SouthCambs Magazine
www.scambs.gov.uk
Spring 2015
Are you registered to vote? See page 32
Community grant fund topped up See page 8
Understand your council tax See page 31
A chauffered champagne pun ting experience wor th over ÂŁ200 See page 22
Why Rent When You Could Buy?
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Orwell, South Cambridgeshire
Trumpington, Cambridge
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£TBC*
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HelP TO BuY – SHARed OWneRSHiP if outright purchase isn’t an option, there is still a far better alternative to renting. Shared ownership allows you to buy an initial share in one of our homes that you can afford. This means that you can get into home ownership in manageable stages.
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You pay a subsidised ‘rent’ on the remaining share that you haven’t initially bought; this means that your monthly outgoings will be affordable in relation to your income.
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• • • •
the property. In the future you can simply sell your share for its value at the time. Alternatively you can buy further shares in your home, until you own it outright.
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From £62,500*
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• • • •
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A selection of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom houses Off road parking Fitted kitchen & bathroom Reserving now / Available to view
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A selection of 1 & 2 bedroom homes Off road parking Fitted kitchen and bathroom Reserving now / Available to view
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* Prices correct at the time of publication, figures shown are for a 25% share. Monthly rent and service charge also payable.
bphaoptions.org.uk
Welcome
Spring 2015
Welcome to the spring issue of South Cambs Magazine
With a general election in May, as well as local elections for a third of our District Councillors on the same day, we are urging you to make sure you are registered to vote. On pages 32 and 33 there is lots of information on how to register, what to do if you’ve moved house and even details of how to stand for election too. We are pleased to tell you that over £50,000 has been added to our community chest grant scheme for the next financial year. On pages 8 and 9 we showcase some of the projects funding has helped recently and are reminding parish councils and community groups to begin to plan their next bids. With spring on the horizon there may be no better time to get out and about within the district. On page 15 we have details of a great scheme that lets you catch the bus and take your bike with you to explore and on pages 44-46 we have a packed sports section with lots of ways people of all ages can get involved with things going on locally. Please look out for more details about the Greater Cambridge City Deal in the next edition of South Cambs Magazine. You can visit www.greatercambridgecitydeal.co.uk for the latest updates at any time. Cllr Ray Manning Leader South Cambridgeshire District Council
Our Vision: South Cambridgeshire will continue to be the best place to live, work and study in the country. Our district will demonstrate impressive and sustainable economic growth. Our residents will have a superb quality of life in an exceptionally beautiful, rural and green environment.
The next issue of South Cambs Magazine will be delivered between 26 May and 13 June. For all delivery enquiries please contact The National Door to Door Company Ltd. on 01904 606300 or customerservice@teampdc.co.uk
For a large print copy please contact: South.CambsMagazine@scambs.gov.uk 03450 450 500 Spring 2015
Contents Contact Us .............................. 4 Community .............................. 6 Business .................................. 20 Sustainability ........................... 21 Competition ........................... 22 Waste & Recycling ................. 24 About your Council ................. 31 Planning .................................. 36 Environmental Health ............. 41 Housing ................................... 43 Sport ........................................ 44
South Cambs Magazine Letters should be directed to: Editor: Gareth Bell Editorial: Anna Efford and Kelly Quigley South Cambridgeshire District Council South Cambridgeshire Hall Cambourne Business Park, Cambourne Cambridge CB23 6EA e: South.CambsMagazine@scambs.gov.uk t: 03450 450 500 Design: Sean Gentle & Katie Rea
For all advertising enquiries please contact: Katrina Burrill KM Media & Marketing, County House, 9 Checkpoint Court, Sadler Road, Lincoln LN6 3PW e: info@km-media.co.uk t: 01522 513515 The opinions and views expressed in South Cambs Magazine are not necessarily those of South Cambridgeshire District Council or KM Media & Marketing. All data contained in advertisements, being subject to the Advertising Standards Authority guidelines, is accepted in good faith at the time of going to press. Printed on wood fibre from sustainable forests R
When you have finished with this magazine, please recycle it.
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3
Contact us
South Cambs Magazine
Contacting us The quickest and easiest way to contact us, and to apply, report or pay for something, is via our website:
www.scambs.gov.uk Social media: @SouthCambs
Email or
search ‘South Cambridgeshire’
call:
Benefits
benefits@scambs.gov.uk
03450 450 061
Building Control
building.control@scambs.gov.uk 03450 450 062
Elections
elections@scambs.gov.uk
03450 455 214
Environmental env.health@scambs.gov.uk Services
03450 450 063
For Housing Benefit fraud only Other fraud fraud@scambs.gov.uk
0800 854 440 0800 7311 892
Housing
housing@scambs.gov.uk
03450 450 051
Planning
planning@scambs.gov.uk
03450 455 215
Revenues
revenues@scambs.gov.uk
03450 450 064
For all other enquiries
scdc@scambs.gov.uk
03450 450 500
Visit or write: South Cambs District Council South Cambridgeshire Hall Cambourne Business Park Cambourne, Cambridge, CB23 6EA Office open Monday to Friday, 8am to 5.30pm
QR Code Scan this code with your smart phone to visit our website
4 www.scambs.gov.uk
To make a payment Visit www.scambs.gov.uk and click on the ‘Pay for it’ button. Call our automated payment line on 03450 455 218 You can also pay using a payment card at any Post Office or Pay Point outlet. To request a direct debit form or a Post Office payment card, call 03450 450 064
Putting service first If you phone us we will resolve your enquiry as quickly as possible provide voicemail if the person you need is unavailable answer your phone message within three working days If you write to us we will reply to your letter or email within 10 working days If we write to you we will write in plain language arrange for translation, large type, braille or audio tapes upon request If we visit you we will carry identification that you can check with a phone call to our contact service on 03450 450 500 arrive at the time we say we will, or give you as much notice as possible if we have to change the time If we get it wrong we will apologise if we have made a mistake or failed to meet our standards acknowledge your written complaint within three working days reply in full to your complaint within 10 working days
Tell us how we’re doing We’re proud of what we are trying to achieve and recognise we can always do better. To help improve our services, we need your feedback. Whether it’s a compliment, a general comment or a complaint, we want to hear from you. www.scambs.gov.uk/contact-us
Spring 2015
Community
South Cambs Magazine
A fairer way to save and borrow If you feel you are facing little more than mounting debts, then why not look to a credit union for fairer lending? Avoid payday lenders Payday loans may seem a quick and easy means of getting money but people can end up paying back many times the amount they borrow, with spiralling costs causing financial pain and misery.
Credit unions offer cheaper and fairer terms Credit unions are local financial cooperatives, owned and controlled by their members. They offer affordable and fair credit terms. There are about 500 credit unions in the UK helping more than a million members to manage their savings and borrowing, drawing people away from the clutches of payday lenders. Credit unions are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme so you can be sure your money is safe.
Rainbow Saver Anglia Credit Union (RACU) RACU operates in South Cambridgeshire and currently has over 4,000 members who save when they can and borrow when they need. RACU is based in Lowestoft and have plans to open a branch in Cambridge later this year. There are already access points in Histon, Sawston, Cherry Hinton and Cambridge.
Who can join RACU? Anyone aged 18 or over who lives or works in Cambridgeshire, Suffolk or Norfolk.
Why choose RACU? For fair treatment and access to services not necessarily available to you through the high street To keep your savings safe and away from temptation To be guaranteed acceptance for a Visa debit pay-as- you-go card that will only let you withdraw what you have loaded onto the card You can pay money in to your account using a PayPoint card at local shops
A Histon resident opens a new RACU account
There are no charges for depositing or withdrawing money Benefits and Local Housing Allowance can be processed through your account Tax credits can be paid into your credit union account After saving regularly for a period of time, small loans are available at reasonable rates of interest.
