Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
LEIGHTON BROOK CLEAN-UP – A BIG THANK YOU!
On Monday, I was joined by a small but incredibly dedicated team of volunteers, and together we pulled on our wellies and got stuck into cleaning up the brook in Leighton Brook Park.
It wasn’t easy – and it definitely wasn’t the most fragrant job, but we managed to remove a shocking amount of waste, including a shopping trolley, two bikes, a garden chair, a small sofa, a tyre, and lots of other rubbish.
These kinds of items have no place in our natural spaces. Our local parks and brooks should be areas we can all enjoy – not dumping grounds. Keeping them clean is vital for both the environment and the community.
A huge thank you to the fantastic team on the day – especially Anna, Glyn, and Peter, who all worked incredibly hard and made a real difference.
Also a big thank you to Lindsay, Ingrid, and the Crewe Town Council Rangers and to Caroline from Cheshire East street cleansing team for helping arrange the collection and disposal of everything we cleared.
Let’s keep looking after our green spaces – together we can make a real difference! 
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
EXCITED FOR TOMORROW! 
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
CREWE ARMED FORCES & VETERANS BREAKFAST CLUB – CELEBRATING 6 YEARS 
It was a real honour to be invited once again to the Crewe Armed Forces & Veterans Breakfast Club this morning at The Four Eagles, Crewe, joined by the new Cheshire East Armed Forces Champion, Councillor Anthony Harrison.
We’re incredibly lucky to have such a strong and supportive Armed Forces and Veterans community here in Crewe and Nantwich. The club meets every Saturday morning to give those currently serving, and those who have served, the chance to connect, share stories, and support one another.
It was fantastic to see some new faces and chat about how we can continue working together on projects to support our local forces community. Many important ideas and issues were discussed this morning, highlighting the strength of the community and a shared commitment to supporting our veterans.
A huge thank you to Ian Warrender RE and his colleagues for all the hard work they put in to keep the group going – your dedication is truly appreciated by everyone.
If you’re serving, or have served, you’ll find a warm welcome every Saturday from 10am at The Four Eagles, pub (opposite Morrisons) in Crewe.
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
WILSON HOUSE BEAVERS - A BIG THANK YOU!
What a fantastic evening yesterday with the brilliant Wilson House Beavers! 
It was wonderful to join them for a community clean-up at Brooklands by Badger Avenue – all part of getting our town ready for the Crewe Krazy Races this Sunday. 
The Beavers were full of energy, working hard in the evening sunshine to make Brooklands Park shine – and we had a blast doing it too! 
A huge thanks as well to Crewe Town Council for providing the Beavers and Scouts with some fab new equipment – it'll make a real difference during their sessions and adventures.
Make sure you join us for the Crewe Krazy Races this Sunday 25th May 2025 – it’s all kicking off from 10.45am along Ford Lane, Broad Street, and Brooklands. Don’t miss it – it’s going to be brilliant! 
#CreweKrazyRaces #WilsonHouseBeavers #CreweCommunity #CreweTownCouncil
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
CHARLIE'S FIRST TIME AS RUN DIRECTOR – CAN YOU HELP?
Charlie is stepping up as Run Director at Crewe parkrun in Queens Park this Saturday – let’s get a great team behind him!
Still needed:
2 marshals
Can you help? Email crewe@parkrun.com, or comment or message via their Crewe Parkrun page.
Well done Charlie 
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
WORKING TOGETHER FOR OUR COMMUNITY 
It was a pleasure to catch up this morning with PCSOs Jen, Lorraine and Penny, Officer Dan (who kindly took the photo!), and the brilliant Gemma and Gemma from Start Well at The Wishing Well - who many of you will have met recently in our local park, providing fantastic activities for our young people over Easter and our weekly Street Sports sessions,
This week, Crewe Police are supporting Operation Sceptre – a national campaign focused on tackling knife crime and raising awareness of its dangers. We spoke about this vital initiative, as well as wider discussions around local issues raised by residents.
As part of the campaign, officers have been visiting schools to educate young people about the risks of knife crime, carrying out knife sweeps across Crewe, and placing amnesty bins in key locations.
A huge thank you to everyone involved this morning!
