Northumberland News issue 21 Spring 2012
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Fire service new recruits Residents’ Festival 2012 Invasion at Woodhorn Best Market in Britain
Plus New Kielder bike route | Recycling rewards | What’s on near you
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Northumberland News In this issue: Now available online, by email or in print. 6 8 Northumberland News is a quarterly magazine 16 packed with features and news articles written specifically for county residents. 27
Olympic Sport - Give It A Go! Wildfire workshop Volunteers LOVE Northumberland Parking - changes pending
Published in July, September, December and March it is distributed free of charge by Northumberland County Council. Every effort is made to ensure that all information is accurate at the time of publication.
If you would like to receive Northumberland News in large print, Braille, audio, or in another format or language please contact us. Telephone: 0845 600 6400 Fax: 01670 511413 Text phone: 01670 542521 Text Relay: 18001 0845 600 6400 Email: ask@northumberland.gov.uk 2
Northumberland News, Gold Award Winner in the External Newspaper or Magazine category at the CIPR PRide Awards North East. The magazine was judged best in the region during an awards ceremony in November 2011.
Front cover: On-call firefighters Glen McWilliams and son Jack outside their business in Wooler. Full story page 9.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Leader’s welcome
As this edition of Northumberland News goes to print, the county council is finalising its budget and spending plans for the next financial year. Like all other council's across the country, we are facing budget cuts and Northumberland must make savings of ÂŁ30m over the next three financial years.
We have already made enormous efficiency savings totalling more than ÂŁ100m since the unitary authority was formed in 2009, so it makes finding the required savings challenging.
county council's apprenticeship programme. Details of the work of apprentices, past and present, are covered in an article about National Apprenticeship Week on page 15.
Once again we have been looking at the services we provide to see how we can reduce expenditure and increase income by working in innovative ways, using new technology and combining services. In this way we can make savings while minimising the impact on the services we provide to residents.
In spite of difficult financial times there are plenty of events to look forward to, which will be free to enjoy. Later this month, Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 March, the county council will run its third annual Residents' Festival. Under the new banner of Our people, our places, the festival, is set to be bigger and better than ever, more details are listed on page five.
We're pleased to say that through careful management we are still able to invest in important services that matter to residents in Northumberland. This includes investment in the library service and our new community hubs, which, in collaboration with the NHS, have been opening up in areas across the county during the past few months. We also continue to invest in our young people through the
The Olympics is fast approaching. On page six there is information about how to get involved in the build-up to the games. There are also events planned to celebrate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee this summer and details will be following in the next issue. Jeff Reid Leader of Northumberland County Council
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Kielder on track for new success Hardy trail builders are going up in the world to build the longest competition downhill mountain bike route of its kind in England.
“It will be the biggest vertical drop of any downhill trail built in England,” said Philip Grimes from Northern Downhill. “It will be a major challenge getting it done, but the potential to create something really special in Kielder is the incentive.”
Wielding shovels and pitch forks and armed with gritty determination in the face of winter weather, mountain bike fans expect to have the two mile trail built by October in the 62,000 hectare (155,000 acre) Kielder Water & Forest Park.
Britain is a hotbed for downhill biking and the current world champion, Danny Hart, comes from Redcar in North East England. He cut his teeth in another Forestry Commission woodland – Hamsterley Forest, near Bishop Auckland.
Downhill mountain biking is not for the faint hearted, involving a rapid descent against the clock and complicated technical sections.
Alex MacLennan, recreation and public affairs manager (north east) with Forestry Commission, said: “Kielder lends itself to superlatives and the new trail will be a spectacular addition to the mountain biking scene in Britain. The forest park already boasts the country's longest family and
The Forestry Commission is working with Northern Downhill on the exciting new trail, which will have its starting line on the 2,000 foot Northumbrian summit of Deadwater Fell.
Pictured: Riders test a newly built stretch of downhill trail on Deadwater Fell. Pictures by Mark Pinder
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intermediate bike routes, the highest cross country trail and the toughest endurance event, helping to make it a prime mountain bike venue. Hosting downhill events throughout the winter each year is key in attracting more visitors to the area at a traditionally quiet time of year.” Northern Downhill is staging five races in northern Britain this year, culminating in a final joust for prizes at Kielder on 20 and 21 October, when the new trail – which will be used for competitions only - will be employed for the first time. Bike fans are being urged to join weekend trail building sessions. To find out more contact Philip Grimes at: info@northerndownhill.co.uk More details of bike routes at Kielder can be found at www.visitkielder.com
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Residents' Festival 2012 Top attractions throughout Northumberland will be offering free entry and discounts to people living in the county during the annual Residents' Festival on 24 and 25 March this year. With the date set for the third annual event, the county council is keen to build on the success of previous Residents' Festivals. This year, with new venues joining in, the weekend is set to be even bigger and better. The festival, now known as Our people our places, aims to celebrate the fact that Northumberland is a fantastic place to live and to give something back to residents in the county. Throughout the weekend, castles, gardens, stately homes and museums will be opening their doors free of charge or offering generous discounts to visitors from Northumberland. The event is organised by Northumberland County Council in partnership with leading visitor attractions from across the county. These include: The Alnwick Garden, Cragside, Bailiffgate Museum, Belsay Hall, Bamburgh Castle, Seaton Delaval Hall, Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens, Lindisfarne Castle and Priory, Woodhorn, Etal Castle and Newbiggin Maritime Centre.
Pictured: Jennie Collingwood, tourism development manager at Northumberland County Council, with Sami Cowie at Kirkley Hall Zoological gardens one of the new attractions in this year's Our people our places event. Councillor Jeff Reid, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “Last year thousands of people took advantage of the festival weekend and we hope to build on this success with new attractions joining those that were so popular in 2011. The festival is a fantastic showcase for the county and all the world class venues that are on our doorstep.� Residents will need special vouchers to receive free or discounted entry to the attractions and these are now available from local libraries, county council offices, tourist information centres and sports centres. Vouchers can also be downloaded from the website for more information visit: residentsfestival.northumberland .gov.uk or phone 0845 600 6400.
