AUTUMN 2017 WWW.BASILDON.GOV.UK
BASILDONBOROUGHCOUNCIL
@BASILDONCOUNCIL
BOROUGHDIARY NEWS FROM BASILDON BOROUGH COUNCIL & YOUR COMMUNITY
BASILDON COUNCIL
TO LAUNCH COMMITTEE-TV
BBC, ITV and now committee-TV. It might not have hit shows but the council believes webcasting committee meetings, allowing people to watch proceedings live over the internet, is a demonstration of openness and transparency and offers those who can’t get to meetings the chance to see councillors in action as they make key decisions. Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Basildon Council’s chairman of the policy and resources committee with Olympic gymnast Max Whitlock and other members of South Essex Gymnastics Club, Basildon Council and SLM
TOP GYMNASTS MARK
INVESTMENT AT EVERSLEY Double Olympic gold medallist, Max Whitlock, and members of the South Essex Gymnastics Club joined leading councillor Gavin Callaghan and representatives of SLM (Sports & Leisure Management) at Eversley Leisure Centre to mark an £800k investment including a new gymnastics facility. Plans to develop the main sports hall at Pitsea’s Eversley Leisure Centre and install a full size 3G synthetic turf pitch were approved by Basildon Council’s policy and resources committee. The developments are expected to cost in the region of £800k including a funding contribution of £230k from South Essex Gymnastics Club (SEGC). The new facility is
expected to open next spring and will help tackle a waiting list of about 3,500 residents who want to make use of the club’s popular classes and facilities. Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Basildon Council’s chairman of the policy and resources committee, said: “These developments at Eversley will create opportunities for those who want to take part in gymnastics and other sports locally. It is vital that the council invests in Pitsea, an area with a thriving community and a hotbed for sport in our borough. “Having elite athletes like Max and Brinn Bevan training in the borough can only serve to inspire the next generation. It’s also great that the gymnastics club has
agreed to prioritise membership to local residents which would be a positive step in tackling health inequalities in the area and give young people a real extracurricular activity to engage in in their hometown of Pitsea.” Roy Short, SEGC chairman, said: “The club has worked closely with Basildon Council and listened to the Pitsea community to bring this project to fruition and we are delighted it has been approved. “The move will help address a pressing need to use the club’s facilities for those on our waiting list who are currently having to wait more than two years for a place, and we hope this will be welcome news for them”.
Basildon Council’s Policy and Resources Committee agreed at its meeting on Thursday 7 September to have all committee meetings held in the St George’s Suite, Basildon webcast live. Recordings of the meetings will be available through the council’s website for six months. Councillor Gavin Callaghan, Chairman of Policy and Resources Committee, said: “As a result in the change to the committee system, every single week decisions are being taken in public by councillors at council meetings. These are big and bold decisions that affect your housing, your community and your services. It is important that we do all we can to create new and modern ways for the council to interact with the public. This is a fantastic step to achieving that.” The webcasting system will also allow specific extracts of the meeting, such as particular speech or statement, to be made directly available through social media. New microphones will be needed, though these would have had to be replaced regardless of the new system. The scheme requires an initial investment of £35,000 plus £12,200 a year. This will be offset by savings in discontinuing the current audio recording, which costs £3,900 a year. The additional annual cost will be met from savings made from the adoption of a members’ allowance scheme earlier in the year. To see a calendar of council committee meetings and agenda, please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/meetings
HOUSINGNEWS First new council homes in 25 years...
Clare Kentish Photography
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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
2 BOROUGHDIARY
News
Mayor’s Column
Supporting local causes...
For this issue of the Borough Diary, I want to help raise awareness surrounding child cancers, through the “Be Child Cancer Aware” charity for which I am fundraising. First of all some facts about childhood cancer. • 1 in 300 boys and 1 in 330 girls will be diagnosed with cancer before they reach their 20th birthday • 10 children and teenagers in the UK will have been told today that they have cancer • 4000 children and young people will be diagnosed with cancer in the UK this year • There are 10,000 children and teenagers receiving treatment for cancer in the UK at any given time • 3 out of 10 children will lose their battle with cancer • The cause of most childhood cancers is unknown, and at present childhood cancer cannot be prevented • Most children and teenagers with cancer require rounds of chemotherapy to treat their disease and many require surgery and/or radiation to remove tumour’s, or a bone marrow transplant may be the only hope of survival • The devastating effects of chemotherapy on a child’s body and mind can be permanent and a lot of children will be scarred mentally and physically long after chemotherapy has finished • The government provides no funds towards raising childhood cancer awareness. That is why Be Child Cancer Aware exists, to raise awareness to help parents know the main signs and symptoms all of which can be seen on the website www.bechildcanceraware.org “Be Child Cancer Aware” also provide “Beads of Courage” to youngsters suffering from cancer as they go through the treatment processes. It allows the children to tell their story using colourful beads which are used as meaningful symbols that commemorate different milestones such as blood transfusions, bone marrow transplants, hospital stays, chemotherapy and radiotherapy treatments. A child or young person’s beads build up over time into a unique record of what they have been through. Some days are really tough for these kids. However, the beads are used for encouragement and say to everyone “that was tough…. but….I did it” If you can help me fundraise for this incredible – please contact 01268 206736 or email cllrdavid.harrison@outlook.com
Cllr David Harrison, Mayor of Basildon
AUTUMN 2017
Charity volunteer Stella receives Alf Dove Award
A charity worker who has shown true commitment to Basildon has been handed the Alf Dove Award in recognition of her significant contribution to the wellbeing of the local community. Stella Calkin took on the role of Chair of the borough’s Citizen’s Advice Bureau (CAB) after its three branches – in Basildon, Billericay and Wickford – merged in 2006. She first volunteered for the organisation as a trainee advisor in 1963. Stella, who is now vice chair of the CAB, was also instrumental in setting up Basildon’s first women’s refuge. She was handed Basildon Council’s Alf Dove Award in recognition of her dedication to helping others during a ceremony at the Basildon Centre last month. Stella was at the inaugural meeting of the Basildon, Billericay and Wickford Council for Voluntary Service in 1989 and has been a member of its Executive Committee ever since, currently acting as Chair. She was previously awarded a long service medal in recognition of her work for the Women’s Royal Voluntary Service, which saw her deliver meals on wheels for 22 years. The busy mother of four, grand-
mother of 12 and great-grandmother of nine was also Secretary of the Kingswood Community Association until it closed in 2015. Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison, said: “For the past 54 years Stella has dedicated her life to helping those in need in her community. I first met her over 30 years ago when she was involved in setting up the first women’s refuge in Basildon.” “Stella has a very strong belief that people should be able to access free, impartial advice. She quite rightly thinks that individuals should not suffer through ignorance of their rights, or an inability to effectively express their needs. “She has proven herself to be a model citizen of our borough who has been a big help to so many people. It is only right that she is recognised for her outstanding contribution and I am honoured to present Stella with the Alf Dove Award.” After receiving her award, Stella, said: “It came as a big surprise, because I knew Alf and had heard of the award, it never occurred to me that I might get it because I don’t see that what I do is anything special”. Speaking about what has motivated her to give so much time
to helping others, Stella explained: “I think it’s because of what I’ve seen happening. I was close to a victim of domestic violence, I saw what she suffered and that’s why I set up the women’s refuge. “As far as the CAB is concerned, I saw lots of people having big problems who didn’t know where to turn, didn’t know where to go and the most sensible thing to do was help find them somewhere. I found the CAB and I’ve always loved doing it – it’s so rewarding.” When asked if she will ever retire she said: “Only when the good lord decides that I should.” The Alf Dove Award was established to mark the 43 years of service of Alf Dove and his significant contribution as a councillor when he retired in 1999. The award seeks to recognise significant contributions made by individuals to the wellbeing of the local community.
