Northumberland News issue 22 Summer 2012
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
LOVE Northumberland awards Apprenticeship incentives Olympic countdown Foster care honours
Plus Planning Northumberland’s future | School music success | What’s on
Northumberland News Now available online, by email or in print.
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Northumberland News is a quarterly magazine packed with features and news articles written specifically for county residents. Published in June, 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 Type Talk: 18001 0845 600 6400 Email: ask@northumberland.gov.uk
In this issue: 5
Photo competition winner
7
Torch Relay update
10
Latest NHS news
16
Apprenticeship events
19
Funding boost for music service
23
Wooler’s award-winning services
27
Solar scheme success
28
What’s on
Front cover:
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.
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Award-winning foster carer, Maxine Hepple (left), with Tony Waas and Joanne Patterson, both members of Futureroute a group offering support to looked after young people in Northumberland. All three pictured attended the Northumberland Family Placement Training Awards (NoFTAs) held earlier this year. Full story page 18.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Welcome like to mention some of the news about young people in the county with information about apprenticeships (p16), student transport (p17), foster care (p18) and an outstanding result for our children's services department (P20).
As an introduction to this issue of Northumberland News we're focussing on the perspective of three different people. Councillor Jeff Reid, leader of Northumberland County Council said: “Welcome to another packed edition of Northumberland News with all the latest information about your county council. I'd particularly
Councillor Jim Smith has just been made the new council chairman and will be getting out and about across the whole county as part of his duties: “There's loads going on around Northumberland this summer and our Olympic celebrations will make 2012 particularly special for local people. We have lots of things planned and you can read all about it on pages 6 and 7.” Northumberland resident David Taylor (pictured above) will run through Morpeth on 15 June with the Olympic flame as the eyes of the world look on. David is a dedicated fundraiser for St Oswald's Hospice. To raise money for the Gosforth-based charity he has completed many Marathons, a Land's End to
John O'Groats cycle challenge and in 2010 and 2011 he ran the Great North Run with a fridge strapped to his back. “People call me the fridge man” said David, who last year not only carried a fridge but also pushed St Oswald's patient Rebecca Parslow (pictured left) in a wheelchair around the 13 mile course. So far, David has raised more than £10,000 for St Oswald's and was nominated to carry the torch by volunteers at the hospice. “It's an absolute honour to have been chosen to do this and it means a lot that I was nominated by the volunteers” said the 45-year-old. “My wife Jill, daughter Juliette and the rest of the family are as proud as punch. I found out that I'd been picked to carry the torch on my birthday, 16 March, which was a great present.
Find us on: Facebook at: www.northumberland.gov.uk/facebook Twitter at: www.northumberland.gov.uk/twitter YouTube at: www.northumberland.gov.uk/youtube 3
LOVE Northumberland Awards 2012 launched There is still time to enter the second annual LOVE Northumberland awards. The awards are part of the LOVE Northumberland campaign, which aims to promote the work of the county council and all its partners in keeping Northumberland beautiful for the benefit of residents and visitors. Nominations are already up on 2011 and schools, community, voluntary and other groups are being encouraged to put forward projects that preserve and enhance the environment for consideration. Applications are invited from a wide range of projects, but organisers have suggested that they are likely to fall into one of six categories: Best new project; Best ongoing project; Best young people's project; Best children's project; Best project in an urban area and Best coast or countryside project. Judging will be carried out by a panel made up of sponsors, representatives from the county council and local voluntary groups. The awards will be presented to winners and runners-up by the Duchess of Northumberland at The Alnwick Garden on Wednesday July 4. Councillor Alan Thompson, responsible for neighbourhood services and highways at Northumberland County Council, said: “Last year we were extremely impressed with the wealth of community and voluntary effort that goes on
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Pictured: Dominic Malpass and Niamh Brennan from Darras Hall First School, which last year won the Best Children's Project award for the outdoor area developed at the school. day in day out right across Northumberland. I would encourage community groups and volunteers to send in nominations. The application process is not onerous and could result in a prestigious award in acknowledgement of your hard work and efforts.”
operate, and we're extremely pleased to be supporting Northumberland County Council in recognising the contributions made by local people in enhancing their county's environment in the last 12 months.”
Winning entries will receive £250 and runners-up £100. Prize This year, The 'LOVE money will be given to the group Northumberland – rewarding or the project and must be spent community achievement' awards on something that will benefit the are being supported by The project or work in the Banks Group. The Cocommunity. operative's Northumberland Area Committee is also backing the Nomination forms and further awards for the second year as information about the LOVE are a number of other Northumberland campaign are Northumberland-based available at companies and organisations. www.northumberland.gov.uk/ love, by email from Mark Dowdall, environment and environment@northumberland. community director at The gov.uk or by phone on Banks Group, said: “The spirit of 0845 600 6400. The closing the LOVE Northumberland date for applications is Friday, Awards matches our own June 8 and shortlisted applicants will be contacted after commitment to improving the that date. communities in which we
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
LOVEly Northumberland in photos
A huge number of fantastic images of Northumberland were submitted by budding photographers for a competition run through the LOVE Northumberland campaign. Launched on Valentine's Day, the challenge to find the amateur snapper who captured their favourite view of Northumberland brought in more than 240 photographs from 80 people who live around the area.
With amazing pictures taken at locations all over Northumberland, judges at the council had the difficult task of short-listing and choosing a winner.
where I live. There are so many places to visit with spectacular locations. Northumberland has everything from beautiful villages, fantastic unspoilt coast line, castles and great people!”
The winner's photo is pictured above. Congratulations to Andy Robson who received £50 worth of garden centre vouchers for his eye-catching image of Alnmouth.
Short-listed entries will feature in an exhibition in one of the county's libraries and in a gallery on the council's Facebook page.
Andy said: “My interest in photography only started a few years ago when I got a new camera as a Christmas present. I love the outdoors and love taking photos as a hobby especially in Northumberland
Councillor Roger Styring, deputy leader of Northumberland County Council and part of the judging panel, said: “The standard of entries was very high but we felt that this photo captured many different aspects of the county.”
Love Northumberland – Caring for our county is an exciting campaign that aims to promote the work of Northumberland County Council and its partners in preserving and improving the environment, celebrating community spirit and promoting pride in the county. Find out more at www.northumberland.gov.uk/love
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The Olympic Flame is coming to Northumberland
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www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
london 2012 in northumberland Olympic website helps Northumberland to get involved A special website has been set up to help Northumberland residents, schools and businesses to get involved in the London 2012 Olympics.
The website northumberlandin2012. northumberland.gov.uk has been launched by Northumberland County Council to create a central point of information about Olympic inspired events that are taking place around the county in the run up to, and during the Games.
Residents can log on to find out the latest information about the torch relay route through Northumberland and where it can best be viewed. They can also find out where community celebration events are taking place or subscribe to a regular e-bulletin, which provides local information about the 2012 Olympics.
Final preparations for the arrival of the Olympic Torch Relay in Northumberland are being made and you may have spotted special banners attached to lamp posts marking its route through the county. The banners (see right) are being put up to show people where they can stand to watch the torch relay procession and will also indicate temporary road closures on the day of the relay. Thousands of residents are expected to turn out to witness this once in a lifetime spectacle and Northumberland County Council is asking them to leave plenty of time to get to their vantage point as the roads will be closing ahead of the convoy and big crowds are expected. The torch relay, which will be in Northumberland on 14, 15 and 16 June, will be running to a strict timetable. To find out at what time the torch will be passing a community near you log on to northumberlandin2012.northumberland.gov.uk or call 0845 600 6400.
www.northumberland.gov.uk
Banners mark torch relay route OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY IS HERE THURSDAY 14 JUNE
see website for details
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Fire service specialist rescue unit launched A purpose-built, specialist rescue unit has joined the Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service fleet to strengthen emergency response in the county. The vehicle has been specially designed to carry a range of heavy rescue equipment to help fire crews safely extricate casualties from lorries, buses and trains as well as conduct specialist rescues from buildings, sewers and trenches. On board there is a platform designed for all rescue work that requires elevated access, various lighting options to allow rescues to be carried out in difficult conditions as well as a range of the latest heavy duty cutting equipment and shoring devices to stabilise structures.
