heathscene great place | great community | great future winter 2015
It’s panto time at Camberley Theatre! Let the show begin
New look Camberley Theatre Christmas waste collection dates Events for your diary
6
Message from the
Christmas in Camberley
Chief Executive
Getting ready for the festive season
14
An important focus of our work over the past ten years or so has been to explore and develop ways to deliver our services more efficiently. Advancements in technology have hastened this process and in recent years we have been able to implement new systems which save money but, more importantly, improve customer service.
Recycling
Know your Christmas collections
15-17
New at Camberley Theatre
Nowhere has this been more apparent than the increased ability to deliver services digitally and since we launched our first website back in the early 2000s, accessing council services online has increased exponentially.
What’s coming up soon
22
The advent of the smartphone and other mobile devices has meant that more and more of you now require quick and responsive access to our services on the move - functionality that our old website just didn’t possess.
Surrey Heath Sports Awards
Who are the 2015 winners?
Copywriting by Ian Macey, Joanne Atkinson, and Daniel Harrison, 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.
Promote your business with Surrey Heath Borough Council
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
On page 5 you can find out more about our brand new website which is not only designed to be quick, responsive and accessible - but also costs a lot less than our old site to develop and maintain. Now that’s what I call a “win-win situation”. However, we continue to provide the human touch in our contact centre for those that need it - and on page 19 you can read about the latest addition to the ever growing list of partners currently using Surrey Heath House as their base. Finally, as this is the last Heathscene of 2015, I’d like to take this opportunity to wish all Surrey Heath residents and businesses a merry Christmas and a happy New Year! Karen Whelan Chief Executive
www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 3
health
Spotlight -
health and wellbeing Surrey Heath is one of the best places to live in the country in terms of health and wellbeing and that’s official! Heathscene caught up with Borough and County Councillor Bill Chapman to find out why. What is your personal connection to health care in Surrey Heath? I’ve lived in Surrey Heath for over 30 years and have been registered with a Camberley GP surgery for all of that time. Members of my family were born in Frimley Park Hospital and I personally have received great treatment in all our local hospitals. Can you tell us more about your roles? I have served as a Borough Councillor for St Paul’s Ward for 12 years and served on the Council of Governors for Frimley Park for approximately nine years. I’ve been a County Councillor for six years and have served on the Surrey Health Scrutiny Committee for all of that time, becoming the Chairman just over two years ago.
to hold health and social services to account on behalf of residents. We concentrate on ensuring that residents are involved in the changes to health services and that changes will produce improvements - as well as being on the lookout for any financial deficit. How successful have Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCG) been on a local level? CCG areas are based on the configuration of member GP Practices. The areas covered by Surrey Heath Borough Council and Surrey Heath CCG are almost the same, but the latter includes the population of Ash Vale surgery. The east of the borough is covered by the North West Surrey CCG. Surrey Heath CCG is one of the smallest in England, which allows it to move nimbly in local matters and to join with others when needing to deal with larger matters.
What is the purpose of the Health Scrutiny Committee?
What is your view on Frimley Park Hospital in terms of quality of service?
The Government requires Surrey County Council to operate a Health Scrutiny Committee (HSC)
The Hospital was one of the first to be inspected in the more intense Care Quality Commission Inspection
4 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk
Regime and remains one of only two in the country to receive the top ‘Outstanding’ marking so can be fairly described as probably the best in England. How successful are the various agencies that serve Surrey Heath in working together to improve health and wellbeing? Improved partnership working has already produced tangible benefits for residents of Surrey Heath with Integrated Care Teams of health and social workers providing joined-up care to support people to remain in their communities and minimise the need for hospital admissions. Can you describe what makes Surrey Heath such a great place to live? We are fortunate in having communities that support each other and residents who understand the importance of healthy lifestyles, as well as a range of providers that deliver excellent health and community services. This includes Surrey Heath Borough Council which provides Meals at Home, Dial-A-Ride and Community Alarms; Surrey Police who help to keep Surrey the safest county in England, as well as extended GP surgery hours (8am to 8pm, 5 days per week), to name just a few.
council
All-new
website launched Surrey Heath’s website has been given a major overhaul with a brand new look and feel. www.surreyheath.gov.uk has been re-designed to give users access to a wide-range of online services, faster and easier, and more accessible when on the go. Focusing on the customer, the site is responsive, which means it adapts to the device it’s being viewed on so works just as well on your smart phone or tablet as it does on a PC. The new-look website has been created using free open source software, massively reducing costs and avoiding the council needing to commit to one supplier. Surrey Heath is the first local authority in Surrey to go down this route.
