Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
Travelling to Leighton Hospital? 🚍
The enhanced D&G Service 12 provides a simple and reliable way to reach the hospital, with:
✓ Buses every 15 minutes
✓ A quick 15‑minute journey from Crewe Town Centre to Leighton Hospital
This service offers an easy travel option for staff, patients and visitors, helping make hospital journeys more convenient for our community.
📅 Latest bus timetable - www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/pdf/public-transport/time-tables/service-12-12a-13.pdf
🚌 Find more public transport information for Cheshire East:
www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/buses
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
OUT AND ABOUT, GETTING THINGS DONE
It was great to once again join our Crewe Police local beat officers this morning for a drop-in surgery and a foot patrol around the St Barnabas area. These visits are always valuable, giving us the chance to catch up, discuss local concerns and be available for residents to raise any issues directly.
While out on patrol we noticed an issue with the new sign on Redwood Drive that I had previously requested. Fortunately, it didn’t take long for the problem to be sorted, and now everything is in place as it should be. Another small but important improvement for our community - just as I like it, getting things done for our area!
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
TACKLING FLY-TIPPING IN ST BARNABAS
I’m keeping a close eye on fly-tipping in St Barnabas and reporting anything I spot whilst out in our area.
Dumping waste in our community isn’t acceptable, and it’s good to see it being cleared quickly. Those responsible can face hefty fines – several in our area already have.
I’m also part of a new 'Cleaner Crewe' project, which will soon be rolling out in St Barnabas, so watch this space!
If you see fly-tipping, please report it so it can be dealt with promptly. 👇
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
A FRESH NEW TREE FOR REDWOOD DRIVE / ALDER DRIVE!
Back in July, I highlighted a dead tree on Redwood Drive/Alder Drive that needed attention. I’m thrilled to share that Taylor Wimpey, the developer responsible for the land, have now planted a brand-new tree – and it looks fantastic!
It’s great to see small changes like this making a real difference to our neighbourhood, and I’m glad I could help get it sorted.
If you spot anything similar in the area that needs attention, please let me know so we can keep our community looking its best!
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
MAINTAINING OUR OPEN SPACES
Thank you to residents who contacted me about some of the trees in the copse adjacent to Redwood Drive along the opposite side of the brook in Leighton Brook Park.
There were some branches that needed attention to improve safety for those using that area of the park.
Several people have asked me about this, so just a quick update.
I previously raised this issue and can confirm that maintenance work to many of the trees was carried out at the end of summer in this area by the parks grounds team.
If you spot an issue in our area, please use this link:
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
🎄 MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR, ST BARNABAS! 🎄
Wishing all residents and their families a wonderful festive season and a brilliant start to 2026!
A huge thank you to everyone who has supported me this year – your kind words and encouragement have been fantastic.
Next year will bring new challenges, and I won’t win every one, but I’ll always give it my best. Together, let’s keep making St Barnabas an even better place in 2026!
Enjoy the holidays and stay safe!
☃️🎅🎁❄️🦌
Councillor James Pratt
Cheshire East support over Christmas:
Council (out of hours): 0300 123 5025
Social Care emergencies: 0300 123 5022
Guinness Housing tenants (emergency repairs): 0303 123 1890
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
FINAL POTHOLE PATROL OF THE YEAR – MONKS LANE
I’ve been out on my final Pothole Patrol of the year, this time along Monks Lane. As always, I’ve reported all the potholes I came across to make sure they’re on the council’s radar.
Although I did manage to secure a small area of resurfacing previously, the rest of the road still needs proper repairs. I’ll continue to press for more permanent work so that Monks Lane is safe and smooth for everyone.
If you spot any potholes in your area, don’t ignore them – report them!
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
I’ll keep an eye on Monks Lane and other local streets to make sure they get the attention they need.
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
MINSHULL NEW ROAD ROUNDABOUT TIDY-UP
A few residents got in touch about the roundabout at Minshull New Road and Badger Avenue (near Morrisons Daily), saying it was looking untidy and making it harder to see traffic when crossing.
It’s now had a bit of a spruce up – and while it’s not quite Tatton Park Gardens, it’s looking much better and visibility is improved too!
If you spot something around St Barnabas that needs sorting, just drop me a message – always happy to help get things done.
Get in touch 👇
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/contact/
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
STREET LIGHTS FIXED BETWEEN CREWE & NANTWICH
💡 A resident told me they’d tried reporting a long stretch of faulty street lights on Middlewich Road, near the Alvaston Hall Hotel, several times with no luck and no response to their emails. It wasn’t great for drivers, and the adjacent footpath and cycleway were pitch black – not safe for anyone using them.
