your
www.croydon.gov.uk
ISSUE 79 – WINTER 2017
Your main source of community news
7,000 jobs and 1,000 new homes for local people – page 3
Uniting Croydon in encouraging young people to make positive life choices – pages 4 & 5
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WINTER 2017
7,000 reasons to be cheerful As you may have heard by now, Croydon received a further massive vote of confidence last month when global retail giants Westfield and Hammerson received the green light from Croydon's planning committee and confirmed they would be starting building works in the town centre in 2019. The redevelopment of the Whitgift Centre will deliver high quality retail, including a brand new flagship Marks and Spencer store, restaurants, a cinema, 1,000 new homes and much more, which will make Croydon London’s premier retail destination for decades to come. Importantly, it will bring up to 7,000 new full time equivalent jobs to our town centre once up and running as well as hundreds of construction jobs during the build. As council leader I am pleased to report that all our hard work investing in our borough, whether that's the new Fairfield Halls, cleaner streets, new sports centres or facilities for young people, has had the additional benefit of ensuring Croydon is where companies like Westfield and Hammerson want to invest. I am delighted to say that as part of our discussions with the Croydon Partnership – the joint venture between Westfield and Hammerson - they have agreed to having a training academy that will prioritise local people for the thousands of jobs that will be coming, as well as ensuring those who perhaps don't have current work experience, are as prepared as possible for their job interviews. It's also great news that Westfield and Hammerson are London Living Wage employers, and are committed to working in partnership with the council and others to provide what truly is the best for Croydon. So on that positive note can I wish everyone a happy and peaceful festive season, with a special mention to all those - including some council staff - having to work over the festive period.
Cllr Tony Newman Leader of the council @cllrtony
Highlights Whitgift plans approved......................3 The plans for the redevelopment of the Whitgift Shopping Centre have received the thumbs-up from the council.
Choose your future....4/5 The new council-backed initiative is working to encourage young people to make the right choices that will affect their futures.
Meet the new Fairfield boss............. 6 Neil Chandler previously worked at the much-loved entertainment centre as operations manager – now he’s running the whole show.
Croydon remembers.....7 A year on from the dreadful Sandilands tram derailment, Croydon’s communities have pulled together to remember that fateful day.
Christmas schedules.............. 12/13 All you need know regarding when your bins will be emptied, when your local library is open and where you can recycle your Christmas tree.
Leisure for everyone............... 16/17 Check out Croydon’s great outdoors and free health and well-being services to get you feeling your best for the new year.
To keep up to date with what’s going on, subscribe to Your Croydon and receive a free weekly email that’s full of news and information about your borough. Go to www.croydon.gov.uk/subscribe and visit
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For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
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Whitgift Centre redevelopment
given green light The exciting transformation of the town centre is set to begin in 2019, bringing with it up to 7,000 new jobs and 1,000 new homes for local people. The Croydon Partnership’s £1.4bn redevelopment of the Whitgift Shopping Centre was unanimously given the green light at a meeting of the council’s planning committee last month. The Partnership – the joint venture between Westfield and Hammerson – was first granted planning permission in February 2014, but submitted an enhanced outline planning application in October 2016, which included more housing, a third level of retail and leisure and a new flagship Marks and Spencer store. Hundreds of construction jobs will be on offer prior to the build getting under way and the exciting mixed used scheme will also bring with it thousands of other roles in over 300 shops, restaurants, cafés and leisure facilities such as a multi-screen cinema and bowling alley. This is a major milestone for the project and a huge vote of confidence for Croydon. It shows investors rightly
recognise Croydon as a place to live, to set up a business creating new jobs, and to spend free time. Leader of the council, Councillor Tony Newman said: “The creation of 7,000 new jobs and 1,000 new homes is fantastic news for local people. It is very important Croydon residents benefit from this exciting scheme and that’s why we have been doing everything we can to bring the redevelopment of the Whitgift Centre to fruition. It’s now time for the Partnership to crack on and build it.”
(left to right) John Burton OBE, Westfield Europe’s head of development; Peter Cole, chief investment officer of Hammerson; and council leader Councillor Tony Newman. Park Street
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WINTER 2017
Choosing
their future
London’s largest youth population is pulling together under the banner of a new councilbacked initiative to show they can take control of their lives, for the better. The Choose Your Future campaign aims to unite Croydon in encouraging young people to make positive life choices. Many young people are already backing the campaign, which asks them to think about the choices they make – whether it’s about their dream job, goals in life, or staying safe – and asks residents, businesses and local organisations to support them in this. With one in three people living in croydon under 25 – the future is theirs and they have the potential to make Croydon even better. The campaign, launched in late October, came out of the priorities agreed at the borough’s first Youth Congress, in July this year. It celebrates and promotes young people’s achievements, while continuing to give them a real voice on local issues. July’s congress saw young delegates identify their priority local issues, leading to the development of the Choose Your Future campaign around positive life choices. The congress will become an annual conversation between young people and community leaders. Plans have already been announced to elect a young
mayor and deputy mayor next spring. You can find out more about the campaign and how to support it at www.choose-your-future.com Hear what young people choose to do in the video at https://youtu.be/SS4VUU_RXOY
croydon has the largest population of 0-24-year-olds in london over 28,800
over 94,435
0-17
18-24
over 123,000 = 1 in 3
years
years
A
3238 a levels taken
91.7%
of croydon young people are in education, employment or training.
53%
at university
109 601 231 knife injury victims
up 21%
offences using a knife
up 5%
since november 2016 there have been 109 victims of knife injury AND FIVE FATAL STABBINGS (under 25s).
knives collected in amnesty may-september 2017
For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
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Taking knives off the streets Young achiever winner backs campaign Shaniqua Benjamin, winner of this year’s Young Achiever of the Year award, pledges her support for the campaign in this video – www.youtube.com/ watch?v=A0oHGmPoYqE&feature=youtu.be Shaniqua founded Young People Insight (YPI), a platform that gives a voice to young people. Through forum discussions, poetry nights and social events it encourages community engagement and provides young people with the opportunity to talk about the topics affecting them. She said: “Whether it’s choosing to work hard, choosing to be determined, choosing your career – you might not know where you’re going, but choosing to actually have a future, that’s key.”
