march2023 – Fylde Council

Kirkham Futures: Gorgeous New Mural In Town Centre Ginnel

Fylde Council — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 14:09:55 +0000

A stunning new mural inspired by Kirkham’s rich heritage will transform a town centre ginnel as acclaimed artists settle in to work.

Artists Aylo Nomad and Seca One worked with residents to find inspiration for the piece, drawing on Kirkham’s Roman roots, the town’s famous fishstones, and its role in the industrial revolution to produce a design that spoke to Kirkham’s heritage and sparked conversation and storytelling amongst the town’s people.

Aylo Nomad said: “[Seca and I] sought to create a piece that would be universally appealing and would make the town proud. We achieved this by holding workshops and community days, engaging with the local residents on a personal level, and taking their feedback into account as we developed the design. Our intention was to create a mural that would brighten up the walk down the ginnel, and create a sense of pride and ownership among the community.”

The ginnel area between 34 & 36 Poulton Street will be temporarily closed for access from Wednesday 29 March for up to 10 days as part of the works, carried out under the Kirkham Futures Phase One major construction works taking place in the town centre.

Access from the Community Centre Car Park and lower Mill Street Car Park will be via other existing exits. Disabled drivers and those requiring a level exit from Mill Street Car Park to the high street are advised to park on the lower part of Mill Street Car Park and to exit the car park behind the Church and onto Poulton Street.

Kirkham Futures is a 4-year programme of work to revitalise the town centre, representing the biggest investment in Kirkham in a generation, funded by the Historic England High Street Heritage Action Zone, the Government’s Future High Street Fund, and contributions from Lancashire County Council, Fylde Council, and Kirkham Town Council.

For more information about the Kirkham Futures Public Realm Improvements, including a list of Frequently Asked Questions, visit the Kirkham Futures website. To keep up to date on the latest developments in Kirkham and across the Fylde, sign up to the Fylde Council newsletter.

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Enjoy a History Lesson on Kirkham High Street

Fylde Council — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 14:35:12 +0000

Kirkham town centre will soon be home to a temporary Roman Trail that will be displayed in the shop front windows of participating businesses, until 31^st April.

Kirkham’s Roman Trail consists of a fact-finding mission, with visitors to Kirkham high street being invited to discover thirteen facts about the Romans in Britain, some of which directly relate to Kirkham’s own Roman heritage and the knowledge that there was once a Roman fort at Carr Hill.

The participating businesses are: Blossoming Buds & Partipi Parties; Book, Bean and Ice Cream; Candy Bar Grundy’s; Footprints; Kirkham Opticians; Maymans; Morrison’s; Pink Tree Parties Card Outlet; Property World; Serendipity House and Smoosh.

Visitors can simply enjoy exploring the high street and finding facts as they do, or they can enter the Kirkham’s Roman Trail Quiz, by collecting an entry form from Serendipity House, or downloading it from kirkhamtreasures.co.uk.

Everyone who submits a completed entry form by 30^th April will be entered into a prize draw, and three lucky winners will each receive vouchers to the value of £50, to spend in local shops.

This latest initiative is just one of the activities planned by Kirkham Cultural Consortium, a volunteer organisation developed to deliver Historic England’s High Street Action Zone’s Cultural Programme in Kirkham.

In partnership with local organisations and schools, Kirkham Cultural Consortium have developed an ambitious programme of activities planned to celebrate Kirkham’s heritage and engage the community. They include: a community archaeology programme that will make Kirkham’s Roman legacy much more visible and accessible; a heritage inspired town centre mural, and a community lantern festival. All of which are planned to be environmentally sustainable.

This programme of work is reliant on the organisation achieving its fundraising targets. Kirkham cultural consortium has recently received a significant pledge from Lancashire County Council of £20,000, and numerous other pledges from individuals.

Annette York, Chairperson, said, “We are so thankful to those who have pledged so far – big and small – but we still need more people show their support in order to deliver these fantastic projects. Every single pound counts and brings us closer to achieving these exciting project plans for Kirkham.”

To find out more about the projects, or to pledge your support, visit Lancashire Spacehive / crowdfunding: https://www.spacehive.com/the-romans-are-back-in-kirkham

If anyone would like to discuss how to get involved in any of the projects, please contact Helen Juste, Cultural Producer: 07568547471 or helen.juste@positiveplacemakers.org.uk

Spotlight on Amazing Community Work in Fylde

Fylde Council — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 10:06:51 +0000

Two of Fylde’s amazing community charities recently received a visit from Cllr Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, to talk with the volunteers about the wonderful work they do.

