http://barrowtowncouncil.gov.uk/

Barrow Town Council, Barrow Town Hall, Barrow in Furness (2026)

16/06/2026

🇬🇧 Armed Forces Week in Barrow 🇬🇧

This Saturday marks the start of Armed Forces Week in Barrow, and everyone is warmly invited to join us at Barrow Town Hall to show their support for our Armed Forces community.

The event will begin with a parade, followed by the raising of the Armed Forces Day flag at the Town Hall, recognising the dedication and service of our Armed Forces personnel, veterans, reservists, cadets and their families.

The ceremony will include speeches from the Mayor of Barrow, Cllr Kay Hyland, and the Furness Armed Forces Champion, highlighting the importance of Armed Forces Week and the strong links between the military and our local community.

We will also have the pleasure of awarding the Mayor's Cadet, recognising their commitment, dedication and achievements, and looking forward to their year ahead.

Barrow has a proud military heritage, and Armed Forces Week provides an opportunity for us all to come together and say thank you to those who serve and have served our country.

We look forward to welcoming residents, families, veterans, cadets and visitors to this special occasion.

📍 Barrow Town Hall
📅 Saturday 20th June at 10am
🎖️ Parade, Flag Raising Ceremony, Speeches and Mayor's Cadet Award Presentation

Come along and help us give our Armed Forces the support and recognition they deserve.

🇬🇧

15/06/2026

Mayor Visits High Winds Community Energy

The Mayor of Barrow, Cllr Kay Hyland, was pleased to accept an invitation to attend the AGM of High Winds Community Energy, followed by a site visit to the organisation’s wind turbines on the skyline above Furness.

High Winds Community Energy is a non-profit organisation that owns and operates five wind turbines with a total generating capacity of 11.5 MW. Through its community fund, the organisation supports local charities, sports clubs and community groups with projects that help to decarbonise and insulate community facilities, reduce food poverty, and lower carbon emissions and environmental impacts across the area.

To date, the organisation has distributed hundreds of thousands of pounds to local groups through its community fund, making a significant contribution to communities throughout Furness.

The Mayor was interested to learn more about the organisation’s work and the positive impact its funding has had across the local area. Conditions during the visit were particularly windy, providing a clear demonstration of why the site is so well suited for renewable energy generation.

Further information about High Winds Community Energy can be found at www.highwinds.coop.

11/06/2026

Mayor Visits Barrow on Bikes 🚲

Today, the Mayor of Barrow, Cllr Kay Hyland, accompanied by her Consort Kevin Hyland, visited Barrow on Bikes at Park Vale, Walney, to learn more about the fantastic work the organisation is doing within our community.

During the visit, Kevin generously donated his bicycle to the group, which was gratefully received by Alan, who welcomed the Mayor and explained how Barrow on Bikes is making a positive difference to the lives of local people. Through cycling, the organisation helps improve both physical health and mental wellbeing while bringing people together through friendship and shared experiences.

Barrow on Bikes is a non-profit social enterprise that supports people of all ages and abilities, including those who are visually impaired, helping them gain confidence and ride safely. The organisation also provides bicycle repair services at Bram Longstaffe School and at the Pavilion in Barrow Park.

The Mayor was delighted to hear about the impact the group is having across the community and the opportunities it provides for people to become more active, build confidence and connect with others.

If you have a bicycle you would like to donate, or would like to find out more about the services and activities offered by Barrow on Bikes, please visit their page.

Thank you to Alan and everyone involved with Barrow on Bikes for the warm welcome and for the valuable work they do to support our community. 🚴‍♀️💙

11/06/2026

Mayor’s Charity Fund Presentation

Former Mayor of Barrow, Cllr Fred Chatfield, and Mayoress Mrs Liz Chatfield were delighted to welcome representatives from their chosen charities to the Mayor’s Parlour at Barrow Town Hall for the presentation of funds raised during their year in office.

Following a year of fundraising and the incredible generosity of residents, local organisations and supporters, donations were presented to Love Barrow Families, represented by Alison and Dean, and Mind in Furness, represented by Georgia.

