inside:
• What’s on • Help shape a better future Your District Council • Top marks for city’s park • Win a Treasure Island treat issue 28
autumn 2012
Matters
Lancaster Firework Spectacular 2012 - page 3 Keeping you warm this winter – page 15
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Welcome... ...to the latest edition of Your District Council Matters. The current economic conditions both locally and nationally are increasingly challenging for us all. Your public services will continue to work together to manage the austerity measures required. It's not going to be easy but we are determined to ensure the district is well placed for the future, providing good value for money services that are important to our communities and ensuring the most vulnerable are supported. Lancaster City Council, Lancashire County Council, NHS North Lancashire, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust, Lancashire Fire and Rescue, Lancashire Constabulary and Lancaster and Morecambe College, have joined together once again to hear your views. Families are at the heart of our society and we have been inviting all families, be they those caring for an elderly relative or those with children, to share their views on what services most matter to them. The findings will help public sector organisations ensure our resources are targeted at the areas that make the most difference to you. The outcomes of last year's listening events demonstrated the strong pride we have for our district. As a result, we have launched ,a campaign to celebrate and enjoy our district and encourage us all to do what we can to make sure we continue to live and work in a place we can be proud of. For more information visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/takepride
Remembrance Sunday THIS year Remembrance Sunday falls on November 11 and a number of services have been arranged in the Lancaster district. Remembrance Day Services will take place as follows:
Lancaster Garden of Remembrance, Town Hall, Lancaster commencing at 10.20am, followed by a service in the Priory Church at 11.30am. There will be a parade and March Past leaving the Priory Church at approximately 12.25pm ending at Lancaster Town Hall.
ceremony at the Cenotaph. To help people to pay their respects, Lancaster City Council has suspended parking charges on the car parks at the Bay Arena in Morecambe and Nelson Street in Lancaster, on Sunday November 11. For further information about the services or to express an interest in laying a wreath contact the Mayor’s Office, Town Hall, Lancaster, LA1 1PJ, call (01524) 582070 or email mayor@lancaster.gov.uk
Morecambe Cenotaph, Marine Road – Procession will form up at the Platform at approximately 10.20am for a Service at the Cenotaph at 10.55am.
Carnforth Parade will leave the Carnforth Town Council offices at 10.35am for a service and wreath laying
Holocaust Memorial Day A candlelight commemoration and service will take place on Thursday, January 24 in the Garden of Remembrance, Lancaster Town Hall at 6.30pm. Everyone welcome to attend.
Have your say
Contact us
WOULD you like to have your say on Lancaster City Council services?
You can contact Lancaster City Council by:
Join our ‘Voice Your Views’ panel to receive email alerts when consultations of interest to you go live.
Email: customerservices@ lancaster.gov.uk
To sign up simply visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/haveyou rsay or contact the council’s Consultation and Engagement Officer by email: haveyoursay@lancaster.gov.uk or contact us on 01524 582000.
Telephone: 01524 582000
Website: www.lancaster.gov.uk Post: Lancaster City Council, Town Hall, Dalton Square, Lancaster, LA1 1PJ In person: Customer Service Centres at Lancaster Town Hall (Dalton Square), or Morecambe Town Hall (Marine Road East), 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday.
If you would like a large print or audio version of Your District Council Matters please call 01524 582041 or email communications@lancaster.gov.uk
This month’s front cover features Autumn walking in the Crook O’Lune, Halton.
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Lancaster Firework Spectacular 2012 – don’t miss out! EXCITING new plans for this year's Lancaster Fireworks Spectacular will see the display being launched – for the first time ever - from the roof of Lancaster Castle. This year’s pyrotechnic spectacular takes place at 8pm on Saturday, November 3. Thanks to the Duchy of Lancaster allowing firing to take place from the castle, you’ll be able to view the display from hundreds of locations across the district. In fact, if you can see a section of Lancaster Castle and tune into BBC Radio Lancashire on 104.5FM, you’ll be able to listen to the specially coordinated music and experience the full spectacle. Due to the popularity of last year’s event, which attracted record crowds, a wristband system has been introduced for entry at the Quay Meadow and Giant Axe viewing areas to ensure everyone can enjoy an
unspoiled view of the fireworks. The deadline to apply for free wristbands has now closed, but you can still view the display from other official viewing areas at: • Salt Ayre Sport Centre - enjoy the spectacular view across the river with free parking, refreshments and Taylor’s Funfair. • Millennium Bridge and cycle path alongside the River Lune (opposite St George’s Quay) • Williamson Park And don’t forget that the Fireworks Spectacular is just the culmination of the celebrations. The activities kick off on Friday November 2 with ‘Light Up Lancaster’, brought to you by arts organisations from across the district. The event invites you to stroll through Lancaster’s squares and enjoy performances of music, art and dance. The following day, November 3, there will be daytime events to
enjoy including guided walks and tours, storytelling and arts and crafts before the fireworks themselves at 8pm. For a full programme of events, visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/fireworks or pick up a copy from Visitor Information Centres at Lancaster and Morecambe. Please remember that alcohol and fireworks (including sparklers) cannot be brought to the official viewing areas. As in previous years, the castle and priory precinct will be closed during the display.
