Perspectives - Spring 2009

perspectives March 2009

Recession worries?

You are not on your own See page 5

Make a positive change it doesn’t

what’s on

have to cost a penny

see pull-out

see page 8

news from around the winchester district

Picture shows Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust volunteer workers at Chappett Copse

Customer Service Excellence

Next stages of the Local Development Framework The future of development in the Winchester District is being looked at by the latest round of LDF Reports.

In the last edition of Perspectives we told you about our ambition to achieve the new government Customer Service Excellence standard.

During January two of our key divisions, Customer Service and Landlord Services underwent formal external assessment. As part of the rigorous process the assessors spent time reviewing policies and procedures as well as visiting sheltered accomodation, the Sussex St Hostel and Bishops Waltham Local Office.

Staff had to demonstrate that services were designed around the needs of our customers, that they worked in partnership successfully, that they were trained and consulted, and that customer focus was embedded throughout the Council from the Chief Executive through to frontline staff.

The good news is that both divisions were successfully accredited as working to the Customer Service Excellence Standard. This success is just the beginning as over the next three years every division will go through the process until Winchester City Council is recognised corporately as being a Customer Service Excellence organisation.

Museums Accreditation The City Council’s City Museum has been awarded quality accreditation under the national Visitor Attraction Quality Accreditation Scheme (VAQAS) following a rigorous process including mystery shopping.

The museum is only the third attraction in the district to win the accreditation, the others being Marwell and INTECH.

They consider how the district can meet its housing requirements over the next twenty years, and how to ensure that we retain and diversify jobs, allowing people to live and work locally.

During October, November and December 2008 the Council’s LDF Cabinet considered all of the public consultation received on the issues and options paper. The comments were considered and councillors agreed a series of recommended approaches to be taken forward to the next stage of core strategy preparation.

A preferred options document will be presented to the Council’s LDF Cabinet committee for consideration and debate on 25 March 2009.

This will present the core strategy as a set of policies and objectives to be implemented across the District over the plan period up to 2026.

The Council will then approve this for consultation at its meeting on 22 April 09, with the public consultation taking place during May/June.

For more information and details of the consultation visit www.winchester.gov.uk/LDF

Your council is here TO HELP YOU Struggling with debt? Housing worries? You are not on your own – Winchester City Council is encouraging local residents to seek support and take up the services available to them during the recession to help through these difficult times.

See page 5 for advice on getting through the recession and dealing with possible changes in your circumstances, and page 8 for some ideas of how to get the most from your local area, often for free.

2

perspectives

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k

place survey

Update In the last issue of perspectives we told you about the national Place Survey that was conducted during October to December last year.

This was designed to help local councils and the government understand people’s views and experiences of their local area and local public services. A total of 2,600 survey forms were sent to randomly selected residents in Winchester and thank you to the 1,550 of you that returned them.

You helped us achieve a very impressive response rate of 60%, an improvement of 8% over a similar survey conducted in 2004. The average response rate for all eleven districts in Hampshire was 55%.

Data entry and analysis of the results is now being carried out. This process will take a little while, but it is hoped that the results of the survey will be available on our web site by April. www.winchester.gov.uk/placesurvey

Combined Election

Top Return

in June 2009

In August 2008, canvass forms were sent to over 48,000 properties in the Winchester District.

European Parliamentary and County Council elections will both be taking place on Thursday 4 June 2009 across the whole of the Winchester District.

To vote you will need to have registered at your address by 19 May 2009. Most people will already be registered because they completed an electoral roll form last autumn, but residents who have moved to the District more recently and cannot recall completing a form, should contact the Electoral Services Unit on 01962 848 125 or ereg@winchester.gov.uk Poll cards are sent out about three weeks before the election so if you don’t receive yours by the middle of May, or if you’ve got any queries about the election process, then please contact the Electoral Services Unit.

If you want to apply for a postal vote or change your postal vote details you should do so before 19 May 2009.

Remember, if you have a postal vote you cannot ask for your ballot paper at the polling station.

in Annual Canvass 2008/9

This is for the annual collection of eligible electors’ details that the Council needs in order to publish the revised Register of Electors on 1 December. Once on the Register, you are entitled to vote and it will also help you to obtain credit, open bank accounts, etc.

For the second year running, electors with no changes to their details had the opportunity to register online or by telephone, they could also use this system to opt out of the Edited Register and request a postal vote application form. It proved to be a great success once again, with approximately 30% of registrations being done in this way. Positive feedback was received from many electors who found this to be the easiest method of registering.

