Heathscene Winter 2017 by Surrey Heath

heathscene winter 2017

4-5

Message from the

Camberley Town Centre

Chief Executive

Key regeneration projects update

Surrey Heath Sports Awards

This year’s worthy winners

18 #TalkSurreyHeath Our latest online Q&A session #talksurreyheath

Community grants

Local groups receive vital funding

Copywriting by Kate Noviss and Joanne Atkinson, Surrey Heath Borough Council Designed and printed by Frontline, Ashdown House, Charlwoods Road, East Grinstead, West Sussex RH19 2HJ Published by Surrey Heath Borough Council, Email heathscene@surreyheath.gov.uk Tel: 01276 707100. If you require this magazine in a different format, please call the media & marketing team on 01276 707312. Copyright © Surrey Heath Borough Council. Surrey Heath Borough Council does not accept responsibility for the views expressed by advertisers in this magazine, nor does it necessarily endorse products or services advertised.

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Would you like the opportunity to promote your business to 37,000 households in Surrey Heath? Surrey Heath Borough Council offers advertising space at competitive rates in Heathscene magazine, distributed to every household in the borough. For further information contact Frontline on 01342 312570 or email frontline@frontlinedesigners.co.uk

Can it really be almost Christmas again already? We’ve definitely had another busy year in Surrey Heath. Christmas is always a special time for sharing with family and friends, as well as thinking of those who may not be able to see loved ones over the festive season either through distance or work commitments, for example in our muchvalued military services. As the festive season gets into full swing, there’s plenty to look forward to across the Borough - from a real ice rink in the heart of Camberley Town Centre (see p7) to Christmas festivities in our parks and parishes (pages 8 and 25), and of course Camberley Theatre’s annual panto extravaganza - this year it’s Peter Pan, and by all accounts it’s going to be an awfully big adventure! Go to page 6 for all the info. I trust you will have noticed plenty of progress on our key priority of regenerating Camberley Town Centre - hopefully you are getting used to calling the shopping centre its new name of The Square, and can see the positive effects of the ongoing refurbishment work! For the latest updates, see pages 4 and 5. Late night shopping on Thursdays has had a positive response - please continue to support local shops to stay open for longer by using them later! Encouraging economic growth in Surrey Heath is another crucial part of our remit, and the success of the first Camberley Enterprise Expo was very pleasing, along with the latest in our Business Breakfast events - turn to page 22-23 for a round up. We’ve also got updates on various consultations affecting residents, including the ward boundary review, and the implementation of the Public Spaces Protection Order - pages 15 and 16 have the details. These are just a few highlights - keep an eye on our website, Christmas in Camberley brochure, and our #TalkSurreyHeath events to stay up to date with goings-on in Surrey Heath. Wishing everyone a very happy Christmas.

Karen Whelan Chief Executive

www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 3

camberley

Camberley We’re transforming retail, leisure and residential spaces across Camberley to create a vibrant contemporary place for all to enjoy.

logo ties this together with our ambitious regeneration plans for the town centre.” Chief Executive Karen Whelan said, “The Council has made a substantial investment in the town centre to create a vibrant place for our residents and visitors and support a positive future for Camberley.” Ashwood House and Pembroke House Another key milestone has been reached in the redevelopment of Ashwood House and Pembroke House in Camberley with the exchange of contracts with the selected developer, Berkeley Homes.

The Square - the place to be around If you’ve visited The Square recently you will have noticed it is undergoing a transformation. Not only has Camberley’s main shopping centre got a new name and logo, it is also getting new flooring, lighting, facades and signage. The Square (formerly The Mall) was purchased by the Council in November 2016. We are investing around £8m to refurbish the shopping centre to provide a contemporary, clean and pleasant place to shop and socialise. The renovations will continue until late 2018. The renaming and refurbishment of the shopping centre marks a significant new chapter for

Camberley Town Centre. Councillor Moira Gibson, Leader of the Council, said: “We are delighted to launch the new name for the shopping centre. The new name ‘The Square’ reflects the heritage of the area and the contemporary

4 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/camberley

Ashwood House occupies a key site on Pembroke Broadway in Camberley town centre, and the upper floors of the building will be transformed into high quality residential accommodation, comprising of 116 flats, subject to planning permission.

camberley

- Be Inspired Simultaneously, Berkeley Homes will redevelop Pembroke House, located on Frimley Road. The scheme should offer 25 flats and ground floor retail space, subject to planning permission, providing affordable housing for local people and retail space for Camberley’s businesses. Planning applications have been submitted for both developments, and are currently being considered, with a decision expected before the end of the year. Positive Public Spaces Over the summer we asked for people’s views on proposed changes to the High Street and nearby ‘public realm’ areas including Princess Way. Plans include creating flexible, open spaces where pedestrians have priority. The results of this feedback

are due to be released before the end of the year. Showcasing Camberley across the country Councillors and officers have been promoting Camberley to national developers and investors at key property events, including REVO (the British Council of Shopping Centres’ exhibition) in Liverpool in September, and MIPIM UK real estate conference with Surrey County Council in London last month.