Attractions taking part include: ? The Alnwick Garden ? Bailiffgate Museum, Alnwick ? Bamburgh Castle ? Belsay Hall, Castle and
Gardens ? Chesters Roman Fort ? Corbridge Roman Town ? Cragside, Rothbury ? Dunstanburgh Castle ? Etal Castle ? Kirkley Hall Zoological
Gardens ? Lindisfarne Castle ? Lindisfarne Priory ? Longframlington Gardens ? Newbiggin Maritime Centre ? RNLI Grace Darling Museum,
Bamburgh ? Seaton Delaval Hall ? National Trust Wallington ? Warkworth Castle and
Hermitage ? Woodhorn, Ashington
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www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
New start for outdoor centre The county's most historic outdoor education centre will re-open next month boasting improved facilities and courses. Zip wire, climbing, abseiling, canoeing, fencing and archery will be just some of the activities on offer to schools and other groups at the residential outdoor centre Ford Castle, which lies between Wooler and Berwick. School trip provider Chateau Beaumont announced plans earlier this year to join forces with Northumberland County Council to re-open the centre in April under a new joint venture as Ford Castle Adventure Limited. Since the decision was made to close operations at Ford last August the council has been working to secure the castle’s future. By creating a joint venture the county council believes that Ford Castle can operate successfully as an outdoor centre for at least the next 20 years. Councillor Tom Brechany, responsible for asset management and regeneration at Northumberland County Council said: “This is great
Pictured (from left): Councillor Tom Brechany, Lord Joicey and Peter Smith from Château-Beaumont. news, both for schools looking for inspiring educational trips and for the local community at Ford, which will see business returning to the Castle.” Peter Smith, managing director of Château-Beaumont said: “This outstanding residential outdoor education centre provided excellent educational opportunities for local schools as far back as the 1950s. It is a wonderful, medieval setting, which inspires its visitors and brings history to life. It fires the imagination of young people and we aim to provide varied learning opportunities, which will help them to discover their hidden talents.” Lord Joicey of Ford & Etal Estates, who leases the castle to the county council, said: “I'm delighted that the council has reached an agreement with a company to whom it wishes to sublet Ford Castle. Ford Castle
will now be maintained under an agreed conservation plan, provide new employment opportunities for local people and will hopefully encourage new visitors into the area.” Ford Castle Adventure Limited plans to upgrade facilities whilst ensuring that the historic buildings are properly preserved for future generations. A range of courses will be designed with topics to match the National Curriculum. The company also wants to maximise the history and heritage that the area has to offer - from local attractions such as Flodden, Lindisfarne and Bamburgh, to World Heritage Sites at Hadrian's Wall and Durham Cathedral. For further information visit: www.ford-castle.co.uk or phone 0844 800 4278.
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Northumberland represents UK in wildfire project Wildfire experts from eight European countries will join Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service officers for a special workshop to be held in the county later this month. The event will take place during the week beginning 19 March as part of the European Forest Fire Networks Project (EUFOFINET). This ambitious European-funded two-year project, which was launched in October 2010, covers five key themes relating to wildfire through a series of seven workshops. The Northumberland workshop will focus on good practice in fighting and suppressing wildfires. As part of this, Northumberland Fire and
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Rescue Service will lead two field demonstrations in the Northumbrian Countryside.
be hosted by Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service on Tuesday 20 March.
These demonstrations will be based on common scenarios that could be encountered by firefighters tackling wildfires.
Alex Bennett, chief fire officer for Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are looking forward to hosting the workshop and roadshow in March.
Other events taking place in Northumberland throughout the same week will include: presentations on the tactics and strategies used in different countries to extinguish forest and wildfires. The EUFOFINET delegates, as well as representatives from the USA, will also take part in problem solving exercises linked to wildfire scenarios. Another important element of the workshop is a Regional Roadshow which will demonstrate innovation in fire and rescue equipment. This one-day event will be the first of its kind in the UK and will
“Our involvement in the EUFOFINET project has been very rewarding so far. Northumberland is now recognised within the UK as the lead fire and rescue service on wildfire training and operational policy issues. “By hosting this event and participating in the EUFOFINET project we are working hard to maintain and further develop our skills so that we can continue to improve safety and well-being within our county. We are also sharing what we learn with our partners across the UK.”
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Fire service seeks new recruits Applicants have until Friday 9 March to put themselves forward as potential Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service on-call officers. Wooler and Berwick are especially in need of more retained firefighters and both stations ran open events in February so that men and women of all ages and backgrounds could find out more about the role and the service. Wooler crew members, father and son Glen and Jack McWilliams, were just two of the 12 on-call firefighters who were available at Wooler Station to answer questions at the open evening on 23 February. Glen McWilliams, who has been an on-call firefighter in Wooler for eight years, said: “It's a very rewarding job. I enjoy the adrenaline of working in an emergency service and helping people. You're recognised in the community for what you do and it's good to be part of such a close-knit crew. The training is very thorough and I've used my first aid skills many times outside of work.” Glen and Jack are selfemployed and run The Chocolate Box sweet shop in Wooler. Although initially a bit reluctant to join the service before realising what it entailed, since joining two years ago, Jack is now a dedicated member of the crew.
Pictured: On-call firefighters Glen McWillliams and son Jack in their Wooler shop. Glen said: “On average we are called out six times per month. The crew is a mix of selfemployed people and those who work for companies. We're very grateful to those employers who accommodate their employees during call outs. There are benefits for employers too as they gain the expertise of a trained first-aider who can help with fire safety assessments in the workplace.” On-call firefighters are paid a retaining fee of between £1,587 and £2,821 per year with an hourly rate of £10.06 while in training. On top of that, retrained firefighters are paid for any
incidents they are called out to and for involvement in community safety activities. Retained duty system (on-call) firefighters are able to combine their role with another job. All that is asked is that they are available to respond to a call and reach the retained fire station within five minutes. Alex Bennett, chief fire officer for Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Being an on-call firefighter gives you the opportunity to learn valuable skills and earn extra money while providing an invaluable service to your community.”