Citizens Advice Bureau If you are in serious, unmanageable debt that you cannot see a way of dealing with, seek advice as quickly as possible. Free, confidential help is available from your local Citizens Advice Bureau. For more information on RACU visit www.rainbowsaver.co.uk To get in touch with the Citizens Advice Bureau visit www.cambridgecab.org.uk or call 03448 487979
6 www.scambs.gov.uk
Spring 2015
gardendesignsolutions Garden Design & Build CAD Garden Designs, Planting Plans Garden Construction & Planting Plan your new garden now... ...build to enjoy this summer! Richard Arnott t: 01763 263231 • m: 07710547493 www.richardarnott.com • mail@richardarnott.com THINK GARDEN, THINK RICHARD!
Community
South Cambs Magazine
Pass go. Collect
Wheelie excited
Over Puddleducks pre-school put wheels in motion after receiving a cash boost of £1,400 towards new bikes and other outdoor play equipment.
The money helped to buy a range of all-ability bikes and scooters, a wendy house and a large outdoor easel, creating a stimulating environment for preschoolers to enjoy the benefits of outdoor play. Mandy Butt, Puddleducks Play Leader, said: “We were delighted to receive this grant. As a charityrun group we rely heavily on funding and donations in order to promote learning and provide the widest possible range of resources for all our children.”
From church halls and sports clubs to popular Community Chest grant fund is The original grant pot of £52,000 in 2014-15 was topped up with an extra £10,000. This boosted the amount shared out between voluntary and community sector groups, charities and parish councils for projects that improve the quality of village life. Cllr Ray Manning, Council Leader, said: “We’re always pleased to support local groups who work so hard delivering projects for their communities. We know that these grants make a real impact so are making a fresh batch of funding available from 1 April. It’s first-come first-served so encourage your community to get their applications in as soon as possible.” Applications for Community Chest grants open again on 1 April. The eligibility criteria and application form will be available on www.scambs.gov.uk/communitychest or by calling 03450 450 500
Take a seat
Young people in Willingham can relax at their new Youth Centre after a £1,500 grant went towards furniture for the venue. Opened in January, the centre includes a café style kitchen, TV and games consoles, table football and table tennis plus space for gaming, computer work or group activities. Chair of the Willingham Youth Trust, Reverend Linda Liversidge said: “This project has been an aspiration for a long time and we finally have the kind of youth facility this village deserves.”
Over Puddleducks pre-schoolers put new wheels in motion
8 www.scambs.gov.uk
Spring 2015
Community
South Cambs Magazine
up to £1,500 preschools and playgrounds, our making a big difference in your villages. Grant applications for up to £1,500 are welcomed for:
improvements to community facilities repairs to historic buildings, monuments or memorials tree and hedge planting schemes parish path schemes equipment and materials start-up costs
Time for tea
Fairytale project
Sleeping Beauty and Prince Edward fruit trees were centre stage in Oakington as local people gathered to double the size of their community orchard in December. A £1,000 grant helped Oakington Parish Council buy 36 more trees, including local varieties, to add to their collection of apple, pear, plum, gages and cherries. Cllr Mike Oakley, Oakington Parish Council chairman, said: “It was fantastic to see lots of villagers coming together to help plant these trees. In a few years they will have a chance to really enjoy the fruit of their labours.”
A visit by the Archdeacon of Cambridge saw the official opening of a new kitchen and disabled toilet at St Mary’s Church, Guilden Morden. The new facilities, installed in February, have been welcomed by the congregation, and were partly funded by a £1,500 grant. Canon Shamus Williams, rector of the Shingay Group of Parishes, said: “Making the church facilities fit for purpose without impinging on the historic nature of the building was a big job, but has been well worth it for the benefit of all our parishioners.”
Parishioners enjoying the new kitchen facilities at St Mary's Church, Guilden Morden
Spring 2015
Families from Oakington dug deep for the community project
www.scambs.gov.uk
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Community
South Cambs Magazine
Commemorating the fallen We've launched a new interactive map to honour over 2,300 service personnel from across South Cambridgeshire communities who fell fighting for their country during World Wars I and II.
Events mark the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II
This summer a number of events and activities will be taking place across the county to mark the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II.
Cottenham Street party 1945 Cambridgeshire County Council, alongside ourselves and other partners, plan to coordinate a number of events and activities under the title of The Home Front: Cambridgeshire Commemorates the end of WWII. This will all take place between May and September and will be an opportunity for Cambridgeshire residents to commemorate the wartime effort, learn and reminisce about the 'unforgettable forties' era and capture some of the celebratory mood of the time. Whether it be the researching and sharing of stories of the time, a lindy hop event with a WWII theme, raising morale through music or sport, a 'make do and mend' community craft project, creating a 'Dig For Victory' garden or decorating Along with Cambridge City Council, we your village with a forties are planning to commemorate the 70th theme, we are encouraging anniversary of VE and VJ Day in 2015. residents and groups to As part of the commemorations we design and deliver activities would like to invite veterans who fought in within their communities that the Far East to a remembrance event later motivate and encourage in the year. people to get involved. Please let us know if you would be We would love to hear interested in attending the event along about any plans so that with other veterans, or if you know Cabinet Shop; wing making for the war they can be included in the someone we should be contacting. effort c. 1940 - Papworth Everard programme. Contact Gemma Barron on gemma.barron@scambs.gov.uk You’ll be able to find out more and what’s taking place online at or 01954 713340 www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/ww2
Cambridgeshire Collection
The map plots each war memorial in the area so people can easily locate and visit places of interest and find out more about the districts’ wartime history. It shows the locations of war memorials in each parish with photos of them and gives further links so you can find out more about the fallen who are commemorated. The map also plots the individual graves of the 3,812 people from World War II buried at the Madingley American Cemetery and Memorial. Cllr David Whiteman-Downes, cabinet member for corporate and customer services, said: “Men and women who fight for their country are absolute heroes in the nation’s eyes and we are really pleased to be able to commemorate those from the district who fell during conflicts.” Visit www.scambs.gov.uk/content/war-memorials-archive to view the interactive map.
Spring 2015
www.scambs.gov.uk
11
Cambridgeshire Archives
Calling veterans
Sawston family helped by Family Link Service
Left to right: Link carers Barbara and Neil with Sharon, Jonathan and Jake
Cambridgeshire County Council’s Family Link Service is a short break service for families who have disabled children. The service links a family to carers who can help share the care of the child by welcoming them into their home. Jake is 8 and lives in Sawston. He has been visiting his Link carers Barbara and Neil for 4 years. They collect him on Sunday mornings, leaving his parents, Sharon and Jonathan, much needed time to relax and spend quality time with their other children. Sharon said, “I always sleep in bed with Jake because he has seizures through the night, so I often feel very tired. Jake is very strong willed and active, when he’s at home we have to keep all the doors and windows locked to keep him safe. To have just a few hours when I can switch off and spend time with our other kids or have chance to do the small things other people take for granted, like have a shower uninterrupted, makes a huge difference.” Neil and Barbara live round the corner. They have a wellestablished routine of activities which Jake enjoys each week. Neil explained, “we just do simple things like go for a walk to buy the paper then play football, teach Jake card games and make fresh orange juice. We also take Jake out for trips to nearby places like the Botanic Gardens in Cambridge where he loves having hot chocolate.” Sharon added, “Jake’s Link carers are a big part of his life, one week we were away so he wasn’t able to spend time with them and he reminded me that Sunday should be a Barbara and Neil day!” Neil and Barbara have been involved in the Family Link Service for many years and have built up a number of long-term, close relationships with disabled children and their families. They said “the role can have challenges which you have to consider before applying, especially if you are a Link carer while your own children are growing up. But friends who hear about our work and the difference it makes are often tempted to become Link carers themselves and we always encourage anyone who is interested to come forward and find out more.” Cambridgeshire County Council are currently looking for more people to become Link carers and are particularly keen to hear from anyone with experience working with children with disabilities. Carers are paid an allowance, take part in a comprehensive training programme and receive ongoing support.
