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Telephone 01543 308000 · www.lichfielddc.gov.uk
Lichfield District Council’s residents’ magazine
WINTER 2009
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Light fantastic Community lantern processions in Lichfield and Burntwood light up the district
Festive waste
Carols in the Park
Find out when your bins will be emptied over Christmas
Aladdin It’s panto time at the Garrick
Sing along to your favourite carols in Beacon Park
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Warmer homes Get discounts and grants to save money on your energy bills
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www.visitlichfield.co.uk Find out about local festivals and events
Welcome to intouch Councillor David S. Smith, Leader of Lichfield District Council www.davidsmithblog.com
I wish you a warm and festive welcome to Lichfield District Council’s residents’ magazine, which is packed full of news, local events and stories. As you will no doubt know, housing is a hot topic at the moment. I am sure most people are as concerned as I am about the independent inspector’s recommendation that we accommodate 2,000 extra homes in the district. If accepted by the Government, we will be calling on local people and groups to join us in opposing this unreasonable increase. Find out more at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/ housingnumbers I thoroughly enjoyed making my own lantern at a workshop and joining local people in the lantern procession through Lichfield. It was a breathtaking procession, and it is clear to see why last year’s event recently won the RegenWM award for Successful Community Engagement. If you live in Burntwood, make sure you don’t miss Burntwood's first lantern parade on 12 December. I am pleased to say the rollout of the new fortnightly blue bin recycling service is now complete. Local people have really embraced the change, and we’ve already
seen an 8% increase in the amount of recycling we’re collecting. As well as reducing the amount of rubbish we send to landfill, it is a greener service because it means we use less fuel to collect everyone’s waste.
“Cutting the amount of energy we use as a council, and helping local people to adopt a more sustainable way of life, is a big priority for us. Turn to page 11 to find out what we’re doing and how you can save money and live a greener life.” Staffordshire hit the worldwide news recently after the largest hoard of Anglo Saxon gold was found in Hammerwich. I know there is great deal of local support for the gold to remain in the region, and we are working with our partners to help this happen.
This has been an award-winning year for the council, and I am incredibly proud that many of our services and projects have recently won, or been finalists, for a raft of awards. Read on to find out more. Finally, to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the carol services, late night shopping or festive events going on across the district this Christmas, pick up a ‘What’s On at Christmas’ brochure from the Tourist Information Centre in the Lichfield Garrick, or visit www.visitlichfield.co.uk And with that, may I wish you all a very merry Christmas.
Above: Anglo Saxon hilt fitting and scabbard boss found in Hammerwich
Re-write the dictionary Is a ‘stingo’ a bee on the go? Is a ‘fopdoodle’ a picture drawn by a foppish gentleman? And, is a ‘maffle’ an Australian waffle? To get to the bottom of these complex issues, our tourism team, along with The Samuel Johnson Birthplace Museum, is asking visitors to www.lichfield2009.com to come up with definitions for ten weird and wonderful words that were in Johnson’s dictionary, but have since fallen out of popular use.
The words include: stingo, fopdoodle, maffle, skimbleskamble, twangling, fancymonger, bellygod, badger-legged, blobber and kissingcrust. To see the definitions so far, and to add your own, simply visit www.lichfield2009.com/words
The best new definitions, along with Johnson’s actual definitions, will be displayed on a special edition postcard early in 2010.
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Lichfield District Council’s residents’ magazine
www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/parks Discover more about the district's beautiful parks
Lichfield lanterns This October nearly 500 local people took part in a huge Goodbye to Summer lantern procession through north Lichfield. Lanterns of all shapes and sizes, including a pumpkin, teapot, car, and shark, lit up the night sky and were admired by the crowds, who came out to cheer on the procession as it passed by. Local resident and volunteer, Hayley Sheldon, said: “The lanterns were spectacular and looked even better than I imagined. This just shows what our community can do when they put their mind to it. This has made me feel so proud to be a north Lichfield local.”
“This is the first lantern procession I’ve taken part in and I was amazed by the effort everyone has gone to.” Hayley Sheldon Local resident and volunteer
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FREE Burntwood Christmas Lantern Parade Burntwood Youth Centre Cherry Close, Burntwood Saturday 12 December Arrive 6pm for 6.30pm parade
Everyone is invited to join Burntwood’s first lantern parade. The evening will end with a sing along carol concert in the grounds of Burntwood Leisure Centre. The event is free and open to everyone. To find out more call Ryan Waldron on 01543 308225 or email ryan.waldron@lichfielddc.gov.uk
FREE lantern building workshops
Award winning parade Organisers of last year's lantern procession through Lichfield are celebrating winning a top award.
Pictured: Amanda Newbold and Jennie Crosby
The procession won the Successful Community Engagement category in this year’s RegenWM Awards, which promote and celebrate regeneration excellence in the West Midlands. Mike Kinghan, Chair of North Lichfield Initiative, said: “We’re all thrilled Lichfield’s lantern procession has won this award. It confirms the hard work and dedication of all the organisers and local people, who are so committed to the north Lichfield community. A huge thank you to everyone who was involved in making the procession such a success – from the artists who taught us how to make beautiful lanterns, to the community for embracing the event, through to all the partners and volunteers who made it possible.” Ian Parry, Staffordshire County Council's Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, added: “The lantern festival has proved to be a wonderful way for families to be involved in an activity during the October school holidays. Projects like this one bring together the community, and celebrate living in north Lichfield.”
