This is Cheshire | CommuniGate | Timperley Civic Society Feedback Timperley Civic Society Contacts Forthcoming Events Trafford Unitary Development Plan AGM Minutes Recent News Newsletter Archive 2002 - Clubs and Societies Pubs in Timperley and West Timperley Churches in Timperley Political parties in Timperley and West Timperley Schools in Timperley and West Timperley Medical Practices in Timperley and West Timperley From Newsletter, August 2010 Pharmacies in Timperley and West Timperley Children's Day Nurseries and Nursery Schools in Timperley. Newsletter December 2010 Newsletter August 2011 Dentists in Timperley and West Timperley History of Moss Park Gardens Newsletter May 2012 Contact Information for Timperley Civic Society Links for Timperley Civic Society Message Board Guestbook Event Calendar Mail Form From Newsletter May 2002 The UDP - Our input and why it is important See separate page for the Trafford Unitary Development Plan on this website, and Forthcoming Events page for dates of Inquiry. Timperley Green The Society had suggested that Aimson Road Field open space be re-named "Timperley Green". David Wilson Homes have used this name for their development right from the start and the use of the word "green" may help to safeguard the open space in the future. The Yellow Crocodile Children from Broomwood Primary School made a bright yellow "crocodile" when thay helped plant a tree to commemorate the Queen's Golden Jubilee at Larkhill on March 11th. The group walked down from the school all wearing yellow safety hats and tabards and put the final spadefuls to a purple beech tree. The tree was donated by Lanes Landscapes Ltd., the landscape contractors for Aimson Road open space area. Pictured below with the children are Councillor Julia Chapman-Barker, Chair of the Altrincham Area Board, who conducted the ceremony, members of Timperley Civic Society and employees of Trafford Council. From Newsletter, August 2002 Society Membership Welcome to a few more new members to make the number 152. Anyone who joins between now and the AGM in October will get extended membership to cover 2003 as well. So why not encourage your neighbours to take advantage of this Special Offer! Thinking of the AGM brings us to the members of the committee for next year and the next Chairman. The civic society needs your support, not just in subscriptions: or as "moral support" but also to help with the running of the society and the jobs it does on behalf of the residents of Timperley. So why not think about joining the committee for next year? Here's a brief introduction to this year's committee. So what does the Committee do? The civic society committee meets once a month, Tuesday evening at the Village Club. We look at any correspondence received. This is often in reply to letters sent out by the Secretary, Naomi Garside, to officers or councillors of Trafford. We occasionally get contacted by Trafford about something of local interest, and then also get informed by members and other residents about things that concern them, such as potholes, rubbish and planning proposals. Rarely is there a month when we do not make comments (not always objections) about planning applications. Trafford sends out a weekly list of planning applications and at present Hazel Pryor is the one who receives this, and then before the next committee meeting visits Trafford Direct in Sale to check through any that may have some effect on Timperley (more than just house extensions). Then at the next meeting of the committee these are discussed and if thought necessary, some action is taken. Rod Woodhead gives his Treasurer's report and updates us on the number of members and any special expenditure. He sees to the room bookings for both the committee meetings and general open meetings Other members represent the Civic Society by attending various meetings such as the Altrincham Consultative Group, transport users group, or the newly formed Friends of... groups. David English has spent time sorting out the Timperley Civic Society website. Do make a comment, or use it as a way of contacting the society, by sending an e-mail. Future Events For details of future meetings and visits, see Forthcoming Events page. The UDP Three of the committee members spoke at the ongoing Public Inquiry about the Trafford Unitary Development Plan (UDP). This is going to spell out Trafford's plans for the area for the next 12 years up to 2014. For further details click on the link below. Trafford UDP From Newsletter, November 2002 Report of AGM 32 members attended the AGM and after the business heard an interesting ta1k by Dave Tomlinson, Trafford's Senior Neighbourhood Warden. Mr Tomlinson fielded questions and comments about the area and some of the problems, and members felt this was a very useful session. Officers and Committee for 2002-2003 We've included a list of the Society's Officers and Committee members so that you can see what areas people come from. We welcome a new committee member, Alys Kendall. We can always use more members to represent different areas of Timperley. Sometimes we don't get to hear about very local concerns, except from very local people. Chairman Sandra Bingham Greenhill Road Vice Chairman Neil Smith Lime Grove Hon. Secretary Naomi Garside Stockport Road Hon. Treasurer Rod Woodhead Thorley Lane Minutes Secretary David English Stockport Road Marjorie Bagnall Lime Grove Brian Bingham Greenhill Road Anne Bowker Perry Road Cynthia and Len Dunning Bedford Drive Geoff Flood Shaftesbury Avenue Alys Kendall Tannery Way, off Deansgate Lane Hazel Pryor Thorley Lane Joyce Raynor Mossgrove Road Alan Shillaker Buckingham Way We've also revised the green leaflet encouraging people to join the Society. The Quiz Night was the usual success, with some really hard questions from the new quizmaster and scrumptious food by the new chairman and her team. Christmas Cards We have decided not to have new Christmas cards produced this year. We depend upon a good photograph for the card, and although we had some nice views taken of the Village Christmas lights, these would have needed to be printed in colour and would have worked out at about 60p each! We thought this would be a bit much for most people, and as we still have stocks from previous years, decided to sell these at a reduced cost. Keep your eyes open for any good historical views and your cameras ready in case we get any snow this winter. Planning Applications discussed at committee meetings included the Mobile phone mast at Heyes Grove tennis club; Beech House nursing home site on Park Road revised application, Woodlands Park Hotel and Aidan Piers garage near the station, all for apartments. We are very concerned about a planning application for new development covering numbers 71 to 77 Wellington Road, two of which are owned by the developer, but NOT the other two. We have objected to this application on several points. Trafford plans to replace the building at Park Road School and we have commented on the smaller number of pupils this will take, and the loss of trees. An application for 6 apartments on the space at the corner of Aimson Road and Stockport Road is different from an earlier one for this site and much more traditional, so we have not objected to this. Other Work by the Committee We have taken up items brought up at the AGM and since, including: the surface of the footpath across Larkhill to Mosley Road; drainage of water on roads in several locations; the state of footpath verges at the Mayfield Road/Stockport Road junction; concerns about Ridgeway Road plans for traffic calming using speed humps. Committee members have also attended several meetings about the following: the storage of waste at the old quarry area off Stockport Road (behind Timperley Aquatics); the Grove School site proposed new building for Pictor House school; Greater Altrincham Consultative Group; and Area Board meetings. Watling Gate We have expressed concern to Trafford Council about the state of Watling Gate house, Leys Road, off Park Road. It was designed and built for Charles Newton, a civil engineer, and left by him to Altrincham Council, along with many art items. For many years the Altrincham Borough librarian lived in part of the house and it has been used as a nursery school since at least 1955 (one of our committee attended!) Although it is still used as a nursery connected to Park Road primary school, there is no longer anyone living there, and there have been broken windows and other vandalism. We are concerned also about the art and museum objects which have been stored at Watling Gate, some since being removed from Altrincham Library, probably during the second war, and possibly other items moved there when the old library was demolished. The Buildings Conservation Officer at Trafford has told us that he is keeping a watching brief on this, and at the October Area Board meeting it was stated that the artefacts were to be put in Altrincham Town Hall 'pro tem'. From Newsletter, February 2003 Tree Planting Winter is tree planting time and we have seen three new trees put in at Larkhill. Two young limes trees replace the ones we lost next to the car park and a new red flower hawthorn in a gap along the Thorley Lane frontage. Residents in Thorley Lane and a sum from the Civic Society have paid for the trees and Trafford did the planting. (Locals may have to add some buckets of water if we get a very dry spell.) If you know of anywhere that would benefit from some new trees, then please let the Civic Society know. Heavens Above! The last open meeting on 20th November was a fascinating introduction to what planets and stars can be seen in the night sky by Don Utton from Altrincham & District Astonomical Society. For once there were more men present at the meeting! Following on from this meeting, we have arranged a visit to the society’s observatory. Book early as there is limited space, and of course only one person at a time can look through the large telescope. There will be a display, and if you have good binoculars you could bring those. We just hope for a clear evening. (See Forthcoming Events page.) Footpaths The Altrincham Area Board has received two petitions for closure of public footpaths in Timperley. One applies to the "Boggart" footpath from Heyes Lane to Grange Road. The council will check on the usage of the path. Damage and disturbance issues will be referred to the police and crime reduction partnership. The other is for the path between Wood Lane and Seymour Grove at the side of the Hare & Hounds. Residents complain of litter and youths hanging around. At present these are not grounds for closing a path and the council will try other means to relieve the problem. There will be consultation with neighbours and then both these will come back to a future Area Board meeting. Planning and Developments The society has checked out and commented to Trafford about several recent planning applications: 148 Bloomsbury Lane and garden fronting to Stockport Road next to Quarry Bank terrace. This is for a block of flats fronting Stockport Road, with car parking and access from Bloomsbury Lane. Ridgeway Road opposite the church, application to improve car parking for the nursery at the rear of Barker's the florists. Hedge on Ridgeway Road to be replaced by a 2 metre high wall with metal railings on top, with lighting. 