october2024 – Fylde Council

Remembrance Sunday Services in Fylde 2024

Fylde Council — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 11:56:15 +0000

On Sunday, 10 November, communities across Fylde will come together to commemorate Remembrance Sunday, a solemn occasion to honour the service and sacrifice of those who have defended our freedoms.

A series of parades and services will be held throughout the borough, providing residents with the opportunity to pay their respects and reflect on the sacrifices made by our armed forces.

Services are always well attended and will take place as follows:

St Annes: Assemble at the Pier car park at 10:30 AM. The parade will proceed to the memorial in Ashton Gardens at 10:38 AM, led by Mayor of Fylde, Cllr Karen Henshaw JP.

Lytham: Gather at the Assembly Rooms at 10:30 AM, with the procession departing at 10:45 AM. The civic party will be led by Deputy Mayor, Councillor Joanne Gardner.

Kirkham: Assemble on Orders Lane at 1:30 PM and move off at 1:45 PM. The Remembrance service will commence at the Cenotaph at 2:00 PM, followed by refreshments at the Community Centre.

Wesham: Led by Mayor Cllr Liz Bickerstaffe, assemble at the War Memorial at 10:45 AM. A service of remembrance will be held, followed by refreshments at Wesham Community Centre.

Armistice Day Arrangements

A two-minute silence will take place on Monday 11 November to honour Armistice Day. The Mayor of Fylde will be attending at Ashton Gardens, the Deputy Mayor of Fylde will attend Lytham Cenotaph, and the Mayor of Kirkham will attend Kirkham Cenotaph.

Cllr Karen Henshaw JP, Mayor of Fylde, said: “Remembrance Sunday is a time to express our gratitude and respect for those who have selflessly served their country. We honour their memory and the sacrifices they made to protect our freedoms.”

For those who leave never to return. For those who return but are never the same.”

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Fylde Council approves funding for the improvements to St Annes swimming pool

Fylde Council — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 13:56:11 +0000

Fylde Council has approved funding of £1,900,000 for improvement works at St Annes Swimming Pool. This funding will support essential refurbishments to enhance the facility and address key areas identified through recent condition surveys. Feedback from the Active Lancashire Survey has also underscored the need for upgrades to swimming facilities in Fylde, which have been carefully considered in the decision.

In addition to this investment, further works funded by the Swimming Pool Support Fund will take place over the coming months, which include the replacement of existing boilers and the installation of new solar panels. A condition of the Swimming Pool Support Fund grant is that the pool remains open for at least 10 years, with the funds dedicated to improving energy efficiency over medium to long term. Interim refurbishments to the reception area are also scheduled to take place over the October half-term, which will include a short closure.

The Council has also approved a procurement strategy to secure a new operating contract for the pool, starting in September 2025. This strategy ensures that the appointed operator will oversee both day-to-day operations and the delivery of the refurbishment works which are set to commence from the new contract.

Cllr Karen Buckley, Leader of the Council said: “This investment marks a significant step forward in improving the facility for residents, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to provide high quality parks, open spaces and leisure facilities. St Annes Swimming Pool is an important community asset, and these improvements will ensure it remains fit for purpose for years to come”

Cllr Jayne Nixon, Fylde’s Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure & Culture added: “The Active Lancashire Survey emphasised the need for improved swimming facilities in Fylde. This investment not only addresses the feedback received but will also ensure the long-term sustainability of St Annes Swimming Pool, while enhancing the experience of residents and visitors who use the facility. Ensuring a welcoming and energy-efficient environment is crucial for the pool’s future. We look forward to working with partners and stakeholders to deliver the best possible service for our community.”

The refurbishment will extend the facility’s lifespan to 25 years, ensuring its long-term sustainability and reenforcing the council’s commitment to exploring all practicable options to support swimming provision in Fylde, in line with the council’s recent notice of motion.

For more information and updates on swimming in Fylde, please visit: https://new.fylde.gov.uk/swimming-in-fylde/

Fylde Council expresses concerns regarding changes to National Planning Policy

Fylde Council — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 13:49:41 +0000

Fylde Council has submitted their response to the Government’s consultation on proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

Following consideration of the proposed changes by the Local Plan Steering Group, the Council’s Head of Planning was asked to write to the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, outlining the Council’s position.

