The scheme is delivered by Knutsford Town Council in collaboration with local shop owners, hospitality and businesses. Participating businesses will display a Take a Seat sticker in their windows, indicating that inside, a welcoming space awaits those who need it without the obligation to make a purchase.

“We are proud to support our community with this initiative,” said Town Centre Manager Sandra Curties “Knutsford is a town with a big heart, and by introducing Take a Seat, we are taking a step towards ensuring that our streets and shops are accessible to all, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity.”

The Take a Seat initiative not only supports those who might struggle with mobility but also fosters a stronger sense of community and belonging. It encourages residents and visitors alike to explore all that Knutsford has to offer at their own pace.”

Participating locations include:

Knutsford Heritage Centre, 90A King Street, WA16 6ED
Lost and Found, Princess Street, WA16 6BY
Knutsford Methodist Church, Princess Street WA16 6BY
Arthur Lee, Hollingford House, Toft Road, WA16 0PD
Cranford Café, 10-12 Canute Place, WA16 6BH
The Tea Room, Cotton Shop Yard, 73 King Street, WA16 6DX
Detaljer, 39-41 Princess Street, WA16 6BW
Clarity Contemporary Jewellery, 15 King Street WA16 6DW
Tatton Perk, Malt Street (King Street car park) WA16 6ES
Nxtep Gym, 103 King Street, WA16 6EQ

For more information about the “Take a Seat” initiative, please visit www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/take-a-seat

25Apr2024

Winners of 2024 Town Awards announced

The Knutsford community celebrated its town heroes on Tuesday (23^rd April) at the annual Town Awards.

The Town Awards is an annual ceremony aiming to recognise those in the Knutsford community who work to make the town a better place for all, it is led by Knutsford Town Council and sponsored by the Forum of Private Business.

The award ceremony took place at Knutsford Little Theatre, with Town Mayor Cllr Peter Coan and Ian Cass, Managing Director of the Forum of Private Business, announcing the winners of the 2024 awards.

The first award went to Maya Chudley, who took home the Youth Award. Maya, who is also known as “Peppermint the Elf”, accompanies Santa around town each year with We Are Knutsford and also serves as an art ambassador in a junior school and supports organisations such as CAFT with their activities.

The Community Award shield was presented to Knutsford and District Good Neighbours. Whilst many of us may take for granted the ease in which we can travel to attend medical appointments for many people this can be a great challenge – whether that is accessing an appointment in Knutsford, Macclesfield or further afield. The Good Neighbours scheme are there to support those who cannot make this journey alone.

Retiring Knutsford Heritage Centre manager Val Bryant was “left speechless” after being presented with a special award for her Outstanding Contribution to the Heritage of Knutsford, to thank her on behalf of the whole town for her work with the centre over the last 17 years over which time she prevented its closure and ensured the preservation of the Millennium Tapestry.

Three recipients were presented with a Civic Award this award goes to individuals or groups of individuals who work to make Knutsford a better place.

The first award went to Andrew Mallow, recognising his leading role in the community having stood down in 2023 after 12 years as a town councillor, having founded the hugely popular Knutsford Beer Festival which has raised over £50,000 for local charities and his support, leadership or involvement in a variety of community organisations from Friends groups to the Community Rail Partnership and volunteering with East Cheshire Hospice’s annual Christmas tree collection.

The second Civic Award was awarded jointly to Ann and John Long. Ann and John have supported Just Drop In, the specialist youth mental health service in the town centre. They kindly provide the charity with free accommodation and have been promoting, supporting and fundraising for the charity to ensure its success in the town.

Maggie Clayton – a long serving volunteer at The Welcome who is there two days every week without fail was shortlisted for an award back in 2021 and took home the final Civic Award of 2024. One of her glowing nominations said “The Welcome would not be the same without Maggie, and we all absolutely love her.

The 2023 Business Award was presented to Roberta Dyer. Roberta has been trading in Knutsford since 2008 and epitomises the adage ‘if you want something done ask a busy person’. Roberta is often first to volunteer to support the business community events and initiatives and has been a staunch supporter and welcomer of new businesses to the town.

The final award was the Extra Mile Award which goes to someone who, in their paid employment, has gone above and beyond for the benefit of the local community with the 2024 award going to Nicola Marshall for outstanding leadership of Knutsford Together and helping people in Knutsford find the help they need in difficult times.

Speaking at the awards, Town Mayor Cllr Peter Coan said “This evening is a celebration not just of our winners, but of all those nominated and shortlisted. Each of those nominated should feel great pride that there are people in this town that see you, who see what you do and who value the work you do and the difference you make to Knutsford. To those who walk away with an award, I would like to convey the sincere gratitude of Knutsford Town Council to you for the work you do”.

Nominations for the 2025 Town Awards will open in January 2025 and residents are encouraged to make note of those in the community they feel deserve recognition next year.

19Apr2024

Documentary tells the story of Knutsford during World War II

Knutsford: Tales of War features interviews with four Knutsfordians who lived in the town through the Second World War as they recount their memories of what life in the town was like.