71- 77 Wellington Road. A revised application was notified to the secretary, with a reduced number of 24 apartments instead of 29 and some other changes. We still think this is over-development of the site. Park Road, former Quick's site -The application to build 103 flats on the land at the end of Attenbury Lane has been refused by Trafford. No new application yet. Stockport Road -People have asked what is happening to the land next to the railway bridge. Our information is that the land was sold separately to the house. No planning application has been put in, as yet. Police Drop-in The police have organised drop-in sessions at the Larkhill Centre for anyone to call in and have a private chat with one of the local officers. These will be once a month Monday afternoons, usually from about 2pm- 4pm, in the committee room, the same time that the Over Sixties group meet in the main hall. Dates will be in the noticeboard at Larkhill and the usual shops. Altrincham Area Board Budget The Area Board has money available for local projects which will benefit the community (£19,000 left in January 2003.) If you have any ideas, please tell us, so that we could put in a bid . Walks As the weather improves, we will have a couple of walks within Timperley. There are lots of footpaths and hidden corners of Timperley that many people do not see, so look out for dates, and come exploring. From Newsletter, May 2003 Dear Member We're looking for people this time. Don't worry, it may not be you, unless you went to Park Road Primary School, or know a good handyman. Mind you, we still need more members, and perhaps ,a few more on the committee. Don't forget the Society is for the WHOLE of Timperley. We could do with a wider spread of members and committee people from across Timperley, so we can know what is going on and what local residents think about developments or problems. Handyperson wanted We are looking for anyone who could help with refurbishing the Society noticeboard in the village. If you know anyone who could help please contact: Sandra or Brian Bingham on 980 4160 Visits The visit to the Observatory of the Astronomical Society was unfortunately wrongly timed with a rainy evening, but members were treated to slides and a demonstration of the equipment there. The trip to Manchester City Art Gallery was well supported and members enjoyed an excellent guided tour. Any suggestions for more visits? Timperley Green Trafford have agreed that the recreational land on Aimson Road should be called Timperley Green. The new railings there are to stop youngsters running across Shaftesbury Avenue to the Green, without using the pedestrian lights. More Tree Planting Larkhill has had more trees planted. Local residents and the Larkhill Centre contributed to the cost, and trees have been planted along the south end of the building, and a group of shrubs beside the footpath. We have also put two members in touch with the Trafford scheme for adopting a tree, one to replace an ornamental street tree on South Drive. WALKS -May is 'Walk in the Woods' month Try this walk: From Brooklands roundabout along Brooks's Drive. Just over the bridge, on the right, go through gate/stile into woodland area along Fairywell Brook (see below). Back onto Brooks's Drive continue until you cross Ridgeway Road. Two fields along take footpath on the left over stile. At Fairywell Wood take path over stile to left through the wood. Don't cross the brook. Follow side of brook, eventually you will come onto Kentmere Road, follow this to the left and back onto Brooks's Drive. Roughly three miles. May be a bit muddy. Parking and Litter As usual the committee has been concerned about several matters including parking problems on Grove Lane and in the village, footpaths and litter. Planning and Developments There are more major developments in the pipeline, the largest being new housing on land at Kentmere Road, the open land near to the railway bridge on Shaftesbury Avenue. We have commented on the number of houses, the amount of traffic, and the environmental effect on Fairywell Brook. It is proposed to move the course of the Brook to create wetland areas, in a plan to deal with flooding problems, but this will involve cutting down the trees and shrubs that were planted in the job creation scheme in the 1980s! We have commented on plans for houses on Henson Grove, and more plans for Beech House nursing home on Park Road; also, on Wellington Road, two separate planning applications have been made for Nos 71/73 and for No.77. Park Road -Forest City Signs & Italia Business Park (former Quick's site) -There is a new application for this site for 108 apartments in 5 blocks, some of which will be 4 storeys high, ranged around the outside of the site with a 'courtyard' in the middle. There will be 133 parking spaces, with one vehicle entrance and exit, directly onto Park Road. The developers have provided a traffic report which said that sometimes the queue of traffic from the lights on Manchester Road, backs up even as far as the site! (Talk about under-statement.) As well as commenting on this, a letter has been sent separately to Trafford about the effect on traffic congestion of the several developments on Park Road. Stockport Road -A planning application has been put in for the land next to the last house before the railway bridge - for a 3 storey development of 2 townhouses and 3 apartments, with 8 parking spaces. We've not yet looked at these plans, so can't comment. If you are interested in any Planning Applications, they are listed on the Trafford website along with the reference number you need if you want to inspect the plans. Just go along to the temporary Sale Library, near the police station, and ask to look. You can take notes, but not photocopies. Calling all Park Road Schoolers -As the old school building on Frieston Road will be demolished when the new one is ready, there is a re-union planned for July this year. Jenny Farragher of the PTA would like to hear from anyone with photos or memorabilia of the school, contact her on 718 8183. (I can offer one of me in mid-flight of a long jump at sports day!) From Newsletter, September 2003 Dear Member It's that time of the year again. Welcome back after the summer holidays and almost straight away we have the Annual General Meeting of the Civic Society on 1st October. We are having a very good speaker (details over the page) so please do come -the actual AGM business does not take long. Enclosed are the Agenda and Minutes of the 2002 AGM. Insurance. In years past the society has taken out Public Liability insurance. Over a third of the membership subscription is taken up in the cost of this. Under current legislation, the buildings we hire have insurance to cover any activities that take place there. At the Country Fair stallholders pay towards the insurance for the event, and any visits, such as to Manchester Art Gallery, are covered by the insurance for that building. In view of this the committee feels that the members should have a say in whether the society continues to buy additional public liability insurance. This will be decided at the AGM. Committee Membership If anyone is considering joining the committee, we are very friendly, don't bite, meetings are interesting and quite enjoyable, and we believe actually do some good. We have built good relations with certain departments of Trafford council, who now take notice of our suggestions. Renewal of Subscriptions Subscriptions are due from 1st September and your renewal form is enclosed, along with a few invitations to join the society, which we suggest you might pass to a neighbour or friend whom you think would like to join and support us in 'caring for Timperley'. Timperley Country Fair is on Saturday 20th September. The society will be having the usual stall, and we would like some help from members who could spare a bit of time on the day, a) to help with setting up at about 9. 00 am and then b) during the day. We shall have a display about the Civic Society and will be selling Christmas Cards. If you could spare some time please phone Sandra Bingham on 980 4160. Christmas/Greetings Cards (on no, not already!) This year we are having two designs taken from line drawings specially commissioned for the Civic Society and done by a local resident and art teacher Margaret Pinn. These are of the Village Club and the comer of Bloomsbury Lane with the Quarry Bank. There are some cards left from previous years, in case you missed them. Check out the stall at the Country Fair or the Open Meetings. Flower beds in Timperley Flowers at the front and side of Paul House have been splendid this year. We don't often see him at work, but this is all due to the hard work of David Bendell (who despite reports in Cheshire Life is still alive and kicking!) On Larkhill, the new flower beds have looked nice all summer, although some of the new trees have succumbed. Those funded by the Civic Society have survived, but the ones paid for by Larkhill Centre will be replaced. The flowers at Moss Lane comer and along Shaftesbury Avenue have also been colourful. Planning and Developments Kentmere Road -This was discussed at the Trafford Planning meeting in June. We had asked to speak at the meeting, where you get three minutes to state a case for or against a planning application. Hazel Pryor spoke for the Civic Society against certain aspects of the plans for housing at Kentmere Road (on the old nursery and 'Albert Booth's pony field') specifically the increased number of units, lack of parking space and the proposal to move the line of Fairywell Brook. However, the plans were passed - no joy there. Davenport Green 'Rural Park' -Plans have been available for consultation about the landscaping for the so-called 'Rural Park' to be developed on land between Roaring Gate Lane, Ash Lane and Clay Lane, Hale. The original plans showed a lake along the area of the brook, but this is not in the latest proposals. This will come up at the Area Board Meeting on 2nd September, so we will wait to see what is decided. (Website www.davenportgreen.com) We have repeatedly drawn the attention of Trafford to the effect on traffic of proposed housing developments on Park Road. Building has started on the Beech House site; plans have been submitted for 'Park Gate' at the corner of Frieston Road; but at least the latest application has been refused for the adjoining sites of Forest City Signs and the old Quick's car dealers showrooms and garage on the corner of Attenbury's Lane. South Trafford Archaeology Group The Civic Society is supporting STAG in their application for a Local Heritage Initiative grant for the Timperley Old Hall moated site. The plan is for a heritage park with an interpretation trail around the site and a further dig on the south side of the moat. New Local Book -'Altrincham Gardeners' Society: a hundred years of professional gardeners' by Hazel Pryor and John Hitchens, looks at all the gardeners who worked for the big houses in Altrincham, Bowdon, Dunham Massey and Hale - and some from Timperley. John includes his memories of days as an apprentice at Dunham Massey. The book launch will be on Sunday 5th October at Larkhill Centre from 2pm to 5pm. Come along and meet the authors, have a chat over a cup of tea, and buy your copy! Price is £7.00, plus £2.50 p&p. Copies will be in local shops or phone Hazel on 980 5464. From Newsletter, January 2004 Welcome back after the Christmas holidays. We have an interesting programme for spring, including a visit to Crosby's Nurseries on Wood Lane, restricted numbers so please book using the form. Patter of not-so-tiny feet, OR Spot the deliberate mistake The tap dancing class is a bit of a problem; We didn't know when booking the room that a new dance class had started in the room above on Wednesday evenings; So, for the February Open Meeting we have CHANGED THE DATE; It is not Wednesday (or even Saturday!) the 18th, but now TUESDAY 24th FEBRUARY; Please do support the Open Meetings. We had disappointing numbers attending for an excellent slide show at the AGM, and a fascinating talk in November (see below). Please try to join us on Tuesday 24th February to hear Keith Warrender's talk entitled "Whispers from The Willows" - a history of the house on Moss Lane, Timperley - should be of interest to all Members. Open Meeting 12th November 2003 'Visit to Romania' - Sheila Andrews spoke with great enthusiasm of her visit to Romania, organized by Care Trust Romania (CTR), a non-profit organization. This was a talk with a difference for sure; Sheila spoke from the heart and warmed us all; CTR work mainly in poor village areas, amongst the sick and elderly - where conditions are considered to be below human standards. Sheila from Stockport gives her time and energies freely. She related her experiences in several villages where she assisted the CTR team in bulk purchasing of basic food items (e.g. rice) - weighing it out into family portions and making up 'food parcels' for distribution. Often this necessitated a trek up a mountain side. That reminds me of one of Sheila's amusing mountainous adventures! Upon delivering one such food parcel to a sick lady living a frugal life style, the lady immediately foraged in the parcel and declared 'no illuminators'; It was true - the 'candles' had been forgotten and without further ado she was donning coat and two walking sticks to trek down the mountain. One of the CTR team came to her rescue, turned on his heels back to base to collect the necessary 'illuminators'. Great story - and candles will never be the same for me ! . This open meeting proved to be very poignant and enlightening. I feel sure many of the audience wanted to board a Romanian bound plane there and then in order to follow in Sheila's footsteps. We can thank Sheila for her contribution to CTR in this field and for bringing her experiences to us. It was an honour and a pleasure to meet this remarkable lady. At Sheila's request, in lieu of a fee, TCS made a donation to Care Trust Romania. To learn more of CTR log on to