AKG has begun delivering a new phase of the Cannock Chase Discovery Programme, continuing vital work to support residents into learning, employment and better health outcomes across the district.

The programme, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and commissioned by Cannock Chase Council, began its new phase on Monday 14 July 2025 and will run until March 2026. It builds on a successful year of delivery, which saw over 180 residents referred into support, strong cross-sector collaboration and excellent performance across skills, wellbeing and employability.

The Leader of Cannock Chase Council, Tony Johnson, is to step down from the role for health reasons.

Councillor Johnson announced that he will officially resign as leader on Wednesday 24 September.

He will continue in his role as Councillor for the district’s Chadsmoor Ward.

Councillor Johnson, 67, has served as a Labour councillor on Cannock Chase for a combined total of 25 years over two periods. He became council leader in 2023 - having previously held various roles including Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Planning.

Cannock Chase Council has pledged its support for Gas Safety Week (8–14 September 2025) and will be sharing important advice with council tenants and residents to raise awareness about the importance of gas safety.

Gas Safety Week brings organisations across the UK together to highlight the dangers of poorly maintained or badly fitted gas appliances, which can cause leaks, fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. To keep your home safe and your appliances working efficiently, it’s vital they are checked every year by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Cannock Chase Council’s Cabinet has decided not to move forward with the proposed Community Asset Transfer of the Prince of Wales Theatre to Cannock Chase Theatre Trust (CCTT), following a discussion at last night’s meeting.

The decision was based on an independent expert report which concluded that the proposal was not financially viable and did not demonstrate the necessary financial security, operational planning, or delivery capacity required to ensure a sustainable transfer.

Cannock Chase Council is asking for your views on a proposal to remove an air quality management area along the A5 (Watling Street).

Back in 2014, the A5 (Watling Street), between Churchbridge and Brownhills, was declared to be an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA), because of high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2). This gas, which is part of vehicle emissions, can affect our health – especially those with existing lung conditions. The AQMA means that the Council must find ways to improve air quality until it is at an acceptable level.

Cannock Park’s newest attraction has now been officially named following a public competition. After an excellent response from residents, the winning name Barney was selected from numerous creative suggestions, nominated by Beverly Griffin.

The winner received a personalised book cushion with a dinosaur-themed storybook, along with a family ticket to Jurassic Creek Adventure Golf. The official naming ceremony took place on Wednesday 20 August, where the winner’s niece attended on their behalf to receive the prize from the Chairman of the Council.

Cannock Park was buzzing with excitement on Thursday 14 August as over 300 local families celebrated the grand opening of its brand-new play area - a major milestone in a wider transformation of the park.

The modern play space, designed to inspire active, inclusive, and imaginative play, was an instant hit with children and parents alike. On the day, Cannock Police offered free bike marking to help protect local cyclists’ property, while Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles (IHL) brought the fun with a range of activities as part of the Summer SPACE programme.

Independent experts have categorically ruled out a bid by a local group to run the Prince of Wales Theatre in Cannock.

A report into the business plan put forward by Cannock Chase Theatre Trust (CCTT) to run the Prince of Wales Theatre said it lacked “operational detail, audience focus and financial realism” and presented an ambition without ‘viable delivery mechanisms.’

Families are invited to join the celebration as the brand-new Cannock Park Play Area is officially opened this summer.

The official opening event will take place on Thursday 14 August 2025, from 12.30pm to 3.30pm at Cannock Park. The event promises a fun afternoon for families, friends, and children of all ages.

Visitors will be among the first to try out the exciting new play equipment and enjoy a variety of other fun activities happening throughout the afternoon. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic and make the most of the beautiful park setting.

Families and nature lovers turned out in force to enjoy Heath Week 2025, with events across Cannock Chase helping people discover the importance of our local heathlands and woodlands.

One of the highlights was the guided walk through Hednesford Hills on Saturday 2 August, led by Cannock Chase Council’s Ecology Officer. The event attracted an excellent turnout, with people of all ages exploring the unique habitats and learning how they are looked after for future generations.