Plans for Lancaster Castle move a step closer FOLLOWING a six-month study by heritage experts Malcolm Reading Consultants (MRC) and workshops with key stakeholders, potential plans for Lancaster Castle have moved a step closer. Ideas for the historic landmark will be presented to the public at an exhibition, which will take place at Lancaster Castle from Monday, October 29 – Friday, November 2 2012. Members of the local community will be able to provide their feedback and speak to Duchy and MRC representatives. The Duchy wants to give the castle a sustainable future by preserving its fabric and encouraging people to use the building and its grounds. It is proposed therefore, that the castle complex is transformed
into a new mixed-use urban quarter, which could include a potential visitor attraction, boutique hotel, plus arts and performance space. Paul Clarke, CEO at the Duchy of Lancaster, said: “We are really looking forward to sharing our ideas with the local community. “We still have a long way to go in terms of finalising the plans to ensure that the vision is financially viable and deliverable, but this initial proposal is a major step forward. We are confident that our ideas would enable Lancaster Castle to become a powerful new tourist attraction that would significantly boost the local economy, create jobs and transform the use of the city centre for residents and visitors.” The exhibition will run from
10am – 5pm each day except on Wednesday, October 31 and Thursday, November 1 when opening hours will extend until 7pm.
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Top marks for city’s park? WILLIAMSON Park in Lancaster has been successful in obtaining VAQAS (Visitor Attraction Quality Assurance Scheme) accreditation from VisitEngland which rated the park as an ‘excellent’ visitor attraction. The assessors were extremely impressed with the service provided by both the venue and the council following a secret shopping exercise which tested not only the venue but also the service received from staff. Highlights were the Butterfly House – being one of the most unique in the country and the management of the grounds as well as excellent signage.
New dog control orders
Could your voluntary group benefit from a cash windfall? VOLUNTARY groups across the Lancaster district are invited to apply for funding from Lancaster City Council’s welfare grant scheme. Welfare grants are for voluntary organisations who in their communities and whose activities include providing recreation, meals and special events for older people. The maximum grant per organisation is £500. Application forms, further information, and the criteria applied to the scheme are available by telephoning 01524 582074, from Morecambe and Lancaster Town Halls, and on the city council’s website: www.lancaster.gov.uk/welfaregrants. The closing date for applications is Friday, December 7 2012. • Dog owners must remove dog faeces from all land that the public has access to • Dogs are not allowed on enclosed sports pitches, children’s playgrounds or the splash pool in Happy Mount Park • Dogs must be put and kept on a lead when directed to do so by an officer authorised in writing by the council Dogs must also be kept on leads in the following defined areas in the district: • All public highways, pavements and adjoining verges, including Morecambe promenade and pedestrianised areas (but excluding unclassified minor rural roads)
NEW dog control orders are now in place to ensure dog owners behave responsibly and keep their dogs under control in public places.
• Car parks and public vehicle parking areas maintained by the council • Cemeteries and graveyards • Certain council parks and gardens
The new orders replace the existing byelaws. Failure to comply with the orders could result in a fixed penalty notice of £80 being issued.
The council has also agreed that the dog exclusion areas on Morecambe’s North and South beaches will continue to be seasonal rather than all year round.
Following a public consultation earlier in the year, the following orders have been put in place:
For further information please visit www.lancaster. gov.uk/dogwardens or telephone 01524 582935.
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Launch of Lancaster Arts City DO you want to find out more about exciting arts events taking place in the Lancaster district? Worry not. Key local arts organisations and venues have joined together to develop 'Lancaster Arts City' - a project showcasing arts activity taking place right here on our doorstep.
First Fridays Take a chance on something new with this programme of arts events taking place on the first Friday of every month at venues throughout the district. The next 'First Friday' will take place on November 2 with 'Light Up Lancaster' (see page 3). This event will mark the start of a weekend of themed activities and events leading up to this year’s Firework Spectacular and invites you to stroll through the city’s squares and alleyways by night and celebrate our heritage through illuminating performances of music, art and dance.
Free mobile Smartphone app Download your free mobile app for event information for comedy, music, theatre, dance, exhibitions and family productions. Participating venues include The Dukes, Grand Theatre, The Platform, More Music, Ludus Dance, Live at LICA, Litfest, Green Close Studios and Storey Gallery. For more information on ‘First Fridays’ and to download your free app visit www.artscity.co.uk
It’s your business to have your say BUSINESSES are being invited to have their say on an opportunity to work together to improve the city. Lancaster District Chamber of Commerce plans are well underway to provide the businesses with the chance to introduce a Business Improvement District (BID) in the city centre. The aim of the Lancaster Unlimited BID is that businesses work together to provide services over and above those already provided by public services. This could be additional marketing and promotional initiatives, special projects to utilise empty shops, new events to attract more visitors, funding major clean up campaigns or other environmental improvements.
the proposal; and • The ‘yes’ votes must represent more than 50% of the total rateable value of all votes cast. If a yes vote is delivered, this BID will raise more than £600,000 during a three year period which will help create a vibrant centre alive with events, activities and encourage local people to in their heritage and culture. The local businesses involved in introducing the BID are urging others not to waste their vote and help make Lancaster the city it deserves to be. To find out more, visit www.lancasterbid.org or find Lancaster BID on Facebook.
