Local Info
Parbold Parish Council Notes
Clerk: E:parboldpc.clerk@yahoo.com
Current Council Members (Feb 2019): Cllr Brian Arnold (Chairman), Cllr Charles Bithell (Vice Chairman), Cllr May Blake, Cllr Denise Butts, Cllr Sarah Carruthers, Cllr Ellis Gill, Cllr Susan Holland, Cllr Justin Stopford, Cllr Robert Long, Cllr Dan McCafferty and Cllr Katie Jukes.
The Parish Council have a website www.parbold-pc.gov.uk/ where agenda, minutes and general information can be seen.
Contact by e-mail: clerk@parbold-pc.gov.uk
Parbold Parish Council Notes – April 2026
Contact by e-mail: clerk@parbold-pc.gov.uk
There have been a number of complaints about parking issues around the village. With a seemingly ever-increasing number of vehicles being parked on a daily basis on the car parks and roads it is becoming a real problem for residents to park safely. The hotspots reported to the Parish Council include the “Residents Only” areas of Beech Avenue, close to the junction with Mill Lane, the village hall and shops car parks and on Lancaster Lane close to the school. There is increasing concern for pedestrian safety along Lancaster Lane at school drop off and collection times, particularly around the entrance to the Convent development. Vehicles are partially blocking the road and pavement in Beech Avenue, which could prevent access for emergency vehicles should the need arise.
The Parish Council are actively pursuing measures to eradicate obstructive parking in these areas and to prevent long term parking on the village hall and shops car parks. Limiting free parking for a certain number of hours may help to free up spaces for visitors to the shops, surgery and village hall. Also, using Council parking wardens for the hotspot areas is also being considered. In the meantime, it is asked that people park considerately, responsible parking may negate the need to consider more stringent and restrictive measures.
Illegal and dangerous parking can be reported to the police on:
https://www.lancashire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/rs/road-safety/making-a-road-traffic-incident-report
You can also report a parking problem to Lancashire County Council via their website www.lancashire.gov.uk.
Thank you to all the residents who contacted the Parish Council regarding the proposal to build a new housing development off Chorley Road. At this stage the developers are just asking for feedback, prior to a possible application. The Parish Council have made a formal response to the developers, outlining and supporting the concerns and objections from the community.
Parbold Parish Council Notes – March 2026
Contact by e-mail: clerk@parbold-pc.gov.uk
You may be aware that the Government is looking at a restructure of local councils. The Local Government Reorganisation consultation is currently ongoing, with options of merging with other borough councils being discussed. These proposals range from a 2 to 5 unitary authority model and are based on delivering value for money whilst still making sure that communities are properly served and listened to. The Parish Council will prepare a response for the deadline of 26th March, and a ministerial decision is expected during the summer, for implementation in 2028. You can learn more on Local Government Reorganisation in Lancashire (https://lancashirelgr.co.uk)
As we move towards spring now is a good time to check that hedges and trees do not encroach over public areas, before the nesting season starts. There are many lovely shrubs and hedges bordering pavements and roads throughout the village, but they can obscure road signs and vehicle sightlines, as well as causing problems for pedestrians.
You may have experienced difficulty in contacting the Parish Council by email, as changes are taking place to bring the website in line with new government regulations. This should be rectified very quickly but, in the meantime, you can contact the Clerk on 07500 557347 if you prefer.
Parbold Parish Council Notes - February 2026
The Parish Council were pleased to once again provide the Christmas tree, and village lights this year and would like to thank Keith Rudd and the volunteers who kindly installed and removed the tree on behalf of the Council. Work is due to begin on clearing the paths around Chapel Meadow of weeds and undergrowth, which has started to affect the path surface.
The Parish Council still regularly receive concerns from residents over issues such as dog fouling, speeding vehicles or inconsiderate parking. The below links make it simpler to report, and this allows targeted action by the appropriate authority:
Road Safety - https://lancsroadsafety.co.uk/speed-concern-options/
Dog Fouling - https://www.westlancs.gov.uk/environmental/dogs/dog-fouling.aspx
Nuisance motorbikes - https://www.lancashire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/asb/asb/antisocialbehaviour/
vehicle-nuisance-involving-cars-bikes-and-mopeds/
Parking – https://www.lancashire.gov.uk/roads-parking-and-travel/parking/report-a-parking -problem/
Litter – https://www.westlancs.gov.uk/environment/keeping-west-lancs-tidy/litter.aspx
Other issues such as blocked drains, potholes and trip hazards can be reported on the Love Clean Streets app or via the LCC website. With regard to dog fouling, the Council dog warden has been contacted to patrol areas of the village in order to help identify irresponsible dog owners who do not clear up after their dog.
There may be some disruption to the Parish Council website whilst it is undergoing necessary maintenance and improvements. This should be resolved soon, and the new website will be fully updated and available.
