Basildon Council Borough Diary - Spring 2014 by Basildon Council

Spring 2014

Page 14

www.basildon.gov.uk

The best of Basildon borough photo competition

THE BIG FREEZE Council Tax is Frozen for Third Year In A Row An ambitious budget packed with investments, alongside a council tax freeze for the third consecutive year, has been announced by Basildon Council. Despite the continuing tough economic climate and major reductions in central Government funding, residents will pay less council tax than they did four years ago, following a cut in 2011. Leader of the council, Tony Ball, said: “Local residents are still feeling the pinch and I believe that local councils must do what they can to relieve the burden on hard pressed and hard working families, whilst continuing to deliver good services. “That is why I am pleased we are presenting a council tax freeze and a range of new investments that will benefit local people throughout the

borough.” Cllr Stuart Sullivan, cabinet member for resources, said: “Sound financial management and running a tight ship has allowed us to remain ambitious and put local people at the heart of what we do. “Not only does this budget outline savings and investments, it also makes sure that we retain appropriate levels of reserves to manage uncertainties that we may face in the future. “Prudence is a major priority of this council, and is the very reason why despite the challenging times we are financially secure.” The budget was approved by Full Council in February. Continues on page 4

putting local people first new homes and investment in basildon communities

“This is about putting residents first and being in the driving seat when it comes to building new homes for local people.” Deputy leader and cabinet member for Housing, Cllr Phil Turner outlines Basildon Council’s housing plans for the borough. Cllr Phil Turner

- See page 3

HIGHLIGHTS • £320,000 investment in Billericay swimming pool • Free Christmas and weekend parking continues • World War One commemoration events • £20,000 for Laindon war memorial • Community Investment Fund continues • Laindon Centre investment • Pitsea town centre regeneration projects

INSIDE: HAVE YOUR SAY ON NEW HOMES AND JOBS - PAGES 8 & 9

SPRING 2014

Mayor’s Message from Cllr Mo Larkin To comment on stories in this edition of the Borough Diary, please write to: Michelle EdwardsNorcisse, Editor, Borough Diary, Basildon Borough Council, The Basildon Centre, St. Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL, or email michelle.edwardsnorcisse@basildon.gov.uk. About the Borough Diary: This newspaper is produced by the Marketing and Communications team at Basildon Borough 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 294201. 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: For translations, or to receive the Borough Diary in an alternative format, please call 01268 294590.

Mayor of Basildon Borough Council I hope by the time you are reading this column that you are starting to enjoy the first signs of Spring rather than the wet weather we have been experiencing. For me, 2014 has started off quite eventful with the remembrance of the victims of past and present genocides at Holocaust Memorial Day in January. I joined other residents as we signed the Book of Commitment, pledging to uphold the memory of millions killed during the Holocaust and other genocides around the world. I also attended the memorial service where survivor John Fieldsend, gave his childhood account of this grim period in history. Having events like these, help remind us that we must all unite to stop such atrocities from happening now and in the future. In February I joined Jonjo Heurman, an extraordinary 12 year old boy, starting the second leg of a five day charity walk from Basildon to Billericay, raising funds in aid of the Bobby Moore Fund - Bowel Cancer Awareness. Jonjo started organising these annual walks in 2011, in memory of Bobby Moore and Jonjo’s nanny, who also died of bowel cancer. So far Jonjo has raised

Mayor Mo Larkin at charity walk

£140,000 and has also raised awareness about the disease by giving up his time to talk to schools and any interested groups. This year Jonjo’s target is to raise £50,000 or more so I was happy to support him as he strives to achieve his goal. You too can help - visit www.fornannyandbobby.com for more information. Also in February I joined Mayors and Chairmen from neighbouring Councils at Ingatestone Hall to receive a special Commonwealth flag from Lord Petre, which will be raised as part of a national event to mark Commonwealth Day on 10 March.

more Pride for 2014

Leader Cllr Tony Ball and Wickford Cllr Michael Mowe at a Pride event last year

Twelve thousand households from across the borough are set to benefit from a “Pride in your Area” day in 2014. Each event is held on a Saturday, with council officers collecting waste and recycling from more than 1000 properties in each area, as well as carrying out graffiti removal, street sweeping and litter picking – alongside a deep clean in areas which needed it. Cabinet member for environment, John Dornan, said: “These days really help us to improve the areas we live in – and the service

has been well received by the residents. “By the end of this year 50,000 households will have benefitted from this service since it was introduced. “These days allow householders to get rid of large and bulky items they might struggle with, and it allows our street cleansing team to get into some areas and deep clean – over and above the usual high standards of cleaning. “So if you receive a leaflet before the day make sure you make the most of this service.”

This is a history in the making event as 500 Commonwealth flags will be raised throughout the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and the Isle of Man on this day to celebrate the true value of the Commonwealth together. I am proud to support this symbolic event and look forward to seeing the communities of Essex unite in raising their flags. So come join me at 10am at St Martin’s Square as the borough marks this special occasion with its own flag raising event. I hope to see you there!

New Pitsea market open as regeneration stays on track A new-and-improved 89 stall Pitsea market opened for business in January, as part of the major regeneration of the town. The new ‘Market Square’ on the site of the former Railway Hotel and fronting onto High Road has opened up a new gateway to the town centre and is the first part of the £30m project led by London & Cambridge Properties. The market opening will be followed by the opening of a new Aldi supermarket in April and Morrison’s in Easter 2015, creating new jobs for the town. Paving works in Northlands Pavement has also begun. Cllr Malcolm Buckley, cabinet

member for regeneration, said: “The Aldi store is clearly rising from the ground behind the new market square and the whole development is really starting to take shape, highlighting what an improved town centre the people of Pitsea can look forward to.” The new market will be open on Wednesdays and Saturdays between 9am and 3.30pm while a secondhand market will run on Fridays. For more information on the market, please visit www.charfleets. com For more information on the town centre regeneration, visit www. pitsearegeneration.co.uk

Facebook: Search Basildon Council Twitter: www.twitter.com/basildoncouncil

SPRING 2014

CRUNCH TIMES The Crunch Service is a mobile waste disposal facility that tours the borough which residents can use 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 noon at each site, unless otherwise stated. Further details are available at basildon.gov.uk/recycling

8 March Ramsden Bellhouse Village Hall Car Park Lee Chapel North Plough and Tractor Pub Langdon Hills - Triangle Shops 15 March Wickford - Kershaws Close Rear of Nevendon Road Shops Billericay - Carvers Wood Laindon - Laindon Link opposite Kingdom Hall 22 March Laindon - Noak Bridge Coppice Lane Vange - Barge PH 9am to 11am Ryedene 11am to noon Fryerns - Frypa Hall 29 March Pitsea Mount Brackendale Avenue Wickford - The Wick Country Park Laindon - Basildon Drive Junction with Dickens Drive 5 April Wickford - Rettendon View 9an to 11am 11am to noon Pippin Court Billericay - Hannikins Farm Laindon - Little Oxcroft Service Road 12 April Wickford - Kershaws Close Rear of Nevendon Road Shops Lee Chapel North - Rear of Plough and Tractor in Car Park Langdon Hills - Valence Way Junction w/ Debden Green Craylands – Norwich Walk – Rear of shops 3 May Wickford - Keats Way Opp. No. 3 Council Garage Area Billericay - Carvers Wood Laindon West - Thornton Way/Sparkbridge Parking Area Barstable West - Church Road Junction with Clickett Hill