Louise Livingston, Executive Head Corporate (Interim) said: “In making the new design simpler, content has been reviewed and the number of pages reduced to improve the customer experience. “The focus of the new site is on our residents and local businesses so that they can find information easier and apply for the services they need. The website can be viewed on mobile devices meaning that customers can use our web services while on the move, 24/7.” Don’t forget…. You can make online payments using the website’s 24 hour secure
internet payments service. Online payments can be made for a variety of services such as: • Business Rates • Building Control • Business Directory Renewals / Subscriptions • Council tax • Land Charges Search Fees Sign up for paperless Residents and businesses in Surrey Heath can now register to receive their Council Tax and Business Rate bills via email. The e-Billing arrangement provides an easy and convenient way to view your bill wherever you like and lessen your paper mail, while reducing council costs spent on paperwork and postage. To sign up, go to www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ counciltax (for Council Tax) or www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ businessrates (for Business Rates). Once registered, you’ll receive any future bills as PDF attachments in an email.
www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 5
camberley
It’s sometimes easy to forget that when it comes to Christmas, Camberley has so much to offer.
Christmas
in Camberley ticks every box
Parking With three multi-storey car parks in the town centre, there’s always plenty of parking - and with both Main Square and Knoll Road being ticketless, it’s become even easier. Frequent users of the town can also pre-pay for their parking in advance to save even more time. Find out how to register here: www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ prepay. In addition there’s also free parking from 3pm on late night shopping Thursdays (see below for more info).
traders - you might need more time to shop. Every Thursday from 19 November is late night shopping with free parking in Main Square, Knoll Road and The Atrium car parks for cars arriving after 3pm.
Late night shopping With a multitude of top high street names and fantastic independent
Celebrating Whether it’s the office party or catching up with friends,
See the range of shops on offer here: www.collectivelycamberley. co.uk/shopping
6 I Heathscene I www.collectivelycamberley.co.uk
Camberley has an excellent range of places to eat, drink and be merry this Christmas. Packed with all the top national restaurant names as well as excellent quality bars and pubs, finding the perfect place to celebrate Christmas this year will not be a problem. See the range of places to eat and drink here: www.collectivelycamberley. co.uk/food
Entertainment From cinema to 10 pin bowling Camberley has loads on offer to keep the whole family entertained this Christmas including this year’s magical pantomime Aladdin at Camberley Theatre until 3 January. Book your tickets here: www.camberleytheatre.biz
parking
prePAY parking comes to Camberley
Car park users, whether for business or leisure, can now register for an account which enables them to enter and exit the car parks without having to pay at a pay station. By topping up their online account using a credit or debit card, the new system lets users pay for their parking automatically, avoiding the need to carry cash, or queue to pay on exit. The new prePAY system aims to make parking easier
and reduce congestion around Camberley Town Centre. Leigh Thornton, Executive Head of Business for Surrey Heath Borough Council, said: “The new technology is about how we can make the whole experience of visiting Camberley even better for our customers.” Operating in Camberley’s Main Square and Knoll Road multistorey car parks, prePAY offers a fully manageable online account,
parking
Surrey Heath Borough Council has introduced a new online prePAY system in its multi-storey car parks. enabling customers to view their transactions, as well as receive topup notifications via email and txt. An added benefit of the prePAY service is that in the future, the council will be able to offer personalised loyalty bonuses or parking promotions to users.
Leigh Thornton added: “We’re really excited to be offering this new solution, making it a lot easier for residents, visitors and businesses to use the parking facilities.” Car Park Spaces Live
To further improve the experience for those looking to park in Camberley Town Centre, Surrey Heath has also launched a new online service, Car Park Spaces Live. This web page updates every 10 minutes to show how many spaces are available in the car parks.
With these new improvements, users can now see where a space is available and enter and exit the car park without the need to pay at a pay station. For more information go to www.surreyheath.gov.uk/
www.surreyheath.gov.uk/parking I Heathscene I 7
leisure
Fantastic Frimley Lodge Live!
More than 3,000 people enjoyed the amazing music, atmosphere, food and weather at Frimley Lodge Live this year. On Saturday the event was opened by Battle of the Bands winner, Lazarus, followed by a celebration of 80s rock and reggae music, with tributes to legendary bands Queen, U2, Bon Jovi and Bob Marley.
Following on from the success of last year’s event, this year’s music festival, in the beautiful setting of a sunny Frimley Lodge Park, was even bigger and even better!
Sunday saw fans of the Rat Pack era treated to the ultimate swing tribute to legends including Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, and modern stars like Michael Bublé. It was perfect picnic weather, with a great variety of food, drinks and stalls on offer. Younger visitors enjoyed inflatable activities and face painting. Executive Head of Business Leigh Thornton said: “Thousands of families and friends came together to enjoy great music, great food and great atmosphere in a fantastic setting. “We’re already looking forward to next year !”