CVS Funding Advice Service
Our Funding Officer, Vicky Attwood can work with your group – to talk through your project ideas, help you get your paperwork in order (governing documents, policies etc), do a bespoke funding search for your group on our extensive database, and guide you through the application process. Contact Vicky by emailing vicky@wlcvs.org or phone 07598 552 949.
Address: Skelmersdale Ecumenical Centre Northway, Birch Green, Skelmersdale WN8 6PN Phone: 01695 733737 Website: https://www.wlcvs.org/
Lancashire Police
“In The Know” Messaging system offers you the means to receive information from the police and other agencies in the County which suit your preferences for content, locality and means of communication. It is a free service and there are no contracts, costs or obligations of any kind.
How do I get involved?
Registration is quick, simple and completely free
You can register here now by clicking on the link below.
How will I receive messages?
You can elect to receive messages by email, or sms text. Members registered to receive only text messages will still receive important information, but not all messages/warnings circulated on the system.
Can I change my mind?
Of course! If you change your mind, you can unsubscribe at any time. It’s your service, your call.
How about Data Protection?
Your personal details will be securely held under the provisions of the Data Protection Act and only the people you want to see your details can see them. They will never be shared with commercial organisations.
Why should I bother?
By registering on the system you can keep in touch with the things that concern you and your community. We would like you to be informed, involved and “In the Know!”
The alert types that are available for members to sign up to are as follows:
- Business & Retail Crime Alerts
- Caravan & Campsite Crime Alerts
- Hotel Crime Alerts
- Licensed Premises Crime Alerts
- Local Crime Alerts & Policing Activity
- Media Alerts (Missing Persons, Emergencies,etc)
- Rural Crime Alerts (inc. Farm & Equestrian)
- Place Of Worship Crime Alerts
- Neighbourhood Watch News
- Recruitment
- School & College Crime Alerts
- Volunteering & Special Constabulary
- Waterway Crime Alerts (Canals, Rivers, Marinas)
To register:
https://www.stayintheknow.co.uk/
Alcoholics Anonymous
Meetings - Meetings have been running for approx 3 years with a regular attendance of 20/25 people. The only requirement for attendance at meetings is a desire to stop drinking. No appointments necessary. For further information contact Harry Richardson, Mobile: 07528 550054
Thursday - Hilldale Village Hall, Chorley Road, Parbold 6;30-7: 30pm
Saturday - The Hut on-the-Hill Parbold 11am-12noon
Sunday - The Hut-on-the-Hill Parbold 2:30-3:45pm
Alzheimer’s Society Outreach Workers
We can arrange to visit you at home or a venue of your choice and provide information, advice and emotional support. We also provide DROP IN SUPPORT GROUPS where you can meet and share your experiences over a cup of coffee as well as enjoy a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, music, games, guest speakers and much more.
Please note new contact:
Alzheimer's Society Central Lancashire on 01772 788700. Please forward any information to Pam Bolton, email address pam.bolton@alzheimers.org.uk
Drive safely for longer - A free course for drivers aged 65+
This course will help you enhance your practical skills and continue driving safely for as long as possible.
Learn how to stay safe in what is becoming a challenging driving environment. Brush up on your observation skills, be better able to cope with themistakes of other road users and address any driving concerns you may have.
The course will be arranged at a time and place that is convenient for you. the Apporved Driving Instructor will collect you from and return you to your home.
Contact: 01772 536074 Email: www.access@lancashire.gov.uk Web: www.lancashire.gov.uk
Lancashire Community Car Scheme
Operated by Preston Community Transport Ltd. Charity No. 1114100
If you have a car, can spare an hour or so a week and want to assist people in your community, we’d love to hear from you.
Please call Julie on 01772 516208
West Lancashire Carers’ Centre
Certacs House • 10/12 Westgate • Skelmersdale • Lancashire • WN8 8AZ
Tel: 01695 711243 Email: enquiries@westlancscarerscentre.org.uk
website:www.westlancscarerscentre.org.uk
If you are looking after someone at home who needs your help due to disability or illness, make sure you contact your local carers’ centre who will be able to provide you with a range of support and advice, including accessing funding.
If you are able to volunteer for a couple of hours a week to support carers, either at the centre or in people’s own homes, (sitting-in service) then call us. Training and expenses provided.
ONEVOICE westlancs
Welcomes parents/carers of a child with a disability or additional needs (with or without a diagnosis). Drop in to our parent-led, friendly groups to share experiences, information, advice and support . The Grove Children’s Centre, Burscough L40 0RZ 12.30-2.30pm on Thursday 25 April
For further information please contact Victoria on 07423 392694 onevoicewl@hotmail.co.uk
Hoscar WWTW
Following last years petition from Parbold residents demanding action to reduce the odours from the Hoscar treatment works there have been a number of meetings between the various parties and progress has been made.
