Kate Pritchard

For details of the Planning application for change of use from a pub to residential please see https://planning.lichfielddc.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=documents&keyVal=SNXB49JEKXR00

Details of how to comment on applications can be found here
https://www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/planning/comment-planning-application/8

Lichfield District Council is pleased to announce that the popular LinkUp on-demand bus service has been extended and funded for an additional five months, continuing through to October 2025.
LinkUp has been a lifeline for many rural communities across the district, offering flexible and accessible transport for residents in villages where traditional bus routes are limited or unavailable.
The service enables people to travel to local town centres, medical appointments, workplaces, and other key destinations — supporting independence and reducing social isolation.
Thanks to continued UKSPF funding, the service will now run until the end of October 2025, giving more residents the opportunity to benefit from reliable, responsive transport. Two buses were trialled for a six month period, and the service will continue with one bus to match the demand.
Councillor Janice Silvester-Hall, Cabinet Member for UKSPF at Lichfield District Council, said: “We know how important the LinkUp service is to people living in our rural communities. Extending it means we can continue to support those without access to a car or public transport and help them stay connected to essential services, employment, and social opportunities.
“It’s part of our commitment to improving transport links and reducing social isolation across the district.”
LinkUp operates as an on-demand bus service, meaning users can book their journey via an app or by phone. It’s ideal for shorter local trips and provides an essential link between villages and Lichfield city and Burntwood.
The extension follows strong demand and positive feedback from residents, particularly in areas where traditional bus services have been reduced or withdrawn. Since the service launched, over 250 five-star reviews have been submitted through the booking system.
In addition, nearly 200 users recently took part in a customer survey, offering valuable insights, positive case studies, constructive feedback, and suggestions for new stop locations helping the council better understand how the service is being used and where it could be improved.
For more information on how to use the LinkUp service or to make a booking, visit: LinkUp bus service – Your flexible, on-demand bus service for rural villages

On May 8th Cllr Anthony Mason attended a celebration of 80 years since VE Day at Mary Howard School. A commemorative flag was raised and the children learnt all about the event and its significance.

Please see the link for details of the Open Gardens and Scarecrow event including how to make your scarecrow and the entry form.

Burglars are often opportunistic thieves who prey on houses and flats. They seek out any opening that they can take advantage of, specifically doors and windows that are left open or unlocked or are easy to force. Anything of value that they might spot through a window will only spur them on. But it really doesn’t take much to deter these thieves – just smart thinking.

Burglar facts
Burglars target homes that they think will contain valuables. A sure giveaway is leaving packaging from expensive items outside your front door

Burglars often look for homes with windows or doors left open or with vulnerable features that they can exploit.

Burglars are aware of the times when someone is expected to be away from their house such as during the school run or holidays

Burglars typically do not want to be seen or heard and if they feel that they would be noticed by a neighbour or passerby then they are more likely to feel exposed and may move on to find somewhere else to burgle

Burglars often choose a home because they’ve spotted a specific vehicle, motorcycle or bicycle they want to steal – and the keys are more than likely to be inside the residence

Sheds and garages are often vulnerable as they are not that secure and contain tools which the burglar can use to assist them to gain entry to a home

It’s a fact that many burglars return to homes that they’ve previously burgled because the homeowner failed to upgrade security following the first burglary. They sometimes return to an area to try to burgle a nearby home that they spotted while committing a previous break in. Even more reason for you to ensure you keep your home as safe as houses.

Kind regards,

Davina.

Lichfield District Council is pleased to announce an extension to the operating hours for LinkUp, its on-demand community transport service.
Launched in December 2024 in partnership with transport specialists WeMove, LinkUp is designed to connect villages across the district without existing public transport links to Lichfield city and Burntwood town centres.
Following positive community feedback, from Monday 28 April to Friday 6 June the service will trial running from 8am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday—making it easier for commuters, students and shoppers to access amenities.
The service is £3 per journey, free for children aged 11 and under and concessionary bus pass holders and allows residents to book a ride on the LinkUp app and be picked up from their nearest virtual bus stop.
A spokesperson for Lichfield District Council said: “The response to LinkUp has been encouraging and we are delighted to extend the service hours to offer residents even more flexibility.
“LinkUp is easy to use and whether it’s for work, education, appointments, or meeting up with friends, this extension gives our rural communities greater access to our high streets.
“For many people the service is their only direct link to Lichfield and Burntwood and we’re proud to support them.”

To book a journey:
• Download the LinkUp app on Google Play or the App store
• Or call 0808 134 6632, Monday to Friday, 8am–6pm. Standard call charges apply.
• Whilst you can pay by cash on board, all journeys must be booked in advance. If you want to pay by cash, just select ‘pay on board’ when booking and pay the driver as you board.
LinkUp is a six-month pilot scheme, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
For full information and FAQs please visit linkup.lichfielddc.gov.uk .

Local closures

1. A513 Chetwynd Bridge closure – 13th May 18.45 to 23.45

2. Through Harlaston on 27th May – Road Notice 27_5_25