Money will be raised through a levy on business ratepayers with property in the BID area with a rateable value of £10,000 and over. Business ratepayers will be asked to vote on whether they want to pay an additional 1.5% of this rateable value to finance business led initiatives. The BID ballot is scheduled to take place from 1 – 29 November this year. For the BID to go ahead, two conditions must be met: • More than 50% of businesses who vote must vote in favour of
Love your food? LANCASTER City Council is delighted to support a new food and drink trail. Produced by Bay Tourism Association, the body representing tourism businesses, the handy guide features 42 of the region’s best culinary outlets along with a helpful map outlining how to reach each one. Pick up a copy from our visitor information centres at Lancaster and Morecambe or visit www.citycoastcountryside.co.uk
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Tell Us Once LOSING a loved one is a traumatic time for everyone and there’s enough to be done without having to worry about contacting
all the different government departments and agencies that need to be informed.
to use the service, the Registrar will set up the deceased’s details on a national database.
In November last year, the council teamed up with the Department of Work and Pensions and Lancashire County Council to launch the Tell Us Once service helping reduce the time and effort needed in letting the relevant organisations know that someone has died.
You can then use the Tell Us Once service in a way that suits you either by appointment faceto-face at the customer service centres at Lancaster and Morecambe town halls, online, or via the telephone.
How does it work?
The information you give will be treated securely and confidentially. The organisations who are contacted will use the information to update records, end services, benefits and credits as appropriate and to resolve any outstanding issues. They may use this information in other ways, but only as the law allows.
When you make your appointment to register the death at the local Register Office, the Tell Us Once service will be explained to you. If you choose
For more information visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/once, call us on 01542 582000 or pick up a leaflet from customer service centres and local libraries.
To date, the service has made it easier for 470 local residents and their bereaved families to inform government departments including council tax, adult services and pensions.
Be a ‘Nightstop’ volunteer LOCAL charities Preston Nightstop and Barnardo’s have launched a new service to support vulnerable homeless young people. The Barnardo’s Nightstop service needs people in the Lancaster district to provide temporary emergency accommodation for vulnerable 16 – 25 year olds who have become homeless, usually as a result of a family dispute. Hosts need to offer a young person a cooked meal, bathing and laundry facilities and their own room for the night. They can be single people, couples or families. Preston Nightstop, in partnership with Barnardo’s, also runs a Supported Lodging Scheme in Lancaster recruiting people who can offer a young person a place in their home for
up to two years. The charities need more hosts to sign up. If you have a spare room; enjoy the company of young people and have an understanding of the issues they face, you could help them to develop the skills needed to step out into the world on their own. Expenses are paid and Barnardo’s staff are on hand to offer training, support and advice 24 hours a day. For an informal friendly chat, contact Barnardo’s on 01772 788775 or email fiona.fothergill @barnardos.org.uk or andrew.nelson@barnardos.org.uk
Police and Crime Commissioner Elections – ‘Be part of it’ This year, Lancashire will elect its first Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC). The PCC will be responsible for holding the police force to account and decided how crime should be tackled. The election will take place on November 15. To find out more go to: www.lancspcc.co.uk
Get regular updates and news… ‘Be part of it!’ on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lancspcc Or follow on Twitter @LancsPCC Sign up to the newsletter: www.lancspcc.co.uk
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Olympic Torch Relay - a lasting legacy ON FRIDAY 22 June, the Olympic Torch Relay arrived in the district as part of its 70 day journey around the UK. The weather conditions meant it was a very challenging day for all concerned, but in true British spirit the show went on and it’s estimated that 30,000 people lined the route to see the torch. It was a great day for the community – especially the 15,000 school children who will remember the day for years to come. The day was capped off by a civic reception at Lancaster Town
Hall, for all the Torchbearers, at which Doris Collins from Lancaster handed over her Torch to the city council to retain on behalf of the entire community. The intention is that it will retain a lasting legacy of the Torch Relay and also be used to inspire our communities. To commemorate the Torch Relay, and to showcase the input of the many inspirational people who helped make it such a success, local group the Morecambe Bay Movie Makers have produced a video of the day. It can be viewed at
Salt Ayre Sports Centre on track for green glory SALT Ayre Sports Centre (SASC) has proved its environmental credentials by winning a national award designed to find Britain’s greenest companies, councils and communities. The sports centre, which is owned and run by Lancaster City Council, has won a Green Apple Environment Award thanks to its success in reducing its energy consumption and carbon emissions by over 42% in just three years. By focusing on saving energy in its buildings and making changes to how energy is purchased, the council has significantly reduced the environmental impact of its day-to-day activities as well as saving more than £145,200 on energy bills. Less energy consumption has helped the council reduce the overall amount of CO2 emitted from its buildings by 19.69%
meaning it is well on its way to meeting the target it set itself in 2008 of 34% by 2020. Further carbon reductions and energy savings are expected this year as a result of the installation of a new boiler at Lancaster Town Hall and the installation of solar panels at six sites across the district including Salt Ayre Sports Centre and White Lund Depot. To view a full report on Lancaster City Council’s carbon savings, visit www.lancaster. gov.uk/climatechange and follow the ‘Responding to Climate Change’ link.