The past year saw 101 knife-crime victims in Croydon who were under 25, a 16% increase on the previous year. There were also four fatal stabbings. While the vast majority of young people are not involved in youth violence, there are very real fears and challenges for some. Young people from St Mary's school volunteered their time to act in a short film produced by the Youth offending service, Croydon police and the Palace for Life Foundation. The film, which will form part of a one-hour workshop, encourages young people to consider the consequences of carrying and using a knife.
Successful careers
Supporting the campaign: Councillor Alisa Flemming (centre) with Croydon College students Loredana, Nordia, Bradley and Rachel.
Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for anyone keen to kick-start their career by gaining qualifications and valuable experience while getting paid. The campaign is calling on local organisations and businesses to consider giving young people a step up by hiring local apprentices, offering work experience or career mentoring. Hoping to set an example, the council has welcomed 24 young recruits to Bernard Weatherill House to start its new apprenticeship programme. The apprentices are backing the campaign and we catch up with their experiences of work at the council on page 21. And, on 26 October, Willmott Dixon, TfL, Superdrug and Kier were among the employers that turned up with live vacancies at the Croydon Live! jobs and training fair.
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WINTER 2017
BACKING
CROYDON’S
CULTURE-TITLE BID
C ROY D O N
With thousands voting for the borough in an online poll, Croydon is submitting its formal bid to win a plum prize from the Mayor of London. Croydon is a front runner in the race for the title London Borough of Culture – and, with £1.1m up for grabs, it’s a race worth winning. Landing the title would kick-start an exciting year of festivals and events, and see Croydon’s cultural offerings promoted across the capital. Local arts organisations have been given the chance to feed into the bid
proposals, while thousands have already voted for Croydon in an ITV people’s poll. Elizabeth Williams, a local writer and volunteer, said: “Croydon’s a beautiful place to live and should be proud of what’s happening here.” And local resident Helen Sayers added: “Croydon’s untapped potential means we have a plethora of raw talent
and diverse culture just waiting to be explored.” To add your voice, visit www. Croydon2019.London – you can find a link there to the ITV poll and it’s not too late to cast your vote. While not an official part of the competition, it proves just how many Londoners support Croydon and back its bid for 2019.
STEERING FAIRFIELD INTO THE FUTURE It promises to be a busy year ahead for the man taking over the running of the borough’s premier entertainment venue. As the newly appointed venue director for Fairfield Halls, Neil Chandler has just 12 months to prepare for the first performances in the iconic building following its £30m refurbishment. Neil will be responsible for guiding the venue’s fortunes and promises to deliver a rich, diverse, and inclusive programme of events, as well as strong links to the local community. He said: “Leading Fairfield Halls into this new era is both an honour and privilege, and my ambition is to ensure the programme of events and activities appeals to both local and national audiences. “The venue should provide a real hub for community events, but, at the same time, I want us to be putting on shows that will pull people to Croydon from right across the country.
“We have an amazing space in a brilliant location and we’re in a strong position to attract some top names. “The fact we will have our first full year of operation in 2019 really does mean it makes perfect sense for the Borough of Culture title to come to Croydon for that year. “The award is designed to go to the borough that shows it can use the Mayor’s support to bring about a change – and that’s exactly what we plan to do once the Fairfield Halls reopen at the end of 2018. “We plan to change people’s perceptions about Croydon as a cultural destination and put the borough firmly up there in terms of the region’s best entertainment destinations.”
For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
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CROYDON REMEMBERS
November saw the first anniversary of the Sandilands tram derailment and was marked with the unveiling of two dedicated memorials.
Croydon fell silent as the community came together to mark the first anniversary of the Sandilands tram derailment. Hundreds attended a civic ceremony in New Addington, where a permanent tribute was unveiled in honour of those who lost their lives and the many others affected by the tragedy was unveiled. The public ceremony followed a private visit by the families who lost loved ones, to Sandilands, where a permanent memorial in tribute to those who died was unveiled. The stone plinth, located close to the incident site, has been inscribed with the names of the seven people who, sadly, lost their lives, as well as the date of the incident. Both memorials have been surrounded by saffron crocuses, the flower associated with Croydon, to provide a peaceful area of reflection that can be visited all year round. Councillor Tony Newman, leader of the council, spoke at the civic ceremony, which was attended by Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, and representatives of the emergency services and other agencies’ staff who responded to the incident both on the day and in the immediate aftermath. A ceremony led by the deputy council leader Councillor Alsion Butler, was simultaneously held outside the Town Hall, where the civic flag was lowered and a minute’s silence observed. Councillor Newman said: “Croydon will never forget the tragic events of Paula Phillips, sister of Donald Collett.
Mayor of London Sadiq Khan meets family members of Donald Collett.
that day, nor will it ever forget the seven people who lost their lives, their families and others affected by this terrible incident.” Mayor of London Sadiq Khan added: “Our thoughts and prayers remain with their families and loved ones, and all of those who were injured and affected by that dreadful day.” British Transport Police Sergeant Chris Morbey said: “Words cannot describe how sorry we are for the loss that seven families experienced that day and the grief they continue to feel. It was a dreadful event that should never have happened.”
Sergeant Chris Morbey is comforted by Danielle Whetter, the granddaughter of victim Phillip Logan.
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WINTER 2017
h Bright future witor
new leisure centre operat The signing of a contract with a new operator promises a bright future for Croydon’s councilowned leisure centres. Major investment, big improvements and significant cost savings are on the cards with the announcement of GLL as the new operator of the borough’s five leisure centres. The contract starts in March and will save taxpayers £1m-plus by 2021. A revised membership and charging structure will provide concessions and discounts and the gym facilities at South Norwood, Thornton Heath, Purley and Waddon will be refitted with state-of-the-art equipment. The cafés at Thornton Heath and Waddon will also be modernised, and extra money will be invested in and around the newly opened Ashburton Hall. All centres will meet demanding industry-quality standards. Alongside the centres, the revised contract covers approximately 30 football pitches and tennis courts in the borough’s parks. GLL will have responsibility for bookings and for increasing the numbers of people making use of these facilities. Chris Symons, GLL’s director of development, said: “I’m
delighted GLL has been chosen as the preferred partner to deliver Croydon’s leisure service. “We bring 25 years of experience and stability in the leisure industry with the remit to get more people more active more often. “GLL will put affordability and accessibility at the heart of its offer to the people of Croydon.” The council has ensured GLL fully complies with the London Living Wage and offers employment opportunities for local people.