www.caretrust.ro I'm sorry if you missed this meeting for whatever reason - you would have been suitably entertained, enlightened and inspired - as I'm sure those Members who attended will confirm. Sandra Bingham Timperley has very few Listed Buildings: one, the Old Hall Hotel, has a planning application in for alterations since it was taken over by Hydes; another is Watling Gate on Leys Road, off Park Road near the station. It was the home of Col. Charles Newton, who bequeathed it to Altrincham Council in the 1930s, along with a large collection of artworks, books, and land adjacent. The house has been used as a nursery school for about 50 years. A flat there, home for many years to the Altrincham Borough librarian, is now unoccupied and the house is so vandalised that the nursery school has moved out. This is a Listed Building owned by Trafford, and we have written expressing our concern. ** New book - by Peter Scott 'Timperley Boy' - his memories of Gerrard Avenue area - available from Constable's newsagents, corner of Heyes Lane. Greetings from Timperley The cards we produced for Christmas have sold well. There are still a few left showing the Village Club, and don't forget they just say Greetings from Timperley. So if you would like any to use throughout the year, please contact Hazel Pryor, who has them in a box in her hall. (6 for £1.50). The Quarry / Montessori School - Proposed development on hidden site. The Montessori School on Stockport Road (with the painted stone wall) has closed and a planning application has been put in for this to be demolished to provide an access road through to the land at the back which was the sandstone quarry, entrance beside Timperley Aquatics. This is for outline planning for 24 dwellings. No details yet as to what they will look like. I bet many people in Timperley do not know the site is there. (History note: in the 1600s the Holt family were masons in Timperley, at 'the stone delph'.) Friends of Quarry Bank Gardens - A group has been set up by local residents to re-instate gardens at the comers of Marsland Avenue and Clifford Drive. When the council houses were built, the corner plots were left as garden areas. Years ago they were tarmac'ed over by the council, and neighbours are planning to turn them back to gardens. They await a decision on a grant from Trafford. The Civic Society has supported the Friends with a donation. Development sites - Work has started on the land between Shaftesbury Avenue and Kentmere Road, which will include the diversion of Fairywell Brook. The new buildings at Beech House and Aidan Piers Garage on Park Road are shooting up, as are the sites on Wellington Road. We are concerned about the construction of the flats at the Woodlands Hotel site, and are querying fire safety with Trafford and the Fire Service - still in progress. The new houses off Henson Grove are advertised in the papers as 'Willow Bank', a bit confusing, as 'Willow Bank' already exists in Timperley! Carrfield Avenue, Broomwood - Trafford have Outline plansfor new housing, to replace the f1ats which have been demolished on Carrfield Ave, and on a vacant plot at the corner of Dee Avenue. The Civic Society committee has sent answers to a questionnaire from Trafford on a Licensing Policy for premises serving alcohol. Trafford also wanted the society to get involved with 2004' s Trafford in Bloom, to the extent of getting volunteers to join in doing the work and 'looking after' Timperley. There were two problems with this: one is just what Trafford considers to be the boundaries of Timperley and the other is getting enough people to turn out and do the work. Still waiting for a response from Trafford. Timperley Country Fair celebrates 20 years in September. www.timperleycountryfair.org.uk From Newsletter, April 2004 Open Meetings Wow! Full house at the last open meeting. Another good one coming up. Don't forget, because of the Tap Dancing group, we have changed the day for the next Open Meeting to TUESDAY. Welcome to the new members who have joined following two recent events, including a 'double act' at the March Area Board meeting (more later). 'Whispers from The Willows' - At the last open meeting we had a super talk with slides from Keith Warrender about his house on Moss Lane, and the families connected with it. We had a lot of visitors including some of Keith's neighbours and it was our best turn out for a long time. Timperley Old Hall - Our next open meeting on TUESDAY 25th May will be about Timperley Hall, its history and archaeology, with Pat Faulkner, secretary of South Trafford Archaeological Group (STAG). For those who don't know, STAG have worked on the old moated site at the back of the Old Hall Hotel for many years. About 35 members enjoyed the visit to Crosby's Nurseries on Wood Lane. We were treated to a guided tour around the glasshouses by Brian Crosby and his son Nigel and shown the machines transplanting three seedlings at a time, then enjoyed tea and biscuits while Brian demonstrated making up a hanging basket. Crosby's supply garden centres, local authorities and landscape gardening firms with thousands of bedding plants, but you can still go and stock up for spring planting. Presentation about the Society If you missed the March Area Board meeting, you missed a treat - Naomi and Hazel doing a double act in a presentation about the Society. We wanted to make sure it was not boring, even if people only say 'Remember those two charlies from Timperley Civic Society? Anyway it seems to have succeeded as a few more people have joined. Altrincham in Bloom - This year instead of Trafford in Bloom, smaller areas are entering the competition. The Altrincham entry includes Timperley, and several members of the committee have been involved in planning the route that the judges will drive. They have 3 hours, so should be able to include several Timperley sites, such as Brooks's Drive and Broom Wood, the site for Quarry Bank Gardens and King George's Pool. Planning and Developments UDP - Most of the points we raised (see separate page on this Web site) have been included in the revised version of the Unitary Development Plan - a success for the members of the UDP group - Brian Bingham, Len Dunning, David English and Rod Woodhead. Our thanks to them for the time and effort they have put in. Greetings from Timperley The cards showing the Village Club are still available and don't forget they just say Greetings from Timperley. So if you would like any to use throughout the year, please contact Hazel Pryor, who has them in a box in her hall. (6 for £1.50) Canal Road Parking - One of the committee mentioned the obstruction caused by people parking on the slope of Canal Road opposite the Station. Trafford will look into this. Planning Applications Manchester Road/Claremont Tennis Club - A plan for 17 apartments on the vacant land between Claremont Drive and the petrol station, 3 and 4 storeys, with parking and open space at the rear of the filling station, and a new pavilion for the tennis club. There is a planning application to replace the Mobile phone mast in the village - it's not tall enough! Ha! What is a dormer bungalow? According to some recent applications it has four bedrooms and two bathrooms in the roof space - now that's a big loft conversion. Montessori School/ Quarry site - There is a revised application for this site, still for 24 dwellings. At the quarry site, the members of the Archaeology Group have done a survey of the small industrial building from the late 19th century that was the workshop for Marston's the joiners and undertakers. Altrincham Area Board - £450 has been granted for landscaping the open space at the top of Mayfield Road (to stop footballs going onto the road). Trafford issues a list of construction projects planned/in progress and included in the March 2004 list are: New road junction design at Park Road/Manchester Road; and a new pavilion/clubhouse at Timperley Recreation Ground on Park Road. There was a petition about traffic on Wellfield Lane, with the suggestion that it should be made one-way. However, Trafford think that recent traffic calming (40mph signs) should work, and talk of re-designing the bridge over the brook. Tidbits The boundaries of the Parish of Timperley are being changed to exclude the area near the Wellgreen in Hale. These relate to the ecclesiastical district and are not related to the local government area, either modern or ancient. We've said goodbye to the old building at Park Road Primary School. The new one and the nursery are very modern. Check it out from Frieston Road or Leys Road, and while you are there have a walk through Newton Park and along the brook. Please note revised EMAIL ADDRESS. You can now only send us an email via the website. Newsletter Editor Hazel Pryor Tel: 980 5464 From Newsletter, September 2004 Welcome to the new season. Let's hope we can continue the work done by the Civic Society. Annual General Meeting Included with the newsletter is the notice of the Annual General Meeting of the Society on 6th October . This is very important. We need your help if the Society is to survive (and thrive). Specifically we need people to join with the committee and stand as officers. Our Chairman, Sandra Bingham and the Treasurer, Rod Woodhead both wish to retire from office this year. Sandra became chairman fairly reluctantly and now wishes to hand over to someone else. Rod's involvement with the Larkhill Centre means that he has less time to give to the job of Treasurer/Membership secretary. The existing committee members are already committed to other tasks both inside and outside the society and don't wish to take on another role. Note that Timperley Civic Society cannot continue without these officers. Could you help? The committee will help and support anyone interested in becoming chairman, vice-chairman, treasurer or membership secretary. Altrincham in Bloom - Up to now we have not had the results of the 'In Bloom' judges, so don't know how Altrincham (including Timperley) got on. There has certainly been a lovely show of flowers recently in the council plantings. We must especially thank Mary Eastwood for her work in planting up and looking after the circle on Timperley Green. Timperley Country Fair - Wellies at the ready, we had a good day at the fair. The photo quiz kept everyone in a puzzle and nobody got them all right. Two winners got 23 out of 24 correct - Edwina Winter and Mary Gerrard who each win a disposable camera. If you want another look and to see the answers, the photos will be on display at the AGM. (Thanks to member Heather Turner for suggesting it.) New Noticeboard - I hope you have seen our new board on the comer of Paul House in the Village. This time it has been paid for by Trafford under the old Altrincham Area Board. Area Board - The first meeting of the new Altrincham Area Board is on 28 September at Altrincham Boys' Grammar School. There is not the same public open forum as before, but people can go at 6.45pm and present details of any complaints or concerns, which will be logged and dealt with later. Then the meeting starts at 7.00pm. Christmas Cards - NOT! We decided not to produce new cards this year. There are still some remaining from the last 2/3 years and we thought it best to clear these stocks. Keep your cameras ready in case we get any snow this year and your eyes peeled for any really good old photos we could use in future. Timperley Old Hall- The talk by Pat Faulkner brought out a good attendance of 41 people who enjoyed a thoroughly researched and interesting slide show. A new book edited by Pat will be published in November. "Tymperleie: the history and archaeology of Timperley Old Hall" will cost £12.50 and is published by South Trafford Archaeology Group. (If you fancy having a go at digging, STAG meets on Sundays at l0am at the rear of the Old Hall Hotel, Stockport Road) Planning and Developments A third plan for housing in the Old Quarry site off Stockport Road goes to the Planning Committee for a decision next week. A previous plan was refused on the grounds that the quota of new housing had been reached. Maybe a new ruling party will think differently. Rotalac site - Canal Road/Deansgate Lane - plans for a big development on the site of Rotalac, with 12 small business units fronting to Deansgate Lane with total of 141 apartments above and also in three other blocks running west along the canal bank. 48 units will be 'affordable housing'. The site is bounded by Deansgate Lane, the canal and the old railway embankment and the plan includes enhancement of the canal bank and of Timperley Brook which goes through the site. We have commented about the traffic that this will add to Canal Road/Park