Our key message to property developers and retailers is the changing perception of the town feedback so far is that retailers have acknowledged that within a year of taking control SHBC is delivering the long-promised improvement, and refocusing the town centre brand. Our vision for Camberley The Council’s ultimate intention is to ensure the town centre is regenerated into a space where retailers, bars and restaurants can thrive, and people from Camberley and the surrounding areas visit for shopping, leisure and socialising with family and friends. We look forward to sharing the works and our vision as we transform and improve Camberley. Be Camberley. Be Inspired.

Be Transformed Be Here

Be Active

Be Involved Be Unique

Be Redeveloped Be Refreshed Be Entertained

www.surreyheath.gov.uk/camberley I Heathscene I 5

pantomime

Flying

High!

Enjoy a fresh adaptation of the classic ‘Peter Pan’ at Camberley Theatre this Christmas - it’s going to be an awfully big adventure, as the cast explain below…

What can audiences expect? Wendy (Grace Holroyd) : Families this Christmas should head toward the second star to the right and straight on ‘til Camberley! The show is packed full of singing and dancing - and of course the wonderful story that we all know and love. What’s your character like? Hook (Marcus Churchill): I think Captain Hook is misunderstood. That horrible brat Peter Pan caused him to have his hand eaten by a crocodile! I think I would be pretty angry about that too.

Competition We have a family ticket to Peter Pan to give away just answer this question:

Who wrote ‘Peter Pan’? Was it: A. Barry Chuckle B. Barry Manilow C. JM Barrie Please text Panto, followed by either A, B or C to 60163 before 8 December. We will notify the lucky winner by 11 December. All texts are charged at the standard rate. If you have text bundles included in your mobile contract, then this text will come out of that bundle at no charge.

I’m sure deep down he’s a cuddly teddy bear with only a passing hatred for horrible smelly children… What is so special about Panto? Wendy: Panto is very special because it’s at the best time of the year, and it is something that everyone enjoys! Perfect for all ages, it is a guaranteed fun performance that will ensure you leave the theatre with a smile on your face. 6 I Heathscene I www.camberleytheatre.co.uk

What would your Neverland look like? Mr Smee (Charlie Legg): I love the outdoors so I imagine Neverland to be full of gorgeous beaches, exotic plants and strange animals such as mermaids and fairies... I can’t wait to find out! What are you looking forward to most about Peter Pan? Mrs Smee (Robert Pearce): I’m looking forward to the fairy dust, flying and keeping Camberley entertained this Christmas! ‘Peter Pan’ runs at Camberley Theatre from 12-31 December. Box Office: 01276 707600 www.camberleytheatre.co.uk.

h e a t h s c e n!er

- Ticket Offe

Heathscene readers can get 10% OFF all pantomime ticket prices booked until 11 December - quote ‘Heathscene10’ at the box office, by phone, or online. What are you waiting for?

Skate

leisure

into Christmas

A magical real ice rink is coming to Camberley Town Centre this December Christmas lights and many festive events and promotions taking place in Park Street, High Street and our shopping centres.” The ice rink will be open from 9 December until 5 January 2018, with 45 minute long skating slots available. Skaters must be aged 3 or over. For those seeking an unique experience, exclusive use of the ice rink can be arranged for schools, Christmas parties and groups of friends at selected times by contacting the event box office.

The Council is pleased to be bringing a real ice rink to Park Street, Camberley over the Christmas period.

Ice Skate Camberley is proudly supported by Knights Property Services, Camberley.

Local residents and visitors will be able to get their skates on and enjoy the festive atmosphere in the centre of the town. Leader of the Council, Cllr Moira Gibson said: “Surrey Heath Borough Council is delighted that an ice rink will be coming to Camberley for Christmas. “We know that many of our residents enjoyed the opportunity to skate last year and we hope by locating the ice rink directly into our vibrant town centre many more people can enjoy a magical open air skate on real ice when they are Christmas shopping and meeting family and friends.”

To find out more, including information on how to book your tickets, visit www.christmasincamberley.co.uk. SHBC Chief Executive Karen Whelan added: “Join us in Camberley this Christmas. The town centre will be a lovely place where you can enjoy the ice rink, Christmas in Camberley is going to be lots of fun for all the family - why not take the kids to visit Father Christmas at The Square shopping centre from 1-24 December? More info: www.bookfatherchristmas.co.uk/camberley

www.christmasincamberley.co.uk I Heathscene I 7

recycling

Tree-mendous! Recycle your Christmas tree for free in Surrey Heath.

Following the success of the last year’s scheme, residents can recycle their real Christmas tree for free in the new year as part of a Councilrun scheme - and help maintain the Borough’s parks at the same time. Between 2-14 January 2018, we are running 15 drop off sites across Surrey Heath where residents can drive in and leave their ‘real’ Christmas tree in a designated area. At the end of this period, the trees will be chipped and the resulting wood chippings will be used to replenish paths in our parks. Last year, around 500 trees were recycled via the scheme, which

helped restock paths in Frimley Lodge Park.