Finally, a big thank you to everyone who returned their annual canvass form or registered by telephone or online – you helped us to achieve a 98% return rate and retain our place as one of the top performing Councils in the country for electoral registration.

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k

perspectives

3

Caring for our historic environment Conservation areas enjoy a special level of protection which can be strengthened by the production of full ‘character appraisals’ which clearly set out the special qualities of an area. A long-term programme of work is now being undertaken by our historic environment team to conduct appraisals for every conservation area.

Among the many features that make our parishes so distinctive are the fine buildings, archaeological sites, monuments, trees and great views.

The Council already works with residents to protect these features, often through the planning legislation that led to the designation of 37 conservation areas across the district since the 1970s.

Winchester’s Historic Environment Record goes online.

For the first time, information on archaeological sites and historic buildings recorded in the city of Winchester and the wider district will be made available online.

Winchester City Council’s Historic Environment Team has successfully been awarded a grant from English Heritage to place information from the Winchester Historic Environment Record (HER) onto a national portal, the Heritage Gateway.

The Heritage Gateway allows people to search in one place for images of England and Listed Buildings both locally and from the rest of the country.

Further information on the Heritage Gateway and information already available can be found by accessing www.heritagegateway.org.uk or contact Tracy Matthews, Archaeology Officer on 01962 848 380 or email matthews@winchester.gov.uk

4

perspectives

We are involving local people in researching, recording and refining up to date character appraisals and supporting management plans for all 37 areas.

Next on the list is Crawley, where a public meeting will take place on Monday 20 April at 7.30pm in the village hall.

Views will also be gathered via questionnaires and e-surveys, and through close working with the Parish Council. Contact them to find out more or just turn up on the night.

You can find out more on the Council’s website www.winchester.gov.uk/ConservationAreas

Hampshire Hospitality Awards This quality assessment scheme for restaurants, tea rooms, pubs and cafés and other eateries is spreading rapidly across the county following a pilot in Winchester in 2006.

Eateries across the district that received awards in 2008 are listed on the www.visitwinchester.co.uk.

Awards are given for the use of locally grown produce on their menus, and the overall quality of the dining experience both in terms of service and ambience.

Browse the website to pick one that appeals and see what you think, and perhaps spend some of your holiday this year exploring the district and ending up in these fabulous eateries. The Tourist Information Centre is happy to suggest routes and ideas so either pop in or call 01962 840 500. Happy eating!

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k

Free Internet Access

Winchester City Council is encouraging local residents to seek support and take up the services available to them during the recession. The current economic situation will inevitably have an increasing impact on many households’ ability to meet costs. Any resident finding themselves in difficulty should get advice at an early stage on the steps needed and the options available. Our website www.winchester.gov.uk/recessionadvice has more information, including some money saving tips.

Money and managing debt There are numerous Benefits schemes available.

Winchester City Council offer Housing and Council Tax benefits to those who qualify.

For more information and to see if you are eligible for help, visit www.winchester.gov.uk/benefits or for advice call 01962 848 539. If you cannot get to City Offices in Winchester you can also drop into one of the Local Offices where benefits advice is available.

G

Alresford Local Office Mondays 10am until 1pm.

G

The Bishops Waltham Local Office Wednesdays 10am until 1pm.

Appointments can also be made on 01962 840 222.

The Citizens Advice Bureau is a registered charity designed to help people resolve their legal, financial and other problems by providing free advice. Our local CABs which are supported by grants from the City Council, are available if you are having financial difficulty or simply want advice.

Winchester CAB, The Winchester Centre, 68 St Georges Street, Winchester 01962 848 000 Bishops Waltham CAB, Well House, 2 Brook Street, Bishops Waltham 01489 896 376.

For more information visit the CABs website www.adviceguide.org Fuel bills – grants may be available for residents and landlords to help install energy efficiency measures to reduce costs. Visit www.warmfront.co.uk to find out more.

Work Jobcentre Plus is part of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and offers support to people who want to get into work, and helps employers fill vacancies.

Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.uk to find out more.

Telephone - 0854 6060 234 Textphone - 0845 6055 255

available at Winchester City Council main reception, Winchester City Council Local Offices in Alresford Library, Bishops Waltham CAB and Winchester Discovery

Winchester Jobcentre Plus, City Gate, 1-8 City Road, Winchester Telephone:01962 745 200

Centre

Fareham Jobcentre Plus, Crown Buildings, Civic Way, Fareham Telephone: 01329 24 3700 Careers Advice Direct offers helpful advice on careers and learning. Call 0800 100 900 or visit careersadvice.direct.gov.uk

Housing If you are finding it difficult to pay your mortgage or rent or are facing repossession, the organisations below can help.