In order to keep the pressure on United Utilities to invest at Hoscar it is important that residents report each and every occasion they experience sewage smells to the odour hotlines.
WLBC Environmental Health: 01695 577177 or email wwtw.odours@westlancs.gov.uk
United Utilities: 0345 0726 083 office hours and 0345 672 3723 out of office hours
Email United Utilities kcuoperations@uuplc.co.uk
Parbold Parish Council has been working with residents and United Utilities to reduce the odours from the Hoscar treatment plant. In an effort to improve the reporting system United Utilities now have a direct email link which allows them to see every complaint in real time. Could residents use it each and every time they experience offensive odours.
http://unitedutilities.odour.sgizmo.com/s3/
If you want a regular update on progress please email Parbold resident paulquirk@aol.com and he will add you to his mailing list.
Lancashire Fire and Rescue service
Community Fire Safety Practitioner. Telephone 01695 723853 or email shelleygregory@lancsfirerescue.org.uk
Promote Free Home Fire Safety Checks
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service offer free Home Fire Safety Checks to every householder in the county. These checks involve a crew visiting your home and giving fire safety advice, as well as fitting smoke alarms where necessary. Any resident within Lancashire can request one and they are completely free of charge. The Home Fire Safety Checks include:
- Providing and install FREE 10-year smoke alarms where necessary.
- Giving life saving advice in the event of a fire in your home.
- How to make a fire escape plan for you and your family.
- Practical advice on identifying fire hazards in the home.
All Home Fire Safety Checks are carried out by employees of Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service who will show identification when they arrive. To book a free Home Fire Safety Check, please contact us by calling Freephone 0800 169 1125 or visit www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk.
The Community Fire Safety Team are available to deliver Fire Safety advice to groups. If you would like further information or to book this, contact Shelley Gregory at the CFS Team on 07920291869.
Community Fire Safety Practitioner. Telephone 01695 723853 or email shelleygregory@lancsfirerescue.org.uk
Age UK
Have a new handyman initiative. Working with Lancashire County Council it has launched a scheme called HandyVan, aimed at older people in the district. It offers fitted carbon monoxide alarms, door chains, window locks, mortice locks and door viewers.
Dennis Jones, HandyVan man for the district will also undertake small home improvement jobs for the price of the materials.
For more information tel: 01255 473999 or see www.ageuk.org.uk
UpHolland Tawd Vale Lions
UpHolland Tawd Vale Lions are seeking donations of second-hand furniture, household goods, ornaments and toys for resale at their “Lions Den” Charity Shop in Skelmersdale.
Phone Chris Lawn 01257 462283 to arrange collection (Charity No. 1109274)
Douglas Valley Lions Club
LIONS HELPING THE ENVIRONMENT
Douglas Valley Lions Club have signed an agreement with the Canal & River Trust (which was British Waterways and is now a charity) to adopt a 2 mile length of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal.
The agreement is for 12months and Lions members will pick up litter on a length of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal from the Appley Bridge road bridge to the Parbold road bridge.
Lions members will be supplied with High visibility waistcoats, litter pickers and bin bags and they will walk the section at least once a month picking up litter from the bank and reporting any problems.
At the start and finish of the length there will be a notice showing the Lions Logo and information for the public.
As the project becomes established Lions hope to co-operate with Canal & River Trust and local communities on projects such as re-painting railings and fences, etc. making the canal area a better environment for the public with materials and supervision being provided by Canal & River Trust.
Information on volunteering and the Canals in general can be found at:www.canalrivertrust.org.uk or by ringing 03030404040 Douglas Valley Lions can be contacted on 0845 8335739 or at www.lionsmd105.org
ARE YOU IN NEED OF ASSISTANCE WITH THINGS YOU CAN NO LONGER MANAGE?
HAVE YOU HAD AN OPERATION AND ARE TEMPORARILY INCAPACITATED?
DOUGLAS VALLEY LIONS CLUB MEMBERS MAY BE ABLE TO HELP.
IF YOU THINK WE MAY BE ABLE TO HELP PLEASE CONTACT CHRIS ON 463848 OR DAVE ON 462224.
ALL ENQUIRIES WILL BE TREATED IN CONFIDENCE.
WEST LANCS RECYCLING
(Not for profit community interest company)
Based in Skelmersdale - will collect FREE of charge any unwanted, re-usable items of furniture. This will then be made available for sale at their showroom at:
17 Gladden Place, West Gillibrands, Skelmersdale WN8 9SX
OPENING HOURS: Mon - Fri 9 - 4 Saturday 10 - 4
For more information see www.exselcic.com Tel: 01695 557 230
Blood Donors
To book an appointment visit www.blood.co.uk or phone 0300 123 2323
Broadband deals in Parbold.
This comprehensive broadband price comparison service covering the UK’s top providers can help you find the providers available at your postcode: http://www.choose.net/media/