Local torchbearer Doris Collins
www.lancaster.gov.uk/london2012 at which there are also details of how a DVD copy can be purchased.
Lancaster Market AS the door of Lancaster Market closes, another door has opened for many of the traders who have relocated to empty premises in the city centre. Relocation of these former traders is set to benefit the city centre too by giving it an increased number and better mix of independent traders to complement the existing stores as well as the Assembly Rooms and Charter Market. It has also meant that some of the empty units in the city centre are now fully occupied benefitting the local economy, shoppers and visitors to the city. The council will continue discussions with Allied, the owner of the indoor market building, with the eventual aim of securing a new future for the building and bringing new life to the city centre.
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Help shape a better future for the Lancaster district
Lancaster City Council has launched a major consultation on a new Local Plan for the district.
Consultation events
The Local Plan will allocate land for the district’s future housing and commercial needs, protect land for its environmental, social and economic value and set out a series of planning policies which will manage future proposals for all types of development across the district. The Local Plan also includes proposals for the regeneration of Central Morecambe via the Morecambe Area Action Plan.
Monday 29 - Heysham Library (2pm - 7pm)
The council is asking for residents to get involved in the process by providing views and comments on proposals which affect where you live, work and visit. The consultation will run for 8 weeks through to Friday, December 14. As well as distributing leaflets to households providing details of what the main implications of the Local Plan will be and how you can get involved, the council has organised a series of events across the district where people will be able to speak to council officers about any affects the Local Plan will have on their area. If you wish to learn more about the Local Plan,
October
Tuesday 13 - Morecambe Town Hall (10am - 3pm) Wednesday 14 - Lancaster Market Square (10am - 3pm)
Tuesday 30 - Morecambe Library (2pm - 7pm)
Friday 16 - University of Cumbria (Alexandra Gallery) (2pm - 7pm)
Wednesday 31 - Bolton-leSands Village Hall (2pm – 6.30pm)
Wednesday 21 – Platform, Morecambe (2pm - 7pm)
November Friday 2 - Morecambe Town Hall (10am - 3pm) Saturday 3 - Lancaster Market Square (10am - 3pm) Tuesday 6 - St Paul’s Parish Hall, Scotforth, Lancaster (2pm 7pm) Wednesday 7 - Morecambe Town Hall (10am - 3pm) Thursday 8 - Silverdale Gaskell Memorial Hall (2pm - 7pm) Friday 9 - Middleton Village Hall (2pm - 7pm) Monday 12 - Carnforth Railway Station (2pm - 7pm) visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/ planningpolicy or contact us via email at planningpolicy @lancaster.gov.uk. For information on the Morecambe Area Action Plan email morecambeaap@
Thursday 22 - Lancaster University (Bailrigg Conference Centre) (2pm - 7pm) Monday 26 - Hornby Institute (2pm - 7pm) Tuesday 27 - Morecambe Library (2pm - 7pm) Wednesday 28 - Caton Victoria Institute (2pm - 6.30pm) Friday 30 - Galgate Village Hall (2pm - 7pm)
December Tuesday 4 - Marsh Community Centre, Lancaster (2pm - 7pm) Thursday 6 – The Centre, Halton, (3.15pm - 6.15pm)
lancaster.gov.uk. Alternatively you can call us on 01524 582000. The draft Local Plan is available to view at Lancaster and Morecambe Town Halls and local libraries.
Do you know who your local councillor is? YOUR Lancaster City Councillor represents and supports the interests of your community in council meetings where local issues are discussed and budget, service and policy decisions are made.
It is important that you speak to your local councillor about local issues to help them make a difference to your community. To find out which ward you live in and who your local councillor is visit
www.lancaster.gov.uk/councillors or call customer services on 01524 582000. Your ward will also be represented by a Lancashire County Councillor - visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/councillors
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Save time – Do It Online
popular pages and online services. Alternatively, you can use the quick links below to go direct to our most visited pages.
For example, our jobs page is at www.lancaster.gov.uk/jobs and our bins and recycling page is at www.lancaster.gov.uk/bins
I want to…
Go directly to…
Find out about bins and recycling
www.lancaster.gov.uk/bins
Apply for a job at the council
/jobs
Find my nearest…
/nearest
View/comment on planning applications
/planning
Find information for Salt Ayre Sports Centre /saltayre EACH month, over 40,000 people visit our website to find information, report issues, have their say and apply and pay for things. If you’ve never visited us online before, you might be surprised by how much you can do and how easy it is to find what you want. Visit www.lancaster.gov.uk and you will find links to all our
Pay a council bill online
/pay
Find council tax information
/council-tax
Tell us once (see page 6)
/once
Have my say
/haveyoursay
Find out what’s on at the Platform
/platform
View all council festivals and events
/whatson
Find my councillor
/councillors
Get tips on how to prepare for winter
/severeweather
Make a difference to Is there Radon in Ryelands Park your home? A NEW survey by Lancaster City Council has found elevated concentrations of Radon gas in some people’s homes. Radon is a clear, odourless radioactive gas which escapes naturally from the ground into the air. It can accumulate in the home and breathing it in sufficient concentrations for a long period can cause damage possibly leading to lung cancer. The Health Protection Agency predicts higher risks of Radon gas buildup in some areas of the district.