Road and not just Deansgate Lane, but the route through Brook Lane/Wellington Road etc. Mail boxes. - Where there is a large postal delivery route, bags can be too heavy to carry for the whole round, so there are plans to put up what are called 'pouch boxes' for storage of mail before delivery. Watch out for one near you. Future Events Please let us know if you have any suggestions for future talks or visits. Please note revised EMAIL ADDRESS. You can now only send us an email via the website. From Newsletter, December 2004 Christmas greetings and wishing you a peaceful New Year. New Chairman and Treasurer Following our AGM, Geoff Flood has become our new Chairman, and Roy Griffiths has taken over from Rod Woodhead, who has served 5 years as Treasurer. We also welcome Dorothy Pennington, who has joined the committee, and say goodbye to Alys Kendal. Sadly we will miss Anne Bowker for her local knowledge and involvement and her work for Timperley. Timperley 'in Bloom' Spotted in the village - David Bendell and Peter Botting pruning the roses and clearing and replanting the flower beds in front of Paul House. The Friends of Brooks's Drive also recently held a successful tidy-up and planting, followed by a walk. Any volunteers are welcome (no experience needed). Look out for the next date. Watling Gate Naomi Garside and Hazel Pryor attended a meeting about Watling Gate and Newton Park. There was a lot of local interest about the park and concern over the state of Watling Gate house, with many suggestions about future use of the building and support for a 'Friends of...' group. Crosby's Nurseries - Lots of members and some visitors turned out for a fascinating insight into the work of Crosby's nurseries. Brian detailed his involvement with the massed bedding plants used for displays seen from the air at Ringway Airport and prize-winning gardens at the RHS Tatton Show. Timperley Hall Book - Keep your eyes open for the new book by Pat Faulkner of South Trafford Archaeology Group, about the history of Timperley Hall and the dig at the moated site - out any time now. Trafford Road-Rail Interchange There has been concern expressed about the effect which the planned road-rail Freight Interchange at Carrington would have on Timperley. Yes, it would be good to get more freight traffic off the roads and on to railways, and 5000 jobs will be created, but... There are three main concerns: loss of green belt land in the Carrington area (at least one square mile to start with); disruption and noise as a result of reopening the railway line from Skelton Junction northwest to Glazebrook, (the lines through Timperley which have been quiet for many years - since Beeching!); increased road traffic caused by deliveries to and from the Interchange (and people who will work there?). Plans include laying down new welded rail track, without joints, and the demolition and rebuilding of one of the bridges. Both rail and road traffic would have an impact on Timperley. We have stated our opposition along those lines. Comments had to be in by mid-November, so we will wait to see what happens next. Planning and Developments The number of planning applications for rebuilding developments has certainly fallen since Trafford announced it had reached its quota for new houses. What a pity it came too late to prevent so many developments on Park Road and Wellington Road. (Gridlock here we come!) Again the plan for housing at the old Ouarry site off Stockport Road has been refused by the Planning Committee. Now there is another application to demolish the old Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, and build a three and a half storey block of 9 flats with underground parking, opposite the Quarry site. A similar one was put in a few years ago and nothing happened. (Question: What used to be on the chapel roof? See answer below). Roads We have written to the council about the state of the potholes in Stockport Road, Dobinett's Lane and on the cycle track along Shaftesbury Ave. Trafford had already identified the Stockport Road stretch, and lo! work has started on patching up the worst areas. The other two have also been noted, but will have to wait a while. Let us know about any more really bad potholes. Wood Lane Post Office We wrote to Royal Mail about the proposed closure of Wood Lane PO and put the case for elderly residents, who will have to use either the Village or Broomwood Post Offices. Royal Mail say they aim to have 95% of people within 1 mile of a branch PO. They will decide after the consultation ends in January. War Memories As next year is a special one - 60 years since the end of the Second WorId War there is the opportunity to get a Lottery grant for a special project or event to celebrate and record the work of all the people who were part of non-combatant organisations such as land army, ARP wardens, NFS, home guard, ATS, etc. Do you know people who were involved, could you talk to them and record their memories, would you help to organise the project? The final outcome might be a reunion, an exhibition, a booklet and the memories recorded for future generations. If anyone is interested in getting involved in organising such a project we have until March to apply for the grant. Don't leave this, thinking that the committee members will do it. We need YOU! (Answer to Question above: Air Raid Siren) From Newsletter, March 2005 Dear Member Apologies for the slightly late appearance of this newsletter. Blame the current virus (human not comuter)! Local Walks Well, spring is supposed to have started! So why not get out into Timperley and take a walk around some of our parks and countryside areas. Why not head off across the golf course from near the Hare & Hounds on Wood Lane and follow the brook to the right to have a look at King George's Pool. Maybe we will have the Great Crested Grebes there again. Or start at Brooklands roundabout and take a trip along Brooks's Drive to inspect the improvements and new wildflower planting. Or you could start from Timperley Station and head along Frieston Road to have a look at Watling Gate and Newton Park. They have a new Friends group now and we look forward to a better future for the park and the house. PC Roscoe's Thrilling Tales - For those of you who didn't manage to get to the talk on 'Policing in the Community'- you missed an exciting account of the capture of four bank robbers. Two of them caught (in a culvert under the canal) because they couldn't keep their mouths shut! So if you see a policeman on a mountain bike, give him a cheer, it will be PC Roscoe the community officer for Timperley area. This month we look forward to another talk by Keith Warrender. How well do you know the Bollin Valley? Come to Keith's talk and find out and see his (as usual) super photos. Please note this talk is at Larkhill Centre. Timperley Hall - The new book by Pat Faulkner about the history of Timperley Hall and the archaeological dig at the moated site is now available (priced £12). It includes the background history of the medieval estates in Timperley and details of the dig. Get your copy from the newsagents in Timperley Village. (I was going to call it Prior's, but the business has changed hands and is now called Premier News.) Trafford Road-Rail Interchange There has been much in the press about the proposed interchange at Carrington, and the effect it will have both in eating up green belt land and re-opening local railway lines to freight traffic. We await any news of a public inquiry. Planning and Developments Big changes are on the way for Stockport Road between Bloomsbury Lane and Grove Lane, with the granting of planning permission for the housing development at the Old Quarry, and at the old Wesleyan Methodist Chapel. The plan for the church site is for a block of 9 flats with underground parking, right opposite to No. 198 which will be the entrance road to the quarry site. Roads, Footpaths & Pavements - The next Altrincham Area Board on 22nd March will have a brief presentation about this topic and we hope to have a representative there. Please note revised EMAIL ADDRESS.; You can now only send us email via the website. Timperley Civic Society website http://www.communigate.co.uk/chesh/timperleycivicsociety From Newsletter, September 2005 Dear Member Welcome back. It's AGM time again on Weds 5th October. Time to review the work done by the Civic Society and look forward to the next 12 months, and enjoy a talk from the RSPB. And don't forget to bring a crisp £5 note - to pay your subs! And have you thought about joining the committee? It's not too arduous a job. We meet once a month on Tuesday evenings to discuss any changes that may affect Timperley. Your opinions and thoughts would be very welcome. The Minutes of last year's AGM will be put on the society's website. Altrincham in Bloom - Our chairman Geoff Flood went round with the inspectors, and all were impressed by the spectacular results achieved in a short time by the Friends of Quarry Bank Gardens. Personal effort from a few people also goes into the floral displays in Timperley. Roy Jackson and his wife and David Bendell have worked on flowerbeds in the village, with Brian Crosby supplying plants. Mary Eastwood again has planted and looked after the circular bed on Timperley Green, along with her work with the Friends of Brooks's Drive, and looking after the Community Orchard at Beech Avenue allotments - still young but now showing fruit. All the 'Friends of groups work hard to make Timperley a nicer place to live in. Planning and Developments Watling Gate house has been advertised for sale by Trafford. Expressions of interest had to be sent in by 26th August. So there will be some changes there. The old Quarry site off Stockport Road has now been cleared as has the old Wesleyan chapel and we await the start of building on both sites. We've looked at several planning applications, but nothing major at present. Timperley Brass Band has been in touch for ideas about a logo for the re-formed band. Their concert on 22nd October will bring us musicians from some of the north's famous bands. Watch out for posters. Explore and keep fit - Timperley Trekkers is part of the Healthy Living Project. You can join a walk on 1st or 3rd Wednesdays, meeting at Broomwood Youth Centre on Mainwood Road at 10.15am. Walks are for about 1 hour. Christmas Cards - YES we have new cards this year featuring a scene on Stockport Road from about 1900. Can you recognise where it is? Buy yours at the AGM and Open Meetings, or from Rook's shop. Oh Pooh! - Timperley Village Toilets - were closed without notice or consultation by Trafford and the fittings removed before the Civic Society knew about it. The consequence, as you will have seen in the Messenger, was the cancelling of the Timperley Country Fair. Pat Williams spoke eloquently against the closure of the Thorley Lane Toilets at the Altrincham Area Board and presented an 800 signature petition. Members of the Civic Society supported her and added to her comments about the need for this convenience in the Village. Members 'enjoyed' the visit to Stockport Air-Raid Shelters, and the talk by George Cogswell about Trafford war memorials. His talk covered more than just the memorials. George has been compiling a database of all people killed in the wars who came from the area and are commemorated in Trafford or elsewhere. These include a pilot who I crashed in Green Lane in 1942 while delivering a plane. Does anyone remember it? Hazel Pryor From Newsletter, March 2006 Old Pear Tree on Brook Avenue - see "Old Tree Gone" below Dear Member Welcome back. Sorry it's been such a long time since the last letter. There's a lot to catch up with. Sorry about the AGM, I got the speaker wrong, so look out for the RSPB in October this year. Dorothy Pennington has retired from the committee and we thank her for her involvement. We welcome a new committee member Mark Wilkinson. Mark has been involved with Quarry Bank Gardens, and now is also the treasurer for Altrincham in Bloom. This is now to be constituted as a voluntary group separate from Trafford Council and the council has withdrawn funding. The group is currently planning for this year's judging route. They need more “front garden” entries, so get busy with the trowels and get an entry form. Well Done Congratulations to Chris McKenzie on the award of an MBE for services to the police and to Pat Williams for an award from Trafford for her work with voluntary groups. Changes We've all seen it now - the new posh paving in the village. Apart from the dodging mud and barriers, it all should look better when finished. And work has finally started on the site of the old Wesleyan Chapel - there is now a bigger