For more information please call 0800 052 0078 or visit www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/fostering
CAMBRIDGE AND BEYOND COURSE FOR TOURIST GUIDES
Are you enthusiastic about Cambridge, its history, its people and its place in the world today? Do you enjoy interacting with people and sharing your knowledge? If so, then you are invited to apply to become a Registered Tourist Guide for Cambridge. Applications are invited for participation in a part-time course* running from September 2015 until June 2017. Upon successfully passing examinations set by the Institute of Tourist Guiding, candidates will qualify as Cambridge Green Badge Guides after one year and as Cambridge and Beyond Blue Badge Guides the following year. All guides work on a self-employed basis. Although prior knowledge of the area is useful, it is not essential. Preference will be given to those candidates offering a second language. For further information Email: john.milne@cambridge.gov.uk Tourist Information Centre, Peas Hill Cambridge CB2 3AD *Fees apply
Community
South Cambs Magazine
Parklife 2015
Our free family fun day at Milton Country Park is back by popular demand and will take place on Sunday 19 July.
Organised in partnership with Cambridge Sport Lakes Trust, Parklife is our biggest event of the year, attracting thousands of people from across South Cambridgeshire. Parklife gives visitors the opportunity to try numerous sports, helping to inspire more people to get active and improve their health and wellbeing. Visitors can try fishing, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding as well as climbing, archery and cycling for all ages and abilities, including a fold-up bike race provided by our Cycling Zone sponsor Ben Hayward Cycles. Exclusive to this year’s event, and with the Rugby World Cup in England this year, why not have a go in our rugby skills area?. Young people can also get involved with craft activities lead by stART or den building in The Wild Place. Stalls, live music and entertainment also feature at the fun-filled event.
SMART
STUDENTS Whether you’re a talented performer wanting to take to the stage or a local business keen to raise your profile, we want to hear from you. We have opportunities for entertainers, stallholders and sponsors.
GO TO MILLERS
For more information, visit www.scambs.gov.uk/parklife or contact Clare Gibbons on clare.gibbons@scambs.gov.uk or 03450 450 500
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South Cambs Magazine
South Cambs in springtime
Community The BikeBus Explorer is kitted out to carry passengers and their bikes
Spring is a brilliant time to explore the outdoors as the natural world bursts into life, and there is no better way to get out and about than on the BikeBus Explorer.
Es tat e
ay le yW ood s
Walkers, cyclists and the outdoor adventurer lurking in all of us can reach the hidden corners of the district thanks to our unique bus service kitted out to carry bikes. So whether you care to explore on foot or two wheels, the BikeBus can take you within easy reach. From Coton Countryside Reserve to the newly created Millbridge Brook Meadows in Gamlingay, there are a host of interesting wildlife sites within reach of the BikeBus route. Impressive displays of snowdrops, celandines, daffodils and narcissi can be found at Wimpole Estate and, later in spring, spectacular carpets of bluebells at Hayley Woods, which lie between Little Gransden and Longstowe. Waresley and Gransden Woods are also a joy to behold. A recent BikeBus passenger said: “For those without a car and with limited public transport service on Sundays, the BikeBus is a great means of getting around and exploring places further away that you can’t otherwise get to.” Travelling between Cambridge railway station and Gamlingay four times a day on Sundays and bank holidays, the BikeBus takes a circular route passing through the villages of Barton, Orwell, Wimpole, Arrington, Croydon, the Hatleys, Gamlingay, Waresely, Great Gransden, Little Gransden and Longstowe. It also takes a welcome detour to the National Trust’s Wimpole Estate. For those living in these villages, the BikeBus provides a Sunday bus service to Cambridge where there was none previously, and concessionary passes are valid as for any other public bus service. There is a small surcharge to travel with a bike. H More information about fares and timetables can be found at www.scambs.gov.uk/bikebus-explorer where you can find maps with cycling and walking trails and suggestions for things to see and do in the villages along the way.
e
ol mp i W
Spring 2015
www.scambs.gov.uk
15
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Community
South Cambs Magazine
Community Transport Your 2015 guide to local transport options in South Cambridgeshire is now out and widely available from parish councils, libraries and GP surgeries. It can also be downloaded from our website. South Cambridgeshire residents have a variety of options for travel, including Community Transport. The sort of flexible services they offer are now becoming mainstream. Huntingdonshire Association of Community Transport (HACT) now provides a demand responsive service to residents in Caxton, Croxton, Croydon, Eltisley, Longstowe, Abbotsley, Waresley, Gamlingay, Little Gransden, Great Gransden, Arrington, Orwell, Wimpole, Great Eversden, Little Eversden, East Hatley and Hatley St George allowing journeys, for example, to Cambourne or St Neots. This service is becoming increasingly popular as passengers get into the swing of booking their journeys by 1pm the day before travel by calling 01480 411 114. Demand is rising for more door to door services and we have recently awarded additional grant funding to the Voluntary Network and 3CT to extend their services in the south east of the district and to enable Care Network to continue its work supporting community car schemes. Car schemes rely on volunteer drivers and are always on the look out for willing hands to help others get out and about. If you think you can help, contact Jane Johannesen at Care Network on 01954 211 919.
Cambridgeshire Celebrates Age Cambridgeshire Celebrates Age (CCA) is a partnership between local councils, the NHS, voluntary agencies, housing associations and community groups, who work together to promote wellbeing and improve the quality of life of older people. It achieves this by producing an annual programme of local activities and events, run by a range of organisations, that:
promote active living help reduce social isolation reach out to the most vulnerable promote intergenerational work between older and younger people challenge ageism show and value what older people do, contribute and achieve.
The programme of events for 2015 is now available and pulls together events and activities for older people throughout the year. These give people the opportunity to find out what’s happening where they live. Cllr Sue Ellington with Diana Minns, co-founder of CCA, and Mayor of Cambridge Gerri Bird
Spring 2015
The programme is available online at www.scambs.gov.uk/content/cambridgeshire-celebrates-age A printed leaflet can be requested by calling 03450 450 500
www.scambs.gov.uk
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Community
South Cambs Magazine
Tackling anti-social behaviour Living near people who have barking dogs, continually shout and swear or always play loud music can make life miserable. That's why we're using new legislation to stop people whose anti-social behaviour (ASB) makes life difficult for their neighbours.
Since new powers came in during October last year, we have served four final warning letters and two Community Protection Notices, working closely with Cambridgeshire Police to identify, investigate and take action to stop ASB. We fully investigate any complaints, normally sharing intelligence and evidence with the police, before we make an independent judgement. We work with residents to help them understand why their behaviour is unacceptable, but if the ASB persists, we can issue a Community Protection Notice, breach of which can lead to a £100 penalty or prosecution and a criminal record. From March this year, housing associations will also be able to serve the notices to tenants who are being antisocial. They will work with us and the Police to do this. If you have an issue with ASB you can contact us at duty.h&es@scambs.gov.uk or on 03450 450 063. If it is a more urgent matter, or you feel under threat, call the Police on 101
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Get ready for the domestic RHI
What is the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (dRHI)?
The domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (dRHI) is a government financial incentive, designed to encourage people to make the switch to renewable heating systems in their homes. For example, homeowners and landlords could be eligible to receive an income of about £2,000-£6,000 when fitting an air-to-water heat pump, depending on the size of their property and the type of heating system installed. The domestic RHI offers quarterly payments over seven years, based on a set of tariffs and according to the type of system installed, which help to offset the cost of installing renewable heating systems.
is taken from your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), although its design efficiency (seasonal performance factor) is also used to calculate payments. For solar thermal, the figure is taken from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certificate, which is based on a calculation by your MCS installer. For some households, metering may be required and the payments will be based on regular meter readings.
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domestic RHI. Please visit www.daikin.co.uk/ rhi/rhi-estimator-tool for details.
