Wyre Voice 2022

Wyre Council’s community newsletter...

WYRE

VOICE

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A message from Councillor David Henderson, Leader of Wyre Council “Welcome to this year’s edition of Wyre Voice.

Here you can read about the work we have been doing to help our communities and businesses to recover from the pandemic and find out about what’s coming up in 2022.

“

I want to take

a moment to

thank everyone for their efforts over what has been an extremely difficult two years. Thanks to an amazing vaccine drive here in Wyre, we are able to look to the future with positivity. I’m proud to say that the vaccination rate in Wyre is amongst the highest in the country.

I’d like to thank each and every person who has had their vaccine. You have done your bit, protecting yourself and those around you. It’s no mean feat to offer a vaccine to tens of thousands of people in such a short space of time and the effort that has gone into this by the NHS, our local GP practices, health care professionals, council staff and volunteers will never be forgotten.

Looking ahead our focus is very much on tackling climate change and reducing Wyre’s carbon

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footprint is at the centre of our future actions and decisions. You can read more about this on page 14.

Another priority for the council this year is to help businesses get back on their feet and over the last two years we have paid £52 million to local businesses in grants. Our high streets, rural towns and villages all have unique shops and places to eat and drink and I’d encourage you to show your support and shop local.

This is not about merging or abolishing councils – each authority will remain as is. It is the next step in trying to devolve decision making from central government to local government along with the benefits for Lancashire that this will bring.

I’d like to end by recognising some of the brilliant young people we have working for us at Wyre Council. We are proud to be leading the way in offering employment and education opportunities I am pleased to report that to young people through council Leaders across Apprenticeships, trainee the county have made a and Kick Start schemes. historic pledge to work We are always keen to together on a devolution bring new talent to our deal for a Greater workforce, so do keep an Lancashire. A report on eye on our website and the deal was approved social media for future

by Wyre’s councillors in opportunities.”

January and if approved by all 15 Lancashire councils, discussions with government will begin.

”

Please note this edition of Wyre Voice was printed on 10 February 2022 and everything was correct at the time of going to print. The pandemic however has led to an ever changing position on many things and it may be the case that some things have altered. To find out the latest information about Wyre Council and our services please go to www.wyre.gov.uk

Buy tickets online at www.wyrelottery.co.uk

Support local good causes in Wyre and be in with a chance to win up to

£25,000!

It’s free and easy for good causes to register!

Call 01253 578579 or visit www.wyrelottery.co.uk to find out more

CHOOSE A WEDDING VENUE WITH A DIFFERENCE...

The Mount Pavilion Fleetwood Marine Hall Fleetwood Civic Centre Poulton-le-Fylde Thornton Little Theatre

www.wyre.gov.uk/weddings

01253 887693 • weddings@wyre.gov.uk Photo by Christopher Verity Photography

weddings 3

A focus on our town centres

Wyre is home to four town centres, Fleetwood, Cleveleys, Poulton and Garstang. It is our mission to drive up the number of people visiting and the number of businesses opening on our high streets.

To this aim, we have set up town centre partnership boards across Wyre to boost regeneration, gain a better understanding of the current situation in each area and highlight opportunities for improvement.

Future Fleetwood

We helped to set up the town centre partnership board in Fleetwood in 2020.

Key players include representatives from the health care sector, further and higher education providers, Regenda, Affinity, Fleetwood Museum and Fleetwood Hospital Trust. Together the board is looking at a number of projects for the town, focusing on the themes of heritage and culture, the high street, transport, community and residential, climate change, health and wellbeing, digital and technology, business and economy and education and skills. The board is looking to put together proposals and give residents and businesses the chance to provide feedback as the projects progress.

For further information visit www.wyre.gov.uk/futurefleetwood or email future.fleetwood@wyre.gov.uk

Greater Garstang Partnership Board

Members of the Greater Garstang partnership board include Garstang Town Council, local councillors, Regenda, Myerscough College, Lancaster University, local businesses and community champions. A study has been commissioned to consider how Garstang Town Centre might be improved, to address future challenges and identify future opportunities. In December 2021 residents were invited to a preview of the key interventions that could deliver a future vision and create a set of objectives to guide Garstang’s development. Feedback was very positive and a draft of the study prior to adoption is expected to be published this spring.

For further information visit www.greatergarstangpartnership.co.uk

Heritage Action Zone in Fleetwood

In partnership with Historic England, Wyre Council has been working to support Fleetwood’s heritage quarter to improve buildings through the High Street Heritage Action Zone. The council has already offered over £200,000 of grants to key heritage buildings in the area, with more grants available until March 2024.

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Work has begun on buildings in Fleetwood including Fleetwood Museum, The Steamer and St Mary’s Presbytery Church. There are many more projects in the pipeline, with work due on a number of other schemes in the next few months.