For further details and an application form, please contact Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service HR Department, West Hartford Business Park, West Hartford, Northumberland, 01670 591123 or email: Fire.Recruitment@nothumberland.gov.uk
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Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group looks to the future The organisation which will take over responsibility for delivering patient focused, high quality services in the county is already working on shaping those services for the future. The Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group (NCCG), which covers all 46 GP practices in the county, is developing a three year vision, which will include a strong focus on meeting the long-term health needs of local people. This builds on the group's current local delivery plan for 2011-12. The group is working closely with the current commissioners of health services in the county – NHS North of Tyne on behalf of Northumberland Care Trust – to take on commissioning responsibilities before the phasing out of primary care trusts in 2013.
Aiming to help people with long-term conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
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Lead GP for the Group, Dr Alistair Blair, who is a partner in the Wellway Medical Group in Morpeth said: “The establishment of CCGs provides a great opportunity for clinicians and other healthcare professionals to commission services which meet the needs of local populations.
“We are ideally placed to understand the needs of our patients and to make sure the services are developed locally to meet those needs.”
“With this local, integrated focus it is envisaged that more locally designed and delivered care pathways will be commissioned.”
The structure of the NCCG will also help ensure there is a local focus to how money is spent on commissioning health services in four localities across the county – North, West, Blyth Valley and Central.
Over the coming months, through public, patient and other stakeholder engagement, the Group will be looking to further increase local awareness about the CCG itself and its vision and values.
The Group has a high level of clinical and primary care management skills through the engagement of GPs and practice managers as locality directors and business leads. The main aims of NCCG are to focus on driving up the quality of patient care using evidence based practice and integrated approaches. Dr Blair said: “The NHS Constitution underlines the commitment to delivering care of the highest standard while also making best use of taxpayers' money and we feel this commitment can be clearly tracked to our strategic plan as can the fundamental issue of accountability.” Jackie Cairns, associate director of commissioning (Northumberland) at NHS North of Tyne who is working closely with the CCG, said: “NCCG has been established in its current form since February 2011 and is building its structures around recognised locality areas. “Their commissioning strategy is underpinned by the principles of quality and integration as well as meaningful engagement with the public.
The CCG is focusing its three year vision around a number of key areas: Public health and prevention Working with social care partners to proactively improve health and health outcomes for the local population. Help reduce inappropriate use of emergency services Through a programme of developments that help the transition of services from hospital to community care. Hospital care Reducing the need for hospital care activity through integrated prevention programmes and development of care closer to home.
Dr Blair added (pictured above): “As we move towards becoming a statutory NHS body we are continuing to develop the way in which we work to ensure it is fair and transparent and that we take consideration of current guidance and best practice. We will also continue to develop relationships with our key partners including the local authority and the health and well-being board, other nearby CCGs and future commissioning support services. “This will all be undertaken with the full participation of the GP practices in the Group and the localities.”
Long-term conditions Aiming to help patients with long-term conditions maintain independence and quality of life by supporting them and their carers to manage their condition. Mental health and learning disabilities To ensure services are available for people to support their psychological and physical well-being throughout their lifetime. End of life care To ensure people are supported to make choices about their end of life care and place of death and be assured that their choices are respected and dignity maintained.
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Market – best in Britain Hexham's open air market has been named best small outdoor market in an annual competition run by the National Association of British Market Authorities. The competition, sponsored by KPR Midlink, featured nine categories recognising both large and small markets that are outdoor, indoor, speciality, privately run, local council or wholesale. They also featured Britain's favourite market and the best market attraction. Councillor Alan Thompson, executive member responsible for markets at Northumberland
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County Council, said: "It's fantastic that one of Northumberland's markets has been named best small outdoor market of the year. We work hard to ensure that our markets are thriving and that they add vibrancy and vitality to town centres across the county. The council has developed a strategy for its markets to ensure that they continue to develop and improve over the coming years. "At Hexham the market has seen a significant increase in traders over the last couple of years, made possible by extending the trading area, and supported by additional promotion and support from the council. The recent sign-up to the national
Real Deal initiative has given further assurances to shoppers that the goods they purchase are fairly traded and genuine.” Jeremy Bradin, director of the award sponsors, KPR Midlink Ltd, said: “KPR are very pleased at the response to the KPR Market of the Year competition that once again gave us a very high standard of entries. There were many innovative and interesting entries showing that market managers and market offices are becoming more and more proactive and innovative in these difficult times.” The winners were announced at the Nabma 'Changing High Street' event in Birmingham at the end of last month.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Best fronts forward Shopfronts in Bedlington are being revived thanks to grant aid from the Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI) programme. The THI is a five year programme during which almost £2m will be invested in improvements to Bedlington. It is being coordinated by Northumberland County Council and funding has come from Heritage Lottery Fund and the county council, as well as from the Northumberland Local Transport Plan for the market place. Overall, 19 buildings (25 businesses) will be restored by early 2013. Grants will be mainly offered to independent businesses for restoration and repair. Nine schemes are nearing completion and building work on up to eight schemes will start later this year. D.J Lynn & Son, the butcher (pictured) opened on Front Street in 1976. The building has now been restored to its former glory.
Business owner David Lynn said: “We're delighted with the renovations and we've had good feedback from customers. It's good that the whole block of shops has been improved as the architects have ensured that the buildings complement each other. Knowing that the roof and chimneys have been restored, cast iron drainpipes and gutters installed, windows fitted and walls re-pointed is reassuring, especially during these tough economic times.” Work will begin on Gordon Mackinnon's photography shop later this year. “The THI has opened my eyes as to how my building should be renovated. Without their help I fear I may have gone down a cost cutting route to improve the building with no real thought as to how it stands in town centre. With the help of the THI, I’ll have a building I can be proud of, that helps to improve Bedlington town centre.”
Councillor Tom Brechany, executive member responsible for regeneration at Northumberland County Council, said: “The regeneration programme aims to give Bedlington town centre a new lease of life – making significant improvements to the visual aspects of the conservation area and it also helps to boost local trade and bring more people to the town centre.” More than £900,000 is available for building conservation grants. The scheme is due to end in December 2013. This work follows on from other improvements in the town including the restoration of the market place, where the weekly Thursday market is going from strength to strength. A leaflet providing information about the Bedlington Conservation Area has also been published.
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Thanks for labour of LOVE
Pictured: Keith Moore, neighbourhood services (left) and Andy Rutherford head of neighbourhood services (right) present Douglas Hoblyn with a LOVE Northumberland certificate in recognition of his service.