Stella Calkin with Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison
Carers, trampolinists and homeless to benefit from council grants Three local community groups and charities are to be able to expand their activities thanks to grants from Basildon Council. Policy and Resources Committee agreed on Thursday 7 September to meet requests for funding the Basildon, Billericay and Wickford Council for Voluntary Service (BBWCVS), Action for Family Carers and the Ultima Trampoline Club. BBWCVS, working on behalf of the Homelessness Working Group, will get £2,000 to help extend their current winter night shelter provision from three to five nights a week. The Homelessness Working Group was established in March
2016 and last winter provided emergency shelter for 52 people, as well as services to help people rebuild their lives. Action for Family Carers is a charity that works across Essex to provide carers of people who are ill, disabled, incapacitated or elderly with information, education, respite care, recreation and advocacy. The charity is running a pilot in Basildon and asked for £432 to cover the costs of producing information about the pilot for carers. Ultima Trampoline Club will get £2,000 to help provide heating for the hall they use so that children can continue to train comfortably in the winter and promote increased attendance
over the colder months. Chairman of Policy and Resources Committee Cllr Gavin Callaghan said: “These relatively small sums of money will go a long way to help make a real difference to people’s lives. “Supporting the work of voluntary organisations and small charities in this way can make a significant contribution to strengthening our communities and providing a diverse range of activities and support for those who are often most in need.” The next round of applications for funding of up to £2,000 closes on 27 October. For details go to www.basildon.gov.uk/grants
AUTUMN 2017
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
BOROUGHDIARY 3
News
Breaking down the ‘Change the way you give’ campaign barriers to opportunity launches in Basildon Town Centre A commission of national and regional experts is to recommend ways in which the economic and social benefits of business growth can benefit everyone who lives in the borough. The Breakthrough Basildon Borough Commission will be independent of the council, though supported by it. Over the coming months the commission will engage and involve the people who know Basildon best – its residents, communities and charities. It will be free to make its own investigations, consider the evidence, talk to residents, businesses, schools, colleges and elected representatives. “For too long now, too many people in Basildon have been locked out of the economic opportunities that exist in Basildon,” said Policy and Resources Committee Chairman Cllr Gavin Callaghan. “Young people, in particular, need the support and encouragement they need to raise their
aspirations and develop the right skills to get the good jobs that are on offer in the area and that will be on offer in the future. “While the council has worked hard and had some successes, in particular creating apprenticeships and employability programmes, this continues to be a real problem. “I want us to get to the bottom of why this continues to be the case and work out what more we can do about it.” You can find out more about the Breakthrough Basildon Borough Commission via their website www.breakthrough-basildon-borough.co.uk, follow them on Twitter @breakthroughbas or email info@breakthrough-basildon-borough. co.uk
Basildon Council has teamed up with homelessness charity St Mungo’s to raise awareness about how best to help people sleeping rough. Basildon Council works with St Mungo’s to provide an outreach service to people sleeping rough in the local community. Outreach workers go out and contact people on the streets, talk to them about their situation, their health and other issues, and help them to move off the streets for good. Giving spare change often doesn’t help the underlying causes of homelessness and the council is aiming to encourage people to donate direct to St Mungo’s to help fund their work locally. The “Change the way you give” campaign is also being supported by Basildon Town Centre Management (BTCM) and Eastgate Shopping Centre, and will run from Monday 2 October to Friday 1 December. There are around 17 people sleeping rough in the town
centre and many more, who are not believed to be homeless, using the town centre to beg. Cllr Kerry Smith, Basildon Council’s chairman of the housing and community committee, said: “It’s hard for any of us to say no to someone who asks for some spare change to go towards a bus fare or cup of tea. A couple of pounds doesn’t seem a lot but giving it to those who beg direct can enable and encourage life on the streets. “On some occasions a person who is begging may not even be homeless and for those who are genuinely homeless giving spare change doesn’t help to tackle the underlying issues that are causing their homelessness.” Matt Bawden, Regional Head, St Mungo’s, said: “Rough sleeping is harmful and dangerous and no one should have to sleep rough in this day and age. We live in a generous town and people understandably want to help. “This campaign focuses on getting the right help at the right
time to those who need it most. This could be by encouraging people sleeping rough to contact support services, letting residents know how to refer people they are concerned about and providing an alternative giving option to donating on the street. “If you are concerned about someone sleeping rough and want to connect them to local services, contact via the national referral service www.streetlink. org.uk” The end of the campaign coincides with the start of the Basildon Emergency Night Shelter (BENS) which opens on Saturday 2 December for five nights each week until 31 March 2018. It provides a safe and warm place for people to sleep in over the cold winter months. To find out more about the shelter please email: 3THousingAdvice@basildon. gov.uk If you would like to donate to the campaign visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/basildon-change
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
4 BOROUGHDIARY
News
AUTUMN 2017
Multi-million euro project to boost markets in the borough and beyond
Basildon Council has been awarded a €600,000 share of a project worth approximately €5million that will open up opportunities for market traders to access tailor made business support, fund further promotion of Basildon markets and increase footfall back to our town centres. The council, acting as lead partner of a 16 member partnership, will receive European Regional Development Funding (ERDF) to enhance markets in the borough. Basildon’s role in the project is to lead the partnership (consisting of partners from areas across southern England and northern France) throughout the project’s duration, which is just over three years. The project is called ‘GoTrade’ which stands for Growth of the Visitor Economy through Traditional Markets, Employment and Skills.
GoTrade aims to increase visitor footfall across a number of town centres throughout the partnership geography, by enhancing the visitor experience of traditional street markets. High streets, town centres and local market places in the UK have suffered from declining footfall, as shoppers choose to favour the ease of online shopping. GoTrade will look to reverse this trend by combining local offers in partners’ markets across France and the South of England into a unique brand of markets, targeted at both local residents and tourist visitors. As lead partner, Basildon Council will be responsible for the project management of the partnership and will implement a host of innovative initiatives which will reinforce the council’s commitment to support and invigorate thriving markets in our towns.
Cllr Linda Allport-Hodge, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee, said: “People love markets for so many reasons and this funding is great news for our market traders, residents and visitors to the borough. “Markets contribute towards the economy and provide a sense of community for those that use them. This will help our markets be even more successful. “The funding announcement is just the start, next comes the research to get an insight into markets across the partnership. “This is a great achievement for our Economic Development team to not only secure this funding but to be leading on such an innovative project.”
Panel plans Pathways to Success Councillors have agreed to set up the Basildon Pathways to Success Panel to carry out a review of education and skills provision across the borough. Basildon Council’s Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee agreed the proposals to work alongside Essex County Council, education providers and local businesses to establish whether Basildon has appropriate routes to employment. The Pathways to Success panel will host an Education and Skills Summit in the late autumn to gather evidence and call for ideas from a wide audience. The aim of the panel is to complete a detailed report presenting its findings and set out recommendations as to how Basildon Council and other public sector organisations, education providers and employers can work together to raise skill levels, ambition and opportunities. This will be used to inform development of future council policy and associated allocation of resources. A small working group has been set up to appoint members to the panel alongside Councillor Linda Allport-Hodge, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the infrastructure, growth and development committee. It will include at least one student representative, independent experts, education providers from nursery provision upwards, local businesses and representatives from Basildon Council and
Essex County Council. Cllr Allport-Hodge said: “As a council, we are committed to supporting residents to attain the skills that enable them to access employment opportunities and benefit from the potential economic growth in the borough. “We believe that setting up the Basildon Pathways to Success Panel is the best way to review education and skills provision in the borough, which covers nursery, primary and secondary level through to further and higher education opportunities including apprenticeships. This is about listening to and working with education providers and our local businesses to try to make sure that education provision meets the skills needed for local employment. “It is important that we continue to build on the successful work of the Basildon Excellence Panel, which was able to raise attainment in the borough’s primary schools following an introduction of new ways of working.” The Basildon Excellence Panel, chaired by leading education expert Sir Mike Tomlinson, was set up in 2014 as a partnership between primary schools in Basildon and other organisations and stakeholders to improve educational results. Almost all Basildon schools are now judged as ‘Good’ or ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted.
(L-R)Gunilla Edwards, Basildon Council’s Economic Development Team; market trader Richard Hadley of Goodfiller’s Café & Sandwich Bar; Cllr Linda Allport-Hodge, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee; clothing trader, Richard Robinson from Garm Store and Sam Terrell, Basildon Council’s Economic Development team
Committee agrees timetable to deliver Local Plan The Local Development Scheme update, which sets out the council’s plans and revised timetable for the preparation of the Local Plan has been agreed by committee. Basildon Council’s Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee met on Thursday 14 September to review the timetable which takes into account the detailed plan of works necessary to submit the council’s Local Plan to the Secretary of State in summer 2018. Cllr Linda Allport-Hodge, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Committee, said: “As part of developing
the Local Plan, we need to make sure we have a realistic timetable to deliver a robust Local Plan that is approved by government inspectors. “We want a Local Plan that balances growth with protecting against the negative impact of urban sprawl and defends community spaces.” The Local Development Scheme update will now be put forward to a meeting of Full Council on 12 October 2017. To keep up to date with the progress of the Local Plan please visit www. basildon.gov.uk/localplan
Green light for hospital helipad plans Proposals to create a helipad for use by Basildon Hospital on unused land at Basildon Golf Course have been given the go-ahead. Basildon Council’s planning committee approved an application for a new Essex & Herts Air Ambulance landing base. It will replace the existing informal helipad at the South Essex College site which will no longer be available after October 2017 due to the campus relocating to Basildon town centre.
The land, which is designated green belt and open space, is owned by Basildon Council. It is not currently in use as part of the golf course. The application was granted approval on the condition that permission is limited to a period of five years to ensure it does not prejudice future proposals that may be identified in the Local Plan. This will allow sufficient time for a location for a permanent helipad to be found.
AUTUMN 2017
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
BOROUGHDIARY 5
News
Don’t lose your right to vote Automatic council tax support for disabled people Basildon Council is encouraging residents not to lose their right to vote, by filling out registration forms for the electoral register. Voter registration forms have been dropping through letterboxes across the borough and you are urged to respond as soon as possible, to make sure your voice is heard in the local elections in May 2018. Having the right details on the electoral register isn’t just about being registered to vote, if you aren’t on the electoral register you may find it difficult to get credit for anything from a mobile phone contract; a new sofa; to a mortgage. Registering is easy and you can register online, by Freephone, text or by post. Canvassers will be visiting properties that have not responded between
5 October and 4 November, to get a response and assist people in completing the form where necessary. Each canvasser will have a Basildon Borough Council ID badge for identification. The information you provide will enable us to send a separate individual registration form to determine who is eligible and need to register. Those who are eligible can also register online www.gov.uk/register-to-vote Residents can have their details excluded from the open register. This will mean their details cannot be bought by individuals and commercial organisations. If you haven’t received your form you can contact the Basildon Council’s Electoral registration department, telephone: 01268 207959 or alternatively email: elections@basildon.gov.uk
BUSINESSEVENTS Business Workshop with Pro-actions
Basildon Council is consulting on changes to its council tax support scheme that will mean that any working age household that has a disabled person living in it will automatically get the full 75% support, leaving them with only 25% of their council tax bill to pay themselves. That will mean these households, who tend to be some of the most deprived, will be able to apply via a more streamlined application process. Other proposed changes would bring Basildon’s scheme in line with the changes made by central government in housing benefit and universal credit. “I don’t believe it is right that we put disabled people through a means testing process, when we know they already qualify for a state disability benefit,” said Cllr Callaghan, Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee. “We already know that households with a disabled person are likely to be £500 a month worse off anyway. This increase in support is a way of attempting to help disabled people in Basildon to live more independently. “These proposed changes will make our scheme as fair as possible to all residents and allow us to use our discretionary funds
to support more people who are struggling to meet their housing costs. This is a simple change that makes good economic sense for the council and I hope it will enjoy public support.” The council is required to consult with the public on any changes to the scheme. The consultation started on Monday 18 September and runs until 29 October 2017. To take part please visit www.basildon.gov.uk The committee agreed to consult on the proposed changes, as the council is required to do, at its meeting on Thursday 7 September. The change to the scheme will cost the council an estimated £45,000 on top of the current cost of the whole scheme to the council of £1.9m.
