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Wokingham Borough
NEWS Your magazine from Wokingham Borough Council
Winter 2015
In this issue‌
Music festival at Dinton will be Marvellous page 3
High street of the year finalist page 12
Stay well this winter
Leaving gold footprints
page 14
page 15
www.wokingham.gov.uk
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Keeping in touch with us customerservice@wokingham.gov.uk www.wokingham.gov.uk (0118) 974 6000 /wokinghamboroughcouncil /wokinghamboroughcouncil @WokinghamBC /WokinghamBC Visit us: Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5pm Write to us: Wokingham Borough Council, Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham RG40 1BN Find out more information by: Email and text updates – register at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/signup
Also in this issue...
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Keeping children safe online
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Stay well this winter
Welcome During the autumn we discussed our budget challenges with you. We held five public sessions (something we haven’t done before) and it was great to have open and honest conversations with you. I’d like to thank those of you who came along, and hope you found them informative. During the past five years we’ve made £31million savings whilst protecting frontline services. While it’s been challenging, the decisions we’ve made in the past have been some what easier than those we face now.
Wokingham town centre regeneration continues at pace (see page 28) and I’m delighted work has also started on the new secondary school at Arborfield Garrison (page 24). We also talk to Caroline from Wokingham on page 24 who tells us more about the health benefits of using the long-term condition gym at Bulmershe Leisure Centre.
We’ve also launched a private fostering campaign. If someone else is caring for The time was right to talk to you about your child, or if you or someone you the budget in more detail, and to let you know is caring for a child for someone know about the hard decisions we’re else, for 28 days or more, it’s your legal going to have to make in setting next responsibility to tell us. Find out more year’s budget. We don’t anticipate these about this on page 8 of this magazine. sessions will be a one-off, and we will be looking to see how we can build this into And, we have news to celebrate. Once again Wokingham came top in the the budget process in the future. annual Family Hotspot report as the best It’s been clear for some time that we place for families to live. Lower Earley can’t carry on doing things in the came fifth. The report looks at education, traditional way we’ve always done them. safety, childcare costs, house prices and green spaces. Twyford has also been With this in mind, we’ve been breaking shortlisted as Best Village High Street of the mould and are already doing things the Year (see page 12). differently. We’ve set up seven traded companies, and you can find out more Don’t forget, you can keep up-to-date about Optalis, our social care company, with all the latest Council news on our on page 6 of this magazine. website at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/ news. You can also follow us on Twitter We are pulling together all the (@WokinghamBC) or like us on Facebook comments, and ideas, that came out of (facebook.com/wokinghamborough the sessions and will publish a public council). report shortly. You can get in touch with me via email While the future may sound bleak, this at: keith.baker@wokingham.gov.uk magazine showcases some of the good things happening around our Borough. Cllr Keith Baker
Council Leader
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Moving forward with regeneration
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Editorial: Communications Team at Wokingham Borough Council Design and printed by: Digital Solutions on uncoated FSCM 75gsm paper Cost: 14p per person / 26p per household To advertise in Wokingham Borough News, or any other queries about this magazine including delivery, please contact: communications@wokingham.gov.uk. A pdf version of this magazine is available online at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/boroughnews
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Music festival at Dinton Pastures will be simply Next July (23 and 24) the family-friendly Marvellous Festival is making its way to Dinton Pastures Country Park in Hurst for a weekend of live music. Taking place on the former Hurst Golf Course, it features a variety of world class tribute artists as well as a funfair, big kid’s village, food and drink stalls, and an area for camping. The line-up is yet to be decided but previously has included music inspired by ABBA, The Beatles, Coldplay, Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Michael Jackson, Oasis, Rod Stewart, Take That and U2. Take advantage of a 15% discount with early bird tickets. Now on sale at: www.marvellousfestivals.com
For your chance to win a pair of weekend tickets (including camping) just let us know your favourite top five tribute artists/bands from some of the previous Marvellous headliners‌ ABBA Adele The Beach Boys The Beatles Bee Gees Black Eyed Peas Blondie Bob Marley Bogus Brothers Bon Jovi Bryan Adams Coldplay Dire Straits The Eagles
ELO Elton John Elvis Fleetwood Mac Johnny Cash Kings of Leon The Kinks Led Zeppelin Madness Maroon 5 Michael Jackson Motown Show Oasis Paul Weller/Jam
Pink! Pink Floyd The Police Queen Rat Pack Rod Stewart Rolling Stones Supertramp Take That Thin Lizzy T-Rex U2
Email your top five list to: communications@wokingham.gov.uk along with your name and address, to be entered into the prize draw.
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Thanks for joining the budget conversation Thanks to everyone who joined the conversation at one of the five budgets sessions held around the Borough in October. The future is going to be tougher financially than in previous years. We were keen to get a better understanding of your priorities, as well as where you thought we should make future savings. We were also keen to hear how you would prioritise our choices.
The challenge we face is setting a robust and balanced budget next year and subsequent years as well, and therefore have an extremely difficult task of deciding where and how we save money by either reducing services or increasing our income.
To set the scene, we have an annual budget of £113million (2015/16) and the majority of our money is spent on statutory services - £90million (including adult social care, children’s services, waste collection and disposal, and highways). Some £23million is spent on non-statutory services such as leisure, parks and open spaces, and bus subsidies.
So thanks to everyone who came along and shared their views. So, what did you tell us? We will be summarising and publishing the views later this year, before our decision-making Executive considers them as part of the budget process.
Executive view Cllr Anthony Pollock, Executive Member for Economic Development and Finance “It was great to discuss and find out more about the most important and least important areas you would like us to focus our limited resources on. The final challenge is huge. “We’ve worked hard during the past five years, saving in excess of £31million while protecting frontline services. We are planning for another year of significant cuts in public sector funding which we estimate will cost us approximately £4million. But we have demographic pressures from more children and over-65s in the Borough who need services from us. Therefore our saving target is £8million.”
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Number one council tax collection rate in the country Thanks to your efforts, we’ve topped the national council tax collection charts for local authorities in 2014/15. We collected 99.5% of the council tax we were owed for 2014/15 - up from 99.3% and 99.4% respectively from the previous two years.
£800,000 of council tax. This means we’ve generated some £2million more than if we’d been an average performing authority.
The national average collection rate for 2014/15 was 97% and each percentage point for Wokingham Borough Council equates to about
For business rates, the Wokingham Borough was joint third at 99.8% just behind Canterbury on 100% and Tower Hamlets 99.9%.