A VOICE FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN CARE Young people looked after by the council are being empowered to shape the services they receive. Working to improve services for all children and young people, lookedafter youngsters, supported by social workers, have come together to form the relaunched children-in-care council. Meeting fortnightly, the c-i-c council will develop its own agenda, the content of which will determine when senior managers from Croydon Council’s children’s services team and members of the corporate parenting panel are invited to attend. The council will be supported by peer mentors like care-leaver Chinelo Chizea, 18, who explained: “Given my history as a child in care, I will be able
to relate to these young people in care in the best way I can; it’s about having a positive impact on their lives. “Young people, especially those in care, deserve to have their voices heard.” This is one of many immediate steps the council has taken to improve children’s social care following Ofsted’s judgement in September. Two new teams of social workers are in place, a recruitment-andretention drive is under way and the council has strengthened administrative support to free frontline social workers. The council will submit its formal action plan to Ofsted this month. Further information can be found at http://croydonlcsb.org.uk/2017/09/ children-in-care-council/
For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
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Palace up their game for fans with disabilities Two sensory rooms have been built at Selhurst Park as the club strives to make games more accessible for fans with a range of disabilities. Crystal Palace’s strong community commitment has been strengthened this season with investment in special facilities for their less-able fans. In addition to increasing wheelchair capacity from 57 to 128, there is now a fully compliant and accessible sensory room for supporters with autism or sensory impairments. The new Whitehorse Lane stand sensory room is fully accessible, sound proofed, features mood lighting and a number of different sensory equipment items and children's toys. A second sensory room has been created in the existing TV studios with an impressive pitch view, available when not in use by TV broadcasters. Ellie, 14, from New Addington, tried out the room at the home game against Chelsea. She said: “Thank you very much for inviting me down to
Pam Groves, the club’s disabled liaison officer, with Ellie, mum Sarah and step-sister Ellis in the new sensory room.
try the sensory room out. Having it there was good because if it was too overwhelming watching the match outside, I could go and watch it in the sensory room. “I really enjoyed my first experience of watching a Crystal Palace game and, to top it all off, they won. “Thank you for my teddies and for being there to help us out on the day. I'm already thinking about what match I want to go to next.”
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WINTER 2017
New school places offer greater choice for families Council sets out exciting plans that will see more school places and a new school for children with special needs. More mainstream primary and secondary school places in areas of greatest demand across Croydon, plus a new special school for pupils with special educational needs, feature in plans set out by the council. Two new, six-form entry, mainstream, secondary free schools are due to open in 2018 and 2019 in the north and south of the borough, subject to Local Plan approval next year. In September, extra places became available at The Archbishop Lanfranc School, and the Harris Federation is to establish a further new secondary free school in the borough, with dates to be confirmed. Meanwhile, the creation of a new, 150-place, specialist free school for students with special educational needs, and expansion of existing special schools, will significantly improve the local offer for these children and young people. Two new primary schools – two-form and three-form entry – are also due to be opened in September 2019. Across the mainstream schools, a total of 430 new Year 7 secondary school places, 270 reception primary school places, 150 special educational needs places in the new special school, plus extra places at existing schools will come online over the next three years. As London’s growth borough, Croydon has an excellent
Nature Connectors With amazing parks, woodlands and open spaces on its doorstep, Croydon is one of London’s greenest boroughs. However, it has been found that people from black and minority ethnic (BME) communities traditionally access them less frequently than others. Designed to understand and overcome barriers to accessing nature among BME communities, Nature Connectors is a new six-week course run entirely outdoors in Croydon’s wild and green spaces. Participants learn woodland skills, and gain confidence to lead and guide others. Supported by Croydon’s BME Forum and funded by Croydon Council, the project has so far run a successful pilot cohort. One happy nature connector said: “It’s been wonderful – I’ve learnt so much… about the trees, knowing the names, and feeling safe, not feeling foolish about it…” A short film with more from one of the nature connectors can be viewed at: www.wildinthecity.org.uk/nature-connectors Five courses are scheduled for 2018; to learn more, email jenni@wildinthecity.org.uk
track record of working in partnership with education providers and the government to meet demand, creating more than 10,000 new primary places and nearly 2,000 new secondary places over the past six academic years. • Families with children who are four years old, or approaching their fourth birthday, should now be starting to apply for primary school places in 2018. The closing date for applications is 15 January 2018. Details of the application process, with step-by-step instruction, can be found on the council’s website, and in the Admissions to primary schools 2018/19 prospectus. For further information, visit www.croydon.gov.uk/ admissions.
For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
11
Seized and crushed Croydon Council has impounded its 31st and 32nd vehicles suspected of being used by fly-tippers. Two Ford Transit vans are the latest victims of the council’s campaign to tackle those who dump rubbish. They were spotted and impounded by environmental enforcement officers, and will be crushed if their owners cannot be traced. The first of the two vehicles was seized on 7 November by council officers in Pawsons Road, Thornton Heath. It had no number plates, and the load area was filled with building waste and oil drums. The second vehicle was found full of waste on 14 November in Peterwood Way in Croydon. The 7 November seizure came
as part of a multi-agency operation involving around 30 council officers alongside counterparts from the police, HM Revenue and Customs, and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). This operation also led to six people being issued with £80 fixedpenalty notices for fly-tipping. Since launching its Don’t Mess with Croydon – Take Pride campaign in 2014 to combine enforcement with encouraging more than 300 local volunteers to lead community clear-ups, the council has seized and crushed dozens of vehicles used by fly-tippers. To report a fly-tip in Croydon, call 020 8726 6200 or email flytip@ croydon.gov.uk
The street vacuums
Clamping down on
New Addington and East Croydon are among the latest areas of the borough to get street vacuums under the council’s ongoing £1.3m investment in cleaning equipment. In August, the council unveiled eight specialist vacuum cleaners, which collect litter more efficiently, in the town centre, Broad Green and Norbury. In November the council introduced six new street vacuums in Fieldway, central New Addington, around East Croydon station and on Beulah Hill; 25 more will be rolled out across the borough by March. Launched to support the council’s Don’t Mess with Croydon – Take Pride campaign, which combines enforcement against fly-tipping with encouraging community clear-ups, the £1.3m council investment in equipment includes:
The number of fly-tips recorded across the borough in the past six months has dropped by 21% overall, compared to the same period in 2016, as the council’s Don’t Mess with Croydon campaign continues. From April to October this year, there were 11,876 reported incidents of fly-tipping, down from 15,211 during the same period in 2016. Month by month, the drop between 2016 and 2017 ranged from 16% in June to a 35% drop between April 2016 and the same month this year. Since launching its Don’t Mess with Croydon – Take Pride campaign in 2014, the council has: • cleared 87% of fly-tips within 48 hours (target 80%); • successfully prosecuted 171 offenders; and • tackled shopfront fly-tipping by restricting when business rubbish can be put out for collection.