The streets of Northumberland are among the cleanest in the country with the help of dedicated resident Douglas Hoblyn. Mr Hoblyn came to the aid of his local council 10 years ago when he volunteered to design a system to map street sweeping routes in the area. He said: “I drew up routes with maps, which could be kept in the cabs of the machines. The system was set up for drivers to feedback on a weekly basis, to report any problems, areas for action and non urgent tasks for the future. I drew up the routes for 45 to 50 different areas, covered by two machines.
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With the introduction of local government reorganisation Mr Hoblyn was asked by Andy Rutherford, head of highways and neighbourhood services at the county council, to carry on with his work in mapping the routes and to roll out his system to the other parts of the county. Mr Hoblyn, aged 81, is originally from Birkenhead on Merseyside, but has lived in Morpeth for 31 years. He used his professional administration skills gained during a 40-year career with the Bank of England to organise the new system for street sweeping. Andy Rutherford, said: “Mr Hoblyn has been an invaluable friend, supporter and ambassador of our service.
“He has acted as a critical friend to ensure we always have the customer view of what local people think of the service delivery. “I would like to personally thank him for his hard work during the past 10 years, which is very much appreciated. I am delighted to recognise his commitment in this way.” Mr Hoblyn has extended the system to Hexham, Prudhoe, Alnwick and Berwick. He is now working with the council to look at the whole of the 'street scene' which includes lighting, signage and footways. Residents who identify signs in need of replacement, cleaning or other maintenance should contact the county council.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Support for apprentices Apprentices past and present from Northumberland County Council shared their experiences to mark National Apprenticeship Week in February. The campaign, now in its fifth year, ran from Monday 6 to Friday 10 February. This special week is all about raising the profile of apprenticeships on offer and the benefits that they can bring to employers and those seeking a new career. Northumberland County Council currently employs 120 apprentices and expects to exceed this target in the next year. Councillor Lesley Rickerby, executive member responsible for children and young people at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are keen to remind job seekers, employers, teachers and parents about the variety of apprenticeships on offer. These apprenticeships, whether in local government, or in other fields, offer a fantastic springboard to a whole range of careers. “Speaking to senior officers at the county council who have come through the apprenticeship route it's clear that they appreciate the grounding it's given them. Those currently going through an apprenticeship also speak of the variety of work on offer and the
Pictured (from left): Dan Lathan, recently qualified apprentice, with Paul MacDonald, site manager and John Collins, charge hand, on Northumberland County Council's fleet services team. opportunities to learn and earn at a time when jobs are in short supply and university fees can be prohibitive.” Paul Macdonald, site manager for Northumberland County Council's fleet services, started his apprenticeship in 1965, serving his time to qualify as a vehicle maintenance technician. He supervises John Collins who also qualified as an apprentice in the same field and Dan Lathan who has recently finished his apprenticeship. Paul said: “The programme has changed significantly since I qualified as a time-served apprentice in the sixties but the principles of earn while you learn and gaining skills for life are the same. In my role as site manager, I have supported a number of apprentices and believe that the skills and
commitment they bring can be invaluable to the needs of the business.” Dan Lathan, said: “The apprenticeship programme has helped me to gain skills and experience across all areas of the vehicle maintenance field; I've worked on a range of vehicles including road gritters and grass cutting vehicles. The work is very varied and my apprenticeship has allowed me to learn from specialists in this field.” John Collins, charge hand on the county council's fleet services team, said: “I learned my trade as an apprentice in the seventies and qualified in 1979 following a four-year programme as a mechanic. I now support other apprentices in the team to develop their skills and support the services we provide in Northumberland.”
For more information about apprenticeships at the county council and around Northumberland call 0845 600 6400 and ask to speak to Debra Lowes or email: debra.lowes@northumberland.gov.uk
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Looking for volunteers who LOVE their cars The Getabout voluntary car scheme in Northumberland has become one of the first organisations to sign up to a new web resource to help find more volunteer drivers. The scheme is run by the Woman’s Royal Voluntary Service (WRVS) with funding support from Northumberland County Council. Through Getabout, volunteer drivers offer to take those who do not have access to public transport to places such as doctors' surgeries, to visit friends or relatives or to go shopping. Getabout has signed up to the new volunteering section of the Northumberland Life website which has been developed as part of the LOVE Northumberland campaign. The site allows groups to advertise the opportunities they have for volunteers to get involved - with links to the organisation's contact details and further information so that they can find out more. Councillor Isabel Hunter, executive member responsible for infrastructure and the environment at Northumberland County Council, said: “The Getabout scheme is a superb
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Pictured (left to right): Mrs Shallcross with Getabout volunteer Jan Tuckwell. resource for those residents who don't have access to public transport. “The council provides funding for the scheme as it gives good value for money where supported bus services cannot be justified on cost or usage grounds. “There is a great link between schemes like Getabout and LOVE Northumberland because the campaign celebrates and supports volunteering, which is where the new web resource is a superb tool.” Carol Nevison, service delivery manager for the WRVS, said: “We are always looking for new drivers, and anyone who has a valid driving licence and some spare time on their hands can help us by offering their services. The scheme offers a fantastic opportunity to use your skills
and time to help other people within your community.” Councillor Ian Lindley, executive member responsible for adult care and well-being at the council added: “I am very pleased to see that the Getabout scheme has signed up to the LOVE Northumberland webresource. Volunteers are essential to this initiative, which makes a very valuable contribution to people's well-being by helping them to become more independent within their communities.” For more information about volunteering in Northumberland go to: www.northumberlandlife.org If you think you might be able to get involved in the Getabout scheme and want to find out more, call Rachelle Atchison on 0783 475 3387 or 0845 266 8906.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
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Northumberland gets set for digital Digital TV switchover is the biggest change in television since the introduction of colour. In September 2012 analogue television will be switched off across the Tyne Tees region. If you do not have digital TV by the time of switchover, you will lose your TV channels. If you are still watching analogue TV (five channels or fewer) on any of your sets, you need to convert them to digital. Virtually any existing TV can be converted using a Freeview box, a digital satellite service or digital cable. For older and disabled viewers who may find making the switch difficult, the BBC-run Switchover Help Scheme is at hand to provide everything you need to switch one TV set to digital. Most people will be asked to pay ÂŁ40 towards the standard option of help. For eligible people on income-related benefits, it's free. This includes easy to use equipment, an approved installer to supply and install the equipment, and a 12 month aftercare service including a free helpline. If you are 75 and over or eligible disabled, the Help Scheme will write to you directly and in plenty of time to ask if you want help. If you have any questions about switchover, you can call the Digital UK advice line on 08456 50 50 50 or visit: digitaluk.co.uk.