Councillor Richard Redcliffe, Chairman of Fylde’s Planning Committee and Deputy Leader of the Council, said:

“We consider that it is important to retain a plan led system rather than planning applications being made on a piecemeal basis.

“Fylde Council has significant concerns that some of the changes proposed by the government, particularly relating to housing supply and the interim arrangements, would undermine the development strategy set out in our local plan which was only adopted in December 2021 following extensive consultation.”

A full copy of Fylde Council’s representation is available below:

Fylde Council response to NPPF consultation September 2024

The government has advised that, due to the number of representations it has received, it is likely that revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework will not be published until the new year.

Further details about the proposed changes to national planning policy are available on the government’s website at: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/proposed-reforms-to-the-national-planning-policy-framework-and-other-changes-to-the-planning-system

St Annes Residents and Businesses Invited to Learn About Event Space Project

Fylde Council — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 09:12:37 +0000

The St Annes Event Space Project, a key component of the town’s regeneration masterplan, is nearing a significant milestone. To keep the community informed, Fylde Council is hosting two public events:

Public update: Wednesday 16 October 2024, from 1pm to 6pm at Fylde Council Town Hall.
Business update: Thursday 17 October 2024, from 5pm to 7pm (presentation starts at 5:30pm) at Fylde Council Town Hall.

These events will provide attendees with detailed updates on the project’s progress, including its timeline, transportation considerations, and potential economic benefits for local businesses.

Residents and business owners will have the opportunity to ask questions and share their feedback directly with the project team.

The Event Space, once completed, will transform St Annes’ main square into a vibrant hub for year-round events, markets, and community activities. This new space is expected to increase foot traffic to local businesses and boost tourism, contributing to the overall revitalisation of the town.

Councillor Karen Buckley, Leader of Fylde Council commented on the project’s significance: “The St Annes Event Space is a testament to our commitment to creating a thriving and dynamic town centre.

“This investment will not only enhance the quality of life for residents but also provide a platform for businesses to flourish.

“We encourage everyone to attend these events and learn more about how this exciting project will benefit St Annes.”

For more information or to submit questions in advance, please visit the St Annes Masterplan and Event Space website.

New Stanner Bank Entrance Enhances: Fairhaven Lake and Gardens

Fylde Council — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 13:17:20 +0000

Fylde Council is delighted to announce the completion of the new Stanner Bank entrance at Fairhaven Lake and Gardens. This significant upgrade has transformed a previously underutilised area into a welcoming and accessible gateway to the popular attraction.

The project has involved the installation of new, accessible steps that complement the existing sea defences. The steps are designed to be easier to navigate than standard steps, making them suitable for those who may struggle with stairs but do not require a ramp. A ramped path will remain alongside the steps for those who prefer or require that option.

The new entrance is framed by the recently renovated toilet buildings, creating a fantastic first impression for visitors. Future plans include soft landscaping, such as planting trees and shrubs, to further enhance the aesthetic appeal of the area.

Cllr Jayne Nixon, Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure & Culture, said: “We are thrilled to unveil this exciting new addition to Fairhaven Lake and Gardens. The new entrance is a testament to our commitment to improving the visitor experience and making our public spaces more accessible for everyone.”

Fylde Council launches initiative to address empty homes

Fylde Council — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 14:26:35 +0000

Fylde Council is committed to addressing the issue of long-term empty properties within the borough. These properties can pose significant problems for both property owners and the wider community, including physical damage, reduced property values, and increased crime rates.

To help bring these properties back into use and revitalise local neighbourhoods, Fylde Council is developing an Empty Homes Strategy. As part of this initiative, the Council is inviting property owners to provide information about their vacant properties.

By completing a brief questionnaire, property owners can help the Council identify potential solutions and support programs to address the issue of empty homes.

The questionnaire will gather information about the property, any steps being taken to bring it back into occupation, and the owner’s contact details.

Councillor Chris Dixon, Fylde Council’s Lead Member for Social Wellbeing, commented, “Empty homes can have a detrimental impact on our communities.

“We can find ways to bring these properties back into use and improve the quality of life for our residents. Empty homes can blight neighbourhoods, can fall into disrepair and be a real concern. And we know there is a real need for properties in the housing market.”

To complete the questionnaire, please click here.