The projects are intended to support Fleetwood’s existing heritage and enhance the historic high street and the vibrancy of the town.

Funding is still available for buildings within the heritage quarter.

Visit www.wyre.gov.uk/ heritageactionzone to find out more.

Cleveleys Together

The Cleveleys Together town centre partnership board is made up of local businesses, Victrex, further and higher education providers, Blackpool Transport and community champions.

Together we have commissioned a study to consider how Cleveleys town centre might be improved, to address future challenges and identify possible opportunities. To help the board understand how people perceive the town and what they associate with Cleveleys, a public survey was undertaken in November 2021. The feedback received will inform the proposals for how the town centre could be developed in the future, with proposals expected to be published this spring.

For further information visit www.wyre.gov.uk/cleveleystogether

Working together in Poulton

Supported by consultants from the IBI Group, the council is set to complete an initial assessment of Poulton town centre this spring. The work will seek the input of Poulton Partnership and other stakeholders in identifying the key issues and challenges which might be addressed in future plans for investment. The report will be assessed and the findings will set the focus for any future projects to ensure they are tailored to and best suit Poulton as a town. If you run a business in Poulton and are interested in getting involved, email regeneration@wyre.gov.uk

“

I joined the town centre partnership board for

Cleveleys in June 2021 and since then we have established key themes in terms of regeneration plans for the next 15 years. We have also looked at some short term projects with low or no funding requirements.

We have gone through an initial public consultation and now have a baseline report which will form an action plan. We are working to finalise recommendations which we will then use as the basis for funding bids.

All the board members of Cleveleys Together are really enthusiastic and determined to make a difference for Cleveleys.”

Andy Morton, Chair of Cleveleys Together

Love local, shop local

”

Love great offers? Get rewarded when you shop on your local high street!

Join ‘Local Rewards’ today and get 100 points when you sign up. You’ll start earning points when you shop on your local high street using your existing credit and debit cards. Use your points to claim your choice of rewards. They could be anything from a glass of champagne with your next haircut, a bonus croissant with your morning latté, to money off your next shop.

Sign up as a shopper or a business at www.localrewards.chat

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Business in Wyre Free social media support

We have launched a new scheme with partner Maybe Tech to provide free social media training and support to help business encourage customers back to the high street.

We are offering businesses free access to Maybe Tech; an online platform to help businesses boost their social media presence and increase footfall now that Covid restrictions have been eased.

Included in the membership are tools on how to engage with customers online, reach new audiences and compare your social media profile with other local businesses, all with a view to boost sales. The platform also includes access to the Local Rewards scheme to give residents an incentive to shop locally.

Businesses can sign up to this support for free for 12 months at www.maybetech.com Click ‘upgrade’ when you sign up to recieve your Wyre code.

“

We are hugely excited to be a part of the new digital scheme with Maybe Tech supported by Wyre Council. We believe this scheme will be extremely valuable as we understand the power and importance of social media marketing in this new digital age. We are looking forward to the support and knowledge we will obtain from this collaboration.

Mark Green Owner of Green’s Health Bar in Poulton

Join Wyred Up, our business network

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Wyred Up is a networking group for businesses and organisations located in Wyre or who contribute to Wyre’s economy. Pre pandemic we hosted events for businesses to share best practice, network with likeminded people and hear from industry experts. We are hoping to relaunch these events, along with our Wyred Up social media pages to give local businesses access to support, training and funding opportunities.

If you would like to join Wyred Up, register your interest by emailing regeneration@wyre.gov.uk

”

Stay updated

Sign up to our e-newsletter www.wyre.gov.uk/enews (tick the business in Wyre interest box)

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn @WyredUp

A successful business begins with a healthy team

Together with Active Lancashire and our partners in the Business Health Matters programme, we are offering a range of free courses to Wyre’s small and medium businesses to help them improve the physical and mental health of their workforce.

Funded by the European Social Fund, we are delivering accredited qualifications for employees and business owners to become Workplace Health Champions through a choice of one and three day courses. We will be hosting open courses for people from across the borough to join or we can come into a workplace to deliver the training. Through the Business Health Matters programme, employees can also access courses to improve their basic skills in Maths, English or ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages).

If you are interested in improving the health and wellbeing of your workforce, we would love to hear from you.

Email us at community@wyre.gov.uk

Project Neptune

The ‘Neptune Fish and Food Processing Park’ located on Fleetwood Docks is due to open this spring. We have been working with partners to build a new, modern facility to support the fish processing businesses located at the docks.

Project Neptune will safeguard jobs in the fish processing industry as well as create up to 100 new ones. It is also hoped that future investment in the wider dock site will be unlocked and the success of Project Neptune will lead to further investment.

This ambitious project has been part funded by £4million from the Government’s ‘Getting Building Fund’, as well as capital investment from Wyre Council to purchase the facility and financial support from Lancashire County Council’s Lancashire Economic Recovery and Growth Fund.