Cllr Callaghan
Do you want to win more business and make 2018 your best year ever?
We are delighted to invite you to a FREE Business Seminar where you will find out where and how you should focus your attention and effort to create sustainable growth within your business. This event will explain the vital elements of effective Business ManageRoom 2, The Basildon Centre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, ment that all businesses should have in place. What works and what Essex, SS14 1DL doesn’t and the increased control you can gain over your business... simply by focusing on doing the right things. Pro-actions Business Briefings are FREE to businesses based in the Most importantly we will show that focusing on key business elements Basildon Borough but spaces are limited, so early booking is advised. will allow you to make informed strategic decisions, resulting in better REGISTER NOW - Register online for Pro-actions workshop: Do you profits and more cash in the bank. want to win more business and make 2018 your best year ever? - Thursday 09 November 2017 from 09:00 to 12:00 to register for The objectives of this seminar are to: the event go to www.basildon.gov.uk/business. • Understand how to position your business for success BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL AND THERE ARE LIMITED PLACES. • Help you understand the key things to focus on to grow DON’T DELAY AND USE THESE THREE HOURS TO MAKE A REAL profitability DIFFERENCE TO YOUR FUTURE. • Introduce you to some best practice processes you will need In order to drive your business forward successfully and profitably it to adopt is vital that you understand the key areas that contribute to business • Understand what steps lead to success success. How your business performs in these key areas will determine • Start to move you outside your comfort zone how quickly you will move forward and how sustainable your growth will be.
Thursday 09 November 2017 9.30am to 12 midday
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
6 BOROUGHDIARY
News
Hovefields planning update Basildon Council has decided against determining a planning application that sought retrospective planning permission for the change of use of land adjacent to ‘Jessomine’ in Hovefields Avenue, Wickford. The land, which is subject to green belt restrictions, has until recently been used as a dog boarding kennels. The application was for nine caravan pitches with associated parking and hardstanding. Two Enforcement Notices were served in March this year to cease the unauthorised use of the site for stationing caravans and for occupants to reside
in them. An appeal has been lodged against one of the notices, which will be decided in due course by the Planning Inspectorate. Under planning law, the local planning authority can choose to decline to determine a retrospective planning application where planning enforcement notices exist. A change in the law allowing this discretion was made in 2011 with the intention of preventing retrospective planning applications from being used to delay enforcement action. For the latest update please visit our dedicated webpage www.basildon. gov.uk/hovefields
All options under review to stop unauthorised encampments In an effort to do all it can to not only deal with unauthorised encampments but to stop them from happening in the first place, Basildon Council has agreed to conduct a review of issues and options for the protection of council owned land. The review was agreed by the Regeneration and Environment Committee. Councillors heard that during the past two years the number of incursions onto council land have increased considerably, with more than 100 from January 2016 to January 2017. The council has spent around £60k dealing with major fly-tipping incidents at unauthorised encampments at Rushley Park, Wat Tyler Way and Basildon Sporting Village among others in the last 12 months. Although additional funds from existing budgets have been earmarked to deal with unauthorised incursions the council has agreed to understanding how the issue might be tackled more proactively – by physically stopping incursions wherever possible. The agreement means the go-ahead to a review of various methods of protection for council
owned land to see if it might be part of a potential solution. Protection methods that could be considered include fences, height barriers, bollards and boulders among others. But although these methods may provide some protection, the review will also consider the unintended consequences of protecting land in this way. These could include simply moving the incursions elsewhere to land that is not protectable or is private. Also, the review will seek to understand how effective current protection measures (where they exist) are. Councillor Alan Ball, Chair of the Regeneration and Environment Committee, said: “I am delighted that the committee have agreed to undertake this very necessary review. We take these incursions incredibly seriously and have to look at all possible options for ensuring that the lives of our residents are not blighted by unauthorised encampments. “We need a thorough and balanced review on how we might stop these encampments from setting up in the first place, rather than dealing with them after the event.”
AUTUMN 2017
Planning inquiry concludes in relation to enforcement notices at Silva Lodge Kennels A planning inquiry concluded on Friday 8 September, in relation to enforcement notices issued concerning land at Silva Lodge Kennels, in Hovefields Avenue, Wickford. Thomas Anderson was appealing against enforcement notices issued by Basildon Council in September 2016 after the site in the green belt was developed without planning permission.
The inquiry took place over four days at the Green Centre at Wat Tyler Country Park in Pitsea. The Inspector, having formally visited the site and now having heard all the evidence ,will now write a decision letter which should be issued by the beginning of November.
Council meets with residents association and MP over planning breaches at Hovefields Basildon councillors and officers met last month with representatives from the Hovefields Residents Association and Mark Francois MP to discuss the council’s ongoing enforcement actions against unauthorised developments in the Hovefields Avenue/Drive area. Following the meeting, Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee, said: “I would like to thank the residents association and Mark Francois for coming to talk to us.
“This meeting was an opportunity for the residents to have their questions answered by councillors and senior officers over the continued action the council is taking, both in and out of court - to stop unauthorised development. “I think it is fair to say that it was a good and robust exchange but I hope it reassured the residents that this administration will do everything possible to ensure that all available legal powers are brought to bear to tackle the problems.”
AUTUMN 2017
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
BOROUGHDIARY 7
Education
• Learn about apprenticeships and vocational training • Meet with colleges, training providers, apprentices, sixth forms and local companies for advice about your future • Learn why Basildon is a great place to have a career • Learn how to become your own boss • Doors open at 4pm until 7pm. You will have the opportunity throughout the evening to tour a range of stands from colleges, training providers, sixth forms and companies • Learn about the Seven Growth Sectors across Essex • Parent workshops to learn more about Apprenticeships and where they can lead to. In today’s competitive environment, it is more important than ever that you understand the exciting options available to you. The Your Future 2017 Parents’ Evening is free, and pre-registration is not required. This event is supported by Essex Employment and Skills Board.
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
8 BOROUGHDIARY
Business BASILDON FOR BUSINESS
AUTUMN 2017
BASILDON BUSINESS EXPO 2017
Join us for the inaugural Business Expo - a platform for local businesses to showcase what they do, share local success and celebrate what it is to be based and do business in Basildon.
WEDNESDAY 22 NOVEMBER, 10AM - 3PM WAT TYLER COUNTRY PARK, PITSEA Over 40 business exhibition stands Free parking Free visitor entry Free business networking The Expo will bring together business support providers who can offer you a wealth of advice, information and commercial opportunities to help your business develop and grow.
Economic Tea Debate
3.30PM - 5PM
The day will conclude with an opportunity to hear from and engage with a panel of inspirational keynote speakers, featuring: Christian Brodie - Chair of SELEP Jane Gardener - Deputy Police & Crime Commissioner Julian Drury - MD Trenitalia c2c Linda Allport-Hodge - Chairman of the Infrastructure, Growth & Development Committee, Basildon Borough Council This event is free to attend, additional booking required.
For more information and to book, visit:
www.basildonbusinessexpo.co.uk In partnership with
AUTUMN 2017
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
BOROUGHDIARY 9
HOUSINGNEWS Autumn 2017
CONSTRUCTION ON FIRST NEW COUNCIL
HOMES IN 25 YEARS GET UNDERWAY Construction work is well underway on the first homes to be built by Basildon Council in 25 years. Councillor Kerry Smith, chairman of the housing and community committee, recently visited the redevelopment at Victoria Road, Laindon, together with policy and resources committee chairman, Cllr Gavin Callaghan, to mark the milestone and the first of 584 houses planned to be built in the next five years. They observed the progress being made on the four, two-bedroom homes, which are expected to be ready early in the New Year and will replace a former garage site. Victoria Road is one of three sites which will provide a total of 11 much needed homes for families who are on the council’s homeseeker register. Cllr Smith, said: “These new homes are part of the council’s ambitious new homes pipeline that will provide a balanced mix
of housing in order to meet the housing needs of local people. “These sites provide an ideal opportunity to transform under occupied garage sites that can be a magnet for flytipping and anti-social behaviour into high quality homes.” Cllr Gavin Callaghan, added: “This shows the council is serious about building council housing and ensuring we provide high quality homes for people in our borough. “We want to ensure we have properties that meet the need of residents from our housing register. Additionally, through Sempra Homes, we want to support borough key workers to get a first step onto the housing ladder and we also want to ensure we retain young people who might have otherwise had to look for homes outside the borough. This is just the beginning in an aggressive new strategy for council house building in Basildon.”
Mark Davison (Indecon), Joe Stanhope (Basildon Council development support officer), Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Mandie Skeat (Basildon Council’s head of housing and community services), Louise Humby (Basildon Council project manager), Cllr Kerry Smith, Nicholas Hall (Indecon)
Sempra homes that will be available for shared ownership are: Four-bedroom home, St Nicholas Mews, Ballards Walk development (available now) Four two-bedroom houses, St Nicholas Mews, Ballards Walk development (available Dec 2017) Six two-bed shared ownership houses, Roman Way Billericay (available 2018) Nine one and two-bed homes, Pound Lane, Laindon (available 2018) 20 two-bedroom apartments at Long Lynderswood, Basildon (available Sept 2018 with options to purchase off plan before this date) Three two-bedroom homes, Rayside East, Basildon
KEY WORKERS PRIORITISED FOR NEW HOUSING
As part of the delivery programme, the council, through Sempra Homes, will give priority to Basildon’s key workers who wish to purchase one of Sempra’s new shared ownership homes. Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Basildon Council’s chairman of the policy and resources committee, said: “Sempra Homes was established to deliver a range of new homes across the borough and I am delighted that they are delivering schemes to local key workers and residents through their shared ownership programme.” Melanie Keys, manager of Sempra Homes: said: “Shared ownership provides an opportunity for residents to purchase a share in a home where outright purchase is not affordable and pay affordable rent on the rest, with an option to buy further shares in the future and eventually own 100%..” “Through our shared ownership programme we are working alongside the Government’s Help to Buy scheme, enabling residents to purchase an initial
25% share of their home.” Applicants will need to satisfy the Government’s Help to Buy criteria for shared ownership.
