Sandbach Mayor’s Diary – August 2026

By Cllr Sam Corcoran, Sandbach Mayor

Sandbach is a beautiful place. It has the truly historic Saxon Crosses (1,000 years old) in the cobbled market square, lovely parks and play areas, listed buildings, churches and paths constructed by the Sandbach Woodland & Wildlife Group. The SWWG has made a huge difference to Sandbach with some wonderful walks alongside the Arclid Brook. It is amazing how peaceful these walks are, despite being so close to Sandbach town centre. The working groups are a great way to enjoy being out in nature, meet new people and get some physical exercise whether that’s pulling up invasive Himalayan balsam, constructing new paths or heavy work removing fallen trees - and there is always a safety briefing at the start.

As I walk and cycle around Sandbach I am struck by the number of mature trees. Many people will know of my passion for trees; trees absorb carbon dioxide helping to tackle climate change, they reduce the temperature around them helping mitigate the impact of climate change, they provide shade. Access to green spaces helps improve mental health; trees are pleasing to look at. A number of young trees have been planted in public spaces around Sandbach, including some fruit trees by the Mortimer Drive play area. Recently planted trees are vulnerable to drought, so if it hasn’t rained in the last week, please water any newly planted trees near you.

The Summer Reading Challenge is open at Sandbach library, with children challenged to read books and complete tasks over the summer holidays. It is great to see the pride in the children who make it to the end and are awarded a certificate and medal.

I would also like to promote the ‘One You’ service which provides free access to leisure centres during an 8 week programme of tailored support and then a reduced rate membership of Everybody Health & Leisure. The service is designed to take advantage of the huge health benefits of exercise for those with medical conditions. It’s a win for everyone with healthier people, less work for the NHS and reduced pressure on taxpayers. Find out more at www.oneyoucheshireeast.org

Up to the end of June I have attended 20 meetings and events as Mayor of Sandbach, including coffee mornings at St John’s and St Winefride’s, the Day of Dance, Sandbach Choral Society, Sandbach Concert Series, and the Party in the Park. The number of voluntary groups and the breadth of public events in Sandbach is amazing. There are so many good people to meet and thank for all the work they do to make Sandbach such a welcoming and lively place.

Sandbach Town Council 01270 600 800 sandbach.gov.uk info@sandbach.gov.uk