are coming!
the fly-tippers
• steam cleaning pavements in West Croydon; • four new road-sweeping machines to support manual street cleaning • two new refuse collection vehicles to collect orange waste bags; and • 80 solar-powered BigBelly bins, which use an automatic compactor to squash the rubbish.
Fly-tipping figures, April-October 2016 compared to April-October 2017 2,500
2,000
-35.1%
-21.6%
April
May
-16.1%
-24.6%
-23.4%
-20.7%
-8.6%
1,500
1,000
June
July
August
September October
To report a fly-tip confidentially, use the My Croydon app, notify the council through My Account, call 020 8604 7000 or email flytip@croydon.gov.uk
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WINTER 2017
FESTIVE SEASON OPENING HOURS Access Croydon, Bernard Weatherill House
BIN COLLECTION TIMETABLE Refuse and recycling collection date changes Over the Christmas holiday period, the council’s refuse and recycling services will be operating to a slightly revised collection schedule. The table below shows the alternative days on which bins and boxes should be left out. There are no collections on Monday 25 and Tuesday 26 December, nor Monday 1 January. Calendars with further details of the date changes and which containers need to be put out for collection can be found at www.croydon.gov.uk/ environment/rrandw/collection/resident/bin-collection
Monday 25 December
Closed
Tuesday 26 December
Closed
Wednesday 27 December
9am to 4pm
Thursday 28 December
9am to 4pm
NORMAL COLLECTION DATE
REVISED COLLECTION DATE
Friday 29 December
9am to 4pm
Monday 25 December 2017
Wednesday 27 December 2017
Monday 1 January
Closed
Tuesday 26 December 2017
Thursday 28 December 2017
Tuesday 2 January
9am to 4pm
Wednesday 27 December 2017
Friday 29 December 2017
Thursday 28 December 2017
Saturday 30 December 2017
Croydon Council call centre Monday 25 December
Closed
Friday 29 December 2017
Sunday 31 December 2017
Tuesday 26 December
Closed
Monday 1 January 2018
Tuesday 2 January 2018
Wednesday 27 December
9am to 4pm
Tuesday 2 January 2018
Wednesday 3 January 2018
Thursday 28 December
9am to 4pm
Wednesday 3 January 2018
Thursday 4 January 2018
Friday 29 December
9am to 4pm
Thursday 4 January 2018
Friday 5 January 2018
Monday 1 January
Closed
Tuesday 2 January
9am to 4pm
Croydon libraries Saturday 23 December
Closed
Monday 25 December
Closed
Tuesday 26 December
Closed
Wednesday 27 December
Open as normal
Thursday 28 December
Open as normal
Friday 29 December
Open as normal
Saturday 30 December
Open as normal
Monday 1 January
Closed
Tuesday 2 January
Open as normal
Croydon leisure centres – see individual sites www.thorntonheathleisurecentre.com www.purleyleisurecentre.com www.southnorwoodleisurecentre.com www.newaddingtonleisurecentre.com www.waddonleisurecentre.com
Missed collections can be reported via your MyAccount at www.croydon.gov.uk/myaccount or by calling 020 8726 6200.
CHRISTMAS PARKING IN CROYDON A little parking present from the council as rules get seasonal relaxation. In common with the practice of recent years, the council is easing the regulations in its car parks and on-street bays on specific days over the Christmas and New Year period. Helping to spread a little festive cheer, the relaxation of parking regulations will help people visiting shops, enjoying the displays of festive illuminations or simply dropping in on friends and relatives to share the seasonal good spirits. The whole borough will be free of parking enforcement in council-run car parks and on-street bays on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Yellow-line, footway and bus lane restrictions, however, will remain in place on these days, and motorists should park in a reasonable manner, showing consideration for other road users and pedestrians. Normal parking enforcement will be in place from 27 to 30 December, and resume on Tuesday 2 January.
For events and meetings across Croydon visit www.croydon.gov.uk/events
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g n i l c y c Tree thing s a m t s i r h C it ’s a
If you’re opting for a real tree this Christmas, think about what will happen to it after the holiday. With almost one million Christmas trees thrown away each year in London alone – and fewer than 10% of those being recycled – it is important that we remember to recycle our tree. If you opt for a real Christmas tree this year, do not forget to take it to one of the council’s designated recycling collection points between Tuesday 2 and Sunday 14 January. At other times, Christmas trees can be taken to any of the council’s reuse and recycling centres – but please remember to remove all tinsel and decorations before taking it to be recycled.
CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING COLLECTIONS There will be only two collections from the listed points – on Sunday 7 and Sunday 14 January – so please do not leave Christmas trees at the collection points after Sunday 14 January. From 8 -19 January, householders will be able to leave Christmas trees out for collection with their kerbside waste and recycling bins.