MAKING THE BEST USE OF UNDERUSED SPACES
The majority of the new homes programme will see quality homes built on underused sites across the borough, providing much needed housing for residents. Three homes at Rayside East, Basildon, will replace 36 garages, 34 of which were not in use. Cllr Andrew Gordon, Basildon Council’s vice chairman of the housing and community committee, said: “The council is committed to redeveloping underused parcels of land which will help reduce crime and anti-social behaviour and revive areas at risk of falling into disrepair.” Find out more about Sempra Homes at www.semprahomes.co.uk or follow Sempra on Twitter @SempraHomes Find out more about Sempra Homes at www.semprahomes.co.uk or follow Sempra on Twitter @SempraHomes
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
10 BOROUGHDIARY
SAFETY AROUND THE HOME Is your garden wall safe?
Over the next year we will be running a series of articles in the Borough Diary highlighting some handy tips on safety around the home. We will focus on a number of subjects including gas safety, fire safety, electrical safety, energy efficiency, slips, trips and falls and asbestos in the home. With autumn upon us many residents will find themselves spending time in the garden preparing for the winter and clearing fallen leaves. Why not take this opportunity to ensure your garden and boundary walls are safe. It is important to inspect garden and boundary walls
WALL SAFETY CHECKLIST: Is the surface of the brickwork crumbling away? If restricted to a few bricks this may not be serious but walls can be weakened by general crumbling across either wall face. Is the mortar pointing in good condition? If the hard surface layer can be picked out from the joint, or if the mortar can easily be scraped out with a door key, then this is a good indication that the wall may need repointing. Is there a tree near the wall? As trees mature, there is a risk of the wall being damaged by the roots, and from wind-blown branches. Damaged sections may have to be re-built, perhaps with bridges incorporated to carry the wall over the roots. Removal of large trees can also lead to prob-
from time to time to see if any repairs are necessary, or whether a wall needs rebuilding. Maintaining garden and boundary walls is the responsibility of the homeowner and failing to do so could result in the council taking action against you to rebuild the wall. You could also face prosecution and suffer significant financial loss should the wall collapse and injure someone or cause damage to adjacent property. Cllr Kerry Smith, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Housing and Community Committee, said: “It is vitally important that residents check garden and boundary walls and ensure they are maintained to a safe standard to avoid unnecessary accidents. “There are a number of simple checks that can be carried out including checking the surface of the brick-
lems because the soil accumulates more moisture and expands. Is the wall upright? Walls lean for a variety of reasons, due for example to failure below ground caused by tree roots, a cracked drain, frost damage to the foundations or inadequate foundations. If the wall leans to an extent that could present a danger e.g. more than 30mm (half brick wall), 70mm (single brick wall) or 100mm (brick and a half wall). Checking of the wall foundations may be required by an expert Is the wall thick enough for its height? A wall must have adequate support across its entire length to ensure stability. Seek advice if you have concerns that your wall is not adequately supported. Some climbing plants, like ivy, can damage walls if growth is unchecked.
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work and mortar pointing for crumbling and degradation, major cracking and the walls leaning over. I would urge all residents to carry out such checks. I would also urge residents who are concerned about the stability of a wall that doesn’t belong to them to report this to the council.” Maintaining garden and boundary walls is the responsibility of the homeowner. If you are a leaseholder the council’s advice is to contact your landlord with any concerns. For further advice, please contact the council’s customer service centre on 01268 533333. Please press Option 1. If you are a Council tenant, then please press Option 2.
Consider cutting them back and supporting regrowth clear of the wall. Is the top of the wall firmly attached? Brick cappings or concrete copings may be loose or there may be horizontal cracks (frost damage) in the brickwork a few courses down. Loose or damaged masonry near the top of the wall will need to be rebuilt. Has the wall been damaged by traffic? Minor scratch marks or scoring of the surface may obscure more significant cracks. Piers at vehicular entrances may have been dislodged by impact and be unsafe; in such cases they should be rebuilt. Are there any cracks in the wall? Hairline cracks (0-2mm across) are common in walls and do not in themselves indicate serious
problems. Wider cracks may indicate a need for partial or complete rebuilding. Seek advice on any vertical cracks which pass right through a wall or any cracks close to piers or gates. Repointing of cracks can lead to problems. Do not repoint without establishing the cause of the cracking.
Sempra Homes shortlisted for top industry award Advice on avoiding long A Basildon house building company has been shortlisted at this year’s Inside Housing Development Awards. Sempra Homes, which was set up by Basildon Council as an independent company, entered its development of 20 two-bedroom apartments on the former Space site in Long Lynderswood, Basildon, in the “best shared ownership scheme” category. Judges will be looking at how developers have structured the development, how the offer meets the needs for shared owners and how the development creates a desirable place to live; as well as location and infrastructure considerations. Cllr Kerry Smith, Basildon Council’s chairman of the housing and community committee, said: “Congratulations to Sempra Homes on being shortlisted
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for this prestigious award. “This development will help meet the housing needs of the borough while bringing an underused piece of land just minutes from the town centre back into use. “Basildon Council is committed to helping to expand the availability of homes for the borough’s residents.” Melanie Keys, manager of Sempra Homes, added: “I am absolutely delighted that Sempra has been shortlisted as finalists for the Inside Housing’s Best Shared Ownership Scheme award. It reflects the hard work and commitment of the entire team.” Following the approval of planning permission earlier this year the homes on the site of a disused youth centre will be built along with car and cycle parking and associated landscaping.
There will be 33 parking spaces provided alongside the development, including 20 for residents and 13 for visitors. The site has been vacant since the youth centre closed in 2013. The awards ceremony will be held in London on November 23. For further information about Sempra Homes, visit the website www.semprahomes.co.uk
‘Call Waiting’ times
Did you know we receive over 8,000 repair calls a month which averages nearly 400 calls a day. The busiest time to call is always from 9am to 11am with Monday mornings being particularly busy. We understand that some tenants may be experiencing longer than usual call waiting times when ringing in to report a repair. We want to reassure all tenants and leaseholders we are looking to make several improvements to the reporting processes that will hopefully address this problem but in the meantime, your call is likely to be dealt with quicker if you call outside of peak times. Unless your call is for an emergency repair, try to avoid calling Monday mornings and from 9am to 11am. The lowest call volumes are usually from 1pm to 2pm.
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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
BOROUGHDIARY 11
Career change at any age Following a successful six week training programme with BasWorx between April and June this year, four mature apprentices have been taken on for 12 months. Each of the four will be delivering work with the support of the BasWorx Supervisor alongside council contractor, Morgan Sindall Property Services, and will work towards completion of a Level 2 painting and decorating apprenticeship which will see them become qualified within a year. The six week BasWorx Work Academy programme included one week of classroom based health and safety training, one week painting and decorating training followed by work experience. BasWorx is a social enterprise scheme being delivered by Morgan Sindall Property Services in partnership with Basildon Council. The ground-breaking training programme gives trainees a foot in the door of the construction industry. The programme combines education with hands-on work experience, bridging the gap between education and employment by directly providing people with the skills that employers in the property and construction industry are looking for. Trainees will learn technical skills, workplace behaviours and get access to training opportunities in vocational subjects like Maths and English.
Case Studies Paul Ebury, 33, from Laindon Before BasWorx Paul had been unemployed for four months after the groundwork he was doing through an agency dried up. Prior to this he has been unemployed on and off and was frustrated with inconsistent agency roles. His job coach informed him about the BasWorx opportunity. He said: “I’m dyslexic so I struggle with the classroom side, but I really enjoy the practical side and working with my hands to get the job done. “It’s been a great laugh working with the team I’ve learned quite a bit from the teachers and supervisors including some handy tips. Some of the stuff I already knew but it was a good refresher. “I didn’t want to go back to agency work, they would always promise you the next job was lined up but there would always be long gaps in between. I wanted something more stable.”
Derrick Campbell, 54, from Basildon Derrick, who is originally from Walthamstow and
moved to Basildon six years ago to be closer to his step daughter and grandchildren, enjoys family life and spends his spare time exercising with a particular interest in running. He was unemployed for seven months before he enrolled with BasWorx. His previous roles included security work and part-time cleaning at Aldi. He found the biggest challenge in finding a new job was his lack of relevant qualifications. He mentioned to his job coach at the job centre that he was interested in getting a CSCS card and learning construction skills; this is when he was referred to the BasWorx ‘Work to Learn’ programme. Derrick, who had never done any painting and decorating work before, said: “I never thought I’d be able to get into the industry without going back to college, so this was a good opportunity and stepping stone to see if it is something I want to do.”