hole in the ground (if you're quick you might still see the sand and clay that's been exposed on the Grove Lane side of the site). “The Assembly” on the site of the old quarry in Stockport Road is well under way and “Dingle Lodge” by the railway bridge is now complete. Car Torque has moved to Moss Lane bridge (Think they were one of the original occupiers of Paul House?) Flower Craft Cottage has closed after 18 years, but we have a new flower shop next to Timperley Aquatics. Further afield - Christ Church Hall on Thorley Lane is changing hands but the building will remain as a religious meeting place. The Toilets We sent letters to the local councillors and have received replies from two out of three. Ray Bowker has supported the re-opening of the toilets with a letter to the council. Cnclr Bulman was sympathetic, but felt he couldn't support us. Neighbourhood consultations Trafford have drawn up a neighbourhood profile for each ward, and want to know what our priorities are. Meetings are planned before the final date in July, see Forthcoming Events page. They will also have a stand at Beech Fields on July 1st for Altrincham Festival. Railway Line The Freight terminal at Carrington may have been removed from the scene, but there are plans by Network Rail to start running freight trains again between Shell and Skelton junction. Plans are for two trains a day each way starting from November. (I remember when I was little hearing the freights go by on the Stockport line, then for a long time we had no trains, then after the Metro opened we had the Altrincham to Stockport trains running again.) Watling Gate The Friends of Watling Gate and Newton Park and the council held a meeting to consider the plans to sell Watling Gate house and some of the park land. The prospective purchaser plans to have a centre to provide classes in yoga, pilates etc, with someone living on the premises. The park land would be for security and to provide parking for clients in front of the house off Leys Road. We have written to the council expressing various concerns, that conditions should be placed on it. Consultation period is expected to be until late March. Planning Applications on-line We can now check the planning applications via the internet on the Trafford website. If you don't know the application number you have to search all the wards that include Timperley, Broadheath, Hale Barns, Timperley and Village. Once you've found an application you can see the plans and other paperwork. (If you want detailed instructions how to find them phone 980 5464.) Recent Planning Applications checked and commented on: More big changes in Altrincham with plans for the single-storey shops on Railway Street to be replaced by 4-5 storey buildings - a real change to the character of that part of the town. Thorley Lane Farm (opposite World of Water) - telecoms mast along the hedge line away from the road - at least it's away from houses. We commented on traffic concerns about the proposal for a day nursery on Ridgeway Road, which has now opened. Wonder if it has made any difference. Report back on Open Meetings: The talk about Macmillan nurses was very interesting, but a shame so few people attended. A change for our December meeting when we had punch and mince pies for refreshments, after the talk by Dr Emstbrunner from the Ramblers Association. He brought up many useful points about Footpaths and Rights of Way and how to protect them. We must make sure all our local footpaths are included on the definitive map for Trafford. In February we enjoyed Chris Makepeace's Tour round Manchester. We only got about a quarter of the distance planned, as Chris had so much to tell about each location. (Only one person asked where in Manchester we had to meet, not realising it was a visual tour.) Wilf Swann We have just heard the sad news of the death of Wilf Swann. He was the organist at the Methodist Church and lived on Stockport Road. Wilf was one of our long standing members, and despite having moved to Lincolnshire, continued with his subscription and kept in touch. Old Tree Gone By now we have probably lost one of Timperley's old relics - the pear tree outside Lathom Hall, the scout hut on Brook Avenue (see photograph above). It was a reminder of the farm which used to stand there. Work is being done by United Utilities to prevent foul water from getting into Timperley Brook during heavy rain. Unfortunately, they need to put a pipe in, just under the tree. Less smell but also less blossom. Well, well! An historical feature of Timperley came to light when work started on the extension to the newsagents next to the NatWest bank in Stockport Road. The builders uncovered an 'ole in the back yard, that kept filling with water. Found to be about 4 feet deep, it has now been filled in, but the well probably supplied Fir Tree Farm in the days before mains water. Trafford Silver Surfers The Libraries are running sessions for older people to contribute to a website for people who live and work in Trafford. Sign up for free at www.traffordsilversurfers.org and see what others have written, or add your own story. If you haven't got a computer or an email address, call in at the library and they can help. Timperley Library - last Friday of the month from 10am, phone to book a session 912 5600. Please note revised EMAIL ADDRESS. You can now only send us an email via the website - see Mail Form page. See you around Hazel Pryor Recruit more members - Ask your friends and neighbours Subscription for 2005/06 is £5.00, but new members paying NOW will have their membership extended up to October 2007. ___________________________________________________________________________ I/We wish to become members of Timperley Civic Society and enclose membership fee(s) of ....... (cheques payable to Timperley Civic Society) Name(s).................................................. Address.................................................. ................................................. Postcode…………………… Send this form with payment to: Roy Griffiths 21 Thorley Lane, Timperley, WA15 7BJ Membership details are recorded on a computer data base. The data will only be used by Timperley Civic Society From Newsletter, August 2006 Dear Member Welcome to sunny Timperley, where the Brook Close pear tree outside Lyburn Hall (not Latham) still thrives - but only for a while. Work will be starting soon by United Utilities on the improvement to water quality in Timperley Brook. Ah, but will it stop the flooding? That's the question. It's reminder time again for our AGM, and for you to consider if you could help the society by joining the committee. And yes, this year it IS a speaker from the RSPB (I hope!) - see Events page. Some Successes - Open Meetings: In March, Anne Jefferys' talk about Family History was very interesting as she told us of her own family research. The visit to Wythenshawe Hall was changed at the last minute as men were working on roof repairs. Instead we enjoyed a tour round the gardens, and the cactus and tropical houses. We will arrange a future visit to the hall when the workmen are done. Our booked speaker for May was unable to come, but at short notice Derek Richbell stepped in with a fascinating slide show about Victorian studio portrait photos, demonstrating how you can date photographs from the changes in (mostly ladies') clothing and hairstyles (and how to tell if that little child in skirts is a boy!) The Trafford in Bloom displays seem to have been enjoyed by the judges along with the scarecrows provided by local schools, especially the ones along Shaftesbury Avenue. More flower tubs were installed as part of the village refurbishment scheme. Several people have commented about the lack of seats - but if you look for the tall, tiered planters each one has a bench attached. We're still checking out the location of waste bins, and the problem of cars pulling onto the pavement by the NatWest bank - more bollards or railings needed. And Disappointments - The Civic Society notice board has been ripped off the wall and destroyed, so that will need to be replaced. And there are still no further developments about the public toilets on Thorley Lane car park - still closed. If you went to any of the Trafford Roadshows, you could have picked up a Ward Profile with a brief pen picture. Timperley comes under several wards that are not obvious:- Village and Timperley, but also Broadheath, Hale Barns and a bit in Altrincham ward. I thought the way the information was presented a bit confusing, and some of it was downright wrong, but the main concerns stated for each area seemed right. Check them on the Trafford website: www.trafford.gov.uk/roadshows/ A56 Park Road/Washway Road/Woodcote Road junction The GMPTE has plans for changes to this junction, as part of the "Quality Bus Corridor" programme, to include new turning lanes along Washway Road. But this will mean compulsory purchase of already small front gardens, and local residents were understandably annoyed that very little notice was given of a consultation meeting and only two weeks to make comments. Awaiting further news. Watling Gate: Staying at the northwest end of Timperley, the formal notice has been given that some of the land at Newton Park is to be included in the sale of Watling Gate house. (They had to advertise it twice, having got the plans wrong the first time!) Planning Applications include one major house building scheme for land at Deansgate Lane. This is the area currently occupied by Rotalac Plastics and others in the triangle between the canal, old railway embankment and Deansgate Lane. Manchester Methodist Housing Association plan to build 150 one-and two-bedroomed flats as 'affordable housing', some for rent and others with shared ownership. They plan three blocks of 2, 3 or 4 storeys, with car parking and some open space. They have done a traffic survey and concluded that there will be little increase in vehicles from the current use. You can read all this on the Trafford website: www.trafford.gov.uk - go to Planning applications and Search for application number H/64990. United Utilities are planning a temporary compound for equipment for their work on Timperley Brook. This will be on Thorley Lane opposite to Wyevale, next to the farm buildings where the footpath goes over the fields to Wellfield Lane. Subscription reminder - Due for renewal in October for 2006-07. Introduce a friend or neighbour - new members paying NOW will have their membership extended up to October 2007 for the same cost of £5. Please note revised EMAIL ADDRESS. You can now only send us an email via the website. Data Protection Membership details are recorded on a computer data base. The data will only be used by Timperley Civic Society Hazel Pryor From Newsletter, January 2007 Dear Member Welcome to 2007's first newsletter, and I hope you've not suffered too badly in the gales. (I can't see where that piece of slate sticking in my front lawn came from, might be from next door's roof?) There are reports of trees blown down on Mossgrove Road, the golf course, Clay Lane and on Kentmere Road and Brook Avenue that were mentioned in the Messenger. We have had some good meetings since the last newsletter and of course the Timperley Country Fair. Boy did we get wet! The planned photo quiz was abandonned because of everything getting soaked, so we will re-run that for next time. The provisional date is 15th Sept 2007. At the AGM we had a good turnout and a fascinating talk from Mrs Rykz from the RSPB with super photos. The October Quiz Night was again a success, with thanks to Sandra Bingham and her helpers for the supper. At the November meeting, David McNulty, chief executive of Trafford Council gave us an introduction to his background and his work and Trafford policies. He said he has "significant ambitions" for the borough!! For the Christmas meeting Mr. Slater gave a fascinating and informative talk on Victorian Theatre which he illustrated with (animated) readings from the period. The plays, which now seem a little quaint, were also a commentary on the times and attitudes which were held then. Mr. Slater gave us a social history as well as an interesting talk. A very good evening, with nice punch and mince pies. It's all Changes Well the old pear tree on Brook Close is down, and the Loos on Thorley Lane car park are gone, and you can't use the ones in the Library on Friday afternoons any more, 'cause it shuts at one! The old 298 and 299 circular Bus service via Deansgate Lane and Delaheys Road has been terminated (after at least 50 years that I can remember). The new number 20 provides a service to the Airport (26 minutes from the village), useful if you haven't got too