The project has been made possible through the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, Associated British Ports and Cassidy & Ashton who are leading on the planning and design of the scheme.

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Supporting local businesses Our officers have been working at pace throughout the pandemic to set up grant payment schemes and issue payments quickly to eligible businesses. The £52 million of grant payments that we have paid so far have helped businesses to build back stronger following the pandemic.

A boost for Garstang High Street

We are pleased to have helped two local businesses in Garstang to move into vacant premises on the high street through our Additional Restrictions Grant (ARG).

Sarah runs Anti-Aging Aesthetics and comments, “I applied for the ARG grant after another local business applied and suggested that I apply for a grant towards setting up in the empty shop next door. Previously, we had a shop in Lancaster, but were forced to close because of the pandemic.

“The grant was incredibly easy to apply for, just a form and a few emails and I was away!

I’d contributed financially to the shop opening myself, but the grant meant I had a bit of cash flow and I wasn’t opening the shop with nothing left.”

Jay runs a Personal Training business, Envision Coaching, next door to Sarah and comments, “Previously I was a personal trainer renting space at a gym and training clients outdoors in Churchtown. This grant meant I was able to go for it and set up my own place. I had enough budget to get started and this money was a huge help, it helped me to bring my wish list forward and do things that would have taken me much longer to achieve. I’m now in Garstang town centre which is a great location and it’s given me the chance to offer employment to local people.

“It’s life changing really, I couldn’t have done what I have done without it. It’s great for the town centre. My brother has recently opened a bar in Garstang too so it feels like together we are bringing new life into the town.”

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Helping bring new stalls to Fleetwood Market We have also been able to help businesses to set up in vacant stalls at Fleetwood Market as part of the ARG scheme. Ian Wright and Audrey McGinley have recently opened Humdinger Dogs at Fleetwood Market thanks to a grant payment earlier this year. They are now up and running in the outdoor part of the market selling delicious gourmet British and German hot dogs and ice creams, including plant based ice cream for dogs!

They told us, “We were considering opening a stall and were given some literature about the grant, which directed us to Wyre’s Economic Development team to enquire.

The team were excellent to deal with, very helpful and made the whole process really easy.

“As we had already put aside a lot of money into opening, it is great for us to be able to benefit from this, as it will enable us to get better equipment and a better choice of stock, as well as helping during the quieter months over the winter period.

We’ve been really popular so far and really pleased to have come on board at the iconic market.”

Health and wellbeing Join Slimming World for free!

If you’re looking to lose weight and give your health a boost, our 12 week free weight management programme might be just the ticket.

So far, over 250 people have signed up and have lost on average 13.8lbs throughout the 12 week programme.

You no longer need a referral from your health professional and provided you meet the criteria you can sign up online by scanning the QR code at the bottom of the page.

You also can sign up online at www.wyre.gov.uk/weightmanagement or call into a local meeting to find out more.

Whether you’d like to spend more time outdoors as a walk or cycle leader, preserve local heritage as a Marsh Mill volunteer or help visitors learn about local ecology at Rossall Point Tower, there are plenty of ways to give back to your community, do something you enjoy, and make new friends. For more information on available opportunities, visit www.wyre.gov.uk/volunteering

Terence O’Neill from Poulton is 75 and has lost 2 stone since joining Slimming World.

“I was initially sceptical about joining Slimming World as I have had weight problems for many years and never been able to lose any significant weight and keep it off. However as my local GP practice was promoting the free 12 week membership I decided it was a no brainer and took up the offer. I have health problems that losing weight would help with.

“Since completing the programme I have decided to renew my membership. I am feeling a lot better health wise and can walk a lot further and for longer, weather permitting!

“All in all the sessions are a great help especially when I feel a bit down. I would recommend anyone who has a weight problem and may be a bit reluctant to join to give it a try. I was not expecting it to be of great benefit to me but it has exceeded my initial thoughts and hopes.”

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We are proud to be working with the national award winning MAN v FAT programme to offer a new weight management programme in Wyre.

Grab your chance to enjoy a weekly five-a-side football match, weekly weigh-in and chat with a weight management coach. We are reducing the cost of the programme to £13.75 per month - half the usual price!

WYRE

READY TO GET FIT?

MAN v FAT Football is for men with a BMI of 30 or over and a staggering 90% of players lose weight and get fitter once they join. MAN v FAT Football is for you even if you haven’t kicked a football since you were a kid. There’s no upper age limit and you can go completely at your own pace, so you don’t need to worry about your fitness levels.