CHRISTMAS TREE RECYCLING COLLECTION POINTS Ashburton
Ashburton Park, access from Tenterden Road
Coulsdon East
Grange Park, Canon’s Hill
Fairfield
Oaks Road/Coombe Road car park
Heathfield
Addington Park car park, Gravel Hill
Kenley
Kenley Residents’ Association, Oaks Road green
New Addington
Central Parade car park
New Addington
Fisher’s Farm reuse and recycling centre, North Downs Road
Norbury
Granville Gardens car park
Purley
Upper Woodcote Village RA, Woodcote Village green
Purley
Purley Oaks reuse and recycling centre, Brighton Road
Selsdon
Selsdon Recreation Ground, access from Woodlands Gardens
Shirley
Monks Orchard green
Shirley
Shirley Park RA, Green Court Gardens green
Waddon
Factory Lane reuse and recycling centre, Factory Lane
s t n e v E s a m t s i r Ch 14
WINTER 2017
With Christmas fast approaching there are plenty of ways to celebrate the arrival of the festive season here in Croydon. JACK AND THE BEANSTALK – PANTOMIME Waddon Leisure Centre Running until 31 December Join in the magical land of ‘Croydinia’ where song, dance, and silliness are the order of the day as you follow Jack, his mum Dame Trott, and their treasured cow Daisy, as they fall about laughing, fall over and get truly covered in foam and gunge. (£66.50 family ticket)
BELSHAZZAR’S FEAST YOUNGSTERS’ MATINEE Stanley Hallls | 2-3pm, 13 December Teachers! Bring along your musical kids (with their instruments and singing voices please!) to listen to and to join in with two of Britain's top musicians. (£3) BELSHAZZAR’S FEAST The Oval Tavern 7.30pm, 13 December On tour with a Christmas-themed show that mixes traditional folk music, seasonal material, added to the usual touch of classical and jazz (with a bit of pop thrown in for good measure) (£12.50) MUSIC TIME FOR 0-2 YEAR OLDS The Oval Tavern 11am – 1pm Live music and fun for children aged 0-2yrs old. Entry by suggested £5 donation Music starts at 11am and then sensory and fun play from about 12noon. THE MAN WHO INVENTED CHRISTMAS (FILM) David Lean Cinema 2.30pm, 14 December Hoping for a career revival, Charles Dickens aims for new success, with a series of events leading him to pen the classic A Christmas Carol. (£6.50 - £8)
From the traditional fun of pantomime, through to classic festive films or feasts of live music.
We’ve compiled a short list of some of the events on offer between now and the end of the year – and remember, if you sign up
A CHRISTMAS CRACKER AT ST JOHN’S St John the Evangelist, 2 Sylvan Road 7pm, 15 December The orchestra will be kicking off the countdown to Christmas with a concert your whole family will enjoy (various prices – family ticket £36) HIDEAWAY CHRISTMAS SHOW Hideaway, 2 Empire Mews 7pm, 15, 16 December Janette Mason will be joined by Lily Dior and Kevin Leo as she leads the Dirty Martinis, swinging and grooving their way through some classic Christmas crackers packed with soul, jazz and feel good festive twists and treats. (£15) STORYTIME The Oval Tavern | 1pm, 16 December This week’s storytime theme is Rudolph’s nose. (Entry by donation) FUNK ME: ROOFTOP REUNION Project B, 1 Bell Hill 16 December After an amazing summer series of our now legendary rooftop parties at Lost Format Society, the team take over Project B in Croydon town centre for their last party of 2017.
AFROBOX Boxpark | 8pm, 21 December AfroBOX is a celebration of the continued growth of the sound of young Africa. Hosted by Croydon resident, artist/producer SILVASTONE. (Free)
THE POLAR EXPRESS (FILM) Stanley Halls | 17 December Get up, get on, and get ready for the ride of your life! It’s Christmas Eve, and you’re about to roller-coaster up and down mountains, slip-slide over ice fields, teeter across mile-high bridges and be served hot chocolate by singing waiters more astonishing than any you can imagine. (£3) IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: CHRISTMAS COMMUNITY TAKEOVER (FILM) Holy Innocents, 192a Selhurst Road 1.30pm 17 December The local community are celebrating Christmas with the second event in their brand new Community Takeover strand. Bring your loved ones for a special matinee screening of this Christmas masterpiece. (£3.50 - £9)
THE OLD AVENGERS The Oval Tavern | 9pm, 16 December This is billed as the band’s last gig at their favourite local – with some special guests (free). BOOGIE MONSTERS FESTIVE FAMILY ACOUSTIC JAM Boxpark | 10.30am, 17 December Join Boogie Monsters, the UK's awardwinning LIVE rock and pop band for children, as they bring their fun and interactive daytime gigs to Croydon. (Family ticket £28)
to receive the weekly Your Croydon e-mail newsletter you’ll not only get regular local news updates from the council, but we’ll also send you a link to what’s on in Croydon’s venues every day of the year. Go to www.croydon.gov.uk/subscribe.
CROYDON UKE JAM The Green Dragon 7.30 pm, 17 December All abilities welcome, from experts to beginners. Free ukulele jam in the upstairs bar. It is very informal, just play or sing what you can. (Free) CHRISTMAS CINEMA: DIE HARD Stanley Halls | 8pm, 19 December The perennial Christmas action blockbuster that introduced the world to officer John McClane (£20 for two – includes a bottle of wine)
THE CIYO BROWN QUARTET Hideaway, 2 Empire Mews 8.30pm, 21 December Jazz guitar man Ciyo Brown’s new quartet has already been selling out London venues, featuring Ciyo's vocal excursions with a tinge of guitar. (£10) JAZZ JAMAICA CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Hideaway, 2 Empire Mews 7pm, 22 December Bassist and bandleader Gary Crosby mixes up jazz and ska classics, bringing in some reggae vibes and performing with a swing and zeal that has made them festival favourites around the world. IDMC GOSPEL SOUL CHOIR CHRISTMAS SHOW Hideaway, 2 Empire Mews 9pm, 23 December A night of high energy, soul and gospel, and that's just the intro. Enjoy a festive night of Christmas carols, all given the IDMC Gospel Soul treatment, as well as traditional and contemporary gospel songs and inspirational melodies. (£20)
THE VINCE DUNN ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS SPECIAL Hideaway, 2 Empire Mews 2pm, 24 December World renowned drummer VINCE DUNN brings his fabulous orchestra for this special Christmas Sunday lunch show, playing an eclectic mix of jazz, Latin, foot tapping funk, classic big band swing and a smattering of classy festive songs (£15)
For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
The JustBe journey to a healthier you One year after launch, a council website has pointed thousands of residents along the path to a happier and healthier way of life. Cooking healthier meals, losing weight, cutting back on the booze, quitting smoking and doing more exercise – just some of the life-altering changes that local people have made with the help of JustBe. Thousands of residents are getting top tips to improve their life by logging onto Croydon’s unique online health platform at www.JustBeCroydon.org Open to all residents, it has helped
them make big, and small, changes to their lifestyle. The website is packed full of online tools, apps, podcasts, videos, and diet and exercise plans with expert advice. Blogs on the site show how residents have benefitted from the support, and offer inspiration for those just starting on their journey to a healthier lifestyle. Go to www.JustBeCroydon.org and start your journey.