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It CAN be you… If you think you would like to make a difference to your community and are thinking of standing in local elections next May, you should start thinking about it now. Prospective candidates can find lots of information about what it takes to be a councillor, including who can be one and what they do, at: www.beacouncillor.co.uk. If you wish to stand for a particular party you should contact them straightaway because they need time to get to know you. We can give you their contact details or you can search online. We also hold candidates and agents briefing sessions at our Shute End offices ahead of all local elections. If anyone is thinking of standing - whether part of a political party or independent - contact us so we can invite you to the right event. More information: • (0118) 974 6674 • julie.kent@wokingham.gov.uk • www.wokingham.gov.uk/become-a-councillor • www.wokingham.gov.uk/election-information
Tackling male suicide We’ve joined forces with local authorities across the Thames Valley to create a CALMzone to prevent male suicide. In 2013, male suicide accounted for 78 per cent of all suicides and is the single biggest cause of death in men aged 20 to 45 in the UK. Thames Valley is the third CALMzone in the UK. CALM’s dedicated service is free, confidential, and anonymous. It’s phone line and webchat is staffed by professionals who offer support, signposting and information to callers every day, from 5pm to midnight. More information: • 0800 585858 • www.thecalmzone.net/get-help
Once in a generation vote The EU Referendum Bill is going through Parliament right now. The Prime Minister is currently talking to other European countries to try to thrash out a new deal for the UK. The date of the referendum has not been set, although it won’t be May 5, 2016 with local elections. When it is called it could be held at very short notice. Residents should therefore ensure their electoral registration is kept up-to-date. If you’ve moved, telling council tax doesn’t register you to vote. The rules have changed; electoral registration is now an individual’s responsibility.
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Registering to vote is quick and easy. Simply go to the Direct Gov website (the same website you visit to update your driving licence) at: www.gov.uk/register-to-vote. It only takes minutes and all you need is your NI number, date of birth and previous address. If you don’t have access to the internet call the Electoral Services Helpline on (0118) 974 6522 or 6523. More information: www.wokingham.gov.uk/register-to-vote
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Making a difference Wokingham-based Optalis provides social care and support services to older people and adults with a learning disability and is owned by Wokingham Borough Council. And, it’s on a recruitment drive. Newly appointed Managing Director, Mette Le Jakobsen, is keen to expand the team. She says: “With an ageing society and an expected rise in the number of people diagnosed with dementia, and people with learning disabilities, it’s vital there are support systems in place to meet the increasingly complex needs of our community. Our high-quality, dedicated staff provide essential support to vulnerable people and we are on the look out for more carers.”
Meet some of the team: It’s the little things that matter Senior Support Worker, Charlotte Sehmi, finds her role very rewarding. “Ever since I was little I have enjoyed looking after people who can’t look after themselves. I started as a Care Worker in the Long-Term Support Team at Optalis - visiting clients and providing daily personal care. It’s the little things which matter. For example, a simple thing like a cup of tea could be an issue if it’s not in a client’s favourite cup. “I then progressed to be a Senior Support Worker where I sort out any problems that may arise, oversee the planning and setting up of care packages, ensure the care team is properly supported and the highest standards of care are maintained.”
Put yourself in their shoes Faith Kenyon is a Senior Support Worker in the Learning Disabilities Service.
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“I work with adults and support them with independent living skills. I help with tasks such as housework, shopping trips, personal care – the things most people take for granted but others really struggle with. “I enjoy helping people to achieve the little things that mean a lot to them. It’s important to find out what makes people tick. “You need to be able to get to know a person and understand the nature of their care. The main thing is treating people the way you would want to be treated yourself. Put yourself in their shoes.”
Be a good listener Karl Slender is a Senior Support Worker in the Learning Disabilities Service. “I come from a family of nursing professionals, so it seemed a natural progression to work with people with learning disabilities. Although it was a challenge I found it suited me. I work with people with communication needs so I need to understand what they are trying to say through their behaviour and then help them. I support people with their everyday tasks, personal care, meals and drinks preparation and social activities. “It’s important to be a good listener, a good communicator and above all patient.”
Interested in joining the team? Visit www.optalis.org/jobs or contact (0118) 977 8600 for more information. 18/11/2015 17:37:06
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Making a difference to people’s lives every day Our teams provide high quality care for individuals in and around Wokingham. We are looking for brilliant care and support workers for our older people’s and learning disabilities services Our older people’s services provide care in a variety of settings including in the home and residential care. If you are interested in working with adults with disabilities, we have services based in the community, in supported living environments and at day centres.
What do we offer? • • • • • • • • • • •
Generous pay Full training and career development opportunities Mileage paid at 45p a mile Scottish Widows pension scheme Life Assurance Free health plan Childcare vouchers Free uniform Free DBS check Free mobile phone Employee recognition scheme
Want to find out more? Call our recruitment team on 0118 977 8600 or apply online at www.optalis.org/jobs
If you are caring and compassionate and enjoy helping people, we want to hear from you!
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Looking after somebody else’s child? Let us know If you look after somebody else’s child (or arrange for your child to be looked after by someone else) this is known in law as private fostering. It’s an arrangement made without the direct involvement of the Council, and is when a child aged 16 and under is looked after by someone outside the close family for 28 days or more. This law does not apply if the child or teenager is looked after by a close relative, such as their grandparent, step-parent with parental responsibility, brother or sister, aunt or uncle.
If you are considering a private fostering arrangement or know someone who is involved in one, contact us. More information: • (0118) 908 8002 • triage@wokingham.gov.uk • www.wokingham.gov.uk/private-fostering
There are a number of reasons why a child or teenager is privately fostered including living with a friend’s family because of arguments at home; a parent having a long-term illness; or parents being homeless.
Executive view
By law, every local authority needs to know about private fostering to ensure children and teenagers are safe and well cared for. We work with you to check and assess how suitable the arrangements are for you, and the child or teenager you are looking after, and make sure they are getting the support they need.
“If you’re looking after a child or teenager who isn’t part of your own family, don’t forget you need to let us know. Private fostering can be a really positive experience for children and young people, but can put others at risk. That’s why it is essential we know about it, so please get in touch so we can support you and the child.”
Cllr Charlotte Haitham Taylor, Executive Member for Children’s Services
The more you know the more you see Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) is a form of child abuse that can affect any young person, regardless of their social or ethnic background.
protected from harm. Visit our website and the websites on page 9 to find out more about recognising the signs and risk factors of CSE to help you to protect your children.
It can begin with and include the use of social media.
More information: www.wokinghamlscb.org.uk
Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and we’re keen you all know the signs of exploitation to ensure your children are
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Keeping children safe online Children now grow up in a world where computer technology and life on the internet is the norm. Many children, even from a young age, will already be familiar with smartphones or tablets, and they often have their own computers, tablets and games consoles. They are part of our everyday life, which is why we need to keep our children and teenagers safe online as electronic media can be involved in their victimisation and abuse. We want to provide you with more information and support to help you have conversations with your children about staying safe online. There are lots of resources out there to help you. More information: www.wokinghamlscb.org.uk/E-Safety
Advice is available A leading national organisation on e-safety is the Child Exploitation and Online Protection (CEOP) Centre. It’s Think U Know? website has sections on internet safety aimed at: • children aged 5 to 7 • children aged 8 to 10 • young people aged 11 to 16 • parents • teachers www.thinkuknow.co.uk The NSPCC has launched a campaign, called Share Aware, to help you keep your children safe online. The Share Aware campaign, aimed at parents of children aged 8 to 12, helps to give you the tools to feel confident to start conversations with your children and resources to keep them safe online.