Sessions will be delivered by Fleetwood Town Community Trust and take place at: Poolfoot Farm, Thornton Every Friday 7pm to 9pm Baines High School, Poulton Every Thursday 7pm to 9pm (starting 7 April)

To find out more and to register go to www.wyre.gov.uk/manvfat

Your Move

We are working with Fylde Coast YMCA to pilot the re-launch of the Your Move programme. Initially based at YMCA Thornton leisure centre, there will be some new low impact activity sessions – ideal for people wanting to lose weight and become more active. Discounted sessions are available. For more information and to join the programme, please contact YMCA Thornton leisure centre on 01253 824108.

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Wyre Moving More

We have recently completed a review of our indoor leisure facilities, and are now working on a new physical activity and sport strategy to achieve our vision to get Wyre moving more.

We would like your views on what would help you to become more active, to help us shape future plans around leisure provision.

Complete our online survey at www.wyre.gov.uk/haveyoursay

Wellbeing through nature ‘The Bay’ (formerly known as My Place) is a Wildlife Trust programme set up to help those impacted by isolation and loneliness during the pandemic. It provides an opportunity to connect with the natural world, learn new skills and meet likeminded people. Free coastal nature sessions help you to get back outside in a safe and relaxed environment. Sessions take place once a week in small groups, and include a range of activities aimed at supporting wildlife and helping you to feel happier and healthier.

You do need to pre-register for the sessions but they are free and open to all: Rossall Point Observation Tower, every Tuesday Towers Wood, Thornton-Cleveleys, every Wednesday Wyre Estuary Country Park, Stanah, every Friday To find out more or to register your place contact Mike on 07927 551380 or mmcdonnell@lancswt.org.uk.

The front room

Over Wyre Medical Centre has set up a brilliant new ‘front room’ at the surgery. Designed to feel more like your living room at home than a clinical setting, this social space has been set up to host sessions for those who might be feeling isolated. We have been proud to support this innovative new project and have already run some successful art workshops and reminiscence sessions, alongside the sessions run by the centre such as crafts and aromatherapy.

We are working with staff at the centre to see what other activities can be offered to help people to do something good for the soul!

To see what’s coming up or if you would like to run a group activity please email community@wyre.gov.uk

Fun arts

We’re running a free Fun Arts session every Thursday morning at Garstang Library from 9.30am to 11.30am. This is a dementia friendly activity led by an experienced instructor and is suitable for those living with dementia and their carers. Please bring something to protect your clothing from any paint splashes such as an old shirt. Everyone is welcome!

For more information and to keep updated on our upcoming Over Wyre sessions, visit www.wyre.gov.uk/funarts

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On yer bike!

Sofa to saddle

Our new 8 week training courses at Wyre Estuary Country Park in Thornton are perfect for adults who have never ridden a bike or haven’t for some time. Come and learn the basics and build your confidence. Bikes and helmets can be provided. Every Friday 1.30pm – 3pm.

Social cycling

If you would like to start cycling with others, these short relaxed paced rides might be just the motivation you need. Sessions are held in Fleetwood, Thornton and Hambleton. Bikes and helmets can be provided. Visit www.wyre.gov.uk/cycling to find out more.

Sofa to Saddle and social cycling sessions are free but you do need to book by calling 01995 602125 or email garstangtic@wyre.gov.uk

Wyre wheels

Our programme for anyone who is disabled, has limited mobility or is recovering from injury or illness is back at Memorial Park in Fleetwood. Come along on Fridays where you’ll have the opportunity to ride adapted bicycles including trikes, side-by-sides, hand bikes, quad and wheelchair bikes. 10.30am - 1.00pm, last admission at 12.30pm. For full details please visit www.wyre.gov.uk/cycling

Walking in Wyre There are lots of walking routes across the borough for you to discover on our website and follow at your own pace. Plus, we host over 150 guided walks all year round for all levels of ability, many of which you don’t need to book. Download walking routes and see what guided walks are on at www.wyre.gov.uk/walking

Wellbeing walks - new for 2022

We have designed our wellbeing walks to be accessible to all. They are a great way to give your wellbeing a boost, enjoy some fresh air and meet other people.

Every Saturday from 1.30pm – 2.30pm meeting at Marine Hall, Fleetwood

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Coming soon (starting Monday 2 May) Mondays, 10.30am – 11.30am meeting at Cherestanc Square in Garstang, near the Visit Garstang Centre.

Walking routes for Cabus

Cabus Parish Council has recently published two new walking routes.

The first takes in the historic elements of the area and the second is a lovely canal walk in Cabus and Winmarleigh. To download your copy go to www.cabuspc.org.uk Don’t miss Garstang Walking Festival on 30 April - 8 May 2022, see P16 for more information.

With five centres across Wyre, it’s easy for you to choose where and when you want to keep fit.

Visit ymcayactive.org to find out more.

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Aste iCe! gReenCtw ioN sErv cOlle

Sign up now for our green waste collection service! Collections for 2022/23 will begin in July so make sure you renew your subscription.