Burntwood Youth Centre 5 & 6 December from 11am to 3pm 7, 8, 9 & 10 December from 4pm to 8pm
Learn how to make your own hand held candlelit lantern. There is no need to book just turn up with your creative hat on! Under 12s should be accompanied by an adult at the workshops and the parade. Lichfield and Burntwood’s lantern parades are only possible thanks to the hard work and dedication of so many local volunteers, agencies and organisations. W See the full list, page 13.
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www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/planning Get information about the district’s planning applications
Christmas waste collections www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/recyclingcalendar
Blue & Black Bins
If your bins are usually collected on Monday, your Christmas collections are:
Monday 28 December
MON 14 DEC
MON 28 DEC
MON 28 DEC
Sorry, but you will not receive your usual brown bin collection. Your next brown bin collection is Monday 11 January.
MON 04 JAN
Your collections will return to normal, please put your black bin out.
MON 04 JAN
Monday 28 December
Monday 4 January
MON 21 DEC
If your bins are usually collected on Monday, your Christmas collections are:
MON 21 DEC
Please only put your blue bin out for collection, not your brown bin. Your next brown bin collection is Monday 11 January.
MON 07 DEC
MONDAY COLLECTION
MON 14 DEC
If you normally receive a blue & brown bin collection on a Monday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, here are your Christmas changes:
MONDAY COLLECTION
If you normally receive a blue & black bin collection on a Monday, Thursday or Friday, here are your Christmas changes:
MON 07 DEC
Blue & Brown Bins
Monday 4 January
Your collections will return to normal, please put your black and blue bins out.
WEDNESDAY COLLECTION If your bins are usually collected on Wednesday, your Christmas collections are:
Wednesday 30 December
WED 02 DEC
Please only put your blue bin out for collection, not your brown bin. Your next brown bin collection is Wednesday 13 January.
WED 09 DEC WED 16 DEC WED 23 DEC
Wednesday 6 January
WED 30 DEC
Your collections will return to normal, please put your black bin out.
WED 06 JAN
THURSDAY COLLECTION
THURSDAY COLLECTION
If your bins are usually collected on Thursday, your Christmas collections are:
If your bins are usually collected on Thursday, your Christmas collections are:
Thursday 31 December
THU 03 DEC THU 10 DEC
Sorry, but you will not receive your usual brown bin collection. Your next brown bin collection is Thursday 14 January.
THU 17 DEC THU 24 DEC THU 31 DEC
THU 07 JAN
Thursday 7 January
Your collections will return to normal, please put your black and blue bins out.
FRIDAY COLLECTION If your bins are usually collected on Friday, your Christmas collections are:
FRI 11 DEC
You will not receive a collection on Christmas Day.
FRI 18 DEC
MON 28 DEC THU 31 DEC FRI 01 JAN FRI 08 JAN
Please only put out your black bin for collection, not your brown bin. Your next brown bin collection is Friday 15 January.
Friday 25 December
FRI 04 DEC
FRI 25 DEC
Friday 18 December
Friday 1 January
You will not receive a collection on New Year’s Day.
Friday 8 January
Your collections will return to normal, please put your black and blue bins out.
THU 03 DEC
Thursday 31 December
THU 10 DEC
Please only put your blue bin out for collection, not your brown bin. Your next brown bin collection is Thursday 14 January.
THU 17 DEC
Thursday 7 January
THU 24 DEC THU 31 DEC
Your collections will return to normal, please put your black bin out.
THU 07 JAN
FRIDAY COLLECTION If your bins are usually collected on Friday, your Christmas collections are:
FRI 11 DEC
You will not receive a collection on Christmas Day.
FRI 18 DEC
WED 30 DEC THU 31 DEC FRI 01 JAN FRI 08 JAN
Please put your blue and black bin out for collection, not your brown bin. Your next brown bin collection is Friday 15 January.
Friday 25 December
FRI 04 DEC
FRI 25 DEC
Friday 18 December
Friday 1 January
You will not receive a collection on New Year’s Day.
Friday 8 January
Your collections will return to normal, please put your black bin out.
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Lichfield District Council’s residents’ magazine
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www.ratemyplace.org.uk How hygienic are restaurants in Staffordshire?
Fly tipping warning A zero tolerance approach to fly-tipping has already resulted in five successful prosecutions and three formal cautions in the last year. Following reports of a sharp increase in the amount of builders’ rubble that is being dumped across the district, our enforcement teams have stepped up their covert surveillance of fly tipping hot spots. They will also be upping the number of stop and searches they go out on. This is the scheme that sees council and police officers pulling over any vehicles they suspect may be carrying waste. If the driver cannot produce documentation, which proves they are disposing of their rubbish at a registered site, within seven days, we issue them with a fixed penalty notice, and may consider taking legal action. Cllr Louise Flowith, Cabinet Member for Operational Services, said: “We are extremely concerned about the amount of builders’ rubble that we’re finding on the side of roads and lanes across the district.”
