UPDATED: A petition has now been launched to get the Parish church clock at Culcheth chiming again after it was stopped due to noise complaints.
Local Independent Cllr. Neil Johnson says he is working diligently with the Borough Council and the Parish Church to resolve an impasse over the chiming of the village clock. A petition has now been launched in support of the campaign and signed by more than 400 people within the first 24 hours.
The clock’s quarterly and night-time chimes have stopped following a complaint that they represented a noise nuisance which led to the Council launching a noise complaint investigation. The decision has been met with dismay throughout the village, with many residents viewing the chimes as an important aspect of village life.
Now, Cllr Johnson has provided an update on the situation saying: “For some weeks now, I have been in contact with the Borough Council and representatives from the Church, including the Bell Captain.
“Following a recent complaint, the Church have agreed that the clock will no longer sound during the night, as this can be disturbing to people while they are sleeping. However, the request to turn off the quarterly chimes has become a real “sticking point”. It is understood that this didn’t actually come from the original complainant, which makes it even more of a frustration.
“Therefore, to try and resolve this, the Church have requested a meeting with relevant officers from the Council and myself as the local Independent Councillor. If the original complainant is willing to meet as well, then they would also be welcome to come along. Getting all parties around the table seems to me to be the best and most productive way of reaching an accord.
“The Church are also working on raising a petition to show that there is support locally for the chimes to continue. I understand that this is being set up as we speak. As soon as this petition is “live”, I would encourage all residents to add their signatures and show your support for this important aspect of village life. The more signatures we gather the better.
“The current situation does not affect the ringing of the church bells, which can continue to be rung for weddings, services and other events.
“I will keep all parties apprised of the situation as it develops, but please be assured that I am completely committed to working with everyone involved to get this situation resolved. One way or another, the village clock will chime again!”
To sign the petition CLICK HERE
