Town Council News | Knutsford Town Council

23May2024

Alfresco Dining

Alfresco dining will take place in Knutsford on four summer Sundays in July and August this year.

Minshull Street will close on 9^th June and 11^th August from 9.30am to 10.30pm, and on Sunday 28^th July and 18^th August a section of King Street will do the same. This will allow restaurants, bars, and cafes to place tables and chairs outside for outdoor dining.

Knutsford Town Council has collaborated with town centre restaurants and cafes to organise the road closures and allow for large scale outdoor dining days throughout the summer. Core Highways will be providing traffic management services, and the roads will re-open at 10:30pm ready for the next day’s trading.

The first alfresco evenings took place in September 2021 as part of the Town Council’s work supporting local business during post lockdown recovery. The event returned in 2022 and 2023 with less success due to poor weather.

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager said, “We are pleased to be working with our hospitality venues on this event. Last year was a disappointment due to the weather and after reviewing the event with those involved, it was agreed to move them to a Sunday. This gives the venues more time to welcome dog walkers and Sunday shoppers as well as more time for the rain to stop!”

The Minshull Street and Princess Street closure and covers the following:

The entire length on Minshull Street
The section of Princess Street outside Lost & Found.

The King Street, road closure takes place on and covers the following areas:

King Street from the junction with Church Hill to the junction with Minshull Street.

The following venues will be providing alfresco dining or drinking tables from 9.30am to 10.30pm –

Princess & Minshull Street (9^th June and 11^th August)

Café on the Corner
Lost & Found
April’s Kitchen
Linden Stores
The Angel

King Street (28^th July and 18^th August)

Morgan Edwards
Gusto
Smokehouse and Cellar
King Street Kitchen
Wine and Wallop

Sandra continues “These road closures provide additional outside space to venues for their customers to enjoy the amazing food and drink Knutsford offers while also enjoying the iconic surroundings of Knutsford town centre. We hope these sessions are busy and give the town centre a lively continental atmosphere during the summer months. August 11^th also coincides with FamilyFest, so this is definitely a date for the diaries”.

Patrons are urged to contact their chosen venue direct to see whether they need to book a space in advance. If the evenings are cancelled due to adverse weather, the cancellation will be announced across the following social media platforms; Discover Knutsford, Knutsford Town Council, and the participating venues.

21May2024

Cllr Coan raises £7,500 for mayoral charities

As his term of office came to an end at last week’s Mayor Making ceremony, outgoing Town Mayor Cllr Peter Coan announced the success of his fundraising efforts, raising £7,500 to be split between two good causes.

Cllr Coan had been raising funds for Knutsford GROW and the establishment of a Knutsford Men in Shed’s initiative and hosted series of fundraising events including a Summer BBQ, a beer tasting at Dexter & Jones, Dine with the Mayor at Linden Stores and guests discovered a Winter Wonderland at Tatton Park in November.

In December the Town Mayor ran a charity raffle stall at Knutsford Christmas Market with two lucky winners walking away with hampers that were kindly donated by the market traders at the Christmas market.

The mayor’s annual quiz night at The Angel was a roaring success, with many laughs and lots of money raised! Katy Collins and team walked away with the winner’s trophy.

The highlight of every Town Mayor’s year is the Mayor’s Charity Ball which, this year, was a glittering affair at Cottons Hotel and Spa. With entertainment kindly sponsored by Mesoestetic, and drinks sponsored by Georgina Chase from Slater and Gordon. Local band “The Avenue” got everyone up on the dancefloor, whilst DJ Pete Deane entertained us with his DJ set and ice breaker games.

Prizes for the raffle and auction were generously donated by local businesses, the evening started with a bang as guests popped helium balloons, sponsored by Love the Dentist, inside which were vouchers for amazing nights out at restaurants, hotels, and the cinema. The first prize winner of the raffle was treated to an overnight spa break at Cottons hotel & spa, whilst the silent auction included a signed Manchester United shirt, Bespoke shirt from King & Allen and a signed Everton FC shirt.

Cllr Peter Coan said “I would like to thank everyone who has supported me over the past 12 months. To each of the businesses who have sponsored or hosted my events, my fundraising efforts would not be possible without you.

I would like to personally thank everyone who has attended my events, I hope you enjoyed yourselves whilst raising much needed funds for my two charities.

I would like to congratulate Cllr Colin Banks on being elected as Knutsford’s new Town Mayor and I hope you will support him as much you have supported me throughout my term”.

Neil Forbes, trustee of Knutsford GROW “I’d like to thank Cllr. Coan and Civic Events Officer Gemma on behalf of Knutsford GROW’s Trustees, volunteers and especially our beneficiaries for the year of hard work building up to this donation. It means a great deal to smaller charities like ‘GROW’ where every penny counts. For example, we intend buying some extra rechargeable batteries for our equipment. If you attended or hosted or contributed to any of the events, well done and our grateful thanks to you too”.

Rachel Meadows of UK Men’s shed association “Thank you to Peter and all those involved in supporting the progression of the Shed Movement in Knutsford for this generous donation. The UK Men’s Sheds Association believe there should be a Shed available for every person who wishes to access one and we are thrilled that Knutsford will soon have its own. The new Shed at Knutsford will be a valuable community space where people can socialise, share skills and support their mental health. We wish them every success in the future.”