Subscriptions for the year cost £35, but sharing your green bin with your neighbour splits the cost for both of you!

Visit www.wyre.gov.uk/greenwaste to find out more and sign up.

Once you have signed up, stickers will be issued just before the collections renew in July 2022.

't dOn tO T e g fOr ScriBe! b u rEs

If you previously paid for your green waste subscription by direct debit, we are no longer offering this service and will not collect payment by this method. You will need to resubscribe. You can do this online at www.wyre.gov.uk/greenwaste 13

Climate change Wyre Council has declared a Climate Emergency and committed to reducing the council’s emissions by at least 78% by 2035, before achieving net zero by 2050. We also plan to support the borough to achieve the same target.

Climate change is causing devastating impacts across the globe. As a coastal borough, Wyre is particularly at risk of sea level rise and flooding. It is therefore crucial that we all do our bit to reverse these changes, and reduce our impact on the environment.

At Wyre Council, we’re leading by example. So far, we have: • Become the first carbon literate council in Lancashire and received a Bronze level accreditation in recognition of our awareness of the impacts of carbon dioxide in everyday activities • Begun a review to look at how mitigating the impact of climate change can be better considered in our Local Plan • Begun the planting of 25,000 new trees across Wyre • Begun the process of installing rapid charging points in our car parks for taxi drivers and residents, and added electric vehicles to our fleet • Worked with partners to continue to implement flood prevention schemes across Wyre • Introduced a ban on the release of sky lanterns and helium balloons on council land to reduce plastic waste locally • Begun to trial meadow creation as part of our grassland management, letting some of our open spaces grow to encourage wildflowers We know there’s still a long way to go; but together, we can make a difference.

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Read more about our work and what you can do to tackle climate change at www.wyre.gov.uk/climatechange

Climate change is a collective problem that we all face, but if we all take individual action to reduce our impact on the environment, we can make a big difference. Here are some actions you can take to help: 1. Reduce the amount of meat and dairy you eat: Animal agriculture accounts for roughly 15% of global emissions, with beef and lamb accounting for the largest footprint. Try meat free Mondays or try out some vegan and vegetarian recipes to include in your weekly meals.

2. Increase the energy efficiency of your home: Insulating your loft, water pipes and your boiler can save carbon, money on your bills and make your home warmer and healthier. Switching to a renewable energy provider, installing your own solar panels or heat pumps, and fitting a smart meter to keep track of your energy usage can also lead to big energy savings.

3. Holiday closer to home: Flying accounts for a significant percentage of an individual’s carbon footprint, so cutting down on international flights makes a massive difference on emissions.

Holidaying closer to home also saves money and supports the local economy.

Altogether, driving less, using public transport, walking and cycling where possible can save money, increase your fitness and improve local air quality. See page 12 for ways to get out walking and cycling.

4. Talk about it! Talking to friends and family about climate change, and your efforts to reduce your carbon footprint, helps to spread the word and encourage more people to take action. It may seem like a daunting task, but if we all made these changes to our lifestyles, together we can make a big impact.

Flood protection Climate change is a particular threat to the Fylde Coast owing to rising sea levels and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. We are working with our partners on a number of flood protection schemes to protect homes and businesses in Wyre:

Wyre Beach and Dune Management Scheme

A £42 million scheme to help raise and stabilise beaches from Cleveleys to Fleetwood. The scheme will protect over 11,000 properties and will commence this year.

Environmental Community Owned Coastal Buffer Strips project (ECO-CoBS)

We have successfully bid for £7.2 million of funding to develop coastal resilience through the creation of natural buffer strips around the coast. Interventions such as developing salt marsh, creating dune systems and intertidal lagoons and reclaiming redundant brownfield sites will help to mitigate the consequences of climate change including flood risk and the loss of biodiversity.

Wyre Natural Flood Management Scheme

We are supporting this project led

by Wyre River’s Trust to reduce rapid runoff during heavy rainfall reducing the flood risk to Scorton, Garstang, Churchtown, St Michaels and Great Eccleston. We have also been working with the Rivers Trust on smaller scale interventions in the downstream catchment including flood storage areas in Thornton Cleveleys at White Carr Lane, Stanah and a development at King Georges playing fields, which will reduce flood risk and provide carbon and biodiversity benefits.

Wyre’s Flood Forum

We are continuing to build community resilience through the Wyre flood forum which is one of the longest established flood forums in the country. The forum consists of 11 community flood action groups (FLAGs), Wyre councillors and officers, Lancashire County Council, The Environment Agency, United Utilities, the Rivers Trust and local residents. Together they work to identify and resolve flooding issues. The forum has resolved several long-term flooding problems and provides communities with support during flood events.