Chris Gloster, 46, from Laindon
Trevor has always been in employment and spent the last 30 years working in global logistics as a senior manager. He has gained broad experience ranging from sales and commercial to business development. His most recent role was based at Tilbury Port working long hours and being on call to resolve problems and deal with overseas clients. He was made redundant in February and had been considering a career change. The late working and irregular hours in his previous roles had started to affect his health so Trevor is now appreciating the opportunity to work normal hours and to spend time with his family. Trevor said he has found the team spirit and camaraderie “brilliant” and has laughed more with the team than he has in years. His goal is to upskill in the trade and make use of his existing managerial skills set where possible. To find out more email: amy.ross@morgansindall.com
Chris has been a Basildon resident since he was 26. He worked as a Warehouse Manager for over 20 years, but was made redundant in August 2016. This was the first time he had found himself unemployed and he was job hunting for around nine months before the BasWorx opportunity arose. He had applied for 353 jobs with only one of these progressing to the interview stage. Chris has a family including a partner and four children at home to support between the ages of four and 13. Chris said: “It’s been really good for my confidence and self-worth; even my partner noticed a big change in me. It wasn’t good for me being stuck indoors applying for jobs for hours a day. “I’ve really enjoyed the camaraderie. This programme has brought people together from different walks of life. “I’m starting from nothing, no-one can survive on £101 a fortnight and this is the lowest I’ve ever been now. “I like a challenge and want to see what I can achieve. Hopefully there will be the opportunity to make use of my management skills here too. “It’s good to find a training course like this which provides genuine opportunities for people and it has certainly boosted my confidence”.
Trevor Kay, 52, Stanford-le-Hope Trevor lives just outside the borough in Stanford-leHope and has lived there his whole life where he lived with his wife and 23-year-old son.
Derrick Campbell, Trevor Kay, Paul Ebury and Chris Gloster
Get involved in your housing services A refreshed Resident Compact has been endorsed by the Tenant and Leaseholder Panel. The Resident Compact is a document which sets out the way that the council works with tenants and leaseholders to ensure that they have a say on how the council runs its housing services. The new arrangements provide a range of opportunities for tenants and leaseholders to get involved with a number of panels,
groups and forums, specifically set up to monitor a variety of housing services. The new arrangements include opportunities to influence and comment upon the repairs service, the aids, adaptations and voids service, overseeing the cleansing contract, the sheltered housing service and services to leaseholders. Tenants and leaseholders provide a valuable insight into how services are received and it is this input that enables the coun-
cil to develop and improve the services it delivers. Comments and feedback about the services the council provides are welcomed and the council is always looking for new people who would like to become more involved by becoming a Tenant and Leaseholder Representative. It is this group of people that make up the membership of the panels, groups and forums, together with council officers.
Over the coming months, the council will be seeking more people to become members of the panels, groups and forums. If you would like to have a copy of the new Resident Compact document or are interested in becoming a Tenant and Leaseholder Representative, please contact the Community Involvement Team on 01268 208224, or via e-mail at communityinvolvement@basildon.gov.uk
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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
12 BOROUGHDIARY
AUTUMN 2017
Blooming great work from Firm approach to tackle sheltered housing tenants anti-social behaviour in SHELTERED housing tenants across the borough showed off their creative skills as they got to work hanging baskets, planting window boxes and growing vegetables for this year’s Garden in Bloom competition. There were five categories for residents to get their spades ready for – including best communal garden, individual garden, balconies and vegetable garden. For the first time there was also a most unusual planter title up for grabs. The Garden in Bloom 2017 competition, sponsored by the Alton Garden Centre, also saw the introduction of an overall winner. Richard Holland took home the cup for his transformation of his garden. Mr Holland also won first place in the individual garden category. Cllr Kerry Smith, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the housing and community committee, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone who took part in this year’s Garden in Bloom competition. The judges certainly faced a difficult job deciding who to crown as our winners. “This competition is a brilliant way of bringing our sheltered housing tenants together and it is great to see them taking so much pride in their gardens. Our borough is certainly blooming at the moment!” The annual contest is open to anyone living in one of Basildon Council’s sheltered housing schemes. Judging took place on Friday 21 July with winners receiving their certificate during a ceremony on Friday 25 August. They are:
Brooke House
Individual garden First – Richard Holland, Second – Brian Johnson, Third – Mr and Mrs Livermore, Balconies First – Annie Cater Second – Paul Thorpe Third – Hazel Davis Vegetable garden First – Afflets Court Garden Club Second – Elsie French Third – Sandra Batrum Communal garden First – Peter Noe and Brian Johnson Second – Bill Kneller Third – Alan Daines Most unusual planter First – Jean Norton and Carole Petts Second – Residents of Bartlow Side Third – Sandra Batrum
This year’s Gardens in Bloom winners with Basildon Council’s head of housing and community services, Mandie Skeat (second from right)
Basildon Council has obtained a Closure Order on a flat which has been at the centre of anti-social behaviour, nuisance and drug use. Officers from the council’s anti-social behaviour (ASB) team, Essex Police, the landlord and residents worked together to obtain the Closure Order on the privately-owned one-bedroom property at 3 Brooke House, in Town Square, Basildon. The property has been closed since 10 August and will remain so for three months. Following this period the council will pursue possession of the property. Cllr Andrew Gordon, vice committee chairman for housing and community services, said: “A Closure Order is an extreme measure put in place to significantly disrupt ongoing anti-social behaviour with the ultimate aim of restoring the quality of life for the local community who have been suffering significant problems
generated from these premises for many months. “Anti-social behaviour cases can be some of the most difficult to resolve and I would like to thank the council’s anti-social behaviour team for working hard to resolve this issue for the local community. Our council staff were also supported by Essex Police in taking robust action against the tenant involved and my thanks extends to them also. “Basildon Council will continue to take assertive action against perpetrators of anti-social behaviour who fail to engage with us and we will take whatever action we can within our legal framework to deal with anti-social behaviour in the borough.” Neighbours who are concerned or want to give information anonymously can do so by contacting the council’s ASB team. Call 01268 533333 and follow the instructions for the ASB team.
Up to £2,000 available for voluntary and community groups Voluntary and community groups can still make their bid for a grant of up to £2,000 to help fund their projects. Basildon Council’s Grants to Organisations scheme handed out nearly £20,000 in funding last year to vital projects across the borough. Money is available in the second funding round for organisations who need financial support. Cllr Kerry Smith said “The Grants to Organisations fund has had a huge impact on community groups across the borough. I would like to make sure that every voluntary and community sector organisation in Basildon has a chance to gain some of this vital money.” In 2016/17, 12 organisations received a combined £19,302 from the fund. This included South Green War Memorial Society, who were awarded £2,000 for its project to fix a leaky hall roof. Their committee chairman Joan Miles, said “Receiving a grant of £2,000 from Basildon Council,
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together with other funders, has enabled us to completely renew the roof of our village hall, providing a facility for future generations of hall users”. Kingston Ridge Scout Campsite also received a grant of £2,000 to refurbish their campfire circle and improve access for people with disabilities. Ann Allen, Fundraising Secretary, said “The grant has made an incredible difference to our campsite users, without the grant we would still be without anything to sit on!” The deadline for applications for the current round is 5.15pm on Friday, 27 October. However, the fund is open in one further round later in the year. Visit http://www.basildon.gov.uk/ grants to learn more about the criteria for the scheme and to download application forms. Alternatively, potential applicants can discuss their project with the council’s Voluntary Sector Development Officer by calling 01268 208151.
Autumn 2017
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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
BOROUGHDIARY13
Community Safety Halloween/Firework Crime Prevention Tips
Domestic Abuse Awareness Week
Autumn is upon us and as the darker nights draw in important dates such as Halloween and Fireworks Night are approaching. Basildon Community Safety Partnership wants to remind residents to have fun but be safe. Following these simple tips can ensure your celebrations don’t turn scary and go up in smoke: Halloween: • Remember Halloween can be a very unsettling time for some people, so please consider whose house you knock on this year as it may belong to someone vulnerable • Don’t enter houses of people you don’t know • Ensure that an adult is supervising children at all times • Avoid any sweets that have loose wrappings or are unwrapped • Don’t carry fake weapons or similar accessories that look authentic. Make sure they’re flexible and cannot harm anyone Firework Night: • Consider your neighbours, always inform them if you are going to be letting off fireworks • Remember for those with pets, the loud noise can be very unsettling and frightening • Be considerate - do not let fireworks off late at night • Consider attending an organised firework display instead – they are always safer than a firework display in your back garden Remember you can report any suspicious or criminal activity to Essex Police via 101 (or 999 in an emergency) To download a poster to display if you don’t want Trick or Treaters knocking on Halloween please visit: www.essex. police.uk/halloween
November marks National Domestic Abuse Awareness Week. Across the county, local areas carry out activity to raise awareness and promote local services that are available. Basildon CSP are in the throes of organising an annual event that will take place during the annual awareness week.
Locally we are also supporting the Crimestoppers campaign. Launched in Essex in August. The programme has been developed in conjunction with NHS practitioner groups in Essex. The first round has been launched with dentists, opticians and pharmacies with a second round anticipated for GPs. The aim of the programme is to encourage those who work in the fields outlined above to use a method known as AVDR – ASK, VALIDATE, DOCUMENT, REPORT/REFER to start a conversation about Domestic Abuse. The aim is to give health teams the confidence and tools to approach this difficult issue with patients and encourage the patient to seek help. There are a number of organisations and services available in Basildon to help support victims of Domestic Abuse:
Safer Places
Safer Places is an independent charity which provides a comprehensive range of services to adults and children affected by domestic and sexual abuse who live in west Essex, mid Essex, north and east Hertfordshire and Southend. Call today on 03301 025811. Experts are available 24/7 and will be happy to help you. Or email: info@saferplaces.co.uk
Changing Pathways
Changing Pathways (formerly known as Basildon Women’s Aid) is a domestic abuse charity working across the areas of Basildon, Brentwood, Castle Point, Rochford and Thurrock. They provide free and confidential services to support people who are currently experiencing, or have previously experienced domestic abuse. Website: changingpathways.org Advice Line: 01268 729 707 Email: referrals@changingpathways.org Remember everyone has arguments, and everyone disagrees with their partners, family members and others close to them from time to time. And we all do things at times that we regret, and which cause unhappiness to those we care about. But if this begins to form a consistent pattern, then it is an indication of domestic violence and abuse.