THE Friends of Ryelands Park are asking for your views on redevelopment plans for the park. The project group has recently unveiled its draft master plan for the park which includes a new play area, sports pitch, changing facilities and community gardens. The plans can be viewed at www.lancaster.gov.uk/ryelandspark To have your say, complete the questionnaire online at the web address above. The Ryelands Park project is a partnership between Lancaster City Council, Lancashire County Council and the Friends of Ryelands Park.
Nearly 100 households took part in the survey this year. Two detectors were placed in each home for around 12 weeks. Approximately 70 homes measured radon concentrations below the Government ‘target level’. 20 were above the target but below the ‘action level’ and five were at or above the ‘action level’. One of these was in an area not predicted to be at risk. Householders are advised to weigh up the health risk and consider testing Radon levels in their homes. Low-cost monitoring kits can be purchased at www.ukradon.org. Even high concentrations can usually be successfully remedied at relatively low cost. For more information contact Environmental Health on 01524 582741.
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We’re working hard for you LANCASTER City Council’s employees are hard at work every day of the week to make our district a better place. They all
in their work – but how much do you know about the services they provide?
Your District Council Matters asked staff from across the council to tell us a little about their jobs and the difference they make the lives of the community. premises as well as schools, factories, farms and even the sewer network. Andy Henworth has been a member of the team for almost 10 years: “We often get asked what we do besides rat catching. Whilst rodent control is a very important part of our job, it has moved on greatly from one man and his dog and a bucket full of rat traps.
Name: Andy Henworth Occupation: Pest control operative The council’s Pest Control Team deals with more than 2,000 complaints each year about uninvited guests making themselves at home in both domestic and commercial
“To beat a pest requires an element of detective work. When I started this job, I never expected I’d need to think like a weevil! “Besides rats and mice, other small mammals that we deal with include grey squirrels and moles. Pigeons can be a problem in the district too, for which we provide advice on prevention techniques and can provide a free quote for teams, Brenda is on hand to speak to customers who wish to book one of its many facilities. Whether it’s football pitch hire, swimming lessons, a children’s holiday activity or an event on the athletics track, the reception team ensure that there’s a smooth booking process and all queries are dealt with.
Name: Brenda Ingle Occupation: Customer Services Manager at Salt Ayre Sports Centre Brenda works in the busy Salt Ayre Sports Centre and ensures that the thousands of customers each year have an enjoyable and high quality experience. As well as managing the administration and reception
“I’ve always loved working with customers since the very first day I started at Salt Ayre over 19 years ago. There’s a real buzz about the place especially during the school holidays, and it’s always great to work somewhere that brings a lot of joy to a lot of local people,” said Brenda. “It can be quite hectic sometimes, but the Salt Ayre team are always on hand to make sure the centre runs smoothly.”
spiking or netting procedures to keep them away. “We also deal with almost any insect problem - from wasps, fleas, bed bugs, beetles to moths, cockroaches and ants. This year, with the number of wasps significantly down, fleas appear to be the number one insect problem at present - humid weather is perfect for them. “Besides removing active problems, we also supply and maintain preventative products such as fly screens and fly killers and air brick covers to keep mice out. We also can carry out CCTV sewer surveys to locate possible rat entry points underground.” If you want an insight into the day to day activities of our Pest Control Team you can follow them on Twitter@lcstr_unbugged
Swim for less this winter OUR swimming pools at Salt Ayre Sports Centre, Carnforth, Heysham and Hornby will be repeating their famous £1 swim offer this December. This means that people can attend all public swimming sessions for just £1. You don’t have to wait until December though, with all of our pools offering special £1 swim sessions throughout the week. For more information visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/swimming
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What’s on November – February November 1 – 3: Lancaster Fireworks Festival (see page 3 for details)
2, 9, 16, 23: - Santa’s Grotto – Festival Market, Morecambe
4: Hum, Holler n Sing – Platform, 7.30pm, £7/£6
6: Foden’s Brass Band supported by Morecambe Band - Ashton Hall Lancaster, 6.30pm, £12/£10
8: Georgie Fame in Concert – Platform, 8pm, £18, 16+
8: Dizzy Hack and the Rhino Horns – Platform, 7.30pm, £10/£7.50, 16+
9: Steve Hughes: Big Issues – Platform, 8pm, £14/£12, 18+
Panto at the Platform
10: Morecambe Brass Band Remembrance Concert – Platform, 7.30pm, £8/£5 14: Off the Ball – Platform, 7.30pm, £17, 16+ 16: An evening with Boycie – Platform, 8pm, £16, 16+ 18: Promenade Concert Orchestra ‘Music while you work’ – Platform, 3pm, £14/£11/£6 child
11: Sean Hughes – Platform, 8pm, £16, 18+
22: Lancaster Christmas lights switch on – Market Square, 7.30pm
12: More Music's Christmas Lantern Festival + seasonal entertainment, 6pm, free. Tel: 831997
23 - 5 Jan. – Treasure Island at the Dukes (see page 14 for more details)