Elliotts – Your local specialist heat pump installer
Daikin UK’s RHI Ready Renewable Heating Solutions Daikin UK has a range of RHI-ready renewable heating systems. All Daikin Altherma air-to-water heat pumps and solar thermal systems are MCS accredited. You can choose from highefficiency Low Temperature Split, Low Temperature Monobloc, Hybrid, High Temperature Split (max 50°C space heating design flow temperature) and Solar Thermal DHW systems, to get the most efficient solution for your home.
•
•
• • • • •
Daikin specialist heating partner Fully working renewable energy centre in Bar Hill Ground and air source heat pumps Air conditioning Underfloor heating Full plumbing and electrical services Free estimates
Elliotts Unit 44 Viking Way Bar Hill Cambridge CB23 8EL 01954 202 020 0781 089 7715 email: sales@tcrec.co.uk www.tcrec.co.uk
RHI tariffs
The tariff levels are 7.3 p/kWh for air-to-water heat pumps and 19.2 p/kWh for solar thermal. The tariffs have been set at a level that reflects the expected cost of renewable heat generation over the system’s lifetime. Tariffs will be subject to review every quarter.
Estimating RHI payments
Payments are usually based on the heating system’s estimated annual heat output and made on the portion of renewable energy generated. For heat pumps, this figure
*Please refer to the Homeowner Guide on www.daikin.co.uk/rhi for further details on the technical assumptions
Business
South Cambs Magazine
Support for businesses Our latest series of fully-funded workshops and webinars to support businesses is underway.
Places are still available to book with sessions going on until late April. The half-day workshops and webinars have been designed to help those running or thinking of starting a business in South Cambridgeshire. They cover a range of subjects focusing on the specific needs of local businesses, including business planning, gaining new customers, as well as doing business online and via social media. All workshop attendees are also eligible to receive free business support from experienced business advisers via phone, email or Skype. The follow up advice is available at no extra cost and will help attendees implement what they have gained from the workshop into developing their business. The webinars and workshops are being delivered by Exemplas - a leading business employment, skills and support solutions provider. This is the fourth series of workshops delivered as part of our Business Support Service, continuing our commitment to support local businesses. The previous workshops were extremely successful and supported a range of local businesses and start-ups. Attendees described the workshops as “a valuable opportunity for any potential businesses” and a “fantastic opportunity to learn”, with “really good quality venues and speakers”. For details of all the workshops and to book a place call Exemplas on 0844 346 0755 (Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.30pm) or email southcambsbusinesssupport@exemplas.com
What can you do with faster broadband?
More than 17,000 South Cambs homes and businesses will be able to upgrade to faster fibre broadband by the end of March this year. Faster Internet access means more people can work from home, shop, socialise and find services online - saving travel, time and money. Connecting Cambridgeshire is bringing better connections to areas that would not get it otherwise, but it’s up to you to find the best broadband package for your needs. Here’s how you can get faster fibre in three quick steps: 1. Find out if your area is connected - visit the ‘my area’ pages at www.connectingcambridgeshire.co.uk 2. Check your current broadband contract - see if you can switch or upgrade to a fibre package 3. Shop around for the best deal - compare packages and offers to see what’s best for you Businesses can still apply for connection vouchers up to £3,000 to install superfast broadband to their offices. Companies at Valley Court Offices, Croydon (pictured) pooled their connection vouchers to bring faster broadband to the business park. Landlord, James Brown, said: "it will be easier for us to attract new tenants with higher speeds and give us the edge on competitors." Visit www.destinationdigital.info before the end of March
20 www.scambs.gov.uk
Spring 2015
South Cambs Magazine
Sustainability
See and feel the benefits of an insulated home Residents are being given the chance to see and feel for themselves the effects of vastly improved insulation on solid wall homes. Solid wall homes without cavity insulation are notoriously difficult to insulate, but the problem can be resolved by bolting on insulation to the outside of the house and rendering over it. A property in Whittlesford has been transformed and the owner is opening her doors to let people see the positive effect it has had. The owner, Joan Pidgeon, said: “It was really easy to get the work done and for the first time since we bought the house the bathroom is actually warm in the morning. Amazing!” Visits to Joan’s home are being organised to help people see how similar action on their own homes could keep them warm and cosy as well as save them money. Up to £6,000 of government funding per property is available for homeowners who want to make the change, but only for a limited time. To be eligible for funding, work must be carried out through our energy efficiency scheme, Action on Energy, or through another Green Deal Provider registered with the scheme. To visit the show home contact Siobhan Mellon on siobhan.mellon@scambs.gov.uk or call 01954 713395. For details of Action on Energy, the energy efficiency scheme backed by us, visit www.actiononenergy.net or call 0800 093 3303
Insulation is bolted to the house (above) before being rendered over (below)
Competition
South Cambs Magazine
Win a champagne punting tour experience Spring is in the air and the crocuses along the Cambridge College Backs are bursting into bloom.
We’re offering one lucky reader the chance to enjoy this world famous view on a luxurious Champagne punting tour for up to eight people, worth £200, courtesy of Scudamore’s Punting Company. Indulge yourself on this deluxe 60 minute award winning tour experience and hear about the fascinating background to modern-day Cambridge whilst enjoying two glasses of chilled bubbly per person. Scudamore’s and punting are globally recognised as synonymous with Cambridge. Punting is the number one activity in the city with a choice between do-it-yourself boat hire experiences and award-winning punting tours, all leaving from Scudamore’s Mill Lane Punting Station, Cambridge, CB2 1RS Visit www.scudamores.com or call their booking line on 01223 359750. To be in with a chance of winning visit www.scambs.gov.uk click on ‘Apply for it’ then select ‘Readers’ Competition’ to complete the entry form. Closing date for entries is midday on Wednesday 3 April
Answer this question to be in with a chance of winning: To be able to vote in the elections on 7 May, what date must you be on the electoral register by (See page 32 for a clue). a) 20 April b) 7 May c) You don't need to register Don’t have internet access? You can also enter by post. Send your name, address and telephone number, plus your answer to the question, to: Scudamore’s Punting Competition South Cambs Magazine South Cambridgeshire District Council Cambourne Business Park Cambourne Cambridgeshire, CB23 6EA Terms and conditions are available at www.scambs.gov.uk/t-c or can be requested by calling 03450 450 500. Winners will be notified by Friday 17 April and announced in the summer edition of South Cambs Magazine.
22 www.scambs.gov.uk
Winner’s spotlight It’s been an energetic start to 2015 for Keri Easy of Cottenham who won the year’s free gym membership in our winter competition. We asked readers how much the weekly charge was for our new Lifeline+ service - helping people stay independent and in their own homes for longer - and Keri correctly answered from £4.34 to £6.70. Keri is now a proud member of Prime Time Fitness in Girton where she is benefitting from a personal fitness programme and range of exercise classes. Thrilled to win the competition, Keri said: “I was over the moon to hear that my name had been drawn from all the entries. I never win anything so it was very welcome news, and a great start to 2015. I look forward to an active year ahead!”