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Bloomin’ lovely compost This autumn our gardeners used the first batch of compost – made from all your recycled brown bin waste – to give the winter flowerbeds in local parks a helping hand.
Above: Glen Ogden, Street Scene Supervisor
“This is why we’re increasing the amount of stop and searches we will be doing. We hope this, and the very real threat of prosecution, will encourage builders to dispose of their waste at a registered site.”
This means your old tea bags, chicken bones, banana peel and garden cuttings are now helping a colourful array of flowers to brighten up the district. Remember, from leaves and grass, to egg shells and food scraps, you can recycle lots of garden and kitchen waste in your brown bin. Find out more at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/recycle
Councillor Louise Flowith Cabinet Member for Operational Services
To help stamp out fly-tipping, report it by calling 01543 308999 or visiting www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/reportit
Above: Gardeners Dave Coton and Vic Sones
Save money with a season ticket Park in Lichfield City centre from just £1.12 per day If you regularly park in Lichfield City centre, you could save lots of money with a season ticket for Lichfield District Council’s long stay car parks. With a season ticket you can park in lots of handy car parks, including: Friary Outer, Backcester Lane, Red Court, Lombard Street (lower deck), University West (long stay area only) and Sandford Street Buy your season ticket at the Tourist Information Centre in the Lichfield Garrick or call 01543 687550
£40 £200 for one month
for six months
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For a list of useful numbers Turn to page 15
www.lovefoodhatewaste.com For yummy recipes to use up leftover food
The stage is set to welcome big names, including Philip Madoc, Tom Butcher, Barbara Dickson, Edward Fox, Julian Lloyd-Webber, Rustie Lee, Beverley Craven, Sir Trevor McDonald, Bradley Walsh, Des O’Connor and many more.
Show stoppers Winter & Spring Season
The Lichfield Garrick is delighted to unveil their fantastic new season. As well as the usual mix of pantomime, comedy, tribute bands and dance, the season will see the Studio transformed into a cabaret style space for the cabaret season in April 2010. Pick up a season brochure to find out more. Viennese Gala Concert
The Snow Queen
Friday 1 January 2010
Tuesday 16 February – Saturday 20 February
Launch the New Year in style. Fresh flowers, garlands and candlelight will transform the Lichfield Garrick for a lavish New Year’s Day Gala Evening, featuring the 35 piece British Philharmonic Concert Orchestra.
B Champagne reception and Viennese dancing from 6pm. Main concert 7.30pm
A stunning production of the classic Hans Christian Andersen tale featuring an evil queen and a host of colourful animals. Starring Jane Rossington.
B Various times A £12.50, £8.50 £36 family ticket (save £6)
Join us on a magical carpet ride to the city of Old Peking. There’ll be thrills and spills and lots of laughter on the way. Celebrity TV chef, singer and actress Rustie Lee will be starring as the Genie of the lamp, playing alongside Garrick’s favourite funnyman Barnaby, as Wishee Washee, and writer and director Ian Adams, who will be getting into a lather as Widow Twankey. Our story starts with Princess Balroubadour who is destined to meet and marry a prince of royal blood. However, the wicked Abanazer has other ideas. Aided by his magical slave, he seeks the legendary enchanted lamp that can grant wishes beyond your wildest dreams. Will Aladdin be able to stop him and save the princess?
B Various times A £19, £10 children, £56 family ticket
Tuesday 26 January – Saturday 30 January
B Various times A £15.50 – £22
Featuring over 30 classics of the era, this non stop show is packed with the very best blues and soul music from both of The Blues Brothers movies.
B 7.30pm
A £18
Hot Flush! Share in the friendships, the secrets, the tears, the laughs and ups and downs of four ordinary women, and one man, living extraordinary lives. Starring Leslie Joseph.
The Holly & The Ivy
A heartwarming tale of an English vicar and his family reunited at Christmas. However, the arrival of two irritable aunts, and an errant daughter, means family secrets start to be revealed. As skeletons tumble from closets, the family is forced to confront their regrets and hidden anxieties.
Wednesday 31 March
Thursday 13 & Friday 14 May
A £15.50 – £22 Friday 27 November – Saturday 9 January 2010
The Official Chicago Blues Brothers Show
B 7.30pm A £19.50, £17.50
Des O’Connor Sunday 28 March The world class star returns to the Lichfield Garrick with his quartet of musicians and special guests for a wonderful evening of comedy, laughter and music.
B 7.30pm
A £30, £25
BOX OFFICE 10am to 6pm, Monday to Saturday Tel: 01543 412121 www.lichfieldgarrick.com Lichfield Garrick, Castle Dyke
Enjoy a morning coffee, a light lunch, or a relaxing glass of wine after work. Whether you’re coming to see a show or not, the Green Room at the Garrick is open to everyone. Open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm, and 10am till late on performance days.