New homes & investment in Basildon communities BASILDON Council’s housing boss has announced plans to build new homes for local people and invest in communities. Councillors approved a number of big investments in the borough’s housing as cabinet discussed the financial forecast for housing for the next four years in February. This coincided with approval for plans to form a council-owned housing company to build new homes in the borough. £97million will be spent on the housing stock including significant investment in improving communities. The package includes £2.5million funding for new affordable homes, and a £100,000 a year investment in tidying and managing council housing estates. £100,000 will also be invested over two years in training the tenancy and estate management teams on how to detect housing fraud. Deputy Leader of the Council, Phil Turner said: “We are committed to providing value for money and this is why we are investing £97million into our housing to ensure every tenant has a decent, efficiently heated home set in a clean and pleasant environment. “This is not just about bricks and mortar. It’s about improving the lives of our residents too. “We have also frozen tax and kept rent increases below the recommended amount as we should

be putting pounds in people’s pockets after such austerity endured in recent years.” The council has invested £200,000 in a Wholly Owned Company (WOC) that will carry out development and investigative work on councilowned land earmarked to be developed. There are currently 10 sites being looked at for development of around 100 homes in the next two years. Sites in Roman Way, Billericay and Paslowes Basildon, are among the 10 sites being investigated. Cllr Turner added: “This is about putting residents first and being in the driving seat when it comes to building new homes for local people. “This will have the multiple benefits of creating much needed new homes, regenerating small areas of land and tackling anti-social behaviour, whilst offering value for money for local people. “By forming our own company we will be able to provide quality affordable homes and help to stimulate economic activity. “We can also provide our residents with training and earning opportunities through apprenticeships in partnership with local education providers.” The homes will be available across a range of tenures including affordable rent, private sale and shared equity. The WOC will be responsible for engaging with contractors to build the properties.

More new homes for the borough

Wickford’s transformation The regeneration of Wickford town centre has started with the £2.4m renovation of Wickford swimming pool. Work to bring the building up to modern standards started in January and followed the approval of plans by the council in December. A new fitness suite, main entrance and reception, changing rooms and studios will also be created as part of an extension. The refurbishment of the pool and changing rooms will be completed by early April 2014 and the new fitness suite will open in the Autumn. The pool work is just one part of a whole package of works being carried out to improve the town. In December a modern new block of public toilets opened and plans have been submitted Work on the new Market Lane could start in the Spring to create a new ‘Market Lane’ (in the current High Street The Council has also launched a programme of alley) which will include new market kiosks, a new improvements to shop fronts on the High Street to entrance and signage, tree planting, paving and make sure the shops look as good as all the other lighting. This will be complemented by a number of changes. High Street improvements and changes to the road Cllr Malcolm Buckley, cabinet member for layout to allow for market stalls to be moved there. regeneration, said: “I am pleased that work has A new Town Square will also be created, with new started on the pool and an application has been paving and street furniture that will reinvigorate submitted for a new Market Lane. All of these this central area and encourage new investment projects are going to make a major difference and more retailers and shoppers to Wickford. to the feel and vibrancy of the town, encourage Subject to planning approval, work on the new investment and give the people of Wickford, public Market Lane could start in the Spring. facilities they deserve.”

popular crunch service continues BASILDON Council has announced the next round of dates for the popular ‘Crunch’ service. The Crunch service is a mobile civic amenity site, which provides residents the chance to bring items to a convenient location for recycling or disposal. Cllr John Dornan, cabinet member for the environment, said: “We are pleased to be able to continue the Crunch service. It is very popular amongst our residents and provides a great opportunity to get rid of those big items you may have, or if you are having a one-off clear-out or tidy up.” The Crunch timetable can be viewed at www. basildon.gov.uk, where there is also an interactive map to show locations close to your postcode.

SPRING 2014

a summer of World War One centenary events This summer Basildon Council will open a four year World War One centenary commemoration with a series of events around the Borough. The council will be working with the Civil Military Partnership Board and local community groups to coordinate various events to recognise and remember the sacrifices of servicemen and women. With the programme of events beginning to take

shape, there will be opportunities for different kinds of commemoration - including cultural events, exhibitions and activity days. The board are also open to further suggestions from groups and individuals. The events will be staggered between 2014 and 2018 with the council setting aside £25,000 for 2014. Cllr Sargent, cabinet member for community said: “This summer we are looking to commemorate the anniversary

Check Easter Refuse Collection Changes Online With Easter fast approaching, Basildon Council is working hard to make sure that changes to your refuse and recycling collections are kept to a minimum. Collections will be delayed by one day following all Bank Holidays.

There are also more items than ever which can be recycled over Easter. To check your collection day, visit www. basildon.gov.uk and click on ‘where I live’.

Normal collection day

Revised collection day

Wednesday April 16th

Collection as normal

Thursday April 17th

Collection as normal

Friday April 18th – Good Friday Monday April 21st – Easter Monday

Saturday April 19th Tuesday April 22nd

Tuesday April 22nd

Wednesday April 23rd

Thursday April 24th

Friday April 25th

Saturday April 26th

Monday April 28th

Collections Return to normal

FREEZE Continued from front page

£320,000 will be invested in Billericay swimming pool, free Christmas and weekend parking, partnership funding, World War 1 commemoration events and the Laindon war memorial. £1.6m from last year’s budget will also be invested, including the continuation of the community investment fund, and money for the Laindon Centre and Pitsea town

centre regeneration projects. An additional £1 million of efficiencies will need to be found on top of those already identified in the next financial year, rising to £6.4 million by 2017/18. By 2015, the grant from central government to Basildon Council will have reduced by £7.4 million (52%) since the austerity measures began back in 2010/11. General reserves will be maintained at £2.5 million and contingency reserve levels will be £2m.

of the First World War and are working with community groups to organise events across the borough. If anyone can help with this, we are available to work with you to develop the ideas that you have.” “I’m confident that together we can make this a memorable Armed Forces experience.” To find out more or get involved please email ppr@ basildon.gov.uk or call 01268 294115.

£20,000 investment to move laindon war memorial A £20,000 investment has been earmarked for the relocation of the Laindon War Memorial, along with £25,000 for events to commemorate the centenary of the First World War. The memorial based in Laindon town centre was donated to the people of Laindon in 1936 by Mr AE Symes and represents the service and sacrifice of the people of Laindon who served in the two world wars. The memorial will be relocated as part of any redevelopment of the Laindon Centre and Basildon Council has

signalled their commitment to do this. Cllr Tony Ball, leader of the council, said: “This borough has a proud association with, and reputation for supporting our armed forces that stretches back over many years. Preserving the War memorial in Laindon is vital. This commitment ensures that we have the funds to move the war memorial when necessary and as part of the redevelopment of the Laindon Centre. It is also important that we honour our armed forces, particularly in this First World War commemoration year. “

Tips for Safe Travelling by Taxi in Basildon Borough

1. Make sure there is a Basildon Council Licence Plate on the rear of the vehicle. Similar signs will be on the side doors. 2. Every licensed driver carries an I.D. badge. Ask to see it if you are in any doubt. 3. Don’t be overcharged. Taxis have to keep to maximum fares, private hire fares are to be agreed with driver or operator. 4. Don’t ask the driver to carry more passengers than is allowed. The number permitted is shown on the Licence Plate. 5. Taxis can be hailed down in the street or found at an official rank. Private Hire vehicles must be booked in advance. For more information, call 01268 294280 or email taxi.licensing@basildon.gov.uk