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GEORGE George, 42, was finally ready to stop smoking for good, but he knew that he needed extra support to achieve his goal. He was signposted to the JustBe Croydon website by one of the council’s live-well advisers at the Healthy Living Hub (www.croydon.gov.uk/healthy-living-hub) in Croydon Clocktower. Previous attempts to quit had failed, and he now faced barriers to making the necessary changes, particularly from having friends and family around him who smoked. George made his life and home surroundings a smoke-free zone and reintroduced exercise into his daily life. At his three-month review, George had the carbon monoxide reading of a non-smoker, and registered an increase in his physical activity levels and his mental well-being score.
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WINTER 2017
Spend some time in the great outdoors Check out Croydon’s great outdoors and free health and well-being services to get you feeling your best this new year.
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Playgrounds for adults
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Free ping pong
It may come as a surprise to some, but Croydon is an exceptionally green borough, with 127 parks and open spaces spreading from the north to the south. These important spaces provide great opportunities for dog walking and letting the kids run wild and burn off some energy. More than that, though, they can help us all live healthier lifestyles with a huge variety of other activities available, some of which might come as a surprise. So get out and about, and explore your borough.
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Be food smart
Tone up for free at your local outdoor gym, there are new ones opening soon. The first will be in Goldcrest Way in New Addington, followed by four next year . “With the help of the live-well adviser, I’m making plans to move more daily, and thinking about how I’m going to exercise more frequently.” – Miss M • Goldcrest Way – New Addington • King George’s Field – Selhurst • Upper Norwood Recreation Ground • Purley Way Playing Fields – Waddon • Grangewood Park – South Norwood
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Local guided walks
For those who are partial to a game of ping pong, we’ve plotted four on our map. There are, however, an impressive 22 ping pong tables, which are totally free to use, dotted around the borough. www.pingcroydon.co.uk • Box Park Croydon • The Peppermint Centre, Waddon • Grangewood Park, Thornton Heath • Rickman Hill Recreation Ground, Coulsdon
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Community Food Learning Centre
We all know that eating plenty of fruits and vegetables is good for us, so why not grow your own? Allotment gardening provides a wide range of benefits to communities and the environment. “I used to think eating healthier foods was a bit boring, but after exploring different foods with the live-well adviser I no longer reach for the sweets!” Mrs G. www.croydon.gov.uk/allotments • Mickleham Way, New Addington. • Midday Sun, St Andrews Road, Coulsdon. • Orchard Avenue, Shirley. • Purley Oaks Road, Sanderstead. • Hartley Down, Stoats Nest Road, Coulsdon. • Pampisford Road, South Croydon.
Improve your fitness and have fun by signing up to one of the borough’s free nature walks. Running all year round, they are guaranteed to open your eyes to what our green spaces have to offer. www.croydon.gov.uk/walkingforhealth • Happy Valley • Hamsey Green • South Norwood • Norbury • Selsdon Wood
• Lloyd Park • Purley Way west • Gravel Hill • Wandle Park
The Good Food Matters Community Food Learning Centre in New Addington, is a 1.5-acre bio-diverse green space with a large eco-built, fully equipped teaching kitchen. The aim of the centre is to work with the community to help connect us all to the food we eat and how it is produced. It also aims to empower people in the community by teaching the invaluable skills of growing and cooking. www.goodfoodmatters.org.uk/ •M ickleham Way, New Addington, Croydon, CR0 0PN
For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
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Croydon’s parks have lots of friends groups, nearly 40. Together they have been doing some amazing things around the borough. An example of their dedication includes fundraising for new children’s play areas in Grange Park, Old Coulsdon; and they have also raised more than £5,000 for Millers Pond, Shirley, to create a new path to hidden benches. “I joined the Friends of Park Hill Park four years ago. I’ve found it to be extremely rewarding. I’ve enjoyed meeting new people, while also knowing that I’m contributing to and supporting nature conservation – both within my local park and across the borough.” – Erica Wright, Friends of Park Hill Park www.croydon.gov.uk/parks-volunteering • Grange Park, Old Coulsdon • South Norwood Country Park and Lake • Miller’s Pond, Shirley
BMX
Fun for the kids
With plenty of children’s play spaces tucked into pretty much every neighbourhood, get the kids out in the fresh air and let them enjoy the range of equipment at the borough’s 41 playgrounds. For three of our best playgrounds head to: • Lloyd Park • Grange Park, Old Coulsdon • South Norwood Country Park and Lake
Many of Croydon’s parks are homes to fabulous cafés where you can treat yourself to a wide range of snacks and drinks. • Park Life Café – Lloyd Park • Poppy Café – Coulsdon Memorial Ground • Wandle Park Café – Wandle Park • Coach House Café – Coombe Wood
Riders of all ages and spectators are welcome at Norbury Park BMX track which opened in the summer. “I’ve found it really positive. Different groups come together; 'old' and experienced BMXers helping the younger and inexperienced. Spectators, including dog-walkers, stop to watch, bond and chat – making this track the centrepiece of the park.” – Mrs N • Norbury Park, Green Lane
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WINTER 2017
B E A L E RT – N OT A L A R M E D London has suffered several terrorist attacks this year, and the most recent attack – on a tube train in Parsons Green – reminds us all of the continued need to be vigilant at all times. We ask that everybody remains alert, but not alarmed. I’d further ask you keep your eyes and ears open, helping keep yourself, your family and your community safe by looking out for suspicious activity and reporting it to the police, in confidence, by calling 0800 789 321. This summer and autumn have been busy periods in Croydon, with one of the main achievements being able to implement the Mayor of London’s commitment to have at least two dedicated officers on every ward in Croydon. These officers will not be taken away from their wards for other police duties, and they are responsible for problem solving, and being there for you. My officers have been focused on addressing the increasing violence among young people, both as victims