Net Aware provides key tools to tackle issues surrounding online safety. It’s recently updated Net Aware guide includes information about popular social media sites and online platforms. www.net-aware.org.uk Internet Matters is an independent, not-for-profit organisation to help you keep your children safe online and includes more on cyber bullying, online grooming, sexting, radicalisation and pornography. www.internetmatters.org
The main NSPCC website also has further helpful advice and tools you can use to help keep your child safe whenever and wherever they go online. www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/share-aware www.nspcc.org.uk/preventing-abuse/keeping-children-safe/online-safety
Wokingham Safeguarding Children Board has launched its own Twitter profile. Follow them at: @WokinghamSCB
Concerned for a child? Do something If you have concerns about a child or young person not being properly cared for or you’re worried they may be physically, emotionally or sexually abused, or neglected, get in touch confidentially with our Early Help Hub. Children and their parents may need urgent help. If you don’t feel comfortable telling us, or aren’t sure if you’re right, you can also speak to a police officer, teacher, health visitor, doctor, or the NSPCC, on 0808 800 5000. The most important thing is to tell someone who can help.
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If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call the police on 999. More information: • (0118) 908 8002 • triage@wokingham.gcsx.gov.uk • www.wokingham.gov.uk/safeguarding
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Making a difference Tomorrow’s best-selling authors are honing their talents today at Igniting Writing, a creative writing group for teenagers, which has now been going for more than a year. The group is held on Saturdays, from 10.30am to midday, at Wokingham Library. Teenage years are pivotal for aspiring writers. “It’s the age most writers are just starting to develop their imaginations,” said club founder, Alex Baker. “In the year Igniting Writing has been going we’ve shown there’s definitely an appetite among teenagers to practice writing creatively in a fun group atmosphere. “Our attendances are in double figures and we’ve attracted some prestigious guest speakers. Wokingham Library staff have been really supportive too, setting aside part of the library especially for us.
“This year we’re aiming to get more guest speakers to come in and share their writing expertise – in our first year we had some fantastic sessions led by published author Andy Robb and literary agent Amber Caraveo. “We also want to get more local schools involved, to build on the successes of the fun ‘taster sessions’ we’ve already hosted at Hawkedon Primary School and Sonning C of E Primary School.” More information: • libraries@wokingham.gov.uk • (0118) 978 1368 twitter.com/IgnitingWriting facebook.com/groups/829509490414536 ignitingwriting.tumblr.com
Let’s Work Together Since 2013, National Grid has been working with special educational needs schools around the country to provide a jointly supported internship programme. The EmployAbility programme gives young people with disabilities, in their last year of school, the chance to gain an ASDAN employability qualification to boost their self-belief and confidence. At the end of the year they are then supported into work.
roll, but are based at National Grid for the year taking three placements in different departments. These placements will match students’ interests, personalities and skills; for example cafeteria, reception, post room delivery, administration and IT. “This is a very exciting and innovative project which will give our students a real insight into a working environment.” More information:
www.employabilityletsworktogether.com
National Grid in Wokingham has chosen this year to work with Addington School in Woodley and celebrated this at its offices in Bearwood Road, Sindlesham. “Four students started their internships in September 2015,” said Liz Meek, Headteacher. “The students remain on the school
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Courtesy of Vivienne Johnson / The Wokingham Paper
Phoenix Avenue groundwork Further site preparation to build the new homes in Phoenix Avenue, Wokingham is due to start before Christmas, with the construction of the homes themselves starting next year. Hill Partnership is the successful contractor chosen through competitive tender to build our £12million scheme of 68 new homes. This is the beginning of the new community that will emerge where former Eustace Crescent once stood - now renamed ready for its transformation. It will boast a range of one bedroom flats to four bed houses, each with their own private amenity space or garden, and community landscaping. The project is being managed on our behalf by our company Wokingham Housing Ltd. Hill is an award-winning London and south east contractor with significant experience in building public sector regeneration projects like ours.
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Improving Resident and Customer Service We are keen to find out more about your experience when you contact us.
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Twyford high street is one of Britain’s best! In October, Twyford was named as one of the country’s best high streets when it was shortlisted in the annual Great British High Street competition.
2015
Support your high street th thegreatbr rough itishhighstre et.co.uk
Twyford has been named alongside Brigg and West Kilbride as one of the top three high streets in the village category. The Twyford Village Partnership (TVP) has sat at the heart of this village’s recent rise to prominence. A variety of annual community events comprise a packed calendar including a 10-day ‘Twyfest’ featuring a talent contest, German beer festival, arts performances and more. A major aim of TVP was to create an ‘action-focused’ business forum to develop a stronger contingent of independent shops facing competition from larger retailers. The result of this is its 100-member strong business alliance, which has brought about an impressive reduction in vacancy rates, currently at zero per cent. In a 2010 survey, the team drew together the desires of their community in the formation of Twyford 2020 – a comprehensive town plan which looks to improve the vibrancy of the high street and village centre in the coming years.
Gordon Storey, who led Twyford’s entry for the competition, said: “We’re proud of Twyford being voted as one of Britain’s best high streets and we hope this will be a real boost for the village.” Winners were due to be announced at the end of November (after Wokingham Borough News went to print). More information: http://thegreatbritishhighstreet.co.uk
Boosting youth employment opportunities Our careers service, Elevate Wokingham, is working in partnership with building companies and developers to set up Employment Skills Plans. They provide training and career opportunities including work experience, apprenticeships, jobs and educational activities relating to careers advice. A Construction Skills Broker, based at Elevate Wokingham, works with businesses to help them find young people for their job roles. We also support young people into employment particularly those who may need a bit more help to benefit from the opportunities available. The construction industry is a growing commercial sector in Wokingham Borough, and provides a wide number of job opportunities. This includes employment routes, such as apprenticeships, as well as training to become a qualified tradesperson or pursue a professional career. A number of successful training and employment positions have already been created for young people and during the coming year new houses and schools are being built, as well as Wokingham town centre regeneration - all of which will provide further opportunities.
