A Christmas message
It is my absolute honour, as the Mayor of Erewash, to share a Christmas message with everyone, in all corners of our wonderful borough. I am acutely aware that we have faced such difficult times, particularly at the height of the pandemic – times we could never have imagined. My heart goes out to all those who suffered and are still suffering from the effects of COVID-19.
But I would like to focus on the positives that this year has brought and the hope and light that Christmas can bring. The festive period is a special time of year and it is my dearest wish that this year families and friends can be together to celebrate and enjoy a safe and peaceful time.
We have seen a gradual return to being able to live our lives again and I have seen first hand the rich community spirit we have in our communities. I have met many people and attended events that have created memories I will remember forever. I would like to thank all those who are working for us throughout the festive period - the NHS, the emergency services, our armed forces and all who keep us safe and secure. My gratitude as well goes to the volunteers and carers who give their time all year round to make such a positive difference to the lives of so many of our residents. I hope you will join me at our Civic Christmas Eve Carol Service at Ilkeston Market Place at 7pm - I look forward to meeting you all.
Museum’s garden plans A project to develop historic parts of Erewash Museum’s gardens could provide a new outdoor events platform for creative arts, health and wellbeing and educational activities. Members of Erewash Borough Council’s Executive were due to meet at the end of last month and were expected to confirm their support for £67,712 of project funding from Arts Council England and a further £20,000 match funding from the Friends of Erewash Museum. The grant money covers Phase 1 of a proposed two-stage development at the Grade II listed museum. The whole project follows the discovery that a vaulted ha-ha in the grounds was collapsing and in need of extensive work.
On behalf of the officers and members of the Borough Council, I should like to wish you all a very happy Christmas and send our very best wishes to you all. Stay safe.
Councillor Donna Briggs Mayor of Erewash 2021-22
Parking present
Phase 1 - called “Erewash Valley, Past, Present and Future” - features activities to help the museum rebuild audience levels following the impact of COVID-19 and also includes the recruitment of a part-time Community Curator officer.
Erewash Borough Council will once again be providing a festive gift to local residents through its Christmas free parking scheme in all of its car parks from 18 December to 3 January inclusive.
The council also plans to submit a funding bid this month to the National Lottery Heritage Fund (HLF) to complete the development through Phase 2
The free parking will start at 10am daily and is aimed at helping traders by encouraging residents to do all their seasonal shopping at local shops and markets. The free parking is not available at Long Eaton Railway Station commuter car park.
It is hoped that work on Phase 1 and 2 could begin in the spring providing the HLF funding bid is successful and is then approved by the council. Phase 2 would continue the redevelopment of the gardens. A vaulted ha-ha is a type of sunken store that was commonly used in landscaped gardens and parks in the 18th century.
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