Plaque in Frimley Lodge Park marking last year’s Christmas tree recycling scheme.

This event is being sponsored by an experienced local family-run company, Branch Management (www.branchmanagement.co.uk). Based in Bagshot, they cater for all

aspects of tree care for customers across Surrey Heath. Surrey Heath Business Portfolio Holder Cllr Craig Fennell said: “We were pleased that residents took advantage of this scheme in great numbers last year. It has several benefits, for residents, our parks and the environment in general, and I encourage people to use it once the festive period comes to an end.”

The sites where Christmas trees can be dropped off are:

Drop-off Location

Postcode

Heatherside Park (near the recreation ground)

GU15 1AY

Watchetts Road Car Park

GU15 2UZ

Old Dean Recreation Ground

GU15 4AF

Prior Heath Car Park

GU15 1DA

Frimley Green Recreation Ground

GU16 6JZ

Mytchett Recreation Ground

GU16 6JD

School Lane, Bagshot

GU19 5BP

Lightwater Recreation Ground

GU18 5SJ

Windmill Field, Windlesham

GU20 6QA

Clews Lane, Bisley

GU24 9HD

Rosewood Way, West End

GU24 9XG

Yorktown Car Park, Camberley

GU15 3AU

Clarence Drive, Camberley

GU15 1JT

Woodend Road Car Park, Deepcut

GU16 6SD

Chobham Car Park, Chobham

GU24 8LZ

8 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/recycling

Christmas trees can also be dropped off at Community Recycling Centres, or left out with your brown garden waste bin if you are subscribed to the scheme. Restrictions apply: only real Christmas trees can be accepted for this event, and all decorations must be removed from the trees before they are left at the drop-off points.

recycling

Christmas

collection dates Make a note of the revised waste and recycling dates over the festive period.

Week Commencing 25 December:

Joint Waste Solutions

Normal Collection Day

Revised Collection Day

Monday 25 (Christmas Day)

Wednesday 27

Tuesday 26 (Boxing Day)

Thursday 28

Wednesday 27

Friday 29

Thursday 28

Saturday 30

Friday 29

Tuesday 2

Week Commencing 1 January: Normal Collection Day

Revised Collection Day

Monday 1 (New Year’s Day)

Wednesday 3

Tuesday 2

Thursday 4

Wednesday 3

Friday 5

Thursday 4

Saturday 6

Friday 5

Monday 8

Week Commencing 8 January: Normal Collection Day

Revised Collection Day

Monday 8

Tuesday 9

Wednesday 10

Thursday 11

Friday 12

Saturday 13

Collections will be back to normal on Monday 15 January.

You may be aware that from February next year a new contractor will start emptying the bins in Surrey Heath, so there will be a few small changes to the times of your bin collections, as well as some improvements to the recycling services. This is because of a new initiative which has seen Surrey Heath’s waste services being combined with three other local councils in Surrey to form Joint Waste Solutions. This new organisation will manage the new waste collection contract with Amey across all four areas and save around £2.5m a year, whilst maintaining high quality services. Joint Waste Solutions will be in touch to give you more details about the improved services and changes before they take place.

www.surreyheath.gov.uk/recycling I Heathscene I 9

leisure

Let’s play! Two newly-refurbished playgrounds in Camberley have been officially opened by the Council.

The playgrounds, in Martel Close and Clarence Drive, have been transformed through more than £67,000 of investment.

In the Clarence Drive play area, the existing equipment has been replaced with new play pieces including a trampoline, multi-play

Deputy Mayor Cllr Dan Adams said: “I’m delighted to see these amazing play areas opened encouraging children to be active outdoors is really important, and who could resist with such great facilities on our doorstep?”

Earlier this year the Council agreed a Borough-wide playground improvement scheme, worth over £650,000 over the next three years. Playgrounds earmarked for refurbishment/replacement include: · Briar Avenue, Lightwater · Cheylesmore Drive Play Area, Heatherside

Deputy Mayor and St Paul’s ward Councillor Dan Adams was joined by fellow ward Councillors Bill and Vivienne Chapman at the event, along with SHBC Executive Head of Business Daniel Harrison.

unit, nest swing, see-saw, play panels and springer. A new area of adult gym equipment has been added around the perimeter. In Martel Close, the existing equipment was refurbished and repainted, and new pieces added including a nest swing, pick up sticks climbing frame, roundabout, a multi play unit and various activity panels. The renovation of both play areas was funded by developer contributions related to the Wellington Park housing development.

10 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/leisure

· Chobham Road Recreation Ground, Frimley · Evergreen Road Play Area, Parkside · Frimley Lodge Park · Lightwater Country Park · Loman Road, Mytchett & Deepcut · London Road Recreation Ground, St Michaels · Old Dean Recreation Ground · Watchetts Recreation Ground · Whitmoor Road, Bagshot.

sports development

Go-Tri Update More than 50 competitors swam, cycled and ran their way around Camberley in the first ever Specsavers GO-TRI Camberley at the Arena Leisure Centre on Sunday 10 September.