Spring 2015
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Waste Waste&&Recycling Recycling
South Cambs Magazine
Collection dates Green & blue bins
Black bin
We recommend bins are put out the night before, but they must be out by 6am at the latest on your collection day
Later collection
April
March
Monday A - Babraham, Balsham, Gt Abington, Gt Shelford, Harston, Hauxton, Hildersham, Hinxton, Ickleton, Lt Abington, Lt Shelford, Pampisford, Stapleford
2
9
16 23 30
7
May
13 20 27
Tue
2
Horseheath, Linton, Sawston, Shudy Camps
9
16 23 30
7
May
13 20 27
3
Wednesday A - Bar Hill, Childerley,
Chittering, Dry Drayton, Knapwell, Landbeach, Longstanton, Swavesey, Waterbeach
Thursday A - Cambourne, Comberton, Croxton, Eltisley, Graveley, Hardwick, Papworth Everard, Papworth St Agnes, Toft Thursday B - Abington Pigotts, Arrington, Bassingbourn, Bourn, Croydon, Gamlingay, Guilden Morden, Hatley, Litlington, Longstowe, Lt Gransden, Shingay-cum-Wendy, Steeple Morden, Tadlow Friday A - Barton, Foxton, Grantchester, Gt Eversden, Harlton, Haslingfield, Kingston, Lt Eversden, Newton, Orwell, Shepreth, Thriplow & Heathfield, Whittlesford, Whaddon, Wimpole Friday B - Barrington, Caldecote, Duxford,
Fowlmere, Gt Chishill, Heydon, Lt Chishill, Melbourn, Meldreth
24 ď Ž www.scambs.gov.uk
8
3
8
14 21 28
11 18 25
1
9
15 22 29
11 18 25
1
9
15 22 29
5
12 19 26
2
12 19 26
10 16 23 30
8 Fri
April 2
6
13 20 27
10 16 23 30
8
Fri
Fri
4
11 17 24
1
6
13 20 27
9
4
11 17 24
Sat Sat
3
9 Sat
10 17 24 June
13 20 28
July 1
3
10 17 24
July 1
Thur
June
14 21 29
4
11 18 25
July 2
Fri
June
14 21 29
4
11 18 25
July 2
Fri
June
15 22 30
5
12 19 26
July 3
Sat
May 1
16 23 30
Thur
Sat
April
March
13 20 28
May
Sat Sat
9
June
May
April
March
2
May
Fri
16 23 30
Wed
Thur
April
March 5
7
9
June
May
Thur
March
2
12 19 27
Thur
April
March 4
6
7
15 22 29
Wed
May
Thur
8
June
12 19 27
Wed
April
March
1
May
Wed
4
6 Wed
April
10 17 24 31
15 22 29
Tue
May
14 21 28
March
Wednesday B - Boxworth, Caxton,
Conington, Cottenham, Elsworth, Fen Drayton, Lolworth, Over, Rampton, Willingham
10 17 24 31
8
June
11 18 26
April Wed
Tuesday B - Fen Ditton, Fulbourn/Cherry Hinton (South of the railway), Girton, Milton, Oakington, Stow-cum-Quy, Westwick
5 Tue
March
1
Tue
April Tue
Tuesday A - Carlton, Coton, Gt Wilbraham, Histon, Horningsea, Impington, Lt Wilbraham, Madingley, Orchard Park, Six Mile Bottom, Teversham/Cherry Hinton (North of the railway), West Wickham, West Wratting, Weston Colville
11 18 26
Tue
March
Monday B - Bartlow, Castle Camps,
5
June
June
15 22 30
5
12 19 26
July 3
Sat
Spring 2015
Waste & Recycling
South Cambs Magazine
What goes where? Blue bin
We recommend bins are put out the night before, but they must be out by 6am at the latest on your collection day Close lids firmly
Extra blue bin material will be collected if left alongside your blue bin in a returnable container
Paper Caddy Put the caddy inside or beside your blue bin
Plastic bottles
Plastic bottle tops & triggers
Plastic packaging (pots, trays & tubs)
Paper
Plastic bags
Plastic film & clean food wrapping
Cartons (e.g Tetrapack)
Food & drinks cans
Aerosols
Tinfoil & foil trays
Cardboard/ Wrapping paper
Polystyrene Pyrex, flat glass, non packaging plastic e.g toys, bowls
Glass jars & bottles
Put items loosely in your blue bin and not in carrier bags
Batteries Batteries inc. AA & AAA cells, button batteries, size C & D and any laptop & mobile battery
Rinse items to remove any food contamination
Put in a battery bag or clear plastic bag and attach it to your blue bin lid
Green bin
Junk mail
Garden waste
Newspapers & magazines
Catalogues
Cooked/uncooked food waste (meat, fish & dairy)
Telephone directories
Envelopes (with or without windows)
Kitchen paper and tissues
Jiffy bags, wrapping paper, greeting cards, tissue, cardboard & kitchen paper
Any type of cat litter. Turf and soil - due to its weight. Any type of plastic including bags/sacks
Shredded paper*
Biodegradable bags (cornstarch, potato starch) Corrugated cardboard - put in the blue bin Cardboard - put in the blue bin
* Put shredded paper in an old envelope before putting in the paper only caddy
Extra green bin material cannot be collected. Please compost it or take it to Milton or Thriplow Recycling Centres
Black bin Non-recyclable / non-compostable material
Please use your black bin for material that cannot be put in green or blue bins Extra black bin material cannot be collected. Please take it to Milton or Thriplow Recycling Centres Nappies should be put in the black bin Empty and full paint tins cannot be collected. Please take them to Milton or Thriplow Recycling Centres
For more information visit www.scambs.gov.uk/bins or call 03450 450 063 Spring 2015
TEA OUT R ME & ME T STICK O YO UR FRID GE
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25
Free clean with all new orders Your bin(s) beautifully cleaned, disinfected and deodorised every 4 weeks. Nothing to pay until your bin has been cleaned for the first time.
Tel: 01223 277747 Book online at www.wheeliefreshbins.com
Architectural Services Planning & Building Regulation Drawings Project Management Building Surveying We are a Chartered Building Consultancy providing professional services and construction advice on Extensions, Alterations, Refurbishment and New Build projects.
Design - Development - Management Regent House, 133 Station Road, Impington, Cambridge.
Tel: 01223 233 600
www.westridgeconsultants.co.uk
Working together with local businesses We work with organisations of all sizes and sectors across Cambridgeshire to design waste solutions that are tailored to our customers’ needs. Every opportunity is explored to with our cost effective waste and recycling services.
The services we provide: • Waste treatment and recycling • Trade waste collection services • Skip and bin hire • Roll-on/roll-off containers • Bespoke collection systems
Tel: 01223 861010 www.ameycespa.com
Waste and Recycling
South Cambs Magazine
Going green this spring Spring is here, and as plants wake up from their winter rest, the list of garden jobs begins to grow too! Remember, help is at hand with your green bin nearby to deal with your plant clippings, weeds and grass cuttings.
From Monday 2 March green bins will be collected every fortnight. Green bin collection crews will be working longer days throughout the spring and summer when there is more garden waste to collect. On some days they may be collecting bins up until 5pm so please remember to leave your bin out until we have been to collect it.
Food Waste
Did you know?
ade from prover, m im il n o s e Fre om gree collect fr e w r t a a e h y w all vailable bins, is a eyCespa m A e om th fr d n u ro nt Park in anageme is a Waste M you need ll A . h c a Waterbe shovel! bag and
The green bin is not just a great way to deal with your garden waste but an easy way to recycle food waste. All food waste can be put into the green bin, including uncooked and cooked meat, plate scrapings and vegetable peelings. When some of our residents told us they didn't like to recycle food waste because it was difficult to sort in the kitchen and then take to the green bin, we offered free kitchen caddies for food waste. Kitchen caddies are available to collect from our South Cambridgeshire Hall offices on Cambourne Business Park - but be quick as supplies You can benefit from are limited. your hard work in Whilst it is fine to put food the garden by home waste into the kitchen caddy, some residents would prefer composting. to use liners. Any plastic bags It is an inexpensive, natural or plastic-type liners are not process that transforms your compostable in our process, this garden waste and uncooked fruit includes potato and cornstarch bags, or anything that is labelled and vegetables into a valuable as biodegradable plastic. These do not compost down quickly and nutrient rich food for your enough in our process. However, 100% paper liners can be used garden. It's easy to make and use. in the green bin. To support you with home The good news is that paper liners do breakdown during the composting we have teamed up composting process and can be used in the green bin. Paper with getcomposting.com to bring liners can be collected from our Cambourne office in packs of 50 you offers on home composting for ÂŁ4.10 or bought from www.alina.co.uk/southcambridgeshire bins and other composting and delivered to your home. products. Compost bins can be Please visit page 24 to view the bin collection schedule for orderd by visiting your village. For a full list of what goes in the green bin please www.cambs.getcomposting.com turn to page 25
Considered composting?