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www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/virtualmuseum To see the district’s treasures online
What’sOn
Christmas Lichfield District Christmas 2009
Here’s just a sample of some of the festive events going on in Lichfield this Christmas. For a full listing of events over the Christmas period get your festive edition of What’s On from the Tourist Information Centre in the Lichfield Garrick. Call 01543 412112 or visit
www.visitlichfield.co.uk
Great Christmas events for all the family Drayton’s Magical Christmas
Songs for a City
Lichfield Christmas Fayre
Saturday 28 November - Sunday 3 January, 12noon - 5pm / 6pm Closed 24, 25, 26 December (call for details). Drayton Manor Theme Park, nr Tamworth, Staffs
Monday 7 December, 7.30pm Lichfield Cathedral
Sunday 13 December, 10am-4pm Lichfield City Centre
A celebration of Christmas for commerce, business and industry.
There’s something for everyone, including shopping, craft and charity stalls, street entertainment and children's activities. There will be a free performance of the Nativity by the Lichfield Mysteries at 2pm.
Thomas Land will become a winter wonderland, with festive music, decorations and snow machines. Admission price includes the spectacular new Christmas film in the 4D cinema.
A £16 aged 4+, £11 aged 2-3, under 2’s free, groups of 4+ people £12.50 each
E 0844 472 1950 D www.draytonmanor.co.uk
Chasewater Railway Santa Specials From Sunday 6 December Chasewater Railway, Brownhills West Station Amazing experiences for all ages as you meet Santa amidst wonderful vintage trains.
A £7 child (includes a present and refreshments) £5.50 adult
E 01543 462623 (Mon - Fri) 07951 724929 (group bookings & weekends) 01543 512112 (Tourist Information Centre)
D www.chaserail.com
A FREE - a collection will be taken E 01543 306100 D www.lichfieldcathedral.org
Christmas Celebrations on Darwin’s Birthday Saturday 12 December 10am - 4pm Erasmus Darwin House, Lichfield
A FREE E 01543 373015
A FREE E 01543 306260 D www.erasmusdarwin.org
Carols in the Trenches Saturday 12 December, 7pm Staffordshire Regiment Museum, Whittington Barracks
Children’s Carol Service
Carols and readings in the trenches with re-enactment of 1914 Christmas Truce.
Sunday 20 December, 11am Wade Street Church, Lichfield (URC and Baptist)
A £3 adults, £2 concessions,
E 01543 434394 / 5
A special carol service led by children from the church.
E 01543 253003 D www.wadestreetchurch.com
Tourist Information Service scoops top award - again!
The team collecting the award
Congratulations to Lichfield District's Tourist Information Service for scooping a silver award for the second year running at this year's Heart of England Excellence in Tourism Awards.
Free parking
P
Do your last minute Christmas shopping in Lichfield, with late night Thursdays.
Head to Lichfield on the 10 and 17 December to finish off your Christmas shopping.
D lctc@fsmail.net
Take a break this Christmas with an exciting time at Darwin House with festive refreshments, crafts, stallholders, cellar tours and festively decorated rooms.
£6 family (2 adults + 3 children)
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On Thursday 10 and 17 December, over 50 shops will be throwing their doors open until 8pm to help you finish off your Christmas shopping! As a special bonus on these evenings, you can also park for free from 4pm in all district council owned city centre car parks. For more information, pick up the What’s On at Christmas brochure from the Tourist Information Centre in the Lichfield Garrick or call 01543 412112.
Hosted by BBC presenters Nick Owen and Suzanne Virdee, the awards celebrate the very best in tourism from Birmingham, the Black Country, Staffordshire, Coventry and Warwickshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire and Herefordshire. Congratulations also to Drayton Manor who were awarded The Outstanding Contribution to Tourism Award 2009. Find out more at www.tourismawards.visittheheart.co.uk
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www.lichfieldgarrick.com For full listings and to book your tickets online
Parks put in the picture
Park life
To celebrate Love Parks Week, we ran a photography competition in Beacon Park this summer.
Carols in the Park
Lots of budding photographers entered their photos and the judges had a difficult job to choose the best snaps. John Godley was named winner of the adult category with his stunning picture of Beacon Pool, and eleven year-old Jake Smith was chosen as the winner of the under 16s category. The winning photos have been published as special edition Beacon Park postcards, and both John and Jake won a family ticket to see the Lichfield Garrick’s festive family pantomime Aladdin. Councillor Val Richards, Cabinet Member for Leisure Services, said: “I would like to thank everyone for entering the competition and congratulate both the winners for their marvellous photography skills.”
Above: Jake Smith and John Godley with their winning photographs
“We were all very impressed with the high level of photography and the final postcards look wonderful.” Councillor Val Richards Cabinet Member for Leisure Services
The postcards are now on sale for 20p at Beacon Park’s Golf Hut and the Tourist Information Centre in the Lichfield Garrick
Museum Gardens in Beacon Park Saturday 12 December Arrive 5.30pm for refreshments Carols start at 6pm Take part in a magical outdoor concert, and sing along to some of your favourite carols, including O Come All Ye Faithful and Ding Dong Merrily on High. Singers from Bella Musica! and Lichfield Operatic Society will be in fine voice on the night accompanied by musicians from local churches.
FREE, although donations to Christian Aid or next year’s Lichfield proms are very welcome.