The City Council provides a Housing Advice service for people who are homeless or threatened with homelessness.

You can call 01962 840 222 to speak to an advisor.

Council Housing - If you are having housing issues and wish to apply for a council house, contact the City Council for an application form on 01962 840 222 or visit www.winchester.gov.uk/housing Winter Warming Payments - if you are over 60 you are eligible for a winter fuel payment to help with your fuel bills. For more information, call the helpline on 08459 15 15 15 or visit www.thepensionservice.gov.uk/winterfuel

Personal and Family Support Financial pressures can cause stress to both you and your family. Support and advice is available from your Local GP Surgery or The Samaritans, who offer confidential emotional support 24 hours a day.

If you find yourself stressed and needing someone impartial to speak to, call 08457 90 90 90 or email jo@samaritans.org.

You can also talk face-to-face by going to the local branch: 13 Upper High Street, Winchester. Usual opening hours are 9.30am until 10pm.

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k

perspectives

5

what’s on

major events MARCH

JUNE

AUGUST

NOVEMBER

Mayor’s Choice Exhibition: Around the District

See city festivals opposite for city-based festivals this June.

Hampshire Open Studios

Round Table Bonfire and Fireworks Display (Sat 7 Nov)

(Until Sun 22 Mar) Winchester Discovery Centre (see venues opposite)

Grange Park Opera

Speed the Plow by David Manet (Wed 4 – Sun 8 Mar) and Billy Liar (Tues 24 – Sat 28 Mar) For full programme details for the year contact Theatre Royal (see venues opposite)

Hampshire’s Treasures Exhibition (Sat 21 Mar – Sun 10 May) Winchester Discovery Centre (see venues opposite)

Watercress Line Steam Gala

(Wed 3 Jun – Mon 6 Jul) 01962 737 366 info@grangeparkopera.co.uk www.grangeparkopera.co.uk

Cycle Cavalcade & Bike Week Launch (Sat 13 Jun) 07908 880 455 enquiries@winchesterbikeweek.org.uk www.winchesterbikeweek.org.uk

Father’s Day (Sun 21 Jun) Watercress Line (see venues opposite)

(Fri 13 – Sun 15 Mar) and

Mother’s Day

JULY

(Sun 22 Mar) Watercress Line (see venues opposite)

See city festivals opposite for city-based festivals this July.

APRIL

Contemporary Art, Craft and Design Fair

Charlotte’s Web (Tue 7 – Wed 8 Apr) Theatre Royal (see venues opposite)

(Fri 3 – Sun 12 Jul) Winchester Cathedral (see venues opposite)

Day Out with Thomas

Bishop’s Waltham Festival

(Sat 4 – Mon 13 Apr) Watercress Line (see venues opposite)

WW11 Battle Action!

(Sun 12 – Mon 13 Apr) Royal Armouries Fort Nelson 01329 233 734 www.royalarmouries.org.uk

Easter Holiday Activities See www.visitwinchester.co.uk

MAY

(Mon 6 – Sun 12 Jul) www.bishopswalthamfestival.com

(Sun 17 May) chamber@alresford.org www.watercressfestival.org

Alresford Agricultural Show

Making Merry Open Studios

(Sat 5 Sep) 01962 738 748 grangefm@btconnect.com www.alresfordshow.co.uk

Ladybird Make and Do Exhibition (Wed 9 Sep – Sun 4 Oct) Discovery Centre (see venues opposite)

Heritage Open Days (Thu 10 – Sun 13 Sep) 01962 840 500 (Winchester Tourist Information Centre) www.civictrust.org.uk

OCTOBER Hampshire Harvest Weekend (Sat 3 – Sun 4 Oct) Winchester Cathedral (see venues opposite)

(Dates TBC) 01962 840 500 (Winchester Tourist Information Centre) www.visitwinchester.co.uk

Winchester Cathedral Christmas Market (Thu 26 Nov – Sun 13 Dec) Winchester Cathedral (see venues opposite)

Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink (Thu 26 Nov – Sun 3 Jan) Winchester Cathedral (see venues opposite)

DECEMBER Watercress Line Santa Specials

01420 83262 enquiries@jahmusm.org.uk www.jane-austens-housemuseum.org.uk

(Sat 3 – Sun 4 Oct)