We also coordinate drainage works with other authorities. The Making Space for Water group, a partnership of technical officers from key agencies, is currently undertaking significant improvement works in Hambleton, Thornton and Preesall in response to recent flooding. Residents are encouraged to report any drainage issues to Wyre Council and these will be raised with the relevant authority. Please email engineering@wyre.gov.uk or contact your local FLAG. For further information about the flood forum, plus ways you can protect your home and ways to prepare for flooding visit www.wyre.gov.uk/flooding

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Coming up Garstang Walking Festival 30 April - 8 May 2022

If you are a seasoned walker or just fancy getting out for a stroll, Garstang Walking Festival has something for everyone to enjoy. It’s the best way to explore Garstang and the beautiful surrounding countryside including the Forest of Bowland. There are short walks, sunset strolls and more strenuous hikes, as well as electric tramper vehicles to hire to make sure that everyone can enjoy our great outdoors. We have the friendliest walking guides who know so much about the local area, its history and the biodiversity so you’ll get to learn a bit more about the area too.

To see what’s on go to www.wyre.gov.uk /garstangwalkingfestival or call the Visit Garstang Centre on 01995 602125 to find out more and book your place.

Free holiday club programme for children on free school meals.

Funded by the Department for Education, our Holiday Activity and Food clubs are back this Easter. Held in partnership with providers across Wyre, the clubs are free for primary and secondary aged school children who are eligible for benefits-related free school meals. There are also specific provisions available for children with special educational needs or disabilities (SEND), or additional needs.

For details of the Easter holiday clubs visit www.wyre.gov.uk/holidayclub

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The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

2022 is the year of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, a chance for communities to come together to celebrate the Queen’s historic reign.

On Sunday 5 June, why not bring the celebrations to the heart of your community and take part in a Big Jubilee Lunch? People across the country are encouraged to celebrate their connections and get to know each other a little bit better, coming together in a spirit of fun and friendship.

A Big Jubilee Lunch can be big or small - street party or picnic, a cuppa with your neighbour or a garden barbeque.

Visit our website for tips and ideas for hosting an event and for details of how to apply to host a street party.

We will also be working with local communities and are planning a series of events to mark the celebrations including beacon lighting, outdoor theatre and a tea party celebration.

Visit www.wyre.gov.uk/jubilee to see what’s on.

#HAF2022

r r e t e t s s Eaa E y y a a d i d l i Hool H ! s b u l C

Love your local market

We are lucky to have so many great markets here in Wyre. From the award winning Fleetwood Market which has over 250 indoor and outdoor stalls, to lively markets in our town centres. If you’re looking for local produce on your doorstep check out: Fleetwood Market, Adelaide Street, open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday Poulton Market, every Monday in the town centre Cleveleys Market, every Wednesday (throughout the spring/summer seasons) Garstang Market, every Thursday on the high street Great Eccleston, every Wednesday on the village square www.wyre.gov.uk/markets

Award winning Victorian market with 250 stalls and new outdoor street food courtyard

· VISIT ·

A day out for everyone to enjoy! From gourmet street food to doggy ice-cream, finely-crafted jewellery to designer clothing, bargain household goods to hand-made gifts and haberdashery - you’ll find it all and more at Fleetwood Market.

Follow us at FleetwoodMarket

We’re dog friendly !

FleetwoodMkt

www.fleetwoodmarket.co.uk

Find out what’s on where you live

Wyre plays host to events all year round, from scarecrow festivals to food and drink shows, agricultural shows, and favourites such as Tram Sunday and the annual tractor pull! Plus Wyre Council organises a brilliant year round calendar of walks, cycle rides, conservation days, family events and much more as part of our mission to encourage residents to enjoy the great outdoors and improve their health and wellbeing.

• Follow us on social media @WyreCouncil and @DiscoverWyre • Take a look at our Great Outdoors calendar of activities and events at www.wyre.gov.uk/greatoutdoors.

• Visit www.wyretheatres.co.uk to see what great shows and events are coming up at Marine Hall and Thornton Little Theatre or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram – search Marine Hall and Thornton Little Theatre.

• Drop into our Visit Garstang Centre at Cherestanc Square or our Visit Fleetwood Centre at Marine Hall and chat to the friendly staff about what’s on in the local area.

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Entertaining audiences for over 80 years, enjoy the exhilaration of live theatre, music, comedy and more at Wyre Theatres…

27 MAY

THE ULTIMATE TRIBUTE

TICKETS £22

An evening of classical favourites from England’s No. 1 brass band

SATURDAY 28TH MAY - 7.30pm MARINE HALL FLEETWOOD

TOUR

TICKETS

£16

16+ Photograph by Idil Sukan

TICKETS £24

11 JUNE

THE GREATEST HITS OF

FOSTER & ALLEN featuring

TONY ALLEN TICKETS £25

Meeett atincdkets gre £75

9 JULY 8PM - TICKETS £25 Coming soon...

Panto 2022

22 OCT

21 OCTOBER £22.50 Tea Dance Marine Hall Fleetwood every Monday at 2pm Harmony and Health Singing Group Thornton Little Theatre every Tuesday at 10.30am Marine Hall Fleetwood every Tuesday at 1.30pm

M A R I N E H A L L F L E E TWOOD T H O R N TO N L I T T L E T H E AT R E

Buy your tickets online now at

www.wyretheatres.co.uk

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Parks and open spaces

We are lucky to have so many parks and open spaces for everyone to enjoy here in Wyre and are constantly making improvements. Here’s just a few of the projects coming up this year:

Fleetwood Custom Ho

Custom House Lane

Following a public consultation in 2021, building work to create a new urban park in Fleetwood is due to begin this spring.