I decided to take action and raised it with Highways. I’m pleased to say it’s now been repaired – let there be light again!
If you spot any street lights out, please report them online. And if you get no luck, let me know – I’ll take it up. 👇
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
🚨 SAVE OUR PCSOs – PROTECT COMMUNITY SAFETY IN CREWE🚨
Cheshire Police plans to cut nearly 70% of Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) in the new year, with redundancies looming just before Christmas.
I have already written to Police and Crime Commissioner Dan Price, asking that these plans are reversed. I have worked closely with PCSOs from Crewe Police in our communities – in parks, town centres, schools, and with local organisations and charities – and I see the value they add and the relationships they build within our communities.
I support UNISON in urging Cheshire Police to reverse these cuts to keep our communities safe and protect the jobs of these dedicated staff. These cuts could mean over 100,000 fewer hours of policing per year across Cheshire.
PCSOs are the feet on the beat – providing a visible presence, deterring anti-social behaviour, gathering intelligence, and working with schools, charities and local businesses. Without them, our streets and communities could be less safe, and vital engagement programmes in schools could be lost.
📢 Make your voice heard: Sign the petition and ask Police and Crime Commissioner Dan Price to save our PCSOs: www.megaphone.org.uk/petitions/keep-cheshire-safe-save-our-pcsos
#SaveOurPCSOs #CheshirePolice #CommunitySafety #ProtectOurCommunities
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
TROLLEYS ON TOUR – HELP SEND THEM HOME
I spotted these two abandoned shopping trolleys on Badger Avenue recently. Not exactly what we want on our streets. I have reported them and asked for a collection.
Don't ignore it, report it
You can help get them home too
Report issues here: www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Or call: 0300 123 5011
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
POTHOLE PATROL – MINSHULL NEW ROAD
I’ve been out on my Pothole Patrol again, this time along Minshull New Road, and spotted several potholes that need attention. I’ve reported them all to make sure they’re on the council’s radar.
I’ve been calling for highways to carry out more permanent repairs along Minshull New Road for some time, and I’ll keep pressing for these works until the road is properly fixed.
If you spot any potholes in your area, don’t ignore them – report them!
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
I’ll continue to keep an eye on Minshull New Road and other local streets to make sure they get the attention they need.
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
ALDER DRIVE / REDWOOD DRIVE FLOODING
Out and about with recent bad weather I noticed the flooding at the end of Alder Drive near Redwood Drive - this is making it difficult to access the footpath due to the standing water.
After speaking with Highways, the road still remains the responsibility of the developer, and that a drain gulley should likely have been installed here.
I have contacted Taylor Wimpey to ask if this can be addressed. Let's hope so!
You can report highways issues here:
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
OUT AND ABOUT IN ST BARNABAS WARD
I’ve been out across our area and, sadly, spotted more fly tipping. Frustrating, but I’ve reported these for clean-up and, where there’s possible evidence, requested investigations.
PRESSING FOR ACTION
I’m still pushing Cheshire East to get the Cleaner Crewe project moving. Once it’s underway, we’ll finally be able to tackle this properly and make a real difference.
NO EXCUSES
There’s really no excuse for leaving rubbish like this. We’re lucky to have a tip at Pyms Lane – not everyone in Cheshire East has one so accessible. Let’s keep our community clean and look out for each other!
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
REPORTING LOCAL ISSUES
It’s great to see so many of you getting involved and sharing your thoughts on my page. I really do appreciate it. Just a quick reminder that if you want an issue to be picked up by the right team, it needs to be reported through the proper system, as Highways and other departments won’t see comments posted here.
You can report things easily here: www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue
If you’ve already reported something but it’s still not been sorted, feel free to drop me an email at james.pratt@cheshireeast.gov.uk and I’ll do my best to help.
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
CHASSAGNE SQUARE SIGN REPLACED
A while back the Chassagne square street name sign was knocked down by a vehicle. I raised this with highways - a new sign has now been installed and is proudly in place.
It's not a big achievement but every little helps to keep our area of St Barnabas maintained and looking its best.
Thanks to the highways team for sorting this one.
Highways issues including potholes can be reported here 👇
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
POTHOLE PATROL – GOULDEN STREET
I’ve been out on Pothole Patrol again, this time on Goulden Street, and have reported several potholes for repair. If you spot any potholes in the area, please report them so they can be fixed.