Spring 2015
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South Cambs Magazine
Waste and Recycling
Help shape environmental services We want your views on how we are performing across the full range of environmental services. We ask you for feedback each year about services like bin collections, street cleansing and graffiti removal. Last year over 800 residents took part in a postal survey. The survey results showed that: 92% of respondents were satisfied with the waste and recycling collection service 87% were satisfied with the quality of the environment in South Cambridgeshire. This year we hope even more residents will take part to make sure we are still on the right track. We are making it easy for you to get involved by making the survey available online. You can take part by: Visiting www.scambs.gov.uk/EnvServSurvey and answering a few quick questions Calling 01954 713 258 to have a paper survey sent to you The results of this survey will inform an ongoing review of recent changes to our waste and recycling collection services. We really value your feedback and would like to thank everyone in advance for their help and support.
Innovators in Water-based Technology WWW.BEDEC.CO.UK
EMAIL: PAINT@BEDEC.CO.UK
TEL:01279 876657
Private Landlords the King Street Housing Society Private Leasing Scheme offers hassle-free lettings, guaranteed income and peace of mind.
We offer: • Guaranteed rent payments - no rent arrears • Guaranteed rent when the property is empty no ‘rent free’ periods • No fees • Comprehensive management we take care of everything We are currently looking for 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes in the South Cambridgeshire, East Cambridgeshire, Huntingdonshire, Cambridge City and Newmarket areas. For an information pack please contact Deena Coulson on 01223 459737 Email: deena.coulson@kingstreeths.org.uk No hidden extras, guaranteed. King Street Housing: 23 years’ experience in private leasing
business for neighbourhoods
About your Council
South Cambs Magazine
Understand your council tax bill In the next few weeks we'll be sending out annual bills for Council Tax, Business Rates and Council Rents.
The answers to most of the queries we get about bills can be found on the bill itself.
This is the address of the property the bill relates to and can be different to the postal address if you own more than one home
When you add benefit award letters for the next financial year, we will be sending out around 80,000 documents. With so many people being written to at one time there is always a peak in demand for our contact centre. In previous years we have received up to 1,600 calls a day and, while we aim to answer all calls as soon as Your bill will show the possible, during amount we collect on these busy times behalf of all the authorities. there can be a delay. Our part of the bill is only a A large number small proportion of calls to us are very similar, with the information needed often on the bill. If you have a question, please read the bill and booklet we send to you first as this is Direct debit payers do not likely to answer it. need to do anything as the The bills cover the payments will continue to be charges due and collected benefits awarded, and the booklet provides general information on our Your bill will include a services and further breakdown of your payments details on Council throughout the year Tax, Business Rates, discounts and exemptions.
Ways of getting in touch To make sure you do not need to wait unnecessarily, we have other ways for you to get in touch. Firstly, visit our website www.scambs.gov.uk/services/council-tax which has more detailed information and easy to use forms that will help you to provide us with all relevant information to answer your enquiry. You can also email us at revenues@scambs.gov.uk with any queries. The booklet we send you with the bill includes these details, and they can be found on page 4 of this magazine.
Take the hassle free option At the moment around 70% of people take the hassle free option and pay their bill by direct debit. You can sign up online by visiting www.scambs.gov.uk/content/ways-pay-your-council-tax. If you can’t pay in this way, you can use our website to make payments by debit or credit card or call our 24 hour payment line on 03450 455 218.
Spring 2015
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About your Council
South Cambs Magazine
Parliamentary and Local On 7 May, South Cambridgeshire residents will head out to vote for MPs in two parliamentary constituencies - South Cambridgeshire and South East Cambridgeshire - in the first General Election since 2010. In addition to electing an MP, some local residents will also vote in district and parish council elections. To be able to vote, you must be on the electoral register by 20 April.
Are you registered to vote? 2014 saw the biggest change in how we register to vote for 100 years. The old system, which allowed residents to register by household, was scrapped for a new system where each individual registers themselves. Most residents automatically moved to the new system but a small number had to reapply. We’re pleased that so many residents did just that, securing their ability to vote. If you’re not sure you’re registered to vote, email elections@scambs.gov.uk or call 03450 455214 as soon as possible, and we’ll check for you.
Young people take to the polls
Register to vote at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
Recently moved? If you’ve moved house in the last few months, you may need to register under the new system. Remember, if you aren’t on the register, you cannot vote. Registering at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote takes five minutes; you just need your National Insurance number to hand. The deadline to register is Monday 20 April, but don’t leave it to the last minute, as any problems with your application could leave you without a vote. If you can’t get online, have your National Insurance number ready and call us on 03450 455214 to register over the phone.
Where’s my NI number?
If you have moved house recently you may need to register under the new system
If you work, you’ll find your National Insurance number on your payslip, P60 or tax return. If you’ve lost or can’t remember your number, call HMRC on 0300 200 3502 and they’ll post it to you. HMRC won’t confirm your number over the phone, so call them as soon as possible to avoid missing the 20 April registration deadline.
Interested in standing as a councillor or MP? If you’re interested in standing in parliamentary or local elections, our elections team is happy to give you advice on how to go about it. Email elections@scambs.gov.uk or call 03450 455214 as soon as possible. Don’t delay, as the deadline for submitting a nomination to stand for election this May is 9 April. There is a £500 deposit to stand for Parliament, which is returned if a candidate secures 5% of the votes cast. There is no deposit required to stand for local district or parish elections.
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www.scambs.gov.uk
Spring 2015
About your Council
South Cambs Magazine
Elections 2015 Away on 7 May? Being away doesn’t mean you need to lose your vote. You can apply now to vote by post by printing an application form from www.scambs.gov.uk/postal Applications must be submitted before Tuesday 21 April. Postal votes are sent out approximately ten working days before an election. If a postal vote isn’t suitable, you can apply for a proxy vote for 7 May: nominating someone else to vote for you at your designated polling station. Applications should be made at least six working days before the election. You can download an application form from www.scambs.gov.uk/elections or call 03450 455214.
Lolworth polling station
Lights, camera, vote!
Our youth councillors are shooting a ‘how to’ elections video, showing what goes on inside a polling station and how to cast your vote. You will soon be able to watch the video on their Facebook page - search for ‘South Cambridgeshire Youth Council’. Louis Pascuzzi, Youth Council chairman, said: “We’d love to hear what you think about our video and what you’d like to see us covering next. Get in touch and we’ll see what we can do.” You can leave comments for the Youth Council on Facebook, or email youthcouncil@scambs.gov.uk
District Council elections will be held in: Balsham Bar Hill Barton Bourn Comberton Cottenham
Duxford Fowlmere & Foxton Fulbourn Hardwick Histon and Impington
Milton Orwell and Barrington Papworth & Elsworth Sawston
Teversham The Abingtons The Shelfords & Stapleford Willingham & Over
Parish Council elections will be confirmed closer to 7 May. See www.scambs.gov.uk/elections for more information
Spring 2015
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33
About your Council
Meeting the funding reduction challenge
Once again our grant funding is being cut by government - this year by around 30% - presenting a big challenge. We’ve already taken £5.5 million out of our budget over the last four years. Where possible, we’ve tried to reduce the impact on you. On 27 February councillors will consider a corporate plan and budget which would absorb most of the new savings needed through further efficiencies. Some of the ways we are looking to find savings next year is through more shared services - joining the City Council to collect waste and Huntingdonshire and City to deliver ICT and legal services. However, more than ever before we are also trying to generate our own income. We’ve created a new company, Ermine Street Housing, to play a large part in this. So far we have invested £4.5 million buying 25 properties that are now being rented out at market rates. This delivers an annual return that will be reinvested straight back into the services you want and need. Over the next five years we’d like to see Ermine Street Housing grow to provide more money to support other services. The £670,000 savings we plan to make next year as an authority equate to £11.23 for an average band D home. To balance the books we are proposing an increase in council tax of £2.45 per band D home, that is 1.99%.
