Chairman’s Annual Report 2018-2019
The financial situation for 2018-2019 has improved enabling the Parish Council to manage its finances in a more productive way and whilst the outlook is promising we still need to continue to manage the finances in an effective way.
We have undertaken a number of new projects this year commencing with the new War Memorial and seats on Havercroft Green, in addition we have fenced the areas round the Green to make it more safe especially for children, the old seat which was at the bottom of the green but broken at the request of a number of parishioners has been refurbished by adults with learning disabilities at Thornes Park and this was financed by Havercroft Community Group.
In addition drainage work was also completed at the bottom of the Green.
The Parish Council received a Capital Grant of 15K from Wakefield Council to carry out the works on the Green with the Parish Council making a contribution.
It was necessary to remove a number of trees on the green which were unsafe but where a tree was removed we have planted a new tree.
The Defibrillator outside Excelsior Hair Stylists has been used on three occasions and we are looking to put one in the Community Learning Centre.
This year we provided new Christmas trees on the lampposts throughout the village rather than the features supplied by Wakefield Council making a substantial saving.
Wakefield Council provided the Christmas tree which was funded by the Parish Council and in addition we have planted our own Christmas Tree so that in the years to come we can decorate our tree rather than purchasing one every year. Unfortunately this Christmas tree was snapped in half by a person unknown this wanton vandalism is something out of our control.
The allotments continue to be successful and we have a waiting list for the Wimpey allotments, we intend once again to hold the best kept allotment competition on both of the allotment sites with judging taking place early August.
The Community Learning Centre after a financial period of uncertainty is now back to providing courses due to some funding that has been secured. I would like to thank all Centre staff for their hard work and their commitment through the difficult time over the past twelve months.
Havercroft Library continues to flourish with new members joining and volunteer staff making a big difference.
The Parish Council continue to make a grant to Rycroft Leisure.
Finally I would like to thank all Councillors and the Clerk for their continued commitment to the work they undertake in the Parish and to the help and support that they have given me.
Albert Manifield
Chairman of Havercroft-with-Cold Hiendley Parish Council.