If you have any local concerns you'd like to raise to Crewe St Barnabas Police, please don’t hesitate to report them by calling 101 or by completing the Residents’ Voice Survey.
online1.snapsurveys.com/ResidentsVoice
Let’s keep working together to keep our community safe 
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
QUICK LITTER PICK - DONE!
Did a quick litter pick this morning while waiting for a meeting with our PCSOs from Crewe St Barnabas Police 
If you fancy getting involved and would like some litter picking equipment, just drop me a message – I’ll make sure you’re equipped and ready to go! 
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
YOUTH & EX-FORCES ARMED FORCES ENGAGEMENT & RECRUITMENT EVENT
It was fantastic to attend today’s event at Crewe Market Hall and Lyceum square – a brilliant gathering of organisations from across the Armed Forces community, support services, employers, and local partners.
I had some really insightful conversations, learning more about the support available for those currently serving and for veterans too, as well as the wide range of job opportunities on offer – both for young people looking to serve and those exploring careers with local businesses.
Here in Crewe, we have a fantastic Forces community, and it was great to see everyone coming together, making connections, and sharing ideas.
I’ve gathered lots of useful information from today’s exhibitors and will be putting together a round-up for residents who’d like to find out more about the support and opportunities available – whether it’s employment, training, or community services. I’ll be posting that soon – keep an eye out!
A huge thank you to everyone who attended, and to all who made today’s event such a success!
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
TODAY IN CREWE – DISCOVER LIFE IN THE ARMED FORCES & UNIFORMED SERVICES
Happening TODAY – Wednesday 21st May, from 10:00am to 2:00pm at Crewe Market Hall!
If you’re a college student thinking about your next steps, or simply curious about careers in the Armed Forces or uniformed services, this event is for you.
Meet the Army, Navy, RAF, Submariners and more, plus explore roles in the emergency services. Chat with support organisations like the Royal British Legion, AFVBC, Walking with the Wounded, and others.
Hands-on experiences, military gear and vehicles, interactive stands – all under one roof!
Whether you're planning your future or just want to explore what's out there – everyone is welcome.
Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity right in the heart of Crewe.
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
CHESHIRE EAST HIGHWAYS – NOT GOOD ENOUGH
Last week, I spotted a cracked manhole cover on Frank Webb Avenue near Kettell Avenue – with a hole in it and exposed wiring underneath. A clear safety hazard, both as a trip risk and something that could have collapsed if driven over. As most residents know, much of the parking on Frank Webb Avenue is on-street, so this was particularly worrying.
I reported it to Cheshire East Highways for urgent investigation.
Their response?
“The enquiry has been assessed and does not present a risk to highway users at this time... State changed to: No further action.”
Frankly, that’s not good enough. While CE Highways may not be responsible for making the repair themselves, they are responsible for keeping our streets safe.
So, I contacted BT/Openreach directly – as it appeared to be one of their covers – and to their credit, they’ve already been out to make the site safe, with a permanent repair on the way.
I’ll continue to follow up and push for real action – even if it means doing it myself.
I’ve also raised wider concerns about this incident and others like it directly with the Highways team. We deserve better, and I’ll keep working to make sure these issues aren’t just dismissed here in St Barnabas.
If you spot a highways issue - report it here
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
ST BARNABAS COMMUNITY STAYS TOGETHER -BOUNDARIES CONFIRMED!
The Local Government Boundary Commission for England has completed its review of council ward boundaries following recent consultations - and it’s great news for our community here in St Barnabas!
Our ward will stay exactly as it is, with no changes to the boundaries. I’m really pleased that the strength and identity of our local community has been recognised, and that we won’t be merged with other, different parts of Crewe.
The Commission said:
"The Liberal Democrats, Councillor Pratt and three local residents expressed support for our proposal to retain the existing boundaries of Crewe St Barnabas ward, content that its name and boundaries continue to reflect local identities. Given the support we have received for this ward during consultation, we are confirming our draft Crewe St Barnabas ward as final."
I’m very proud to represent our fantastic area, and although it’s still a while until the next local elections in 2027, I hope you’ll continue to support me in standing up for St Barnabas ward as I have done since 2023. 
A big thank you to everyone who supported keeping our community united - this result shows the power of local voices working together.
If you'd like to read the full report or learn more, you can find it here:
www.lgbce.org.uk/all-reviews/cheshire-east
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
CREWE KRAZY RACES IS BACK!