Vikings at the City Museum

Christmas Holiday Activities

Winchester Discovery Centre Summer Holiday Events

Open Up, Lighten Up

Alresford Watercress Festival

SEPTEMBER

(Thu 19 Nov) Winchester's Buttercross 4:00pm 01962 840 500 (Winchester Tourist Information Centre) www.wincity.uk.com

(Sat 8 – Sun 16 Aug) Watercress Line (see venues opposite)

(Dates TBC) Watercress Line (see venues opposite)

Winchester Sports Festival

(Sat 2 – Mon 4 May) Winchester Cathedral (see venues opposite)

Christmas Lights Switch On

Tudors at the Westgate

(Thu 23 Jul – Thu 3 Sep) Winchester Discovery Centre (see venues opposite)

Fine Food and Wine Show

Day Out with Thomas

bonfire@winchesterroundtable.co.uk www.winchester-roundtable.org.uk

Jane Austen’s House, Chawton: Bicentenary Event (5 Jul)

See city festivals opposite for information on MAYfest.

(Sat 2 May) Opening of The Winchester Sports Stadium 01962 826 362 www.winchester.ac.uk

(Sat 15 – Sun 30 Aug) 023 8045 3475 wendi.watson@virgin.net www.hampshireopenstudios.org.uk

(24 – 26 Jul) 01962 840 500 (Winchester Tourist Information Centre) www.visitwinchester.co.uk

The Winchester Food & Produce Show 2009 (Sun 26 Jul) 9:30am - 4:00pm Winchester Guildhall (see venues opposite)

(Fri 30 – Sat 31 Oct)

Halloween Horrors at the Westgate (Sat 31 Oct) 01962 869 864 (Westgate) 01962 863 064 (City Museum) See www.winchester.gov.uk

Return of Dr Terror in the Tunnels (Tue 27 – Fri 30 Oct) Royal Armouries Fort Nelson 01329 233 734 www.royalarmouries.org.uk

See www.visitwinchester.co.uk

This is just a selection of the events taking place in Winchester from March this year.

For the most up-to-date information visit www.winchester.gov.uk/events or call Winchester Tourist Information Centre on 01962 840 500.

See www.visitwinchester.co.uk for more harvest and halloween themed events throughout the month plus half term activities.

Summer Holiday Activities See www.visitwinchester.co.uk

Wantage to Winchester Cycle Ride 2009 (Sun 17 May) 01962 867 699 andy@freewheel.plus.com www.hyde900.co.uk

6

perspectives

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k / e v e n t s

regular diary slots

city festivals

Get Fit!

A Little Night Music…

MAYfest

Hampshire Food Festival

Forces Fit: popular outdoor group fitness training delivered by instructors with military training.

Tuesdays and Thursdays 7 – 8pm, Sundays 11am – 12 noon.

07595 960 535 Kerrie@forcesfit.co.uk www.forcesfit.co.uk

Musical talks on the first Friday of each month (ex. Aug) with Winchester Music Society, who gather in The Recital Room of Peter Symonds College of 7:30pm – 9:30pm.

Visitors £3 01962 880 589 libby_neale@yahoo.co.uk

(Fri 15 May – Sat 16 May) Two days of music, song and dance in the streets, pubs and concert venues of Winchester. 07807 084 219 info@winmayfest.co.uk www.winmayfest.co.uk

(Wed 1 Jul – Fri 31 Jul) Hampshire’s food takes centre stage during events at dozens of venues across the county - from farms to town centres and vineyards to hotels 01962 845 999 tim.brock@hants.gov.uk www.hampshirefare.co.uk

Know Your City?

Winchester's official tourist guides offer an ever-changing programme of 1½ hour tours that delve into the stories behind the kings, castles, abbeys, pubs, architectural quirks, street furniture, - even our almostforgotten railway. £4.50 per adult. 01962 840 500 tourism@winchester.gov.uk www.winchestertouristguides.com

Space Lectures A series of space lectures for adults and children aged 11+, followed by a short planetarium show about each month's sky. Lectures on the second Wednesday of each month (ex. Aug) 6:30pm - 8pm.

01962 863 791 htct@intech-uk.com www.intech-uk.com

Time Travel Talks Hampshire Record Office hosts free lunchtime talks and film shows on the last Thursday of each month between 1:15 – 1:45pm, the series brings the archives to life.

01962 846 154 enquiries.archives@hants.gov.uk www3.hants.gov.uk/archives

The Mayor’s Charity Events (Sun 29 Mar – Wed 20 May) The Mayor’s chosen charities benefit from various fund-raising events including The Spring Fair in the Saxon Suite of Winchester Guildhall between 10am – 3pm on Sun 29 March. For further information on the full programme up to Wed 20 May please contact Cllr Read on 023 9225 7565 readm@btinternet.com From 21 May when Cllr Dominic Hiscock becomes Mayor, see www.winchester.gov.uk).

