Wigan Borough Environment & Heritage Network

Meeting minutes

10.30 a.m. July 13th 2015 at Museum of Wigan Life

Present:

Mary Pennington (Wigan Archaeology Society),Tom Price (Civic Trust), Joe Taylor (Billinge History Society), Ken Barston (Stubshaw Cross Residents Group), Avis Freeman (Leigh Soroptimists), John O’Neil (Greenheart),Neil Forshaw (George Formby Society), Ian Rowan (Conservation Officer)

Apologies:
David Shallcross (Leigh Ornithological Society), Alex Miller (Wigan MBC), Geoff Jones (Astley Green Colliery Museum), Glenys McClellan & Marge Harrop (Leigh Family History Society), Richard Sivill (Atherton Heritage), Peter Goodwin (Tradition Films),Peter Taylor (Civic Trust), Derek Wilde (Wigan Family History Society), Jan Johnston (LENDF), Mandy Wellans-Bray (Orrell-Billinge Transition Town Group), Allan Roberts (RSPCB), Lynda Jackson (WBC)

Minutes of the last meeting: True and accurate.

Matters Arising: None.

Introduction Ian Rowan:

The new conservation officer introduced himself and outlined his history prior to taking on the role. In future, he could be a good contact point for communication between Network members and council officers.
He spoke particularly about the Wallgate development currently under way and progress regarding Haigh Hall. He is willing to organise a visit to the Masonic Lodge in Wallgate.

Members Reports:

Ken: The heritage gardens have been maintained by volunteers from council.
John: Produced a booklet about the miners memorial erected in 1920 to honour comrades who lost their lives in the First World War
Tom: Richard Sivill gave the talk about WW1 at their last meeting.
Mary: Distributed newsletters and updated events regarding the archaeology society.
Neil: Distributed calenders and spoke about new information regarding the move from Newton racecourse to Haydock Park racecourse. There is a show on at Mesnes Park Newton August 1st.
Avis: As we are unable to visit Dam House for the next meeting, it will be held at the Museum of Wigan Life

Date next meeting: 24thAugust 2015