14: Henry Blofeld – Platform, 8pm, £16, 16+ 14, 17–21: Christmas Carol Concerts – Williamson Park 18: St. Laurence Singers – Platform, 7.30pm, £7 21: Morecambe Brass Band Association: The Winter Showcase – Platform, 7.30pm, £5.50/£1
23: Wilko Johnson and Special Guests Virgil & The Accelerators – Platform, 8pm, £17.50/VIP £35, 16+ 24: And Finally…Phil Collins – Platform, 8pm, £15.50, 16+ 25: Morecambe and Heysham Dog Show – Platform, 9.30am 27: Acker Bilk and his Paramount Jazz Band – Platform, 8pm £18,14+ 29: Morecambe Comedy Club – Platform, 8pm, £8, 18+
December 1-2: Christmas Market and Festival – Festival Market, Morecambe
22: Morecambe Brass Band Christmas Concert – Platform, 7.30pm, £8/£5 26-30: Jack and the Beanstalk Platform, 2.30pm, £7/£6/£22 family 27: Morecambe Comedy Club – The Platform, 8pm, £8, 18+
PANTO at the Platform is back this year with popular children’s classic, Jack and the Beanstalk. Boo, hiss the baddies and holler ‘he’s behind you’ at one of several family performances taking place at 2.30pm from Wednesday 26 – Sunday 30 December. Tickets cost £7 adult, £6 child or £22 for a family ticket (2+2). For a full list of events and activities visit www.citycoastcountryside.co.uk
Winter/Spring Platform brochure THE new Winter/Spring Platform brochure which will have you laughing, dancing and singing your way through winter into springtime is due out in January. Pick up your copy from visitor information centres in Lancaster or Morecambe or customer service centres at Lancaster and Morecambe Town Halls or sign up to get it delivered to your inbox as soon as it’s published at www.lancaster.gov.uk/platform
January
2012/13 festival dates for your diary
15, 22, 29: More travels with my camera by Peter Logan – Platform, 7pm, £3
Seaside Festival – 31 August – 1 September
26: Promenade Concert Orchestra – Platform, 3pm, £14, £11, £6
February 5: More travels with my camera by Peter Logan – Platform, 7pm, £3
Sandcastle Festival – 15-16 June
Heritage Open Days/Vintage Morecambe Weekend – 12-15 September Lancaster Firework Spectacular – 2 November
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Lancaster City Council has Christmas in the bag FROM Santa’s Grottos, carol concerts, brass bands and pantos to unusual gifts and free parking - Lancaster City Council has Christmas in the bag.
Unusual gift ideas LANCASTER City Council’s Visitor Information Centres (VICs) in Lancaster and Morecambe and the shop at Williamson Park, Maritime Museum and City Museum in Lancaster have a huge selection of unusual Christmas gift ideas and stocking fillers.
market in Lancaster where you’ll find costumes available for hire as well as a treasure trove of vintage clothing, antiques and collectables.
Festive treats at Williamson Park LANCASTER’S Williamson Park promises to warm you up for Christmas this year when mulled wine, mince pies and its popular Christmas Carol Concert Series will be back on the menu featuring some of the area’s finest choirs.
Don’t forget to pay a visit to the bustling Charter Market in Lancaster city centre (Wednesdays and Saturdays) and Morecambe’s Festival Market for a bargain or two on the way.
The concerts take place in the Ashton Memorial and begin on Friday, December 14 and will continue from Monday 17 - 21 December. For more information visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/ williamsonpark Father Christmas will be making a special appearance in the Edwardian Grotto at the Ashton Memorial on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 December from 12:30pm – 3:00pm. Tickets cost £4 per child which includes a gift from Santa.
Christmas Festival Market POP along to the Festival Market in Morecambe this Christmas and you’re in for a treat. On the weekend of 1 and 2 December, the market will be hosting a Christmas Festival when Father Christmas will be riding his sleigh into the market to celebrate the special weekend. You can also enjoy mince pies and mulled wine whilst singing along to traditional carols accompanied by a brass band. Throughout December, Santa will be in the grotto every Sunday in the run up to Christmas to offer his young visitors a special gift (entry fee applies).
If you’re looking for something special to wear then look no further than the Assembly Rooms
For more information call 01524 414251 or visit www.lancaster. gov.uk/festivalmarket
Lancaster city centre switches on to Christmas LANCASTER City Council and the Lancaster District Chamber of Commerce are joining together to entice shoppers into the city in the run up to Christmas.
Later night shopping and Christmas lights The start of late night shopping in Lancaster (Thursday, November 22) will be launched with the arrival of Santa into Market Square at 7.30pm to switch on the Christmas lights. Get there early and you’ll be able to come up close with some real reindeer and
until December 20, all the city council's car parks will be free to use after 6pm.
Free parking
You can also park for free at council car parks in Lancaster and Morecambe on Sundays between November 25 and December 23. Evening parking in Morecambe is already free.
Free parking will be on offer for those coming into Lancaster to enjoy late night shopping on Thursdays. From November 22
Market Gate car park in Lancaster is also providing free parking on these days as well as for late night Thursday shopping.
watch hundreds of Santas take part in the charity Santa Dash around the city centre. The fun starts at 4pm.
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Christmas refuse and recycling dates DON’T forget that there will be changes to the days on which your refuse and recycling will be collected over the festive period. Details can be found on your collections calendar, or from the table right.