BASILDON COMMUNITY
SAFETY PARTNERSHIP
Gangs Case Management Framework Launch As part of the priority to address Gangs and Serious Organised Crime the CSP launched a new Gangs Case Management Framework at a well-attended event at Wat Tyler County Park on Wednesday 13 September. Being led by Essex Youth Offending Service the framework aims to provide professionals with a tool to identify when a young person could be at risk or already on the periphery of gang involvement, taking into consideration key areas such as child development, parenting capacity, family and environment and protective factors already in place. Through the completion of the toolkit
young people who are identified as a high risk will be discussed at monthly case management meetings with the consent of parents. As a collective partners will consider each case and work to develop an action plan around the young person to try and divert their path and support them in making better choices going forward. Basildon has been selected as the initial pilot for the approach having developed and begun implementing the toolkit locally from January 2017. It is anticipated the Youth Offending Service will then lead on expanding and embedding the approach across the County.
Representatives from Basildon Community Safety Partnership, Essex Youth Offending Service and Essex Police at the launch event
Risky Behaviour Sessions For the third consecutive year information sessions were delivered to parents, carers and professionals providing important knowledge on how to safeguard young people from risks associated with online safety, gangs and exploitation. Held in Basildon and Wickford the sessions were delivered by fantastic speakers from local companies EST E-Safety Training and Reach Every Generation. The presentations gave a real insight into the very real risks young people face in their everyday life, how easily they can be exploited and most importantly how adults can recognise the risks and talk to young people to help keep them safe. The online safety presentation explained how popular online games and apps are used to groom young people and build a relationship with them for the intention of sexual exploitation. It was highlighted that whilst it may seem the best option trying to prevent a young person from using the internet will most likely encourage them to access it without your knowledge meaning they would be less likely to talk if
they find themselves in an uncomfortable and potentially dangerous situation. Instead useful tips were shared on how to explore the online world together with your child and measures you can put in place to help keep them safe. The gang presentation gave an overview of how a gang targets a young person who they identify as being vulnerable or who they would be more likely to be successful in befriending. Delivered from a real life perspective by a former gang member it provided a hard hitting account of what life is like in a gang and how it can affect a young person for the rest of their life.
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SAFETY PARTNERSHIP ON TWITTER @BasildonCSP
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
14 BOROUGHDIARY
Community Together for Safer Communities meetings put crime on the agenda Basildon Borough Council has held the first ‘Together for Safer Communities’ public meetings in an effort to provide community reassurance and promote crime prevention advice and materials. The ‘Together for Safer Communities’ meetings are led by Cllr Kerry Smith, Chairman of the Housing and Community Committee and the first meetings were held in Nethermayne and Lee Chapel North last month. The meetings aim to give residents the opportunity to discuss their community safety issues and concerns with their local Ward, county and parish councillors as well as pick up free crime prevention materials like property and bike marking kits, vehicle crime packs, number plate screws, personal alarms, credit card defenders, purse dipping bells and ‘No Cold Calling’ stickers. Essex Watch and Neighbourhood
Watch will be present at the meetings to encourage residents to become involved in their local groups and other such schemes. Where Essex Police are represented they will give members of the public a brief overview of crime and anti-social behaviour and provide the opportunity to discuss local issues and concerns. Cllr Kerry Smith, Chairman of the Housing and Community Committee, said: “Earlier this year, I arranged a public meeting to hear residents’ community safety concerns and to share crime prevention tips. The meeting was well attended and afterwards I got positive comments from the residents saying they found the meeting useful. “I was keen to introduce similar meetings around the borough and I hope that residents will support and go along to the local meeting for their ward”
Together for Safer Communities meetings Ward Date Venue
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Time
Pitsea Monday 9 October St Martin’s Monday 16 October Laindon Park Monday 23 October
The Place, 7pm to 9pm Pitsea, Northlands Pavement, Pitsea, SS13 3DU George Hurd Centre 7pm to 9pm Audley Way, Basildon, SS14 2FL Laindon Community 7pm to 9pm Centre Aston Road/ High Road, Laindon, SS15 6NX
Billericay Monday 30 October
Langham Hall, 7pm to 9pm Langham Crescent, South Green, Billericay, CM12 9RD
Wickford Monday 6 November Wickford Community 7.30pm to Centre Market Road, 9.30pm Wickford, SS12 0AG Vange Monday 13 November Mistley Community Hall Church Road, Vange, SS16 4AE
7pm to 9pm
Fryerns Monday 27 November Frypa Hall The Fryth, Basildon, SS14 3PL
7pm to 9pm
TOGETHER FOR SAFER COMMUNITIES
Residents get active thanks to £110k park revamp and improved facilities Borough residents are invited to get fit and meet new friends at a Wickford park after it underwent a £110k revamp. The improvements at Nevendon Road Park, including additional children’s play equipment and a modern skate park, were officially unveiled by Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison, on Saturday 22 July, and have been well received by the community. Basildon Council teamed up with partners including Nevendon Neighbourhood Agreement Steering Group, which part funded the new equipment, and Active Basildon, who organised an Activation Event and a follow on series of sporting
activities which took place throughout the summer holidays. Motivated Minds are now offering free weekly walks around the park every Friday morning for all ages and abilities. Anyone interested in taking part can meet outside Wickford Fire Station at 11.30am. Notice boards will be installed soon to inform local people about upcoming events and activities. Cllr Alan Ball, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Environment and Regeneration Committee, said: “Local residents have told us that putting in a new skate park, installing improved play equipment, picnic benches and bins has promoted
harmony and brought the community together. This project was all about encouraging residents to live a healthier and more active lifestyle, and instilling a sense of pride in the community. “It is great hearing positive feedback from parents, who have told us that removing the fence around the skate park has made it much easier for them to keep an eye on their children. I am sure the revamped park will continue to be a success.” For more information about future sporting activities or health programmes contact Heather Wood, Community Development Officer, on 01268 208072.
Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison, with park users and members of Nevendon Neighbourhood Agreement Steering Group
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Community
Wickford Memorial Park café opening event The Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison cut the ribbon to open a new café in Wickford Memorial Park last month. The opening event included lots of community activities like face painting, cup cake decorating, big bubble football and free crazy golf. The new café, which is called Huttons@Wickford, and new Sport England regulation changing facilities replace the old cricket pavilion. The work was funded by Sport England and the Veolia North Thames Trust, as well as Basildon Council. Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison, said:
“It was an honour for me to open the new café at Wickford Memorial Park following all the other improvements that have been made in the park. I must thank Sport England and Veolia for their contributions, and thank you to the people of Wickford who came to support this event.” Cllr Alan Ball, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Regeneration and Environment Committee, added: “This is an exciting time for the memorial park and the opening of the café marks the completion of the improvement works which has seen a refurbished play area and improvements to the crazy golf course over the summer.”
Cllr Alan Ball, Huttons@Wickford owners, Louise Suso and Tracy Holder with Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison.
Money Matters for Basildon Borough Friday 27 October 2017 9am to 5pm in the Basildon Centre Citizens Advice, Basildon Council, JobCentre Plus and The Library Service are delighted to be hosting a special event, Money Matters for Basildon Borough on Friday 27 October on the ground floor of the Basildon Centre. The event brings together a wide range of organisations that will be on hand to provide free information, advice and guidance to help local residents save money and reduce their bills. Residents are welcome to drop in on the day where they can: • Enjoy a wide range of free activities including special events for children in the Library • Save money on their gas and electricity
bills before the winter with Citizens Advice and Uswitch • Free legal advice from the event sponsors, Palmers Solicitors • Pensions guidance with Pensionwise • Essex Fire Service providing free smoke alarms and loads of great fire safety advice • St. Lukes Hospice with their help for carers. Alongside help to deal with money worries or debts, understand Universal Credit, water saving devices from Essex Water, top tips for managing your TV Licence, consumer advice along with top tips to help avoid being victim of a scam. Kathy Peach, Chief Executive at Citizens Advice Basildon Borough, said: “We know from our work in the community that
people can find financial matters difficult. The Money Matters event will help our local residents save money on their household bills along with some great fun activities, all designed to make our pounds go further.” Those who can’t make the event can still use Citizens Advice’s online price comparison tool www.citizensadvice.org.uk to see if they are on the best tariff or if there’s a cheaper deal with a different supplier. Money Matters for Basildon Borough sponsored by Palmers Solicitors
Local Service Directory TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL THE COMMUNICATIONS TEAM ON:
01268 208198 cmc@basildon.gov.uk basildonboroughcouncil @basildoncouncil
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
16 BOROUGHDIARY
Community Inspirational young carers are awarded for their achievements Young carers were awarded for their achievements after completing a six week summer holiday programme. Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison, handed out certificates to members of the newly formed Kool Carers group during a presentation at Wickford Community Centre on Wednesday 30 August. The pilot project was funded by the Nevendon Neighbourhood Agreement to provide young carers with professional support and guidance to develop life skills while having fun. The vision was to help them gain confidence and self-esteem in order to reach their full potential. Cllr Harrison said: “This programme provided an opportunity for young carers to shine and share their experiences. These youngsters have so much responsibility on their shoulders and most of us could not even begin to imagine what their families are going through. It was an honour and humbling to hand out certificates to inspirational youngsters from the Wickford area.” “Kool Carers would not have been possible without funding from Nevendon Neighbourhood Agreement and the generosity of Essex Youth Service who allowed the community group to use Downtowner Youth Centre free of charge. I must also thank Wickford Rotary
Club for paying for the young carers to enjoy a fun trip to the Willy Wonka experience at Nevendon Manor.” Twelve two-hour Kool Carers sessions were divided between primary and senior age groups, with the programme including a drama workshop, art class and cooking experience.
Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison, with Consort, Linda Harrison, Tricia Marshall from the Nevendon Neighbourhood Agreement Steering Group and young carers who attended the project
AUTUMN 2017
Introducing Care Navigators A Care Navigation Service is being launched in Basildon and Brentwood to help navigate people to the help and support they need to live well. Many people make an appointment to see their doctor when really the GP isn’t the best person to see. That’s often because there are non-medical issues affecting a patient’s wellbeing and health such as loneliness, bereavement, lifestyle management or a need for advice on housing, welfare benefits and statutory services. Care Navigators who actively signpost people to sources of help and support in their local community, means patients get the right care at the right time. There are fewer unnecessary GP appointments which helps ease the pressure on GPs and frees up more GP time for patients who really need to see their doctor. The Basildon and Brentwood Care Navigator Partnership is commissioned by Basildon and Brentwood Clinical Commissioning Group, Pub-
lic Health and Essex County Council. It builds on the work already undertaken by the Social Prescribing Navigator Service - previously available in some GP practices – and bring the benefits and opportunities of social prescribing to the wider population of Basildon and Brentwood. Social prescribing is non-medical advice that puts people in touch with sources of support in their communities such as exercise groups, local advice on housing, welfare and support services, social activities and volunteering opportunities. Care Navigators are there to support you to find solutions to your problems. They will make suggestions and know who might be able to help you. You may find your doctor, your practice nurse or another healthcare professional puts you in touch with the Care Navigation Service. However, there’s no need to ask your GP practice for a referral – you can contact the Basildon and Brentwood Care Navigation Partnership yourself by calling 0300 303 9988.
New Pride Teams working to improve borough cleanliness A borough wide blitz on untidiness has been given a boost as Basildon Council’s new Pride Teams get to work. In July, Basildon Council’s regeneration and environment committee agreed to increase the number of Pride Teams from one to three in a bid to tidy up communities.
carry out improvements to shopping parades. This work, including replacing bins, benches and removing graffiti, is set to happen in the current financial year.
The new teams officially started their work at the start of September following an induction at the Barleylands Depot, in Billericay, on Friday 1 September. They will each be responsible for a designated area – Billericay and Wickford; Fryerns, Laindon and Langdon Hills; or Vange, Nethermayne and Pitsea. The work of Pride Teams includes clearing undergrowth from footpaths, removing dumped litter from wooded areas, deep cleansing untidy areas and enhancing shrub beds. Cllr Alan Ball, Chairman of Basildon Council’s Regeneration and Environment Committee, said: “We are committed to making this borough a place to be proud of for our residents and doing the basics like improving cleanliness is key to achieving that. “A clean and tidy borough will increase pride in the environment across our communities.
Cllr Alan Ball, Chairman of Basildon Council’s Regeneration and Environment Committee with the Pride Team
You can report street cleaning, rubbish and waste issues such as dumped rubbish and dumped trolleys on our website 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just go to www. basildon.gov.uk and click on ‘street scene reporting’
“We want to focus on the issues which matter most to our residents, so they will be working to focus on high-impact works” Alongside the extra Pride Teams the regeneration and environment committee also agreed to
Cllr Alan Ball, Chairman of Basildon Council’s Regeneration and Environment Committee with members of the Pride Team working in Wickford
AUTUMN 2017
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
BOROUGHDIARY 17
Services/Events 30th Anniversary of Black History Month Celebrations FREE Black History celebration events will be held throughout October 2017 - with culture and heritage workshops, food tasting, African and Caribbean drum and dance and sports events. The following programme of events will be delivered with support from Basildon Borough Council, members of the community, community organisations and the UK national Black History Month organisation. Saturday 7 October 11am to 4pm Opening ceremony Saturday 14 October 11am to 4pm - African and Caribbean culture and heritage awareness
Saturday 21 October 11am to 4pm - Community Engagement - strategies for creating equality in Basildon All taking place in St. George’s Suite, The Basildon Centre, St. Martin’s Square, Basildon SS14 1DL To register to attend the events above please contact Yetunde Adeshile by email y_adeshile@ yahoo.co.uk Saturday 28th October 2017 10am to 5pm - Carnival outside the Basildon Centre including food tasting and African and Caribbean drum and dance For more information please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/events
COUNCIL COMMITTEE DATES
OCTOBER - DECEMBER 2017
Council committees are open to the public and held in the St George’s Suite at the Basildon Centre. Dates and times are correct at time of publication but may change. To see the agendas and reports please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/meetings
Mobile library services- have your say Essex County Council is asking residents for their views on how library services to locations outside of town centres should be delivered. The council has no plans to scrap mobile libraries entirely. Instead it is looking at a range of ways to reach people in more isolated places, encouraging more people to get involved through volunteering. This involves helping support the creation of community libraries, staffed by volunteers, in local halls, shops or pubs and extending the Home Library Service, which delivers books to people in their own homes and helps combat social isolation. The council wants to hear what people think of how it proposes to redraw routes and to share their own ideas for bringing libraries to more remote places.
The consultation will run until 7 November. To have your say, visit http://libraries.essex.gov.uk/news/ mobile-library-service-consultation or complete a paper survey available from a mobile library or in your local library.
4 October
7pm
Regeneration and Environment Committee
10 October
7pm
Planning Committee
12 October 12 October
7pm 7.30pm
Extraordinary Council Council
17 October
7pm
Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee
19 October
7pm
Policy and Resources Committee
24 October
7pm
Planning Committee
2 November
7pm
Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee
7 November
7pm
Planning Committee
14 November
7pm
Housing and Community Committee
21 November
7pm
Planning Committee
22 November
7pm
Audit and Risk Committee
23 November
7pm
Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee
29 November
7pm
Licensing Committee
30 November
7pm
Policy and Resources Committee
5 December
7pm
Planning Committee
6 December
7pm
Housing and Community Committee
7 December
7pm
Regeneration and Environment Committee
12 December
7pm
Joint Standards Committee
13 December
7pm
Infrastructure Growth and Development Committee
14 December
7.30pm
Council
19 December
7pm
Planning Committee
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
18 BOROUGHDIARY
Services
Councillor surgeries Councillor surgeries are open to members of the public who want to obtain information and advice, make a complaint or enquire about services that the council provides. Billericay East Cllr Dadds - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay. Cllr Schrader - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay. Cllr Sullivan - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay. Billericay West Cllr Turner - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay. Cllr Lawrence - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay. Cllr Hedley - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay. Burstead Cllr Blake - Street Surgery will be
held on the last Saturday of the month 10am-12 noon. Cllr Baggott- Last Saturday of the month 10am-12 noon in different streets in Billericay. Cllr Moore - Street Surgery will be held on the last Saturday of the month 10am-12 noon. Crouch Cllr Sargent - First Saturday of the month between 9.30am and 10.30am at Noak Bridge Village Hall, Coppice Lane, and the third Saturday of the month between 9am and 10am at Steepleview Hall, Willowfield (off Osier Drive) Laindon SS15 4EQ. Cllr Allen- First Saturday of the month between 9.30am and 10.30am at Noak Bridge Village Hall, Coppice Lane, and the third Saturday of the month between 9am and 10am at Steepleview Hall, Willowfield (off Osier Drive) Laindon SS15 4EQ. Fryerns Cllr Brown - contact for details: 07791 109436 Cllr Davies - contact for details: 01268 459285 Cllr Sheppard - Every fourth Saturday of the month from 1.30pm - 3.30pm at the Fryerns Library, Whitmore Way, Basildon. Laindon Park Cllr Ellis – contact for details
Crunch Times
The crunch service is a mobile waste disposal facility that tours the borough. Residents can use it to dispose of bulkier items of rubbish. Locations marked with a G can also be used for the disposal of green waste. The crunch service is not suitable for paints, oils or other waste liquids. The crunch is from 9am to 12 noon at each site, unless otherwise stated. Further details are available at basildon.gov.uk/recycling
7 October
Billericay - David’s Walk CM11 2EZ Crays Hill Recreation Ground CM11 2YA Laindon West - Hoover Drive SS15 6LF 9 -10.30 Laindon West - Nightingales SS16 6SA 10.30-12 noon Kingswood - Playgroup Centre opposite shops SS16 5AD 9 -10.30 Vange Hill Drive (corner of Oldwyk) 10.30-12 noon
14 October
Wickford - Kershaws Close SS12 0LJ Pitsea - Kenneth Road - Layby SS13 2AT
07712 706892 Cllr Green - The first Saturday of every month from 9am until 11am at Laindon Library, 5-7 New Century Road, Laindon SS15 6AG. Cllr Barnes – contact for details 07427 356812 Langdon Hills Cllr Allport-Hodge - Every first Saturday of the month from 12 noon until 1pm at the Langdon Hills Women’s Institute Hall, Samuel Road, Langdon Hills, Basildon, SS16 6EZ. Cllr Hillier - contact for details 01268 490201 Lee Chapel North Cllr Ferguson - contact for details 07817 311373, or write c/o Basildon Borough Council Cllr Bennett - contact for details 01277 626236 Cllr Gordon - contact for details 07817 865202 Nethermayne Cllr Smith - The third Saturday of the month from midday until 1pm at the Kingswood Playgroup Centre, Clay Hill Road, Kingswood, Basildon SS16 5AD. Please call 01268 661812 for details Cllr Fellowes – contact for details 07788 298007
9 -10.30 Pitsea - Chevers Pawen (service Area) SS13 3EJ 10.30-12 noon Langdon Hills - Triangle Shops SS16 6HF
21 October
Wickford - Keats Way opp. No. 3 Garage area SS12 0BP Vange - Gordon Road layby near Helpeston SS14 1PR Pitsea - Northlands Park SS13 3LW 9 -10.30 Pitsea - Felmores End SS13 1PN 10.30-12 noon Laindon Link - Monastery Road SS15 5FD
28 October
Billericay - Hannakins Farm CM12 0EZ Langdon Hills - Delmores, near to The Hyde SS16 6LL Fryerns - Downey Close SS14 2NF 9 -10.30 Craylands - The Lichfields SS14 3RQ 10.30-12noon
4 November
Ramsden Bellhouse - Village Hall CM11 1RH Wickford - Alderney Gardens rear of shops SS11 7JP Fryerns - Frypa Hall SS14 3RQ
Cllr Hodge – contact for details 07842 086712 St Martin’s Cllr Burton-Sampson – surgeries by appointment. Email david. burton-sampson@members. basildon.gov.uk or contact 07480 339823 Cllr Buxton – surgeries by appointment. Email andrew. buxton@members.basildon.gov. uk or contact 07900 154418 Pitsea South East Cllr Arnold – contact for details 07510 385744 Cllr Carrion – contact for details 07908 439441 Cllr Ward – contact for details 07908 439441 Pitsea North West Cllr Callaghan – by appointment on Thursdays. Please email gavin. callaghan@members.basildon. gov.uk Cllr Canham- To be held on the last Saturday of every month at Chalvedon Community Social Club, 1 Chalvedon Square, Pitsea, SS13 3QX Cllr Clancy - The first Saturday of every month from 12.30pm 1.30pm, The Place, Pitsea Leisure Centre. Please contact 07563 748334 for details.