SPRING 2014

2013 Fear of crime survey results LITTER, tidiness and burglary were highlighted among residents’ concerns in Basildon Community Safety Partnership’s (CSP) fourteenth annual Fear of Crime survey in 2013. Supported by Basildon Council, the CSP’s survey findings will be used to inform the development of the CSP’s annual action plans and will form the basis for the partnership’s communications campaign for 2014/15. Bala Mahendran, chief executive of Basildon Council and chairman of the CSP, said: “This survey is a very useful way to establish areas of

Schools sign up for “Crucial Crew” sessions A PACKED schedule of Crucial Crew sessions for primary school pupils are planned this Spring focussing on anti-social behaviour, bullying, fire safety, healthy relationships, weapons awareness and alcohol and smoking, in readiness for their transition to secondary school. The sessions run throughout March and April, and will outline delivery in schools by members of the Basildon Community Safety Partnership.

concern which helps us plan ahead for how we can tackle those issues. “I am pleased more people felt their views had been sought by the police and council compared to last year. This is testament to all the work we do in the community to raise awareness of crime. “We will continue to work to address the areas of concern that have been raised in the coming year.” According to the results, 21.4% of respondents who had been victims of crime in the last 12 months said that crimes went unreported. This is a big difference compared to 2012

where 63% of respondents who had been a victim of crime said that the crimes went unreported. This suggests that the efforts made to encourage reporting have been successful and given the residents the confidence to do so. The number of respondents who felt that their views were sought by the police and local council about crime and anti-social behaviour has increased to 36.3% in 2013 compared to 25.3% in 2012. The results indicated the Fear of Crime has risen very marginally to 14.9%, an increase of 0.1% compared to 2012.

Over 50s Crucial Crew For Health And Wellbeing LOCAL PEOPLE have taken part in the first ever Older People’s Crucial Crew event held in February. Local people aged 50 and over were invited to attend the event, at the Towngate Theatre, to listen to presentations on safety and wellbeing from members of the Basildon Community Safety Partnership (CSP). Scenarios discussed included: home

fire safety, anti-social behaviour, home and personal security, falls prevention, rogue traders and consumer advice. Cllr Malcolm Buckley, cabinet member responsible for community safety, said: “We’ve been running similar events to this for young people for some time which have proved successful. “We felt that they could be adapted and be a valuable resource for the older

generation too.” Those speaking at the event included: Basildon Council, Essex Fire and Rescue Service, Essex Police, the Papworth Trust and Trading Standards. Vitality also attended offering free health checks before and after the event. More advice and information can be found at the Essex Police website www. essex.police.uk

PARTNERSHIP WORKING TO SUPPORT VICTIMS OFFICERS who manage staff or volunteers working with people affected by domestic abuse or sexual violence will be taking part in two full day seminars this Spring. The seminars, to be held in April, have been organised by Basildon

Community Safety Partnership to reduce crime and reoffending. Speakers include: Laura Richards, domestic abuse expert, and John Woodley from E-Safety Training. These seminars will help people to understand the issues involved with

sexual violence and domestic abuse and highlight the warning signs for participants to recognise during their daily business, encouraging early intervention where warning signs are present and empower victims to report to agencies.

SPRING 2014

changes following partnership brooke house review for job

Brooke House

A ‘security’ service and night shift for concierges are some of the recommendations made by Basildon Council following a Scrutiny Review in response to residents’ concerns at Brooke House. Concerns raised included anti-social behaviour, issues with the bin chutes, and speculation about the buildings long term future. Ten Brooke House residents including eight tenants

and two leaseholders attended witness sessions to speak about their experiences. Other residents contributted to the review by submitting their views in writing. It was agreed that the majority of the problems being experienced could be attributed to a small group of residents, or visitors to the building, causing deliberate damage or misusing facilities. Councillors heard evidence about the robust measures in place to tackle anti-social behaviour. Cllr Phil Turner, deputy leader and cabinet member for housing, said: “We are committed to improving the lives of our residents throughout the borough but those who live at Brooke House have had particular issues to deal with as residents of the borough’s only tower. “This open discussion between the council, tenants and leaseholders enabled by the scrutiny process is essential if we are to improve the situation and find solutions to concerns raised.” The scrutiny review report outlined a number of recommendations to deal with identified issues, including changing the concierges’ shift patterns to include a night shift, and amending their remit to provide a ‘security’ service which was implemented in last December. For more information about how to suggest a topic for a Scrutiny Review, see the “Invitation to Share your Views” article on page 14.

Got an old electrical item that’s lost its spark? Have you got a kettle, toaster or microwave that’s no longer working? Did you know that electrical items (anything with a plug) can be recycled at your nearest recycling centre. Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) is largely made up from metals, plastics and circuit boards. These items need to be disposed of in the correct manner and can be recovered and recycled – so should never be put in with general waste or sent to landfill. All electrical items can be taken to Barleylands Depot or Pitsea Recycling Centre for Household waste to be sent for processing and recycling. For more information visit www.basildon.gov.uk/ recycling

taking your business to the next level Local businesses are getting more help to win contracts and new business opportunities, thanks to workshops being arranged by Basildon Council. Procurement workshops taking place on Wednesday 26 March, Thursday 15 May, and Thursday 3 July, will offer beginner and intermediate sessions to local companies. Each workshop will last three hours. A free Meet the Buyers event will also be held on Thursday 24 April to support local companies engaging with large buyers. Pre-arranged 10 minute introductory meetings between buyers will be organised, giving local businesses the opportunity to promote services and products they supply. To book a place on the procurement workshops please contact Lucy Payne at lucy.payne@basildon.gov.uk For the Meet the Buyers event please register your interest using the online form at www.basildon.gov.uk/meetthebuyers

creation BASILDON Council has pledged to work with Prospects College to create employment opportunities for young people in the borough. At a January event, a memorandum of understanding was signed between the council and Prospects College, which offers vocational training in south Essex. Cllr Phil Turner, deputy leader and cabinet member for housing, said: “This event enabled us to cement our partnership with Prospects College and gave contractors the opportunity to network and hear about how we want to develop our relationship with them to help us deliver our priorities. “We want to award contracts to firms that not only provide good value for money but can

also demonstrate they will be of value to the community. “This event bridged the gap between Prospects College and local companies and will lead to more young people gaining valuable experience through apprenticeship schemes.” More than 20 contractors including, Mulalley, Vinci, Mitie and Wates, attended to hear about how the council is planning to deliver its priorities with their help. One of those priorities is to create employment and skills opportunities for young people in the borough. This event was one of a series of events run by the council with its partners to promote economic development, local employment and skills opportunities.

LOCAL SERVICE DIRECTORY Construction

Church

"FOR I KNOW THE PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU," declares the Lord. JER 29:11 Come and join us and get a warm welcome Every Sunday 10am and 6.30pm Sunday School 10am Midweek Fellowship Wednesday 1.45pm Manor Mission Church, Manor Road, Laindon, Basildon www.manormissionchurch.org.uk

Counselling

Dog Grooming

SYMPHONY SymphonyCONSTRUCTION ConStruCtion

SPECIALISING specialisingINin GROUNDWORK groundwork WE We ALSO SUPPLYand ANDfit FITkitchens KITCHENS supply DESIGNED AND MANUFACTURED IN designed and manufactured OUR FACTORY in our factory WE We ALSO SELLsell AGGREGATES FOR also aggregates BUILDING OR GARDENING FROM for building or gardening SHARP SAND, BALLAST, from sharp sand, TO TOPSOIL ballast, to topsoil

Callususon on07592339143 07592339143 Call

Your Ad Here

Southend Mind

For better mental health

MINDFUL COUNSELLING is an established Private Service set up by Basildon Mind and adheres to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy Codes of Ethics and Practice. All Counsellors are fully qualified to a minimum of Diploma Level. Counselling appointments can be offered outside of normal office hours. For further confidential information please telephone: Patricia Holdsworth B.Sc. Hons., Counselling Manager, on 01268 289344.