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Building company Dawnus started work on the new secondary school at Arborfield Garrison in October, and is working closely with the Construction Skills Broker at Elevate to produce an employment skills plan. It also sponsored Wokingham Careers Fair in October, attended by more than 1,200 young people seeking advice on their future careers. More information: angela.torr@wokingham.gov.uk
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Grass cutting in great shape Major changes trialled in our grass cutting service this summer, have proved a great success. You may have noticed the introduction of wildflower meadows, which have brought a splash of colour to some parts of the Borough. Other changes have also been put in place to balance your expectations of the grass cutting service with available budget. After a difficult summer in 2014, we listened to your views and worked with our contractor to improve the service for this summer: • • •
Targeting areas that need a higher level of maintenance, such as play areas and sports pitches Introducing long grass areas, which provide more diverse natural habitats for wildlife Wildflower borders in highly visible areas to boost biodiversity and create attractive landscapes
These changes have helped us keep on top of grass cutting without additional cost. You have also been generally supportive of these changes; thank you. There was a significant difference between this summer and 2014’s and we are grateful to those of you who took part in our consultation and helped us plan improvements. The frustration caused in 2014 was understandable and we listened to what you told us and used that information to plan a better service.
Our next challenge is to build on this year’s success in the long-term, so the changes have been used to draw up a new grounds maintenance contract which has been now been put out to tender. This new contract offers greater flexibility, and we expect whoever is awarded the contract to build on this year’s success. The wildflower trials introduced this year were in Cantley Park (Wokingham), Ashenbury Park (Woodley) and on the Woosehill Spine Road. If you have any suggestions for future wildflower areas, please let us know. More information: • countryside@wokingham.gov.uk • www.wokingham.gov.uk/parks-and-countryside
Executive view Cllr Angus Ross, Executive Member for Environment “We’re very lucky to have such a rich and diverse wealth of open space and countryside across the Borough. And thanks to your input, we’ve changed the way we manage them and in doing so are both enhancing and improving them.”
Play days! A new play area for families with additional needs has opened at Sol Joel Park in Earley. Funded by developers’ contributions, it’s a joint project by us and Earley Town Council, and features a sensory trail with play panels, tactile orbs, musical spheres and chimes. The activity area includes a specially designed wheelchair accessible wobbly bridge, trampoline and roundabout, together with an easy-to-access double-width slide. The dynamic trail section contains pull-up bars to develop upper body strength, and stepping posts to aid balance and co-ordination. Brightly coloured wheelchair accessible picnic benches are also provided around the play area.
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Leaving gold footprints We’ve kept our gold in the RSPCA’s Community Animal Welfare Footprints awards for the sixth consecutive year, in recognition of our outstanding care for stray dogs locally. Gold standard is the highest achievement, and rewards public sector organisations going above and beyond basic and statutory animal welfare standards. “We catch or collect the stray dog, look for its ID tag, scan for a microchip, look to see if it has any distinguishing marks, and return it to its owner if possible,” said Mandy Dorman, Borough Animal Warden. “If we cannot find its details, or get hold of the owner, we take it to kennels. These have underfloor heating and are staffed by trained professionals and manned 24/7. “All newbies are assessed by the vet, whether sick or not. We keep the dog for up to seven days to give an owner a chance to claim it. “If the dog isn’t claimed we find a space in a rescue centre. We only use rescues that vaccinate, microchip, neuter and home check.” Last year (April 2014 to March 2015) there were 172 stray dogs in the Borough, and the year before 220. ID tags on dogs are a legal requirement, and microchipping is due to become law next April.
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The original owner is liable to pay vets and kennel fees and our costs caring for their stray. “Our aim is to reunite the dog with its owner and get it home, or find it a new one as quickly as possible,” said Mandy. “More than half our strays are reclaimed by their owners – usually the same day. “My favourite moments are when we reunite a stolen dog with its owner. I love that look on its face when it recognises them. “My worst are aggressive people. I don’t mind aggressive dogs. It’s not their fault.” Abandoned dogs tend to be a seasonal problem – Christmas puppies tend to be left when they hinder the first summer holidays away. “Always research the breeds if you want a dog, to find the one that suits the amount of exercise you can give it, and the size of your home. “And always consider a rescue dog first, if you can.” More information: • (0118) 974 6000 • www.wokingham.gov.uk/animalwelfare
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Live Well in Wokingham Borough
Stay well this winter As the winter approaches so do the coughs, colds, bugs and flu viruses. To stay well this winter here are a few quick and easy steps you can take. Get your flu vaccine You are eligible for a free flu vaccine if you are: • Over 65 • Pregnant • A carer (paid or unpaid) • Have a long term condition such as asthma, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, cardio-vascular disease, diabetes or are immunosuppressed • Children aged 6 months to 18 years with a long-term condition • A child between 2 and 4 years or in school Years 1 and 2 All adults are able to get the flu vaccine at their GP or at local participating pharmacies; eligible children need to get their flu vaccine, delivered in the form of a nasal spray, at their GP or school if in Years 1 and 2.
Remember myths about flu can spread as fast as flu itself. Here are a few facts about the flu vaccine to help you in your decision: • • • •
Proper flu can really knock you off your feet, cause a stay in hospital and in really severe cases it can be fatal The vaccine has to be given annually as the flu germs vary each year The best protection is the flu vaccine. Antibiotics won’t work if you catch flu, and even if you have already had it there are lots of strains of flu so it’s worth still protecting yourself You cannot catch flu from the vaccine
Keep your home heated to at least 18 degrees
If you are prescribed antibiotics, finish the course
Keep all windows and doors closed. Keeping the curtains drawn can also keep the house heated. If possible try to keep active within the house, eat regular hot meals and consume warm drinks.
And take any medicines as directed, and get any repeat prescriptions filled in advance as many surgeries and pharmacies close during Christmas.
Keep a supply of cold and flu remedies in the house so you don’t need to go out if the weather is bad If you start to feel ill, get help from your pharmacist. Don’t go to A&E or call 999 unless it is an emergency. If you are in doubt NHS 111 can help you get the right treatment.
If possible check on elderly and vulnerable family and friends Just a quick call or chat can help keep those that may need a bit of help to stay well this winter and reduce isolation, particularly if the weather is predicted to turn bad. More information: www.wokingham.gov.uk/publichealth
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Live Well in Wokingham Borough
Eating out healthily Sticking to a healthy diet doesn’t mean you have to avoid dining out. Award-winning Nutritionist Christine Bailey shares her top tips for eating out healthily. Scan the menu. Avoid anything described as pan-fried, crispy, battered or gratin as these are likely to be much higher in fat. Instead choose dishes which are grilled, steamed, poached or baked. Focus on protein and vegetables. One of the easiest ways to keep your meal healthy is to make protein and vegetables the basis of your main course. Choose a lean portion of protein such as meat or fish and pile half of your plate with steamed vegetables or salad. Choose leaner cuts of meat - a flank steak or filet mignon are good options. Or opt for chicken or turkey breast-based dishes and remove the skin. Removing the skin from your festive turkey after cooking can save around 40 calories per portion. Light starters. If you’re having a starter look for a tomato - or stock-based soup (rather than a calorie-rich cream-based one), or small salad. Ask for the dressing on the side or swap the mayonnaise for a drizzle of balsamic vinegar instead.