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Since the unit was launched for operation on 1 March, it has been used in 10 serious incidents including road traffic collisions involving heavy goods vehicles and a building collapse. Powershore equipment was vital when the unit was deployed during the rescue of a man from the sand dunes in Druridge Bay following the collapse of a tunnel he had been digging. Officers were able to stabilise the collapsed sand dune using the powershore system and save the life of the man who had been trapped. Due to the diversity of Northumberland's roads, this particular four-wheel drive vehicle was chosen as it is capable of accessing small country villages as well as providing the speed and stability required on major routes.
Alex Bennett, chief fire officer for Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We have been involved with the design of this vehicle since the project was first scoped. The specialist response unit is a highly adaptable tool that we can use to respond quickly and efficiently to a whole range of serious incidents. Our officers have already demonstrated the invaluable capabilities of the unit during recent incidents where lives have been saved.” Councillor Anita Romer, responsible for public protection at Northumberland County Council, said: “This specialist rescue unit is a wonderful asset to Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service's emergency response. Equipped with the latest devices it will help crews carry out the vital work they do responding to serious incidents in Northumberland.”
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Holy Island trial success A two week trial of eyecatching signs advising visitors to Holy Island to check tide tables before crossing the causeway has been hailed a success. Over the Easter fortnight, two variable message signs were used. The first sign was placed next to the tide tables on the approach to the causeway, with the second placed in a range of locations to gauge where it had the most impact. A Quick Response (QR) barcode was also developed and displayed at various locations around the island. The barcode can be scanned using a smartphone and takes the user straight to the tide table webpage, eliminating the need to type in a web address.
county and parish councillors, was set up and met in November 2011. The group discussed possible options to prevent vehicles becoming stranded in the future and agreed to trial the signs. Surveys, conducted by the Holy Island Partnership during the trial fortnight, showed that the overwhelming majority of visitors took note of the variable message signs and they also felt they were effective in providing information. The Holy Island working group will make a decision on whether more complex and interactive variable message signs should be installed permanently. These would be able to advise motorists of the tide tables and when and if the causeway is shut. It is hoped that these message signs could be wind or solar powered.
Councillor Simon Reed, responsible for infrastructure and environment at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are very pleased with the outcome of the trial of these variable message signs, which are aimed at alerting people to the dangers of the tides and preventing vehicles becoming stranded. The large majority of people we have spoken to said that they felt that the trial signs were an effective warning system for drivers, and the majority had also checked the safe crossing times on the internet or elsewhere before going to the island. “We are now considering the permanent installation of more complex and interactive variable message signs during the summer months. We are also pleased that the newly redesigned tide tables are much easier and clearer to follow.�
The tide timetables have been redesigned to make them clearer and easier to follow and are now available using a smartphone app. These measures were introduced following concerns raised during the summer of 2011 that there had been an increase in the number of vehicles becoming stranded on the causeway. The Holy Island causeway working group, including officers from the county council, Northumbria Police, HM Coastguard, the RNLI and
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Work begins on new health centre for Morpeth
Pictured: Dr Richard Glennie (Greystoke Surgery), Dr Fred O'Neill (Gashouse Lane Surgery) and Fred Smith, Project Manager (Laing O'Rourke).
Building work has begun on Morpeth's ÂŁ18m flagship health centre which will house two of the town's GP practices. The local NHS has invested in the centre - which includes the provision of physiotherapy and outpatient appointments as well as other specialist services - that is being built on the site of a former care home, The Mount at Haggs Field, in Morpeth. It will also include GP and primary care health services as well as diagnostic testing such as x-rays and ultra sound scans which reduces the need for people to go to hospital. As well as new premises for two of the town's GP practices Greystroke and Gas House Lane, the centre will mean access to new, modern healthcare facilities for the 14,000 patients registered at both practices. The health centre also offers the opportunity for integrated working for the staff and patients of Morpeth's third GP practice, Wellway. It is expected that the new centre will be open for patients in 2013.
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Think Pharmacy First for hay fever this summer If you are suffering from hay fever this summer and are entitled to free prescriptions due to low income then you can access Think Pharmacy First for treatment. Think Pharmacy First is great for patients as it gives easier access to treatment for minor ailments without having to make an appointment to see a GP. The scheme is helping to remind people in Northumberland that their local pharmacies are a one stop shop for minor ailments and illnesses including the cold, sore throat, head lice and many more common problems. Look out for the bright yellow posters and window stickers displayed in all pharmacies urging you to Think Pharmacy First.
Improving the healthcare of local people in Northumberland is the main focus of a group of local GP leaders Delivering patient focused, high quality services that will help improve the health of residents in the county is the main focus of a group of Northumberland GPs. A plan which sets out Northumberland Clinical Commissioning Group's (NCCG) vision for the future has been agreed at the recent joint meeting of the boards of Newcastle and North Tyneside Primary Care Trusts and Northumberland Care Trust. The 'clear and credible' commissioning plan spells out Northumberland CCG's intentions that it will look to develop further in the future. NCCG covers all 46 GP practices across the county who are working together to improve health and healthcare for the population of Northumberland, some 330,000 people. To make sure there is a local focus to how money is spent
NHS Continuing Healthcare On 15 March 2012, the Department of Health announced the introduction of deadlines for new cases which require assessment of eligibility for NHS Continuing Healthcare funding. The deadlines apply to previously un-assessed periods of care, which occurred in the following time periods: Time Period 1 April 2004 - 30 September 2007 1 October 2007 - 31 March 2011 1 April 2011 - 31 March 2012
Deadline 30 September 2012 30 September 2012 31 March 2013
on commissioning health services the NCCG has four localities - North, West, Blyth Valley and Central. The plan spells out how Northumberland CCG will continue to work to improve the health outcomes of local people. It also explains what the group plans to commission in terms of healthcare and health services in 2012/13 and beyond. Lead GP Dr Alistair Blair, who has been a partner in Wellway Medical Group in Morpeth for the past 11 years, said: “As a CCG we are focusing on providing healthcare closer to where people live to avoid unnecessary travelling to hospital and to create more support in the community for vulnerable and elderly people and for those with long term conditions to reduce avoidable hospital admissions.� Northumberland CCG is working closely with NHS North of Tyne, the current commissioners of NHS services in the county, to start taking on new responsibilities.