To advertise here call the Sponsorship Officer on 01268 294201 or email sponsorship@basildon. gov.uk. As with all Borough Diary adverts, publication does not imply any guarantee of service or recommendation by Basildon Borough Council.

SPRING 2014

COUNCILLOR SURGERIES Billericay East - Andrew Schrader 01268 541340, David Dadds 01277 829808, Stuart Sullivan 01268 560477. Surgery as Billericay West below. Billericay West - Anthony Hedley 01277 626198, Phil Turner 01277 633918, Daniel Lawrence 01277 657480. Last Saturday of the month (except December) 10.30am to noon at The Library, Billericay High Street. Burstead - Kevin Blake 01268 470597, Paul Arnold 07581 285525, Richard Moore 01277 627266. For details see the “In Touch” leaflet delivered to all households in Burstead Ward or contact by phone. Crouch - Stuart Allen 01268 284225, Terri Sargent 01268 288766. Surgeries on first Saturday of month, 9.30am to 10.30am, Noak Bridge Village Hall, Coppice Lane, Noak Bridge and third Saturday, 9am to 10am, Steeple View Memorial Hall, Willowfields. Fryerns - Alan Davies 01268 525406, Bill Archibald 01268 280593 & 07732 710088, Adele Brown -07791 109436. Laindon Park - John Dornan 01375 851639 & 07834 856231, Jilly Hyde 01268 414126, John Scarola 07984 943349. Langdon Hills - Sandra and Stephen Hillier 01268 490201. Lee Chapel North - Lynda Gordon 079673 33536, Nigel Smith 01268 545483, Alan Bennett 01277 626236. Nethermayne - Geoff Williams 01268 415348, Linda Williams 01268 415348. Surgeries on first Saturday of month at Vange Scout Hut, second Saturday at Kingswood Play Leadership building, third Saturday at Haven Close AP Scheme, fourth Saturday Lee Chapel South Comm. Centre, except August. All 10am to 11am. Andrew Gordon - 07817 865202, last Saturday of month at the Basildon Centre 2pm to 4pm. Pitsea North West - Ron Livesey 01268 470028. Roving surgery within the ward on the first Saturday of month. Keith Bobbin 01268 556158 or 07886 3573905, Gavin Callaghan 07908 698743 by appointment at The Place,Pitsea Leisure Centre, Northlands Pavement on second Saturday of month plus roving surgeries throughout ward. Pitsea South East - David Abrahall 01268 440082. Surgeries on second Monday of the month (except Bank Holidays), 6.30pm to 7.30pm, outside Pitsea Leisure Centre. NB. Private interview room available by appointment. Aidan McGurran 07710 613928 by appointment on second Saturday of month at The Place, Pitsea Leisure Centre plus roving surgeries. Mo Larkin 01268 494354 St Martin’s - Phil and Pat Rackley 01268 410700. Surgeries on first Monday and third Tuesday of month (except August), 2pm to 3pm at Basildon Community Resource Centre, 1 The Gore, Basildon. Vange - Daniel Munyambu 075515 26956. Byron Taylor 01268 419153. Wickford Castledon - Nigel Le Gresley 07831897731. Surgery on first Saturday of month (except Sept.), 10am to noon at Wickford Community Centre, Market Road, Wickford. Malcolm Buckley 01268 472586. Wickford North - Tony Ball 01268 454564, Carole Morris 01268 457488, Michael Mowe 01268 463564. Wickford Park - Don Morris 01268 457488, Chris Jackman 01268 571843.

More money up for grabs from £1m community fund

Parent 1st South Essex The Noak Bridge Nature Reserve Society

Langdon Hills Estate Residents Association

Redbacks Baseball & Softball

Gloucester Park Murryfield Bowling Club

£6.3m Felmores cladding project continues

Felmores cladding works

Work is continuing on a major project to replace wall cladding, upgrade external wall insulation and improve fire safety on a Basildon housing estate. Funding for £800,000 of additional works was approved last October and contractors Wates Living Space have completed external works and removed scaffolding on the properties affected by the Bockingham Green fire. Consultation has commenced with tenants on the estate and also with freeholders to determine whether or not they want to be involved in the programme. As a further fire safety measure the Council will be offering a free electrical inspection to freeholders and leaseholders in order to highlight any issues with the circuits and fittings. They will also be offering to install mains operated smoke alarms and modern consumer units at competitive rates. Cllr Phil Turner, deputy leader and cabinet member for housing, said: “I am delighted that our contractors have started and are well into the project. “Residents of Felmores are starting to see progress on the estate. This is a major project and will completely transform the estate. “Although the cladding is the most visible part of this project, it is only one part of the job, as scaffolding needs to be erected, and new insulation, fire membranes and fire barriers need to be installed before the actual cladding is fitted.”

Basildon Council’s Community Investment Fund has pledged almost £200,000 for various to local community organisations after a second round of applications were approved. This impressive sum means that groups including: Langdon Hills Estate Residents Association; Redbacks Baseball & Softball; Parent 1st South Essex; The Noak Bridge Nature Reserve Society; Gloucester Park Murryfield Bowling Club; Ramsden Bellhouse Village Hall; and The Badminton Academy have all been given ’a hand up’ as they provide much needed services and activities in the borough. Cllr Terri Sargent, cabinet

member for community said: “Congratulations to the successful applicants, it is wonderful to see so many local causes and groups coming forward for the Community Investment Fund.” “All local community and voluntary groups that provide services to the borough residents are encouraged to apply for the next round as there are still grants for projects available.” So far £408,521.28 has been pledged or awarded to local groups in the borough. For more information, and to download the guidance notes and application form, visit www.basildon.gov. uk/cif. Or, speak to the council’s funding officer on 01268 294303 or email janet.light@basildon.gov. uk

IS YOUR WARDROBE OVERFLOWING WITH FASHION MISTAKES?

JUST LET GO!

Clothes amnesty

#justletgo

Monday 24th March – Friday 4th April Get rid of those unwanted clothes in this special two week period and we promise not to call the fashion police about any flares or snazzy shirts that went out of fashion in the seventies! Basildon Council operates a free textile recycling service all year round – Bag up your unwanted clothes, shoes and textiles in a pink sack, put a textile sticker on and place outside your property on your collection day. For more information or to download textile stickers visit: www.basildon.gov.uk/justletgo

SPRING 2014

Basildon 2031

Last chance to have your say on vital plan for new homes & jobs Basildon Council has issued a final call for local people to have their say on one of the most important plans the Council puts together. After unveiling plans for the Borough’s future development and growth in January 2014 (Local Plan Core Strategy), and running eight public roadshows, leading Councillors are reminding residents that they have until March 18th to have their say online and register their comments on the Local Plan Core Strategy. Cllr Tony Ball, leader of the council, said: “We want as many residents

key facts and figures

and businesses as possible to have their say on this vital plan. The roadshows may have finished, but the plan can still be viewed in the Basildon Centre or at one of the Borough’s main libraries, and comments can be submitted until 5pm on Tuesday 18th March.”