Friends of Beacon Park Meetings
Wildlife in Winter Park Trail
Become a friend of Beacon Park and find out more about the park’s improvements, and how to get involved in conservation work and upcoming projects. The group meets on the second Thursday of every month. To find out more contact the parks team.
Beacon Park December 2009 to 31 January 2010 10am to 2pm 20p children’s trail 50p adult’s trail Discover winter wildlife secrets on this self guided tour around beautiful Beacon Park. Pick up your trail from the park’s golf hut.
Copyright Trinity Mirror 2008
Find out more, email parks@lichfielddc.gov.uk or call us on 01543 308866
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Lichfield District Council’s residents’ magazine
www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/reportit From blocked drains to fly-tipping, report a problem online
Wetland walk
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Chasewater Dam update In the new year a programme of essential improvement works to Chasewater’s dam will get under way.
This autumn we unveiled a new boardwalk on Chasewater Country Park’s wet lowland heathland. Funded by Natural England, the boardwalk was constructed to protect the fragile flora and fauna, which was being damaged by people’s footsteps. It also gives visitors a great vantage point to take in the scenery without getting their feet wet. So that nature enthusiasts can learn more about the site, we also unveiled an information board entitled Wetland Walk. This gives a brief history of the heathland and lists some of the rare and wonderful plants and animals visitors could spot in the area.
Photos courtesy of Nigel Syler
Councillor Neil Roberts, Cabinet Member for Development Services, said: “As a Site of Special Scientific Interest, it is the council’s responsibility to conserve the district’s heathland, and this boardwalk will help to protect this endangered habitat and also offers fantastic views across the site.” The wetland walk runs alongside Chasewater’s Education Centre and can be reached from Pool Road. The boardwalk will be officially opened in the coming months.
The £2.5 million works will help make the reservoir safe in years to come, and help to protect it from heavy rainfall and erosion. Councillor Val Richards, Cabinet Member for Leisure Services, said: “The water level in the reservoir will lower considerably this spring, exposing large areas of deep mud. While the surrounding country park will remain open during the works, we will be reminding all visitors of the dangers of the muddy reservoir bed. So, if you visit the country park during the works, please follow the signs and keep to the footpaths. Also make sure dogs are kept on leads, and that they do not stray onto the exposed muddy areas. I would also like to thank regular users of the reservoir for their support and understanding during these crucial works.” To find out more about Chasewater Country Park, what we are doing to protect the local wildlife, and about the works to the dam, please visit
www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/ chasewaterdamblog which is regularly updated with news and views.
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Win a family gym membership Turn to page 16
www.warmandgreen.co.uk Access grants to bring your fuel bills down
Staffordshire thinks local Below: Representatives from councils across Staffordshire
Councils and chambers of commerce across Staffordshire have signed a pledge to ‘Think Local’.
Think Local is a free online business directory and resource, which aims to support the local economy and jobs by creating a network of local businesses. Not only does Think Local offer local business contacts, it also gives links to useful business support websites, news and events. And, by cutting travel and transport by trading locally, it is a more environmentally friendly way of doing business.
Cllr Neil Roberts, Lichfield District Council’s Cabinet Member for Development Services, said: “As a representative of one of the Think Local founding members, it was immensely rewarding to sign the Think Local pledge, along with representatives from councils across Staffordshire.” To find out more visit www.think-local.biz
Business Matters Our innovative project - Business Matters – was shortlisted in the Better Regulation category of the National Business Awards this year. The partnership project was set up to develop new ways of working to better support business customers. Councillor Colin Greatorex, Cabinet Member for Organisational Development, said: “Being recognised in this way is down to all the hard work of the team who have all brought their creativity and knowledge of the business world. They continue to present clever solutions to help the public sector provide services to businesses in more efficient and effective ways, which could become the blueprint of the way we work in the future. It is pleasing to note that we will have the chance to lead regionally, and nationally, on how the public sector should provide services to businesses, as a result of this project. Despite not taking home the trophy, it was a great achievement to be chosen as finalists in these prestigious awards.”
Online community training goes live! Venture House, our community training centre, has gone live as a UK Online Centre. This means local people can have a go at a whole range of online courses for free. UK Online Centre courses specialise in basic computer skills and getting to grips with the internet. So, if you want to gain confidence in using a computer, or learn how to set up and use email, shop, bank, search for a job or socialise online, and much more, call the team at Venture House now. We also offer Learndirect courses in maths, English, IT, business and management, as well as workshops in digital photography, card making and more.
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Venture House, Davidson Road just off Upper St. John Street. To find out more, please call 01543 308130 or visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/venturehouse
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www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/epay Pay your council tax and business rates online
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Warmer and greener We’re helping local people to make their homes energy efficient and keep their fuel bills down. This winter, we're reminding homeowners across the district to take advantage of our Warmer Homes, Greener District initiative. This is the scheme that gives local homeowners grants of up to 50% off the cost of installing cavity wall and loft insulation, and full grants to eligible residents. Burntwood resident Richard Stewart is already feeling the benefits of having his loft insulated thanks to a full Warmer Homes, Greener District grant.
