Witham Town Council Secures Unanimous Support for 2025-2026 Precept < Back Witham Town Council Precept 2025-2026 14 Jan 2025 Witham Town Council Secures Unanimous Support for 2025-2026 Precept Witham Town Council Secures Unanimous Support for 2025-2026 Precept On Monday, Witham Town Council unanimously approved the town's share of the council tax for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The decision, supported by all parties, will see a modest increase of 15p per week for band D properties, bringing the total cost to £2.14 per week for all services provided by the Town Council. Councillor Phil Barlow, Leader of Witham Town Council, emphasised the value residents receive: "Every penny raised is spent locally, ensuring Witham remains a safe, enjoyable, and healthy place for all our residents. At just over £2 a week, we offer exceptional value for the wide range of services we provide." The precept will fund essential services and community initiatives, including:  Maintenance of the Town Hall, which houses vital services such as the Diabetic Retinopathy Clinic and a Community Banking Hub.  Operation of the Information Centre, providing assistance to residents  Management of allotments  Upkeep of Whetmead Nature Reserve, James Cooke Wood, the Closed Churchyard, and the River Walk  Witham's floral displays and Christmas light decorations  Expanded free community events calendar, including commemorations for the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day  Continued support for community safety initiatives, including CCTV cameras, Witham Special Constabulary and the Street Warden program  Town Park toilets (the rest of the park is owned and managed by Braintree District Council)  Some 60+ streetlights that the Council own and operate  Grants to organisations such as Citizens Advice and The Witham Carnival The Council is particularly focused on supporting vulnerable residents and those less able to afford activities, reflected in the increased number of free events planned for the coming year. Residents are invited to attend the annual public meeting in April, where councillors will provide a detailed overview of the Council's activities and plans for the future. For more information, visit the Town Council website, refer to the Witham Voice, or visit the Town Hall. Previous Next

Another Unforgettable Event < Back Witham Street Entertainment Festival 20 Sept 2025 Another Unforgettable Event Thousands came to Witham on Saturday, 20th September for another unforgettable Witham Street Entertainment Festival. With Newland Street transformed into a pedestrian-friendly avenue of colour, music, and spectacle, this year’s festival once again cemented its place as a signature event in the town’s event calendar. Crowds enjoyed a fun-filled day packed with vibrant performances and interactive workshops. Festivalgoers of all ages joined in the fun, with highlights including lively shows from headline acts such as Oyster Opera, The Pop Up Barn Dance, and Emoto-Matic. Street performers delighted audiences at every turn, with Big Mob B-Boys’ jaw-dropping breakdancing, Angie Mack’s crowd-pleasing hula hoop routines, and the inventive artistry of Octopus Ocean and Shrinking Violets. Family-friendly attractions were everywhere—children marvelled at the Puppet Petting Farm and Walkabout Trees, while visitors of all ages were drawn into the stories, music, and surprises dotted throughout Newland Street, Lockram Lane Car Park, Grove Shopping Centre, and Newlands Shopping Centre. Local favourites such as Titan the Robot and Team Kinetix kept the festive spirit alive all day long. The final act of the festival was sponsored by Essex Cultural Diversity Project and was a performance from artist Dulce Duca supported by local band Project Osiris and Phina Circus and Dance. Councillor Paul Heath, The Mayor of Witham, said: “We are thrilled by the turnout and the fantastic community spirit that defines the Witham Street Entertainment Festival each year. This event not only brings joy and creativity to our town but supports local businesses and provides lasting memories for families and friends.” With thanks to the performers, council staff and enthusiastic volunteers such as St John Ambulance who made the day possible. Previous Next