South Cambs Magazine Reductions to our government funding will mean we need to make more savings next year
About your Council
South Cambs Magazine
Do it online
Online forms are making it easier to contact us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Did you know it is easier than ever before to pay for it, report it or apply for our services online? Hundreds of residents are already finding it quicker and easier to go online and use the forms to get those little jobs done 24 hours a day, seven days a week. More online forms are being introduced all the time as the variety of tasks you can do at a click of a button grows. Some of the most popular forms include one to tell us when you are moving so that your council tax details are updated, our grant application form and even the one to enter the quarterly South Cambridge Magazine residents’ competition (don’t miss out this time, see page 22). We have also recently added a form to the website to report a missed bin collection. We collect bins from 63,000 homes, but on the occasions we get it wrong, we want it to be hassle free to report so we can arrange a recollection. By using the online forms, your request is processed more quickly and still dealt with by the same person who would pick up the phone if you called. To use the forms visit www.scambs .gov.uk and click on the pay for it, report it or apply for it buttons
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Planning
South Cambs Magazine
Latest on the Local Plan
Laura Graham, the inspector who is carrying out the examination on our district Local Plan, has now considered a number of important issues about how this area should be developed up to 2031. These included discussions in November on future housing and jobs needs and the overall development strategy for the Cambridge and South Cambridgeshire area. The latest hearings in February, which were also held jointly with Cambridge City Council, were about the Green Belt and transport - key issues for how the Greater Cambridge area will look in the future. Cllr Robert Turner, cabinet member for planning, said: “We are committed to ensuring that South Cambridgeshire continues to be an excellent place to live, work and study. We are working closely with the City Council to get the right balance between continuing our economic success story and protecting what is special about Cambridge and our rural district.” In March there will be hearings about housing land supply and how we can ensure new homes continue to be built in our district until 2031. There is still lots more for the Inspector to examine and updates to the programme from her will be published on our website as they become available. You are welcome to come along to listen to these discussions. Look on our website for more details of the timetable and who is taking part in the debates at www.scambs.gov.uk/local-plan-examination
New community forum set up for Northstowe
A new forum has been set up to keep people up to date and involve them in the future of the planned new town of Northstowe. The first meeting of the new forum was held at the end of January where the developers of the first new homes and facilities to be built at Northstowe gave a presentation on the construction programme. They also adviced that, this spring, work will start on the B1050 between Longstanton and Willingham for 40 weeks. For more information on this, and advanced warning of any nightime closures, will be announced on www.northstowe.com The event also included the opportunity to ask developers questions as well as feedback from us on the outline planning application consultations for the second phase of the town. Anyone interested in Northstowe is encouraged to attend the future forums at Longstanton Village Institute Hall. They are all between 7pm to 9pm on the following dates:
Wednesday 22 April
Wednesday 15 July
Wednesday 7 October
If there are any topics you would like to be covered at a future Northstowe Community Forum please contact Hilary Cox on hilary.cox@scambs.gov.uk
Other forums
Regular community forums are also held for major development sites on the edge of Cambridge. These are organised by Cambridge City Council. For the latest dates and information please visit www.cambridge.gov.uk and search community forum.
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Enjoy a
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Planning
South Cambs Magazine
Could you build your own home? We’re making it easier than ever before for people to realise their dream of designing and building their own homes.
Our new scheme could lay the foundations to building your dream home
Are you ready to take on the challenge? Or do you have available land you want us to consider? If the answer is yes to either of these questions, sign up to Right to Build now by visiting www.scambs.gov.uk and selecting the ‘Apply for it’ button. There is a quick and easy form to fill in. The scheme is not just for people with grand plans but we aim to open up the opportunity to people with modest budgets as well. We will support people thinking about building their own home from scratch and those looking to work with a developer to custom build a property to suit their needs. We are aiming to have our first 50 plots available in the next six months and these will be offered through a range of options such as: Working with a developer to self finish the basic shell of a property Working with a developer to build on a site they own Working as a group on a collective build Building on a plot on your own Co-Housing We will be arranging a workshop later this spring to bring everyone together who is interested. Plots can only be offered in areas where land becomes available. This new scheme and register does not change the planning application process. For more information please visit www.scambs.gov.uk/right-to-build-scheme and complete the online form. If you do not have internet access you can also call Amelia Davies on 01954 713181
Lifetime Homes At least 50% of the new homes at the North West Cambridge development will be designed to easily adapt to the changing needs of residents over the years.
To raise awareness of inclusive design, we organised a ‘Building for Life’ workshop alongside Future East to gather the views of older residents on Lifetime Homes. This made more people aware that they are available and how we are ensuring that new homes, public spaces and facilities accommodate the needs of all users.
Lifetime Homes include: Accessible entrance level toilet (opportunity for shower later in three bed or larger homes) Space for future platform lift
Low window sills Parking space capable of widening to 3300mm Living or family space at entrance level Walls able to take adaptation Accessible front door covered and lit Turning circles for wheelchair in ground floor living rooms Distance from car parking space kept to a minimum Identified space for temporary bed at entrance level
For more information on Lifetime homes visit www.lifetimehomes.org.uk and www.nwcambridge.co.uk, or contact Bonnie Kwok on bonnie.kwok@scambs.gov.uk or 01954 713167
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South Cambs Magazine
Environmental health
Springtime down on the farm In South Cambridgeshire we’re very lucky to have a number of working farms that open their doors to the public. They’re a great way of introducing children to farm life and allows them to get up close to animals, but contact with cute animals can also mean contact with some ugly bugs.
As more families take to the countryside this spring, we’re reminding people about the importance of hygiene. Farms and farm animals can carry germs that can be harmful to young children, unborn babies and people with weakened immune systems. By taking a few common sense steps, you can be sure to safely enjoy your visit. The most effective way to stay safe is to make sure you and your children wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water immediately after visiting the animals and always before eating and drinking. Sanitiser gels are not a substitute for soap, but may provide extra protection when used after hand washing. In some farms, you will also find shoe cleaning stations to clean footwear, wheelchairs and pushchairs. Young children should be discouraged from putting their faces too close to the animals and from putting their hands in their own mouths. They should also avoid eating or drinking around the farm; most farms will have dedicated eating areas. We work closely with local farms to make sure these washing facilities are in place and easily accessible so all you will need to do is follow their advice and enjoy your visit.
Helping hoarders change their habits
Hoarding is a serious issue that television programmes like Britain’s Biggest Hoarders have brought into the spotlight recently. Hoarding goes beyond a tendency towards messiness to a recognised medical condition requiring careful treatment. Hoarders excessively collect items of little value, such as newspapers, books, clothing, and in some cases rubbish, rotten food and animals, resulting in unmanageable amounts of clutter. Hoarding is considered a significant problem when the amount of clutter interferes with everyday living and compromises the health and safety of those living in or near to the home. It can cause serious health problems, structural damage, pest infestations or fire. Hoarding is a widespread issue affecting between 2% and 3% of the population approximately 1.2 million people in the UK. We deal with a number of cases each year in South Cambridgeshire which can sometimes lead to emotionally distressing enforced clearances. The reasons why someone becomes a hoarder are not fully understood and when it comes to tackling this issue, treatment needs to go beyond decluttering the hoarder’s house. Hoarders need to learn how to change the way they think about acquiring, purchasing, or collecting as well as how they relate to their belongings. If you suspect someone is suffering from hoarding, you can find help and practical advice at www.helpforhoarders.co.uk or you can report it to us by emailing duty.h&es@scambs.gov.uk or call 03450 450 063
Spring 2015
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South Cambs Magazine
Housing
Looking for land We’re committed to building affordable homes for local people and need your help to find suitable land to build more. The kind of land we’re looking for usually falls outside of a village boundary, but is still close to community facilities. We call these plots of land ‘exception sites’ where planning permission is given to provide affordable housing for local people. Local knowledge is key to finding land, and we’re working with parish councils and local landowners to identify suitable exception sites, with an aim to build an extra 1,000 homes over the next 15 years as part of the City Deal.