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For further information on the Switchover Help Scheme visit: helpscheme.co.uk or call free on 0800 40 85 900. Textphone users can call 0800 40 85 936.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Passport to safer travel A national scheme to improve safety standards for wheelchair users has been introduced by Northumberland County Council. The Wheelchair Passport Scheme, adopted by the British Standards Institute, aims to improve safety for wheelchair users travelling in motor vehicles. The scheme gives essential information to taxi and mini-bus drivers and passenger assistants on how a wheelchair should be secured inside a vehicle.
The passport, a small pouch which attaches to a wheelchair, contains information about how to secure the chair and advice about the needs of each particular user. Pupils from Priory School Hexham helped to launch the passport in Northumberland last month. Parents of the Priory School pupils welcomed the passports as did the taxi drivers who took part on launch day.
of making sure drivers and assistants have the information they need to keep wheelchair users safe while travelling in vehicles.� Pictured (from left): Steve Humble, driver; India Brown, Priory School pupil; Ina Thompson, passenger assistant; Amy Archer, Priory School pupil; Sue Burgon, driver and Beth Robson, passenger assistant.
Councillor Lesley Rickerby, executive member for children and young people, said: “This is a simple and very effective way
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Ashington community consultation People living and working in and around Ashington have been thanked for their views about the proposals for an exciting new leisure and community facility for the town. As part of an eight week consultation, which began on 5 December 2011, questionnaires were made available to residents and businesses in Ashington to seek views on the proposed sites for a new facility and the services they would like to see included in it. Questionnaires were also available from public places and via the county council’s website. Public information sessions were also held in December and January.
Northumberland County Council currently has a range of facilities in Ashington but many are in need of investment.
The council's executive has already agreed to a substantial investment of up to £20 million for a new or a fully refurbished multi-purpose, modern centre which is likely to incorporate a pool, gym and studio space, a registrar’s office, a library service, access to information, advice and council services, a café and meeting space.
During the past year the council has been exploring the opportunities for bringing a range of services together under one roof and building a new, high quality centre for those who live, work or study in Ashington and the surrounding areas.
Additional services and activities that might be provided include healthcare information services, such as a doctor's surgery, pharmacy, learning and skills development opportunities and a wider range of sporting activities.
The results are now being considered and details of the next steps will be available later this year.
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A thorough review of a number of possible sites for the facility has been conducted and the list has been narrowed down to two possibilities. They are the former Asda site in the centre of town and the former hospital site on West View. Both sites have been chosen because of their central location and the impact they will have on the revitalisation of the town centre. Discussions are underway with both land owners about the possibility of buying them.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
11th Februa
ry – 3rd Sept
ember 2012
www.experiencewoodhorn.com
Aliens and robots have invaded Woodhorn to take part in an exciting exhibition that will have sci-fi fans flocking to the museum. Costumes, props and machines from popular TV and sci-fi film blockbusters have been brought together for the exhibition, which runs from February until Monday 3 September. Featuring in the exhibition are costumes from Star Trek: Enterprise, Andromeda, Red Dwarf, Lost in Space and The Chronicles of Riddick. There are aliens from Star Wars, X files, Doctor Who and of course Alien itself. No sci-fi exhibition would be complete without a range of robots and the machines from Red Planet Robot, Robocop and ABC will not disappoint.
Organisers are expecting the exhibition to be a big hit with visitors. Woodhorn's Exhibition Officer Liz Ritson said: “People have flocked to see this show when it has been at other venues, and we know that here in the North East, we enjoy our
sci-fi too. We have transformed our gallery space so it provides the perfect atmosphere and backdrop for this exhibition. It really does promise to be a super show whether you are a real fan or just enjoy a little escapism.”
Invasion runs at Woodhorn until 3 September 2012 Open Wednesday – Sunday 10am – 5pm (plus Monday and Tuesday in school holidays). Admission: £3.95* adult, £3.50* concs, £2.95* child, £12.50 family (2+2) (*includes giftaid donation). All day parking £3. Woodhorn, QEII Country Park, Ashington, NE63 9YF. Phone: 01670 528 080. Admission to the rest of Woodhorn's displays, exhibitions and buildings is free. Visit: www.experiencewoodhorn.com
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Praise for the Stop Smoking Service Single mother Dawn Penman is celebrating a year without cigarettes after her daughter inspired her to quit her 30-year addiction.
cravings I had someone to talk to. I also found chewing gum really helped with cravings too.”
Dawn, 40, from Newbiggin a nurse and mum to eight-year-old Megan Jane, said: “I started smoking when I was very young, and had my first cigarette when I was 7. But it was when I was 13 that I began to smoke more regularly, and up until about a year ago I was smoking 40 to 60 cigarettes a day.” Dawn's father was also a heavy smoker and she saw first hand the affects of smoking on his health. Her mother had to give up work to care for him for 10 years due to his ill health. And his life was cut short at 49 after a series of health issues, including a stroke, emphysema and blindness. Dawn said: “With everything that happened to my dad and having my family, in particular my daughter Megan, constantly on at me to quit I felt pressure to do something about it. “I don't know how I could have done it without the help of NHS Stop Smoking Service. The sessions are all over the place, and if I couldn’t make it they were really flexible and always provided alternatives. I can't imagine ever having a cigarette now. They gave me expert advice and kept in touch so if I felt like I was struggling with the
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Alison Nichol, Northumberland Stop Smoking Service Manager at Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, said; “It's never too late to stop smoking, and I would urge anyone who is thinking of quitting to pop along to the drop-ins and see what help is available. We offer oneto-one support during the day, in the evenings and at weekends as well.” The financial benefits of smoking soon add up too. For the average smoker in one year you could save more than £2,500 (figures based on a 20 a day smoker paying £6.95 per packet of cigarettes).