Real Ale Train The popular Real Ale Train departs at 7:20pm from Alton station and returns at 10:34pm after two round trips by steam locomotive to Alresford. Connects with the 10:44pm SWT service to London and other stations. Tickets £10, advance booking essential. 01962 733 810 info@watercressline.co.uk www.watercressonline.co.uk

Winchester Music Club 01962 851 915 mrsjanettelloyd@hotmail.com www.winchestermusicclub.org.uk

Winchester Symphony Orchestra www.winchestersymphony orchestra.org.uk

Winchester Archaeology and Local History (WARG) 01962 867 490 membership@warg.org.uk www.warg.org.uk

Festival of Art & Mind (Fri 26 Jun – Sun 28 Jun/Mon 6 Jul) A three-day series of talks, discussions and performances at Winchester Discovery Centre in June. And see Sir John Tavener's work 'Towards Silence' in Winchester Cathedral on Mon 6 July.

Tickets from venues direct (see facing page) 01962 779 536 garry.kennard@btopenworld.com www.artandmind.org

Winchester Writers’ Conference, Festival and Bookfair

2009 Winchester Festival (Fri 10 Jul – Sun 19 Jul) Festival featuring concerts of choral and chamber music, jazz, literary events, film, drama and children’s activities.

Various venues across the city.

01962 857 240 winchesterfestival@winchestercathedral.org.uk www.winchesterfestival.co.uk

(Mon 29 Jun – Sun 5 Jul) Michael Morpurgo leads a line-up of renowned authors, poets, playwrights and industry specialists offering insights for writers. 01962 827 238 barbara.large@winchester.ac.uk www.writersconference.co.uk

Hat Fair (Thu 2 Jul – Sun 5 Jul) The UK's longest-running festival of street theatre, now in its 34th year, offers three days of fun, entertainment and activities for all the family.

01962 849 841 info@hatfair.co.uk www.hatfair.co.uk

The Chesil Theatre 07527 471 539 info2008@chesiltheatre.org.uk www.chesiltheatre.org.uk

Intech 01962 863 791 htct@intech-uk.com www.intech-uk.com

Meadowside Leisure Centre 01489 577 464 meadowside@winchester.gov.uk www.winchester.gov.uk/meadowside

River Park Leisure Centre 01962 848 700 enquiries@riverparkleisurecentre.co.uk www.riverparkleisurecentre.co.uk

venues Theatre Royal 01962 840 440 boxoffice@theatre-royalwinchester.co.uk www.theatre-royal-winchester.co.uk

University of Winchester 01962 841 515 www.winchester.ac.uk

Watercress Line (Mid Hants Railway) 01962 733 810 info@watercressline.co.uk www.watercressonline.co.uk

Winchester Cathedral 01962 857 200 cathedral.office@winchestercathedral.org.uk www.winchester-cathedral.org.uk

Winchester Discovery Centre

0870 066 4777 www.everymancinema.com

0845 603 5631 winchester.dc.enquiries@hants.gov.uk www.discoverycentres.co.uk/winchester

Tower Arts

Winchester Guildhall

01962 867 986 info@towerarts.co.uk www.towerarts.co.uk

01962 840 820 guildhall@winchester.gov.uk www.winchesterguildhall.co.uk

The Screen Cinema

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k / e v e n t s

perspectives

7

Have you made your New Year's resolution yet?

It’s not too late to

How about getting active by walking and leaving your car at home... or maybe it is time to enjoy the rich culture right on your doorstep... perhaps this is the year to go green and do your bit for the environment. This year could be the one to make a positive change to an aspect of your life. The City Council is involved in a wide variety of activities and initiatives that may spark your interest, the best bit though is that a lot of them are free – some ideas are below but visit www.winchester.gov.uk/beinspired for further inspiration.

Get Active

Go Green

Walk: The Winchester district is an undeniably beautiful part of the country rich in lush landscape and picturesque scenery. Walking is a fantastic exercise which can be as gentle or strenuous as you like, and can be enjoyed by all the family. Why not pack a picnic, strap on your walking boots and discover Winchester from a new perspective. Suggested free tours and trails are available from our website but you can pick up a leaflet from the TIC from as little as £1. Other ideas include getting on your bike, being active for at least 30mins a day, joining one of our leisure centres, or using our sports facilities.

