Keeping in touch Chequerfield, Baghill and Willow Park – Ward Census Update

With much needed council improvements of the highway and footpaths at the Circle in Chequerfield, we need to see WDH coming up with schemes to regenerate the area and to support existing shop keepers and attract new and different shops to meet the needs of residents. The tendency to insist on a 5yr or extended lease makes it difficult for new small retail businesses to make the leap of faith to invest in Chequerfield. WDH need to consider trialing shorter licenses that will allow people to try. 

Whilst there are a number of estates in the district whose roads have been receiving much needed attention, potholes in Chequerfield and Baghill are a particular problem that needs resolution.

The team at Pomfret Woodlands Nursery have been going from strength to strength and the Childrens Centre has also been making good progress. All the more reason to ensure that the proposed bringing back into use of the former Chequerfield infant school as the district support centre needs to be managed carefully and with absolutely no corners cut.

Refurbishment and upgrading  of houses on Rookhill Road has been a real benefit for a number of existing residents, that with completion of much of the improvement work on Eastbourne gives a good result for many.

St Mary’s Centre has a number of new initiatives and one of the busiest and most effective Job Clubs in the area plus a number of schemes and courses that allow people to build their skills and qualifications. The new internet resource centre there is also proving popular with many. Call in have a coffee and find out what is on offer.

The Neighbourhood policing team have started a new series of PACT meetings at St Mary’s Centre and are also working with partners to challenge some of the unacceptable ASB and Youth nuisance behavior that occurs in some parts. As the summer draws on we will need to see useful and enjoyable activities to keep youngsters engaged.

The Air Cadets in Pontefract are recruiting 13-16yr olds on Tues 4th Feb, 7.15pm at the TA Centre on Wakefield Road. The squadron takes part in a wide range of activities, including flying, gliding, shooting, adventure training, sports, and learning about a range of aviation subjects. They also undertake first aid qualifications, communication and leadership training. The squadron is holding a recruitment night on Tuesday 4th February, starting at 7.15pm, which is open to anyone aged 13-16yrs. 

For more information call 01977 707984 or ‘like’ their facebook page. The squadron parades every Tuesday and Friday evening 7-9pm.

There is a Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme running at St Giles in Pontefract.