Watch those sides and dressings. Avoid sides smothered with sauces, toppings or fried and avoid those cheese sprinkles, croutons and bacon bits. A single ladle of gravy can load 200 or more calories onto your meal. Ask for it separately so you can serve yourself. If you love stuffing with your roast, swap the sausage meat for a more vegetable-based stuffing to cut calories and salt. Watch the bread basket. Don’t go overboard with carbohydrates like breads, rice, pasta and potato. These can play havoc with your blood sugar levels and waistline. Ask for an extra portion of vegetables instead. Skip the soda. Don’t drink your calories. These offer no nutritional benefits and are laden with sugar. Ask for a bottle of fizzy water instead. Share a dessert. If you can’t resist a pudding why not share one or choose healthier options like a platter of fresh fruit or poached fruit?
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Live Well in Wokingham Borough
Tasty Dips Lettuce cups with creviche
Chunky dip with walnuts
1.
1 can (400g) chickpeas, drained 1 roasted red pepper, skin peeled 1 tablespoon tahini paste Juice of ½ lime
Cut any fresh white fish into 1cm cubes, and marinade in lime juice for 1 hour (this cures the fish and changes its texture). Drain and mix fish with chopped avocado, tomatoes and if you like, a teaspoon of sweet chilli sauce.
2. Put into lettuce cups and serve. Alternatively, also marinade a pink fish in orange juice and mix both fishes for a colourful alternative. Tip: Divide a small little gem lettuce and soak leaves in iced water to crisp up. Drain and pat dry. These little cups look lovely and don’t add carbohydrate to the dish.
Marginally decadent sweet dip Mix together 1 large tub of low-fat cream cheese with a generous tablespoon of Kahlua and the same of maple syrup. Stir until smooth: a wonderful dip. Tip: Can be served with any fruits, or small fruit kebabs on cocktail sticks.
Blend the above together, either in a food processor for a fine texture or with a potato masher for a much coarser mix, then add 8 chopped walnuts. Can be eaten immediately but also mellows beautifully overnight. For great crackers with dips, slice small wraps into triangles, spread with either a smear of Vegemite, pesto, squeeze of lemon and bake at 200◦C until crisp. Turn once during cooking. Use raw vegetables in dips. They add colour and flavour; carrot batons, cucumber sticks, celery, radishes, blanched asparagus.
Easy herb dip Mix together non-fat Greek yoghurt (200ml) with half a coarsely grated cucumber, 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and finely chopped herbs of your choice. Delicious, appetising, fresh and so easy.
Get active Although we’ve concentrated on looking at food and healthy options, it’s also good to keep as physically active as possible in the colder weather. Its recommended adults should be physically active every day. And, in the course of a week, adults should do at least two and a half hours moderate intensity activity. This can be in short bursts of 10 minutes or more. Exercise aimed at improving muscle strength should ideally be completed twice a week as this will lead to long-term benefits in mobility and strength.
Did you know? For someone aged 35 and of average weight, you can burn off your portion of roast potatoes with 27 minutes of brisk walking, or 13 minutes moderate cycling. For a portion of Christmas cake or stuffing you need to do 50 minutes brisk walking or 27 minutes moderate cycling.
Executive view Cllr Julian McGhee-Sumner, Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing “Getting more active has lots of benefits. Moderate exercise can include walking between three and four miles per hour, cycling, mowing the lawn, as well as more structured activity like going to the gym. “With a bit of thought, it’s possible to include this in daily life. Choosing to enhance your own wellbeing is a positive choice. Starting to increase your activity ahead of Christmas is a great start!”
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Live Well in Wokingham Borough
Christmas food safety top tips!! Good food is a big part of making Christmas special. If you’re planning to prepare food for an event at home, here are some basic home safety tips to help keep your Christmas safe and healthy.
Storing food Store food that needs to be chilled in the fridge until you need it. Raw turkey should always be left in the bottom of fridge until ready to use. By keeping food cold, you slow the growth of food poisoning bugs. Don’t pack food too tightly as the cold air needs to circulate to cool your food. Make sure the fridge temperature is running between 0 and 5°C. Keep all raw food, whether it’s your turkey or vegetables, separate from ready-to-eat foods to avoid cross-contamination.
Preparation Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before and after handling food, especially with raw meat, poultry and vegetables. Wet or damp hands can spread bugs between food and surfaces too easily. Don’t wash your turkey - this is not needed and spreads germs. If you buy a frozen turkey, make sure its fully defrosted before cooking it. Incorrect thawing can mean it may not cook evenly and harmful bacteria could survive the cooking process. Follow the retailer’s recommended defrosting time. The size of your turkey will determine how long it needs to be defrosted (a large 11kg turkey can take up to 48 hours to defrost). To defrost put the turkey on a large covered dish, or keep in its packaging, in the bottom of the fridge or in a cool place.
Make sure it doesn’t touch other foods and the dish is large enough to collect any liquid produced during thawing.
Cooking Make sure your turkey gets cooked properly and is steaming hot all the way through. When you cut into the thickest part of it, none of the meat should be pink. If juices flow out when you pierce the turkey or when you press the thigh, they should be clear. If you prefer to use a temperature probe or food thermometer, ensure the thickest part of the bird (between the breast and the thigh) reaches at least 70°C for two minutes. Always wash hands thoroughly before and after handling raw food, including vegetables. Use different chopping boards, knives and utensils for raw and ready-to-eat foods, or wash thoroughly inbetween preparing different foods. Unless packaging says ‘ready-to-eat’ you must wash, peel or cook vegetables before eating.
Leftovers Cool leftovers as quickly as possible, ideally within two hours, cover and refrigerate. Use leftovers within two days and if reheating, do so until steaming hot all the way through. Don’t reheat leftovers more than once. If you want to keep leftovers longer than two days, you can freeze them instead. Cool leftovers before putting them in the freezer and use within one month. Once defrosted, don’t refreeze the leftovers. If you decide to eat out instead, don’t let food poisoning ruin your Christmas. Check food hygiene ratings before booking at: http://ratings.food.gov.uk.
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READING BLUE COAT SCHOOL
19 Winter 2014
An independent day school for boys, with a co-educational Sixth Form
Call us for an informal chat with our Admissions team
Sonning Lane, Sonning, Berks RG4 6SU • www.rbcs.org.uk • 0118 944 1005
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Wokingham Borough Since November 2014 we’ve been working with involve Bracknell Forest to provide free support and advice to the voluntary and community sector across the Wokingham Borough. Meet the team Clare Rebbeck, Development Broker, offers support, communication and development assistance directly to groups and charities. She produces ‘The Chain’ newsletter and also supports Network meetings. Contact: (07809) 563714 or leave a message on (01344) 304 404 or clare.rebbeck@involve.community Bruce Wright, Funding Advisor, provides weekly funding alerts, as well as telephone mentoring. He also advises about funding opportunities and ideas on how to apply. He hopes soon to offer this via Skype. Contact: (01626) 867 604 or bruce.wright@involve.community Steve McSweeney, Community Navigator Co-ordinator. He recruits volunteers to act as Community Navigators. They signpost people, referred from healthcare agencies, to community and voluntary organisations and groups offering social support and other non-medical services.
