looking back at 2014
One very big feature of 2014 throughout the world has been the start of
World War 1 commemorations. Arlesey has been no different with Arlesey
Remembers You, which has been one of the best and well supported
projects, but there have also been some other milestones and highlights that
it would be good to remember. A few of these are mentioned below.
New Years Ball at the Village Hall raises £2000 for Cancer Charity.
Arlesey’s very own World War commemoration project is started –
Arlesey Remembers You. It progresses to its conclusion in November
gaining local and national notoriety with the documentary shown on
television.
At an extraordinary meeting of Arlesey Town Council on 10th January
members voted to oppose the current Masterplan for the development
of Arlesey. This is to no avail as Central Bedfordshire Council go
ahead and adopt the plan for the construction of over 1300 houses, a
new ‘relief road’ with school and town centre amenities. Opposition to
the plan by councillors and residents was on the grounds it was out
of proportion to the existing development, apparent lack of thought
over traffic concerns, leaving very little infrastructure to deal with an
estimated increase of 50% in population and traffic.
In February The Blue Lagoon is fenced off for improvement which will
allow public to access certain areas. It is hoped the Lagoon will go
forward and gain ‘Country Park’ status once work is complete.
Independents for Arlesey is established in September as a minor party
hoping to become elected as independent Town Councillors in May
2015.
The Resource Centre is closed and then re-opens with limited access
over staffing issues. A new manager is appointed after the resignation of
Dr. Sam Ward.
The new Car Park for commuters opens in January next to Arlesey
Station. It is flooded in early February by exceptional weather conditions.
Initially parking was free due to cabling issues. The cost is then
advertised as being cheaper than the existing car park.
Local Company, Amenity Trees & Landscapes of Mill Lane, Arlesey,
collect an award from the Association of Professional Landscapers
Awards 2014 at the Gibson Hall in London.
Methodist Church opens a 1 day exhibition, in July, of Memorabilia from
World War 1.
ACORN celebrates 21 years of working together to enhance and upkeep
our green spaces.
Burglaries increase in 2014 with many homes now installing security
options. Residents are also warned to keep pets safe as animals are
also being stolen throughout the country.
A ‘Lights Out’ ceremony takes place in August to reflect on the centenary
of the start of World War 1.
In
September Arlesey Town Council sees another 4 councillors resign in
September with another following shortly after. This makes a total of 17
in current electoral period. Two new members are elected unopposed,
leaving the council short by three members. These are unlikely to be
filled until May 2015’s General Election.
The new vicar the Reverend Geoffrey Boult is installed in September at
St Peter’s Church Arlesey and Guthlac’s in Astwick. He quickly makes
an impact by getting involved in many activities
Arlesey Remembrance Day service is attended by a much larger crowd
paying respects to our fallen soldiers. Arlesey Remembers You also
place nine poppy crosses as part of the project.
Arlesey teenager Zak Holland aged 16, member of the Aisle
O’var Backswording Clubbe claimed victory at the National UK
swordsmanship tournament run by the British Federation for Historical
Swordplay in Lincoln on Saturday 29th of November.
A local benefactor leaves almost £900,000, in November, in trust to St
Peter’s church under condition the interest only be used for maintenance
and repair of the Grade 1 listed building.
December sees the Annual Christmas Tree Festival held at St Peter’s
Church with around 50 trees entered and decorated by local groups
and individuals. The festival raises approximately £1500 for St Peter’s
Church. The winner of the ‘Best Tree’ is announced - We are Nuts about
Christmas - Chase House, 2nd place goes to: Arlesey Remembers You Sam Ward & Jodie Chillery and 3rd is - The Countyside in Winter - Acorn
Christina Harris, Katie Juffs and Katie Juffs.
What’s to come in 2015?
A general Election on 7th May will see voting on Town Council officers,
Ward Councillors and Councillors for Central Beds Council and National
candidates for government.
Arlesey Community Duck Race
Arlesey Fun Day
If you have any news or views on things going on in and around us please
let us know. Alternatively if you have any images you would like to share
please contact on the button by phone or email.
10 |
January 2015
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to advertise telephone: 01462 834265 or go to the website: www.onthebuttonarlesey.co.uk