much luggage. But for some people it has been a bad move. The buses used are not always the easy access, low-step ones. Arriva say if you phone their Wythenshawe Depot on the day you intend to travel they will say which kind of bus is going to be on. In the meantime some older residents have been marooned at home and lost their independence by not being able to get on the bus. People along Park Road have also complained that they are now without a stop between Heyes Lane and Riddings Road. Watling Gate The saga of Watling Gate continues. Our chairman wrote asking the Trafford executive to reconsider the proposal to sell. The decision to sell was called back for scrutiny, and the Friends of Newton Park put forward an alternative solution, but there is no decision from Trafford as yet. It appears that there has been an application made to designate Newton Park as a 'common', and this has delayed the process. Planning Applications One of the latest applications will impact on the village if it goes ahead. The plan is for the area at the back of Flower Craft Cottage as-was, including their yard and garage onto Baker Street, for alterations to the shop and a four-storey office block at the rear. No parking spaces will be provided, the assumption being that they will use the public car park at the rear of the library. We have already objected to this as being over-development of the site. There has been an application for The Broomwood Pub site on Mainwood Road. This is for a nursing home, with 60 beds. The pub has been closed for over a year. The footpath across Larkhill field from Thorley Lane to Mosley Road has been causing problems, in particular one lady wound up with a broken ankle after slipping on the muddy path. We'll see if Trafford can find a solution to this problem. Also it has been suggested that seats be put on Larkhill. A while back there was an idea that one of the trees needed felling and the trunk could be made into seats. What do you think? Neighbourhood Forums - These are a good opportunity to make your point with both Trafford officers and local councillors. Altrincham North covers Village, Timperley and Broadheath wards. For those living in the Hale Barns and Altrincham ward parts of Timperley go to the Altrincham South meetings. They start at 6pm for you to speak to councillors and Trafford staff about individual concerns, then the meeting is at 7pm. At the last Forum someone raised the refurbishing of Pickering Lodge Park, to make it more than just a bare grassed area. You could use the Altrincham South Forum as a chance to see inside Altrincham Town Hall now it has been refurbished. There are three ground floor rooms which can be used by the public and some Altrincham artefacts are displayed in the entrance hall. There is a lift and a light refreshments area. See Forthcoming Events page for dates. The new Notice Board is now up on the corner of Paul House - check it for local events. Timperley Walks Leaflets Hazel and Naomi have been trying some walks round Timperley footpaths. Leaflets 50p each for the first two written up by Hazel (more to come later). From Newsletter, May 2007 Welcome to the summer/spring newsletter. Now the weather's better why not try one of our Timperley Walks (Leaflets from the meetings or from Naomi, who says it's time we did another, so watch out for a new leaflet No.3). Fame at last - Timperley on BBC Radio Manchester. You may have seen the brown 'bus' otherwise called Studio 6, parked outside the Stonemason's middle in May and then the radio car on Monday 15th. Becky Want's programme included chats with some locals, mostly businesses in the Village, but a lot was left out including recordings of people's memories about policeman Jack Pinkerton and the time when a Barracuda of the Fleet Air Arm crashed into a house in Park Road during WW2. She also mentioned Timperley again the next day. Recent meetings At our March meeting, Alan Pulford described how to Manage your Health, with special reference to Parkinson's Disease. Everyone commented on the new perspective he gave on this illness, and how you can cope and carry on with life. In April, Bob Merrill's talk about Altrincham in Bloom gave us an insight into the competition and his school's contribution. (There may be changes this year with Altrincham perhaps having a separate competition of its own, so watch out for news.) Pauline Holden's talk in May on 'All our Yesterdays' was very enjoyable, including the 'audience participation' - with comments like "we had one of those" or even "I've still got one like that". We hope she can return with another talk next year - watch this space. Ah, the relief! The new Loo on Thorley Lane car park is now in operation, having waited weeks for the electricity to be connected, and already vandals have done some damage (bit of concrete missing). And LA Coaches have taken over the old 298 and 299 circular Bus service and the 281, but now the number 11 has been changed and no longer goes through the Village, so people from the Broomwood can't use it to get to the Village shops, and the other way, folk from the Village area can't get a bus to Wythenshawe Hospital. And the footpath across Larkhill has been re-surfaced, although the council seem to have missed bits at either end. We'll have to see how it holds up to rainy weather. Trafford held a consultation survey in February about local rights of way, but we've not heard any results yet. We are looking at the rights of way in Timperley. When the Definitive Rights of Way maps were compiled in the 1980s councils were allowed to leave out suburban areas, so the south part of Timperley (with fields and golf course) has paths marked on the 'definitive' map, but the boundary runs along Shaftesbury Avenue/Stockport Road, and in the northwest along Manchester Road, and in between the footpaths are not marked officially as rights of way. They are - but they're not marked as such. Planning Applications We mentioned last time a plan for Flower Craft Cottage, Stockport for a four-storey office block at the rear. Now there has just been another application by the same people for a three-storey office block. The plans are not yet on the Trafford website, so we can't say yet how different this new one is, but we will comment on this. Another recent application is for a children's nursery at 20 Mainwood Road - what do you think? The Trafford UDP (Unitary Development Plan) new version is now out and we have succeeded in getting included several amendments put forward by Timperley Civic Society. We owe thanks to committee members including Brian Bingham and Rod Woodhead, who put in a lot of work on this. We're keeping an eye on the changes proposed for the planning laws, recently in the news, and how they may affect our ability to comment on developments in Timperley. We have been making efforts to get details of our meetings into the Messenger, then recently, the Messenger has started up a 'Timperley District' page on its website. They have asked for input from the Civic Society, so in future this will be another way to publicise what we do. Have a look at: http://www.messengernewspapers.co.uk/news/timperleydistrict/ From Newsletter, September 2007 Dear Member It's all my fault. Oh why did I say in the last newsletter 'Now that the weather is better'. Never mind, I hope you have had an enjoyable 'period of longer days'. Time now to think about our evening meetings including the AGM and our annual Quiz night. But before then we have the Timperley Country Fair - and we could do with some help with the Civic Society's stall. It's not hard work, and you don't have to stay all day, and as they say - many hands do make it easier for all. If you can help out please contact Geoff Flood on 980 1675. Timperley Walks No. 3 is now ready for you to try out - 'pioneered' by Hazel, tested by Naomi and her husband. Number 4 is on hold as the 'pioneering' proved to be more like jungle bashing - must get on to Trafford about that footpath. Get your copy - price 50p - at the Country Fair. Recent meetings Visit to Fletcher Moss Gardens in Didsbury - this was a very enjoyable and interesting visit. If you couldn't make it, why not visit on your own and have a good wander round the gardens. Footpaths have cropped up again. How many people read the official notice in the Messenger about Trafford's proposal for a 'Gating Order' for several paths? Most of these relate to alleyways between rows of houses in Stretford and Old Trafford, but for us the important one relates to our famous Timperley footpath called "The Boggart Path". If you are not familiar with it, this old path (pre 1838 at least) goes between numbers 36 and 38 Heyes Lane, turns right and runs along behind gardens, with two exits onto Ladybrook Ave and Grange Road. We have written to Trafford commenting that we think a 'gating order' is not appropriate for this path, and that it would effectively close the path to all local residents, except the ones whose gardens adjoin the path. Committee members have attended meetings and been involved with some consultation over the last few months, including the AGM of the NW Association of Civic Trusts, and a special Neighbourhood Forum to get our views on the future in Trafford for health, housing, employment etc, for their new plan which will replace the UDP and take us up to 2020. Planning Applications. There have not been as many applications relating to Timperley over the sum­mer and few that we have commented on. The plans for a children's nursery at 20 Mainwood Road -seem to have been refused, as there is a new application for a lesser extension, stressing that the house will be for residential only. If you haven't been past lately - the big house next to St Hugh's Primary School on Park Road has been demolished, after standing empty for several weeks following a fire. There had been an application a long while back for flats to be built and it looks as though that will now take place. There is also a new plan for the proposed flats to be built at 43 Park Road (corner of Frieston Road). Watling Gate has been in the news again, and we wait to see what the outcome will be. If you have noticed the animal welfare charity shop on Stockport Road has been closed and there is a new application for change of use to a 'Health Food Cafe' - sounds good. Also the cycle shop has closed after many years in the village. Timperley on the web Have a look at the Messenger's 'Timperley District' page on its website. Mark has been adding information about the Civic Society, and is waiting for people to add their comments. So have a look and have your say: http://www.messengernewspapers.co.uk/news/timperleydistrict/ We have had a contact via the society's website following mention of Park Road Primary School -'Viewing your site has brought back many memories. I attended the school from August 1945 until I had, with the other boys, to spend the final primary year at Wellington Rd school, I presume due to lack of space at Frieston Rd..... I can recall about ten names from my class, and do remember that in those days we had classes of 50 pupils!' Timperley Country Fair Committee is trying to get a "Timperley Cookbook" together with recipes that can loosely be associated with Timperley. Clearly they will need a little more than Timperley Rhubarb Pie but I guess we could have Quarry Bank Quiche, Pickering Pancakes, Moss Lane Mousse, Frieston Flan or Watling Gate Waffles .... Come on guys you can do much better than that! Can you please send any offers to Graham Cliff- gpcliff@tiscali.co.uk who will forward them to the "cookbook editor". Data Protection - Members' details are kept on computer, for use of the Society only. See you around Hazel Pryor From Newsletter, May 2008 At last, another newsletter! Sony about that, your editor has been extra busy, and much has been happening in Timperley, so now we've got a lot to catch up with. The most recent change in the village area has been the felling of four of the lime trees between Larkhill and Thorley Lane car park. It’s sad to see them go, but a recent check by the council had found a fungal disease, which can lead to sudden collapse of affected trees (i.e. falling on things/people). Two of the main trunk sections have been left, and there are plans to have these carved into benches. The latest road works on Stockport Road are done, so we don't have to endure gridlock up Thorley Lane, until the next lot. If you hadn't noticed, a lot of the kerbs replaced were stone ones, another bit of old Timperley gone.' News from the village: 1908 saw the establishment of the bank, now the NatWest, and of Rook's the ironmongers. Having reached the centenary, Ian and Elsie Hedgecox have now