If you feel there’s a need for affordable housing in your village, and you are or know of a landowner who may be willing to help, please contact Gill Anderton on gill.anderton@scambs.gov.uk or 01954 713377
Absolutely pre-fabulous
Council tenants living in post-war prefab bungalows in Sawston have had a warmer winter after we invested £1million to improve the insulation and energy efficiency of their homes. The project saw 28 metal Hawksley bungalows retrofitted with external wall insulation, new roofs, loft insulation plus doubleglazed windows and front and back doors. Solar panels were also fitted, supplying tenants with free electricity during the day which could save each household an average of £210 a year. The work, carried out by Fosters Property Maintenance, is part of a five-year programme to upgrade insulation and improve the energy efficiency of our homes. So far over 2,000 have been fitted with solar panels through a project with Savills Solar and nearly 300 with solid wall insulation by Fosters. Councillor Mark Howell, lead councillor for housing, said: “This was a great project, finished at just the right time of year for our tenants to benefit from a home that is easier and cheaper to heat.” Catherine O’Callaghan, who lives in one of the bungalows, said: “I am very grateful to the Council for transforming my home, and I saw a 50% drop in my gas and electric bill almost immediately. As well as being warmer, the work has made my bungalow look like a beautiful cottage. I am very proud to call it my home.”
Residents are reaping the benefits of energy efficiency measures
Spring 2015
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Sports
South Cambs Magazine
New Year running resolutions The New Year inspires most of us to set goals and statistics show that people who make New Year resolutions are 10 times more likely to achieve their goals than those who don’t.
If you have resolved to get in shape in 2015 you may be inspired by Larraine HowardJones who, like most people who make New Year resolutions, set herself goals relating to health and fitness. Larraine felt overweight and unfit, and was very keen to improve her general health and wellbeing. She started her journey last New Year with the NHS Choices Couch to 5K programme. Soon after, she discovered Parkrun which she says has changed her life. Parkrun is a great place for aspiring runners to start. It is a weekly running session open to everyone, of all ages and abilities. There is no expectation, everyone runs at their own pace, you are made to feel very welcome and other runners are extremely encouraging. It’s now been a year and Larraine couldn’t be happier, not only because she achieved her goals but because she has a hole in her shoe. This may be something more likely to irritate many of us, but for Larraine it is a trophy, a badge of honour, a reason to be pleased with herself. Larraine now boasts a drawer dedicated to running gear and is a trained run leader at Parkrun, helping other people of all abilities with the same aspirations. Larraine said: “Gone are the morning lie-ins when I eased myself gently in to the weekend with no real get-up-and-go. I have found a whole new life outdoors. I start the day filling my lungs with fresh air, getting out and about in the countryside and enjoying a feel-good rush that energises me for the day ahead. “I never thought I’d say it but I love running, and taking part in the weekly Parkrun is fantastic. Everyone cheers each other on and we have a lot of fun - we’re so full of happy endorphins!” “Whether you want to walk, jog, sprint, carry, cajole and push children around in buggies, there is something for you."
Parkrun Why not test yourself over a 5km timed route? You can do this at the following organised Parkruns: Milton Country Park - every Saturday at 9am www.parkrun.org.uk/cambridge
Junior Parkrun
Wimpole Estate - every Saturday at 9am www.parkrun.org.uk/wimpoleestate
Last July we helped to establish a junior Parkrun which has been a huge success. Over 750 young people have taken part so far and around a hundred 4 to 14 year olds are turning up each week to run 2km. Milton Country Park - Every Sunday at 10am www.parkrun.org.uk/cambridge-juniors
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Wimpole Estate - launches 29 March www.parkrun.org.uk/wimpoleestate
Spring 2015
Sport
South Cambs Magazine
Social running groups: Mondays
Great Abington Institute, 9am to 10am Contact: Victoria Green on 07762 902976 Prime Time Fitness, Girton Weekly at 7pm (starting in March) Contact: 01223 519548 Sawston Sports Centre, 6.30pm to 7.30pm Contact: Victoria Green on 07762 902976
Tuesdays
The Exhibition Pub Car Park, Over, 6.30pm Contact: clare@cstrongman.co.uk or 01954 231806 www.facebook.com/FenEdgeRunners
Wednesdays
Bourn Primary School, Bourn, 9am to 10am Contact: hannahhodgson@hotmail.com Sawston Sports Centre, 6.30pm to 7.30pm Contact: Victoria Green on 07762 902976 Swavesey Sports Centre from 6:30pm Contact: clare@cstrongman.co.uk or 01954 231806 www.facebook.com/FenEdgeRunners
Set yourself a goal
If you are thinking about starting running, why not set yourself a goal? There are a number of local events coming up which you can enter:
Thursdays
Cottenham Village Green, from 6:30pm Contact: clare@cstrongman.co.uk or 01954 231806 www.facebook.com/FenEdgeRunners Melbourn Sports Centre - Duathlon (swim and run), 7.30pm to 8.30pm Contact: 01763 263313
Fridays
Monkfield Park Primary School, Cambourne, 9.30am to 10.30am Contact: jenny_macfarlane@hotmail.com or Sam Helewell on 07928 060972
Sundays
The Exhibition Pub Car Park, Over, from 10am Contact: clare@cstrongman.co.uk or 01954 231806 www.facebook.com/FenEdgeRunners
For more information on any of these groups, visit www.scambs.gov.uk/run-fun
Saturday 7 March - Wimpole Nightrun www.nationaltrust.org.uk/article-1355873433694 Sunday 22 March - Swavesey Half Marathon www.swaveseyhalfmarathon.org.uk Sunday 12 April - Cambourne 10K www.cambridgefestivalofrunning.com Monday 4 May - Impington 5k & Running Festival with 3k and children’s 1k www.friendsoftherec.co.uk Sunday 17 May - Wimpole Hoohaah 10K http://hoohaah.co.uk/ Sunday 7th June - The Flaming June Half Marathon www.theflamingjunehalf.co.uk Sunday 1st November - Bonfire Burn 10k www.bonfireburn10k.co.uk
Getting started
If you would like help to set up a running group in your village, we can help. Contact Helen Stepney on 01954 713362 for an initial chat. If you want to try to get into running by yourself first, we recommend the NHS Choices Couch to 5k programme. For more information and guidance, visit www.nhs.uk/Livewell/c25k/Pages/couch-to-5k.aspx
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Sport
Easter holiday camps
Have fun during the school holidays by joining our ever popular programme of sporting activities for 7 to 15 year olds. They are a great way to stay active whilst having fun, learning new skills and making friends. Netball - 7 and 8 April Impington Sports Centre, New Road, Impington - 10am to 3.30pm Athletics - 9 and 10 April Wilberforce Road Athletics Track, Cambridge - 10am to 3.30pm Open to all abilities, the camps cost just £18 for the day (£30 for two siblings), £30 for two days, £40 for 3 days or £50 for all four days. For more information and to book, contact Helen Stepney on helen.stepney@scambs.gov.uk or 01954 713362
Walk on water
From 1 May through to the end of September paddleboarding will return to Milton Country Park. A number of taster sessions and courses will be available for both young people and adults of all abilities and if you’re planning a party or team building event, ask us about our group activities. Taster sessions £10 per person Every Friday from 30 April to 25 September: 4.30pm to 5.15pm and 5.15pm to 6pm Every other Saturday from 2 May to 5 September: 10am to 10.45am 10.45am to 11.30am 11.30am to 12.15pm 12.15pm to 1pm Weekday courses £60 per person Five-week courses will run every Thursday from 5pm to 6pm and from 6pm to 7pm starting on the following dates: 30 April 11 June 3 September For information and to book on these, and more advanced adult sessions visit: www.scambs.gov.uk/content/paddleboarding-0 or contact helen.stepney@scambs.gov.uk or 01954 713362
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South Cambs Magazine
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