Cllr Fred Chatfield said:

"It has been a privilege to support these two wonderful charities throughout my year as Mayor. The work they do within our community makes a real difference to people's lives, and we are delighted to be able to share the Mayor's Relief Fund with them. We would like to thank everyone who supported our fundraising events and contributed so generously throughout the year."

Cllr Fred Chatfield and Mrs Liz Chatfield wish both charities every success for the future and hope that these funds will help them continue their invaluable work supporting individuals and families across the Furness area.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this fundraising year such a success. Together, we have made a positive difference in our community. 💙

11/06/2026

Community Spirit in Action at Ormsgill Allotments 🌱

Barrow Town Council would like to extend a huge thank you to the volunteers from Furness Multicultural Community Forum and Barrow BID who attended the Ormsgill Allotment Site yesterday to support our Allotment Officer in clearing several vacant plots.

The allotment site is vast, and the hard work, enthusiasm and dedication shown by the volunteers has made a significant difference. Their efforts have helped move us a step closer to preparing these plots for new boundaries to be installed and, ultimately, welcoming new tenants onto the site.

Community volunteering such as this plays a vital role in helping us improve local facilities and create opportunities for residents to enjoy the many benefits of allotment gardening.

If you, your organisation, or a community group would like to support our Allotment Officer with future clearance and improvement projects, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Barrow Town Council to find out how you can get involved.

Together, we can help more people access an allotment plot, enjoy the outdoors, grow their own fresh produce, and experience the many physical and mental wellbeing benefits that come from spending time in the fresh air.

Thank you once again to everyone who gave their time to support this fantastic community project. 🌿💚

08/06/2026

Westmorland and Furness Council update

20mph Initial Consultation Outcomes – Furness Locality Board

Following the conclusion of the 20mph speed limit consultation, they have analysed all responses and are now able to inform of the outcomes.

Barrow Island Community School
A total of 321 properties received individual notification of the consultation; a total of 54 responses were received. This indicates a 17% response rate. Those responses were noted as:
In support of the proposal: 18
In support of the proposal, with suggested amendments: 5
Against the proposal: 31

Greengate Junior School
A total of 167 properties received individual notification of the consultation; a total of 19 responses were received. This indicates a 11% response rate. Those responses were noted as:
In support of the proposal: 7
In support of the proposal, with suggested amendments: 1
Against the proposal: 11

Holy Family Catholic Primary School
A total of 145 properties received individual notification of the consultation; a total of 10 responses were received. This indicates a 7% response rate. Those responses were noted as:
In support of the proposal: 5
In support of the proposal, with suggested amendments: 3
Against the proposal: 2

North Walney (formerly North Walney Primary School)
A total of 386 properties received individual notification of the consultation; a total of 19 responses were received. This indicates a 5% response rate. Those responses were noted as:
In support of the proposal: 8
In support of the proposal, with suggested amendments: 0
Against the proposal: 11

Ormsgill Nursery & Primary School
A total of 1102 properties received individual notification of the consultation; a total of 32 responses were received. This indicates a 3% response rate. Those responses were noted as:
In support of the proposal: 12
In support of the proposal, with suggested amendments: 8
Against the proposal: 12

South Walney Infants and Junior Schools
A total of 483 properties received individual notification of the consultation; a total of 17 responses were received. This indicates a 4% response rate. Those responses were noted as:
In support of the proposal: 1
In support of the proposal, with suggested amendments: 1
Against the proposal: 15

St Bernard’s High School
A total of 497 properties received individual notification of the consultation; a total of 43 responses were received. This indicates a 9% response rate. Those responses were noted as:
In support of the proposal: 17
In support of the proposal, with suggested amendments: 5
Against the proposal: 21

Yarlside Primary School
A total of 1430 properties received individual notification of the consultation; a total of 82 responses were received. This indicates a 6% response rate. Those responses were noted as:
In support of the proposal: 39
In support of the proposal, with suggested amendments: 13
Against the proposal: 30

04/06/2026

💐Mayor Joins Community Planting Day to Help Make Barrow Bloom 💐

The Mayor of Barrow, Councillor Kay Hyland, was delighted to take part in yesterday's Planting Day event held at Barrow Town Hall, joining local schoolchildren, volunteers and community organisations in helping to brighten the town for the summer months.