retired. Ian has been a great supporter of the Civic Society, and we are glad that the business will continue - watch out for the dinky delivery van of the new owner. More news: 'The Boggart footpath has been 'gated', despite objections from rights of way supporters, now we wait to see if local people see any improvement in crime/nuisance levels, following its closure. There has been no recent news about Watling Gate house, although I spotted white 'X's on several trees in Newton Park so I expect there has been some tree felling there. At the end of Deansgate Lane, the new development has sprung up quickly, one block of flats has been built and ground cleared for the other. Recent meetings We've had some very good speakers at meetings this last winter: from Keith Warrender's talk on 'Manchester down below' to Mark Wilkinson's recent talk on 'Altrincham in Bloom', via crime prevention, colour, tall ships, working in't mill and the Christmas trip down memory lane. The last meeting was well attended with five visitors as well as 25 members, some of the others not so well. Are we clashing with too many cup ties on TV? Please do support our meetings. The 6th May meeting topic is 'Bletchley Park' with Alan Jackson, (if you get this in time - sorry). Consultations Members of the committee have attended various neighbourhood forum and other meetings, discussmg transport, waste treatment, Balfour Road playing fields Site of BiologicaI Interest (SBI), and the new UDP. Planning Applications The big item recently has been the application by the Barracuda Group for a 'drinking establishment’ at the premises of the Co-op nearest the Library on Stockport Road. Having heard of the problems with trouble at the Barracuda Bar in Altrincham, we were very concerned, especially regarding its location with the retirement flats opposite and at the rear. The Civic Society committee sprang into action, and promptly sent in our detailed objection, and printed off and hand delivered 1000 leaflets around the village. The number of letters sent in to Trafford and the ground swell of opinion against this led to Barracuda withdrawing its proposal. This is why we regularly check all the local planning applications, and thanks to this, the prompt action of the committee members and your support, we can influence planning decisions. Another major development is planned for the site of Battman's nursery in Deansgate Lane. This would include a doctor's clinic, a nursing home and residential apartments. This seems a reasonable use of the plot, just a worry about the amount of traffic. South Trafford Archaeology Group have applied to build a new bridge across the moat at Timperley Hall. This is the start of a long-term scheme to make the historic moated site accessible as an historic/ educational resource. Trafford's latest thing is applications for flagpoles to be erected in local parks. These are specified as 'ADV' applications - i.e. to advertise the council's Green awards. One is planned to go in the small circular garden area on 'Timperley Green'. This is rather a sore point, as there wouldn't be a 'Timperley Green' area if the Civic Society hadn't fought so hard to keep that open space. The face of Altrincham is changing rapidly and plans for more developments include the massive Altair site next to the Leisure Centre/ Baths, and for the single storey shops along Railway Street to be replaced by multi-storey buildings. I personally think these low buildings are part of Altrincham's character. Take them away and the town will look like any other. And have you noticed that The Railway Inn across from the Malt Shovels has been boarded up? There is a new application for this to be demolished and an extension made to the office block next to it on Stamford Street. So from Barrington Road right up Victoria Street to The Old Roebuck pub wlll be just office blocks. Timperley on the web Have you seen the Messenger's 'Timperley District' page on its website? You can add comments, so have a look and have your say: http://www.messengernewspapers.co.uk/news/timperleydistrict/ Timperley Brass Band need your help - If you have some time to spare, join in the success of the band by helping out with some of the backstage jobs - contact Peter Harwood 980 1761. Timperley Walks Leaflets - Hazel and Naomi have been trying some walks round Timperley footpaths. Leaflets 50p each. Don't forget Timperley Trekkers walk out on Wednesdays, starting from the Broomwood - check posters for dates. From Newsletter, August 2008 Dear Member Oops, I got it wrong. The date for the Timperley Country Fair is Saturday 13th September, not the 20th as quoted in the last newsletter - my apologies. Just hope the weather is fine for that day. It's the time of the year for the Society's AGM on 1st October. The speaker is David Eastwood, who has been researching the papers of the Earl of Stamford who left Dunham Massey to the National Trust. Local News We've had a couple of disasters to old buildings in Timperley. The first in May was the car accident that demolished the front part of Constables shop on Park Road. Then more recently I noticed a small piece in the Messenger about a fire in an empty cottage at Stockport County's training ground on Ridgeway Road. The building involved was the older part of the farmhouse that was Manor Farm, not sure how bad the damage is. Both these were built before 1838 (see over the page). There's been 'movement' at the loo at Thorley Lane car-park! Following problems with the toilet, Trafford have turned the whole unit by 45 degrees, so now when the door jams open, you don't get a full frontal view of the lit-up toilet! Thanks to Chris Frankland, the tree surgeon, we now have four benches on Larkhill, made from the lime trees that were felled. Chris and his men very professionally cut up the trunks one evening with an audience of scouts and local residents. The cost has been split between the Society and Larkhill Centre. We have written again about the No. 11 bus being routed through the village, but no joy. The reply does not acknowledge the problem of getting to Wythenshawe Hospital from the village, where we have 3 lots of retirement flats, or from the Broomwood estate to the village for shops, library, post office, etc. Recent meetings & visits About 20 members met for an interesting guided tour round Wythenshawe Hall. Although not all the rooms are included in the tour, and we didn't see the areas used for wedding receptions, there was some fascinating detail and glimpses of past glory. They have an exhibition of people's memories of the park. Well worth a visit if you haven't been recently. Committee members attended the last Neighbourhood Forum to hear about the new waste collection with the proposed four wheelie bins: new grey bin for rubbish, new blue bin for paper etc, the existing black bin for tins, glass & plastic, plus the green one for garden stuff. We've been told that Timperley will get the new bins in September, with instructions. You can then ask for assistance or smaller bins. The Trafford Core Strategy draft is available for checking on the Trafford website and at Libraries. This will replace the UDP (that we spent such time over a few years ago) and will be the basis for future decisions, so we will be looking to see how it will affect Timperley. Planning Applications We have recently objected to plans to put advertising signs on roundabouts - specifically the one at the junction of Thorley Lane/ Clay Lane / Wood Lane. For those who remember, this roundabout was put in place after a local man was killed there. We don't want any signs blocking the visibility at this busy junction. The detailed plans for the Battman's nursery site have been put on the Trafford website - a residential care home, day centre, children's nursery and medical centre, with parking and a new access road. What was there in Timperley before your house was built? See Timperley in 1838 on the Cheshire Records Office website. Detailed 'Tithe' maps show all fields and buildings numbered and matched to owners and occupiers. See the old maps alongside current ones and even aerial photos. Zoom in to a plot and get details of what was there and who owned it. Explore at: http://maps.cheshire.gov.uk/tithemaps/ Timperley on the web Have you seen the Messenger's 'Timperley District' page on its website? You can add comments, so have a look and have your say: http://www.messengernewspapers.co.uk/news/timperleydistrict/ Timperley Walks Leaflets - Hazel and Naomi have been trying some walks round Timperley footpaths. Leaflets 50p each. Don't forget Timperley Trekkers walk out on Wednesdays, starting from the Broomwood - check posters for dates. Please note revised EMAIL ADDRESS. You can now only send us an email via the website. Timperley Civic Society website: http://www,communigate.co.uk/chesh/timperleycivicsociety Data Protection - Members' details are kept on computer, for use of the Society only. See you around Hazel Pryor From Newsletter, January 2009 Happy New Year to you all, and apologies for the delay in getting the 'November' newsletter out! I hope this will reach you in time for the next Open Meeting on February 3rd, (see details over the page.) The two men from GMPTE were nearly swamped at the consultation about buses outside Luxistore back on 7th October. As a result of this we have - a New bus route - yippee. The new Number 25 Timperley Village service will start on 28th January. It's a sort of extended figure eight that links the village with the Broomwood estate, Green Lane school, Grove Lane Health Centre and Riddings and Grange estates. Starting from Thorley Lane, it turns left onto Stockport Road, then down Grove Lane past the Health Centre to Moss Lane, then right along to Park Road. Then down Riddings Road, Woodhouse Lane East, Heyes Lane, left down Langham Grove, and via Grange Ave and Grange Road back to Park Road, turning Right and back down to Moss Lane corner, back along Moss Lane and Grove Lane to the Village. Then it goes up Thorley Lane, left long Shaftesbury Ave, and right along Aimson Road East, Greystoke Ave and Mainwood Road. Then it turns Left up Thorley Lane, and back via Green Lane and Wood Lane, down Thorley Lane to the Village. It sounds complicated so if you get the chance look at the map in the window of Threshers Off-licence next to Luxistore. Also pick up a timetable from there. We still haven't got a bus-link from the Village to Wythenshawe Hospital, but at least now we can get nearer to the Metro station, Broomwood folk can get to the Village, and for the first time ever we have a bus passing the Health Centre. Please take advantage of this new service, we know the saying - 'Use it, or lose it'. Recent (and not so recent!) meetings and events The Country Fair in September was a good event with decent weather. We recruited several new members, sold out of the Walks leaflets and had quite a few takers for the Photo Quiz, but only four people returned their entry forms and only one was all correct. We've had some good meetings, starting from the AGM in October when David Eastwood gave us just a taster of his research into the life of the last Earl of Stamford (more to come I hope). The Quiz Night was as usual an enjoyable event, but with fewer tickets sold. Do you want to continue this sort of evening or any suggestions for a change? The December meeting on waste disposal was well attended and very useful. The speaker from Trafford fielded lots of questions and took up a couple of individual problems for people. The smaller size bins are in heavy demand so anyone wanting these will need to be patient. Roads We have reported to Trafford on the state of the road surface on Stockport Road, between the Bloomsbury Lane and the traffic lights. Repairs were being left until building work was completed on Quarryman's View and the flats opposite, so now we're chasing this up. Trees and things If you go down to the Park today, you're sure of a big surprise - in Newton Park off Park Road, watch out for the fairy's house carved into a tree trunk. There's the possibility of more carving on the beech tree trunks on Larkhill, as well as more benches. I was worried that trees marked with a white X in Newton Park were to be felled, but I think they have been topped instead. If you have a look carefully at the trees in our parks, each one has been given a numbered tag. I suppose at the same time, any problems were noted and trees with fungus disease, such as the two beeches on Larkhill, had to be felled. Trafford MBC have a scheme for sponsoring trees, so the Civic Society will sponsor a new tree for Larkhill for planting this spring. Anyone can do this - any ideas for elsewhere in Timperley for next