Xmas Trees Christmas trees can be recycled at Keer Bridge or Salt Ayre Household Waste Recycling Centres or they can be cut down to fit into your green garden bin. Alternatively, St John's Hospice will once again be collecting and recycling Christmas trees during the weekend of January 5 and 6, in exchange for a donation of £5 to the charity. Collections must be booked in advance. For more information visit www.sjhospice.org.uk or telephone 01524 382538.
Recycling tips LANCASTER City Council empties more than 600,000 bins each month. By recycling we can reduce the amount of rubbish that has to go to land fill sites. Here is a list of top recycling tips: • All types of plastic bottle can be recycled in your kerbside recycling box – not just drinks bottles. Shampoo, shower gel and other toiletry bottles, sauces,
Week commencing December 24 Normal Collection Day
Will be picked up on
Monday 24
*Saturday 22
Tuesday 25
*Monday 24
Wednesday 26
Thursday 27
Thursday 27
Friday 28
Friday 28
Saturday 29
* Please note that your collection days have been brought forward.
Week commencing December 31 Monday 31
Monday 31
January Tuesday 1
Wednesday 2
Wednesday 2
Thursday 3
Thursday 3
Friday 4
Friday 4
Saturday 5
cleaning products, and other plastic bottles can be recycled • Recycle your juice cartons and other Tetra Paks at: Salt Ayre Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC), Keer Bridge HWRC, Greaves Park, ASDA and Bull Beck • Aerosols and clean foil can be recycled along with your cans • Clothes (useable and unwearable) and textiles can be placed in a carrier bag alongside your recycling boxes
• All envelopes including those with windows can be recycled with your paper and cardboard • Batteries can be recycled at Lancaster and Morecambe Town Halls and most local schools • All electronic items, however small, can be recycled at Salt Ayre and Keer Bridge HWRCs For more information on what can be recycled and collection dates please visit www.lancaster. gov.uk/bins or telephone 01524 582491.
Time to revisit Carnforth Station IF you thought Carnforth Station was just a place where you can pick up a train, then think again. Made famous as the setting for David Lean’s film Brief Encounter, this historic railway station is also the site of an awarding winning Heritage Centre and faithfully replicated Brief Encounter Refreshment Room. Throughout the year there is a varied programme of events which take place in the Refreshment Room as well as on Platform 1.
Events in the run up to Christmas include: Until Nov 30 – Exhibition of railway related photographs, stamps and postcards Saturday, November 10 - Teddy Bear Workshop Friday, November 16 - Jazz Lunch Saturday, December 8 – Christmas ‘Cracker’ Fair and Christmas Tree Festival Friday, December 21 – Jazz Lunch For more information visit
www.carnforthstation.co.uk or call 01524 735165.
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Community payback
Competition
LANCASTER City Council has joined forces with Lancashire Probation Trust again this year to help tackle some of the worst grot spots in the district using its Community Payback Scheme.
Treasure Island Treat
The aim of the Community Payback Scheme is to punish and rehabilitate, as well as challenge the anti-social behaviour of offenders and make them aware of their impact both on victims and the local community. The scheme also teaches offenders to in their local area as well as a variety of skills as they work. Recent tasks completed by offenders have included the clearing of vegetation and litter as part of the project to restore the 200-year old Lune Aqueduct
AUDIENCES at The Dukes will be cast away to Treasure Island – via Morecambe - this Christmas.
in Lancaster and assisting the council with the huge undertaking of removing diseased rhododendrons from Williamson Park. The scheme will continue to assist the council and its partners as part of the workforce behind the council's ongoing Street Pride Scheme.
A bumper year for play In July this year, children in Lancaster celebrated the official opening of a new family play and recreation area at the heart of the Hala estate.
Less than a month later, the results of a year’s worth of hard work to develop land at the Claypitts area of Morecambe with local residents paid off when a new facility for toddlers and older children as well as a multiuse games area (MUGA) was officially opened.
For the last two years, Hala Community Group has been working with the city council and Lancashire County Council to develop designs and raise funds to develop land between Abbeystead Drive and Claughton Drive.
Funding for the project became available last year as a result of developments in the area. The project also received funding from the Transform your Patch campaign which provided a seating area at the MUGA for spectators.
2012 has been a bumper year for play with the opening of two brand new recreation areas in Lancaster and Morecambe.
Thanks to funding from both councils, Lottery Community Spaces Groundwork UK, Lancashire Environmental fund and money raised by the community group, the new play equipment, pathways, seating and bridge over Burrow Beck is now being enjoyed by children and families on a daily basis.
The classic tale by Robert Louis Stevenson, is given a modern twist by Coronation Street scriptwriter Debbie Oates for its run at the Lancaster theatre from November 23-January 5. A young Morecambe girl – Jem is a 21st Century Jim Hawkins leaving her boring home to spend her Christmas seeking adventures on the high seas in a show where the audience will be even closer to the action than ever before. For more information and to book tickets priced £5-£16.50, contact The Dukes box office on 01524 598500 or visit www.dukeslancaster.org To be in with a chance of winning a family ticket for four to see Treasure Island, simply answer this question: What is the name of the ruthless one-legged pirate?