The National Framework for NHS CHC was introduced in 2007 (and revised in 2009) to ensure a nationally consistent process for consideration of NHS CHC eligibility, including the identification of individuals who might require an assessment for eligibility. This announcement introduces a process which will enable any individuals who should have been assessed from 1st April 2004 to 31st March 2012 to be identified and considered as soon as possible. The announcement of these deadlines introduces a process which will enable any individuals who should have been assessed from 1 April 2004 onwards to be identified and considered for eligibility as soon as possible. If you think that this affects you or a family member, then please contact PALS on freephone 0800 032 0202 to obtain further information or email CHC20042012@northoftyne.nhs.uk
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Village discovers diamond in the rough Volunteers have joined forces with the county council to transform a piece of land to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee this year. Belford Village banded together to clear an area of land that had become choked with ivy and litter and, following a suggestion by resident Elizabeth Rogers, trees were planted to create a Jubilee wood. Drawing on the skills of two local forestry workers, Colin Hunter and Alan Rochester, as well as Belford environmental champion Brian Rogers, a plan of action was drawn up between the volunteers and the county council's Neighbourhood Environmental Action Team (NEAT). Rubbish that had accumulated at the site was removed by volunteers and taken away by the council for recycling. Nothing from the site was wasted and tree branches were chipped to provide the foundation for a woodland path. The area was not big enough to take sixty trees but it was decided that 25 would fit. Volunteers agreed that the trees chosen needed to be bird friendly and look good at different times of the year, with blossom and fruit. Brian Rogers contacted all the clubs, schools and societies in the village to ask if they would like to buy a tree for the woodland and all agreed. Border Consultants (Forestry) Ltd.
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Pictured: Molly Anderson and Jean Mather plant a Hawthorn tree on behalf of Bell View Resource Centre. On Saturday 24 March a representative from each group planted a tree and many other local people gathered to watch the creation of the new woodland. The Diamond Jubilee woodland is not finished yet. There are future plans to install gates on Croft Field and South Road and link them with a meandering woodland walk alongside the Belford Burn. The woodland will then be planted with bulbs and flowers. Brian Rogers said: “This has been an excellent partnership between the village and Northumberland County Council
and has enabled us to make a real difference to this area. We could not have done this without their help. I would like to thank the county council in particular Ali Henderson and Mick Tully from NEAT and all the people who have helped transform the area and especially all the groups and societies who bought a tree.” Councillor Alan Thompson, responsible for neighbourhood services at Northumberland County Council, said: “This is an excellent example of people taking ownership of their community, and the council has been very pleased to support their work.”
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CON (CIG) LAB LAB LAB CON (CIG) LAB
Bywell Paul Kelly (Cllr) Home Tel: 01661 835302 Email: Paul.Kelly@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
Bothal Simon Reed (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 810119 Email: Simon.Reed@northumberland.gov.uk
Cramlington Eastfield Barrie Crowther (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 738629 Email: Barrie.Crowther@northumberland.gov.uk
CON (CIG)
Berwick West with Ord Isabel Hunter (Cllr) Home Tel: 01289 306365 Email: Isabel.Hunter@northumberland.gov.uk
Cramlington East Ian Swithenbank (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 716762 Email: Ian.Swithenbank@northumberland.gov.uk
Cramlington North Wayne Daley (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 713286 Email: Wayne.Daley@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
Berwick North Brian Douglas (Cllr) Home Tel: 01289 302851 Email: Brian.Douglas@northumberland.gov.uk
Corbridge Jean Fearon (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 632802 Email: Jean.Fearon@northumberland.gov.uk
Cramlington South East Tom Brechany (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 713031 Email: Thomas.Brechany@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
Berwick East Jim Smith (Cllr) Home Tel: 01289 306496 Email: James.Smith@northumberland.gov.uk
Cowpen Susan Davey (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 369725 Email: Susan.Davey@northumberland.gov.uk
Cramlington Village Alan Armstrong (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 712383 Email: Alan.Armstrong@northumberland.gov.uk
LAB
Bellingham John Riddle (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 220250 Email: John.Riddle@northumberland.gov.uk
College Jimmy Sawyer (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 850942 Email: Jimmy.Sawyer@northumberland.gov.uk
Cramlington West Maureen Brown (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 733940 Email: Maureen.Brown@northumberland.gov.uk
NON-ALIGNED
Bedlington West George Todd (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 827369 Email: George.Todd@northumberland.gov.uk
Choppington Dave Ledger (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 851399 Email: David.Ledger@northumberland.gov.uk
Croft Vince Coils (Cllr) Mobile Tel: 07414 167 174 Email: Vince.Coils@northumberland.gov.uk
CON (CIG)
Bedlington East Val Tyler (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 825252 Email: Valerie.Tyler@northumberland.gov.uk
Chevington with Longhorsley Glen Sanderson (Cllr) Mobile: 07730 979 737 Email: Glen.Sanderson@northumberland.gov.uk
Haltwhistle Ian Hutchinson (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 618944 Email: Ian.Hutchinson@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
CON (CIG) LAB CON (CIG) LAB (LD) (LD)
The chairman of the council is Cllr Jim Smith and his deputy is Cllr John Taylor.
LAB
Member for Corporate Resources l Ian Lindley - Executive Member for Adult Care and Well Being l Lesley Rickerby - Executive Member for Children and Young People l Neil Bradbury - Executive Member for Customer Relations and Culture l Tom Brechany - Executive Member for Planning, Housing and Regeneration l Simon Reed - Executive Member for Infrastructure and Environment l Alan Thompson - Executive Member for Neighbourhood Services and Highways l Anita Romer - Executive Member for Health and Public Protection
Bedlington Central Arthur Pegg (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 823963 Email: Arthur.Pegg@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
l Jeff Reid - Leader l Roger Styring - Deputy Leader l Andrew Tebbutt - Executive
Bamburgh Pat Scott (Cllr) Home Tel: 01665 720466 Email: Patricia.Scott@northumberland.gov.uk
CON (CIG)
The leader of the council is Jeff Reid and his executive is made up of a deputy and eight executive members who are responsible for specific working areas:
Ashington Central Tom Wilson (Cllr) Mobile: 07506 416505 Email: Thomas.Wilson@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
Local elections take place every four years; the next will be held in 2013.
Amble West with Warkworth Jeff Watson (Cllr) Mobile: 07802 385367 Email: Jeffrey.Watson@northumberland.gov.uk
IND
This council has 67 elected members who all have a vote on the important decisions that impact on local life.
Amble Robert Arckless (Cllr) BA (Hons), PGCE Home Tel: 01665 711938 Email:Robert.Arckless99@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
Northumberland County Council has a leader and executive system, which acts like a cabinet to shape local policy and make decisions about council services.
Alnwick Gordon Castle (Cllr) Home Tel: 01665 604664 Email: Gordon.Castle@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
Northumberland has one council for the whole county with each electoral division represented by a unitary councillor.
