Community

New Alresford Town Council

Annual Town Assembly At the Annual Town Assembly held virtually on Tuesday 16th March 2021, the Chairs of our committees gave an overview of work undertaken during an unprecedented year which has frustrated some activities but has shown how we can respond quickly to challenges. We reacted swiftly to the pandemic by setting up the New Alresford Town Council non-medical support network and helpline for the more vulnerable members of our community. All made possible by our team of fantastic volunteers together with Alresford PIGS, Rotary, Churches Together and New Alresford Town Trust. Our grants

At the Annual Town Assembly, we received updates from groups who have benefitted from Council grants. Winchester Basics Bank and Citizens Advice have been extremely busy during the pandemic. It was lovely to hear that the children at Sun Hill Junior School are enjoying their colourful new picnic tables, in a designated area where they can go and have some “quiet time”. We award grants to local groups and organisations serving residents every quarter. Our next round of applications will be considered at the Town Council meeting on 27th April 2021. Applications should be submitted by Tuesday 6th April. We would be delighted to hear from you. Please visit our website for more details.

Winchester Basics Bank We are delighted that Winchester Basics Bank will continue to operate a food hub from our offices at Arlebury Park every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm. They provide emergency food and clothing. Please do not hesitate to ask for help from their friendly team. www. winchesterbasicsbank.co.uk

Citizens Advice We have been asked to appeal to anyone who is experiencing debt problems. Help is at hand. If you have money worries, please don’t delay in contacting them for confidential and impartial advice. www.citizensadvice. org.uk Around our parks In Stratton Bates Rec Ground 24 whips have been planted, a mixture of shade-loving species: yews, holly, and hazel to enhance the existing hedgerow as part of our Spring planting programme. We know that at certain times there is a demand for parking. But please do not park on the grass as this is causing damage to tree roots along the edge of Rosebery Road and there are safety risks to other road users and visitors to the park. If parking in residential roads near the park, please park considerately. We have installed signage as a reminder to drivers.

At Sun Hill Recreation Ground all the play equipment and surfaces have been thoroughly cleaned and the ball shooter has been repainted. We’re pleased with the result and the play area looks smarter and refreshed. In addition, three new bins have been installed: two at Sun Hill and one at Arlebury Park, Our thanks to NATTA building company for kindly installing the bins free of charge.

Community Grants The Watercress and Winterbourne's Community Grant Scheme is offered by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust as part of an initiative focussing on the chalk streams that comprise the Test and Itchen headwater. This scheme offers small grants for community projects that protect, enhance, or celebrate the streams that feed the Rivers Test and Itchen. If you would like more details, please visit www.hiwwt.org.uk

Respect Protect Enjoy We have been asked by the Countryside Service to encourage everyone to work together to ‘Respect Protect and Enjoy’ our countryside and the rights of way network, especially during this time when there has been a huge increase in demand. They are also asking owners to ensure their dogs are kept under control as they can pose a danger to grazing animals. Please see the Hampshire Countryside Service Facebook page for more information.

New Alresford Town Council Arlebury Park, The Avenue, New Alresford, SO24 9EP Phone: 01962 732079 www.newalresford-tc.gov.uk