Agenda item

Darton East – held on 14 June and 12 July 2022

Darton West – held on 27 July 2022

Old Town – held on 12 July 2022

St Helen's – held on 30 June 2022

The meeting received the notes from the Darton East Ward Alliance held on 14 June and 12 July 2022; Darton West Ward Alliance held on 27 July 2022; Old Town Ward Alliance held on 12 July 2022; and St Helen's Ward Alliance held on 30 June 2022.

Councillor Hunt provided an update regarding the work in Darton East.  He remarked that there were a number of Ward Alliance Fund applications pending, and it was thought that the budget remaining within the Ward Alliance Fund may be tight.   Members were made aware of summer activities held in Mapplewell Park, which had been arranged with the Community Development Officer and supported by volunteers.  An average of 15-20 young people attended each session with around 50-60 at the last one held.  A disco was also held at the Mapplewell Village Hall which was well attended.   Members heard that Darton East Making a Difference Awards had been arranged to take place on 30September 2022 to recognise the contribution of groups and volunteers in the area.

Councillor T Cave spoke of the work of Darton West Ward Alliance, noting that the Ward Alliance Fund was likely to be stretched by the end of the financial year.  The recent focus had been on the summer activity plan, which had taken place in different venues throughout the Ward.  Thanks were given to the work of the Area Team in establishing the programme and thanks were also given to members of the Ward Alliance who volunteered.  Attendance had been varied but it had been generally successful and would provide learning for future years.

Mention was made of the hanging baskets which had looked good but were only in situ for a short space of time, with the Alliance being disappointed with the service received.  It was noted that the Ward Alliance had consciously started to plan early for Christmas events to ensure they were coordinated within the Ward.

Councillor Newing noted issues with hanging baskets in the Old Town Ward which had resulted in a decision to defer installation until next year, which in hindsight was the correct decision due to the exceptionally hot weather.  Planning was ongoing in relation to the planting of spring bulbs and the coordination of Christmas events and siting of Christmas trees. 

An update on the work in the St Helen’s Ward was provided by the Mayor, Councillor Tattersall.  It was noted that Ad Astra had organised training for community volunteers including first aid and food hygiene, which had received lots of interest. The seating in Smithies Recreation Ground had received funding to be repainted, and work had recently started. Members heard how discussions had taken place with Twiggs regarding the installation of the Memorial Bench and associated unveiling.

St Helen’s Gala had been recently held and was well attended, and the Alliance had turned their attention towards planning of Christmas events and the siting of trees.

It was noted that St Helen’s Ward had been fortunate to have the hanging baskets installed early in the season, many of which had been supported by local businesses, both in sponsoring and watering.

RESOLVED that the notes and updates from the respective Ward Alliances be noted.