8 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk
Green Flag for Frimley Lodge Park Frimley Lodge Park has won a prestigious Green Flag Award for the 15th year running, officially recognising it as one of the very best in the UK. The 24-hectare park attracts many visitors with its picnic areas, Pistachios in the Park café, pitch and putt course, children’s playgrounds, trim trail, miniature railway and barbecue and private hire areas. Other facilities include the recently-opened 3G all-weather football pitch, and traditional football and cricket pitches. The Green Flag Awards Scheme is run by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy. For more information visit www.surreyheath.gov.uk/flp
leisure
Park life Natural Christmas Decorations Wednesday 2 December, 4.30 - 6.30pm & Saturday 5 December, 11am -1pm Frimley Lodge Park Young people aged 7-12 can have a go at making Christmas decorations using natural products. Places limited so pre-booking is essential. £5 per person. For more information contact Kate Turner: email cgp@live.co.uk mobile 07500 087689 or visit Facebook and search for ‘Flourish Garden’. For more information on our events programme, visit www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ leisure or call 01276 707338.
Candlelit Carols in the Park Friday 11 December Refreshments available from 5:30pm, carols 6 - 7pm Welcome the start of the Christmas season with carols in Frimley Lodge Park led by the Surrey Heath Singers. This event is free but candles and refreshments will be available to purchase.
Canal Walk Wednesday 16 December, 10am Join us for a leisurely stroll along the Basingstoke Canal. Follow the popular and peaceful canal towpath looking for wildlife along the way. This walk is between three and four miles (2hrs). Bring suitable clothing and footwear. Meet at 10am outside Pistachios in the Park café, Frimley Lodge Park.
www.surreyheath.gov.uk/leisure I Heathscene I 9
council
Community groups
benefit from grant awards Did you know Surrey Heath runs a scheme offering local not-for-profit organisations or groups the opportunity to receive funding of up to £25,000? The council’s Community Fund Grant Scheme provides grants to assist with the delivery of community projects. The council has already awarded a number of grants in 2015: Camberley Judo Club was awarded £17,500 towards the cost of adding a new strength and conditioning gym to the existing facilities at Deer Rock Road. The club, which offers all levels of Judo coaching from young local children to elite classes, is one of only seven Performance Pathway Centres which link to the National Centre of Excellence.
The grant is subject to planning permission and landlord consent being granted. Camberley Job Club was awarded a grant of £1,500 towards four new laptops, which will be used to offer a new five-week training course for jobseekers. The Job Club hosts two sessions per week at St Mary’s and High Cross Churches in the town. The grant is awarded subject to a verification of all costs.
Other grants awarded this year: Parity for Disability was awarded £10,500 to purchase furnishings and equipment including kitchen items - for their new centre in Mytchett. Frimley Green Village Hall has received £6,600 to replace their external storage unit and provide new disabled access to the hall with all works now completed during the school summer holidays this year. Camberley Cricket Club has received £5,426 for works completed in June 2015 to demolish their old groundsman’s shed and replace it with a new secure garage to house ground maintenance equipment. Applications to the Community Fund Grant scheme are considered twice a year following deadlines of 30 June and 31 December. Do you know a group who could benefit? Full details of the scheme can be found at www.surreyheath.gov. uk/communityfundgrants.
10 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk
council
Surrey Heath continues to perform
Despite the ongoing financial pressure to work more and more efficiently, Surrey Heath Borough Council continues to be a high performing council by hitting its annual targets and delivering quality services to residents. Camberley Town Centre
New homes
In the last year a number of key strategies and plans to support the ongoing improvements to Camberley were adopted, including the Camberley Town Centre Area Action Plan, Public Realm Strategy and Town Centre Management Strategy. These key documents are necessary in the delivery of a redeveloped town centre which remains the council’s number one priority.
Surrey Heath has entered into an agreement with Bracknell Forest Council which will free up new recreation space in the area and ease the pressure of new housing on the Thames Basin Heath Special Protection Area.
Waste and Recycling Surrey Heath has agreed the specification for a new joint waste collection contract with four other Surrey councils which will lead to considerable savings and a more efficient service for residents.
Consultation with residents and business The Borough Council went out into the community with two “Spotlight on Public Services” events which gave residents of Windlesham parish and Bisley and West End the opportunity to give their views on services in their area. Both were very well received and generated a great deal of useful feedback for the Surrey Heath Partnership to consider and develop.
Consultation with local business was carried out via two very successful Business Breakfast events, the second of which incorporated the hugely popular Surrey Heath Business Awards. Hitting our targets In addition to the above successes: • We have determined 100% of major planning applications within the target timescale • We have carried out 100% of land searches within the required three working days • 98% of customers felt that the Contact Centre Service was good or excellent • We continued to have the highest dry recycling rate in the country • We have exceeded our target of approved planning permission for much needed new homes by 63% • We have also exceeded the target number of families worked with within the Family Support Programme by 148. View the full End of Year Performance Report at www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ performance-management
www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 11
health
Stay well this winter
• Do you have breathing problems? • Are you over 65? • Do you have young children? • Are you a carer? Stay safe this winter because breathing in cold air increases the danger of catching colds, flu and serious chest infections. NHS Surrey Heath Clinical Commissioning Group is backing a national campaign to help people stay well when the weather gets cold. • Make sure you get the flu jab • Keep your rooms warm at least 18º Celsius (65º Farenheit) - if you can • Make sure you get your prescription medicines before the holidays start on December 24 • If you do start to feel unwell, even if it’s just
a cough or a cold, get advice and help from your pharmacist quickly before it becomes more serious • Look out for other people who may need a bit of extra help over winter.
falls by stocking up on food and medicines so they do not need go out when it is icy and avoid A&E except for emergencies by calling NHS 111.”