Report a pothole - www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
While pothole repairs are only a short-term solution, I’m continuing to push for more long-term improvements across our area, like the recent success with the resurfacing of Underwood Lane.
Let’s keep working together to make St Barnabas an even better place!
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
KETTELL AVENUE / BOWEN COOKE AVENUE JUNCTION REFRESHED
You might have noticed that a number of road markings across St Barnabas have recently been repainted.
Although I’m advised that Highways carry out routine inspections, I felt there was still more work that needed to be done. After checking the condition of markings in our area, I put in several requests for maintenance work to be carried out.
A big thank you to local residents who got in touch to raise concerns about the Kettell Avenue / Bowen Cooke Avenue junction, where the Give Way markings had become very worn. There had even been reports of near misses, as some drivers were unsure when to give way.
I’m pleased to say these markings have now been refreshed, along with many others across St Barnabas.
See if you can spot the new markings around our area! 🚗✨
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
FLY-TIPPING ALERT – FRANK WEBB AVENUE
If you’re a parent of a child at Underwood West Academy and walk to and from school via the back gates through the alley on Frank Webb Avenue, you may have noticed this accumulation of fly-tipping. Not really what we want to walk past each day?
I spotted this on a recent walk around the ward and have already raised requests for it to be cleared.
If you see fly-tipping, don’t ignore it – report it!
Call: 0300 123 5011
Or report online: www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
CREWE SHEDDERS - A VISIT TO MEN IN SHEDS
I had a lovely time visiting Crewe Shedders yesterday while they were running their Christmas pop up stall. It was a great chance to learn more about the fantastic work they do, see their excellent facilities and hear about the support they offer to people in our community.
Crewe Men in Sheds plays an important role in promoting social inclusion and supporting people who may be experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Their work helps those affected by retirement, unemployment, bereavement, old age, disability or ill health, whether mental or physical. It was inspiring to see how they create a welcoming place for people to connect, share skills and enjoy time together.
Many thanks to Graham for the tour and for taking the time to explain all the brilliant things happening at the Shed.
They are always happy to welcome new members. If you would like to learn more, feel free to drop in during the week. You can find them at Unit 16, Brierley Business Centre, Mirion Street, Crewe, CW1 2AZ.
You can also find out more on their Facebook page Crewe Shedders or on their website at crewemeninsheds.org.uk
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
NEW ST PAUL’S SHOP NOW OPEN IN TOWN
It was fantastic to be at the opening of St Paul's Centre's brand new shop on Victoria Street this morning, right next to Chatwins bakery.
Many of you will know their centre on Hightown, well known for its Friday sales, and now you can pick up a bargain in town too. The shop’s bright branding represents Hope, Dignity, Confidence and Opportunity, reflecting everything St Paul’s brings to our community in Crewe. Every pound spent goes straight back into supporting local people.
Do pop in, show your support and see what treasures you can find. I picked up a great bargain this morning, you never know what you’ll come across!
They’re open until 5pm today, then Tuesday (9.30am to 4.30pm), Wednesday (1.30pm to 4.30pm), Thursday (9.30am to 4.30pm), Friday (9.30am to 4pm) and Saturday (9am to 5pm).
Find out more about St Paul's Centre on their facebook page or at www.stpaulscentre.org.uk
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
ACCESSIBILITY CONCERNS AT FORGE STREET STEPS
The southern gateway link is now finally open, improving access from High Street to Forge Street via Mill Street and Vernon Way. However, I’m still concerned about the steps from the “Home Bargains” car park to Forge Street by the Lifestyle Centre, which make access difficult for many.
Although this isn’t in St Barnabas ward, it’s an issue many of my residents have highlighted. I first raised this with Cheshire East back in August, but little progress has been made as the council doesn’t own the land the steps are on.
Ideally, a ramp would provide proper access for everyone. Residents have told me that even a handrail on both sides of the steps would make a huge difference, especially for shoppers to Dunelm, Home Bargains, and even those passing through to Tesco on foot or by other means.
Whilst it would be great if Cheshire East took responsibility to get this sorted, I’ve already written to the owners of the retail park to ask for improvements, and I’m hopeful we can make this route safer and more accessible for everyone soon.
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
OUT IN OUR COMMUNITY - REDWOOD DRIVE
This morning I was out on Redwood Drive after residents raised concerns about fly tipping. It was great to chat with people on the street, even if I did get completely soaked – coat and waterproof trainers definitely earned their keep!