Witham Town Council secures funding to continue Witham’s vision for the future < Back Witham Town Council Precept 2024-25 12 Jan 2024 Witham Town Council secures funding to continue Witham’s vision for the future On Monday, Town Councillors overwhelmingly agreed that Witham’s share of the district’s council tax will rise by 26p a week for band D residents from April. Most householders in Witham live in band B and C properties and consequently will pay slightly less. Witham Town Council receives the smallest proportion from the overall council tax yet provides Witham with a wealth of services at less than £2 week. The money covers the cost of the Town Hall, which houses the Diabetic Retinopathy Clinic and Barclays hub since the bank’s closure, as well as the Information Centre, whose friendly staff help residents with their queries and concerns. The precept further funds the management of the allotments with a new site opening this year, Witham’s spectacular summer floral displays, the Christmas light decorations and most prominently the overall maintenance of Whetmead Nature Reserve, James Cooke Wood, the Closed Churchyard and the “Jewel in the Crown”, The River Walk. In addition, there are plans this year to increase the number of free events organised by the Town Council, following positive feedback from the recent survey in the quarterly Voice magazine. The Easter Egg Hunt, Halloween Spooktacular, Santa’s grotto and highly successful Street Entertainment Festival and Christmas Fayre will continue and the recent additions of the Teddy Bear’s Picnic and Music Festival will be retained in the event’s calendar as well as the Dog Show returning due to popular demand. Witham Town Council is particularly focused on community safety and has this year overseen the installation of a number of CCTV cameras across the town and manages their ongoing usage. The Council supports a newly appointed Street Warden as well as Witham’s Special Constables, who attend surgeries at the Hub. The Council also facilitates a Community Beat surgery twice monthly at The Town Hall with Essex Police for residents to voice any concerns. Going forward, there are plans to fund more services including speed reduction measures. The leader of Witham Town Council, Councillor Phil Barlow is proud of what Witham achieves “We believe that, at less than £2 a week, we offer outstanding value for money to Witham’s residents. We are committed to making Witham a safe enjoyable and healthy place to live for everyone and this will help make those plans a reality”. The annual public meeting will be held in April where Councillors explain what the Council does in more detail and all the Council’s elected member details are available on the Town Council website, in the Witham Voice or in the Town Hall. Previous Next

Witham to bid for UK Town of Culture 2028 – residents invited to help shape a multi‑million pound cultural vision < Back Witham to bid for UK Town of Culture 2028 16 Feb 2026 Witham to bid for UK Town of Culture 2028 – residents invited to help shape a multi‑million pound cultural vision Witham Town Council has confirmed that it will submit a bid for the newly launched UK Town of Culture 2028 title. The national programme aims to shine a spotlight on towns across the country, backing ambitious year‑long celebrations of local culture, heritage and creativity. If successful, Witham could secure a significant funding package to deliver a major cultural programme for the town. Shortlisted places are expected to receive development funding to work up detailed plans, with the overall UK Town of Culture 2028 winner set to receive around £3 million , and two further finalist towns expected to receive around £250,000 each. This would represent a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to invest in Witham’s cultural life, people and places. The Council will now begin work on an initial bid that tells Witham’s story, built around a series of themes reflecting the town’s people, places and passions. The proposed programme is expected to include a mix of festivals, community events, arts projects and activities for all ages, with a strong focus on local pride, inclusion and participation. The bid will also look carefully how any funding can leave lasting benefits for the town, from skills and opportunities for young people to stronger community networks and improved public spaces. Residents, community groups and local organisations are being asked to contribute ideas on how potential funding could be invested in the town if the bid is successful. Suggestions could range from new cultural events and trails, to support for local artists and performers, to projects that celebrate Witham’s history, river and green spaces, or create new opportunities for children and young people. Councillor Jack Coleman Chair of Community Committee, said: “Witham has a story worth telling, from our history and river to the many groups, volunteers and creative people who bring the town to life. A Town of Culture bid is a chance to pull those threads together into a clear vision, backed by serious investment. We could unlock substantial funding for new events, projects and spaces that local people have been calling for over many years. We want this to be shaped by residents from the very start, so no idea is too small or too bold. If you care about Witham, this is your invitation to get involved.” Residents can send ideas and comments by email to withamtownofculture@witham.gov.uk . The Council will also be working with local partners, schools, cultural organisations and community groups to develop themes and projects over the coming months. Further updates on the bid and opportunities to get involved will be shared on the Witham Town Council website and social media channels. Previous Next

River Walk WWI Memorial Mural Graffiti < Back Witham Memorial Mural Damaged 8 Apr 2024 River Walk WWI Memorial Mural Graffiti The mural on the River Walk Gauging Station buildings at the weir has been damaged by graffiti twice during the Easter holidays. Witham Town Council's Operations Team have successfully removed some of the graffiti, however there remains significant damage on the rear of the building, which shows a soldier standing in a field of poppies, and so Witham Town Council have approached the original artist to recover the damage. The buildings are painted on all four sides depicting various images of poppies and soldiers to pay tribute to those who fell in the First World War. The mural was created in 2015 by spray can artist Scott Irving of Brave Arts and pupils of New Rickstones Academy. Town council leader Cllr Phil Barlow said 'It's always disappointing that such mindless vandalism takes place anywhere, but this has been a significant piece of artwork on the River Walk for some time. It's also sad to think that someone local would want to deface a remembrance memorial as it costs all of us in undertaking repairs' Once it has been repaired Witham Town Council will look at further ways to protect the mural, including the possibility of extending it's CCTV network to include camera in the area. But the repair and any further steps to protect the artwork will come at a cost. Anyone with any information on the vandalism is urged to contact Essex Police quoting crime reference 42/52960/24 Previous Next