The project will create ‘Custom House Square’ on the area of Custom House Car Park which overlooks Fleetwood Market on Victoria Street. It is hoped that the space will bring a breath of fresh air to the area; with new lighting, seating, additional trees and planting along with room to hold occasional small events.

The new square will complement work to enhance the area and attract shoppers to the market and the new outdoor market area. In the future, Fleetwood Museum visitors using the car park will also be encouraged to use the square as a route from which to access a proposed new entrance off Custom House Lane.

The project is being made possible by Historic England’s Heritage Action Zone scheme which looks to fuel economic, social and cultural recovery to a select number of high streets in the country.

King George’s Playing Field

We are undertaking works to King George’s playing field in Thornton to create a new footpath, plant new trees and create a network of wetlands and ponds. The work will create habitats for biodiversity and help to restore Royles Brook to make space for water, help improve river water quality and aid better drainage of surface water from neighbouring sports pitches.

Work begins in spring 2022 and the majority of works will be complete in summer 2022 with tree planting taking place in winter 2022/3.

Landscape Projects | Landscape Architects

Carrs Green Common

Thanks to a grant from the Lancashire Environmental Fund, the Parish Council at Inskip-with-Sowerby have undertaken improvements to this unique piece of wetland near Inskip. The footpath across the fields from the village onto Carrs Green Common has been opened up with a new boardwalk and a gravel pathway, which has proved popular with walkers. Two new freshwater ponds have also been created to provide fantastic environments for both birds and bugs. Look out for information panels coming soon, describing the Common and the wildlife that can be seen.

Further work is planned for later this year, if you would like to get involved as a volunteer please contact us at countrysideservice@wyre.gov.uk

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Wyre’s budget Council tax is made up of a number of payments to the authorities that provide services in the area. Below gives you an idea of how your bill is split*:

Wyre Council is the billing authority and collects council tax on behalf of all these agencies. However, Wyre’s portion represents just under 11%* (on a band D property) of the total amount of your bill, with the majority being passed to Lancashire County Council.

For every £1 the council recieves in income it spends it in the following areas*:

At 57p per day for a Band D property based on 2021/22 rates*, we deliver a wide range of critical services, providing good value for money for our residents.

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*These figures are based on 2021/22 council tax rates. 2022/23 figures were not available at the time of printing Wyre Voice, but they can be seen on your bill enclosed.

Council Tax

Explanatory notes

These notes form part of your Council Tax bill. This also relates to the County Council, Police and Crime Commissioner and the Fire Service. For information about how we spend Wyre’s portion of your Council Tax bill, go to www.wyre.gov.uk.

Council Tax is charged on most dwellings whether rented or owned, empty or occupied. Each household gets one bill, although occupants may be jointly responsible for payment.

Each home is placed in a valuation band.

It is the Valuation Office Agency, not the council, who allocates this valuation band to every home. The council uses the band to work out your Council Tax bill.

You may be able to appeal against the valuation band if you have moved in during the past six months, or there has been a change in the building or the physical state of the local area which could affect the value of your home.

For more information visit www.voa.gov.uk or call 03000 501 501. You must continue to pay your Council Tax until a decision has been made about your appeal.

Reducing your Council Tax

Not everyone has to pay the full amount.

There are several ways your bill can be reduced depending on your personal circumstances or circumstances relating to the property itself, for example, if it’s unoccupied and unfurnished.

If we already know about your circumstances, the reduction will be shown on your bill.

Properties exempt from Council Tax

We do not charge Council Tax for homes which are lived in only by: • people under the age of 18 or full time students (including halls of residence) and/or school leavers or people who are severely mentally impaired.

We do not charge Council Tax for empty properties which are: • owned by a charity (exempt for up to six months).

• empty because the owner/tenant has died and the grant of probate or letters of administration have not been obtained, or have only been obtained within the past six months.

• the responsibility of a trustee following bankruptcy, or a mortgage lender following repossession.

• empty, but usually lived in by a student or a minister of religion or a prisoner or someone who has moved to receive or provide personal care.

• not able to be leased separately or part of forces accommodation, including married quarters and temporary accommodation for members of visiting overseas forces.