Pictured: Dawn Penman who stopped smoking a year ago urges others to do the same. NHS Stop Smoking Service in Northumberland runs drop-ins at Ashington Hirst Welfare Centre, 4pm to 6.30pm every Wednesday and at Briardale Community Centre in Blyth 4pm to 6.30pm every Thursday. Evidence shows that you are up to four times more likely to quit if you use the help of NHS Stop Smoking Services. As well as the drop-ins, the Stop Smoking Service in Northumberland has more than 40 clinics throughout the county providing 120 hours per week of stop smoking support.
Dawn added: “I would definitely say to others to have a go at quitting, it's not only improved my health but the money I've saved from not buying cigarettes now means me we get to go on more holidays and I can finally afford to decorate my house.”
For NHS stop smoking services in Northumberland call 01670 813 135 or text 'save' and your postcode to 80888 to find your nearest service. A public awareness campaign promoting NHS stop smoking services is also currently running across the North of Tyne area.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Dangerous drivers warned A successful road safety scheme will be rolled out once again across the county by the Safer Northumberland Partnership. For the past two years, Northumberland County Council, Northumbria Police and Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service have led an initiative aimed at cutting motorbike related accidents on the county's roads. This year, new road signs warning bikers about the dangers of speeding and cornering will be put up on rural roads throughout the county in key locations where police have received reports of dangerous driving. The striking signs, designed to make bikers think twice about speeding, will now be posted in more accident black-spots across Northumberland. The original scheme was launched in 2010 after residents raised concerns with the partnership about bikers driving dangerously on country roads especially during the summer months. Councillor Anita Romer, executive member for public protection, said: “Over the years there have been a number of lives lost on roads in the county.
Pictured (from left): Clare Hart, community safety officer Northumberland County Council, Ritchie Leighton and Callum McDougall, Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, Sgt Neville Wharrier, Michael Connelly, community safety officer, Councillor Anita Romer and Sgt Andrea Teasdale. Last year there were no fatal motorcycle accidents during the months when the signage was out in Northumberland. The success of this scheme indicates that these warning signs can have a positive impact on the behaviour of people who may otherwise drive dangerously on our county's roads.” Alex Bennett, chief fire officer for Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The signs remind people of the potentially horrific consequences of driving irresponsibly, or driving at speed. We want drivers and their passengers to enjoy the countryside but to treat the area with respect and understand the hazards presented on rural roads.”
Chief superintendent for Northumberland Area Command, Jo Farrell, said: "We've had some extremely positive feedback from bikers, other motorists and the general public about the signs. They seem to be making a difference on the roads and are making people think about their driving and their speed. We will do all we can to make Northumberland's roads safer for everyone." The scheme, which runs from April to October each year, the peak time for motorcycle traffic on Northumberland's rural roads, is underpinned by enforcement; police officers will be patrolling the county’s roads taking positive action with anyone caught speeding or riding dangerously.
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Morpeth scheme given final funding approval A £21 million scheme for Morpeth has received final funding approval from Defra and the Environment Agency.
The River Wansbeck flooding Morpeth in 2008.
Work will now continue on drawing up a detailed design of the scheme, which includes a new flood storage area on the River Wansbeck on the Mitford Estate. New defences will also be built at Mitford Road, High Stanners and around Oldgate Bridge, and a few existing defences in the town will be raised where necessary. In May 2011, the government introduced the Partnership Funding model to encourage external contributions so that taxpayers' money is spread across more schemes. Under this model, Northumberland County Council will contribute up to £12 million towards the scheme and a further £10.6 million will be funded by government. Ian Hodge, flood and coastal risk manager for the North East said: "We are delighted by the minister's announcement. Together, the Environment Agency and Northumberland County Council aim to reduce the risk of flooding to more than 1,000 homes and businesses in the town. “The announcement is the result of much hard work by ourselves, the council and the community. It is a fantastic example of what can be achieved by working in
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partnership. We aim to submit a planning application for the scheme this summer and to start work early next year. Councillor Jeff Reid, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “This is a very important scheme for the community of Morpeth and the council is pleased that, despite tough economic times, it has been able to commit funding to ensure that it goes ahead. We are working in partnership with the Environment Agency to develop a detailed design for the scheme.” The scheme will provide protection from the River Wanbeck against a flood which has a 0.73 per cent chance of happening in any one year. It will also help to protect against a flood from Cotting Burn, Church Burn and Postern Burn.
Richard Benyon, Minister for the Natural Environment and Fisheries, said: “The new flood defence schemes will bring huge relief to tens of thousands of households. “Small towns like Cockermouth and Morpeth became household names after the devastation and distress caused by flooding in recent years. “Residents here and in many towns across the country are reaping the rewards of the partnership funding model brought in to enable more flood defence schemes to go ahead. “We now expect to exceed our goal to protect 145,000 more homes from flooding by 2015.” This is one of 60 flood and coastal risk schemes, across the coutry which were approved in February and will begin construction in 2012/13.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Plastic fantastic recycling reward The first of eight monthly Northumberland winners in the North East Recycling Rewards Scheme prize draw have received their prizes. Helen and Keith Cooper from Seaton Delaval were the first winners and chose a laptop computer from the list of prizes. Winners of the second monthly prize were Jim and Claire Fraser from Morpeth who chose a BluRay player and an iPod Touch. Mr Fraser said: "We like to do our bit on the recycling front but never thought that it would lead to us winning something like this. My wife saw the competition on the website when she was checking for the Christmas collection dates, and thought she would give it a try."
The scheme is being run by Waste Aware North East in conjunction with Northumberland County Council and aims to reward environmentally conscious residents and raise awareness of the opportunity to recycle hard plastic bottles and aerosols. This unique promotion is only taking place in five council areas in the North East of England and has been funded entirely by Defra and Valpak Limited, a national provider of environmental solutions. The prizes have been provided by thehut.com Councillor Alan Thompson, responsible for waste management at Northumberland County Council, said: “The
people of Northumberland are very conscious of the role they can play in making our society more sustainable and self sufficient. Our thanks go to the Coopers and the Frasers in particular and the many others in our county who are setting the pace.� Winners can also choose to donate their prize to a local community group of their choice. The competition runs until July 2012. To be in with a chance of winning all you need to do is apply for a unique sticker pack at www.recyclemore.co.uk/nerewards or call 0844 844 4546. The personalised stickers can then be applied to empty hard plastic bottles or aerosol cans before placing in the recycling bin as normal.
