Fingerposts pointing to Knutsford Heritage Centre

Households to pay just £9.99 per month for council services

At a meeting of the Full Council, the Town Council set its precept for 2024/25 at £719,511, meaning a Band D household will pay £9.99 per month towards the services delivered by Knutsford Town Council.

The Town Council’s budget covers the delivery of a range of services from supporting community organisations to maintaining public toilets.

Over the next year the council will be introducing its first apprenticeship when it employs an apprentice town ranger. The new apprentice will complete a horticultural qualification whilst learning from the council’s experienced town ranger and cemetery groundskeeper and enable the town ranger service to complete more of the tasks that “somebody” should do. 

The Town Council has also allocated a small budget for the delivery of new youth and community services/activity which will be shaped by consultation with young people in the coming months. The council will continue to ensure Knutsford has a regular Citizens Advice service and the town centre is monitored by CCTV to ensure safety and security of residents, businesses and visitors. The council will also continue to maintain an award winning cemetery and public toilets, support nature conservation and biodiversity, provide an annual programme of Christmas displays and deliver events designed to support the local economy and bring the community together.

Heritage remains a key focus for the Town Council too, with the budget providing for the creation of a Conservation Area guide to support the enhancement of the heritage of the Legh Road Conservation Area following the pending approval of the new appraisal and management plan for this space. The council will also be working with partners to host events as part of the Heritage Open Days festival in September and commemorate D-Day in June.

In setting the budget, the council considered the great uncertainty presented by Cheshire East Council’s budget challenges which may see funding withdrawn or reduced for leisure centres, library, green space management, street cleaning and more. Concurrently, the Town Council had been asked to consider funding The Welcome and Knutsford Heritage Centre. The budget sets aside £100,000 to enable the council to appraise what community services it may need to contribute to or take on to safeguard for the town.

Town Mayor Cllr Peter Coan said “We are committed to ensuring our town thrives and residents are able to access the facilities and services needed to support a healthy and vibrant community. This budget ensures we can continue to deliver for the town and, should it be necessary, safeguard services that may otherwise be lost. Every penny we raise is spent supporting Knutsford”

The approved budget is available on the Town Council website at: www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/council/finance.

Fruit and veg on wooden boards

Revocation of Market Hall Trader Licence

Knutsford Town Council is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment to all customers and traders at Knutsford Market Hall.

Before Christmas, the Town Council received a formal complaint regarding a market trader. Following an investigation, a decision was taken to revoke the licence to trade due to a failure to comply with the Market Hall Regulations. This decision followed a warning which had been issued in early December.

All revocation decisions are subject to the right of appeal. The appeal was heard by the Town Council’s Town Centre Committee on Monday 15th January. After careful consideration of all evidence presented to the council, the committee resolved to dismiss the appeal

The Town Council does not consider it appropriate to discuss or comment on the specifics of this decision. However, revoking a licence to trade is not a decision taken lightly nor in haste and the council undertook a robust process in reaching this decision. The Town Council believes it is the correct decision for our remaining traders, customers and staff.

2024 is a big year for the Market Hall, as it marks is 60th birthday. We are working hard with traders to ensure our temporary move to 60 King Street goes smoothly and are excited to deliver the significant investment and modernisation at the Market Hall to ensure it continues to thrive for the next 60 years.

We know how important an independent greengrocer is to our customers. We will now actively seek a new trader to operate a fruit and veg stall. In the interim, the Market Butcher will be providing a greengrocer service.  

Those interested in operating a greengrocer stall should visit: https://www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/market-hall/trade to complete an application form.

If you have any questions in relation to this please contact: townclerk@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk

The top of a sign stating "Knutsford"

Volunteers sought for CIL Committee

Six volunteers are sought to join an advisory committee that will help determine how money from new development is spent in the town.

Knutsford Town Council’s CIL Advisory Committee will make recommendations to the Town Council on what projects it should fund using its share of Community Infrastructure Levy.

Community Infrastructure Levy was introduced in Cheshire East in 2019 and 25% of the receipts for Knutsford housing development is paid to Knutsford Town Council which expects to receive over half a million pounds over the next decade.

The Town Council currently holds just under £26,500 as the ‘neighbourhood share’ of CIL which can be spent on infrastructure or anything else which addresses the demands development places on the town. The Town Council has adopted a CIL Framework to govern how it will make decisions on using this important investment in the community.