GO-TRI is an introduction to triathlon aimed specifically at beginners, and provides a platform for those looking to improve their fitness or get involved in the sport. The event featured a 200m swim in the Arena swimming pool, an 8km cycle through the flat and flowing roads of Camberley before finishing with a 2km run around London Road Recreation Ground. Those taking part also had the opportunity to pick up some tips from GB Age Group triathlete Samantha Taylor, who came along to lend her support to the event. Following the success of this inaugural event, the Council are hoping to organise more triathlon-related events in the coming year - to register your interest go to www.surreyheath.gov.uk/tri

Sporting

stars

The best in Surrey Heath sport was celebrated at the Sports Awards last month with a special ceremony at Camberley Theatre.

The awards recognise and reward talented local athletes, coaches, volunteers, teams and clubs for their outstanding commitment and achievements in sport over the past 12 months. The winners were selected by the Surrey Heath Sports Council. • Coach of the Year Sam Voight, Camberley RFC • Club of the Year Bagshot Tennis Club • Disability Sports Award Adrian Gale, Valley End Cricket Club Rascals • Outstanding Service John Wickens, Bagshot FC

• Young Volunteer Ollie Wickes, Chobham RFC Specsavers Surrey Youth Games Awards • Performance of the Games Alice Lockhart (swimming) • Coach of the Games Sandra Parnell (netball) • Young Ambassador of the Year - Morgan Markson • Most Supportive School Holy Trinity C of E Primary School Congratulations to all the winners for more photos visit www.surreyheath.gov.uk/shsa. Special thanks to our sponsors Specsavers, Places for People, Surrey Playing Fields, Active Surrey, Complete Coaching, 96.4 Eagle Radio, Basepoint Camberley, Legacy Clothing and Camberley Theatre.

• Sports Personality Harry Dugmore, Camberley RFC • Sports Team of the Year Camberley & Farnborough Hockey Club Ladies 1st XI • Young Sports Personality Smrithi Shirol, Swifts Junior Badminton Club • Young Sports Team Chobham Cricket Club U11

12 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/shsa

Chobham Cricket Club Under 11’s won the Young Sports Team of the Year

health

Protect yourself from flu

NHS Surrey Heath Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is encouraging all carers to get vaccinated against flu this winter.

Flu can strike without warning and can leave carers with little or no time to ask someone else to look after the person they care for until they get better. If carers don’t get their flu vaccination, there’s an increased risk that they could pass the virus on to the person they care for, even if they have no symptoms themselves. Carers Flu Vaccination Vouchers, a new initiative for this year, are available for carers to use at local participating community pharmacies in case they are unable to attend their GP surgery for any reason. Dr Andy Brooks, Chief Officer of the CCG and a local Camberley GP said: “Usually, you can manage flu symptoms yourself at home by taking the following simple steps to prevent minor issues becoming major problems:

• Get the flu jab • Don’t run out of prescription medication, especially over the Christmas holiday • Drink fluids to keep hydrated • Rest • Keep warm If you need more advice visit your local pharmacist.” Autumn is the best time to have the vaccination. To find out more contact your local GP surgery, participating community pharmacies or visit www.nhs.uk/flu

Get your Carers Flu Vaccination Vouchers for Adult Carer Support in Surrey from: Action for Carers Call: 0303 040 1234 Email: CarerSupport@actionforcarers.org.uk SMS: 07714 075993

The flu vaccination is one of the most effective ways to reduce harm from flu and is available FREE on the NHS for certain high risk groups including: • • • •

People with learning disabilities Carers Anyone over the age of 65 Children and adults with health conditions • Children & adults with weakened immune systems • Pregnant women

www.surreyheathccg.nhs.uk I Heathscene I 13

theatre

Coming up at Camberley Theatre Check out some of the great shows coming up - and why not drop into the café on a Saturday?

The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars: The Ronnie Scott’s Soho Songbook - Fri 2 Feb, 7.30pm, £22

‘Outstanding players. For poise, balance and swing they’re a joy to listen to’ The Observer Direct from London’s worldfamous jazz club and combining world-class live jazz, narration and rare archive images and footage, The Ronnie Scott’s All Stars take to the stage to celebrate ‘The Ronnie Scott’s Soho Songbook’.

MONSTERSAURUS! from the creators of Aliens Love Underpants is an energetic show full of thrills, spills, magic and mayhem and will delight the whole family. There’s original music and lots of audience participation and there’s plenty of chance for everyone to get involved!