Despite the challenging weather conditions, the event was a tremendous success, with children enthusiastically planting hundreds of colourful tubs, baskets and containers that will be displayed throughout Barrow.

Speaking after the event, the Mayor said:

"It was a pleasure to join local school children for a day of planting colourful tubs and baskets at Barrow Town Hall for display around the town. Despite the weather, the children were full of enthusiasm and planted hundreds of containers assisted by local businesses and volunteers.

Many thanks to Barrow BID for organising this event, to the Furness Multicultural team, Furness Building Society, Coffee D'Ash, North Scale Community Hub, Friends of Barrow Park and everyone else involved.

Most of all, thank you to all those children who have helped to make Barrow blooming lovely this summer."

The Mayor would like to thank everyone who contributed their time, energy and support to the day, helping to create colourful displays that will be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike throughout the summer.

🌼🌸 Well done to all involved in helping to make Barrow bloom 🌸🌼

28/05/2026

There’s lots happening across Barrow for this year’s Armed Forces Day celebrations and we’re looking forward to a fantastic week of community events supporting our Armed Forces, Veterans, Cadets and military families 🇬🇧

Join us throughout Armed Forces Week for:
🎖️ Parade & Flag Raising Ceremony
🎖️ Meet & Greets with Cadets, Reserves & Veterans
🎖️ Armed Forces Day Parade & Service
🎖️ Live entertainment, singers & games
🎖️ Military vehicles & displays
🎖️ Armed Forces Covenant businesses
🎖️ Flag making at The Bridge
🎖️ Refreshments at the Forum Café
…and much more!

📍 Main Armed Forces Day celebrations take place on Saturday 27th June, including the military parade through the town centre and family fun in the Town Hall Courtyard.

Come along, show your support and help us celebrate our Armed Forces community across Barrow 🇬🇧

Please see the full events poster below for details.

21/05/2026

Barrow Town Council in support of Residents

BARROW TOWN COUNCIL PRESS RELEASE

Barrow Town Council at its meeting on 19th May 2026 approved the following actions:
1. The Town Clerk to send a letter requesting that Westmorland and Furness Council investigate and consider the implementation of an ‘Educational Established Parking Permit Scheme’ to be trialled in the area directly surrounding Barrow Island Community Primary School. Currently the residents on Barrow Island suffer from long-standing issues with parking due to the direct proximity of the Shipyard. There is currently a new parking plan in the consultation phase for implementation, but no concession or consideration has been made for the teachers and staff at Barrow Island Community Primary School. The school has no dedicated car park facility; therefore, the staff are using the reception playground as a temporary measure. The school staff are unable to use the Trinity Street parking permit area due to the zone limited parking times.

2. The Town Clerk to send a letter to Westmorland and Furness Council requesting details of the ‘Assessment and Impact Study’ undertaken by them when determining the closure of the Dova Way Car Park and additionally requesting details of the plans they have secured to ensure that local residents are unaffected by their action. If no such assessment was made, and no plans exist, Barrow Town Council urge Westmorland and Furness Council to re-open the car park until a full impact assessment has been undertaken and mitigating plans have been established.

3. The Town Clerk to send a letter to Westmorland and Furness Council noting to date no fully developed and publicly scrutinised replacement theatre and market scheme has been secured in advance of the demolition, therefore accordingly the Town Council calls upon Westmorland and Furness Council to:-
• Provide a binding and unequivocal guarantee that The Forum will be replaced by a modern, high-quality theatre and cultural facility of no lesser capacity, specification or public accessibility with no reduction in provision.
• Prohibit the commencement of any demolition works until a suitably qualified development partner has been formally appointed and the complete redevelopment scheme, including final designs, technical specifications, delivery model and confirmed funding, has been published in full.
• Approve and publish a clear, fixed and enforceable timetable for demolition, construction and interim arrangements supported by mandatory and regular public reporting to ensure full transparency and accountability.
• Ensure the provision of a high-quality, fully operational temporary theatre and market facilities, such that there is no material loss at any point to Barrow’s cultural, civic, or commercial sector.
• Establish a formal governance structure with defined influence and decision-making guaranteeing ongoing, meaningful and evidenced engagement with residents, councillors, businesses and stakeholders throughout the design and delivery of the project.
• Commit to the long-term ownership, operation, maintenance and appropriate subsidy of the completed theatre and market to secure their continued accessibility, quality and public value.