Dr Andy Brooks, Chief Officer of the CCG who is a GP in Camberley, said: “The flu jab is free for people aged over 65, those with long term medical conditions, carers who live with the person they care for and for young children aged two, three or four. Dr Brooks added: “People can also ‘self-care’ by using over-the-counter medicines and pharmacies, avoid
h e a l t h”
“
It’s very important that people who have long-term conditions, seek medical advice quickly, so that minor illnesses do not get so bad they need to go into hospital. www.nhs.uk/staywell I Heathscene I 13
recycling
Christmas Collection dates
Your collection day will change over the Christmas period. Please ensure that you check your revised collection dates shown below and look out for your collection calendar bin hanger that will be delivered during November. Week Commencing 21st December Normal Collection day Monday 21st Tuesday 22nd Wednesday 23rd Thursday 24th Friday 25th (Christmas Day)
Revised Collection day collection as normal collection as normal collection as normal collection as normal collection Monday 28th
Week Commencing 28th December Normal Collection day Monday 28th Tuesday 29th Wednesday 30th Thursday 31st Friday 1st (New Year’s Day)
Revised Collection day collection Tuesday 29th collection Wednesday 30th collection Thursday 31st collection Saturday 2nd collection Monday 4th
Week Commencing 4th January Normal Collection day Monday 4th Tuesday 5th Wednesday 6th Thursday 7th Friday 8th
Revised Collection day collection Tuesday 5th collection Wednesday 6th collection Thursday 7th collection Friday 8th collection Saturday 9th
To check what you can recycle visit www.surreyheath.gov.uk/recycling If you are unsure about your collection day, you can use the My Surrey Heath search facility. My Surrey Heath can be found on our homepage www.surreyheath.gov.uk
Visit www.surreyheath.gov.uk\recycling or call 01276 707690 14 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/recycling
Plastics from every room in the house can be recycled Did you know that if you recycle your plastic pots, tubs, trays and bottles, they could be reborn as new items like furniture, children’s toys, a football shirt or even another bottle. Everyone in Surrey can recycle plastics from each room in the house. That includes yoghurt pots, margarine tubs, fruit or veg trays and every type of plastic bottle. Whether the bottle contained drinks, shampoo, bleach, cooking oil or ketchup, it can be recycled and turned into a great new product. Only 27 per cent of plastics are currently recycled in Surrey. The rest are thrown away, which is bad for the planet and expensive for the taxpayer. In fact, it would save taxpayers more than £200,000 a year in waste disposal charges if every adult in Surrey recycled just one extra plastic bottle a week. To find out how you can recycle plastics where you live, contact your district or borough council or visit recycleforsurrey.org.uk
camberley theatre
New
at Camberley Theatre It’s all change at Camberley Theatre this autumn, with a new-look bar and bigger names than ever before! The popular town centre theatre will be hosting international stars from the world of classical music such as Craig Ogden and pianist Ji Lui. Drama makes a return to the borough with Shakespeare’s Globe On Tour topping the bill, not to mention the brilliant live broadcasts from the National Theatre - so there’s no need for that long journey to the Southbank anymore.
General Sir Mike Jackson and Ann Widdecombe.
The ‘Audience with…’ series of talks features unmissable evenings in the company of
The new-look bar is now open 5-11pm Tuesday to Saturday offering cocktails, locally brewed craft ales and a brand new menu of continental style bites - the perfect atmosphere in which to relax after that hard day at the office. The growing theatre club membership offers some great deals such as free parking and discounts on tickets and bar prices. There’s also a special season ticket offer for the classical music programme, where you can see four superb concerts for the price of three. For info on all this and more, call the theatre box office on 01276 707600 or visit www.camberleytheatre.biz
www.camberleytheatre.biz I Heathscene I 15
camberley theatre
Make all
e n e c s h t a e h er! - Ticket Off
to get tickets athscene2015 he e od 2015) C n ecember 15, Enter Coupo sed before D s 19-27 December 2015. ha rc pu f (i on show for £13* *selected dates
able
only. Not avail
iz
rleytheatre.b
www.cambe
your Christmas wishes come true This year Camberley Theatre presents a brand new interpretation of the classic pantomime, Aladdin. When the evil Abanazar pays a visit to the Twankey family laundry, Aladdin’s life will change forever! We caught up with Kristian Cunningham, who stars as Aladdin, about the show: Join all the cast on a magical carpet ride adventure, full of fun, laughs and audience interaction. Mark Slowey returns to Camberley by popular demand as the wonderfully wacky pantomime dame, Widow Twankey.