IND
Know your councillors
Hartley Anita Romer (Cllr) Home Tel: 0191 2375163 Email: Anita.Romer@northumberland.gov.uk
Kitty Brewster Grant Davey (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 369725 Email: jgrantdavey@googlemail.com
CON (CIG)
Ponteland South with Heddon Peter Jackson (Cllr) Home Tel: 01830 530218 Email: Peter.Jackson@northumberland.gov.uk
Lesbury Roger Styring (Cllr) Home Tel: 01665 830531 Email: Roger.Styring@northumberland.gov.uk
CON (CIG)
Ponteland West Veronica Jones (Cllr) Home Tel: 01830 530337 Email: Veronica.Jones@northumberland.gov.uk
Longhoughton John Taylor (Cllr) Home Tel: 01665 603825 Email: John.Taylor@northumberland.gov.uk
IND
Prudhoe East William Garrett (Cllr) Home Tel: 01661 834291 Email: William.Garrett@northumberland.gov.uk
Lynemouth Milburn Douglas (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 790809 Email: Milburn.Douglas@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
Prudhoe West Neil Bradbury (Cllr) Home Tel: 01661 832933 Email: Neil.Bradbury@northumberland.gov.uk
Morpeth Kirkhill Andrew Tebbutt (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 511631 Email: Andrew.Tebbutt@northumberland.gov.uk
NON-ALIGNED
Rothbury Steven Bridgett (Cllr) Home Tel: 01669 622999 Email: Steven.Bridgett@northumberland.gov.uk
LAB LAB CON (CIG)
CON (CIG)
Ponteland North Richard Dodd (Cllr) Home Tel: 01661 881192 Email: Richard.Dodd@northumberland.gov.uk
LAB
Isabella Gordon Webb (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 365118 Email: Gordon.Webb@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
CON (CIG)
Ponteland East Eileen Armstrong (Cllr) Home Tel: 01661 825432 Email: Eileen.Armstrong@northumberland.gov.uk
South Blyth Lesley Rickerby (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 540335 Email: Lesley.Rickerby@northumberland.gov.uk
CON (CIG)
CON (CIG)
Humshaugh Edward Heslop (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 681424 Email: Edward.Heslop@northumberland.gov.uk
Sleekburn Jeff Gobin Home Tel: 01670 822539
South Tynedale Colin Horncastle (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 618259 Email: Colin.Horncastle@northumberland.gov.uk
LAB
(LD)
Plessey Jeff Reid (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 544113 Email: Jeff.Reid@northumberland.gov.uk
Shilbottle Trevor Thorne (Cllr) Home Tel: 01665 570249 Email: embleton@btinternet.com
Stakeford Julie Foster Home Tel: 01670 825146 Email: Julie.Foster@northumberland.gov.uk
CON (CIG)
(LD)
Holywell Bobby Nixon (Cllr) Home Tel: 0191 2370976 Email: Bobby.Nixon@northumberland.gov.uk
Email:Margaret.Richards01@northumberland.gov.uk
Stocksfield and Broomhaugh Anne Dale (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 673326 Email: Anne.Dale@northumberland.gov.uk
CON (CIG)
(LD)
Pegswood David Woodard (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 790751 Email: David.Woodard@northumberland.gov.uk
Seghill with Seaton Delaval Margaret Richards (Cllr) Home Tel: 0191 2370596
Ulgham David Towns (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 775413 Email: David.Towns@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
LAB
Hirst Ken Parry (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 855085 Email: Ken.Parry@northumberland.gov.uk
Newsham Deirdre Campbell (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 355242
Seaton with Newbiggin West Jim Lang (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 856911 Email: Jim.Lang@northumberland.gov.uk
Wensleydale Ian Tompkins (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 355318 Email: Ian.Tompkins@northumberland.gov.uk
CON (CIG)
(LD)
Norham and Islandshires Dougie Watkin (Cllr) Home Tel: 01289 382324 Email: DouWatkin@aol.com
LAB
(LD)
(LD)
Hexham West Derek Kennedy (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 607669 Email: Derek.Kennedy@northumberland.gov.uk
LAB
(LD) (LD)
Newbiggin Central and East Alan Thompson (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 818358 Email: Alan.Thompson@northumberland.gov.uk
LAB
CON (CIG)
Hexham East Ingrid Brook (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 605282 Email: Ingrid.Brook@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
(LD) CON (CIG)
Hexham Central with Acomb Terry Robson (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 607770 Email: Terry.Robson@northumberland.gov.uk
IND
Morpeth Stobhill Ian Lindley (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 515217 Email: Ian.Lindley@northumberland.gov.uk
LAB
Haydon and Hadrian Alan Sharp (Cllr) Home Tel: 01434 320167 Email: Alan.Sharp@northumberland.gov.uk
Morpeth North David Moore (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 504683 Email: David.Moore@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
Haydon Marcia Bircham (Cllr) Home Tel: 01670 819287 Email: Marcia.Bircham@northumberland.gov.uk
(LD)
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Wooler Anthony Murray Home Tel: 01668 281062 Email: Anthony.Murray99@northumberland.gov.uk
For more details of how the council works, when key meetings take place and how to get in touch with your councillor, visit the council website at www.northumberland. gov.uk/76 15
Apprenticeships – incentives for all A highlight of the Hexham event came from two apprentices, Sophie Fairless and Annie Stoker who spoke about their apprenticeship experience. Both Sophie (below, left) and Annie (right) work at Surestart in Hexham. Lesley Grieve, Surestart Centre manager described her two star apprentices as “Outstanding employees willing to go the extra mile.” Pictured: Debra Lowes (front left) Northumberland County Council’s lead apprenticeship officer with employers and advisors who took park in the Hexham event.
In support of a national apprenticeship push the county council ran a series of events for local employers to advise them about the financial incentives available when taking on apprentices. As part of the 100 in 100 days promotion, a natioinal campaign which aims to generate 100 apprenticeships in 100 days in different regions across the country, events were held through April and May at The Mart in Hexham, Longhirst Hall, Morpeth and The Workspace, Berwick. Employers attending the events were able to gather information and seek advice throughout the evening from partners including,
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Jobcentre Plus, SEMTA (sector skills council for Engineering and Manufacturing), North East Chamber of Commerce and Trade Union Corporation. Chris Seabourne, Employer Account Manager of The National Apprenticeship Service gave a presentation advising employers of the Apprenticeship Grant for Employers (AGE) incentive funds of £1500 available to support eligible small to medium sized employers to support the recruitment of young people aged 16-24 years. For further information about apprenticeships and the grant incentives available, contact Debra Lowes on 01670 622791 or email debra.lowes@northumberland. gov.uk
So impressed by their enthusiasm and willingness to learn, Lesley is hoping to be able to progress both girls to Level 3 in Childcare. Sophie and Annie are currently working through their Level 2 in Childcare Apprenticeship with the Council's Adult Learning Services.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Heading to post 16 education? Get your transport sorted now! Students are urged to apply early and apply online for their post-16 travel pass to guarantee it will be ready for the start of the school term in September. The county council provides free student travel to full-time students attending high school sixth forms, further education and specialist colleges on weekdays during term time. For students to qualify for the pass they must be attending a full time course for at least 12 hours per week at the nearest establishment offering their course of study (or one deemed similar to it by the county council). This establishment must also be at least three miles away from the student's home. Applying for the travel pass online makes the process much more efficient. Students can fill in the form quickly and will be given an e-receipt to let them know their form has been received and how long it will take to process their application. The online form will also alert applicants to what establishments offer their chosen course of study or one similar to it.
Pictured : Rebecca Dyson (front) and fellow sixth form pupils at King Edward VI High School, Morpeth, who all have post-16 travel passes, with Julie Darling (far right), Northumberland County Council network officer. Those who know where they will be studying in September can apply for their pass now and if they do so before 20 July, they are guaranteed to have it by the start of the school term. For those who apply after that date, the council will process the application as quickly as possible but advise it may take up to 15 working days from receipt of an application. Councillor Simon Reed said: “Last year we received around 3,500 applications for passes with almost half of these coming in at the end of August, putting a great pressure on our school transport team and causing students to be disappointed when passes weren't ready in time for the start of the school term.
“For this reason we are urging students to apply as soon as they can if they know where they are intending to study. We will of course endeavour to process all the applications as quickly as possible and applying online will make this easier and more efficient for everyone involved.� For more information and to apply for the student pass online go to www.northumberland.gov.uk For those students who do not have internet access, paper forms are available by writing to: The Integrated Transport Unit, County Hall, Morpeth, NE61 2EF or by calling 0845 600 6400.
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Fantastic foster carers – could this be you too? As National Carers' week approaches on 18 June, Northumberland County Council is keen to hear from anyone who may be thinking about fostering. A series of information evenings has been arranged for people to find out more about foster care and whether this rewarding role is for them. Maxine Hepple, who is pictured on the front cover with Tony Waas and Joanne Patterson, has fostered more than 30 children since the 1990s and often gives advice and information to prospective carers. This year there is a particular focus on fostering teenagers and providing long-term family care. Maxine said: “It's a joy to help young people and help set goals for the future, prepare them for moving into their own place and work towards their aspirations. Even now I am still learning from our young people, they help me develop as a foster carer – you never stop learning.” At the Northumberland Family Placement Training Awards (NoFTAs) held at Alnwick Garden in March, Maxine was one of 34 carers who received a certificate of thanks from looked after children and young people for their important work.