Voluntary Sector Growth Club (January). The first of four support sessions for voluntary and community groups to develop effective leadership and business planning including funding, marketing and communications, team building and sustainability. If you’d like to join our mailing list, or want to find out more, please contact us. Community Awareness Event – Children’s Safeguarding, ‘It’s everyone’s business’ (early February). Check out our website nearer the time. involve Wokingham Borough is here and ready to help. So, if you are involved with a community group or charity working somewhere within the Wokingham Borough and would like some advice or support, please contact us.
A helping hand Every year some 3,000 volunteers in faith groups across the Borough freely give 250,000 hours of their time helping local people in need.
Contact: (01344) 383 515 or steve.mcSweeney@involve.community
More than 200 paid staff in faith groups work 81,000 hours each year helping local neighbourhoods. The total value of all this work is nearly £2.8 million.
Claire Page, Training Co-ordinator. She supports and offers training needed by the voluntary and community sector.
These statistics come from an audit carried out by Wokingham-based Faith in the Community, in partnership with UK charity Cinnamon Network, and includes local groups involved in addressing debt, social isolation and community projects supporting people of all ages.
Contact: (01344) 304 404 or claire.page@involve.community More information: • www.involve.community • Follow us at: @involve_WB
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“We’ve always been aware faith groups across Wokingham Borough contribute a significant amount to individuals’ wellbeing and wider community cohesion,” said Jeremy Sharpe who co-ordinated this research, “and much of this is taking place under the radar.”
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Sport for all SportsAble is a disability sports charity based in Maidenhead open to all Wokingham Borough residents. It raises awareness of disability through sport and recreation and also gets disabled and able-bodied people to do sport together. In September, it celebrated it’s 40th anniversary. The charity has grown to become an important part of many Wokingham Borough residents’ lives. It’s club had just a handful of members in 1975, but now has more than 450 people actively taking part in sport each week from enthusiastic beginners to top athletes. From small beginnings, SportsAble
members have had successes regionally and nationally, and have been represented at every Paralympic competition since 1976. Tia Ruel (right), 18, from Wokingham, was introduced to Boccia through SportsAble and represented England last year at the Czech Open. She has just been given a place on the Youth Sport Trust’s National Camp, an athlete, coaching and volunteer development programme. John Jenkins, President of SportsAble, said: “Being a member of SportsAble represents more than being a member of a regular sports club. It’s about joining a
community of friends, of athletes and volunteers. It’s about giving people meaning to their lives and providing them with a platform for greater things. “If you would like to visit, become a volunteer or take part in any of the sports we have on offer we would love to hear from you.” More information: www.sportsable.co.uk
Thanking our volunteers Every year the Wokingham Borough Mayor invites organisations, from charities and community groups, to an event where they can network, learn about what assistance is available to them and be recognised for the work they do. In November, Borough Mayor Cllr Parry Batth held a reception at Sand Martins Golf Club and more than 50 groups that provide services within the Borough attended. involve Wokingham Borough, which provide support for charities, was on hand to offer practical advice to organisations on a range of topics including communication, development, training and advocacy. Cllr Parry Batth said: “I am pleased so many groups could come together to be recognised and see what help is available. We owe our volunteers a great deal and providing a platform to thank them as well as provide practical help is an honour.”
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Interested in volunteering? Contact the Volunteer Centre in Wokingham. More information: • (0118) 977 0749 • volunteer@wok-vol.org.uk • www.volunteercentrewokingham.org.uk
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Building Sustainable Comm Our long-term plan to meet local housing requirements through carefully planned development is taking shape. We’re also creating schools, roads, parks, play areas and sports facilities. The majority of the homes needed in the Borough between now and 2026 are being built in four Strategic Development Locations (SDLs), where they will be accompanied by major investment in infrastructure and facilities.
Arborfield Garrison Conditional outline planning consent (which agrees the basics of the development but not the detail) has been granted, subject to conditions and detailed agreements being reached, to Crest Nicholson for about 2,000 homes, a new primary school, neighbourhood centre, sports facilities, parks, play areas, and allotments, on the former garrison site. Full planning consent has been given for a new secondary school which will open in September 2016 as part of the garrison development. The new school will be run by Bohunt Education Trust and will initially cater for Year 7 pupils. It will open in the former MOD education centre and will move into its new buildings in 2017 (see page 24).
North Wokingham The main development areas have outline or full consent. These are: Kentwood Farm West and East: About 500 homes either side of Warren House Road to the south of the A329(M). Matthewsgreen: About 760 homes with a new primary school and community centre on the land bounded by Matthewsgreen Road, Toutley Road, the A321 and A329(M). Keep Hatch Beech: 300 homes north of London Road adjacent to the A329(M).
South Wokingham Montague Park: 650 homes plus a new primary school off London Road. About 1,850 homes, as well as a new primary school, neighbourhood centre with community facility and shops south of the railway. A planning application is still to be submitted.
Outline planning consent has been granted for about 1,500 homes as well as a new primary school, district centre, and other facilities at Hogwood Farm.
We have bought Grays Fruit Farm which would become (subject to planning consent) the major outdoor sports hub for Wokingham.
Detailed planning applications (known as ‘reserved matters’ applications) will be submitted in phases for both the Arborfield Garrison and Hogwood Farm developments. These will set the layout of the sites and the detailed design features.
All the major housing developments are accompanied by significant areas of natural open space (technically known as Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace – SANGs). These provide open public space for walking and recreation. They must be provided by developers which also pay for their upkeep. They also help to reduce impact on heathlands in the south of our Borough where there are protected birds.
South of the M4 (Shinfield, Spencers Wood and Three Mile Cross areas) All the development areas have full or outline planning consent, with the majority of the new homes to be built at Shinfield West (1,350 homes) as an extension to the existing Shinfield Village, and 900 homes to be built north and south of Croft Lane in Spencers Wood.
Nature areas
Other developments will take place off Cutbush Lane in Shinfield, off Basingstoke Road in Three Mile Cross; on and between Woodcock Lane, Basingstoke Road and Grazeley Road in Three Mile Cross. As part the SDL, the University of Reading will be developing a major Science and Innovation Park to the north of Shinfield Village (just below the M4). This will bring 18,580 square meters of hi-tech business space to the area.
Please see page 26 of this magazine for updates on the new roads that will serve these new SDLs.