“Because I qualified for a full Warmer Home, Greener District grant, I got the work done for free.” Richard Stewart
GO GREEN Are you worried about climate change? Do you want to make a difference but are not sure where to start? To help raise the issue locally, and to encourage more people to go low carbon, we’ve linked up with local action groups, Fisherwick Environment Group and Low Carbon Lichfield. Councillor David S. Smith, Leader of Lichfield District Council, said “I am sure there are lots of people across the district that are worried about climate change and want to make a difference. This is why we’re helping local people to find their nearest low carbon action group, or to form their own.” To see tips on how save energy at home or at work, to find out more, and to log your interest, please visit
www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/gogreen
Pictured: Children of St Michael’s Primary School
Bright sparks As part of our Warmer Homes, Greener District energy grant scheme, energy advice experts from Hestia led a workshop at St Michael’s Primary School this autumn. Pictured: Richard Stewart and Rachel Frondingoun
“The advisers and installers were really helpful and sorted everything out. Since we had the loft insulated, we’ve turned the thermostat right down and the house is still nice and cosy,” said Richard. Find out more freephone 0800 5677 501 or visit www.warmandgreen.co.uk
During the session, seven to ten year-olds learnt how to be greener at home by saving energy. The workshops were made up of games to introduce green themes such as why we should all recycle and save energy around the home. At the end of the session, the children were all given a Warmer Home, Greener District bookmark to remember their energy saving tips.
Green Apple Award In 2007 Lichfield District Council joined forces with a host of local organisations, including the University of Birmingham and Staffordshire County Council, to tackle climate change through an initiative called Chasewater Green Park projects. This November, the initiative was awarded a prestigious Green Apple Award at the House of Commons. Councillor David S. Smith, Leader of Lichfield District Council, explains: “I firmly believe that by joining forces with businesses, through partnerships like Chasewater Green Park projects, local councils can turn high level thinking on climate change into local solutions. The Green Apple award firmly cements the initiative’s role at the forefront of helping to cut carbon emissions and reduce consumption of non-renewable energy sources across the district and further a field. The work of the initiative will also help to boost our local economy by providing opportunities for new green businesses and products.” Projects include researching greener ways to heat historic buildings, such as Lichfield Cathedral, looking at ways to create carbon neutral business parks and demonstrating how to harness unused energy from coal fired power stations.
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www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/councillors Contact your local councillor
Community spirit Here is just a flavour of some of the projects our community teams have been working on – alongside partner agencies, groups and local volunteers. North Lichfield W Environment In September, hundreds of local people and visitors came to Stowe Fields to enjoy a free Environment Day. The day focused on the theme ‘celebrating the environment on your doorstep’. It was a great opportunity to find out how to cut the amount of carbon we produce in our homes, and to have fun at green-themed sessions - such as tepee, willow and lantern making workshops. W Boom boom This autumn local people
and visitors made some noise at the Drummin’ up Fairtrade in Lichfield event. On the day, the Guildhall was jammed full of activities, stalls and delicious Fairtrade food. The highlights were two totally original drumming performances.
To find out more about community events in north Lichfield call 01543 308230 or visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/northlichfield Burntwood
W Open art exhibition In the summer
hundreds of people came to the ‘I was here, I woz ‘ere’ art exhibition at Chase Terrace Technology College. Organised by our community arts officer, the stunning and professional artists from Burntwood. Visitors also enjoyed free art workshops. Mile Oak and Fazeley
W Whits-end Are you at your wits end
caring for a child with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder? If you are, the Whits-end Support Group could help you. Pop into the Jigsaw Shop on Dimbles Lane for more information. W Ladies Football If you are interested
in football, and would like to join an all-woman football team, come along to training on Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm at Lichfield City Football Club.
W Community art In October 35 local children helped two graffiti artists to create a huge piece of community art at Mile Oak Recreation Ground. Mile Oak Rovers football club kindly offered their football stand up as a giant canvass. The stand is now a riot of colour with Mile Oak Rovers emblazoned on the front, surrounded by images of football players and their keen supporters.
Pictured: Daisy and Lilly Hughes
collection of art was created by amateur
Pictured: Drummin’ up Fairtrade
Above: Dawn Morley, Rosemary Hart and Mavis Harris with their new slippers
W Festival This August hundreds of people had a great day out at Mile Oak and Fazeley's summer festival. Visitors enjoyed a football tournament, live music, crafts, games and refreshments. If you are interested in getting involved in next summer’s festival, please contact 01543 308218 or email lucie.broad@lichfielddc.gov.uk W Community garden Local people,
patients and groups are hard at work creating a garden at the George Bryant Centre in Robert Peele Hospital. The garden will be a tranquil and interesting outdoor space for patients and visitors to enjoy.
Pictured: Community art at Mile Oak
Around the District W Events for older people This winter older people across the district can once again replace their ‘sloppy’ slippers with a brand new pair for just £1.50 at a series of events for older people. The events also feature representatives from lots of local agencies, who will be on hand to promote useful services and information.