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Pictured (from left): Joanne Patterson, Tony Waas, Karen MacDonald, Northumberland County Council service manager for looked after children, Glen McCrory, The Duchess of Northumberland, Paul Moffat, Northumberland County Council's head of children's services and Councillor Lesley Rickerby. The My Carer Awards were presented by Tony Waas and Joanne Patterson, members of Furtureroute a group offering support to those age 16 and over who have left or are preparing to leave care.
do this and they also provide an opportunity for everyone involved to get together as a reminder of the support that is available to all who take on this important role.”
Information evenings During the same event the Duchess of Northumberland and Deputy Lieutenant, former boxer, Glenn McCrory presented 60 carers with certificates to praise their commitment supporting children and young people. Councillor Lesley Rickerby, who attended the ceremony, said: “It's important that we thank Northumberland's foster carers for the fantastic work they do. The annual awards are a way to
All sessions run 6.30pm to 8pm: 28 June - Ashington 30 August - Berwick 11 October - Blyth 6 December - Hexham 5 February - Cramlington
For more information Visit: www.family.northumberland. gov.uk Email: familyplacement@ northumberland.gov.uk or Call: 01670 534 450.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Grant is music to the ears of brass band enthusiasts The brass band tradition in Bedlington has been given a breath of fresh air thanks to Youth Music funding secured by Northumberland County Council. The notable grant of £44,691 will be used by Northumberland Creative & Performing Arts to fund a two year programme to support the regeneration of a brass band in the Bedlington area through partnerships with schools and communities. The project will build on current brass tuition in first schools with help from Dunston Silver Band and the Northumberland archives at Woodhorn Museum. The young person's project ‘Time Travel Northumberland’, based at Woodhorn, will be supporting the development of a band archive through the collection of audio and video recordings and photographs. Councillor Lesley Rickerby, executive member for children and young people at Northumberland County Council, said: “Brass bands have left such a strong legacy in parts of Northumberland and it is wonderful that this grant will breathe new life into this music tradition. As well as the musical skills pupils learn from their involvement with a brass band, there are many other academic and social benefits as well as links that can be developed with their community and heritage.” For more information about the project email: Kathryn.Walker@northumberland.gov.uk or telephone 01670 624044.
Music hub success A new voice for music education in the north east has been created.
Pictured: Cambois First School pupil Ellie Hawkes.
The music hub, a partnership between Northumberland and Newcastle Music Services, The Sage Gateshead and Newcastle College secured three years of government funding earlier this month. The hub will bring together the four music providers with the aim of creating world class provision for music education for young people, schools and communities in the region. The hub will be launched in September.
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Outstanding result for Northumberland Children's Services The services that protect children and young people across Northumberland have been rated as 'outstanding' by the official government inspectors. Safeguarding and looked after children services in Northumberland are now rated among the best in the country, with Ofsted issuing the best mark available: Grade 1 (Outstanding) for safeguarding. The official report by Oftsed and the Care Quality Commission (CQC) praised Northumberland County Council for its overall effectiveness and a track record of sustained improvement. The report stated: “The overall effectiveness of the council and its partners in safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people is outstanding. Ambition and prioritisation in respect of safeguarding are outstanding across the partnership leading to good quality services with some examples of outstanding practice.” Ofsted also pointed to the concerted efforts to keep young people safe and said the “children and young people report that they feel safe in Northumberland and know how to obtain help if required.” Lesley Rickerby, executive member for children and young people at Northumberland
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County Council said: “This is really good news for young people in Northumberland. What this report says is that Northumberland is a place where council staff, politicians and partner agencies are all working well together to ensure that our young people are safe. “We're delighted that our services are recognised as outstanding and that we've been able to support other local authorities to achieve some of the results that we have delivered in Northumberland. Paul Moffat, corporate director of children's services said: “This is an excellent result for Northumberland and I'm really proud of all the staff who have worked so hard to ensure that young people in the county are getting the first class service they deserve. This is a difficult, complex and sometimes challenging area of work but the public can have every confidence that we're all working hard to make sure that these important services rank among some of the best in the country. “It's particularly pleasing that Ofsted recognise that our
partnership working is outstanding because it's so important that all the various agencies work well together in the best interests of children and young people.” The reported highlighted the role of staff and managers at the council, while also outlining the excellent performance of local partners across Northumberland: “Staff at all levels demonstrate their commitment to good quality services and are highly motivated…..Partnership working is outstanding with many examples of high quality joint work in individual cases and within projects across the county. The role of schools, police, fire service, voluntary and community sector organisations alongside children's services is effective. “Management and leadership of services are outstanding and supported by outstanding performance management and quality assurance systems…….Political leaders have been responsive to new demands where a sound business case has been made.”
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Could you share your life?
Pictured (from left): Kirsty Paterson with Suzanne Murphy and Kimberly Bradshaw.
Are you looking for a more rewarding career? Take a tip from Kirsty and Ian Paterson, from Scremerston near Berwick who loved their jobs so much they decided to take their work home with them – and have never looked back. Husband and wife, Kirsty and Ian, are amongst 40 people who provide a vital source of help and support to adults with a disability, mental health problem, or elderly people through the Shared Lives Northumberland service. Shared Lives Northumberland (previously known as the Adult Placement Scheme) is delivered in partnership with Northumberland County Council and Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. The service, which is in urgent need of new recruits, sees residents around the county paid an allowance to provide
short breaks, long-term and emergency placements within their own homes. Kirsty and Ian have been Shared Lives carers for six years. Before becoming carers Kirsty worked in childcare and as a rehab worker, and Ian worked in the building trade. Ian said: “I really didn't think I could do it, look after someone and live with them. But the training is fantastic and the support from the Shared Lives managers really makes all the difference.” Kirsty and Ian got started as many do offering short-term respite care. Within the first year of being involved Kirsty decided she loved caring in her own home so much she wanted to provide full-time care. Kimberely, 25 and Suzanne, 58, both of whom have learning disabilities, live with Ian and Kirsty on a full-time basis. They
came to live with the Patersons on short respite breaks and both fell in love with the lifestyles they experienced living in Scremerston. Kirsty and Ian also provide short-term respite care. Kirsty said: “We've got a great bunch who come to us for their holidays through Shared Lives and they really join in with the family, and Suzanne and Kimberely, who are like daughters to me.” But as Kirsty admits, it's a big commitment: “You've got to talk to the rest of the family before you get involved. To make it work you've also got to get to know the people you'll be caring for, get to know their ways and let them get to know yours.” For more information about Shared Lives Northumberland call 01670 536 400 or visit www.northumberland.gov.uk/ sharedlives
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Parking - new roles begin On street parking enforcement has been taken over by the county council from Northumbria Police. You may have already seen members of the team of 26 civil parking enforcement officers out and about in your area. Instantly recognisable in their black and red uniforms they will be working throughout the county to enforce parking restrictions and ensure everyone parks correctly. They will monitor on and off street parking and will be able to issue a Penalty Charge Notice (or what you may know as a parking ticket) to any vehicle parked incorrectly. We have produced a guide on 'How NOT to get a Penalty Charge Notice' which can be used as a reference guide for parking regulations and Highway Code information. These are available in libraries and information centres and can be downloaded from our website. Here are some of our tips when it comes to parking in Northumberland: DO l Check the times when you can park l Park within the markings of the bay l Check that the bay has not been suspended l Check the time you have to return to your vehicle l Check that your pay and display ticket or permit and clock is properly displayed before leaving your vehicle DON'T l Stay longer than the maximum length of stay l Park where you know you shouldn't l Ignore a Penalty Charge Notice if you get one l Leave more than one pay and display ticket on show. It is important to emphasise that parking restrictions have not changed, only the means of enforcement.