Wesley’s Community Café and Larder at Church Road Methodist Church, St Annes, provides a safe place for people to come together to socialise, enjoy a hot meal, and receive donated food and essential toiletries to help them get by. A new creative community programme supported by Church Rd Methodist Church and Fylde Council also offers the opportunity to learn new skills like art, cooking on a budget, IT proficiency, and interview techniques to help further enrich their lives.

Recognition for Wesley’s has been well-earned, with each of their three locations earning a 5* Food Hygiene Rating in 2022, and visits from such esteemed persons as the High Sheriff of Lancashire to present a certificate in recognition of their ‘great and valuable services to the community’.

IHOPE work to support the Fylde community and its residents in a variety of ways, from beach cleaning and redistribution of unwanted household items to presenting gifts to the lonely, isolated and vulnerable on special occasions such as Christmas or birthdays.

Both Wesley’s Community Café and Larder and IHOPE have been able to benefit from funding provided or administered by Fylde Council, with a £1,300 grant to Wesley’s from the Fylde Community Grants in 2019 to help refit their kitchen, and both organisations receiving funding through post-COVID recovery grants and cost of living support.

Cllr Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “As Leader I am proud to be able to highlight the invaluable contributions organisations like Wesley’s and IHOPE make to our communities, bringing real positive differences to the lives of Fylde residents. As a borough we are fortunate to have such a wealth of generous volunteers and community spirit, and Fylde Council are always ready to provide support, whether through offering the Fylde Community Grants scheme to help local organisations help others or by directly intervening such as our coordination of the Warm Spaces in Fylde programme.”

If you are part of a voluntary, community or faith group and are interested in applying for a grant to support your work, visit the Fylde Council website to read about the grants available, their eligibility criteria, and the application process.

Wesley’s and IHOPE are always looking for volunteers and donations to help their charitable causes. Visit their homepages to find out how you can help:

Wesley’s Community Café & Larder (Facebook)

IHOPE Fylde

North Beach Public Conveniences And Changing Places Toilets Now Open!

Fylde Council — Mon, 20 Mar 2023 14:09:16 +0000

The new permanent toilet facility at North Beach Car Park and the Changing Places Toilet at the adjacent North Beach Wind Sports Centre are now open to the public.

The North Beach area, located in St Annes off Clifton Drive North, has become increasingly popular in recent years for visitors and motorhomes, and with the opening of the North Beach Wind Sports Centre, Fylde Council’s Operational Management Committee voted to approve the installation of a new modular public convenience to accommodate the additional footfall.

The Changing Places Toilet facility is one of three funded by Fylde Council’s successful application for the Changing Places Grant in 2021/22, providing a grant of £108,000 supplemented by an additional £12,000 from the Council for a total of £120,000 to cover the cost of establishing these facilities in three locations.

Cllr Roger Small, Chair of the Operational Management Committee, said: “Our programme to upgrade the Council-owned public conveniences across the borough has been a tremendous success, and we are very proud to now be able to open the first of our Changing Places Toilet locations for those who may need additional facilities. These new installations at North Beach are proof of Fylde Council’s commitment to ensure that all our visitors have easy access to clean, appropriate facilities.”

The North Beach public convenience is a new modular toilet block consisting of one disabled access toilet and two standard cubicles, installed and serviced by Danfo, and with a fee of £0.40 in line with other Fylde Council owned facilities. A new lighting column provides illumination and a water bottle filler mounted to the exterior provides a free hydration option for people walking the beach.

Over 250,000 people in the UK need larger facilities to help them get out and about, enjoying the day-to-day activities which many of us take for granted. To use a toilet in safety and comfort, these people need to be able to access a Changing Places Toilet, which has additional equipment such as a height adjustable changing bench and a ceiling hoist, as well as extra space for carers.

To read more about the Changing Places campaign, including opportunities to get involved and an official CPT map showing facilities in your area, visit the Changing Places website. For a list of Council-owned public conveniences, their locations and opening times, visit the Fylde Council website.

Fylde Council and North West Aerospace Alliance Announce New Business Support Partnership

Fylde Council — Thu, 09 Mar 2023 10:07:44 +0000

Fylde Council is excited to announce our new partnership with the North West Aerospace Alliance who are delivering a new project to support diversification in Aerospace, Automotive, and Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing businesses across Fylde, made possible following approval of the Council’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

There are approximately 15,000 jobs in Fylde within the wider Manufacturing and the Professional, Scientific and Technical business sectors, making these the largest employment sectors across the borough, which is why Fylde Council has joined forces with the NW Aerospace Alliance to support these important businesses.

If you are located in Fylde and have a business in the Aerospace, Automotive or Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing sectors, why not take advantage of the free advice and support available to you until March 2025.