Pictured (from left): Councillor Alan Thompson and Sue McClellan from Waste Aware North East presenting the recycling competition prizes to Keith Cooper from Seaton Delaval and Jim Fraser from Morpeth.
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Could you help safeguard children and young people? Volunteers are needed to join the Northumberland Safeguarding Children Board (NSCB) and help to build closer ties with the local community. The NSCB is made up of senior representatives from all organisations in Northumberland who are involved in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Two local residents are required to become lay members of the board. Their role will be to help support these organisations and develop closer links with the community so that there is a better understanding of the board's child protection and child safety work across the county. Those chosen for the role will attend board meetings and contribute to discussions. They will also be able to challenge decisions helping to ensure the NSCB is focussed, responsible and responsive. The role is a voluntary one, although expenses such as travel costs will be reimbursed if required. Ideally, candidates will live in Northumberland and have close ties with local community organisations. A commitment to
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improving welfare and safeguarding for children and young people is essential as is the ability to contribute to the work of the NSCB, ask questions, challenge assumptions and offer feedback to provide and an independent voice to the board.
An enhanced CRB disclosure with a Children and Adults' barred list check will be required for this role. You may not apply if you have been employed by any agency represented on Northumberland Safeguarding Children Board in the past 12 months.
If you would like an application pack or to discuss the role further, please contact Saira Park. Phone: 01670 533503 Email: Saira.Park@northumberland.gov.uk The closing date for applications is 19 March 2012.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Parking – changes pending Parking enforcement in Northumberland is set to change next month. On 16 April 2012 The Department for Transport will formally complete the Civil Parking Enforcement Order and Northumberland County Council will take over the enforcement of on-street parking from Northumbria Police. A team of civil enforcement officers and supervisors has been recruited to oversee street operations and the county council has produced a handy guide to the changes, and advice about how not to get a penalty charge notice.
and improve road safety throughout the county. Councillor Isabel Hunter, responsible for infrastructure and environment at Northumberland County Council, said: “Effective parking control allows us to unblock our streets making the roads safer, especially in emergencies. These new regulations will free up valuable police resources and allow for the creation of a bigger team to cover the county. “We will continue to work closely with Northumbria Police to ensure that the transition and future arrangements run smoothly.”
Northumberland area command superintendent Mick Paterson said: “We're always looking to resolve local issues and tackle the priorities that matter to our communities and from speaking to residents and local businesses we know inconsiderate parking is a concern throughout the county. “These changes to parking regulations will benefit our communities. We'll be working closely with the parking enforcement officers and while they focus their attentions on addressing parking issues, police officers can continue with their other duties that keep the county safe."
It is important to note that parking restrictions themselves are not changing, only the means of enforcement. With more officers and supervisors to oversee enforcement the aim is to reduce illegal parking, better manage traffic flow,
To find out more about the changes visit: parking.northumberland.gov.uk 27
Whats on? March The role of women in Newbiggin's History Thursday 8 March Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbiggin www.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk Just Add Water – National Science and Engineering Week Sunday 11 March Cragside, Rothbury www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside Meet the Conservator Friday 16 March Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Just Add Water – National Science and Engineering Week Saturday 17 March Cragside, Rothbury www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside Brick and Steel Border Counties Rally Saturday 17 March Kielder Water & Forest Park www.bordercountiesrally.co.uk Make Things With Your Mum Sunday 18 March Wallington www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington INVASION! Until 3 September Woodhorn T: 01670 528080 www.experiencewoodhorn.com See amazing props and costumes from sci-fi films and television shows including Star Wars, Dr Who, Aliens and many more. Housesteads Roman Fort: re-opens Easter 2012 A new interactive and audiovisual exhibition explores life at the hilltop fortress and civilian settlement on the northerly edge of the Roman Empire. Talk Time at Wallington: The Golden Age of Northumbria Tuesday 20 March Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773600 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
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Wild Walk at Wallington – Treemendous Trees Saturday 24 March Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773963 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Northumberland Residents' Festival Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 March Northumberland www.northumberland.gov.uk Burgham Horse Trials Saturday 24 and Sunday 25 March Burgham www.burghamhorsetrials.co.uk Woodland Heritage Day Sunday 25 March Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Run Northumberland Half Marathon Sunday 25 March Wallington, Morpeth www.runnorthumberland.org Talk Time at Wallington: The Life of Charles Phillips Trevelyan Tuesday 27 March Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773600 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Medieval Craft Training Wednesday 28 to Friday 30 March Alnwick www.alnwickcastle.com Allendale Challenge Saturday 31 March Allendale T: 01669 620333 www.northoftynesearchandrescue.org.uk Water Wizards Saturday 31 March to Sunday 15 April Cragside, Rothbury www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens Lambing Weekend Saturday 31 March and Sunday 1 April www.kirkleyhallzoo.co.uk Celebrate the first signs of spring by visiting the new born lambs.