winter's planting season? Planning Applications - a few recent applications: The space next to St Hugh's Primary School on Park Road has plans for two pairs of 3-storey houses. A children's play centre is proposed for the 'Emma Somerset' building at Park Road Industrial Estate. And the planning application for development of Newbury Court sheltered housing was put in, just before Christmas, for a part 2-storey and part 3-storey building to provide 38 'extra care' elderly persons' apartments. When we checked on the Trafford website to see the detailed plans they were not yet available, so we will have to wait to see them before we can comment. (If you want to try, the reference is: H/70672.) Timperley on the web Have you seen the Messenger's 'Timperley District' page on its website? You can add comments, so have a look and have your say: http://www.messengernewspapers.co.uk/news/timperleydistrict/ Timperley Walks Leaflets - At least one member and family enjoyed a Timperley Walks over the Xmas holiday, on a crispy day when the mud was frozen hard! Have you tried one yet? Leaflets 50p each. Please note revised EMAIL ADDRESS. You can now only send us an email via the website. Timperley Civic Society website: http://www.communigate.co.uk/chesh/timperleycivicsociety See you around - Hazel Pryor From Newsletter, May 2009 Wow, look at this weather! Time to get out and about in Timperley (if it's too hot during the day, take an evening stroll). We are very lucky with our green spaces - have you been to Newton Park off Frieston Road, to the nature area at the end of Attenbury's Lane, or down Brooks's Drive or along the path beside Fairywell Brook? Have a look at King George's Pool to see what birds are there, then come back via the moat at the back of the Old Hall Hotel where STAG are excavating more finds from the Timperley Hall site. (They usually dig on Sundays and Tuesdays.) And have you seen the three bears yet? With Timperley's gardening tradition - Mary Eastwood's garden at 35 Heyes Lane is open for the National Gardens Scheme on Weds 10th and Sunday 14th June, and Mr & Mrs Robinson's at 199 Stockport Road is also open on Sunday 14th June and on 2nd August. A bit further afield, join us on Wednesday June 10th for a visit to the Garden at Quarry Bank Mill house at Styal. See Forthcoming Events page for details. There will be some changes in the Committee this autumn: David English has been our minutes secretary for several years, but will relinquish this job in the autumn. Also Neil Smith has continued on the committee since he moved to Sale, but now finds a regular clash on Tuesday evenings, so he is retiring. This means we will need a new minutes secretary and more committee members, so if you could help or know anyone who might be interested, please get in touch. Recent (and not so recent!) meetings and events Our talks this spring have been an interesting selection (although we seem to have clashed more than once with football matches on TV!!) February's talk by Dr. J. Ackroyd on 'Man's First Flight - in Yorkshire!' about Sir George Cayley and the early history of aviation was enjoyed by 37 people. The talk on Henshaw's Society for the Blind was a great success, extremely well presented with lively discussion. The speaker brought lots of excellent vision aids and a variety of spectacles. In April the talk about Timperley Brass Band had to be cancelled as the band is presently having problems having lost about 10 musicians. Instead we had a fascinating talk with slides and sound excerpts about Barrel Pianos by Roland Antonelli. His family originally made barrel pianos at premises in north Manchester and were very involved with the Italian community. May's talk was appropriately about Folklore and Traditions of the Northwest. John Doughty covered traditions from origins in the mists of time, to the Bacup Cocoanutters, mummer plays and Knutsford May Day. What customs do we have in this area - what have we lost, or what will become a tradition in the future? Just as a titbit, the logo on the printed version showing our registration with The Civic Trust will be gone from our newsletter soon as that organisation will cease operation - but we won't! Trees The Society has sponsored one of the new trees on Larkhill - a sweet chestnut, planted at the 'top' of the park near the first house in Thorley Lane, where the two big beech trees were felled. We are investigating sponsoring another tree, planting more bulbs and adding picnic benches. Larkhill will be one of the sites inspected for Timperley In Bloom, along with the Community Orchard, Quarry Bank Gardens and sites on the Broomwood. If you can think where we could add other planting in Timperley please let us know. Planning Applications - The recession has led to a drop in planning applications, but the committee has commented on several developments over the last few months, including: Newbury Court, Shaw's Green open space at Barrington Road, Altrincham and a replacement for Altrincham Hospital. One recent application is for the old booking office at Timperley Metrolink station to become a coffee shop. We have also brought up with Trafford the state of Thorley Lane car park and the poor surface on Stockport Road, and of course the continuing saga of the bus services in Timperley. Footpath Diversion We've lost a little bit of old Timperley with the diversion of the footpath from Old Heyes Road to Heyes Lane. The diversion will not make much difference to anyone using the path, but this was part of the original route of Heyes Lane. How old? Who knows - it was there before 1838 anyway. Christmas Cards We are planning to produce Christmas Cards again this year, in colour this time, and these will be available at the Country Fair. Also we are having some plain greetings cards/notelets printed, for use any time. Can you guess what the picture will be? Timperley on the web. Have you seen the Messenger's 'Timperley District' page on its website? Mark is in charge of adding stories regularly. You can add comments, so have a look and have your say: http://www.messengernewspapers.co.uk/news/timperleydistrict/ Hazel Pryor Newsletter August 2009 Dear Member I hope you have enjoyed the summer, and are looking forward to autumn and winter events. We have the Timperley Country Fair coming up, then the Society's AGM with a talk by John Hill-Wilson on the Altrincham Circular walk. Make a note of the date for the AGM and why not bring a friend. Spread the word around about the Civic Society - it is here for all of Timperley. We have decided not to have a Quiz night this year, but have some interesting talks booked, do try and join us. The Society's summer visit to the garden at Quarry Bank House in Styal in June was very enjoyable, with enthusiastic volunteer guides showing our group round. There's a report on the Messenger's Timperley District website (see address over the page). Well worth a visit if you have not yet been. Help wanted - Timperley Country Fair - Sat 12th Sept We are again having a stall at the Country Fair, selling our new Christmas Cards, Notelets and the Walks leaflets. We could do with a little extra help if you can spare a half hour or more to help staff the stand during the day, or assist with putting up or taking down the gazebo. Please contact Sandra Bingham on 0161 980 4160 News Titbits Hurray, Hurrah - Stockport Road has its new surface at last and the contractors finished almost on time. Green Lane is currently being resurfaced and it must be a bigger job as it is closed for several weeks. And now also Wood Lane will be closed. We have heard that a right-of-way has been confirmed at Newton Park, by Watling Gate. Also have you noticed the yew tree in front of The Hilal restaurant has gone? The new care home has opened on Mainwood Road, and those who have visited the G-Force Cafe at the Broomwood shops say it is well worth a visit especially for lunch! The Civic Society new Christmas Cards are ready - get yours at the Timperley Country Fair on Saturday 12th September From Newsletter, December 2009 Dear Member, Christmas Greetings. I hope this gets to you in time for the December meeting on Tuesday 15th then you won't miss the punch and mince pies, and what is promised to be a very good We have the new Christmas cards available - coloured cards fo the Larkhill Centre in the snow, and coloured notelets of the Three Bears! Have you got yours yet? We Welcome tow new committee members, who joined us after the AGM in October - Christina Capey and Judie Collins. Up to now we haven't got a definite minutes secretary, although Alan is filling in. Altrincham in Bloom - Congratultions! Congratulations to Timperley Community Orchard - the orchard at Beech Fields allotments won the North West Environmental award, thanks to the hard work of Mary Eastwood and the allotment holders. Other awards were for Quarry Bank Gardens, Broomwood Park, Broomwood Primary School (for their wildlife garden) and jountly for Larkhill and Timperley Village - so thank you to all people who make Timperley a 'blooming good' place! For more details look on the Messenger Timperley website. Recent meetings and events The Country Fair couldn't have had a better day - good weather and lots of people around. The Society stall saw plenty of business, with some new members and we nearly sold out of the Timperley Walks leaflets. The talk at the AGM by John Hill-Wilson was a fascinating, very enjoyable armchair walk around the boundaries of Altrincham, showing views araoung the walk through different seasons. Then in November Barbara Lovegrove entertained us with the 'story' of Lindow Man. Planning Applications - Agains very few planning applications within Timperley, but we have commented on a couple that will affect Timperley people, namely - the planned new Altrincham Hospital and the plan for a supermarket in Manchester Road. Extra Care Home - Committee members attended a meeting about the new care home being built on the site of Newbury Court. Some of the facilities there will be available tothe public as well as residents including the dining room, small gym and beauty saloon. Geoff Flood has been asked to join the steering committee. Green Space Strategy - The committe was also represented at Trafford's consultation on green space strategy. Hazel attended a meeting at Altrincham Town Hall. Not all Timperley's green spaces were included, any area smaller than a certain size is not covered by this strategy. At the end of the session, the top three things suggested that generally needed dddoing were: 1. More maintenance. 2. More facilities e.g. benches. 3. Local improvements to individual parks e.g. waste bins. Timperley Station (and Navigation Road) Smart new Yellow paint, but where is the shelter at Timperley and the seats and public phone at Navigation Road. Bits of News - STAG Work has been going on at the moated site behind The Old Hall Hotel - the brick garden wall has been repaired (it had developed a lean!) and more excavation has been done over the summer - lots of pottery found. You may have noticed the New Ying Wah is being altered - Mr. Lee has retired. Another bit of news for older Timperley folk is that Lewis Garner has died. He and his father before him had the market garden on Brook's Drive just over the bridge. Have you spotted? the new "SLOW" flashing sign on Park Road, near St. George's Avenue, as you are coming from Timperley Station towards the Village. The only problem is that it blocks the 'Elderly People Crossing' sign. Timperley Walk No. 4. "Brooks, Woods and Secret Agents" is nearly ready, it just needs a trial run - watch out for Hazel and Naomi with their boots on! Timperley on the Web. Have you seen the Messenger's 'Timperley District' page on its website? Mark is in charge of adding stories regularly. You can add comments, so have a look adn have your say: http://www.messengernewspapers.co.uk/news/timperleydistrict/  Email page  Feedback  Home Timperley Civic Society |Contacts |Forthcoming Events |Trafford Unitary Development Plan |AGM Minutes |Recent News |Newsletter Archive 2002 - |Clubs and Societies |Pubs in Timperley and West Timperley |Churches in Timperley |Political parties in Timperley and West Timperley |Schools in Timperley and West Timperley |Medical Practices in Timperley and West Timperley |From Newsletter, August 2010 |Pharmacies in Timperley and West Timperley |Children's Day Nurseries and Nursery Schools in Timperley. |Newsletter December 2010 |Newsletter August 2011 |Dentists in Timperley and West Timperley |History of Moss Park Gardens |Newsletter May 2012 |Contact Information for Timperley Civic Society |Links for Timperley Civic Society |Message Board |Guestbook |Event Calendar |Mail Form