What are you looking forward to most? I cannot wait to get on my magic carpet. I’m so excited to be taking part in my first pantomime! Why should we come and see Aladdin? The cast are all so talented and there are some great characters in the show. I can’t wait to get on stage and have fun with them and the audience! Plus who doesn’t want to see a magic flying carpet on stage?! Tell us about the character of Aladdin. He’s a true hero and does everything he can to make people happy. Once he’s set on something, he doesn’t give up until he gets what he wants much like myself! Who are you looking forward to most? All the cast are great, but Kieran McGinn who plays the Genie is going to make the show really fun. I can’t wait to work with Mark Slowey to bring his ideas to life.
16 I Heathscene I www.camberleytheatre.biz
What are your first impressions of Camberley Theatre? It’s really cosy and intimate and the perfect setting for Aladdin’s journey. The audience are really going to feel a part of the show. Why do you love panto? Everyone is a big kid and loves a pantomime! It’s a part of my Christmas tradition! In our show, there’s lots of humour for all ages and did I mention the magic carpet!? Aladdin runs from Monday 7 December - Sunday 3 January 2016 and tickets are on sale now. To book tickets go to www.camberleytheatre.biz or call 01276 707600.
Sponsored by:
camberley theatre
BBC Big Band
Shakespeare Untold
Coming up in 2016…
Pasha Kovalev
Next year will see a host of internationally recognised artists and performers coming to Camberley as the theatre celebrates its 50th anniversary. Rick Wakeman, Toyah, Claire Teal, Gareth Gates, the BBC Big Band, Anita Harris and Jay Rayner all feature.
For fans of rock music, Letz Zep, the Kast-off Kinks, Dr Feelgood and Eddie and the Hot Rods are not to be missed.
Meanwhile comedians Brian Conley, Chris Ramsey, Alun Cochrane and Russell Howard are scheduled to complement the monthly Comedy Club.
Meanwhile the theatre’s second studio venue is being put to more use than ever, featuring open mic nights and local bands, as well as concerts by guitarists John Mills and John Etheridge.
From the world of Strictly Come Dancing, the ever popular Pasha Kovalev makes a welcome return, with other Strictly regulars Ian Waite and Natalie Lowe also making an appearance, while the dazzling Vienna Touring Ballet perform their beautiful version of the evergreen Swan Lake.
Alun Cochrane
As ever, the Camberley Theatre is available for weddings, conferences and meetings, plus a brand new range of themed children’s parties. More details on the wide variety of performances and events can be found at www.camberleytheatre.biz
Craig Ogden
www.camberleytheatre.biz I Heathscene I 17
For blind, track & pole technical fitting services see advert on page 23
council
Jobcentre Plus relocates in Surrey Heath Jobcentre Plus has moved into a new permanent home in the council office at Knoll Road, Camberley. The front line Jobcentre Plus services are relocating from their old site in London Road, Camberley. Surrey Heath’s Contact Centre has been adapted to provide suitable space for the existing Police front desk, freeing up the area to the left of the council reception to house the Jobcentre Plus team. Alterations to the layout have provided new interview and staff rooms. Jobcentre Plus District Manager, John Bowdery, said: “The relocation of Camberley Jobcentre Plus
represents a significant enhancement to the service we provide, combining multiple Government services in one location to improve the experience for service users. The move is designed to help ensure we will continue to deliver an efficient public service in Surrey Heath alongside our partners in local government.” Executive portfolio holder for transformation at Surrey Heath Borough Council, Cllr Colin Dougan, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Jobcentre Plus into Surrey Heath House, making a strong and continuing presence of local services
being located closer together.” “Sharing buildings with partner organisations is one of the initiatives being taken to make accessing public services more convenient while strengthening partnership working and reducing costs to the taxpayer.” The Jobcentre Plus service at Surrey Heath House will operate in line with its existing office opening times. Services under one roof Sharing the Surrey Heath House offices will mean both the council and Jobcentre Plus will make efficiencies, saving costs to the taxpayer. Around half of Surrey Heath House is currently used by local public services other than the council. Having a wide-range of public services available under one roof enhances convenience for residents, creating a ‘onestop shop’ Surrey Police Safer Neighbourhood Team moved in 2011. Surrey Heath Clinical Commissioning Group moved in 2011. Surrey County Council Adult Social Care moved in 2012. Jobcentre Plus arrived in 2015.