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mmunities: Update Remenha m
Set new community hearts beating Building communities is far more than bricks and mortar – it’s also about inspiring the people moving into the new homes. At Montague Park in Wokingham we’ve been working with the developer, Sovereign Housing and Churches Together among others organising a range of events helping the new residents get to know each other and neighbouring developments.
Wargrave
“This can seem like a bit of challenge in this day and age,” said Joyce Stoner, our Engagement Support Officer. “Gone are the days when people chatted at garden gates for hours on end. So the events we put on try to engage with all ages and interests.” They include this year an Easter egg hunt, a summer BBQ and picnic with treasure trail, a safari hunt, and pub quiz event. “Families with children find it easier to integrate, so we also want to reach people working at home, which can be very lonely, and start a weekly hub where they can come along and work in the company of others if they want.
Charvil
Twyford Ruscombe
Sonning
“We’re also looking for new ideas. Would people fancy a football team for example? I’m happy to oblige with a bucket and sponge!”
Woodley Hurst
More information: • (0118) 974 6275 • joyce.stoner@wokingham.gov.uk
Earley
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SOUTH O F M4 SDL Arborfield
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Construction starts on multi-million pound new secondary school
Construction has started on the new £32.5million secondary school at Arborfield Garrison.
to people what will be on offer when the school is open next year.”
We’ve been working closely with the surrounding community, parents and education provider Bohunt Education Trust (BET) on all aspects of the new school; all of which have been instrumental in improving and enhancing the design of the school beyond the ‘basic’ Department for Education requirements.
For students starting in September 2016, the well-established legacy buildings on the garrison site will be used while construction of the permanent structure is finished on adjacent land.
BET held two very successful open evenings for prospective students and their parents. The new school will use the latest technology as part of the education it provides. Neil Strowger, Chief Executive of BET, said: “We’re very much looking forward to opening the new school and it was great to meet parents and children in the area who share that excitement. From our innovative use of technology, to immersion language teaching, high quality sport in an incredible gymnasium and the planned expeditions - it was brilliant to be able to explain
Gym proves successful for long term health conditions
These legacy buildings are in excellent condition and include purpose-designed classrooms, a lecture theatre and a large library space - all of which were, until very recently, used by the army for training as part of the Apprentice’s College. They will be fitted out in line with BET’s needs and will provide a full suite of facilities for 180 Year 7 students. More information: • www.bohuntwokingham.com • www.wokingham.gov.uk/arborfield-school
Her health conditions meant she couldn’t exercise as often as she would like, as she became breathless quickly. She also lost her appetite so lacked energy.
She has since started working again on a volunteer basis at a local doctor’s surgery. In September, Caroline underwent a cardiology follow up and found out her heart function was back to normal and there were now no signs of any heart wall abnormalities.
Caroline completed an initial consultation and induction with one of our instructors who took some measurements, and discussed her goals. The instructor safely led her through a staged programme that was suited to her individual capabilities.
Caroline has attributed her recovery to attending the gym. “It’s fantastic; I wouldn’t be where I am now without it. I’ve got a good appetite, I can do more and I actually look forward to exercising regularly.”
After attending the long term health conditions gym at Bulmershe Leisure Centre in Woodley, under supervision once a week for the first three months, Caroline went on to top up her exercise at St Crispin’s Leisure Centre in Wokingham.
More information: • www.wokingham.gov.uk/healthzone • (0118) 908 8082
Caroline (68), from Wokingham, was referred to our Long Term Health Conditions Team in April after suffering a mild heart attack and undergoing surgery to fit a stent to one of her coronary arteries.
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Keep up to date with major schemes to keep the Borough moving… Winnersh Relief Road
Shinfield Eastern Relief Road update
Work on its first phase is due to start soon next to Lower Earley Way - between Mill Lane and Showcase Roundabout - to link the B3270 with a new junction in the future.
The M4, between junctions 10 and 11, was due to close overnight for five days late November/ early December to lift the steel beams into place, for the new-six lane bridge between the new relief road and Blackboy Roundabout.
The new road is part of the new Bovis Homes development on the former Hatch Farm Dairies site, and this section will run between King Street Lane and Lower Earley Way.
The bridge is due to open to traffic next February. More information: www.southofm4.com
Wokingham Eastern Gateway We hope to submit our planning application for this, also known as the South Wokingham Distributor Road, next summer. It would run south of the new Montague Park development and includes a rail bridge, replacing Waterloo Road level crossing. It will be built in partnership with Network Rail. More information:
www.wokingham.gov.uk/swdr
A329 Reading Road Cycleway (LSTF 3) Construction of the third section of this on-carriageway cycle route - between Winnersh Crossroads (Sainsbury’s) and Woodward Close - will start in January. When completed, this £2million government-funded cycleway will run from the Three Tuns junction to Coppid Beech roundabout, and is part of the Sustrans National Cycle Network. More information: www.wokingham.gov.uk/a329cycleway
Executive view
Cllr John Kaiser, Executive Member for Planning and Highways “These new roads are the first key parts of the infrastructure for the new communities being created across our Borough in the next few years. We’re on target with them, and they’ll be in place before the bulk of the new homes are built.”
Right way forward Traffic cones, single lanes, and temporary lights – traffic management, as it’s officially called. Local authorities have a statutory duty to co-ordinate roadworks in their areas. We must also make sure this work and the traffic management we put in place complies with the official code of practice and guidance. The site location, nature and length of the work, all shape the traffic management needed for each project. Safety is always first. This means sometimes it’s a single lane closure, while on others it’s the whole highway.
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Each roadwork site is planned in terms of the correct signs used and where, the type of lighting and their location; designated working areas, safety zones, and managing construction traffic. Remember you can sign up for our text and email alerts about traffic and roadworks across the Borough. Visit: www.wokingham.gov.uk/signup
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Smart green lights Some 7,700 ageing lighting columns across the Borough are due to be replaced along with LED lanterns - plus a further 5,400 LED lanterns on existing columns - thanks to a joint project with Slough and Reading borough councils. The lanterns will be fitted with equipment that can control light levels, monitor their operation and communicate any problems or failures back to a central system. The new energy efficient white lights should cut current street lighting energy consumption and carbon footprint by up to 70% for each new lantern. This has the potential of saving the public purse half a million pounds in the first four years alone.
The project is being part funded, up to £8.12million, by a Department of Transport Challenge Fund grant; the remainder is being topped up by capital funding. Work is due to start in April next year and is expected to take two years to complete.
Smart roadworks info Simply click on: www.roadworks.org to find out who is doing the work, when, and for how long - locally and nationally. The live site is optimised for smartphones and can be saved as a favourite. It also has bus and train information.
Bright lights at Cantley Park in Wokingham In October, we officially turned on the new Cantley Park hockey pitch floodlights. The floodlights have been paid for through developer contributions and meet England Hockey’s pitch regulations so people can play sport later in the evening.
