A Keppel-Green | Knutsford Town Council

28Jul2025

LOL Cheshire event to support Town Mayor’s Charities

The Mayor of Knutsford, Cllr Bryan Hartley and Paul Langley of LOL Cheshire are excited to announce a special fundraising comedy night to be held at Knutsford Little Theatre. This collaboration is now into it’s second year, with tickets selling out super-fast in 2024.

The LOL X Mayor of Knutsford Comedy Night takes place on 19^th September at Knutsford Little Theatre with doors opening at 7:15pm, featuring some of the finest comedians from LOL Cheshire, including MC Dom Woodward, Joe Zalias and Gavin Webster.

Paul Langley says “After the success of the event in 2024, I am thrilled to be supporting the Town Mayor again at LOL X The Mayor. You can expect not only a brilliant night of stand up from the very comedians around but also raising vital funds for the Knutsford in Bloom and East Cheshire Hospice.

Civic Events officer, Gemma Jackson “Last years event was hilarious, my face hurt from laughing so much. The event was such a success due to Paul and the volunteers at Knutsford Little Theatre. I would like to thank them for supporting the mayors fundraising efforts”.

Tickets are priced at £15, with all proceeds going to the Mayor’s chosen charities, East Cheshire Hospice and Knutsford in Bloom. They can be purchased online at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/socialpromotions.

Cllr Bryan Hartley added “I encourage you to buy your tickets early, as this event is expected to sell out quickly”

For more information, please contact civic events officer Gemma Jackson by email gemma.jackson@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk or by telephoning 01565 653929

15Jul2025

Cemetery retains Green Flag Award

Knutsford Cemetery is one of only 80 cemeteries in the country to receive the prestigious Green Flag, the international quality mark for parks and green spaces.

Management of Knutsford Cemetery returned to the Town Council in 2020 and over the last five years the council has undertaken a number of improvements to the way it manages the site, from the management of burial rights, the safety of memorials and the quality of the grounds. Knutsford Cemetery secured the Green Flag mark in 2022 and has retained it annually since.

Town Mayor, Cllr Bryan Hartley, who lives close to the cemetery said “I regularly visit the cemetery and am proud of the investment this council has made to improving the grounds for visitors.

The award is in no small part due to the dedication of our Cemetery Groundskeeper Fergal Owen, and I’d like to thank him for his excellent and continued work for us”

The Green Flag Award scheme, managed by environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy under licence from the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government, recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of green spaces across the United Kingdom and around the world.

Green Flag Award Scheme Manager, Paul Todd MBE, said: “Congratulations to everyone involved in Knutsford Cemetery who have worked tirelessly to ensure that it achieves the high standards required for the Green Flag Award.”

14Jul2025

Bees’ Needs Champion Award

Knutsford Town Council has been awarded one of the 2025 Bees Needs Champion Awards in recognition of its work taking action to support pollinators.

Through its Nature Action Plan working group, the council has helped create wildflower meadows in locations across the town and this year launched the Knutsford Bee Trail to raise awareness of practical steps residents can take to help reverse the pollinator decline.

The award was made as part of Bees Needs Week, which runs from 14^th to 20^th July. The aim of the week is to raise awareness of the importance of bees and other pollinators and share ideas, actions and activities that highlight the ways in which everyone can help them thrive.

When most people think of bees, they think of honeybees, but there are over 270 species of bee in the UK, including the honeybee, 24 species of bumblebee and many different solitary bees. Honeybee populations are doing relatively well, however many wild bee populations, including solitary bees and bumblebees, are struggling. Causes of decline include habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.

“Our focus this year has been on supporting pollinating insects as so much of the rest of nature, including us, relies on strong pollinator populations” said Cllr Rex Mears, Chair of the council’s Environment and Transport Committee.

“We are proud to have received the Bees Needs Champion Award this year recognising the importance of the work we are doing, and we hope this will help inspire others to take action. We will continue on our mission to enhance Knutsford’s ecology”

“I would like to thank the nature action plan working group volunteers and the residents that attended the bee trail launch event, without whom this would not have been possible.” Rex added.

The council has created an information page on its website to share steps residents can take to support pollinators at home, as well as finding out more about the Knutsford Bee Trail. This can be found at https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/bee-trail

There are 5 simple actions that anyone can take to help pollinators:

Grow more nectar rich flowers, shrubs and trees. Using window or balcony boxes are good options if you do not have a garden.
Let patches of garden and land grow wild.
Cut grass less often.
Do not disturb insect nests and hibernation spots.
Think carefully about whether to use pesticides.