The framework acknowledges that whilst the town council is the recipient of CIL it may be that the best use of the funds would be for projects delivered by partner organisations and the framework sets out that decisions on which projects should receive CIL funding will be chosen by a joint committee of residents and councillors.

The role of the advisory committee will be to review bids for funds and produce a recommendation to the council’s Finance Committee.  The council is looking for six residents to join the committee and the first meeting will be held in February when it will consider the process and first proposal. It is anticipated it will meet no more than four times per year – depending on applications and available funds.

“In the last three years we have received just over £26k from minor developments and there is the potential for significant sums if the major housebuilding is approved on Manchester Road. This committee will help determine how the Town Council prioritises this investment for the community.” said Town Clerk, Adam Keppel-Green.

If you are interested in joining the committee, contact the Town Clerk by email townclerk@knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk setting out the reasons you would like to be considered by 31st January.

An open grass field with trees in the background

Knutsford Wellness Week 2024

This January, Knutsford will experience its first Wellness Week. Organised by Knutsford Town Council, this weeklong event will showcase a range of talks, presentations and taster sessions focussing on physical and mental health. The pop ups, from a broad variety of Knutsford based health and wellbeing businesses, will take place across different venues in Knutsford town centre starting on Saturday 20th January and running until Saturday 27th January.

The activities will start off at Lost and Found with informative pop-ups from Helen Jones Nutritional Therapist, Jem Gunn Body Image Therapy, Sian Winslade Coaching, Reflexology Manchester and Just Drop in. As sponsors of the event, Slater & Gordon Knutsford Family Law will also be there to talk about the services they offer.

Georgina Chase who runs the Slater & Gordon Knutsford Family Law office at 10 Church View said “Slater & Gordon are proud to be sponsoring the Knutsford health and wellness week, raising awareness of how important wellbeing is to people in the community”.

Throughout the week there will be opportunities to book onto sessions such as fitness, yoga, podiatry, life coaching, hearing checks and counselling to allow Knutsford residents to try out new services related to their wellbeing. Many of the taster sessions will be complimentary or discounted.

Roberta Dyer from Roberta Beauty Redefined said “January is the perfect time to evaluate your health and wellbeing.”

“We are excited to be part of the wellness week showcasing taster treatments that help health and skin concerns.”

Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager at Knutsford Town Council said “We are delighted to facilitate this week long event to shine a light on the health and wellbeing services available in Knutsford.”

“As many of the taster sessions are complimentary or discounted, this collaboration will allow residents the opportunity to easily try new techniques or support services to improve their wellbeing.”

“Booking is essential for some events; this can be done directly with the host. A full programme, including all booking details, will be available to pick up from town centre businesses from early January.”

Businesses involved include:

  • Helen Jones Nutritional Therapist
  • Jem Gunn Body Image Therapy
  • Sian Winslade Coaching
  • Reflexology Manchester
  • Just Drop In
  • Yogi with Sho
  • Nxtep Gym
  • Saks Hairdressing
  • Knutsford Iyengar Yoga Centre
  • NaturalMat
  • Roberta Beauty Redefined
  • Outside the Box Therapies
  • Nancy Camp
  • Carrot Banana Peach
  • The Wellness Web
  • Carmichael Clinic
  • Healthwatch
  • The Mum Club Knutsford
  • Lotus Blossom Gift Co
  • Knutsford Hearing Centre
  • Stable Minds
Patterned mugs with "Knutsford" written on them

Bursary to boost university studies open for applications

Calling all second-year university students residing in Knutsford or Toft! Applications for the 2024 Knutsford Millennium Bursary are now open, offering a valuable £660 boost to your final year projects and dissertations.

This annual partnership between Knutsford Town Council and the Knutsford Lions has been supporting local students for over two decades, recognising academic merit and alleviating financial pressures during the crucial final year.

Whether students need funding for research materials, travel for fieldwork, or simply a helping hand with living expenses, the Millennium Bursary can make a real difference. Past recipients have used the award to access specialist software, conduct international research, and even purchase essential equipment for their projects.

The application process is straightforward. If you’re a second-year student with a term-time address in Knutsford or Toft, all you need to do is download the application form from the Knutsford Town Council website and submit a written statement outlining your academic aspirations and how the bursary will help you achieve them.

Applications are open until 16th February, so don’t miss this chance to secure additional support for your final year project or dissertation.