If you are keen to reduce your carbon footprint, consider joining WinACC Winchester Action on Climate Change. It is a group of organisations and citizens seeking to encourage households and organisations in the Winchester district to meet the challenge of climate change and to realise the benefits of low carbon living.

Use the WinACC website to calculate your carbon footprint and then make a pledge to reduce it over the course of the year. You can also buy locally, recycle more, help preserve the countryside and reduce your energy use and costs.

Expand your knowledge Visit the Discovery Centre: The Winchester Discovery Centre combines learning with leisure, boasting a fabulous Library, an exhibition space, performance hall and refreshments area. Why not join and take advantage of the thousands of books, CDs and DVDs available, or just visit the regular fascinating exhibitions at the City Council’s ‘City Space’. Other ideas include Adult education classes and learning about the history of Winchester at the Hampshire Records Office and City Council Museums.

Enjoy Culture The Winchester District is lucky to have a variety of cultural activities on offer all year round. From the Theatre Royal to famous festivals such as the Hat Fair and regular exhibitions and performances.

Winchester Cathedral has many events throughout the year and the Council’s online events calendar www.winchester.gov.uk/events is a great resource for finding things to do for all the family.

8

perspectives

Be involved Volunteer: The Volunteer Centre in Winchester offers information on everything you need to know about volunteering in the Winchester district, for both individuals and organisations.

They can match you up to opportunities that suit your availability and interests. The Volunteer Centre in Winchester and Winchester District Sport and Physical Activity Alliance are working in partnership to establish a physical activity volunteer bank to increase the number of coaches, officials and sports volunteers in the District.

Visit www.volunteercentrewinchester.org.uk.

Other ideas include joining your Parish Council, getting involved in community planning and community groups, and supporting local charities.

You can also get involved with 2012 and 'Live Your Dream'.

Ideas and events can be found on www.winchester.gov.uk/liveyourdream

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k

Passed your Driving Test? Now try the Parking Test!

Changes in the rules of the road happen regularly and can often go unnoticed. If you can identify the following symbols, and answer the questions correctly you should be able to reduce the risk of receiving an unwelcome Penalty Charge Notice.

Q1

What does this sign mean?

A1

(a) No entry (b) No waiting (c) No loading

Q2

What do these yellow lines mean?

A2

The answer is (a) ‘No waiting at any time’.

The main concession to this rule is for disabled ‘Blue badge’ holders, who can park on double or single yellow lines for a limited time period.

A3

The answer is (d). A penalty can now be issued by post under the new legislation of the Traffic Management Act 2004. If a penalty is in the process of being issued it is advisable that the driver waits to be handed the document.

A4

A CPZ is (b) a Controlled Parking Zone. The centre of Winchester is covered by such a zone, and signs showing this are found on all routes into the city. The entry sign indicates the times when waiting is prohibited. The yellow lines within the zone do not normally have yellow plates indicating the times of the prohibition unless the times are different from those shown on the entry sign.

A5

The answer is (a) or (b) Penalties are now issued under a two-tier structure with those being more obstructive to the flow of traffic being set at £70, with lesser contraventions set at £50.

A6

The answer is (d). Most penalties are appealed within the first 14 days to take advantage of the discount period, however this is known as an informal challenge. A formal appeal can be made once a ‘Notice to Owner’ document has been issued, and if rejected, motorists also have an independent adjudication process made available to them.

A7

The answer is (b). Drivers are allowed to park for a maximum of three hours on double yellow lines, if no loading restrictions are in force. Blue badge holders cannot park where they like, as often double yellow lines will also have loading/unloading restrictions in place. Blue badge holders cannot currently park free of charge in our barrier controlled car parks, but can park for free elsewhere.

A8

The answer is (c) or (d). Poor parking means that some spaces cannot be used properly and, if someone has not parked in a bay at all, safety issues need to be considered.

(a) No waiting at any time, (b) No waiting Monday-Saturday, (c) No loading

Q3

A parking ticket can be issued by (a) post, (b) being handed to the driver, (c) being affixed to the vehicle, or (d) all of the above?

Q4

What is a CPZ? (a) Clamping patrol zone (b) Controlled parking zone (c) Civil permit zone

Q5

How much is an ‘on-street’ penalty charge notice in the Winchester District? (a) £50 (b) £70 (c) £90

Q6

How many opportunities do you have to appeal against a penalty? (a) none (b) one (c) two (d) three

Q7

In Winchester and the surrounding districts, can the holder of a disabled ‘blue badge’... (a) park where they like, (b) park for a limited time on double yellow lines, (c) park free in any car park

Q8

Why do we issue penalties if a car is parked ‘out of bay’ in a car park? (a) because we can (b) we have a quota or target to maintain (c) because it has denied another vehicle the right to access the adjoining space (d) for safety reasons.