Champions of Magic Sat 31 March, 2pm Full £25, Theatre Club £24, Family of 4 £90 / 7.30pm, Full £30, Theatre Club £29 Direct from a hit season in London’s West End, the world-

Trainspotting Live Tues 6 & Weds 7 March, 7pm and 8.45pm, Seated £25, General admission £21. Age 16+ by Irvine Welsh Adapted by Harry Gibson

Monstersaurus! Sun 4 March, noon and 3pm, Full £13, Child £11

class illusionists that make up the Champions Of Magic team return for a spectacular night of mystery. Witness the impossible, including disappearances, teleportation and a heart stopping finale, all presented with lighting and pyrotechnics to rival the biggest arena productions. • Box Office 01276 707600

This punchy production recaptures the passion and controversy of the famous novel and globally successful film, and repackages it into an immersive production the audience are literally part of the show, including the notorious “Worst Toilet in Scotland” scene. This is a ticket to a ride you won’t soon forget. Choose life. 14 I Heathscene I www.camberleytheatre.co.uk

Drop in for a coffee… The café at Camberley Theatre is now open on Saturdays from 10am-3pm. Why not pop in for a tea, coffee and cake? You can also take advantage of the discounted Theatre car parking rate.

council

Electoral

Review update The Local Government Boundary Commission for England, an independent body set up by Parliament, has issued its final recommendations on new electoral arrangements for Surrey Heath Borough Council. The final recommendations propose that 35 councillors should represent 7 three councillor wards and 7 two councillor wards. This is a reduction from the existing 40 councillors representing 16 wards. Subject to parliamentary scrutiny, the new warding arrangements will come into effect with the Borough Elections in May 2019.

a review of polling districts and polling places to facilitate the new arrangements. The Council will give notice of the review and consult all interested parties. A detailed report on the Boundary Commission’s final recommendations and interactive mapping is available on their website at: www.lgbce.org.uk.

Local Plan latest The Council is in the early stages of producing a new Local Plan for the Borough. The new Local Plan will guide the location, scale and type of future development in Surrey Heath up to 2032. The Council will consult on an ‘Issues and Options’ stage of the new plan in Spring 2018 to seek the views of residents and businesses.

The Council will now conduct

Parliamentary Boundary Review The Boundary Commission for England is conducting a Review to ensure that the numbers of electors in each constituency are broadly equal.

The BCE published its initial proposals for revised constituencies last month, which for Surrey Heath involve moving Windlesham ward from the Surrey Heath constituency to the Windsor constituency. Residents are encouraged to submit

their views to the BCE with a deadline of 11 December 2017. The Commission will make its final report and recommendations in September 2018. Further information: www.bce2018.org.uk

Parliamentary boundaries define the geographic area represented by each MP. Parliament has specified that the number of constituencies in the UK must reduce from the current 650 to 600. As a result the number of constituencies in England will decrease from 533 to 501.

www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 15

consultation update

Protecting Public Spaces

The Council has adopted new powers to protect public spaces. Following public consultation, the Council has implemented a Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO), which will allow additional powers to address anti-social activities in the Borough’s parks and public spaces. The PSPO, which came into force on 14 October 2017, will help address a range of low level antisocial behaviour which is having a detrimental effect on the quality of life of local people. As a result of changes in national legislation, the Council held a consultation on proposals for new Public Spaces Protection Orders in late 2016, and again earlier this year.

The consultation looked at actions and behaviours such as begging in Camberley, the taking of psychoactive substances (formerly legal highs) and their impact upon health and behaviour, anti-social behaviour that can be caused through public drinking, and measures to encourage responsible dog ownership which include exclusions from children’s play areas and clearing up dog waste. Councillor Vivienne Chapman, Portfolio Holder for Community said: “Surrey Heath is already a safe and environmentally friendly Borough, and we want to make it even safer.

16 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/pspo

“The introduction of Public Space Protection Orders is about improving the quality of life for people who live, work and visit Surrey Heath. “It enables the Council and Police to discourage anti-social behaviour, and where necessary take appropriate action against people who continue to behave in an antisocial way.” “Thanks to all who responded to the consultation.” For more information on the PSPO, including maps of where it applies, please visit the website address below.

#TalkSurreyHeath

Consultation Finances and Economic Development were the subjects up for debate in the latest of our innovative livestreamed Q&A sessions.

Surrey Heath residents and business owners quizzed Councillors and Council officers about Financial and Economic Development issues last month in the latest #TalkSurreyHeath event. The panel facing questions on 11 October consisted of Deputy Leader of the Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance Cllr Richard Brooks, SHBC Chief Executive Karen Whelan, and Surrey Heath Executive Head of Finance Kelvin Menon. The panel answered dozens of questions during the hourlong session. A wide range of subjects were discussed including the regeneration of Camberley Town Centre, and the Council’s investment in the recently renamed shopping centre The Square.

The Council’s work supporting economic development in Surrey Heath was another focus, including the recent Camberley Enterprise Expo and Business Breakfast events.

on talk@surreyheath.gov.uk

During the event, broadcast via Facebook Live from the Council Chamber at Surrey Heath House, members of the public could follow the live video stream on the SHBC Facebook page. If you’d like to watch the video of the session, it can be found on the same page.

“We appreciated the engagement from the public, hearing people’s views and enjoyed answering their questions at this latest #TalkSurreyHeath event.”