www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ I Heathscene I 19
enforcement
Fly-tipping near Gracious Pond, Chobham
Responding to residents’ concerns about flytipping in the area, Surrey Heath is introducing a dedicated resource to tackle the problem. Fly-tipping is the illegal dumping of rubbish such as builders’ rubble, garden waste and mixed household waste. A new Counter Fraud and Corporate Enforcement team will investigate local fly-tipping incidents with the aim of securing prosecutions against offenders. The council has launched an appeal page on its new website and is offering a financial award of up to £500 for information that leads to a successful prosecution. The new Counter Fraud and Corporate Enforcement team will also carry out enforcement checks across a raft of areas including dog fouling, littering and abandoned vehicles. Residents are reminded of their duty to prevent the illegal fly-tipping of rubbish that might come from
500
reward for fly-tipping tip-offs
their homes. By law, residents are legally responsible for any waste leaving their property, including from builders or gardeners they employ to carry out work. Julia Greenfield, Surrey Heath’s Audit, Counter Fraud and Corporate Enforcement Manager said: “It’s up to householders who are having work done such as double glazing, new kitchens and bathrooms to check that the contractor they appoint to dispose of rubbish from their home, including building and garden waste, has a trade waste carrier’s licence.” “If they don’t have this licence, they are not legally entitled to remove your rubbish.” Surrey Heath’s portfolio holder for community Councillor Vivienne Chapman said: “We are fortunate to have so many areas of
20 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/flytipping
outstanding natural beauty in Surrey Heath and it’s vital that we all work together to help preserve them.” If you have any information that could lead to identifying fly-tippers, please contact the council on 01276 707100 or visit www. surreyheath.gov.uk/flytipping
campaign
Surrey-wide
campaign urges more people to report tenancy fraud Across Surrey, the Surrey Counter Fraud Partnership (SCFP) is working hard to investigate fraudulent use of housing. The types of fraud include illegal sub-letting, abandonment of properties, false homelessness and housing applications, as well as Right to Buy fraud. This autumn, Surrey Heath Borough Council, Accent Group and the SCFP have teamed up to launch a new publicity campaign ‘Don’t stop his family having a home!’ The campaign asks for residents’ help by reporting any suspicions they may have about fraudulent tenancy activity and allowing those in real need to occupy available homes.
Councillor Richard Brooks, Portfolio Holder for Finance said: “Social Housing is a valuable asset which must be protected. At Surrey Heath we currently have 653 families and individuals on the waiting list for accommodation and 56 more in temporary accommodation which includes bed and breakfast. We are appealing to the public to give us information
that could lead to a property being recovered and given to those with a genuine need. “Social Housing should be used to help those who need it most, not misused by fraudsters making money at all of our expense.” Accent’s Regional Housing Director Robert Mills said: “Accent are pleased to be supporting this campaign. Tenancy fraud is a serious matter, and can deprive someone else of a much needed home. It is important we make best use of the limited housing we have in Surrey Heath. It is neighbours who are often well placed to notice anything unusual and, if anyone has any suspicions about who is living in a property or possible fraud, they should report it.” Anyone with information or suspicions of tenancy fraud can call the Surrey Heath Borough Council Confidential Counter Fraud & Corporate Enforcement Hotline on 01276 707376, or report it on line at www.surreyheath.gov. uk/report-suspected-fraud
www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 21
leisure
Sporting success on show
The Surrey Heath Sports Awards celebrated the best in local sporting achievement last month with a special ceremony at Camberley Theatre. Organised by Surrey Heath Borough Council, the awards honour people from across the borough who have excelled in their sport, exceeded personal targets or made a meaningful impact on the local community. Around 50 nominations were whittled down to a short-list of just three finalists per category before winners were selected by the Surrey Heath Sports Council. Award Winners: Young Sports Team of the Year Camberley Rugby U13 B Team
Club of the Year Farnborough Fins
Sports Personality Frazer Chamberlain
Young Volunteer of the Year Ebonnie Bridges
Outstanding Service to Sport Alan Wildsmith
Disability Sport Award - Kate Seal
‘Special Thanks’ Award Grant Simmons
Surrey Youth Games ‘Performance of the Games’ - Lucy Theobald Surrey Youth Games ‘Coach of the Games’ - David Gill Coach of the Year Shannon Warner Young Sports Personality Morgan Lake
For photos and videos of the event, please visit www.surreyheath. gov.uk/sportsawards Special thanks to our generous sponsors Specsavers, Places for People, Surrey Playing Fields, Active Surrey, Complete Coaching and 96.4 Eagle Radio.
Financial support for sports clubs Surrey Heath Borough Council recognises the crucial role that sport and physical activity play in maintaining the health and wellbeing of our community.
Regular exercise can reduce the risk of many chronic conditions including coronary heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, cancer and obesity, while also greatly improving psychological health. Local sports clubs that are registered as Community Amateur
22 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/leisure
Sports Clubs are entitled to an automatic 80% discount from any business rates payable, with the remainder topped up by Surrey Heath Borough Council. Call 01276 707136 or visit www. surreyheath.gov.uk/raterelief for more information.
elections
Act now to secure your vote The Police and Crime Commissioner elections will be taking place on Thursday 5 May 2016 and the council is urging residents to make sure they are registered to vote. During the summer all households in Surrey Heath will have received a form asking residents to check whether the information that appears on the electoral register for those living at their address is correct.
your new address, even if you pay council tax.
