Councillor Winter’s Monthly Update – January 2023
Happy New Year to one and all.
I hope you took the opportunity to attend the hearings regarding the proposed Sunnica solar site, which took place over several days at the Memorial Hall in early December.
Newmarket Town Council is supporting the objection formulated by West Suffolk Council and the Say No to Sunnica Action Group. Whilst renewable energy sources such as solar power should be welcomed, this particular scheme would appear to be excessive – the largest in the UK, stretching across 15 miles, taking up 2,500 acres and turning the rural area into an industrial landscape.
Our Winter Wonderland in the gardens proved to be popular if a little chilly. It was marvellous to see all of you who braved the cold and enjoyed some free skating or met Santa in the inflatable snow globe. You may have even seen me on the ice with some of my grandchildren – a Winter wonder indeed!
It’s been regrettable that the icy weather has meant keeping the gardens closed to the public for safety reasons on several occasions. The paths were particularly slippery and we would not expect the benches or play equipment to be in demand under these exceptional circumstances. We do understand that many of you enjoy walking through the gardens, and we do endeavour to open as much as we possibly can.
Our official opening of the newly refurbished playground has been delayed due to the weather, but will take place this month. In the meantime, I hope the new equipment with improved and extended surfacing will be well received and well used by the community. We are particularly looking forward to welcoming those children with additional needs who may benefit most from these improvements. Our ambition is to instigate some special “quiet times” to further provide for children who have particular sensory needs, along with their families.
Don’t forget that our much-loved Tea Dances have returned on the last Friday of the month at 2pm – please do check the dates on our website events calendar or telephone us. We look forward to welcoming you back.
All council meetings are open to the public. There is a section for public participation on each and every agenda where local people may address the council, or you are welcome to simply observe proceedings. Please visit www.newmarket.gov.uk for the meeting schedule and comprehensive information about the council and what we do.