Before and during the event, questions were submitted via Facebook, Twitter, or email

The Council’s strategy of delivering efficiency and increasing income to continue to provide a wide range of services in a climate of reduced Government funding was also addressed.

18 I Heathscene I www.facebook.com/surreyheath

Cllr Brooks said: “Delivering a balanced budget whilst maintaining the economic development of the borough is a constant challenge.

For details of future #TalkSurreyHeath events follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and check the News section of our website.

Help

when you need it most Red button, Helpline, panic alarm or Careline whichever name you give it, our community alarms have one aim in mind - to help your loved ones to live independently at home for as long as possible. ones need assistance, they can press their pendant safe in the knowledge that an operator will respond night or day. Personalised installation visit

The market for these alarms is ever expanding, technology developing and accessibility increasing. So why come to us? Local and accessible Our community alarms service has been running for over 20 years, providing peace of mind and reassurance to thousands of Surrey Heath residents. Operated by the Borough Council, we are a trusted provider whose primary focus is to support our residents. Around the clock support at the touch of a button All our community alarms are monitored by a Surrey-based, accredited Service Centre 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. If your loved

community

Free Key Safe For added peace of mind, we can install a key safe free of charge when taking up the alarm service, enabling emergency services access if required. Faulty equipment replacement and repair Equipment stopped working? No problem! Just give us a call and a member of staff will work to fix it as soon as possible, or if unable, will replace it free of charge.

No equipment sent through the letterbox - on joining the service all our clients receive a visit from our friendly team of staff to discuss and install the equipment which best suits their needs.

“It is so reassuring knowing that someone is always there to help if needed” Tailored to individual needs For additional support, a range of Telecare sensors can be wirelessly linked to the alarm. Environmental sensors such as smoke or carbon monoxide detectors help to keep your loved ones safe, whilst our wellbeing sensors, such as medication dispensers, fall detectors, epilepsy sensors and movement detectors assist them in living independently.

Regular reviews Our staff undertake regular review visits for all our clients to ensure the service continues to meet their needs and their information is up to date. A community alarm is available for a small monthly fee. Sign up before 31 December 2017, quoting “Heathscene” to receive a linked smoke detector free of charge with the alarm. To find out more, contact us today on 01276 707659 or visit the website below.

www.surreyheath.gov.uk/communityalarms I Heathscene I 19

resilience

prepared

The Chobham Resilience Steering Group help ensure the residents are prepared for and can support one another during a local emergency.

The group was set up following flooding two years in succession in 2006-7. They plan their response to emergencies such as flooding and heath fires, with a network of volunteers ready to inform and help the local community at times of need. The group, which consists of Parish Councillors and members of the public, also alleviates the risk of local emergencies, for example by clearing gullies and ditches to help prevent flooding, and obtaining funding to stockpile crucial resources should the worst happen. Such groups are vital in having a strong local community prepared to handle emergencies - they provide support, foster local awareness and preparedness, and protect the community’s most vulnerable people. The group regularly meets with organisations such as Surrey Fire and Rescue, the Environment Agency, and Borough and County Council to further their work.

• To find out more about setting up a Local Resilience Group, contact the Emergency Planning Cllr Les Coombs, Chairman of Chobham Parish Council and the Parish’s Head Emergency Warden, said: “It was local people who got the group going in the first place with the support of the County Councillor at the time, Lavinia Sealy. People who had been through the devastation of seeing their homes flooded were determined to see some action.

“Members came up with the concept of a group of volunteer wardens to help vulnerable people in emergencies and started to develop an emergency plan. “Regular meetings took place, identifying the areas and properties

20 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/environment

department at Surrey Heath Borough Council on info@appliedresilience.org. which were most at risk within the Parish, tackling ways of preventing flooding and discussing how the volunteers could safely help if an emergency occurred. “More recently, a new plan, developed with the support of County Councillor Mike Goodman has been completed which not only sets out the necessary procedures to follow during an emergency but also emphasises that prevention measures are just as important. “Fortunately, the village has been spared major flooding for a decade - but we would very much like to hear from more potential recruits, and anyone with 4 x 4 vehicles willing to help with transporting supplies around the village.” • If you are interested in volunteering, contact Chobham Parish Council office on 01276 856633.

community

Supporting our Community

Local community groups have benefited from more than £200,000 through the Council’s Community Fund Grant Scheme (CFGS) over the past five years. Since 2013, more than £200,000 has been awarded to local groups via the CFGS, helping organisations including sports clubs, charities, village halls and youth projects. The Scheme provides grants of up to £25,000 to assist groups and organisations in Surrey Heath if funding is needed towards projects benefiting local communities. In the latest round of funding, last month the Council’s Executive awarded a total of £21,087 in grant funding to support Bagshot Playing Fields Association, Old Dean Bowling Club, West End Bowls Club and West End Village Society.