I’ve delivered information to all homes about responsible waste disposal and how to report any issues. It was encouraging to see how many residents care about keeping the area looking its best.
We all want a clean and welcoming community, so please keep reporting problems and disposing of waste properly. Together we can keep Redwood Drive a place we can be proud of, rain or shine.
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
FIRST WISHING WELL SANTA DASH
It was great to join Wishing Well last night with Cllr Toni Mortimer for their first Santa Dash fundraising event at McLaren Street Park.
Thank you to everyone who supported the evening, including staff, volunteers, parents and of course our young people. Despite the chilly evening, there was a fantastic turnout and lots of festive fun.
A big thank you to Snap Fitness Crewe for helping us get ready for our runs with warm-up activities. It certainly didn’t matter that it was a chilly night. We were also joined by the Rotary Club of Crewe, whose support was very much appreciated.
The children enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies, glow sticks to light the way, and a certificate and goodies for completing their Santa Dash. Well done to Briony who won the prize hamper.
Don’t forget that Wishing Well are collecting for their Christmas Toy Appeal. If you can donate a new gift for children up to 16 years old, please pop by their Start Well Hub on Chester Bridge (Market Street), or Jubilee Gardens (Asda car park) or call 07894 123413. Thank you!
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
🎅🎄 SANTA DASH TONIGHT – JOIN THE FESTIVE FUN! 🎄🎅
📍 Location: McLaren Street Park, McLaren St, Crewe CW1 3SP
⏰ Time: TONIGHT from 4pm
Come along for festive fun and help fundraise for Start Well at The Wishing Well to support children and families in Crewe.
Everyone’s welcome!
✨ What’s happening:
⭐Run or walk the circuit
⭐Wear your Christmas jumper and festive accessories
⭐Bring a torch if you have one
⭐Enjoy Christmas music and seasonal refreshments
⭐Cheer on the runners
⭐Take home an award if you complete the circuit
🎟️ Tickets: (cash only please)
£4 per child
£6 per adult
£20 per family
All funds raised support Start Well services for children and families in our community.
👧👦 Children over 8 may attend independently.
Come and join the festive fun – we can’t wait to see you there! 🤗
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
MCNEILL AVENUE ALLEY TIDY UP
Thanks to the team from The Guinness Partnership who have completed work to cut back and tidy up the alleyway where the footpath runs between McNeill Avenue and West Street.
It looks much better! During my walk to see the completed work, there was no fly-tipping either which was good news, given the work we have been doing to tackle these issues. A big improvement for residents in this area of St Barnabas.
If you do spot an issue, report it here 👇
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
TACKLING FLY-TIPPING IN ST BARNABAS
I’ve been out and about around our area and recently reported many incidents of filthy fly-tipping. I’ve requested all of these to be cleared, and where there are dumped bin bags or items with address labels, I’ve also requested investigations so that the perpetrators can be fined.
We don’t want this filthy mess on our streets. Help keep St Barnabas clean – if you see fly-tipping, don’t ignore it, report it!
Report online: www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
Or call: 0300 123 5011
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
🌟 CREWE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS CELEBRATION ✨
Thank you to everyone who came along for Crewe’s Christmas light switch on. ⋆꙳•❅*🎄*❆•꙳⋆
It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying the celebrations, including the community lantern parade, the festive market, the brilliant music from the The Swinging Woodpeckers and the Cheshire Pop Choirs, the entertainment from Father Christmas and the Crewe Lyceum “Jack and the Beanstalk” pantomime cast, as well as the all important light switch on this evening.
A special thanks to Crewe Town Council for putting together another brilliant event for our town. Please follow their page for details of more events!
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
POTHOLE PATROL – HULME STREET
I’ve been out and about our area again, keeping an eye on the roads, and came across some real whoppers of potholes on Hulme Street. I’ve reported them all to make sure they’re on the council’s radar.
If you spot any potholes in your area, don’t ignore them – report them!
www.crewestbarnabas.org.uk/report-an-issue/
I’ll continue to keep an eye on Hulme Street and other local roads to make sure they get the attention they need.
Councillor James Pratt - Crewe, St Barnabas
CHRISTMAS lN CREWE - TODAY FROM 2PM
LIGHTS SWITCH ON AT 7PM
Details below 👇
Follow Crewe Town Council for more updates!
Want to be the first to hear about what’s happening in our area?
Join my email newsletter for the latest news, updates, and opportunities to have your say on local issues.
Simply pop your details in below.