This symbol means (a) ‘No waiting’ and can be seen upon entry to the High Street Pedestrian Zone in Winchester, along with the words ‘at any time’.

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k

perspectives

9

GARAGES TO LET We currently have garages available to rent in the following areas. If you would be interested in renting a garage please make enquires to Steve Machen on 01962 848 148 or: smachen@winchester.gov.uk

Hampshire Home Choice A new way to help you find a home The City Council has been working in partnership with East Hampshire District Council and Havant Borough Council to develop a Choice Based Lettings scheme for customers wishing to access social housing across all three local authority areas; it is called Hampshire Home Choice and will be going live on 22 April 2009.

Hampshire Home Choice will involve the Council advertising vacant properties which registered applicants will be able to bid for in the areas they would like to live. The new scheme offers greater choice to all those applicants seeking housing, enabling customers to make well-informed decisions about their housing options and be more proactive in how they find suitable accommodation.

All applicants who have filled in the new application form are on the Housing Register and have already received information about the scheme.

A newsletter with more information will be sent to all registered applicants in February 2009. If you would like to find out more you can do so at www.winchester.gov.uk/hampshirehomechoice or call 01962 840 222, or visit our Local Offices www.winchester.gov.uk/localoffices

Abbotts Barton Old Alresford Bishops Waltham Curdridge Denmead Highcliffe Kingsworthy Otterbourne

Sparsholt Bostock Close Stanmore Swanmore Weeke Wickham Winnall

Specific locations can be seen at www.winchester.gov.uk/garages

Garage Weekly Charges Council Tenants: £7.87 per week Private: £10.26 per week Private Central Location £12.08 per week Council Leaseholders £8.92 per week Council Leaseholder Central Location £10.50 per week We also have a number of other garage sites throughout the district. If you are interested in joining the waiting list for any of our other garage sites please contact us on the above telephone number or email address.

Push 4 Safer Homes Push 4 Safer Homes is a new scheme offering help to private home owners who need to make their homes safer, warmer or more accessible. The scheme is operated in partnership with several local authorities in Hampshire and is designed to help older, disabled, or vulnerable people who cannot afford to make vital improvements to their home.

10

perspectives

Help available includes a Home Improvement Loan – an interest free loan secured on your property, a Warm Home Grant – helping you to insulate and heat your property, and an Accessible Home Loan – helping those with disabilities to make their homes more accessible. In many cases, this help is available in conjunction with help offered by other schemes.

If you would like more information or would like to make an application, please call free on 0800 519 17 17 (Monday to Thursday 8.30am to 5pm – Friday 8.30 to 4.40pm) or email housing.renewal@ southampton.gov.uk.

Alternatively, you can visit the Push 4 Safer Homes website at www.push.gov.uk/4_safer_homes

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k

Private Water Supplies Register to ensure your water is safe to drink Do you drink water from a private supply? A private water supply is not a ‘mains’ supply provided by a water company.

It could serve just one property, or it could be a large supply with a network of pipes serving many properties.

It is likely that you are on a private water supply if you do not pay either Southern Water or Portsmouth Water for drinking water. However, you may still pay the Water Authority for sewage services so it is best to check your bill.

Since 1991, Local Authorities have been required to check the quality of all privately-owned water supplies in their area and, later this year, new Regulations are being introduced to give the City Council increased powers to improve those private water supplies which are failing to meet the required standards.

The City Council currently holds a register of over 150 private water supplies which are tested on a regular basis to ensure they meet drinking water standards.

The register is also shared with other bodies, such as the Environment Agency to ensure that the water quality is not compromised by agricultural activities or new developments. To protect drinking water quality it is important that the register is kept up to date.

If you own or drink water from a private supply and are unsure whether it has been registered with the City Council, please contact the Environmental Protection Team on 01962 848 250. Officers will arrange to make a visit and investigate whether your water is safe to drink. For further information visit www.winchester.gov.uk/EnvironmentAndPlanning/ Pollution/Water.

Keeping yours and your family’s food safe Instances of illness in the UK from Listeria are on the increase, particularly in people over the age of 60 with reduced immunity.

Although most healthy adults will suffer nothing more than mild flu-like symptoms, it does have the potential to lead to severe blood poisoning or meningitis, and in the worst cases it can leave sufferers hospitalised for many weeks.