Put a date in the diary! Village Hall, Armitage with Handsacre
Thursday 17 December, 1.30pm - 4pm Town Hall, Fazeley
Thursday 14 January, 1pm - 4pm Scout Hut, Burntwood
Tuesday 16 February, 1pm - 4pm For more information please call 01543 308218 or visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/sloppyslippers
Many thanks: All of these projects were only possible through the kind support of our partner organisations, including: North Lichfield Initiative, HomeZone Living, Lichfield City Council, Staffordshire County Council, Community and Learning Partnership, Lichfield & District CVS, Curborough Community Centre, Burntwood Town Council, Mile Oak Youth Club, Mile Oak Sea Scouts, Mile Oak Rovers Football Club, Fazeley Town Council, Mile Oak Youth Club, Adult & Community Learning, Lichfield District Safer Community Partnership, Staffordshire Fire Service, Burntwood Community and Learning Partnership, Staffordshire Police Service, B Arts, Staffordshire Youth Service, St Johns Ambulance, Burntwood Brigade Band, Burntwood Methodist Church, Staffordshire Youth Service, Alzheimer’s Society, Lichfield Adventure Playcare Association, Midlands Heart, Seas Scouts, Aspire Youth Club, Mill Lane Art Group and Longwood Primary School, Millfield Primary School, Lichfield City Football Club, Staffordshire FA, and lots of local volunteers.
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Lichfield District Council’s residents’ magazine
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www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/carers Find out about support and help for carers
Lichfield and Tamworth Building Control
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Don’t lose your vote
Come to the experts The Green, RJK Construction Midland Ltd
They are by far the best building control service we’ve ever dealt with.”
“
RJK Construction Midland Ltd
To discuss your building control needs, call us on:
01543 308157 or email: buildingcontrol@lichfielddc.gov.uk
Lichfield District and Tamworth Borough councils’ building control teams have joined up to share their considerable knowledge and expertise. We provide advice and guidance to builders to make sure their project meets national building standards.
In preparation for the next general election, we sent an annual canvass form to every household across the district, so that we can put together the new electoral register. Thousands of people responded, but there are still some households that haven’t. This means come polling day, they won’t be able to vote. This is why we’re reminding everyone who hasn’t returned their annual canvass form to fill it in and send it back to us as quickly as possible. Nina Dawes, Electoral Registration Officer, said: “If you want to have your say at the next election, and help to choose the people who make decisions that affect your everyday life, you must be registered to vote. And remember, if you’ve just moved, or are about to move, you will need to re-register at your new address.” For more information please visit www.aboutmyvote.co.uk or call the elections team on 01543 308125.
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www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/lostdogs To see if we've found your missing best friend
Need help & advice?
Dib, Dib, Dib
www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/councillors If you’ve got a question, or an issue you want advice on, contact your ward councillor to see if they can help. Email your councillor Councillors’ email addresses start with their first name, followed by a dot, followed by their surname and finished with @lichfielddc.gov.uk For example: joseph.powell@lichfielddc.gov.uk Burntwood Town Wards All Saints Brenda Constable E 01543 684685 Helen Fisher E 01543 305070 Boney Hay Rod Campbell E 01543 685484 Russell Heath E 01543 671857 Burntwood Central Kenneth Humphreys E 01543 676005 Brenda Rigby E 01283 790342 Chasetown Paul Atkins E 01543 674504 John Emery E 01543 304068 Chase Terrace Richard Bamborough E 01543 673850 Maureen Humphreys E 01543 676005 Stephen Tranter E 01543 304226 Highfield Douglas Constable E 01543 684685 Maureen Holt E 01543 684102 Summerfield Don Isaacs E 01543 319588 Steve Norman E 01543 304711 Lichfield City Wards Boley Park Jeanette Allsopp E 01543 256114 Barry Diggle E 01543 258678 Janet Eagland E 01543 257102
Chadsmead Marion Bland E 01543 416449 Michael Fryers E 01543 300646 Curborough Brian Bacon E 01543 264357 Norma Bacon E 01543 264357 John Walker E 01543 257461 Leomansley Terrence Finn E 01543 252348 Ian Jackson E 01543 414732 Derek Love E 01543 252096 St Johns Gwyneth Boyle E 01543 251684 Doris English E 01543 256415 John Wilks E 01543 262268 Stowe Bernard Derrick E 01543 410124 Colin Greatorex E 01543 416677 David Smedley E 01543 410389 Lichfield Rural Wards Alrewas & Fradley Paul Hogan E 01283 790263 Margaret Stanhope E 01283 790215 Michael Wilcox E 01283 791761 Armitage with Handsacre Richard Cox E 01543 490560 Thomas Marshall E 01543 491625 Martyn Tittley E 01543 490758
Bourne Vale Charles McEwan E 01543 414622 Colton & Mavesyn Ridware Tony Hill E 07971 237620 Hammerwich Erica Bayliss E 01543 685380 Val Richards E 01543 686927 Fazeley Ben Adams E 01543 483013 Tony Brookes E 01827 287464 Ian Lewin E 01827 260483 Kings Bromley Ian Pritchard E 01543 472732 Little Aston Louise Flowith E 07778 787522
This autumn, our planning chiefs were given a sneak preview of the new 6th Lichfield Scout Group Headquarters, before it was officially opened on 17 October. The special guided tour was to see how the scouts spent £100,000 Section 106 funding, which we awarded the project. The tour took in the energy efficient building that is now home to the 6th Lichfield Scout Group. They will be using the purpose built venue as a base to hold meetings and run activities and games for their 80 beavers, cubs and scouts – aged from 6 to 14.