Any failure to comply with the above requirements shall constitute a material failure of governance and delivery, triggering an immediate report to the appropriate W&F Council committees and boards, including specific and time-bound corrective actions. Barrow Town Council affirms that given the scale of public investment and the national significance of this opportunity any delay, dilution, lack of transparency or departure from these commitments is unacceptable. Accordingly, the above provisions shall be treated as minimum, non-negotiable conditions and no demolition or redevelopment activity shall proceed unless and until they are fully satisfied

21/05/2026

As his year in office comes to an end, Cllr Fred Chatfield reflected on his time serving as Town Mayor of Barrow during the recent Annual Meeting of Barrow Town Council.

Retiring Mayor Cllr Fred Chatfield

Throughout his mayoral year, Cllr Chatfield represented the Town Council at a wide range of community events, civic engagements and local celebrations, supporting organisations, volunteers and residents across the town.

During the Council meeting on Tuesday, he thanked fellow councillors, council staff, community groups and residents for their support throughout his term of office, and spoke about the privilege of serving the people of Barrow as Town Mayor.

Cllr Chatfield was also joined and supported throughout the year by the Mayoress, Liz Chatfield, who attended numerous engagements and community events alongside him.

Barrow Town Council would like to thank Cllr Fred Chatfield for his service, dedication and commitment during his year in office and wish both all the very best for the future.

📄 Please see the retiring Mayor’s speech attached below.

"What a year we`ve had, what an honour to have been the mayor of my home town and an absolute privilege to have met so many lovely people and learnt so much from them.

It’s been an absolutely fantastic time and I would like to thank all those organisations who have kindly invited us to their events and made us so warmly welcome.

We've carried out 139 visits to such a wide, diverse, and variety of events.

From a walk-through Barrows history with the cubs to Remembrance Day.
Its also been an absolute pleasure to support our veterans, who have served our country and deserve our admiration for their service,
Oh, and enjoyed many Pie & Pea lunches at the British Legion!

On behalf of the town council, I have had the honour of signing a bond of friendship with the Submarine service, representing Barrow as part of a delegation to Adelaide and Perth in Australia to discuss the AUKUS project, which is vital to the prosperity of both Barrow and their communities, and the honour of presenting the Freedom of the Town to our own Georgia Stanway.

And what a privilege to welcome the King to the Town Hall, and to take part in the historic naming ceremony for the Royal Port of Barrow

And WOW, I’m so pleased and proud to say that with the help of a merry band of volunteers we’ve actually managed to raise an amazing £11,300 for my charities, Love Barrow Families and MIND In Furness.

I therefore need to take this opportunity to thank the people of Barrow for giving so generously to support my chosen charities.

Also to thank the following for providing us with their more than generous donations and support:-
Sandra Collings and her team at Cumbria Sewing and Crafts
Dandy’s Furniture store
Bender UK
Vino of Yarlside Stores
Paul Hodgson and the Barrow BID team
Alison and Dean and their volunteers from LBF
Mind in Furness and their volunteers
Voce
The Forum and team,
Crafters and stallholders who have supported our successful craft fairs
Big thanks too to our Barrow Town Council staff,
Lesley, Claire and Jenny.

And those too many to mention, including family and friends who have generously donated cash, prizes and their time, without the support of my wife, Liz the Mayoress and them I could not have possibly raised what we’ve achieved.

I wish our new Mayor Cllr Kay Hyland every success and I hope she enjoys her year as much as we have."

Barrow Town Council

16/06/2026

15/06/2026

11/06/2026

11/06/2026

11/06/2026

08/06/2026

04/06/2026

28/05/2026

21/05/2026

21/05/2026

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