Housing Requirement

We need to plan for 16,000 new homes to be built across Basildon between 2011 and 2031. 3,500 have already been built or granted planning permission, so 12,500 still need to be planned for. 3,400 can be built in the existing urban areas. Around 9,100 new homes need to be built on land that is currently designated as Green Belt.

16,000 New homes

Employment Requirement

Currently 63% of the total area of Basildon Borough is Green Belt and if all of the planned development goes ahead, 59% of the Borough will still be Green Belt. We need to plan for 49 hectares of new employment land which could create an additional 8,600 jobs for the Borough. 1 hectare of employment land has already been delivered and 37 hectares can be provided within the existing urban areas. The remaining 11 hectares will need to be found in the Green Belt.

8,600 New jobs

What is the Local Plan core strategy?

The Core Strategy sets out a framework for development up to 2031. It includes how many new homes and how much land for economic development will be needed if the Borough is to grow and prosper over the next 20 years.

The plan is based on Census information, independent advice and projected population growth. It has been found that 16,000 new homes will need to be built by 2031.

How can you have your say?

The recommend consultation por

Responses can al available to dow uk/basildon2031 to you on reque

Completed Com Planning Policy T Square, Basildon or emailed to pla

Contact Details If you have any q contact the Plan telephone 01268

n s

SPRING 2014

questions anD ANswers With the cabinet member for planning, Cllr Richard Moore Why do councils need to have a local plan? Having a realistic and credible plan is absolutely vital if we are to retain control over the development of our borough, now, and over the next twenty years. Not doing this would see development being done to us, in an unplanned, uncoordinated, and unacceptable way. The danger is that if we do not put a credible Local Plan in place, we will lose the ability to properly regulate future development in a way that is suitable for and sympathetic with the needs of our borough.

Why is the plan going to allow building on Green Belt land?

Cllr Richard Moore

Put simply, we do not have enough urban or brownfield land to deliver the 16,000 new homes that are required. We have been honest and upfront about the fact that we will have to give up some Green Belt land if we are to provide the new homes, opportunities and jobs that local people and their families need in the future. But letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s be very clear, our borough is currently 63% Green Belt - and even if all of the development set out in the plan were to take place by 2031, close to 60% of our borough will still be Green Belt. We are a very green borough and by 2031 this plan will ensure that we are still a very green borough, and one that has been sensitively developed.

Where is the development for new homes and jobs going to go? The Local Plan Core Strategy sets out three options on how this could be spread around the borough. The council is recommending a preferred option that would see growth accommodated proportionately between the main towns of Basildon, Billericay and Wickford with some development going to the villages of Crays Hill, Ramsden Bellhouse and Bowers Gifford and to the 13 Plotland areas. This option is what we are consulting on at the moment.

What about infrastructure like roads, schools, shops and GP surgeries? We know that more development will require upgrades to infrastructure. Having a Local Plan gives us control over future development, and I want to reassure residents and emphasis how it will also allow us and other service providers to plan better infrastructure that is needed to support new housing and businesses.

ded method is to submit your comments securely online via the rtal at http://basildon-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal.

lso be made by letter, email or on the Comments Form which is wnload and print from the Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website www.basildon.gov. 1; picked up from a main library, and the Basildon Centre; or sent est.

mments Forms and any other comments should be sent to: Team, Planning Services, Basildon Borough Council, St Martinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s n, Essex, SS14 1DL anningpolicy@basildon.gov.uk.

queries or are unable to complete the questionnaire please nning Policy Team at planningpolicy@basildon.gov.uk or 8 294868.

We know that to deliver the anticipated growth and create opportunity, infrastructure such as schools, health facilities and transport improvements will be vital. The Local Plan allows us to plan for that properly. As part of the work, we are producing an Infrastructure Delivery Plan that will look at the infrastructure needs across the entire borough and help ensure that we invest in the right things alongside or before development begins.

Next Steps All comments received during the consultation period will be taken into consideration when preparing the next stage of the Local Plan Core Strategy later in 2014, before we submit it to central Government.

SPRING 2014

For tickets and information, call the Box Office on 01268 465465 or visit www.towngatetheatre.co.uk WHAT’S ON AT THE TOWNGATE

towngate celebrates EIGHT years of SHOWBIZ The Towngate Theatre is celebrating its eighth birthday since it relaunched in April 2006, and is promising bigger and better shows for 2014 and beyond. The Towngate, which first opened in 1989, has seen some well known names in the last eight years such as Soul Queen Mica Paris, Billy Ocean, Des ‘O’ Connor, and Formula One star Johnny Herbert. Our hugely popular annual family Christmas pantomime is a special attraction for residents and the highlight of the year. Most recently Lee Hurst Celebrity Big Brother Winner 2014 Jim Davidson and Richard Digance performed to a sell out audience, and world famous violinist Nigel Kennedy put on a very special show. Coming up on 6th November 2014, the Towngate Theatre will also be hosting three-time Grammy nominated British Blues artist, Joan Armatrading as she embarks on her first solo tour. Providing the best live entertainment in the borough, the Towngate is also home to a number of amateur dramatic groups and dance schools who put on performances throughout the year alongside our professional shows. Theatre visitor numbers have gone from strength to strength, with over 120,000 people through our doors to see a show last year. Cllr Kevin Blake, cabinet member for leisure and arts at said: “The Towngate Theatre has had a fantastic year and much of this is down to the great entertainment that we provide here in Basildon. “I want to personally thank all of our customers for supporting their local theatre over the last eight years, as well as the staff, management and

volunteers for their hard work in providing a good service that keeps audiences returning. “The Towngate with its modern look and the new Café Bar added to the shows we put Dominic Kirwan on have been a huge attraction drawing customers, not just locally, but from across the country. “I look forward to the forthcoming year and seeing the theatre’s audience continue to grow.” With so many more great shows to come this year, why not visit our website to see ‘What’s on’. With online ticket booking and subscription to our free mailing list, customers can keep you up to date with the latest news and offers at the Towngate, and book their tickets quickly and securely via our website: www.towngatetheatre.co.uk.

March American Superslam Wrestling Sun 30 @ 3pm - Tickets: £10, £15, £45 April Lee Hurst - Things That Make You Go Aaarggh Thurs 3 @ 7.30pm – Tickets £16 Could You?.. Beat The Beast Wed 2 @ 7.30pm - Tickets: £17.50 ‘Allo ‘Allo! presented by The Basildon Players Thurs 10 - Sat 12 @ 8pm - Tickets £12 Adults / £10 Concession / or £60 for 6 Alan Williams of The Rubettes - An Intimate Acoustic Evening Sat 19 @ 7.30pm - Tickets: £12.50 The Super Sonic 70s Show Fri 25 @ 8pm - Tickets £12.50 May Jerry Lee Lewis Meets Buddy Holly Tribute Show Fri 16 @ 8.00pm - Tickets £12.50 June Dominic Kirwan Sun 1 @ 7.30pm - Tickets £19.50 Billy Pearce UK Tour 2014 Tues 3 @ 7.30pm – tickets £18.50 August The ZZ Tops Fri 8 @ 8:00pm - Tickets £12.50

Auditorium

Booking your theatre tickets online IS easY! Sign up for an account with four simple steps: 1. Visit our website at www.towngatetheatre.co.uk 2. Sign-up for a Towngate Theatre online account 3. Choose your own seats for the show/s you wish to see 4. Book and pay online for tickets and receive your e-tickets by email When you sign up for an account you will automatically be subscribed to our mailing list. Subscribers receive a twice yearly brochure, emails on upcoming shows at the Towngate, and information on special offers including any pre-show meals and special events. You can add or remove yourself from the Towngate Theatre mailing list at any time. We will not pass your online account details to any third party organisations or companies. For our terms and conditions see our online ticket booking terms and conditions at www.towngatetheatre.co.uk.