Join us for a day of wacky fun at Brooklands Park (off Badger Avenue) next Sunday, 25th May 2025. Watch gravity-powered soapbox karts race down Ford Lane, and cheer on the creative teams competing for prizes like Fastest Kart, Best Design, and more!
Event Schedule:
10:45am – Official Opening
11:00am – Morning Racing
1:00pm – Lunch Break
2:00pm – Afternoon Racing
3:30pm – Third Run
4:00pm – Final Race (Top 10 Fastest)
4:30pm – Prize Giving
5:00pm – Event Closes
It’s a fun day out with live music, food stalls, and more! 
Best of all, it’s FREE to attend! Brought to you by Crewe Town Council
Let’s make this year’s Krazy Races the best yet! 
#CreweKrazyRaces #SoapboxDerby #familyfun
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
COMMUNITY CLEAN-UP AT LEIGHTON BROOK PARK – TOMORROW! (MONDAY 19TH MAY AT 2PM)
Hi everyone,
Just a quick heads-up that tomorrow (Monday 19th May) I’ll be down at Leighton Brook Park at 2pm for a community clean-up of the brook and surrounding area – and I’d love for you to join us!
We’ll be clearing any rubbish from the brook and giving the park a tidy-up to help keep our local area clean, green and welcoming. It’s a great way to get some fresh air, meet neighbours, and do something positive for our community.
Pickers and bags will be provided, but feel free to bring your own if you have them.
Where? By the brook, near the playground in Leighton Brook Park (Frank Webb Avenue)
When? From 2pm tomorrow (Monday 19th)
Even if you can only spare a short while, every little bit helps – hope to see some of you there!
#CommunityCleanUp #LeightonBrook #CreweCommunity #LoveCreweStBarnabas
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
PICNIC IN THE PARK RETURNS TO CREWE FOR 2025!
Crewe Town Council is delighted to announce that Picnic in the Park is back this summer – a free, family-friendly music festival in the heart of Crewe.
Date: Saturday 21st June 2025
Time: 12pm - 6pm
Location: Queens Park, Crewe, CW2 7SE
After the huge success of last year’s event, the festival will once again bring a brilliant line-up of local bands to Queens Park, thanks to the ongoing support of the Friends of Queens Park, Crewe.
The 2025 line-up includes:
Crewe Brass – 12pm - 12.30pm (by the Taste for Life Café)
A renowned 4th section brass band kicking off the afternoon.
Shakermaker – 12.30pm - 1.30pm (Main Stage)
A high-energy band covering rock, pop, and indie classics.
Acrylic – 2pm - 3pm (Main Stage)
Local five-piece indie cover band returning after a popular 2024 set.
Vavoom – 3.30pm - 4.30pm (Main Stage)
A powerhouse three-piece rock ‘n’ roll band with vintage vibes.
Teal Band – 5pm - 6pm (Main Stage)
A modern event band inspired by icons of pop, soul and Motown.
Families are welcome to bring their own picnic blankets and food – or enjoy refreshments available throughout the day.
A huge thank you goes to the Friends of Queens Park for their continued support in making this event possible.
More info:
www.crewetowncouncil.gov.uk/whats-on-events/picnic-in-the-park/
Facebook event link: fb.me/e/2FZZZwec9
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
GRAFFITI CLEAN-UP! 
A big thank you to LilaConnect for acting quickly after I raised concerns about graffiti on their street cabinets around our area. They’ve done a cracking job tidying them up — they’re looking so much better now! 
Here’s a before and after from one of the cabinets on Frank Webb Avenue. The difference is clear to see! 
Graffiti doesn’t just look scruffy — it can contribute to a sense of neglect and antisocial behaviour. Keeping our neighbourhood clean and cared-for makes a real difference to how safe and welcoming it feels.
I’m still chasing Openreach to clean up the BT cabinets — and I’ll keep pressing them until it’s sorted.
If you spot graffiti or any local issue, report it here:
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Let’s keep Crewe looking its best!
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
MORE FLY-TIPPING REPORTED AND CLEAN-UPS REQUESTED
I’ve been out and about in our area again and have reported several incidents of fly-tipping on Bowen Cooke Avenue, Darlington Avenue, and Frank Webb Avenue. Clean-ups have been requested to get these areas sorted.
A reminder: household waste should be taken to the Household Waste & Recycling Centre on Pyms Lane – not left on our streets.