Town Mayor Cllr Peter Coan said “The Millennium Bursary is more than just a financial boost; it’s a vote of confidence from your community, recognising your potential and encouraging you to excel. So I urge all second year students not to hesitate and take advantage of this opportunity.”

Applications can be completed at www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk/services/millennium-bursary

The crib near Lost and Found at Christmas

Mayor’s Christmas Message from Cllr Peter Coan

Throughout this year I have been continually humbled by the passion and generosity of our community. We are a resilient and strong town, and I want to thank everyone for their community spirit and kindness. That’s what sets this place apart and makes Knutsford such a fantastic place to live.

As we prepare for the celebration of Christmas, we know this year will bring particular challenges for families trying to cope with the increased cost of living and rising fuel bills. Internationally, many face even more daunting conditions. We should all embrace the Christmas message of Peace on Earth and Goodwill to all Mankind.

Christmas is also about celebrating a message of hope for a brighter future.

I would like to extend my personal thanks and greetings to those who continue to look after us, and keep us safe, particularly throughout the festive period – Police, health staff, Fire Service, and carers. Thank you, for all, that you do.

A special thanks to the many wonderful people across our network of voluntary organisations, who give their time and effort to bring cheer to those who’s Christmas can be particularly difficult or lonely.

Without this fantastic network of our voluntary organisations, life would be so much poorer in Knutsford and they deserve our support for their work in the community.

As Mayor I am honoured to have met so many inspiring people this year.

As I look forward to 2024 it’s with a renewed sense of love and appreciation for all those family, friends, and colleagues that I am so lucky to have around me. I simply couldn’t do it without you all.

May Christmas be a time of good cheer, companionship, and celebration, for you, and those you love.

I would like to wish you all, a very happy and healthy Christmas and a peaceful and positive New Year. And as we encounter our townsfolk take a moment to smile at each other.  

Knutsford Swimming Pool

CEC Leisure Centre Consultation

A public consultation that could impact the future of Knutsford Leisure Centre has been launched by Cheshire East Council.

The “strategic leisure review” consultation, which runs to 7th January 2024, aims to save the borough council £479k each year and was originally planned to specifically consult on proposals to close Knutsford Leisure Centre alongside centres in Poynton, Holmes Chapel and Middlewich.

The consultation outlines that “as a last resort” it may have to withdraw funding from leisure centres asking whether residents think the council should focus its leisure centre provision on areas with poor health, where usage is highest or where operational costs are the lowest.

Knutsford Leisure Centre may be “at risk” due to Knutsford being a predominantly healthy area. CEC data is unclear on user numbers but suggests Knutsford Leisure Centre has a lower membership penetration and userbase than many other centres.

Last week Knutsford Town Council met with operator Everybody Health and Leisure who outlined that they have identified a number of measures which could deliver the saving to Cheshire East Council without the need for centre closures. Both the Town Council and Everybody Health and Leisure believe it is highly important to retain leisure centres in the borough’s key towns for the health of all residents.

The consultation can be accessed on the Cheshire East Council website at: https://surveys.cheshireeast.gov.uk/s/1WHHZA/

Knutsford Town Council had invited Tom Shuttleworth (Director of Environment and Neighbourhoods), Cllr Mick Warren (Chair of the Environment and Communities Committee) and Cllr Sam Corcoran (Leader) of Cheshire East Council to attend a public meeting in Knutsford to discuss this consultation and what it could mean for the town, but unfortunately they have declined the invitation.

Town Councillor Matthew Robertson said “Knutsford Leisure Centre is a critical part of the Knutsford community so please have your say”

“It is vital that Knutsford residents engage with this consultation. We know the centre is used by all ages and demographics and the broader the response to the consultation the greater the impact will be on Cheshire East Council’s decision making.”

The crib near Lost and Found at Christmas

Community invited to Crib Service

The Mayor of Knutsford, Cllr Peter Coan is inviting Knutsford families to join him outside the Lost and Found on Saturday,9th December, for the annual community crib service. The service, which is led by Mayor’s Chaplain Revd Paul Deakin, starts at 4pm and includes a festive Christmas message from the mayor who has chosen some of his favourite carols for the event. The carols will be led by the Chester Brass Band and St Vincents Primary School Choir.

Peter said: “I’m looking forward to attending the Community Crib Service, this is event is for all: young and old, and I hope you can join me as we get into the festive spirit.”