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Moving forward with Regeneration 2015 has been a busy year for Wokingham town centre and it looks set to continue during the next few years as we move forward with our ambitious regeneration plans. At Peach Place we have continued securing the last few land rights needed to start building, including making a compulsory purchase order in September. Everything is on track to start on site in early 2017, with work set to be completed by the end of 2018. In July planning permission was granted for a new 529-space multi-storey car park, with a ground floor bowling alley, on the Carnival Pool site. Work on the new car park is expected to start in spring 2016 and should be completed by the end of the year. The application also granted outline consent for a second phase to include a large extension to the existing leisure centre, pool refurbishment, further commercial and leisure floor space and residential units. More work will be done on designing these elements during the next year, so look out for further updates nearer the time. Alongside this work we’ve been finalising designs for the Elms Field phase taking into account public feedback and discussions with businesses who might be interested in coming to Wokingham. At the time of Wokingham Borough News going to print, a planning application was expected to be submitted shortly. As part of the planning process you will have the opportunity to give your comments on our proposals. The Elms Field plans would see a new boutique cinema, foodstore and Premier Inn hotel. The designs would also create a
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high quality town park, framed around the edges by new homes and new retail and leisure units. There would also be a better equipped events area, with power, water, drainage and lighting, as well as a fantastic new children’s play area and spaces for things like specialist markets and entertainment throughout the year. Subject to planning consent and co-ordination with other works in the town, we expect to start work in 2017 and finish in 2018. More information: www.regenerationcompany.co.uk
Executive view Cllr Philip Mirfin, Executive Member for Regeneration and Communities “There has been a lot of positive feedback on our latest proposals from both residents and prospective tenants. Many great businesses, both national and local, have expressed an interest in opening units within the town and we look forward to sharing more details as we move ahead with our plans for the town.”
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Community standing on the rise Community groups in Rainbow Park, Norreys and Gorse Ride took the lead this summer organising some great events helping other people in their areas. Our Community Development Team works with groups and local residents to help them empower others in their neighbourhoods. The Norreys Community Association planned and arranged an affordable day trip to Bournemouth for locals. It knew many local people struggle to afford trips out of the area, but also it was a great way to bring people of all ages together. In Gorse Ride, the local pre-school soft play group relaunched itself as an independent entity, now managed solely by local volunteers. Before that it had run for many years with support from our Community Development Worker. And the Rainbow Community Centre in Winnersh has new equipment and activities, thanks to funding and local support organised by community volunteers in the Centre Forward Action Group. This includes a portable stage, food contributions for the over-50s lunches, craft supplies, and funding for a monthly personal trainer and Zumba sessions for the weekly Fun-Fit session.
Our Community Development Workers are:
Gorse Ride Catriona MacMillan 07785 314 603 catriona.macmillan@wokingham.gov.uk
Rainbow Park Rose Green (0118) 908 8193 or 0776 993 1738 rose.green@wokingham.gov.uk
Woodley, Drovers Way Ashwani Gupta 07825 195 503 ashwani.gupta@wokingham.gov.uk
Shinfield Rise Cherish Risi-Elford 07885 983 396 cherish.rise-elford@wokingham.gov.uk
*Norreys is currently vacant
Young community matters Many of you will be familiar with our Community Wardens who patrol our Borough helping to make sure our neighbourhoods are safe. Our younger residents are also being encouraged to be the ‘eyes and ears’ of the future by joining our Junior Warden Scheme, which has now been running for eight years. The scheme currently runs in six schools across the Borough and is open to Year 6 pupils. Junior Wardens are encouraged to contribute to their communities and be aware of their environment, while also having fun. Through our scheme they can take part in a variety of projects such as litter picking, bike marking and public speaking. Particularly popular activities have been the intergenerational projects where young people meet with older residents to compare ‘then and now’. One such event saw them compare toys across the generations. Mohammed Zain Ahmed helps run the sessions with fellow Wardens, Mark Tomkinson and Zoran Matic. “The scheme is young person driven and we encourage them to talk about the issues concerning them, and what could be done to make them feel safer in their environments,” he said. “Our young people are our future and it’s also their community, so we value their input. We make sure that their sessions are engaging and fun, and we’re very pleased to see so many schools involved.”
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30 Winter 2015
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Winter 2015
What’s on this winter….. December 1 to 24
Saturday February 6
A variety of musical and theatrical performances around Wokingham town. More information at: www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk/advent 6.15pm (weekdays) / 4pm (weekends) Free
Help us celebrate National Libraries Day by calling into your local library to see what’s on offer.
Wokingham Living Advent Calendar
Thursday December 10
Traveller’s Tips and Tales from South America
Thinking about taking a gap year, career break or extended holiday and not sure where to start? Newly returned from South America, Katrina Barnes will be talking about her latest journey and offering a range of advice, from travelling solo to how to budget for your trip. Wokingham Library, 6.30pm, free event but donations for a water project in Nicaragua will be gratefully received. Call (0118) 978 1368 to book a place Friday December 18
Carols in the Church
Join Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr Parry Batth at St Paul’s Church, Reading Road, Wokingham for a mince pie and Christmas carols. 4pm to 5.30pm, free
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National Libraries Day
Monday February 15 to Friday February 19
Half-term adventures
This February half-term is all about adventures. All libraries will have adventure books on display, with activity tables all week. Contact your local library to find out what events will be running.
Winter Reading Challenge for Young People
Open to all library members aged four to 16. Sign-up in your library and get a free collectors card, and borrow and read three books, and you will receive a certificate on completion. Join the challenge from December 11 in any Wokingham Borough library.
Sunday December 20
Mince Pie Paddle and Regatta
Dig out your thermals and take to the water at Dinton Pastures, in a boat of your choice, for the final time this year. To warm you up afterwards we will have hot punch, mulled wine and some festive nibbles. 1.30pm to 4pm, Adults £8, children £6 (ages 4+) Monday December 21
Alice in Neverland
A musical theatre show with the Enchanted Players Theatre Company, suitable for all the family. Woodley Library, 2pm to 3.15pm. £5, please call (0118) 969 0304 to book a place Wednesday December 23
Alice in Neverland
A musical theatre show with the Enchanted Players Theatre Company, suitable for all the family. Wokingham Library, 2pm to 3.15pm £5, please call (0118) 978 1368 to book a place Thursday January 14
Laura Barnett author visit
Laura Barnett, author of the best-selling novel, ‘The Versions of Us’ will be visiting the library for a talk and book signing session. Wokingham Library, 6.45pm to 8pm £3, please call (0118) 978 1368 to book a place February 4, 11, 18, 25
Beading classes
Caroline Marriott will be running four beading craft sessions at Lower Earley Library, no experience necessary. Lower Earley Library, 2pm to 4pm £5 per session, please call (0118) 931 2150 to book a place
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