and suspects. This worrying increase is not just a Croydon problem; it is a trend across all boroughs in London. In Croydon we have sought to adopt a multi-agency approach to tackling the offences which are occurring now, but also implementing a longer term plan to prevent these issues in the future. We have been conducting targeted searches of areas looking for hidden weapons and knives that could be used to commit offences. The results have been good but there remains a lot of work to do. In the run-up to the Christmas and New Year period, we will launch our Be Safe campaign, designed to crack down on the seasonal trend in crime and antisocial behaviour. There will be an increased focus around burglary, robbery, domestic abuse, theft including shoplifting, and motor vehicle crime. With the darker nights now with us, I would like to remind households to ensure all windows are closed and locked when not at home, and all ground-floor windows are closed at
night – opportunist thieves will take advantage of insecure properties. I would also remind car owners to ensure satellite navigation systems and valuables are not left visible in unattended vehicles. Please don't let thieves have an easy time in ruining this festive period for you. I lead an extremely professional and committed workforce, and my neighbourhood teams carry out regular drop-in surgeries at key locations in all wards. We also have contact points, details of which are on our website. Please come and meet your officers and let us know what it is you want your police to concentrate on. We are happy to attend community events that you are planning; just contact your local team. The website is www.met.police. uk/contact-us and you can also follow us on Twitter – @MPSCroydon
Jeff Boothe
Chief Supt Jeff Boothe Croydon borough commander
Helping to stop domestic abuse The Family Justice Centre has launched a new campaign with 70 Croydon NHS pharmacies showing those afected where to seek help against domestic abuse and sexual violence. It is estimated that one in four women and one in six men will experience some form of domestic abuse in their lifetime, equating to 62,000 adults within Croydon. This alarming figure is the reason the borough’s Family Justice Centre (FJC) will continue to expand its training offer and marketing materials. By joining forces with local pharmacists, the FJC team aims to extend its domestic abuse and sexual violence (DASV) support services across the borough. The posters have been translated into the five most-spoken languages in Croydon, with the simple question: are you safe? The initiative aims to identify those who may be affected by DASV, especially those who have difficulty visiting the FJC,
or those who might be reluctant to do so. Pharmacy staff will be trained on how to help if they are concerned about someone, how to look out for signs of DASV and what support services to refer them to. The Christmas and New Year period can be a particularly difficult time for victims of domestic abuse, especially if the perpetrator is spending an increased amount of time at home, monitoring their actions. If you are worried about domestic abuse please call the Family Justice Centre (open with the exception of the bank holidays) on 020 8688 0100, or the free 24-hour national domestic abuse helpline on 0808 2000 247. In an emergency call the police on 999.
For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
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LEST WE FORGET A ceremony in the Town Hall will remember those who perished during the Nazi Holocaust and more recent atrocities. All are invited to attend a ceremony that, every year, remembers and pays tribute to the many thousands of victims of the Holocaust and other 20th-century genocides. Holocaust Memorial Day will be marked in traditional manner with a public candle-lighting ceremony in the foyer of Croydon Town Hall at noon on Friday 26 January. That will be followed by presentations in the council chamber, including a keynote address by Eve Kugler, who was a child survivor of the Holocaust. The day is an international event marking the liberation of the Nazi concentration camp Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1945, and is a time to: • remember those murdered in the Holocaust and under Nazi persecution, and during subsequent genocides, including Cambodia, Bosnia, Rwanda and Darfur; and • hope for a safer, inclusive society where the differences between us are respected as reality today and in the future.
This year’s theme is The Power of Words, exploring how language has been used in the past, and how it is used in the present day. See http://hmd.org.uk/resources/theme-papers/ hmd-2018-power-words To support schools with classroom-based projects, a n activity pack is available at http://hmd.org.uk/content/ order-or-download-activity-pack In addition, visit www.cferinfo.org.uk to find resources for schools and the wider community. For further information about Holocaust Memorial Day 2018 or Croydon’s candle-lighting ceremony, email yvonne. gaye@croydon.gov.uk or call 020 8604 7029.
Council expands
20mph limit Hundreds of streets in north-west Croydon now have 20mph speed limits as part of council plans to improve road safety. Hundreds of streets in north-west Croydon now have 20mph speed limits as part of council plans to improve road safety across the borough. Anyone who has driven through the north-west corner of the borough over the past few weeks will have noticed that the traffic is slower. The reason is that, since 6 November, most of the roads in the area have seen the speed limit cut to 20pmph. The exceptions are Transport for London red routes, private roads and a number of A roads that have been granted exemption. According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents, introducing 20mph limits cuts the risk of injury or death in an accident. New signs will be installed in affected roads, and speeding drivers caught by police can expect fines, points on their licence or prosecution.
On several roads where 20mph has been implemented, the council has installed number plate recognition equipment to record drivers’ speeds and pass relevant data to the Metropolitan Police. If speeding remains an issue, options could include traffic-calming measures, as well as police enforcement. In 2015, the council divided the borough into five areas and began the process of introducing the new speed limit. The north-west joins the north and north-east areas in seeing the restriction implemented, leaving the two remaining areas – the south-east and south-west of the borough – to go live by next May. For more information, visit https:// www.croydon.gov.uk/transportand streets/roadsafety/20mph-areas-forresidential-roads/croydon-20mphproposal
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WINTER 2017
YOUTH SPEAKING
UP FOR YOUTH London’s largest youth population is preparing to vote for its first young mayor – aiming to better represent youngsters’ hopes and aspirations. Tens of thousands of local young people will get a taste of local democracy, and a new ambassador, when they elect their first young mayor next spring. With more children and young citizens than anywhere else in the capital – including approximately 40,000 residents aged between 11 and 18 – Croydon’s young mayor election is set to be among the most exciting London has seen.