Send your answers to: Communications, Lancaster City Council, Town Hall, Dalton Square, Lancaster, LA1 1PJ. Deadline for entries is November 30. Name: Address:
Daytime phone number:
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Kids get off to a flying start Keeping you IF your children have been inspired by Team GB’s Olympic gymnasts this summer, there’s a whole selection of gymnastic courses to suit any age and ability at Salt Ayre Sports Centre. Our popular 10 week gymnastics courses take place throughout the year to suit children of any ability aged from 4 to 16. For youngsters with a real talent, there are a number of classes that can train them to become possible future Olympians with our senior coach Jill Trafford. Before teaching, Jill represented Great Britain as a gymnast at national level and was regional champion for a number of years. Jill has been working at Salt Ayre Sports Centre for 15 years and has trained some gymnasts who have gone on to compete at a national level.
“However what’s most important is that all of the children have fun and it’s a great way to keep fit and healthy too.” If children are keen to start early, enthusiastic pre-schoolers from 18 months to 4 years old can join Gymnicrickets. This popular class is a great introduction to the principles of gymnastics training but in a fun and playful environment. Children and their parents are welcome to attend this 45 minute class that teaches children the basics of fitness and social skills as well as having lots of fun. For more information about any of the gymnastics classes at Salt Ayre Sports Centre please call the centre on 01524 847540 or visit www.lancaster.gov.uk/gymnastics
Holiday activity programme Summer 2012 saw the largest holiday activity programme ever with over 160 activities for children to take part including the many free events organised by the council’s Sport and Play Officers. A programme of holiday activities for October half term is taking place now. Although it’s best to book early, don’t worry if you’ve missed this half term, you can sign up to receive future
LANCASTER City Council's Home Improvement Agency (HIA) has received funding from the Department of Health and NHS North Lancashire to help vulnerable residents stay warm this winter. Keeping your home warm to a comfortable level can reduce the risk of illness but housing conditions together with high fuel costs can make this difficult and expensive.
Jill said: “I’ve always loved teaching gymnastics at Salt Ayre Sports Centre and I’d like to pass on my experience in developing gymnasts to go on to great things.
MORE than 1500 children across the district enjoyed a variety of different activities over the summer holidays provided by Lancaster City Council.
warm this winter
holiday programmes as soon as they are available by visiting www.lancaster.gov.uk/holidaypro gramme
The HIA aims to tackle this by offering practical solutions to help you keep your home warm at an affordable level this winter. If you are aged over 60 or have a disability or a long term health condition you could benefit from a range of practical assistance such as: • Repairs and improvements to make your home warmer • Works to make your home safer such as gritting paths and installing handrails • Repairs/servicing to heating systems • Insulation and draughtproofing assistance reducing fuel bills and tackling arrears For more information or to arrange a free visit, contact our Home Improvement Agency on 01524 582257 or email: hiaenquiries@lancaster. gov.uk
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useful contact numbers Lancaster City Council Customer Services: 01524 582000 Council Housing: 01524 582929 Domestic Waste and Street Cleaning: 01524 582491 Homelessness and Housing Standards: 01524 582257
Main contact details for key local services in the district
Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service We can provide a free home fire safety check, fit smoke alarms if needed and give you advice on what to do in the event of fire. Call Freephone 0800 169 1125.
Elections: 01524 582905
Health
Out-of-hours Emergencies: 01524 67099
NHS Direct: 0845 46 47 or www.nhs.uk
Website: www.lancaster.gov.uk
Stop smoking service: 01524 845145
Email: customerservices@lancaster.gov.uk
Drug and alcohol service: 01524 834210 To access a dentist: 01253 306378
Lancashire County Council LCC General Enquiries/Switchboard: 0845 053 0000
To find your nearest pharmacy: text ‘pharmacy’ to 64746
Social Care: 0845 053 0009
Voluntary sector
Highways: 0845 053 0011
Help Direct
Registrars: 0845 053 0021
Telephone: 0303 333 1111
Welfare Rights: 0845 053 0013
Website: www.helpdirect.org.uk
Website: www.lancashire.gov.uk
Email: askus@loc.helpdirectlancs.org.uk
Email: enquiries@lancashire.gov.uk
Lancaster District CVS
Education
Telephone: 01524 555900
White Cross Education Centre
Email: mail@lancastercvs.org.uk
Telephone: 01524 60141
Website: www.lancastercvs.org.uk
Email: adcollege.info@lancashire.gov.uk Website: www.lancashire.gov.uk
North Lancashire Citizens Advice Bureau Advice line: 01524 400400
Lancaster and Morecambe College
Email: enquiries@northlancashirecab.org.uk
Telephone: 01524 66215
Website: www.northlancashirecab.org.uk
Website: www.lmc.ac.uk
One Voice Disability Services
Lancaster University
For advice and help with benefits,
Telephone: 01524 65201
housing, self-directed care, shop mobility,
Website: www.lancs.ac.uk
counselling and support groups
University of Cumbria (Lancaster campus)
Telephone: 01524 382764 Information: 01524 34411 Email: one-voice@btconnect.com
Telephone: 01524 384384 Website: www.cumbria.ac.uk
Emergency services Lancashire Police Telephone: 101 In an emergency always dial 999. Contact information for your local neighbourhood police team can be found at www.lancashire.police.uk Follow us on Twitter @LancsPolice Published by Lancaster City Council.