From this new partnership with the NW Aerospace Alliance, businesses can expect to:

Receive tailored one-one advice and support unique to your business and sector from industry experts who will help you to identify new growth opportunities
Benefit from direct introductions with well-established successful businesses to gain a greater understanding of specific requirements of supply chains
Hear first hand experiences from peers and guest speakers at a focused annual event, with the opportunity to learn, share knowledge and experiences, and work collaboratively
Introductions to the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre
Support to identify skills gaps and upskilling opportunities
Benefit from the NW Aerospace Alliance’s direct relationships with Government, colleagues from other Aerospace Alliances across England as well as their network of businesses from across the north west.

By offering one-one support and opening up opportunities for businesses to work collaboratively, this project aims to support individual businesses to diversify, support their resilience by accessing new markets which in turn supports growth, job creation and sustainability. Working together and sharing knowledge encourages innovation and the development of new products and services.

Paula Gill CEO North West Aerospace Alliance said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Fylde Council helping to support resilience, growth and sustainability in businesses within the Aerospace, Automotive, Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing sectors across the Fylde area. Adapting and diversifying for businesses in the current climate is even more important now and we are looking forward to sharing our expertise and knowledge identifying organisations that need and will most benefit from coordinated business support and in assisting them to engage with the right level of support and at the right time”.

Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “Fylde is fortunate to be home to numerous businesses from specialist sectors, and it is a priority of our UKSPF Partnership Group to help them flourish. We are delighted to work together with our partners in the NWAA to further support these valued contributors to our communities and local economy through the use of UK Shared Prosperity Fund monies.

“Here at Fylde Council we value all of our businesses and the contributions they make to the local economy, which is why we have committed almost 25% of our total UKSPF allocation to supporting businesses across Fylde. If your business is in any of these sectors and you feel you could benefit from this project, or if you’re a Fylde business and want to know what other support is available, please get in touch!”

If your business is in any of these sectors and you feel you could benefit from this project, or if you’re a Fylde business and want to know what other support is available, please get in touch. Visit our dedicated business website InvestinFylde.co.uk or email Invest@Fylde.gov.uk and our team will be in touch to advise.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a central pillar of the UK government’s Levelling Up agenda and provides £2.6 billion of funding for local investment by March 2025. The Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus

Fylde ACU British Sand Masters Returns to St Annes for 2023

Fylde Council — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 11:21:36 +0000

The Fylde ACU British Sand Masters will be returning to St Annes North Beach on Saturday/Sunday 29/30 July 2023 for another thrilling, admission-free weekend of racing.

After last year’s spectacular success, the Sand Masters 2023 will be extended to a two-day event, with the support event on Saturday 29 July and the main racing on Sunday 30 July. A new addition for 2023 is a funfair offering wholesome fun for all the family.

Presented by Cheshire Grasstrack Club and supported by Fylde Council, the free admission events will see solo bikes, sidecars and quad bikes racing in a series of contests from 12.30pm each day on a purpose-built oval track north of the North Beach area.

Cllr Michael Sayward, Chairman of Fylde Council’s Tourism and Leisure Committee, said: “We are delighted to welcome back the Fylde ACU British Sand Masters competition this year. The previous event was a great day out for residents and visitors, and with this year’s tournament expanding to a second day, there’s even more opportunity to watch some of the most talented riders in the country compete. We are fortunate that the beaches of St Annes allow us to host special events such as these while still allowing ample room for people to stroll and enjoy our beautiful coastline.”

All competitors must be licensed via the Auto-Cycle Union (ACU), the governing body of British Motorcycle Sport, and the event will be marshalled by the members of the Cheshire Grasstrack Club.

To ensure safety and minimise disruption to the local community, the track perimeter will be fenced with heavy duty plastic mesh, with additional safety rope and post fencing, and all machines will be examined to ensure compliance with ACU handbook regulations, which states sound must not exceed 81db. The track will be carefully dismantled following the event to ensure no trace remains.

Attendees will be able to enjoy refreshments at the food and drinks court adjacent to the track area, where stalls from trade interests and sponsors will also be available along with the funfair.

The first race each day will begin at 12.30pm. Admission is free to the public, though donations are welcomed and would be greatly appreciated.

Visit the Cheshire Grasstrack Club Facebook page for more details: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054292429377

For more information about other exciting events taking place in Fylde, visit the Discover Fylde website: https://www.discoverfylde.co.uk/events/

Kirkham Futures Public Realm: Market Square Works Ongoing

Fylde Council — Thu, 02 Mar 2023 14:11:27 +0000

Works are now well underway on the first phase of the Kirkham Futures Public Realm Improvements, as contractors have begun the redevelopment of Market Square and the surrounding town centre.