• West End Village Society will receive £300 to plant bulbs on the A322 highway grass verges. Surrey Heath Corporate Portfolio Holder Cllr Josephine Hawkins said: “Many residents of Surrey Heath benefit from the services provided by local community groups, and we are pleased to support their projects with these grants. “I encourage local groups with beneficial projects who may need assistance to get in touch and find out if they can apply for a grant.” Applications to the Community Fund Grant scheme are considered twice a year, with deadlines of 30

June and 31 December. Full details of the scheme can be found on our website, at the address below.

• Bagshot Playing Fields Association will receive £10,000 to replace a dilapidated children’s playground. • Old Dean Bowling Club was awarded £5,787 to install disabled toilet facilities and update the fire alarm system. • West End Bowls Club will receive £5,000 to extend the existing clubhouse to meet the increasing club membership numbers. www.surreyheath.gov.uk/communitygrants I Heathscene I 21

expo

Expolaunched A great showcase for local business, the first Camberley Enterprise Expo took place in September.

This new event brought together businesses from Surrey Heath and beyond, for a mix of networking, exhibiting, workshops and seminars.

Evans (the managing company of The Square shopping centre), spoke about developing business in Camberley, alongside SHBC Chief Executive Karen Whelan.

Karen Whelan said, “The Expo proved to be a fantastic celebration of local business. I was so pleased to see such a great turnout and hope our exhibitors and visitors enjoyed the day.”

The packed exhibition hall included IT companies, professional services, charities and retailers showcasing their products and services to delegates.

Held at Camberley Theatre, the pre-show breakfast seminar, hosted by SHBC, provided an update on the latest redevelopment plans for Camberley. Surrey Heath MP Michael Gove opened the event via video link to express his support for the Expo, and businesses based in the local area. Alan Harris, Partner at Montagu-

The Expo, on 13 September, featured seminars on topics including presentation skills, marketing tips and generating new business. Eagle Radio also offered digital workshops throughout the day. Visitors to the SHBC stand had the opportunity to talk to council officers about the regeneration of the town, and go on a virtual walk around Camberley town centre via an innovative 3D digital map.

22 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/business

The Expo was a special project of Kevin Cantlon, former Economic Development Officer at Surrey Heath Borough Council, who sadly died earlier this year. Ms Whelan added, “We hope this event did Kevin proud.” There are plans to organise this event next year - keep an eye on SHBC’s website and social media for details in due course.

business

Enterprising opportunities

Delegates at the latest Surrey Heath Business Breakfast heard about the benefits of the Queen’s Awards for Enterprise scheme. More than 100 representatives from local businesses attended the latest Surrey Heath Business Breakfast event at Camberley Theatre. They joined councillors and council officers to network, exhibit, and listen to a series of speakers on The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise.

award, and the benefits it brought their companies. The event, on 29 September, also featured an exhibition from Surrey Heath Borough Council on recent developments on Camberley Town Centre’s regeneration projects, including the ‘Be Camberley’ campaign, the rebranding and refurbishment of The Square shopping centre, and the consultation on proposed improvements to the High Street and other public spaces. Delegates also had the opportunity to visit the various exhibition stands of local businesses at the event, which takes place twice a year and is hosted by the Council.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey Michael More-Molyneux spoke about the award, which recognises outstanding achievement by UK businesses in the categories of innovation, international trade, sustainable development and promoting opportunity through social mobility.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Moira Gibson said: “This event continues

to be a key date in the local business calendar, as an opportunity to make new contacts, meet up with existing ones, and chat about the latest issues affecting firms in the Borough. “It is also an ideal opportunity for us to update businesses on the work we have been doing to encourage economic development in Camberley and across the Borough.” The next Surrey Heath Business Breakfast event will take place on Friday March 9, 2018. It will host the 2018 Surrey Heath Business Awards - for more details go to www.surreyheath.gov.uk/shba

Previous Queen’s Award recipients Alison Lyons from Sesame Access Systems and Richard Llewellyn from Benchmark Geophysical Consulting then shared their experience of the www.surreyheath.gov.uk/businessbreakfast I Heathscene I 23

highways

Improving travel across Surrey Heath

There’s been progress in a number key transport projects across Surrey Heath which will help keep you moving. New pedestrian and cycle lane on the A331 People working at Watchmoor Park are already leaving their cars at home and are now cycling or walking to work following the opening of the shared A331 pedestrian and cycle lane. The shared lane was launched in the summer and had support of the Yorktown and Watchmoor Business Association (YWBA), local businesses and cycling groups.

comments last summer on plans for the Meadows roundabout.

This was the first of a number of major highway projects which will benefit residents and businesses in Surrey Heath.

We found that 68% of reponses asked if the works could be carried out overnight or during off peak traffic periods.

Improving the A30 and Camberley Town Centre

The County Council is committed to minimising the impact of construction works and will, whenever possible, work at night and avoid closing lanes during the morning and evening peak periods.