Infection with Listeria usually arises from eating contaminated foodstuffs. The most commonly associated foods include pre-prepared cooked and chilled meals, soft cheeses, cold cuts of meat and smoked fish. Listeria is one of the more unusual food poisoning bacteria as it can multiply at temperatures ranging from normal room temperature down to as low as 5oC (refrigeration temperature).

It is impossible to tell from the appearance, smell or taste whether food is contaminated with Listeria, which makes the control of it so important.

Following these simple steps can help you minimise the risk: G

Make sure your fridge is set to 5oC or below and is working correctly

G

Foods taken out of chilled storage should be eaten within four hours – after this it should be thrown away

G

Keep cooked and raw foods separate

G

Follow the storage instructions printed on the foods label

G

Cook food thoroughly ensuring that it is cooked in the centre

G

Don’t use food after its ‘use by’ date

G

Use opened foods within two days, unless the label states otherwise

G

Throw away left-over reheated food.

G

Cooked food that is not eaten should be cooled as quickly as possible and then stored in a fridge More information about food safety can be found at www.winchester.gov.uk/foodsafety

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k

perspectives

11

Free Swimming!

Youth of Winchester have spent their first year developing links between the districts secondary schools, school councils, and their peers to represent the views of young people in the Winchester District.

In the coming year they will be concentrating on their 4 priorities which are; transport for young people, positive images of young people, leisure facilities including publicising what already exists, and tackling bullying.

Newly elected Chair of YOW, Malyha Ahmed said, "As a district Winchester needs to communicate with all young people, and include everyone, regardless of their background or intellect. In my new role as chair, I want to make YOW a name that is commonly heard, and develop it into a setting in which everyone feels comfortable in stating their beliefs, and having them heard by people that can act."

YOW elected officers meet every half term during school time, and there are open meetings from 5pm - 6.15pm, every other month which all young people can attend.

Winchester City Council is working in partnership with Hampshire County Council Children's Services (Youth Service) and secondary schools across the district.

If you would like to find out more about Youth of Winchester and how you can get involved please email yow_pr_team@yahoo.co.uk or telephone Nicola Lawrence on 01962 848 497.

12

perspectives

Over 55s’ Action Forum Before Christmas, following an Older Persons Information Day at the Discovery Centre, a meeting was held entitled ‘Speaking Up For Old Age’.

The aim of the meeting was to explore the possibility of establishing an Over 55s’ Action Forum.

Forum member Heather Nicholson said "Following on from that successful meeting, we wish to appeal for more people to join us.

Ideally we need to attract people from all areas, with a wide range of interests. As long as you are over 55 you are very welcome to join.”

G Are you over 55?

G

Are you interested in older people’s issues?

G

Would you like to meet likeminded people?

G

Do you want to influence the policy makers and make sure older people’s voices are heard?

G

Are you happy with the availability and accessibility of local services?

G

Are you concerned with local transport, recreation and leisure, social activities, care, housing, local health services, preserving local facilities, and anything else which could affect us?

G

Have you ever thought ‘if only’?

There are now a large number of similar groups in Hampshire and country wide operating a range of remarkable projects and activities in their respective areas. Winchester’s Over 55s’ Action Forum aims to be a positive influence in the Winchester area, represent the views and needs of older people to the City Council and beyond.

The project is supported by Winchester City Council, and we look forward to hearing from anyone who would like to get involved. Please phone Nicola Lawrence on 01962 848 497 for further details.

This magazine is produced by Winchester City Council.

If you would like to contact us about any of the services featured in this issue, please see the contact details given in each article. You can also write to us at City Offices, Colebrook Street, Winchester, SO23 9LJ, call Corporate Communications on 01962 848 504, or email communications@winchester.gov.uk.

Telephone calls may be recorded.

Winchester City Council is not responsible for the content of external websites.

This magazine is printed on 75% recycled paper.

Tape versions are available on request from Winchester Talking Newspaper, through our Corporate Communications Unit.

w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k

75%

PTC0028-28249 March 2009 Designed by Winchester City Council’s Design, Print & WP Section. Printed by Bishops Printers.

of Winchester

D i s t r i c t Yo u t h C o u n c i l

From 1 April, Winchester City Council and partners DC Leisure are offering free swimming at River Park Leisure Centre to children and young people (aged 16 and under) and to older people (aged 60 and over), thanks to a grant from the Department of Culture, Media and Sport. Initially for a two year period, the free swimming initiative supports efforts to get more people more active by the time of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.