Discover the Magic of Witham Gift Vouchers: A Perfect Present for Every Occasion! < Back Witham Gift Vouchers 8 Aug 2023 Discover the Magic of Witham Gift Vouchers: A Perfect Present for Every Occasion! Are you tired of wandering aimlessly through shops, trying to find the perfect gift? Do you want to support local businesses while giving your loved ones the freedom to choose their own presents? Look no further! Witham Gift Vouchers are here to make your gifting experience seamless and delightful. In this article, we will explore the magic of Witham Gift Vouchers, available at the Witham Information Centre and accepted at 28 fantastic businesses throughout the town. Let's dive in and uncover why these vouchers are the ultimate present for any occasion! The Joy of Gifting with Witham Gift Vouchers Gift-giving should be a joyful experience, and Witham Gift Vouchers excel at making it just that. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion, these vouchers bring a smile to the faces of both the giver and the receiver. Witham Gift Vouchers allow your friends and family to explore the diverse offerings of 28 businesses in the town, ensuring they find something that truly resonates with them. Supporting Local Businesses One of the most significant benefits of choosing Witham Gift Vouchers is the opportunity to support local businesses. By purchasing these vouchers, you are not only giving your loved ones a meaningful present but also investing in the growth and success of the Witham community. Each time a voucher is redeemed at a local business, it contributes to the vibrancy of the town's economy. The Versatility of Witham Gift Vouchers Witham Gift Vouchers offer remarkable versatility, making them suitable for every personality and preference. From local theatre shows to cozy cafes, and from fitness studios to charming gift shops, the 28 participating businesses cater to a wide range of interests. Recipients can indulge in a manicure, enjoy a delicious meal, or shop for unique, locally-made products – the possibilities are endless! Convenience at Your Fingertips Gone are the days of rushing around town to find the perfect gift. Witham Gift Vouchers are conveniently available at the Witham Information Centre, making them easily accessible to everyone. Say goodbye to gift-wrapping stress and long shopping lines; simply purchase the vouchers and let your loved ones explore their favourite spots at their leisure. The Spirit of Community Witham Gift Vouchers not only promote local businesses but also foster a sense of community. As you give these vouchers, you become part of a larger effort to support local entrepreneurs, enhance the town's unique identity, and create a thriving environment for businesses to flourish. Spreading Love and Gratitude Gift-giving is a wonderful way to express love and gratitude. With Witham Gift Vouchers, you can show your appreciation to friends, family, colleagues, or anyone special in your life. Whether it's a small token of thanks or a grand gesture of love, these vouchers carry the sentiment of your affection. Witham Gift Vouchers are a fantastic way to celebrate special occasions while supporting the local community. By purchasing these vouchers at the Witham Information Centre, you encourage your loved ones to explore the best of what the town has to offer. So, the next time you're searching for the perfect gift, look no further than Witham Gift Vouchers. Let's continue to cherish the magic of giving and make every occasion extraordinary with these versatile and thoughtful tokens of appreciation. Spread the word, share the joy, and let's celebrate the enchantment of Witham Gift Vouchers together! (Note: The information in this article is based on the details available on the official Witham Town Council website: https://www.witham.gov.uk/witham-gift-vouchers ) Previous Next