The Town Council is also running a pollinator photography competition, with entries closing on 31^st August. Photos need to show pollinators in action, including at least one pollinator and flower. More details can be found at https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/bee-trail/photo-comp.

Bee Trail maps can be picked up at locations across the town and will be distributed through school bookbags ahead of the start of the summer holidays. To celebrate Bees Needs Week, you can also find out more about the Bee Trail and our pollinators on the Moor from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday 19^th July.

11Jul2025

60 King Street Update

The Council’s Assets and Operations Committee met on Monday 30^th June and received an update from Bruntwood in relation to 60 King Street.

As set out in the previous update (4^th June), Bruntwood had commissioned a detailed structural survey to inform discussions. The condition survey highlighted the scale of repair works required to the building; the majority of these works were known and identified in previous surveys for the building, these included major works to the rear courtyard and roof over the kitchen, and renewal of many of the different rooves. There were also further works highlighted which arise from the building being vacant for a long period.

Bruntwood remains of the view that it would be possible to find a residential use for the upper floors that could resolve the fabric issues and future proof the building, leaving a lettable asset on the ground floor for a more active public facing use, such as a bar/restaurant.

The Town Council has asked Bruntwood to develop this into a detailed proposal as to exactly how this could be taken forward. This will look at how the upper floors would be converted, how circulation in the building would work and developing interest from potential partners. It will also ascertain how the ground floor would be managed and future timescales.

The Town Council has asked for this to be submitted by 31^st August and it will then be discussed by the Assets and Operations Committee on 22^nd September when a decision on this option will be made. A further statement will be released after this meeting.

17Jun2025

Publication of Unaudited Accounts 2024/25

NOTICE OF PUBLIC RIGHTS AND PUBLICATION OF
UNAUDITED ANNUAL GOVERNANCE & ACCOUNTABILITY RETURN

ACCOUNTS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014 Sections 26 and 27
The Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015 (SI 2015/234)

Date of announcement Tuesday 17 June 2025

Each year the smaller authority’s Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) needs to be reviewed by an external auditor appointed by Smaller Authorities’ Audit Appointments Ltd. The unaudited AGAR has been published with this notice. As it has yet to be reviewed by the appointed auditor, it is subject to change as a result of that review.

Any person interested has the right to inspect and make copies of the accounting records for the financial year to which the audit relates and all books, deeds, contracts, bills, vouchers, receipts and other documents relating to those records must be made available for inspection by any person interested. For the year ended 31 March 2025, these documents will be available on reasonable notice by application to:

Adam Keppel-Green, Town Clerk
Council Offices, Toft Road, Knutsford, WA16 6TA
townclerk@kntusfordtowncouncil.gov.uk – 01565 653 929

commencing on Wednesday 18 June 2025
and ending on Tuesday 29 July 2025

Local government electors and their representatives also have:

The opportunity to question the appointed auditor about the accounting records; and
The right to make an objection which concerns a matter in respect of which the appointed auditor could either make a public interest report or apply to the court for a declaration that an item of account is unlawful. Written notice of an objection must first be given to the auditor and a copy sent to the smaller authority.

The appointed auditor can be contacted at the address in paragraph 4 below for this purpose between the above dates only.

The smaller authority’s AGAR is subject to review by the appointed auditor under the provisions of the Local Audit and Accountability Act 2014, the Accounts and Audit Regulations 2015 and the NAO’s Code of Audit Practice 2015. The appointed auditor is:

PKF Littlejohn LLP (Ref: SBA Team), 1 Westferry Circus, Canary Wharf, London, E14 4HD / sba@pkf-littlejohn.com

This announcement is made by Adam Keppel-Green, Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer

You can view the unaudited return here: AGAR 2024/25 (unaudited)

4Jun2025

Update on 60 King Street

The Town Council continues to be in discussions with major property company Bruntwood to secure investment for the iconic 60 King Street and bring it back into use.

Following investigations over the past 24 months, Bruntwood has determined that a scheme where the council retains the freehold of the building and secures third party investment for a commercial use of the whole building is not financially viable due to the level of investment required balanced with the potential income it would generate.

In March, the Town Council and Bruntwood 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. This would secure the future of the building and bring the ground floor back into active use in the town centre.

