The Christmas season is upon us and around Burntwood we have already seen many of our Christmas lights switch on events go ahead. All have been well attended, and it’s been lovely to see so many people out and about enjoying them.
Reflecting back over the last 12 months, I’m proud of the many things that Burntwood Town Council has achieved for our community.
Chase Terrace Community Centre was completed and officially opened by Cllr Sue Woodward in August, and it has become a great addition to the town providing local groups and residents a dedicated space for events and activities for everyone.
Throughout the spring and summer months we continued to provide the Burntwood markets and our free Burntwood Wakes Festival and Play in the Parks events, and we look forward to their return in 2026.
The Better Burntwood Fund has supported a range of community groups and organisations with small grants this year, as well as our commissioning programme which is now in its second year supporting local organisations who provide adult mental health and wellbeing and youth services. Two Burntwood students also received £1,000 each as part of the BTC Student Award, designed to recognise their amazing talents and support future ambitions.
We have seen our partnership project with the Lichfield Garrick Theatre, Creative Burntwood grow after successfully receiving funding from Arts Council England to develop creative activities in and around the town, including a free youth theatre group and community choir.
We also had the official opening of Burntwood Skate Park at the Leisure Centre in October, a facility delivered in partnership with Lichfield District Council, and it was an honour to open it with Cllr Andy Smith.
Burntwood Town Council have overseen three more defibrillators installed at Ryecroft Shops, Smalley Court and Oakdene Road bringing the total number across town to 15. As well the new defibrillators, we also have installed bleed kits in all 15 locations in partnership with Lichfield District Council’s Community Safety Partnership.
We look forward to continuing this work and more in 2026, and can I wish everyone a safe and Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year.
Cllr Laura Ennis
Chair of Burntwood Town Council