Fly-tipping is illegal – and you could face a fixed penalty fine or prosecution if caught. Please dispose of waste responsibly.
Opening times for the Pyms Lane centre:
October to March: 8.30am – 4pm
April to September:
Monday–Friday: 8.30am – 6pm
Saturday & Sunday: 8.30am – 5pm
Please note: If you're planning to visit on a weekend or bank holiday, you’ll need to book a slot in advance.
Full details here:
www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/waste_and_recycling/using-household-waste-recycling-centres/using-household-waste-recycling-centres.aspx
Let’s work together to keep our community clean, safe – and fly-tip free!
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
FLOWERS LANE ZEBRA CROSSING – WORK COMPLETE!
You might remember my earlier post this month about the faded zebra crossing on Flowers Lane near Gordon Geddes Way. Many local residents - especially those walking to and from Leighton Hospital including staff from Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust - raised concerns about how hard it was to see, and I completely agreed that it needed urgent attention.
I’m really pleased to confirm that the lining renewal works have now been completed! Fresh, clear markings are now in place, making the crossing much more visible and safer for everyone using it.
Thanks again to everyone who flagged this up with me – and to Cheshire East Highways for getting it sorted. If you spot something else that needs attention, please do get in touch or report it online.
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Let’s keep pushing for safer, better streets across Crewe! 
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
STEP INTO HEALTH: WALK TO SCHOOL WEEK AT LEIGHTON ACADEMY
Next week, Leighton Academy is taking part in ‘Walk to School Week’ – an exciting opportunity for pupils and families to enjoy the many benefits of walking. Walking to school boosts physical health, improves focus in the classroom, and helps reduce traffic and pollution around the school gates.
Take a look at the poster for more details and get ready to step into a healthier, greener school run!
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
POLICE & CRIME COMMISSIONER MEETING – HAVE YOUR SAY! 
Last month, I had a productive walkabout in St Barnabas with Crewe Policing Inspector Jones, speaking with residents and discussing key local issues.
Next month, I’ll be meeting with Cheshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner right here in Crewe St Barnabas to raise your concerns and push for stronger support for our community at a county level.
But before I meet with the PCC, I want to hear from YOU!
What are your top concerns about policing and community safety?
What would you like me to raise on your behalf?
Please use the link below to share your feedback
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/pcc-meeting-have-your-say/
Together, we can make St Barnabas a safer, better place to live.
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
MINSHULL NEW ROAD - BUMP BUMP!! 
Yesterday, I drove down Minshull New Road and hit what felt like quite a bad pothole!
Today, I took a break from the usual councillor work to enjoy a sunny walk up there - and sure enough, I found a large pothole near the drain gulley near Farmleigh Drive. I’ve reported it to Highways, along with a solidly blocked gulley a bit further along the road.
Fed up with potholes? Me too! 
Help support me as I work to get our roads sorted – every report and bit of support makes a difference.
If you spot an issue like this, it’s quick and easy to report it online:
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Let’s keep Crewe’s roads safe and sorted! 
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
IMPROVING OUR FOOTPATHS – ONE STEP AT A TIME! 
One of the concerns I often hear from local residents is the state of some of our pavements – and I completely agree, they're not always up to scratch.
Recently, I raised issues about the footpath through the park between Frank Webb Avenue and Minshull New Road with Cheshire East Council after residents highlighted how difficult it was to navigate, particularly due to a very uneven section. I'm pleased to report that repairs have now been carried out – building on improvements made here last year. Thanks to the team at James Callaghan Sons & Co for their work!
Unfortunately, the footpath on the other side of Leighton Brook still remains closed due to subsidence. This path isn’t owned by the Council, but I’m continuing to follow it up with Taylor Wimpey and Cheshire East’s planning department in an effort to speed up the repair work so it can be reopened as soon as possible.
Good access for everyone is essential, and I'll continue pushing for better pavements across our community.
I know Badger Avenue is also a priority – I’ve raised this with Highways and, while some small sections have been patched, I’ve ensured it’s now been added to the list for further improvements when funding allows. 
If you spot a damaged pavement or have concerns about accessibility, do let me know – together we can make a difference: www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/contact/
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
ROADWORKS ALERT – SANDIWAY ROAD & WESTBOURNE AVENUE
Please be aware that utility works are scheduled to take place on:
12 May – 14 May 2025
Sandiway Road & Westbourne Avenue
Traffic management: There will be some carriageway and footpath incursion during this time.