Bruntwood has commissioned a detailed structural survey to inform these discussions and has liaised with potential development partners. The survey will be completed by the end of June and the viability of this option should be determined over the summer.

We know this is not as detailed an update as many would like to see. 60 King Street is a complicated building. It requires significant investment and in increasingly challenging economic times, this greatly limits the opportunities for the building. The Town Council will issue a further update following the next meeting of its Assets and Operations Committee on 30th June.

3Jun2025

Queen Elizabeth Coronation Tree Rededicated

A tree planted in 1953 to mark the coronation of the late Queen Elizabeth II has been rededicated to her memory on the 72^nd anniversary of her coronation, 2nd June.

The Heath in the 1950s was different to how it is now. Throughout the early 1940s it was home to American troops and the site had few trees, making the tree a prominent sight. Over the years, the woodland section of the Heath developed and more oak trees began to grow, possibly seeded from the Queen’s Oak itself. Holly also became widespread and eventually obscured the tree from view, and as a result it had been forgotten.

The tree was rediscovered in October 2021 by Rob Eyre, who was surveying tree to catalogue the trees in public spaces for the Town Council. Rob found a tree surrounding by six-foot iron railings and surrounded by holly, but at the time no-one was sure what it was for other than that it appeared to be a memorial tree.

The mystery was solved two years later by volunteer researchers Jenny Collis and Mary Gracie of the Knutsford Heritage Centre who found the 1953 coronation programme in the Town Council’s archive. The programme stated that an oak tree would be planted along with a line of ash trees in Ladies Mile.

Pam Walker, Manager of Knutsford Heritage Centre said “’Knutsford Heritage Centre is delighted that, through research by two of the Centre’s volunteers, another small part of the town’s history has been re-discovered and restored”

With the mystery solved, Friends of the Heath and Cheshire Wildlife Trust, who manage the woodland on behalf of Tatton Estate, began clearing the area around the oak tree to make it visible once more. Friends of the Heath installed new posts around the tree.

Nick Johnson, Chair of Friends of the Heath said “We are thankful to the ‘Friends’ who gave their time, effort, and skills to restore this special Oak to the public gaze. May it thrive to remind us of our heritage and the dedication and work of one of our greatest monarchs”

On Monday 2^nd June 2025, Town Mayor Cllr Bryan Hartley re-dedicated the tree to the late Queen. Speaking at a small gathering with Friends of the Heath, Knutsford Heritage Centre and Tatton Estates, Bryan paid tribute to the late Queen, saying “Today, as we unveil this new plaque, we rededicate the Queen’s Oak — in lasting memory of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II whose reign was defined by duty, dignity, and a deep connection with the people of this country”

“We hope this tree continues to stand not only as a marker of that historic Coronation, but as a living symbol of continuity, community, and the strength of nature and memory combined”.

Planting an oak on the heath to commemorate the coronation of the new monarch was a tradition at least dating back to King Edward VII when a tree was planted at the Manchester Road side. The trees for Kings George V and George VI have been lost, and a tree was planted to mark the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III.

Henry Brooks of Tatton Estates said “It was a delight to be able to see the Coronation Oak today for the unveiling of the plaque, thanks for the research work from Knutsford Heritage’s Volunteers and the clearing and fencing done by the Town Council, Friends of the Heath and Cheshire Wildlife Trust. The mayor’s speech was a poignant reminder of the life of service our late Monarch Queen Elizabeth II. I was honoured on behalf of the Estate to join our community in commemorating Her Majesty”

2Jun2025

Pollinator photography competition launched

Knutsford Town Council, in collaboration with the Knutsford Photographic Society, is thrilled to announce the launch of a captivating photography competition as part of its 2025 focus on pollinators. This initiative aims to highlight the vital role of pollinating insects and encourage community engagement in efforts to reverse their decline.

The Bee Trail Photography Competition invites residents of all ages to capture the beauty and importance of pollinators in action. Participants are encouraged to submit striking photographs featuring at least one pollinator and one flower, showcasing the intricate relationship between these essential creatures and the flora they help thrive.

“We are pleased to be working with Knutsford Photographic Society to launch this competition, which celebrates the natural beauty around us but also serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of our pollinators” said Cllr April Johnson.

“Through the lens of the camera, we hope to foster a deeper appreciation for these insects and inspire actions that support their survival.”