Are you passionate about safeguarding your community and making a positive impact on the lives of others? If so, joining Essex Police as a Community Special Constable might be the perfect opportunity for you! < Back Essex Police Community Special Constables 28 Jul 2023 Are you passionate about safeguarding your community and making a positive impact on the lives of others? If so, joining Essex Police as a Community Special Constable might be the perfect opportunity for you! Become a Community Special Constable with Essex Police and Make a Difference in Your Community Are you passionate about safeguarding your community and making a positive impact on the lives of others? If so, joining Essex Police as a Community Special Constable might be the perfect opportunity for you! In this article, we'll explore the rewarding role of a Community Special Constable and how you can play a pivotal part in ensuring the safety and security of Witham and surrounding areas. Let's delve into the details and discover why this could be the most fulfilling decision you'll ever make. What is a Community Special Constable? A Community Special Constable is a dedicated volunteer who works alongside regular police officers to maintain law and order in local communities. These individuals are committed to making a difference by promoting community safety, assisting in emergencies, and tackling crime issues. By becoming a Community Special Constable, you become an essential link between the police and the public, fostering trust and cooperation. The Role of a Community Special Constable in Witham: As a Community Special Constable in Witham, you'll have the opportunity to engage with the community on a deeper level. Your duties may include patrolling neighbourhoods, attending community events, and providing a visible police presence to deter criminal activities. By building relationships with residents, you'll gain valuable insights into local concerns, ensuring that the police can address specific issues effectively. Why Should You Apply? Making a Positive Impact: Becoming a Community Special Constable allows you to actively contribute to a safer and more cohesive community. By volunteering your time and skills, you can directly influence the lives of your neighbours, friends, and family members, fostering a sense of unity and security. Skill Development: This role offers a unique platform to acquire and enhance various skills, including communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution. As you collaborate with law enforcement professionals, you'll gain invaluable experience and training that can benefit your personal and professional growth. Flexibility: Essex Police recognizes the importance of work-life balance. As a Community Special Constable, you can choose shifts that suit your schedule, making it an ideal opportunity for those with existing commitments or employment. How to Apply: Ready to take on this exciting challenge? Applying to become a Community Special Constable is straightforward. Visit the official Essex Police website: https://www.essex.police.uk/police-forces/essex-police/areas/essex-police/ca/careers/special-constabulary/ or register to attend the Special Constable Recruitment Evening on Wednesday 20th August: https://www.essex.police.uk/police-forces/essex-police/areas/essex-police/ca/careers/recruitment-events-and-workshops/register-to-attend-a-recruitment-event/ Support from Witham Town Council: Witham Town Council is proud that we were the first local council to ‘go live’ with the Community Special Constables Scheme. This was the first such scheme in Essex (and possibly the first of its kind in the country). This was the result of close co-operation between Essex Police and Witham Town Council over a long period of time and sees the Council funding any expenses for our volunteer police officers to be based in the town. Witham Town Council continues to work closely with Essex Police to support Witham’s Community Special Constables. Conclusion: Joining Essex Police as a Community Special Constable is an incredible opportunity to serve your community, develop valuable skills, and be a part of something meaningful. Whether you're a recent graduate, a professional looking for a fulfilling role, or someone dedicated to community welfare, this role offers a chance to make a positive impact and create lasting change. Take that first step today and apply to become a Community Special Constable with Essex Police – your community needs you! 🚓👮♀️ #CommunitySpecialConstable #EssexPolice #WithamSafety Previous Next

Payments over £500 Witham Town Council has a duty to comply with The Local Government Transparency Code 2015 which requires councils to publish information about any expenditure over £500. Payments over £500 April-June 26 PDF Payments over £500 2025-2026 PDF Payments over £500 2024-2025 PDF Payments over £500 2023-2024 PDF Payments over £500 2022-2023 PDF Payments over £500 2021-2022 PDF Payments over £500 2020-2021 PDF Payments over £500 2019-2020 PDF 2018-2019 April 2018 PDF May 2018 PDF June 2018 PDF July 2018 PDF August 2018 PDF Sept 2018 PDF October 2018 PDF Nov 2018 PDF Dec 2018 PDF January 2019 PDF February 2019 PDF March 2019 PDF 2017-2018 April 2017 PDF May 2017 PDF June 2017 PDF July 2017 PDF August 2017 PDF Sept 2017 PDF October 2017 PDF Nov 2017 PDF Dec 2017 PDF January 2018 PDF February 2018 PDF March 2018 PDF Procurement Information

< Back Witham Christmas Fayre Saturday, 21 November 2026 Witham Christmas Fayre is fast becoming a fixture of Witham's Christmas Calendar. Held over the afternoon and evening, we incorporate the Christmas light switch on into the Fayre. The Fayre takes place along Newland Street, Maldon Road, in the Grove Centre and in the United Reformed Church Hall, with entertainment on a stage at the corner of Guithavon Street. This year's event is again sponsored by Holmes & Hills Solicitors and The Grove Shopping Centre. 2025 Photos by David Islip 2024 Photos by David Islip 2023 Photos by David Islip Previous Next