This is particularly important if you have moved home recently. You need to make sure that you’re registered, or you might not be able to vote on the 5th May. When you move, you’re not automatically registered at
• Fill in your name, address, date of birth and a few other details. You’ll also need your National Insurance number, which can be found on your National Insurance card, or in official paperwork such as payslips, or letters about benefits or tax credits.
Registering is quick and simple. All you have to do is: • Go to: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
• Look out for confirmation from your local electoral registration staff to say you’re registered. Your vote sends a powerful message, please don’t waste it…it counts! If you don’t have access to the internet or would prefer not to use it, please contact the Electoral Registration Office on 01276 707165 or e-mail: vote@surreyheath.gov.uk
Changes to flooding reporting The way that flooding is reported has changed. The agency you contact will depend on the type of area affected. To find out more and for advice on being prepared go to: www.surreyheath.gov. uk/environment 24 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/council
health
Wellbeing Centre
officially opened
Secretary of State for Justice and Surrey Heath MP Michael Gove officially opened the Wellbeing Centre at the Windle Valley Day Centre in Bagshot. The Wellbeing Centre provides newly-built facilities, catering for those suffering from memory loss and dementia, and their carers.
Chief Executive Karen Whelan hailed the centre as a wonderful addition to the existing facilities, and a hub for local charities and voluntary groups, while Surrey County Council’s Chris Esson added the Wellbeing Centre would help in moving the facility into the future.
Opening the new centre in July alongside Surrey Heath Mayor Joanne Potter, Mr Gove thanked the Surrey Heath Borough Council and Surrey County Council teams for their hard work and passion in ensuring the project came to fruition.
A new purpose built community garden was also opened at the centre in October.
He also paid tribute to the tireless, often unsung efforts of the families and friends of those affected by dementia and associated problems.
The Memory Garden was built by Surrey Heath Borough Council’s Greenspace team and community gardener Kate Turner.
The garden was funded by a £18,000 prize from key safe company Supra, and a further £2,500 from a community fund courtesy of Affinity Water. The garden features a range of plants with sensory qualities such as scent, foliage and texture. Wellbeing Centres are local hubs of information and support services relating to memory loss, dementia and associated problems. They are open to anyone, carers or the cared-for. To find out more about Windle Valley Day Centre and other Community Services go to www.surreyheath.gov.uk/ communityservices or call 01276 707100.
26 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk/communityservices
council
Two
Honorary Alderman titles awarded Surrey Heath Borough Council has bestowed one of the highest honours in its gift by conferring two former borough councillors as Honorary Aldermen for their outstanding service and dedication to Surrey Heath. Keith Bush and Alan Whittart were conferred with the title of Honorary Alderman at an extraordinary full council meeting in July 2015. Cllr Moira Gibson, Leader of the council said: “With nearly 40 years of service between them, both Keith and Alan have contributed greatly to the work of the council through their commitment, enthusiasm and vast experience, undertaking the various roles of committee members, as well as both having served in the highest office of Mayor of Surrey Heath.” “They have served the council and people of Surrey Heath with enormous dedication and the council agreed that they each be honoured with the title of Honorary Alderman.” Keith Bush was first elected as borough councillor in 1999 representing West End ward. He served in numerous roles, particularly as Mayor of Surrey Heath in 2006/07, Deputy Mayor in 2005/06 and as a member of the Executive, holding various portfolios including Leisure, Corporate,
Planning and Regulatory. Alan Whittart served as borough councillor for Frimley Green Ward since 1993. As well as holding the office of Mayor of Surrey Heath in 2008/09, he was Deputy Mayor 2007/08 and the council’s representative on numerous external groups including the Surrey Heath Sports Council from 1998 to 2015 and the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership between 2005 and 2015.
a Ward Councillor immensely. Dealing with residents’ queries and concerns was very rewarding. I see becoming an Honorary Alderman as an opportunity to maintain my direct contact with the council in the future and where appropriate, civic functions as a representative of the council.”
At the ceremony the newly conferred Honorary Aldermen were presented with a special scroll and bespoke pendant badge of office by the current Mayor of Surrey Heath, Cllr Joanne Potter. Keith said: “I’m proud to have represented Surrey Heath residents not only as a mayor but also as an executive member. Being elected by residents of West End six times to be their representative is an honour in itself! “I aim to continue to help promote and support Surrey Heath.” Alan added: “I enjoyed representing Frimley Green as www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 27
business
Businesses network over breakfast
Representatives from over 80 local businesses joined council officers and councillors in September for Surrey Heath Borough Council’s Business Breakfast meeting. Held twice a year at Camberley Theatre, the meeting gives Surrey Heath businesses the chance to network, find out new information and listen to guest speakers. Council Leader Cllr Moira Gibson kicked off the event by introducing a new #LoveCamberley video showcasing this summer’s Camberley Car Show and the abundance of visitors it brought to the town centre. The first speaker was Valerie White, borough councillor and Chair of Bagshot Village Association, who underlined the wide range of businesses in Bagshot village and its variety of choice for customers.