The Borough and County Councils will be submitting a joint business case to the Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership to match fund proposed improvements on the A30 and Camberley Town Centre. The proposed improvements will complement the regeneration proposals for Camberley Town Centre, encourage walking and cycling and help improve traffic flow through the Frimley Road junction. Listening to your concerns Thank you to everyone who gave

L-R Cllr Colin Kemp, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways; Surrey Heath Borough Council Chief Executive Karen Whelan; professional cyclist Alex Dowsett; YWBA Chair James Stewart; and Rupert Batho from Patrizia.

Construction on the improved Meadows roundabout is scheduled to start in summer 2018. The works are necessary due to the significant increase in traffic at the junction over recent years. Working together Cllr Colin Kemp, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, said: “Transport and

24 I Heathscene I www.surreycc.gov.uk

improved access continues to be a priority for Surrey County Council and working closely with our boroughs and districts, local businesses and local communities is always the best way to deliver what is needed locally. “These schemes are a perfect example of this, where we are working hand in hand with Surrey Heath Borough Council to engage the community to deliver local highway improvements and better access for cyclists and pedestrians. “All of these schemes, delivered with local support and partnerships, will help to reduce journey time locally. We also are working with local operators to improve the reliability of our public transport services and the Stagecoach Gold Route 1 service has set the benchmark for bus services serving the Borough.”

parish news

Festive parish events Get into the Christmas spirit with these fantastic events across the Borough

Bagshot Christmas Market Sat 2 Dec, 12-5pm

be a special visit from Santa, many craft and gift stalls, a tombola, and delicious food and drink available. Get in the Christmas spirit and come along to this event, organised by the Lightwater Business Association. Lighting of the Windlesham Christmas Tree

Bagshot, in raising funds for her chosen charities, the Lisa May Foundation and Harper Asprey Wildlife Rescue. Lightwater Country Park New Year’s Day Resolution Walk - 1 Jan, 10am

Sat 2 Dec, 4pm

There’ll be festive fun and shopping for all the family with games, stalls, food, tombola, raffle and lots of Christmas cheer! Shop at the Christmas Market and pop along the high street to see all that Bagshot has to offer. Don’t miss the carols around the Christmas tree and lights switch on in the village at 5pm. Organised by the Bagshot Business Association. Lightwater Christmas Fayre in the Square Sat 2 Dec, 9.30am-1pm Enjoy the carol singing by All Saints’ Church and village schools, there’ll

This annual event on the Village Green, organised by the Windlesham Society, starts at 4pm with the light switch on at 5pm. Mayor’s Charity Carol Singing Fri 22 Dec, 6pm Enjoy all your favourite festive tunes and join Mayor of Surrey Heath Cllr Valerie White at Waitrose,

As part of our established Walking for Health programme, we are inviting new walkers who would like to take up regular walking to join this special walk. All welcome, meet at Lightwater Country Park café for this hour long, 2.5 mile, free guided walk. The first 50 walkers who commit to a second walk will receive a free pedometer to measure their progress. For more info go to www.surreyheath.gov.uk/walks

www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 25

surrey heath

Town Partnership Grants Are you involved with a scout or guiding group, sporting or musical club, or youth organisation in Surrey Heath? The Borough is twinned with Sucyen-Brie, France and BietigheimBissingen, Germany, and each year the Council makes funds available for Town Partnerships activity for young people under the age of 25. Grants are available to individuals and non-statutory, not for profit groups/organisations who provide a service to the local or the wider community associated with advancing the objectives of Town Partnerships with either town. There is no maximum grant threshold, however, as a guide it is unlikely that grants in excess of £1,000 will be made. Grants are available for one-off type costs. In assessing the grant, the Council will give consideration to the amount of funding being raised/sought from other sources, the number of young people being assisted and the wider benefit to the community over time.

Heritage services Museum Consultation Surrey Heath Museum is currently consulting with the local community on how the museum service is run, to engage opinions on the exhibition, events, outreach and research services offered. The consultation runs until the end of the year - please drop into the Museum or Heritage Gallery in The Square, Camberley, fill in a paper form or go online to give your views www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ museumconsultation. Current exhibition: Storetastic! Until 22 Dec

of the ‘Hug a Milestone’ campaign the Museum ran last year - raising the profile of these ‘signposts’ to the past. A huge thank you to both gentlemen. Paddock Wood Blue Plaque

Would your organisation benefit from such a grant? Download the application form www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ townpartnershipgrants

Get social!

Tim Dodds and Reg Davies with Mayor Cllr Valerie White and Cllr Josephine Hawkins

Marvellous Milestones You may have noticed the milestones along the A30 and A325 looking wonderful - having been cleaned and painted by two Museum volunteers, Reg Davies and Tim Dodds. It is a continuation

26 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk

The Museum worked with Pippa Anderson and Paddock Wood Residents Association to install a blue plaque on the former Paddock Wood Girl’s Finishing School and Second World War Free French Recuperation Hospital in Lightwater. The plaque, in memory of Rosette Savill, was unveiled by the Mayor of Surrey Heath, Cllr Valerie White, with former pupils, staff and local residents in attendance.