The film was launched with a special screening at Curzon on Wednesday 17^th April where the interviewees and their families were invited to see the film on the big screen.

Enid Leigh, Edith Chadwick, Tony Leadbeater and Bill Cowburn starred in the film, sharing their experiences of seeing prisoners of war, the American troops on the Heath and paratroopers training over Tatton Park. It was presented by Val Dawson and produced by 7Video.

The project was delivered by Knutsford Town Council with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The project aimed to record the memories of those who lived through the war and create an engaging video to ensure their stories would be seen by as many as possible. It is hoped it will be used by schools as part of teaching about the war and conflict generally.

As part of the project, a team of volunteers were trained in oral history recording and it is hoped that this will spur similar future projects. The film features archive colour footage of Knutsford from 1944 and of paratroopers training in Tatton Park.

Speaking at the launch event, Town Mayor, Cllr Peter Coan reflected that due to the passage of time many who lived during the 1939-1945 war were no longer with us, “This serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of projects like this, collecting the history stored in people’s memories, before it is too late”

Speaking after the film was launched, Cllr Coan added “I was blown away by this personal recounting of life in Knutsford during the war and the incredible colour footage of the town. It was a delight to share the premiere with the stars and their families and I sincerely hope all viewers find this film as interesting and thought provoking as I did.”

The film can be watched for free on the Town Council website at: www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/tales-of-war

17Apr2024

Young people’s survey: Final Chance to have your say

Knutsford’s Young People are being given the chance to help shape future youth services in the town by taking part in a survey being organised by a local housing association.

In response to customer feedback on youth services in the area, Great Places Housing Group in collaboration with Knutsford Town Council and Cheshire East Youth Service, is running a survey to get the views of young people of Knutsford on what changes they’d like to see in the town.

The feedback collected will be instrumental in shaping and co-designing future youth services in the area.

Commenting on the survey, Becky Banks, Great Places’ Community Project Manager for the Longridge area in Knutsford, said “Great Places is an organisation rooted in social purpose and we’re committed to supporting the customers to build strong sustainable communities.

“Feedback from a recent consultation we carried out with residents and stakeholders in our Longridge neighbourhood highlighted the need for improved youth services in the area and set up the survey in collaboration with the town council and Cheshire East Youth Service.

“We’re delighted with the response so but we’d like hear from as many young people as possible to tell us about what they want. It’s quick and will only take a few minutes of your time to complete, but your input could make a lasting impact on the community.”

Town Clerk, Adam Keppel-Green added “The Town Council is committed to improving the provision of services and facilities for the younger members of our community and this survey will help guide us to ensure their needs are being met – the more responses we get the better, so please do encourage any young people you have contact with to take five minutes to share their views”.

The survey is open to young people 5 and 19 years. To take part in the survey visit https://forms.office.com/e/wivSbMjumG by 26th April.

3Apr2024

Shortlist for 2024 Town Awards Announced

Drumroll please…. the shortlist for the 2024 Knutsford Town Awards has been announced.

The Knutsford Town Awards celebrate Knutsford’s incredible community spirit and the individuals and organisations which make the town so special. The awards are hosted by Knutsford Town Council and sponsored by the Forum of Private Business.

This year’s nominees are another shining example of the dedication, innovation, and kindness that can be found in the Knutsford community – all have been nominated by people who have seen what they do and been impressed.

Speaking on the announcement of the shortlist, Town Mayor, Cllr Peter Coan said “I am always amazed by incredible commitment we see in the nominations submitted for these awards, there are so many deserving people that shortlisting is never easy. Our huge congratulations to those who have been shortlisted and we look forward to presenting the awards in a few weeks time”

The shortlist is:

The Civic Award

Val Bryant – for leadership of Knutsford Heritage Centre
Maggie Clatyon – for dedicated volunteering at The Welcome
Emma Hamilton – for service to Junior Cricket at Toft Cricket Club
Vanessa Hatton – for service to 5^th Knutsford Rainbows
Ann and John Long – for their support to young people’s mental health services
Andrew Malloy – for broad involvement in various organisations
Milly Peel – for establishing Stable Minds CIC and supporting the mental health of the community

The Business Award

Roberta Dyer of Roberta’s Beauty Redefined – for support to the business community
Love the Dentist – for outreach services and support to local organisations
Peter Murray of Pulse of Perfumery – for being a continued ambassador for Knutsford Town Centre

The Extra Mile Award

Mia Lucas, Tatton Perk – for outstanding customer service
Nicola Marshall, Knutsford Together – for leadership of Knutsford Together
Lucy Page, The Welcome – for tireless service at The Welcome

The Community Award

Knutsford and District Good Neighbours – which provides transport to enable people to access medical appointments
Knutsford GROW – which those who are unable to look after their gardens and provides volunteer opportunities for those from all walks of life
Stable Minds – for support to the mental health of Knutsford residents

A winner for the Youth Award will also be announced on the evening.

All nominees are now being contacted to invite them to attend the awards ceremony which takes place on Tuesday 23^rd April at 7pm in Knutsford Little Theatre.

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