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96-year-old bowls club receives £500 boost for clubhouse

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We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Martlesham Bowls Club, which has been part of the community since 1928, has received £500 from a local retirement home developer to improve its clubhouse.

Why it matters: The donation from McCarthy Stone will help maintain high standards at the nearly century-old club, ensuring it can continue providing a high standard of experience for members and visitors.

The big picture: Martlesham Bowls Club has been a prominent feature in the community for almost a century, offering an inclusive environment for bowls enthusiasts.

McCarthy Stone provide a helping hand to Martlesham Bowls Club
McCarthy Stone provide a helping hand to Martlesham Bowls ClubMcCarthy Stone

The details:

  • The donation comes from McCarthy Stone, developers of Squadron House on Eagle Way.

  • Funds will be used to redecorate the clubhouse.

  • The club welcomes players of all abilities, from beginners to seasoned professionals.

What they're saying: "Without these kinds of donations, we would struggle to keep our facilities to a high standard – in turn, reducing the quality we offer," says John Anderson, Vice Chairman and Secretary of Martlesham Bowls Club.

"Together with the support of others, we want to continue to provide an inclusive and friendly meeting place for local people to pursue their love of bowls," he adds.

David Meachem, Divisional Sales Director at McCarthy Stone, said: "An important part of what we do here at McCarthy Stone is support local activities and initiatives in the towns and communities in which we build to help create a lasting, positive legacy."

Between the lines: The donation represents part of McCarthy Stone's commitment to creating a positive legacy in communities where they develop properties.

What's next: The club will use the funding to spruce up its clubhouse to enhance the experience for both members and visitors.

The bottom line: Established in 1928, Martlesham Bowls Club has been bringing the community together through sport for nearly a century. This donation will help ensure its clubhouse continues to serve both current members and future generations of bowls players.

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Multiple unitary authorities 'vital' for Suffolk's diverse communities, councils claim

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A joint report from Suffolk's councils argues that the county's mix of rural, coastal, industrial, agricultural and urban areas requires more than one council to effectively serve residents.

Why it matters: The five district and borough councils say a single "mega-council" covering a vast geographical area could not focus on the competing needs of three-quarters of a million people as effectively as multiple unitary authorities.

What's driving the news: Suffolk County Council supports creating a single unitary authority covering the entire county, but this has been unanimously rejected by the five district and borough councils it would replace.

The details: Babergh District Council, East Suffolk Council, Ipswich Borough Council, Mid Suffolk District Council, and West Suffolk Council have each approved the report following a series of meetings where councillors examined and shaped the proposals.

In a joint statement, the council leaders said: "Multiple unitary authorities will produce services designed with residents in mind to meet local needs, drive improved outcomes, create value and save money in a sustainable way."

"Our joint proposal demonstrates that a one-size-fits-all mega authority will not solve the existing issue of large countywide services that will continue to drain money, require improvement, and potentially lead to further cost cutting."

By the numbers: The interim report claims multiple unitary authorities will provide:

  • Cost-effective and high-quality services for Suffolk residents

  • Long-term financial sustainability

  • Economic growth and support to local industry

  • Stronger democratic representation and community engagement

  • Governance systems which can adapt to future growth

  • Structures to support thriving communities and economies

The bigger picture: The councils argue their approach would support "a more balanced solution for the governance of the Mayoral Combined Authority" being set up next year for Norfolk and Suffolk.

What they're saying: "This is a generational change to the way local government and services are delivered and something we should seize," the council leaders stated. "It is a real opportunity to think holistically about how services such as leisure, housing and social care could help residents to thrive."

What's next: The interim report does not constitute a final decision. Councils will have further time to develop options to redesign local government, with community views "at the heart of this work."

The bottom line: "Our collective solution is the best way to deliver great services and value for money. It makes sure the 'local' stays in Local Government for Suffolk," the council leaders concluded.

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