September The Day The Music Died - 55th Anniversary Buddy Holly Celebration Fri 12 @ 7.30pm - Tickets: £17.50 Money for Nothing - Dire Straits tribute Sat 13 @ 8pm - Tickets £12.50 October Blake Wed 8 @ 7.30pm tickets £22.00 The Billy Fury Years Thurs 9 @ 7.30pm - Tickets £19.50 The JAM’D- Tribute to The Jam Sat 18 @ 8pm - Tickets £12.50

Book your tickets online today www.towngatetheatre.co.uk or call 01268 465465

SPRING 2014

get ahead in life with free maths and english courses A mission to help residents get ahead has seen Basildon Council join forces with a local college and county council. The campaign to help residents improve their English and Maths skills by gaining basic qualifications was launched by the council, Essex County Council and South Essex College in January. Cllr Tony Ball, leader of the council explained the reasons for the campaign: “Basic attainment levels for Maths and

English within the Borough are very low. We wanted to do something about it as a group and encourage people to take up free courses in Maths and English which will improve their job prospects and life skills, that may help them to read their child a bedroom story, for instance.” David Bissett, Adult Functional Skills Manager at South Essex College, said: “This is a fantastic scheme that will help adults gain the confidence and skills to improve

their life skills both at home and work. “We know there are lots more people out there locally who want help but don’t know where to turn, so hopefully we can help even more people than ever before as a result of this campaign.” If you know someone who may benefit from a free English and/or Maths course, ask them to visit www.basildon.gov.uk/ skillsforlife or text BASILDON to 88020 to find out more or sign up for a course.

Did you know? 51,000 adults do not have entry level 2 literacy skills 26,000 do not have entry level 3 numeracy skills.

Don’t lose your right to vote! BASILDON borough residents are being urged to register now to avoid losing their right to vote. Basildon Council’s returning officer and chief executive, Bala Mahendran said: “Thursday 22 May is the chance for residents to have their say at Basildon Borough Council and European Parliamentary elections. We want everyone eligible to vote to be able to do so. “Anyone who has moved house in the past few months needs to register with their new address. “We’re also keen for anyone turning 18 on or before 22 May to make sure they are registered, so they can vote

for the first time.” Borough council elections will take place in all wards except St Martin’s and Vange wards. There will also be an election for Bowers Gifford and North Benfleet Parish Council. If you are unsure whether you are registered, contact the Electoral Registration Office at The Basildon Centre as soon as possible on 01268 294669. Completed application forms to register to vote in time for the forthcoming elections must be received by Tuesday 6 May.

, t i F t e G , t n e d fi n o C l e Fe ! y h t l a e H e

Do you want to:

Keep fit to lose weight? Build muscle? Motivate yourself to exercise?

The Pulse Health Studio offers its customers: • Free personal fitness programme • Fully equipped Pulse Health Studio • Pulse Fitness and Zumba Classes Monthly gym membership from £16 / Pay as you go from £3 per session Fitness classes from £3 per session.

Pulse Health Studio normal opening times: Monday to Friday 9am - 10pm Saturday 9am - 6pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

New s chan howers & ging room s

For more information please call 01268 465420 or visit our website: www.basildon.gov.uk/theplace

The closing date for receipt of postal vote applications is 5pm on Wednesday 7 May. Anyone wishing to stand as a candidate at the local elections needs to complete a nomination paper, which is available from the Elections Office, the council’s website (www.basildon.gov.uk/elections) or Electoral Commission’s website (www.electoralcommission.org.uk). The deadline for receipt of nominations is 4pm on 24 April. An information booklet for anyone interested in standing for election is available on the council’s website or by contacting Electoral Services on 01268 294669.

SPRING 2014

Free food safety training for cafe volunteers The Basildon Family Project is offering free food safety training for residents interested in volunteering at Wickford’s community cafe. Supported by Basildon Council, the project recently trained seven people in food safety and is now looking for more residents who want to get the necessary training to volunteer at the cafe once construction has finished (see page 13 for details on the new cafe coming to Wickford). For more information on training and/ or volunteering opportunities at the café once opened, contact the Basildon Family Project’s neighbourhood coordinator on 07715752648 or email grant.taylor@basildon. gov.uk

WAT a wedding AT WAT TYLER! Wat Tyler Country Park is the perfect venue to hire for all occasions. We have experience in hosting a range of social and corporate functions at our venue which is situated in 125 acres of attractive Country Park land Our venue has generous parking and is easily accessible with a wide choice of hotel accommodation nearby. Corporate & social function hire We offer a great choice of spaces for business and community groups to host a wide range of corporate or social functions. The Wat Tyler Centre and Green Centre are the perfect venue to host events such as: • Open days • Exhibitions • Award ceremonies • Board meetings • Training sessions • Away days

Wat Tyler Country Park weddings

Our venue has the Nobel Room which seats up to 250 and 140 reception style, the Diamond Suites 1 & 2, suitable for up to 120 people, and Solar Room 1 seats up to 60. All of our rooms are fully accessible and we can also offer full catering if required. Bittern Room: Wat Tyler Centre Capacity: 20 seats boardroom style 40 theatre style The Bittern Room is the perfect space to hold small conferences and seminars. Carstairs Room: The Green Centre Capacity: 250 seats theatre style 140 reception style All our rooms have full catering facilities if required. For any hire enquiries, bookings or for further information call Wat Tyler Country Park on 01268 550088 or email info@wattylercountrypark.org.uk. You can also visit our website at www. wattylercountrypark.org.uk

Wat Tyler Country Park has an array of beautiful venues for a wide range of wedding ceremonies and receptions. With first-class facilities and its historical connections, our exceptional venue will be the perfect place for you to exchange your vows or continue your wedding celebrations after the ceremony. Our Country Park features a stunning landscape created over centuries and sets the scene to capture on camera those special moments of your dream wedding day. Edward and Jenifer Hemingway, from Basildon were the first couple to get married at Wat Tyler Country Park in August 2010. The happy couple who will be celebrating their fourth wedding anniversary this summer got married in the eighteenth century barn which is located in the Country Park. Mrs Hemingway said: “We chose to exchange our vows at Wat Tyler because of the venue’s beautiful surroundings and because it was easily accessible for our guests. “The team were extremely friendly and helpful which made the usually nervous preparations enjoyable. We are glad that we chose to get married in the eighteenth century heritage barn as we feel we have made our own bit of history together.” For further information about booking a wedding or reception at Wat Tyler Country Park and for more on our catering offer call 01268 550088. Alternatively you can send us an e-mail to weddings@basildon.gov.uk. You can also visit our website at www.wattylercountrypark.org.uk

Council tax payments made easy Take the hassle out of remembering to pay your Council Tax, by paying the easy way – the Direct Debit way! Basildon Council offers four dates for your monthly payment, 6th, 14th, 22nd or 28th so choose the one that best suits you. You can also choose to pay over either ten or 12 months. Direct Debit is convenient, safe and reliable and you can be reassured your payment is secure by the Direct Debit Guarantee offered by all banks and building societies. Call us on 01268 502424 or visit at www. basildon.gov.uk to set up your Direct Debit payment. Remember to have your Council Tax account and bank details ready.