April Lets go and fly a kite! Sunday 1 to Saturday 14 April Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbiggin www.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk Bird/Bat Boxes Tuesday 3 April Plessey Woods, Bedlington E:plesseywoods@northumberland.gov.uk Forest Family Fun Tuesday 3 April Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773963 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Medieval Jesting Tuesday 3 to Thursday 5 April Alnwick www.alnwickcastle.com Easter Egg Decorating with Kenspeckle Kirkley Hall Friday 6 April www.kirkleyhallzoo.co.uk Easter Eggstravaganza Friday 6 to Monday 9 April, 11am to 4pm Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Easter Family Fun Trail Friday 6 to Monday 9 April Belsay Hall www.english-heritage.org.uk/events Easter Family Fun Trail Friday 6 to Monday 9 April Warkworth Castle www.english-heritage.org.uk/events Easter Activities for all the Family Friday 6 to Monday 9 April Ford and Etal Estates T: 01890 820338 www.ford-and-etal.co.uk Easter Eggcitement Sunday 8 April Plessey Woods, Bedlington E: plesseywoods@northumberland.gov.uk
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Whats on? Hogwarts Characters Tuesday 10 to Thursday 12 April Alnwick www.alnwickcastle.com
Wild Walk at Wallington – Foraging with Wild Harmony Sunday 22 April Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Building for Birds Thursday 12 April Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Hexham Book Festival Monday 23 April to Thursday 3 May Hexham www.hexhambookfestival.co.uk
Dragon Quest Friday 13 to Sun 15 April Alnwick www.alnwickcastle.com
Talk Time at Wallington: The Painting of a Hat and Ruffles – Suky the Sequel Tuesday 24 April Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773600 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Run Northumberland Cragside 10k Saturday 14 April Cragside, Rothbury www.runnorthumberland.org Bellingham Vintage Vehicle Day Sunday 15 April Bellingham www.bellingham-heritage.org.uk Talk Time at Wallington: The “Other” 1066 Wednesday 18 April Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773600 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington St George's Weekend Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 April Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Bat Walk Wednesday 25 April Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773963 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Cinema night - ‘Up’ Friday 27 April Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbiggin www.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk Try Triathlon Ashington Saturday 28 April T: 0754 0412086 E: tlavender@bval.co.uk Portrait of a Lady Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 April Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
A Tale of Two Dresses Saturday 28 April to Sunday 1 July (excluding Tuesdays) Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington North Tyneside Pipe Band Sunday 29 April Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington National Hunt Racing Hexham Racecourse Hexham T: 01434 606881 www. hexham-racecourse.co.uk Fixtures throughout the year including ladies day on Sunday 24 June. Morpeth Northumbrian Gathering Friday 13 to Sunday 15 April Morpeth Tel: 01670 513308 www.northumbriana.org.uk Colourful festival celebrating the traditional music, dance, craft, dialect and heritage of Northumberland. Haltwhistle Spring Walking Festival Saturday 28 April – Monday 7 May Haltwhistle www.haltwhistlewalkingfestival.org Walks between two and 14 miles and a chance to learn more about drumming, bird watching, singing and conservation.
Sport Relief Miles Northumberland There are hundreds of Sport Relief Mile events taking place across the country on Sunday 25 March. Here is a list of those running in Northumberland: l The Newbiggin Mile l The Druridge Bay Country Park Mile l The Berwick Rugby Club Mile l The Haltwhistle Mile l The Seaton Delaval Hall Mile l The Courant Mile
Newbiggin-by-the-sea Northumberland Berwick upon Tweed Haltwhistle Whitley Bay Corbridge
For more information visit: www.sportrelief.com/the-mile Secure a place at your nearest Mile now. Adults £6; children £3; family of four £15.
To find out more about events happening across the county go to www.visitnorthumberland.com or www.northumberlandlife.org 29
Councilmeetings Thursday, 1 March, 2012
Thursday, 22 March, 2012
l Area Planning Committee - North
l Family and Children's Services Overview and
Alnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 1LA Monday, 5 March, 2012 l Executive Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth
Scrutiny Committee Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth Monday, 2 April, 2012 l Executive
Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth Tuesday, 3 April, 2012
Tuesday, 6 March, 2012 l Planning and Environment Committee Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth Tuesday, 13 March, 2012 l Area Committee - West
Venue to be confirmed
l Planning and Environment Committee
Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth Wednesday, 4 April, 2012 l County Council
Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth Thursday, 5 April, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - North
Wednesday, 14 March, 2012 l Area Committee - South East New Hartley Community Centre, St Michaels Avenue, New Hartley, Northumberland, NE25 0RP l Communities & Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth
Alnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 1LA Tuesday, 10 April, 2012 l Area Committee - West
Venue to be confirmed Wednesday, 11 April, 2012 l Area Committee - South East
Lynemouth Resource Centre Thursday, 15 March, 2012 l Care and Well-being Overview & Scrutiny Committee Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth Monday, 19 March, 2012 l Economic Prosperity & Strategic Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth
Thursday, 12 April, 2012 l Area Committee - North
Venue to be confirmed Monday, 16 April, 2012 l Economic Prosperity & Strategic Services
Overview and Scrutiny Committee Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth Tuesday, 17 April, 2012
Tuesday, 20 March, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - South East Adamson Suite, Choppington Social Welfare, Colliery Road, Scotland Gate, Choppington Wednesday, 21 March, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - West Prospect House l Homes for Northumberland - Strategic Board Council Chamber, Alnwick
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l Area Planning - South East
Isabella Community Centre, Blyth Wednesday, 18 April, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - West
Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth Thursday, 19 April, 2012 l Family and Children's Services Overview and
Scrutiny Committee Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400 Tuesday, 24 April, 2012 l Housing and Care Services Working Group Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth Tuesday, 1 May, 2012 l Planning and Environment Committee Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth Wednesday, 2 May, 2012 l County Council Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth Thursday, 3 May, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - North Alnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 1LA Tuesday, 8 May, 2012 l Executive Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth Wednesday, 9 May, 2012 l Communities & Place Overview & Scrutiny Committee Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth
Monday, 14 May, 2012 l Area Committee - North
Venue to be confirmed Tuesday, 15 May, 2012 l Area Committee - West Venue to be confirmed l Area Planning Committee - South East Adamson Suite, Choppington Social Welfare Centre, Colliery Road, Scotland Gate, Choppington Wednesday, 16 May, 2012 l Area Committee - South East East Hartford Community Centre l Area Planning Committee - West Venue to be confirmed A full list of meetings is available at www.northumberland.gov.uk. Meeting dates and venues can change. Before attending please check the website or contact committee services on 0845 600 6400 to confirm details.
Easter bin collection dates 2012 All bin collections, recycling, general rubbish and garden waste, will be one day late during the week beginning 9 April (the week of Easter Monday).
Garden waste collections The garden waste service will start again during the weeks beginning 5 March and 12 March depending on where you live. 2011 customers have been sent an invitation to renew the service. If you would like to join, please contact us to find out if the service is available in your area on 0845 600 6400 or by email to ask@northumberland.gov.uk. You can find out more and check your scheduled bin days for any of your collections by using the postcode checker at www.northumberland.gov.uk/waste
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