Next up was Noamaan Siddiqi from Frazer-Nash Research, whose headquarters are in Mytchett. He gave a fascinating talk on the company’s development of new low-emission and energy efficient vehicles - which includes the ground breaking Metrocab currently being used in the capital. The third and final speaker, Janet Preston from TeenTech Surrey, described the large scale interactive events they hold around the county designed to encourage young people to consider the wide range of career possibilities in science, engineering and technology. Breakfast concluded with a
question and answer session, followed by networking in the conference room which included more than a dozen exhibitors. Cllr Moira Gibson said: “Local businesses always benefit from this event and it continues to go from strength to strength. The presentations were a good mix, embracing technology and showcasing all the great things happening to support business in our borough.” The next Business Breakfast will take place at the Camberley Theatre on Friday 18 March 2016 and businesses interested in attending or exhibiting should visit www. surreyheath.gov.uk/business
www.surreyheath.gov.uk/business I Heathscene I 29
council
With free admission, your Surrey Heath Museum is located on Knoll Road, Camberley and is open Wednesday to Saturday, 11am to 5pm. Full event listings and information can be found on www. surreyheath.gov.uk/ museum or call 01276 707284. Exhibitions Frimley and Camberley Society of Art and Surrey Council Guild of Craftsmen Until 23 December 2016 These two displays will showcase a plethora of local craft and artwork available to buy, all individually hand crafted and/or painted. Surrey Heath 2016 Calendar The theme of this year’s calendar is ‘Villages of Surrey Heath’ to celebrate our area, local heritage and the attractive places in which we live. The calendar features images from the museum’s collection alongside contemporary photographs taken by several members of Windlesham and Camberley Camera Club. It retails at £5 and is available from Surrey Heath
Step into
Surrey Heath Museum
Museum, The Heritage Gallery in The Mall, Camberley or online at www.surreyheath.gov.uk Come and browse the museum shop and discover our new range of unique Christmas gifts, Christmas stocking fillers and hand-crafted silk flower displays. Commemorative Stone honours Victoria Cross recipient As Heathscene went to press, a commemorative paving stone dedicated to Captain Garth Neville Walford (1882 to 1915), Victoria Cross, was due to be laid at London Road memorial in preparation for Remembrance Sunday on 8 November. The unveiling of the paving stone was to form part of the Remembrance Service at St.Michael’s Church and during a Service at the memorial.
30 I Heathscene I www.surreyheath.gov.uk
Garth Neville Walford was born at 5 The Terrace, Yorktown, now in the grounds of RMA Sandhurst. His father was Colonel Neville Walford and mother, Selina Walford. The oldest of three children, he joined the Royal Artillery in 1902. After his senior officers had been killed, he led a successful attack on Seddul Bar Village, Gallipoli; he was killed in action by machine gun fire. Captain Walford is buried at V Beach Cemetery, Gallipoli. He was survived by his wife Elizabeth Walford and two daughters Phyllida and Naomi. The commemorative paving stone is part of a nationwide project by the Department for Communities to honour VC holders within their local communities.
parish news
Parish news Chobham Following many years of absence, after what was meant to be a short term temporary removal, the original lamp has finally been tracked down and returned to the leat at Millbourne Bridge in Chobham. The leat is just one of the unique attractions in this picturesque village at the edge of Surrey Heath. Others include: the Grade 1 listed St Lawrence Church dating back to Norman times; Chobham Common (an area of Special Scientific Interest) with footpaths, bridleways, ponds and dams; a book exchange within a telephone box, a library in what was once a public lavatory, a galleon for children in the recreation ground and 73 listed buildings! With its newly refurbished pubs, all offering excellent menus, many
restaurants, including one recently awarded four rosettes, independent retailers and wonderful footpaths and open spaces, it’s a popular place to visit for walks, shopping, lunch and evenings out. It’s also a popular filming location, with Colin Firth filming his latest film and Call the Midwife using the Village Hall for their new series. If you too are tempted to visit, the village car park has two hours free car parking - with footpaths leading directly from it.
Save the Date - Sunday 12 June 2016. Chobham is holding a street party to celebrate HM the Queen’s 90th Birthday. The West End Boxing Day Walk The village of West End will be holding its annual Boxing Day walk on Saturday 26 December starting from the Tringham Hall car park, Benner Lane, GU24 9JP at 10.30am. The walk of about 2-3 miles passes along the footpaths and common surrounding the village. If you need to walk off the excesses of Christmas please feel free to come along. The route may not be pushchair or wheelchair friendly. For more details contact The West End Village Society www.wevs.org.uk
news Chobham Christmas Extravaganza A late-night shopping extravaganza takes place in Chobham Village on Friday 4 December. Many of the shops will be open late with special offers and festivities. The event will include food tasting, Morris dancing, carols and more!
www.surreyheath.gov.uk I Heathscene I 31