VISIT US AT: Wat Tyler Country Park Pitsea Hall Lane Pitsea Basildon Essex SS16 4UH Tel: 01268 550088

Nominate your Council hero!

Basildon Council is once again teaming up with the Basildon Echo for the annual staff awards which recognises the contributions that council staff make to help improve the lives of local people. A number of awards are up for grabs, but there is a special award that we want local people to nominate staff for. The ‘Improving Lives’ award is reserved for public nominations and recognises a council worker or team who deliver great customer service to the local community, or go that extra mile to make someone’s life better. Do you know a sheltered housing officer that stops you worrying about a loved one? Maybe you can

think of a parks officer who is always friendly and helpful? Have you dealt with a council employee who has delivered great customer service? Who deserves recognition? To make a nomination visit www.basildon.gov.uk/ improvinglives to use our quick and easy nomination form. Then you can see if your nominee was a winner by following the awards coverage in the Echo newspaper. Nominations close on 28th March at 5pm. If you have any questions or you would like to send supporting documents to accompany your nomination, please email them to michael.hurcum@basildon.gov. uk with “Staff Awards - your nominee’s name” as the email title. For any general queries call 01268 294526.

SPRING 2014

get ready to pop in to the poppy pavillion Wickford students named and created a logo for the new cafe

Wickford’s community café now has a name and logo, thanks to a group of Wickford students. The name “Poppy Pavilion Memorial Park Café” is the brainchild of Mitchell Fulker-Rowland and Caitlin Ride from Beauchamps Secondary School, and Neave Kemp from Hilltop Junior School. It came about after a competition, organised by local residents, the Basildon Family project (BFP)and Groundworks South East, was held for local children. Supported by Basildon Council, the café is one initiative from the BFP which looks at how public organisations can help improve the lives of families who face challenging circumstances. Once completed, the community café will also act as a volunteering hub and training centre for local young

people to gain experience of the working world, develop Wickford’s newest community café! “Building work for Poppy Pavillion Memorial Park Café new skills and earn qualifications. A job club is will also to be run at the cafe once open, is well underway and a lease for running the café is offering a drop in session for people to get help writing expected to be signed soon.” For more information or to volunteer at the café their CVs, guidance on completing job application forms, interview advice, basic IT support and information and once opened, contact the Basildon Family Project’s neighbourhood coordinator on 07715 752648 or email advice on benefits and other support available. Caitlin Ride of Beauchamps High School said: “I came grant.taylor@basildon.gov.uk up with the idea for the slogan after thinking about how the café is located in Wickford Memorial Park so although it is something new, we are still remembering those that died for us in the war.” Mitchell Fulker-Rowland of Beauchamps High School commented: “I came up with the name quite quickly. We wanted people to remember that while they are having fun at the park and the DO you work or own a small covered as part of business rates café, that it is still about remembrance and that is why poppies are used in the business in the Borough? Basildon and individual businesses need design”. Council provides a friendly, to appoint a contractor to make Neave Kemp of Hilltop Junior School, reliable service which is flexible sure they are meeting their legal who designed the logo, said: “We are to your needs, with collections obligations – Basildon Council really looking forward to having the café completed so there will be more available up to six days a week. provides a flexible, friendly and activities in the area for young people There are also no hidden charges reliable service to meet your to do.” - what we quote you is what you business waste needs – for a free, Basildon Council’s cabinet member for will pay. no obligation quote call 01268 community services, Cllr Terri Sargent, Waste collections are not 294933. said: “Thanks to Wickford students we now have a name and logo for

Waste collection solutions – For your business

SPRING 2014

best of the borough competition We’re looking for the best of Basildon borough! If you fancy yourself a budding photographer, enter our readers’ competition by snapping what you think is the best of Basildon! Send us your photo of the borough, your name, and a few words on why you think your photo represents the best of Basildon borough and we’ll print what

we think are the best ones in the next edition of the Borough Diary! You can enter as many times as you like via our Facebook page and Twitter feed. Or you can enter once via email address pressoffice@basildon.gov.uk Competition closes Friday 4 April 2014.

Facebook: Search Basildon Council

Twitter: www.twitter.com/basildoncouncil

give us your views & suggestions Basildon Borough Council is inviting residents to share their views and suggestions. An important part of the council’s decision making process is the monitoring and review of the activities and decisions of the Council and its partners. This is called Overview and Scrutiny. One of the ways that Overview and Scrutiny takes place is through the use of reviews (called Task and Finish reviews) which rely on the views and suggestions of the local people who live in the borough. A Task and Finish review will see a group of

councillors carry out a detailed examination of a council policy or service, or any other issue which affects the residents of the borough. Residents are now being given the chance to submit suggestions for councillors to consider as possible reviews in the coming year. A suggestion for a Scrutiny Review must affect a group of people living in the borough, relate to a service, event or issue in which the council has a significant stake or over which the council has an influence. For instance, the council recently looked at issues

Genocide victims remembered Over 120 people gathered to remember the victims of genocide at Basildon’s Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) event in January. Organised by Basildon Forum of Faiths and supported by Basildon Council, the event included a theatre production by Bafta -winning playwright Roy Williams. A one minute silence was held at the Basildon Centre, St Martin’s Square, and Basildon mayor, Cllr Mo Larkin joined other residents on the day to sign the Book of Commitment.

affecting Brooke House residents (see page 6, “Council Responds to Brooke House Concerns”). There are a number of areas that cannot be subject to a Scrutiny Task and Finish Review mainly because there are statutory appeal procedures already set up to handle these, for example, public entertainment licensing, housing benefit appeals, or appeals against planning decisions. To submit a suggestion please email scrutiny@ basildon.gov.uk or call 01268 294440. Further information on Overview and Scrutiny can be found at www.basildon.gov.uk/scrutiny

join the conversation Residents and businesses in the borough can keep up-todate with the latest council news whilst at home, work or on-the-move by following us our online social media pages. Users of Twitter and Facebook can ‘follow’ and ‘like’ the Basildon Council pages to see news from across the council, as well

as information on events, and shows coming up at the Towngate Theatre. Other exclusive features include regular tips about emergency planning, recycling, cab safety, food waste and weather warnings. To join the 3,700+ people in our social media community, search Basildon Council on Twitter and Facebook.