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Pictured: Some of Northumberland’s Civil Parking Enforcement Officers. Councillor Simon Reed said: “We do not want people to get a penalty charge notice and I would urge people to check where they are parking and refer to the leaflet we have produced. “The fact we now have these powers is certainly a very positive step forward for Northumberland. The new powers allow us to unblock our streets of illegal parking and the associated congestion that it brings, this will make all our roads safer, especially in emergencies.” For more information on civil parking enforcement go to parking.northumberland.gov.uk The main benefits for Northumberland in adopting county-wide enforcement powers include: l Reduction in obstructive parking and associated levels of congestion l More effective management of on and off street parking throughout the county that is consistent with neighbouring authorities in the region l Improved road safety and conditions for vulnerable road users e.g. children, mobility groups, elderly people and cyclists l Improved conditions for public transport l Improved accessibility for local servicing needs, taxi and disabled parking which should support local economic activity.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Joint services a big hit in Wooler A newly refurbished building that offers a range of local services in one of Northumberland's most rural communities has won two prestigious regional awards. The Cheviot Centre's Community Hub in Wooler won the Action For Market Towns Partnership and Strategic Working Award in May as well as the Market Towns Award in the North Zone. The awards were given in recognition of the success achieved by combining Northumberland County Council's library and tourist information centre with community development organisation Glendale Gateway Trust to offer joint services in Wooler's Cheviot Centre. Since re-opening in November 2011 the centre is proving to be a huge hit with local people as well as visitors to the county. By combining the library and TIC services the centre is able to operate seven days a week, instead of the two that it used to be open. This has had a significant impact on library users and led to a 150 per cent increase in library memberships. The number of visitors using each service has also more than doubled. Councillor Neil Bradbury, executive member for customer relations and culture, said: “This new centre is a fantastic
Pictured (from left): Tourist information and library staff Shirley Searl, Shona McClymont and Linda Witson, with Angela Tait, the council's tourist information development officer, at the new Wooler Community Hub. resource for local people and visitors to the area. By working with our local partners and combining these services we've been able to make things much better for local people.
provide a better service while making savings, the trust earns extra income to support its longterm sustainability and the public gets seven day access to the library and tourist information centre.”
“This project has enabled us to increase opening times and make our services in Wooler operate more efficiently. The new centre looks brilliant and will be a hub for the area for many years to come.”
Wooler is a gateway to Northumberland National Park, which boasts beautiful scenery, opportunities for walking and cycling and many historic attractions.
Glendale Gateway Trust director, Tom Johnston, said: “It's a winwin situation all around. The County Council is able to
The old library building has now been handed over to the Trust, which aims to transform the site into affordable housing.
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Planning Northumberland’s future People living and working in Northumberland have been invited to take part in the creation of an important new planning document for the county. Over the summer Northumberland County Council is asking local people, organisations and businesses to contribute to the new Northumberland Core Strategy – a plan that will cover the whole county except the National Park. It will eventually replace policies in former district and borough plans that are still used for day to day planning decisions. Topics for consideration during the consultation include: l Where in the county housing, employment and services should be located l How much housing should be allowed in places where there are very few local services l How to provide affordable housing where it is really needed l How to safeguard important mineral reserves like coal. l How energy can be generated within the county without damaging the environment l How to help wildlife survive while allowing people to enjoy open spaces and the countryside. These are just a few of the issues that the document will cover, with others including: flood risk, shops in town centres, tourist development, waste management, the Green Belt, the landscape and historic environment. Councillor Tom Brechany, responsible for planning, housing and regeneration, said: “The planning issues we are exploring are strategic ones but the options chosen will have a strong bearing on what actually happens on the ground in the towns, villages and countryside of Northumberland. They will decide future council policy on where development can or can't go and how we will protect our environment. I urge people to take part and help shape the county's future.”
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Events are being held throughout the summer to explain the issues and help people respond to questions about them. For more information visit www.northumberland.gov.uk/corestrategy To register to receive updates on the consultation or find out more about the issues and options phone: 01670 623629 or email:planningstrategy@northumberland.gov.uk Here are just some of the facts and figures that must be considered in any future plans: l Northumberland's population is expected to grow from 312,000 to 338,000 by 2033. l Anywhere between 14,000 and 24,000 new homes may be needed by 2030. l By 2021 it is anticipated that almost half of the county’s population will be over 50 years old with as many as 11,000 being over the age of 85. l Northumberland is home to a World Heritage Site, more than 900 Scheduled Monuments and 11 internationally protected species. l The UK Renewable Energy Strategy (2009) requires that 30% of electricity demand will be supplied from renewable resources by 2020. l An estimated 213,000 tonnes of commercial and industrial waste was generated in Northumberland in 2009/10.
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
A house is now a home Empty homes in Northumberland are being brought back into use thanks to an initiative led by the county council and local property owners. A good example of this is in Belsay, where a former police house is now being rented by a Northumberland family thanks to the joint efforts of the council, Belsay Estates and a local councillor. The house had been empty since 2005 and bringing it back into use has been a complicated process due to restricted covenants and freehold issues. With encouragement from the county council, Belsay Estates bought the building in August 2011. The council then discussed accreditation of the property under the landlord accreditation scheme – guaranteeing a quality standard for renting.
Following a total refurbishment, the property was let to the Atkinson family in February 2012. Michael Atkinson said: “We're very pleased with our new home. We've always wanted to live in this house and were so sad to see it empty for so long. We would like to thank Belsay Estates and the council for the work they have done which has made this property available to us.” Laura de Wesselow from Belsay Estates said: “It has been a long battle to bring the police house back into the Estate's ownership and we are thrilled that in doing so we are able to provide another affordable home in the Belsay area. We were delighted to work with the county council on this project and totally support their efforts to bring empty properties back into use.”
Councillor Tom Brechany, responsible for housing at Northumberland County Council, said: “We are working on a number of measures to return longer-term empty private residential properties such as this back into use. This work is very important in increasing the overall housing stock particularly for more affordable properties. We are keen to identify other empty properties in Northumberland so that we can offer owners advice and support in bringing them back into use.” If you know of an empty property that you think could be brought back into use, contact Northumberland County Council's 'existing stock' team on 01670 532212 or 532214.
Pictured (from left): New tenant Michael Atkinson, Cllr Tom Brechany, Laura de Wesselow from Belsay Estates, Cllr Richard Dodd, county councillor for Ponteland North Ward and Christine Cowans, empty homes officer with the council.
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Flood scheme update
Detailed proposals to reduce the risk of flooding from the River Wansbeck are being drawn up for public discussion later this month. Since the Environment Agency confirmed that there would be £9.4m government funding for a flood alleviation scheme in Morpeth, alongside a contribution from the county council of up to £12m, both parties have been working together to draw up plans. The proposed solution for reducing the risk of flooding is a combination of water storage upstream of Morpeth, and improving existing flood defences and building new ones where needed.
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As well as reducing the risk of flooding from the River Wansbeck and the burns in the town centre, the scheme will also look to address some of the surface water flood risk issues in the town.