“This is a fantastic building and we’re delighted it will be used by so many young members of our community.” Councillor Neil Roberts Cabinet Member for Development Services
Above: Councillor Neil Roberts with council officers and scout leaders
Fun on the go
Joseph Powell E 01543 255176 Longdon Neil Roberts E 01543 672957
Mobile Leisure brings a range of fun activities direct to people living in rural communities.
Mease & Tame Phillip Bennion E 01827 373274
Halls, schools and community centres in lots of villages are used to stage day time, evening and school holiday activities. All ages are catered for from young children to older people. Activities include Mini Mambos for under 5’s, Mighty Mambos for 5 to 11 year olds, adult aerobic and yoga sessions, and short mat bowls. Many adult sessions also offer a crèche, making it ideal for busy parents looking
Ellen Perkins E 01827 373841 Shenstone Matthew Ellis E 01543 480644 Rita Hancocks E 01543 480560 Stonnall David Smith E 01543 374690 Whittington Alan White E 07793 838432 Rob Strachan E 07708 696958
for a little bit of ‘me time’. Check out the full programme of classes now by visiting www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/ mobileleisure or for more information please call 01543 308766
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Lichfield District Council’s residents’ magazine
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www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/clubfinder Find a local sports club in your area
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A-Z of council services and useful numbers www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/a-z Lichfield Connects Here to help
Here’s a list of handy telephone numbers for some of our services. If you can’t find what you need, please call our customer services team, Lichfield Connects, on 01543 308000. Business Support 01543 308201
Environmental Health 01543 308725
Parks & Playing Field Enquiries 01543 308866
Car Parks 01543 308999
Environmental Improvements Urban 01543 308193
Pest Control PCT External Contractor 01543 306406
Fraud Hotline 0800 7831030
Planning Enquiries 01543 308174
Chasewater Country Park 01543 370607 Community Development 01543 308230 Community Grants 01543 308221 Community Research 01543 308122 Community Safety 01543 308777 Community Transport 01543 308165 Countryside 01543 308164 Conservation 01543 308203
Are you a family on a low income? If you receive child benefit, you may be entitled to extra help with your rent and council tax payments.
Contact us now to find out if you are eligible for housing or council tax benefit. Call: 01543 308900 email: benefits@lichfielddc.gov.uk or visit: District Council House reception, Frog Lane, Lichfield
For more information visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/benefits
Dangerous Buildings & Structures 01543 308157 Development Plans 01543 308183 Disability & Equalities 01543 308145
Fusion Credit Union 01543 308223 Homelessness & Housing 9am-10am or 4pm-5pm 01543 308709 / 308711 Housing Advice Line 01543 308703 Housing Benefit 01543 308900 Leisure Centres: Burntwood 01543 308810 Friary Grange 01543 308842 King Edward VI 01543 308782 Lichfield Garrick: Box Office 01543 412121 General 01543 412110 Lichfield Tourism 01543 308216
Unauthorised Development 01543 308205 Shopmobility 01543 308999 Small Lottery Permits 01543 308073 Social Services 01543 510800 South Staffs PCT 01889 571700 Staffordshire County Council 01785 223121 Street Collection Permits 01543 308073 Sustainable Community Strategy 01543 308170 Tourist Information Centre 01543 412112
Elections & Electoral Registration 01543 308125
Listed Buildings 01543 308188
Trading Standards 0845 330 3313
Markets 01543 309850
Tree Enquiries 01543 308207
Empty Properties 01543 308706
Old Mining College Centre 01543 308220
Venture House Training Centre 01543 308130
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www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/news Catch up on the latest council news
New Year, new you Win a family membership* to one of our state of the art gyms - Inspire at Burntwood Leisure Centre or Evolve at Friary Grange Leisure Centre. Both Evolve and Inspire offer great value membership rates, catering for everyone from beginners to fitness enthusiasts. So, whether you want to build up your strength, lose weight or simply keep fit, visit Inspire or Evolve and take the first step to a healthy lifestyle.
WIN!
Spot the difference To be in with a chance of winning a year’s family membership to your choice of either gyms, circle the eight differences between the two images of the Garrick pantomime characters Wishee Washee and Widow Twankey.
Name Address
Telephone Send your entry by 1 February 2010 to: Spot the difference, Communications Team, Lichfield District Council, Frog Lane, Lichfield WS13 6YY *Family membership: 2 adults and up to 3 children.
W More news To follow council news throughout the year, please visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/news W Intouch editorial team Esther Epstein, Elizabeth Thatcher, Rhiannon Purkis and Matt Barker.
Add your advert Promote your business or service to thousands of homes across the district. Contact us now for an advertising pack.
W Contact us For an advertising pack, or to give us your feedback about intouch, please call Esther Epstein on 01543 308778 or email esther.epstein@lichfielddc.gov.uk
Intouch is published by Lichfield District Council, District Council House, Frog Lane, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS13 6ZD, Winter 2009 Š Every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this magazine is correct. However, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any loss or disappointment arising from misinterpretation, error, omission or subsequent change to the information.