Complimentary mulled wine and mince pies will be served by the Knutsford Catenians.

A viking at the Pumpkin Path event with his family

Pumpkin Path 2023 a success

Knutsford Pumpkin Path 2023 has been hailed a success by hundreds of local families who attended the event on Halloween evening.

The event was held on Tuesday 31st October in Knutsford Town Centre and featured a pumpkin trail, as well as live singing from Knutsford Beats and dancing entertainment from SMB dance. Themed character entertainment took place in Wallwood alongside lots of sweet treats from local businesses!

Hundreds of local children explored the streets of Knutsford searching for pumpkins hidden in shop windows. Local businesses installed fantastic, themed window displays and Smokehouse and Cellar alongside Knutsford Olde Sweet Shoppe were crowned the winners, with great displays also from Morgan Edwards and Wendy Diddams.

There were some impressive costumes on the evening with prizes given out to a Super Mario family in the over 7s category and mini Jack Skellington in the under 7s category.

Laura Phillipson, Events Manager at Knutsford Town Council, said: “Knutsford Pumpkin Path is one of Knutsford’s favourite events. It was amazing to see so many families come out in support of the event, we loved seeing all of the wonderful costumes and fabulous displays by our local businesses. We hope it gave everyone a scaryytale end to their Halloween!”

The event is organised annually by Knutsford Town Council. For more information on events in Knutsford, head to www.knutsfordtowncouncil.gov.uk to check out a full events calendar including what is coming up for the rest of 2023.

A group of people outside

Festive Sunday arrives in Knutsford this Christmas!

Shoppers are urged to put December 10th in their diaries as Knutsford shops and businesses host their first Festive Sunday for the Christmas period.

The day is jam packed with seasonal activities to suit every age group including:-

  • Chester Brass Band
  • Elf on the Shelf
  • Knutsford Little Theatre’s Red Riding Pantomime cast
  • Christmas Carols from Knutsford Beats
  • Christmas Bake Off with The Tea Room
  • Knutsford Royal May Day Grotto at Knutsford Methodist Church

These attractions sit alongside the wonderful gifts available from Knutsford’s unique shops. Sandra Curties, Town Centre Manager for Knutsford Town Council said, “Knutsford is well known for its Christmas Markets, but this year we wanted to showcase our existing shops too.  Festive Sunday is all about discovering what is, for Knutsfordians, on their doorstep and for those further away it is about having an independent not an Amazon Christmas! ”.

Most shops are staying open on the day with many offering mulled wine, mince pies and other seasonal treats. Hattie Cufflin from Hot Cocoa, said, “We are looking forward to Knutsford’s first Festive Sunday and we’ve lots of chocolatey treats planned. Hot mince pies, ice cream, homemade sweet and savoury treats are on offer plus if you spend £30 you get a 10% discount on the day. Please support Knutsford’s indie shops this Christmas”.

Sandra Curties, continued, “The shops have worked extremely hard and have put together a great day with mulled wine, wine tasting, discounts, festive treats, plus live music on the menu. There will also be a raffle when you purchase in selected shops to win prizes from Lanigan and Hulme and a Christmas Eve box courtesy of Knutsford Stationery and Art Shop and Scene in Knutsford, plus some other great prizes. It has been a difficult trading year for some our much-loved independents so let’s give them our support this festive season”.

The day has been made possible by the kind sponsorship of Knutsford Admin.  Helen Rogers, Director said, “The team at Knutsford Admin Limited have chosen to sponsor the festive shopping event as they are huge fans of the many shops and eateries in town. Not all the team live in Knutsford, but they all feel part of the community and enjoy knowing many of the retailers and hospitality venues owners and teams by name”.

Rebecca Mallon, Director of Knutsford Admin added “We really enjoy our town centre location, particularly in the run up to Christmas when the streets & shop fronts look so pretty and there’s a real festive feel”.

For Festive Sunday, King Street will be closed from 9am to 6pm from the junction with Church Walk to the junction of Dury Lane.  Church Hill will remain open and there will be traffic measures in place to allow cars to access King Street car park.  The parking bays on King Street from Tatton Street to Drury Lane will be suspended to enable two-way traffic enabling access to properties of Drury Lane throughout the event.  Access to King Street carpark will be via Church Hill and Church Walk. 

Those interested in attending Festive Sunday should keep an eye on Knutsford Town Council’s social media pages, and via leaflets and posters coming to the town centre soon.