Key milestones
An update event was held in April for residents, businesses and landowners. Later this month, the county council and Environment Agency will be talking to residents, landowners and interested parties to discuss and gain feedback on the detailed design of the scheme.
Applying for planning permission – expected to be late summer 2012.
Councillor Jeff Reid, leader of Northumberland County Council, said: “We are committed to making sure that the community is not only kept informed of the progress of this important scheme but that they also have the chance to have their input and are able to discuss this with us.”
For more information on the scheme, please visit www.environmentagency.gov.uk/morpeth. These pages will be updated as the scheme progresses. Alternatively, call the county council on 0845 600 6400 or the Environment Agency on 03708 506 506.
Detailed design work – continues until the end of 2012. Consultation on design – June until late summer 2012.
Construction starts – expected early 2013. Construction completed – expected to be Autumn 2014.
How to find out more
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Project full of energy The future is bright for hundreds of residents, schools and offices across the county thanks to an ambitious solar energy scheme. 520 homes in Blyth, Cramlington, Seaton Delaval, Alnwick, Amble and Felton, all managed by Homes for Northumberland, have been fitted with between five and 10 solar photovoltaics (PV) panels and so far systems have been installed in 130 schools and community buildings. The residential phase of the project, which is part of a bid to help eradicate fuel poverty, is now complete. Groundwork North East is managing an associated project called 'Green Doctor' to further reduce fuel poverty, switch people onto better tariffs and help residents understand how to get the best from their solar PV.
power works and how schools can reduce their energy usage. Other buildings benefitting from the panels include Northumberland Fire and Rescue stations, libraries, community centres and county council offices. For all homes and buildings the county council maintains the systems for the next 25 years. The project has been delivered on behalf of the council by GB Renewable Energy. Ponteland First School is just one of those to have taken part in the scheme. The school won a Gold Medal Award on EDF Energy's the Pod website for their efforts in Switch Off Fortnight.
Kate Cowling, Northumberland County Council's education worker for solar PV and sustainability said: “I visited the school to talk about their new solar panels and suggested some energy saving ideas. The school’s Eco Council completed an audit of lights left on in school over lunchtime. The Eco Council decided to write to parents explaining what the school was doing to save energy. Parents and children were invited to send in their ideas on sun templates which were then put up on display in the school hall. At the end of the fortnight the Eco Council completed another audit of lights and found that 95 more lights were being switched off in school.”
There are still a handful of community buildings to complete. Buildings are fitted with between eight and 40 panels and schools make up 60 per cent of the installations. It is estimated that each school will save approximately £590 a year on electricity. The project is accompanied by education work as a county council officer visits schools to run assemblies and class sessions explaining how solar
Pictured: Kate Cowling (centre) Northumberland County Council, and teacher Kathleen Ramsay with children from Ponteland First School.
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Whats on? June
Medieval Royal Combat Thursday 7th, Friday 8th & Saturday 9th Warkworth Castle www.english-heritage.org.uk/warkworth
Trade Secrets – Conservation in Action Friday 1st, 15th & 29th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Vanguard Craft Tour Friday 8th - Saturday 16th Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbiggin-bythe-Sea www.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk
Hexham Rowing Regatta Saturday 2nd Hexham www. hexhamrowingregatta.co.uk
Hogwarts Characters Friday 8th – Sunday 10th Alnwick Castle www.alnwickcastle.com
Jubilee Celebrations Saturday 2nd – Tuesday 5th Alnwick Castle www.alnwickcastle.com
Scottish Country Dancing Saturday 9th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Best of British Saturday 2nd – Tuesday 5th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Belford Flower Festival Sat 2nd – Tues 5th Belford T: 01668 219443 The Druridge Bay 10k Run Sunday 3rd Druridge Bay www.db10k.jimdo.com Medieval Royal Combat Sunday 3rd, Monday 4th & Tuesday 5th Belsay Hall www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay Bushcraft Taster Session with Wild Harmony Sunday 3rd, Thursday 7th & Friday 8th Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773963 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Rothbury Street Fair Monday 4th Rothbury E: tic.rothbury@nnpa.org.uk County Show Monday Monday 4th Tynedale Park, Corbridge info@northcountyshow.co.uk Gaynor Shotton 01434 604216
Northumberland Miners’ Picnic Saturday 9th June Woodhorn T: 01670 528080 www.experiencewoodhorn.com The Roman Wall Show Saturday 9th Twice Brewed T: 01434 344222 Annual Steam & Vintage Rally Saturday 9th - Sunday 10th Corbridge T: 01434 672253 Cars in the Courtyard – Morris Minors Sunday 10th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Morpeth Fair Sunday 10th Morpeth T: 01670 535200 Tynedale Beer Festival Thursday 14th – Saturday 16th June Corbridge www.tynedalebeerfestival.org.uk
Special Evening Garden Tour Saturday 16th Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773600 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Spittal Gala Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th Spittal, Berwick-upon-Tweed T: 01289 306387 www.spittalisgreat.co.uk Fabulous Fathers Day Sunday 17th Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens www.kirkleyhallzoo.co.uk Dangerous Day Out With Your Dad Sunday 17th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Open Air Theatre – Henry V Sunday 17th Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 08442491895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Alnmouth Arts Festival Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th June www.alnmouthartsfestival.com Wild Walk at Wallington – Wildlife of the Wannie Line Saturday 23rd Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773963 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Rothbury and Coquetdale Walking Festival Saturday 23rd – Saturday 30th Rothbury www.rothburywalking.co.uk Have-a-go Archery Sunday 24th Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay Teddy Bears Picnic Sunday 24th Kirkley Hall Zoological Gardens www.kirkleyhallzoo.co.uk
Summer Bash Wed Wednesday 6th – Friday 8th Cragside, Rothbury www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside
Mighty Dub Fest (Volkswagen Family Weekend Festival) Friday 15th - Sunday 17th Druridge Bay www.mightydubfest.co.uk
Meet the Grower Sunday 24th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Time Travellers Go….Royal Wednesday 6th – Sunday 10th Belsay Hall www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay
Ovingham Goose Fair Saturday 16th Ovingham www.ovinghamgoosefair.org.uk
Northumbrian Clog Dancers Sunday 24th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
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www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Whats on? Talk Time at Wallington: The Wars of the Roses – Northern Feuds Fought on the National Stage Monday 25th Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773600 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Cinema Night Friday 29th Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbiggin-bythe-Sea www.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk
Alnwick Book Fair Saturday 7th Alnwick anthony@keelrowbookshop.co.uk
Cars in the Courtyard - Minis Sunday 15th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Cambo Village Fete Saturday 7th Cambo, Morpeth T:01670 773600
Talk Time at Wallington – Peeling Back the Layers Tuesday 17th Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773600 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Corbridge Festival Saturday 7th Corbridge www.corbridge-festival.org.uk
Crowning of Tweedmouth Salmon Queen Thursday 19th Tweedmouth Georgiehill77@yahoo.co.uk
Cragside Challenge Walk Saturday 30th Cragside, Rothbury www.rothburywalking.co.uk
Vintage Car Rally Sunday 8th Woodhorn T: 01670 528080
July
4x4 Safari – Family event, drive your own 4 x 4 through Kielder Forest! Sun 8th www.gton.co.uk or call 08445 889 965.