To ensure broad participation, the competition features three categories:

Under 16s: Open to budding photographers 16 and under, using any device (phone or camera).
Ages 17+ (Phone): for those aged 17 and above, capturing the beauty with their phones.
Ages 17+ (Camera): for keen photographers aged 17 and above, using a camera to create captivating images.

Prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in each category. The winning photographs will be unveiled and celebrated during the Picnic in the Park event on September 14th.

This competition is a great opportunity for individuals to connect with nature, hone their photography skills, and contribute to a significant environmental cause. Knutsford Town Council and the Knutsford Photographic Society look forward to seeing the incredible submissions that will undoubtedly emerge from this exciting new venture.

Further details on submission guidelines, deadlines, and specific entry procedures will be made available on the Knutsford Town Council website: https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/bee-trail/photo-comp

Knutsford Town Council is leading a year of activity focused on supporting pollinator insects through its Nature Action Plan. This competition follows the launch of the Knutsford Bee Trail.

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.

27May2025

Knutsford Bee Trail Launched

The sun was shining on 17^th May for the Knutsford Bee Day event which took place on the Moor.

The event was held to mark World Bee Day (20^th May) and was the launch of a new walking trail across the town.

The Knutsford Bee Day event was organised by Knutsford Town Council as part of it’s Nature Action Plan. In 2025, the council aims to inspire residents to take action to support pollinating insects, including the UK’s most prolific pollinator, bees.

The day featured talks from pollinator experts, the launch of a summer photography competition and the opportunity to find out more about what simple actions we can all take to support pollinators.

Town Mayor, Cllr Bryan Hartley said “The atmosphere was as sweet as honey, and every guest I spoke with was absolutely buzzing with delight. It was a hive of activity, and the enthusiasm was truly contagious.”

The event was held to launch the Knutsford Bee Trail, a 3.5 mile walk connecting Knutsford’s wildlife sites, from the Heath to St John’s Wood.

“This trail is all about raising awareness of what we can all do to support pollinating insects which are vital to our ecosystem and our food supply,” said Cllr April Johnson, lead member of the town council’s Nature Action Plan.

The walk features a number of informative signs that highlight action being taken in the community, and things that can be implemented at home. The panels also highlight the importance of pollinators to the eco-system.

“There are so many practical things we can all do in our town to make a huge difference to wild bees and other pollinators. We want them to thrive here. We look forward to seeing you on the trail and together as a town pledging to do more to support our bees” April added.

Trail maps can be found online at www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/bee-trail or picked up from local shops and the Council Offices. The Town Council website also features more detailed guidance on action that can be taken at home.

8May2025

Knutsford Bee Day to launch new bee trail

A bee-centric event is taking place on the Moor next Saturday as part of World Bee Day.

Knutsford Town Council is hosting the event from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday 17^th May ahead of World Bee Day on 20^th May.

The event will feature talks from Chester University on biodiversity and Manchester Bee Sanctuary will be giving talks about our most prolific pollinators – the bees!

Knutsford Bake Club are running a bee-themed bake sale with organic cordials and children can also hunt out the different bees hiding around the Moor. The event will also launch a new photographic competition being run in conjunction with Knutsford Photographic Society.

The event is to mark the launch of the Knutsford Bee Trail, a new 3.4mile circular walk designed to promote awareness of the importance of pollinators. The Knutsford Bee Trail is being officially launched by Esther McVey MP and the new Mayor of Knutsford.

Visitors to the Bee Day event will also be able to find out more about the practical steps they can take to support pollinating insects like bees and contribute to the Knutsford ‘Bee a Hero’ Pledge Board. The first 100 attendees will receive a packet of wildflower seeds to grow their own pollinator patches at home, and visitors can be in with a chance of winning a bee hotel for their garden. There will also be some pollinator colouring to do, and the chance to find out more about pollinators, including which everyday foods would be affected by a continued decline in pollinators across the world.

The event will also be the first place to pick up a map of the new 3.5 mile Knutsford Bee Trail walk.

“This event is all about raising awareness of what we can all do to support pollinating insects which are vital to our ecosystem and our food supply, and it launches our exciting new permanent bee trail too” said Cllr April Johnson, lead member of the town council’s Nature Action Plan.

“There are so many practical things we can all do in our town to make a huge difference to wild bees and other pollinators. We want them to thrive here. We look forward to seeing you there and together as a town pledging to do more to support our bees”

The Knutsford Bee Trail will be launched at the event and a route map available from the Town Council website from Saturday.

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