New event for 2026 < Back Witham Open Gardens 2026 29 Jun 2026 New event for 2026 Witham Town Council is delighted with the response to the newly relaunched Witham Open Gardens event, held on Saturday 20 June, which brought visitors into ten local gardens and raised over £1,000 for the Alzheimer’s Society. Residents and visitors alike turned out to enjoy the town’s green spaces, meet garden owners and support an important cause close to many families. From small, wildlife‑friendly plots to larger family gardens and community spaces, each of the ten participating gardens offered something different for visitors to discover. Several hosts offered refreshments, and many gardens featured seating areas where people could pause, chat and take in the planting schemes at a leisurely pace. Locations included private homes, the United Reformed Church garden, Fern House Surgery and St George’s Nursing Home, underlining the range of community spaces involved. The Mayor of Witham, Councillor Paul Heath, commented: “Witham Open Gardens has shown just how much pride our residents take in their town and their outdoor spaces. It was wonderful to see so many people exploring these gardens, talking to one another and helping to raise such an impressive total for the Alzheimer’s Society. I would like to thank every garden owner, volunteer and visitor who played a part in making this new event such a success.” Highlights on the route included tranquil wildlife gardens with ponds and nesting boxes, creative family gardens with play equipment and vegetable beds, and carefully tended borders full of colour and texture. Visitors were also able to see features such as a wormery, art pieces, videos of wildlife, water features and even a circus rig and living wall in development, reflecting the individuality of each garden. Throughout the day, garden owners were on hand to answer questions, share tips and talk about the stories behind their spaces. The event also showcased how gardening supports wellbeing, with Fern Garden Group and St George’s Nursing Home highlighting the role of green spaces in health and residential care settings. Witham Town Council intends to build on this year’s success and is already planning next year’s Open Gardens event. Residents who are interested in opening their garden are invited to contact openspacesadmin@witham.gov.uk to find out more about what is involved. The Council looks forward to welcoming even more gardens and visitors next year and to continuing to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Society through this community‑spirited day. Previous Next

< Back Bramston School Pamphlet Pamphlet Celebrating Fifty Years of The Bramston School This pamphlet was produced to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Bramston School. With an introduction by the then Head Teacher, Mr Wade, the pamphlet includes information on the opening of the school including the layout and the teachers, as well as what it was like as a pupil on that first day. The pamphlet continues with a comparison of each subject in 1937 and 1987 and biographies of some of the longer serving members of staff teaching in 1987. The original Bramston School was built as quadrangle, but additional buildings were added as the local population grew. All of these were demolished in 2011 to make way for the new building that now stands on the Spinks Lane site called Maltings Academy.

Witham Town Council Announces Historic Third Term for Mayor Councillor Paul Heath < Back Latest Witham Mayor Makes History 30 May 2025 Witham Town Council Announces Historic Third Term for Mayor Councillor Paul Heath Witham Town Council is delighted to announce that Councillor Paul Heath has been elected as Town Mayor for the Civic Year 2025-26. This marks a historic occasion, as Councillor Heath becomes the first Mayor in Witham’s history to serve three terms in office. The appointment was made at the Annual Meeting of the Town Council, held on Tuesday 13th May 2025, where Councillor Heath was officially sworn in. Known for his dedication to the town, Councillor Heath is a familiar figure around Witham, often accompanied by his two loyal dogs, Dudley and Arthur. In his acceptance speech, Councillor Heath expressed his deep gratitude to the Council and the community for their support. “It is a tremendous honour to serve as Mayor of Witham for a third time,” he said “Witham is a wonderful town with a strong sense of community, and I look forward to representing and supporting our residents over the next year.” For his mayoral year, Councillor Heath has chosen to support the Alzheimer’s Society as his designated charity. This cause is particularly close to his heart, following the loss of his mother to the disease. He is committed not only to fundraising but also to raising awareness of the charity, ensuring that carers and those affected by Alzheimer’s know where to find support and guidance. The Mayor’s role includes serving as Chairman of the Town Council and as Civic Ambassador for Witham. He will be supported in this role by his Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jack Coleman. The tradition of electing a Town Mayor to represent the interests of Witham is one that is respected by the community. Councillor Heath is available to attend community events throughout the civic year. To invite the Mayor to your event, please contact the Town Council on 01376 520627, email admin@witham.gov.uk , or visit https://www.witham.gov.uk/town-mayor . Witham Town Council congratulates Councillor Paul Heath on his historic third term and looks forward to another year of dedicated service to the town. Photograph taken by David Islip Previous Next