11 November
Laindon - Basildon Drive junction with Dickens Drive SS15 5QW Vange - Redgrave Road SS16 4DB 9 -10.30 Vange - Southview Road Opp. Dentist SS13 3RQ 10.30-12noon Wickford - The Wick Country Park SS12 9GP Fryerns - Ghyllgrove -Opposite the Upway SS14 2JU
18 November
Billericay - Little Burstead Car Park CM12 9SY Wickford - Kershaws Close SS12 0LJ Laindon - Southwell Link off Gower Chase SS15 5TZ Pitsea - Parkhurst Road SS13 3DL 9 -10.30 Pitsea Mount - Brackendale Avenue SS13 3BD 10.30-12noon
25 November
Billericay - Radford Crescent - Car Park CM12 0BW Wickford - Rettendon View SS11 8HU 9-11 Pippin Court 11-12 SS11 8JW Vange - Gordon Road layby near Helpeston SS14 1PR Lee Chapel North – Rear of Plough and
AUTUMN 2017
Vange Cllr Block - Every second Saturday of the month at 11am, at Vange Library, Southview Road, Basildon, SS16 4ET Cllr McGeorge - Every second Saturday of the month at 11am, at Vange Library, Southview Road, Basildon SS16 4ET. Wickford Castledon Cllr Ball - The first Saturday in every month at the Wickford Community Centre, Market Road, Wickford from 10am to 12 noon. Cllr D Morris - contact for details 01268 457488 Wickford North Cllr Holliman - The last Saturday of the month 10am - 12 noon at Wickford Community Centre, Market Road, Wickford. Cllr C Morris - contact for details 01268 457488 Cllr Mowe - contact for details 01268 463564 Wickford Park Cllr Harrison - The first Saturday in every month at the Wickford Community Centre, Market Road, Wickford from 10am to 12 noon. Cllr Jackman - contact for details: 07762 888775
Tractor Pub SS15 5HG
2 December
Billericay - David’s Walk CM11 2EZ Laindon Link - Bluehouse Community Centre SS15 5UH Laindon - Noak Bridge - Coppice Lane SS15 4JS Lee Chapel South - The Knares service area rear of 58-92 SS16 5TF
9 December
Billericay - Carvers Wood CM11 2TJ Bowers Gifford - Westlake Park off Pound Lane, opposite pet store SS13 2HN Langdon Hills - Delmores, near to The Hyde SS16 6LL Pitsea - Winifred Road SS13 3JQ
16 December
Billericay - Little Burstead Car Park CM12 9SY Chalvedon - Mill Green Layby near car park SS13 3PB 9 -10.30 Chalvedon - Travers Way (Middle) SS13 3LX 10.30-12noon Craylands – Jordan Way SS14 3QL 9-10.30 Fryerns – Downey Close SS14 2NF 10.30-12noon
AUTUMN 2017
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
Events
BOROUGHDIARY 19
Events
Fireworks
Saturday 4th November 2017 Lake Meadows park, Billericay For more information visit: www.billericayfireworks.co.uk Sunday 5th November 2017 Basildon Round Table fireworks Basildon Sports & Leisure Club, Basildon SS14 3AP For more information visit: www.basildonfireworks.co.uk
Panto
Aladdin Pantomime 2017 Tuesday 28th November 2017 to Tuesday 2nd January 2018 The Towngate Theatre, St. Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL www.towngatetheatre.co.uk
THURSDAY
26 OCTOBER
16
BOROUGHDIARY
NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY
Sport
FA standard football pitch and multi-games court are unveiled after refurbishment An FA standard sports pitch has been unveiled in Billericay as part of a refurbishment costing in the region of £190k. Basildon Council worked in collaboration with West Billericay Community Association to improve the facilities on offer at Hannakins Farm Community Centre. The community association leases the land from the council and runs the centre. The ageing synthetic turf football pitch has been replaced with a new 3G ground covering which meets FA Standards. A new and improved multi-games pitch has been created by adding a new carpet to the existing hardstanding area, improving the netball and tennis offer. This also provides an option for five-a-side football usage. Fencing has been put up around the pitch. Cllr Frank Ferguson, Vice Chairman of Basildon Council’s Regeneration and Environment Committee, said: “The new and improved facilities at Hannakins Farm Community Centre look fantastic and it is great that the sporting provision on offer
for residents and teams across the borough has once again been given a boost. “This refurbishment project was funded by Basildon Council and the West Billericay Community Association, who share our commitment to supporting active lifestyles. I am sure the sports pitches will prove to be an important asset for the community.”
Nikki Harvey, Centre Manager at Hannakins Farm Community Centre with Cllr Frank Ferguson, Basildon Council’s Vice Chairman of the Regeneration and Environment Committee
Nominate your local sporting hero for the Active Essex Sports awards 2017 Nominations are now open for the Active Essex Sports Awards, an annual event that celebrates the outstanding achievements of sporting organisations and individuals. Residents can nominate their local sporting heroes in one of 11 categories that recognise talent from grassroots to elite level. One of this year’s categories includes ‘Sports Personality of the Year’, which is awarded to an athlete who has made a significant impact on sports and physical activity in the county. Last year the category was won by Olympic gold medal winning gymnast Max Whitlock of South Essex Gymnastics Club, following his incredible success in Rio. Due to the success of the public vote last year for ‘Sport Personality of the Year’, along with this category again we have an additional two categories where the winner will be decided by a public vote, these are: ‘Disabled Sports Personality of the Year’ and the ‘Unsung Hero’.
Azeem Akhtar, Chair of Active Essex, said: “The annual sports awards highlight those making outstanding contributions to sport and physical activity across our county and are inspiring others to get active. “I’m looking forward to seeing all the nominations and meeting the finalists at the ceremony in December.” The county has seen lots of fantastic sporting feats from local athletes already this summer, with the athletics IAAF World Championships and IAAF Para Athletics Championships. Nominations can be made via https://www.activeessex.org/sportsawards-2017/ before 20 October 2017.
AUTUMN 2017
Still time to nominate for Basildon Sports Awards This year’s Active Basildon Sports Awards will be held on Wednesday 15 November 2017 at Reids in Billericay. Help us celebrate Basildon’s sporting talent, commitment and determination by nominating those who have made a difference to or through sport over the past year. Do you know someone who deserves to be recognised for their dedication to their sport? Can you help to spotlight outstanding commitment, whether it’s a player or an unsung hero who gives time and effort to support sporting talent? Nominations are now open for this year’s awards so please take this opportunity to reward rising and accomplished sports people and those nurturing elite sporting talent or inspiring their local community to be more active. There are 11 categories to nominate for and the winners of these awards will be put forward for prestigious county awards – to win Essexwide recognition. Active Basildon are also offering a number of sponsorship packages for the event. If
you would like to raise the profile of your company, this is the ideal opportunity. Three sponsorship packages are available, so there is something to suit every business need - from an advert in the event programme to the opportunity to sponsor a specific award. Make your business part of this great celebration by contacting activebasildon@basildon.gov.uk for further details. To submit your nomination, visit www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ActiveBasildon SportsAwards2017 The deadline for nominations is Friday 13 October 2017.
Winners and Highly Commended nominees at last year’s Sport Awards
BOROUGHDIARY NEWS FROM BASILDON BOROUGH COUNCIL & YOUR COMMUNITY
To comment on stories in this edition of the Borough Diary, or to make suggestions, please write to: The Communications Team, Borough Diary, Basildon Borough Council, The Basildon Centre, St. Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL, or email cmc@basildon.gov.uk About the Borough Diary: This newspaper is produced by the Communications Team at Basildon Council. It is published four times a year and delivered free to almost 80,000 homes in Basildon, Billericay and Wickford. Advertise in the Borough Diary: To advertise or enquire about rates and deadlines, call 01268 208198. Basildon Council accepts no responsibility for the content of any advertisement published in the Borough Diary and the inclusion of any advertisement does not imply approval or recommendation by the council of either the terms of any offer or service contained in it or of the advertiser. Other formats: To receive or download the electronic version of this newspaper via email, or to download the spoken word version, please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/boroughdiary. For translations, or to receive the Borough Diary in an alternative format, please call 01268 208198. Printed on recycled paper. Please recycle your Borough Diary after reading. Basildon Borough Council, The Basildon Centre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex, SS14 1DL. Website: www.basildon.gov.uk Telephone: 01268 533333 Email: customerservices@basildon.gov.uk Chief Executive: Bala Mahendran Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee - Councillor Gavin Callaghan