You must tell us immediately if you have any change of circumstance that might affect the amount of reduction.

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Council Tax Discounts

If only one adult lives in a property as their main home, Council Tax is reduced by 25%. When counting adults, we do not include: • full time students, student nurses, apprentices and youth training trainees.

• people staying in hospitals, care homes, prisons or certain hostels or night shelters.

• care workers working for low pay (usually charities).

• people caring for someone with a disability who is not their spouse, partner or child under 18.

• 18 and 19 year olds who are at school or have just left school.

• people who are severely mentally impaired.

• members of visiting forces.

• members of religious communities (monks and nuns).

Reductions for annexes

You do not have to pay Council Tax for an annex if it forms part of a single property that includes another dwelling that cannot be let separately from the main building due to a planning restriction, or is occupied by a dependent relative, for example a person aged over 65, or someone severely mentally impaired or substantially and permanently disabled. Where an annexe is rated separately and used by the occupier of the main building, or a member of their family, a 50% reduction will apply.

Disabled relief

If, after disregarding people in the above classes, there is only one adult living in the property, Council Tax is reduced by 25%.

Your bill may be reduced if you, or someone who lives with you, has a permanent disability and there are certain features in the home which are essential, or of major importance, to the disabled person’s wellbeing. These features include: • a room other than a bathroom, kitchen or toilet, which is used mainly by the disabled person.

• an additional bathroom or kitchen for use by the disabled person.

• extra space inside your home for use of a wheelchair.

Empty property discount

Appeals

If a property is unoccupied because it is in need of, or awaiting, major repair or structural alteration, a 25% discount applies for a maximum of 12 months.

If a property is unoccupied and substantially unfurnished, a 100% discount is awarded for one month.

Thereafter the full Council Tax charge becomes payable.

A property that is no one’s main home, but remains furnished, will attract a 100% Council Tax charge.

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Explanatory notes

If you have been refused a discount, exemption or relief, or don’t think you should be paying Council Tax, tell us why you think your bill is incorrect.

We will look at your case again and we might ask for more information. If we do not change our decision and you still don’t agree, you can appeal to the Valuation Tribunal. See www.valuationtribunal.gov.uk or contact us for details.

You must continue to pay your Council Tax until a decision has been made about your appeal. If your appeal is successful we will refund any overpaid Council Tax to you.

Council Tax support

Council Tax online

This can be claimed by anyone who is responsible for payment of Council Tax and in receipt of a low income. The amount of Council Tax support you receive will depend on the income, savings and the circumstances of all those living in the household.

Did you know you can now receive your council tax bill online, plus you can check your account and payments, set up and amend a direct debit, or report a change in your circumstances.

To register for your online account go to www.wyre.gov.uk/mycounciltax

Second adult rebate You may be eligible to get help to pay your Council Tax if you are a pensioner and share your home with another adult, who is not your partner and is on a low income. It does not matter how much income and capital you have. The calculation of how much you are entitled to is based on the income and savings of the second adult, or adults, who share your home.

For further information, visit our website at www.wyre.gov.uk

How we collect and use information Lawfulness of Processing Processing your data is necessary in the exercise of official authority vested in the council. Wyre Council (The data controller) will use and share your personal information where we have a legal obligation to do so. We will use your data in the main to administer Council Tax and for the general prevention and detection of fraud. In order to do this, we will share your data with the National Audit Office to participate in the National Fraud Initiative exercise, the Department for Work and Pensions, the Valuation Office Agency, the courts, and debt enforcement/ collection/tracing agencies employed by the council. These agencies include Bristow Sutor, Jacobs and Rossendales.

Data Retention We will retain any financial data we hold for you on your Council Tax account for a period of six years following the last date that there is any activity on that account.

After six years the data will be deleted from our records.

Your rights You have the right as the data subject to access your data. Please go to www. wyre.gov.uk for further information. If you feel the data we hold is inaccurate or incomplete, you are entitled to have your personal data rectified. You also have the right to contact the Information Commissioner if you are unhappy with how we are handling your personal data. You can contact them using the address; The Information Commissioner’s Office, Wycliffe House, Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5AF.

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Manage your accounts online with

myWyre

s perles Go pa r u o y w and vie line! bills on

A new online service to help residents manage their accounts.

You can use your myWyre account to: • View and update your account information, such

Account Details

as change of address or change of circumstances • View your council tax payments, balance and bills

£

Latest Bill

• Download your current bill and view previous years • Set up and amend Direct Debits • Access our online benefits services • Start, save, track and complete online forms securely • Sign up to our e-newsletters To access your council tax information through your myWyre account you will need your council tax account number and your unique online reference number that can be found with your latest bill.

For more information and to register your myWyre account, go to www.wyre.gov.uk/aboutmywyre Vector graphics by stories at www.freepik.com

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