17May2024

Explore Knutsford’s hidden gems with Discover Knutsford

A new place brand to promote Knutsford has been launched by Knutsford Town Council.

Discover Knutsford has been developed with funding from UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund and aims to elevate Knutsford’s profile on a regional and national scale.

Designed by the team at Knutsford’s own Bella Design and Marketing the Discover Knutsford brand captures the essence of the charming market town. With a focus on exploration the brand invites individuals to uncover the hidden gems and heritage that makes Knutsford a special destination.

Tessa Blakemore, Account Director at Bella Design and Marketing said “Our creative studio really enjoyed working with the team at Knutsford Town Council to create the new brand identity for Discover Knutsford. Our designers produced a contemporary, stylish brand which takes inspiration from the traditional architectural features and colour palette of the environment. It was important to respect the heritage whilst positioning Knutsford as a forward-thinking, multi-faceted place to visit. The emblem of the archway invites visitors to look beyond the obvious and discover everything our vibrant town has to offer.”

Discover Knutsford has been launched on social media to provide information on upcoming events and offering insights into everything Knutsford has to offer. It aims to be a resource for both residents and tourists, helping all to discover more of what Knutsford has to offer.

The UK Government Shared Prosperity Fund is also funding the development of a Discover Knutsford website and the creation of video and photography content to help market Knutsford and support the local economy.

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council said “Ultimately the aim of Discover Knutsford is to increase awareness and encourage visitors to Knutsford. This will help Knutsford businesses and visitor attractions thrive and ensure we continue to have a vibrant and diverse town.”

“We are excited to use Discover Knutsford as a platform to showcase the unique charm of our town and put Knutsford on the map.”

For more details follow Discover Knutsford on Instagram @discoverknutsford and Facebook: Discover Knutsford. The website www.discoverknutsford.com will launch later this year.

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”

9May2024

Knutsford Music Festival – Music on the Moor and fringe announced!

Knutsford Music Festival returns with a bang next month with an exciting line up set to take the stage from 13^th-16^th June. Once again, festival organiser Knutsford Town Council has worked alongside BBC Radio 2’s Mark Radcliffe to arrange a brilliant programme of folk music alongside blues and many free offerings throughout the town.

The free open-air Music on the Moor returns on Saturday 15^th June from 12pm–4pm featuring live music and activities for all ages. Local bands Healey Badger and Instant Vintage will return to stage alongside some new faces to the festival such as Jack Woodward, Ambiere, Chloey Rose and Hangman’s Howl. This event will also showcase the talents of upcoming youngsters Elise Higham and Perine Duchesnes. On the day there will also be a creative craft table run by Love to Craft Mcr, where you can be inspired by the rhythm of the music to create your own masterpiece! Alternatively, why not join the stars of Noodle Performing Arts and have a go at a taking part in a performance workshop? If you need a pick me up after all the action, we have Knutsford Scouts running a BBQ and a Knutsford Beer Festival pop-up!

As if that’s not enough to get excited about Knutsford Music Festival also has some fantastic fringe events popping up in establishments across the town, with everything from electronic beats to community choirs, there will be a gig to suit every musical taste.

The fringe events include:

Thursday 13th June

Protest, Pattern and Party – 6pm onwards at Wine and Wallop

Cocktails & Canvas ‘Monkey Music’ – 7.30pm – 9,30pm at Lost and Found

The Photography of Scarlet Page – 13^th-23^rd June at Oil Art Advisory

Friday 14^th June

DJ Nige – 8pm onwards at Wine & Wallop

Feel Good Classics – 6pm – 8pm at Lost and Found

Ai Over the Top – 9pm – 11pm at Lost and Found

Saturday 15^th June

The Select Committee – 3pm at The Builders Arms

Soulful Minds Music – 6pm at The Builders Arms

Live Electronic Music and Art Exhibition – 6pm onwards at Detaljer (limited space. Booking required)

DJ Night – 12pm onwards at Lost and Found

Knutsford Beats – 11.30am – 12.30pm on Regent Street

Sunday 16^th June

Northwestern – 2pm at The Builders Arms

Marc Gallagher Ukelele Man – 4pm at The Builders Arms

Chilled Spanish Sunday – 2pm-4pm onwards at Evuna

An Afternoon of Emotive and Evocative Vocals – 2pm – 4pm at Detaljer

DJs Brad & Millie – 12pm -5pm at Lost & Found

Star Choir – 11.30am -12.30pm on Regent Street

“Music on The Moor is always such a fun filled community day. A relaxed, inclusive event, celebrating local talent and bringing people together. Its fabulous that this year we will have the addition of a BBQ from the local Scouts and the brilliant Knutsford Beer Festival joining us.” Alex Molloy, Events Manager, Knutsford Town Council.

For more information, pick up one of our gig guides from the library, council offices or at the venues around town. Alternatively, you can head over to our website to find out more and book tickets: www.knutsfordmusicfestival.com .

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

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