This ambitious project seeks to undertake enhancements to Kirkham’s public realm and create a coherent enhanced townscape quality which make it a much more pleasant place to live, shop, visit and enjoy.

Over the duration of these works in the centre (January 2023 – August 2023), there will be a series of multi-way temporary traffic lights stationed in Kirkham on Poulton Street, Church Street, Preston Street, and Freckleton Street. Where possible, motorists are advised to take alternative routes into the town centre that avoid these roads. Further information regarding roadworks can be found on the Lancashire County Council website.

Historic England’s Zinnie Denby-Mann said: “We’re delighted to see these improvements underway which complement the investment in Kirkham’s amazing heritage that has already been delivered through the High Street Heritage Action Zone programme, for the benefit of the local community and visitors alike.”

Commenting on behalf of lead contractor Eric Wright Civil Engineering, Project Manager David Bagley said: “Our team has made great progress already since January and we’re currently on target for completing the public realm works in the summer as planned. The works will not only deliver a superb new town centre square for Kirkham but will see the restoration and replacement of the historic fish stones and newly commissioned iron works which will further reflect the town’s heritage.”

The design of Market Square and the adjacent streetscapes was developed by The Paul Hogarth Company. Andrew Haley, Director, said of the design: “It will restore a heart for the town that puts people first. It will be a safe and welcoming environment during the day and after dark, that supports businesses and provides a focus for events. It will have a strong character, rooted in its history, but incorporating the requirements of a modern high street.”

Cllr Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council, said: “I have heard so many positive comments welcoming the new look for Kirkham which will pay tribute to its history whilst encouraging community and pride of place.

“Now that the works have started there has inevitably been traffic congestion caused by the disruption to journeys through the high street, as well as displacement of parking. All parties are working hard to minimise the inconvenience and keep everyone informed so they can plan their journeys. Please support your local shops in Kirkham during this time as they rely on your business.”

Mark Menzies, MP for Fylde, said: “This is a major milestone for Kirkham. With work underway and spades in the ground there are fantastic opportunities ahead for the town and its businesses.

“I have been proud to campaign for the Futures Project throughout the bidding processes, which secured £13 million from the Government and Lancashire County Council.

“I cannot wait to see the Project come to life, creating a revitalised High Street and Market Square that respects Kirkham’s history and delivers for its future.”

County Councillor Aidy Riggott, Cabinet Member for Economic Development & Growth at Lancashire County Council, said: “The beginning of the Kirkham Futures project is exciting and will bring major new investment to the local area. The project is designed to help stimulate significant economic growth and regeneration, bringing further opportunities to the area, whilst improving the town centre for local residents and existing businesses.”

To read more about the Kirkham Futures project, including further details about the Public Realm Improvements, visit the Kirkham Futures website and sign up for the Fylde Council newsletter.

Iconic Kirkham Market Square Features To Be Reinstated Following Works

Fylde Council — Wed, 01 Mar 2023 13:08:12 +0000

The iconic fishstones and lamppost at the heart of Kirkham’s Market Square have been temporarily removed to allow the public realm works, being carried out through the Kirkham Futures Programme, to progress and will be returning once the project is near completion.

To facilitate the ongoing public realm works within Market Square, the fishstones and lamppost will be carefully removed and stored securely at the project compound. At a later stage of the project, these treasured landmarks are to be returned to Market Square and relocated slightly, approximately 1.5 metres in a south-westerly direction from their previous position. The current proposals include this relocation, the resetting of the fishstones to their original height, and the provision of lighting beneath the stones. The appearance of the lamppost will be retained, other than a repair to one of the legs and a dark green colouration.

A spokesperson for Fylde Council said: “Residents can rest assured that the fishstones and lamppost will soon be back where they belong. We fully understand how crucial it is that these beloved heritage assets are carefully preserved and returned to their rightful place in Market Square once the project has progressed sufficiently to allow their reinstatement.”

The fishstones, which date back to 1829, are flat slabs of stone set on stone uprights to form two semi-circular counters from which fish was sold on market days. In the centre of these stones stands a cast iron lamppost, originating from 1872, which was subsequently removed before being reinstated in 1982. The lamppost itself has a richly decorated base, with a fluted shaft supporting a lamp.

The town’s location away from city retail centres suggests that the market would have been frequently busy, and its proximity to sea fishing landing places makes a fish seller an obvious fixture. Ice blocks may have been kept between the legs of the fishstones to keep the fish laid on top cool prior to the invention and widespread adoption of electric refrigeration. Today, the fishstones are a clear reminder of the function of the market square, and along with the lamp items, enjoy Grade 2 listed status.