If you're travelling in the area, please allow a little extra time and take care around any temporary works.
To report an urgent issue relating to these street/road works – please call 0333 000 5925
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
VE DAY 80TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT – TODAY AT QUEENS PARK! 
Head down to Queens Park, Crewe this afternoon for a FREE VE Day 80 Concert to mark this special occasion!
Sunday 11th May
From 1pm
Queens Park Café, Crewe
Enjoy a fantastic live performance from The Baker Street Belles, and browse a fascinating display of memorabilia and artefacts from the Cheshire Villages Great War Society.
A lovely way to celebrate the day – everyone welcome!
#Crewe #VEDay #VEDay80 #VEDayCrewe #QueensParkCrewe
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
WORKING FOR A SAFER COMMUNITY
Over the Easter break, I met with Crewe police's Inspector Jones to talk about community policing here in St Barnabas.
We spent a couple of hours walking around the area, chatting with residents and discussing local issues - thank you to everyone who took the time to speak with us!
Conversations like these really help shape the priorities for Crewe St Barnabas Police. We talked about a range of concerns, including anti-social behaviour, speeding vehicles, e-bikes, and more.
We'll be doing another walkabout soon, but in the meantime, you can still have your say. Share what matters most to you by completing the Residents' Voice Survey. Your input truly makes a difference.
www.cheshire.police.uk/residentsvoicecrewe
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
FRANK WEBB AVENUE - STREET LIGHTING REPAIRS
It was great to see the street lighting on Frank Webb Avenue finally receiving the repairs I’ve been pushing for – especially the long-awaited repair to the partly installed street light outside the Premier shop. I’ve been chasing this repair for quite some time!
The improvements to the lighting outside the shop and near the bus stop have made the area much brighter and safer for residents.
If you notice a street light that’s not working, you can report it by calling 0300 123 5020 or online here: www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
YOUTH SUPPORT IN LEIGHTON BROOK PARK – EVERY TUESDAY! 
It was great to catch up with Peter and Lauren from the Cheshire East Youth Support team last week – they’re doing fantastic work with our young people
I’m pleased to say that youth support workers are now popping by Leighton Brook Park on Tuesday evenings!
They’ll be around between 5pm and 8pm – so if you’re in the park, come and say hello 
This kind of detached youth work is all about meeting young people where they are, offering support, advice, and a listening ear – helping them build confidence and make positive choices
It’s also a great way to strengthen links between young people and their local community, and helps create safer, more welcoming spaces for everyone
And don’t forget – Street Sports with The Wishing Well takes place every Wednesday from 5–6pm, also in Leighton Brook Park 
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
ZEBRA CROSSING – FLOWERS LANE UPDATE
I’ve been concerned for some time about the condition of the zebra crossing on Flowers Lane near Gordon Geddes Way — the road markings have significantly faded, making it harder for drivers to spot the crossing, which has understandably raised safety concerns from local residents.
Although this location isn’t within St Barnabas ward, many local residents have contacted me about it, especially those who regularly walk this route to and from Leighton Hospital. The issue was even more apparent during the recent "Walk to Work Day", when several Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust staff raised it with me directly.
I had already flagged this with Cheshire East Highways, but I’ve continued to press for action - and I’m really pleased to confirm that lining renewal works are now included in a current programme and should be completed very soon as the works move to this area.
In the meantime, temporary signage has been installed to alert drivers to the faded markings.
Thanks to everyone who got in touch — I’ll be keeping an eye on progress and will post again once the work is done.
Crewe, St Barnabas - Councillor James Pratt
DARLINGTON AVENUE - SHOPPING TROLLEY & FLYTIPPING REPORTED
A supermarket trolley has been left abandoned on Darlington Avenue, along with multiple flytipping spots around the area. 
I've already put in a request to have the trolley removed and the fly tipping cleared, but I need YOUR help!
SEE IT, REPORT IT! 
If you spot issues like this around our area, don’t hesitate to report them so we can get them sorted quickly! From lost trolleys to flytipping, we can all help make our community cleaner and safer.
Report any issues you spot online here: www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Let's work together to keep Darlington Avenue and our whole area looking great! 