Facebook: Search Basildon Council Basildon mayor Mo Larkin and cabinet member for communities, Cllr Terri Sargent at the event

Twitter: www.twitter.com/basildoncouncil

save money on your energy bills - switch! A ban on complex tariffs is now in force which could save residents, who have never switched before, more than £200 per year. In the biggest shake up to the market since competition was introduced in the late nineties, the reforms aim to make the energy market simpler, clearer and fairer while reducing household energy bills around the Borough. Under new laws suppliers can now only

offer customers a maximum of four tariffs for gas and four for electricity and all firms must structure their tariffs in two tiers, as a single unit rate and a standing charge, these changes make it easier for consumers to compare and find the best deals. Customers on fixed term deals will remain on that tariff until it finishes, increasing the prices during the contract period is now banned and automatically rolling householders on to another fixed-term offer will no longer be allowed. At this end point, suppliers should automatically put you on the cheapest standard tariff

available but it can be worth shopping around for better deals April will see further reforms to give consumers clearer, more personalised information on energy. Suppliers will for the first time have to write to customers regularly informing them which of their tariffs is cheapest. Basildon Borough Citizens Advice Bureau can provide further advice, help and support especially for anyone struggling to pay their bills. You can find out more, including our opening times, by visiting www.adviceguide.org.uk or www.bascab. org.uk

SPRING 2014

mountains of Christmas and new year recycling collected Recycling rates over the Christmas period did not disappoint as residents made the most of their recycling collections. Borough residents recycled 3094 tonnes of material in December and early January – 123 tonnes per collection day! This covers all material collected through Basildon Council’s kerbside recycling schemes – the weekly pink sack for cardboard, cans, plastic and paper, the weekly green bin for food and garden waste and the fortnightly orange box for glass bottles and jars.

New Year honours for local councillors

Cllr John Dornan, cabinet member for environment, said: “This is a fantastic effort from all residents across the borough and a great start to the New Year. “We aim to make our recycling services easy to use and it is great to see so many residents doing their bit.” To find out more about recycling, and how to make the most of the Council’s recycling services visit the council’s website at www.basildon.gov.uk/ recycling

BASILDON deputy mayor Danny Lawrence and ward councillor for Nethermayne, Geoff Williams, have received accolades in the New Year honours. Cllr Danny Lawrence has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his commendable service to community radio and Cllr Geoff Williams is to receive an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) for services to local government.

Cllr Tony Ball, leader of Basildon Council, said: “Councillors Lawrence and Williams have both made a valuable contribution to the community. “Cllr Lawrence has been at the forefront of community radio while Cllr Williams has been involved in local politics since 1979. “This is a very proud moment for the borough and I would like to congratulate them both on this achievement.” Cllr Lawrence, who is director

Cardboard recycling

of the Community Media Association (CMA) and president of the Rotary Club of Corringham Thameside, has worked in community radio for 11 years, six of which have been spent at Basildon’s Gateway 97.8. During Danny’s time at Gateway 97.8 the station has won the Big Society award and Queen’s award for voluntary service. Previously at Garrison Radio that he broadcast to troops in

Afghanistan and was able to relay messages from the front line to the families of soldiers in the UK. Geoff Williams, leader of the Liberal Democrat group, first became involved in local politics in 1979 and won his first Nethermayne seat in 1981. Cllr Williams, who was a language teacher at Thurrock College, lost the seat in 1984 and won it back in 1986, retaining it ever since.

Over 50, Not Over The Hill! There’s never a dull moment for over 50s residents at the George Hurd Centre! Providing activities, day trips, and an opportunity for locals to socialise, the newly developed building in Audley Way is within easy walking distance of Basildon Town Centre, and has a regular bus service and onsite parking facilities available. The Activity Centre, run by Basildon Council and dedicated centre staff, offer various activities such as bingo, bridge, snooker, chess and short mat bowls, as well as offering art, pottery and other craft sessions. Cabinet member for Community, Cllr Terri Sargent said: “Our Activity Centre offer a variety of active sessions to help keep members fit and healthy including yoga, salsa, ballroom dancing and even Zumba.

Providing reassurance at the touch of a button Keep fit at the George Hurd Centre

With coach trips often arranged during the year to West End shows, the seaside and other places of interest, being a member is never dull!” The centre can also provide prebooked lunchtime meals at a small cost, as well as a tea and coffee bar. For more information, or to become a member, please call 01268 465854.

THE PLACE FOR roller disco Looking for some Easter holiday fun for all of the family? Why not come along to The Place, Pitsea roller disco sessions this April. Held at Northlands Pavement on Thursday 10 April, sessions are just £3 each and includes one session plus skate

hire and a disco. The sessions run from 11am to noon, noon to 1pm, 1 to 2pm, 2 to 3pm and are suitable for all ages. Tickets available now call 01268 465420. Booking early is recommended.

If you are elderly, live alone, or feel vulnerable because of a disability, medical condition or harassment, Basildon Careline could help you feel safe, secure and independent in your own home. Basildon Careline can supply you with an alarm pendant for your peace of mind and additional sensors such as a smoke or carbon monoxide detector, bogus caller button and other items which are available to maximise your safety and independence.

To find out more call 01268 465151 or visit www.basildon.gov.uk/ careline

SPRING 2014

new sports AREA for steeple View A NEW £40,000 multi-use sports area has been installed in Steeple View park. The new facility was paid for out of Cllr Kevin Blake’s leisure and arts budget. The new multi-use sports area, which is situated behind Latimer Drive, Laindon, includes football goals, basketball hoops and cricket stumps with a new tarmac surface and steel fence around it. It will also be marked out with a 5-a-side football and basketball pitch/court once the weather dries out. Cllr Kevin Blake, cabinet member for leisure and arts, said: “The old base and fence was in poor condition and we felt it was time an investment was made into this facility ahead of the summer. “Where we have been prudent in the past it has made it possible to invest here and I am pleased with the outcome, which is another top quality sport and leisure facility for the young people of this borough. “I would like to thank ward members Cllrs Terri Sargent and Stuart Allen for pushing this project forward. They have been instrumental in making this happen.” Nick Sears, Basildon Council’s senior parks development and horticultural officer at the newly refurbished multi-use sports area

Billericay pool set for major investment An investment of £150,000 will be made in Billericay Pool over the next year. The money will be spent on new pool hall flooring and improvements to changing facilities. The investment follows the £2.4m

project to refurbish Wickford swimming pool which will be completed in the Autumn and the opening of the £38m Sporting Village in April 2011. Cllr Kevin Blake, cabinet member for leisure and arts, says: “Following on from our previous and ongoing multi-million

pound investments in our leisure facilities that are attracting more and more visitors every year, this will mean our borough will boast three great swimming and leisure facilities spread across the Borough. “Add to that our other great facilities like the Towngate Theatre and Wat Tyler

Country Park and the Borough really is blessed with great facilities for residents and visitors. “I am delighted that we are making this investment that we will claim back anyway through a pay back agreement with the leaseholder.”

lots to do for pitsea’s basildon’s top over 50s too! for swimming

Pitsea’s over 50s residents get active and creative with Bowles and Craft sessions at Pitsea Activity Centre. If you are interested in joining the Activity Centre call 01268 465 432 for details on membership or visit www.basildon.gov.uk

Printed on recycled paper. Please recycle your Borough Diary after reading.

People in Basildon go swimming more often than anywhere else in the county, according to figures from Sport England, which show almost one in ten residents in the borough swim at least once a week. Cllr Kevin Blake, cabinet member for leisure and arts said it was a reflection of the facilities available to local residents: “We’ve always been clear about what a first-class facility we have here at the Basildon Sporting Village, both for the local community and elite athletes, but it’s always nice for that to be borne out with figures showing that people swim in Basildon more than anywhere else in the county. “The Sporting Village is a great centralised facility which serves the entire borough, and I can only see these figures going up when the planned refurbishment of Wickford pool is completed in April 2014.”

Basildon Borough Council, The Basildon Centre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex, SS14 1DL. Website: www.basildon.gov.uk Switchboard: 01268 533333 Email: mailroom@basildon.gov.uk Chief Executive: Bala Mahendran Leader: Councillor Tony Ball