Hexham Carnival Sunday 1st Hexham www.visithexham.net
Ask the Wallington Gardener Sunday 8th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Cars in the Courtyard – Jaguars Sunday 1st Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Romeo and Juliet Friday 13th Warkworth Castle Booking: T: 01665 711423 www.english-heritage.org.uk/warkworth
Time Travellers Go…. Archaeology Saturday 21st– Friday 27th Chesters Roman Fort www.english-heritage.org.uk/chesters
Digging up the Past Sunday 1st Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Rothbury Traditional Music Festival Friday 13th – Sunday 15th Rothbury www.rothbury-traditional-music.co.uk
Tweedmouth Feast – Display of Floats Sunday 22nd Berwick brian.douglas@northumberland.gov.uk
Splash Festival – Cragside’s Water Festival Tuesday 3rd – Sunday 9th Cragside, Rothbury www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cragside
Burgham Horse Trials Friday 13th – Sunday 15th Burgham www.burghamhorsetrials.co.uk
Northumberland Coastal Run Sunday 22nd Beadnell www.alnwickharriers.co.uk
Wild Walk at Wallington – Greenleighton Walk Saturday 14th Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 01670 773963 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Glendale Festival Sunday 22nd Wooler T: 01668 282406 www.wooler.org.uk
Brinkburn Music Festival Friday 6th – Sunday 8th Brinkburn Priory www.brinkburnmusic.org Wallington – What Lies Beneath? Saturday 7th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Otterburn Village Festival Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th Otterburn www.otterburnfestival.com
The Chevy Chase Saturday 7th Wooler www.woolerrunningclub.co.uk
Scottish Country Dancing Sunday 15th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
We are 1 – Family Day Saturday 21st Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbiggin www.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk Tweedmouth Feast Carnival Saturday 21st Tweedmouth Green, Berwick Georgiehill77@yahoo.co.uk Time Travellers Go…Medieval Saturday 21st July – Friday 24th Aug Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay
Medieval Jesting Tuesday 24th – Thursday 26th Alnwick Castle www.alnwickcastle.com Puzzled by Plants Wednesday 25th Wallington, Morpeth askthewallingtongardener@nationaltrust. org.uk www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
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Whats on? Medieval Death and Disease Wednesday 25th & Thursday 26th Warkworth Castle www.english-heritage.org.uk/warkworth
Corbridge Chamber Music Festival Friday 10th – Sunday 12th Corbridge www.thisiscorbridge.co.uk
Soldiers of the Wall Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th Housesteads Roman Fort www.english-heritage.org.uk/housesteads
Time Travellers Go…. Archaeology Monday 30 July – Monday 27 Aug Chesters Roman Fort www.english-heritage.org.uk/chesters
Emma by Jane Austen Saturday 11th Belsay Hall Bookings: T: 01661 881636 www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay
Open Air Theatre – HMS Pinafore Saturday 18th Wallington, Morpeth Booking essential: T: 0844 2491895 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
August
Viking Raiders Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th Lindisfarne Priory Explore a Viking encampment to discover the rigours and entertainments of Viking campaigning. Witness grisly displays of combat culminating in a full-scale, deadly battle with the re-enactors of The Vikings. www.englishheritage.org.uk/lindisfarne
Chivalry and the Knight Wednesday 1st & Thursday 2nd, Wednesday 8th & Thursday 9th, Wednesday 15th & Thursday 16th, Wednesday 22nd & Thursday 23rd, Wednesday 29th & Thursday 30th Warkworth Castle www.english-heritage.org.uk/warkworth Powburn Show Saturday 4th Powburn www.powburnshow.co.uk Mrs Wilson 01665 578576 Alnwick Music Festival Saturday 4th – Saturday 11th www.alnwickmusicfestival.com Smooth Sundays at Blyth Bandstand Sunday 5th August - Sunday 9th September Blyth T: 01670 542267 www.bval.co.uk The Railway Children Sunday 5th Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens Bookings: T: 01661 881636 www.english-heritage.org.uk/events Wallington Pipers Sunday 5th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington Viking and Saxon Boats Monday 6th – Friday 10th Lindisfarne Priory www.english-heritage.org.uk/lindisfarne
Slaley Show Saturday 11th Slaley T: 01434 673782 www.slaleyshow.org.uk Glanton Show Saturday 11th Glanton www.glantononline.net Liz Knox 01665 574992 St Cuthbert’s Way Challenge Saturday 11th Wooler www.shepherdswalks.co.uk
Fuchsia Society Show Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay Animatronic Dragon Friday 24th – Monday 27th Alnwick Castle www.alnwickcastle.com Bellingham Show Saturday 25th Bellingham T: 07734294831 Rennington Scarecrow Event Saturday 25th - Monday 27th Rennington T: 01665 577535 Grand Medieval Joust Saturday 25th, Sunday 26th & Monday 27th Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens www.english-heritage.org.uk/belsay Teddy Bear’s Picnic Sunday 26th & Monday 27th Wallington, Morpeth www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wallington
Spittal Seaside Festival Saturday 11th - Sunday 12th Spittal, Berwick-upon-Tweed T: 01289 306387 www.spittalisgreat.co.uk
Glendale Show Monday 27th Wooler www.glendaleshow.com
Simonside Country Fair Sunday 12th Simonside, Rothbury T: 01669 621954
Morpeth Olympics! Sunday 29th August Ellington Colliery Band, 01670 503866 www.gmdt.net
Warkworth Show Saturday 18th Warkworth www.warkworth.co.uk/warkworthflowershow
Cinema Night Friday 31st Newbiggin Maritime Centre, Newbiggin-bythe-Sea www.newbigginmaritimecentre.org.uk
Whittingham Show Saturday 18th Whittingham www.whittinghamshow.co.uk Ian Blakey 01665 574384
Medieval Michaelmas Friday 31st Alnwick Castle www.alnwickcastle.com
To find out more about events happening across the county go to www.visitnorthumberland.com or www.northumberlandlife.org 30
www.northumberland.gov.uk | Phone 0845 600 6400
Councilmeetings Wednesday, 6 June, 2012 l Planning and Environment Committee 6pm Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth. Thursday, 7 June, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - North 6pm Alnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 1LA. Monday, 11 June, 2012 l Area Committee - North 6pm Venue to be confirmed. Tuesday, 12 June, 2012 l Area Committee - West 6pm Wark Village Hall. Wednesday, 13 June, 2012 l Area Committee - South East 6pm Bothal Suite, Ashington Leisure Centre, Institute Road, Ashington, NE63 8HP. Monday, 18 June, 2012 l Executive 2pm Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth. Tuesday, 19 June, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - South East 6pm Venue to be confirmed. Wednesday, 20 June, 2012 l Licensing and Regulatory Committee 1.30 pm Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth, NE61 2EF l Licensing Committee 2pm Isabella Centre, Blyth, NE24 5EJ. Tuesday, 3 July, 2012 l Executive 1pm Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth. Wednesday, 4 July, 2012 l County Council 3pm Council Chamber, County Hall, Morpeth.
Thursday, 5 July, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - North 6pm Alnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 1LA. Monday, 9 July, 2012 l Area Committee - North 6pm Venue to be confirmed. l Executive 2pm Committee Room 1, County Hall, Morpeth. Tuesday, 10 July, 2012 l Area Committee - West 6pm Haltwhistle Library. Wednesday, 11 July, 2012 l Area Committee - South East 6pm The Isabella Centre, Ogle Drive, Blyth, NE24 5EJ. Tuesday, 17 July, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - South East 6pm Adamson Suite, Choppington Social Welfare, Colliery Road, Scotland Gate, Choppington, NE62 5SR. Wednesday, 18 July, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - West 6pm Council Chamber, Prospect House, Hexham. Thursday, 2 August, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - North 6pm Alnwick Council Chamber, Clayport Street, Alnwick, NE66 1LA. Wednesday, 15 August, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - West 6pm Council Chamber, Prospect House, Hexham. Tuesday, 21 August, 2012 l Area Planning Committee - South East 6pm Isabella Centre, Blyth, NE24 5EJ. 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.
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