Agenda item

The North Area Council received an update on the progress of the Darton East, Darton West, Old Town and St Helens Ward Alliances.  Members were reminded of the requirement for Ward Alliance minutes to be received by the Area Council.

DARTON EAST - The Ward Alliance supported the installation and removal of Mapplewell Christmas lights.  3 Christmas trees were funded across the Ward and were well received by residents.  A new website will be funded and will be used to promote Mapplewell village, community activities, local businesses etc.

DARTON WEST - Parks have been reviewed to identify any essential works needed, litter picking has continued in line with social distancing guidelines.  Costings have been obtained to install a water tap for outside the Church for members of the public to use.  £2000 was put aside for Christmas activity packs, food parcels etc for 58 families but wasn't used due to charitable donations and will be used for similar activities during the half term holidays.

OLD TOWN - A number of funding applications have been agreed.  The Ward Alliance has managed to save £3000 through Christmas tree sponsorship.  Cllr Pickering reported that there have been a number of recent serious crime incidents which were not reported to either Wakefield and Barnsley Police.  As a result of this, it has been agreed that major incidents across borders will now be reported by each Police force. 

ST HELENS  - Thanks were expressed to all ward members who had managed to attend meetings despite technical difficulties.  Leyla Brook attended the November meeting and gave lots of information about what was happening in the Ward and was able to offer advice on how to go ahead with the Christmas events in line with Covid guidelines.   Christmas packs were delivered across the Ward and Father Christmas was able to safely visit the Community Shop and local schools.  Lots of activities are coming up over the next few months, mostly online and over the telephone but nonetheless the support has been fantastic. 

RESOLVED that the updates be noted and Members, volunteers and group be thanked for their hard work and support over the past months.  Members were reminded that the Area team is available for help and support alongside other officers.