Voting will be open to young people aged from 11 to 18, while candidates will be required to be aged from 16 to 18 and live, work or study in Croydon. All those standing for election will prepare a written manifesto and run a local campaign with the support of friends and volunteers. The winning candidate will serve a fixed term and work with other young people to manage a budget that will
benefit local voluntary sector groups. They will be elected on a manifesto and be supported in their role by the Mayor of Croydon, senior councillors
Repowering Croydon
Croydon Council, in partnership with Repowering London, is looking to create opportunities for residents’ to lead and deliver renewable energy projects. The initiative would reduce the borough’s carbon footprint, and create community funds for supporting local initiatives. Repowering London is a not-for-profit organisation that specialises in empowering communities to own and generate their own renewable energy using solar panels to convert the energy of the sun into clean renewable electricity. All profits from the scheme go straight to the community, who get to choose how the money is spent. Croydon young people will also benefit through internship opportunities. Repowering London has delivered a number of successful renewable energy projects across London including the Banister House solar installation in Hackney, which is set to generate £28,000 toward its community fund over the 20-year life of the project. What do you think of this idea for Croydon? Would you or your community group be interested in getting involved? Complete the survey at www.croydon.gov.uk/repoweringcroydon
and council officers. Any young people standing will also get an opportunity to be part of the local youth forums and other youth voice groups.
Sunny side up: Hackney project set to generate cash for the community.
For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
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The diaries of an
E C I T N E R P AP Youngsters from across the borough have recently started work as apprentices in a number of council departments. Your Croydon asked them how they had enjoyed their first week, and what the opportunity meant to them. Aged between 16 and 31, all but two of the 24 apprentices are Croydon residents. Through this scheme, thecouncil is aiming to grow its own talent and give local young people a step up the career ladder. Many of the council’s key service areas – including public health, youth engagement and finance – are set to benefit from these apprentices’ fresh perspectives on life in Croydon and public service.
SHANE, 17 Finance Apprentice “Being put into a professional work environment at the age of 17 was definitely something I couldn’t have anticipated just a couple months ago when I was doing my AS levels.”
Nazifa, 17 Rent Accounting Officer “The induction enabled me to connect to other apprentices on a personal level and it was helpful for me to know that there are other people in the exact same position as me.”
Michelle, 22 Business Administration Apprentice “Once the induction was over, I was a little sad as all the apprentices would be separated into the different departments within the council and we all got on so well over the past two days. “On the first day of work there was a lot of reading material to go through to learn about my job role, as well as other information that would help me to figure out my way around the council building. “The days that followed were great. I liked the people I was working with and found it really easy to fit into my team. “I’ve also been given a lot of support and encouragement, which makes me feel that I can achieve anything I want to inside and outside of the council.”
Rachel, 23 Community Arts Apprentice “On the Wednesday, I felt officially part of the office team and was able to come in and get straight to work with no hesitation and without asking what needed to be done."
IMAD, 22 Economic Development Apprentice “I was excited to start because I felt a great relief that I had a job and something to get up for in the morning. “Working in the local council also provides me with an exciting opportunity to learn valuable experience in an environment I would love to forge a long career in.”
Ainat, 18 Community Arts Apprentice “I genuinely feel like I’m going to learn so much on this apprenticeship scheme and it will contribute significantly to my personal development, as well as me being able to contribute as one of the voices for young people.”
The council’s apprenticeship scheme is open to anyone aged over 16 and living or studying in Croydon. For more information, visit www.croydon.gov.uk/jobsatcroydon/ apprenticeship or email tomi.moronkola@croydon.gov.uk
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WINTER 2017
Council meeting dates Public questions for council meetings (starting at 6.30pm) should be emailed to council.questions@croydon.gov.uk by noon on the indicated date.
Useful contacts For police, fire brigade, ambulance, call: 999 or 112, Text phone 1800
Meetings: Monday 4 Dec Deadlines: Friday 1 Dec Monday 29 Jan Friday 26 Jan
Croydon Council general enquiries 020 8726 6000
Questions for council meetings (50 words maximum) can be put in one of the following ways: • email a question, by the deadline, and attend the meeting to ask your question; or, • if unable to attend, email a question, by the deadline; if time allows, the Mayor will put the question to the cabinet member. • Alternatively, attend the council meeting and request to ask a question in person.
Croydon NHS Walk-in Centre 020 3040 0800
Unless otherwise stated, cabinet meetings start at 6.30pm, in the Council Chamber of the Town Hall. Meetings: 11 December 22 January For information on meetings, minutes and agendas, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/meetings For information on cabinet and shadow cabinet members, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/cabinet Unless otherwise stated, scrutiny meetings start at 6.30pm, in the Council Chamber of the Town Hall. Meetings: 12 Dec Scrutiny and overview committee 19 Dec Health and social care scrutiny sub-committee 16 Jan Health and social care scrutiny sub-committee 23 Jan Streets, environment and homes scrutiny sub-committee 30 Jan Scrutiny and overview committee 6 Feb
Children and young people scrutiny sub-committee
Non-emergency urgent care - 111 Croydon University Hospital 020 8401 3000
Get in touch To get in touch with the Your Croydon editorial team, email: yourcroydon@croydon.gov.uk If anybody you know isn't receiving the online Your Croydon weekly, tell them that they can ensure delivery by subscribing at www.croydon.gov.uk/subscribe
Central Library and Museum of Croydon Katharine Street, Croydon CR9 1ET Open: Monday to Saturday (see website for daily hours) Library – www.croydon.gov.uk/ Museum – www. central-library museumofcroydon.com Telephone: 020 8726 6900 Telephone: 020 8253 1022 Email: libraries@croydon.gov.uk Email: museum@croydon.gov.uk
For information on scrutiny, go to www.croydon.gov.uk/scrutiny or email scrutiny@croydon.gov.uk Meetings of the Safer Neighbourhood Board are held in the venues indicated. For further information, look www.croydononline.org/ safer-neighbourhood-board Forthcoming public meeting: Meeting: Wednesday 14 March at 6.30pm – venue to be confirmed Details of all Croydon Council meetings can be found at www.croydon.gov.uk/meetings.
Guided Walks
For full details, visit: www.croydon.gov.uk/ leisure/parksandopenspaces/walks
DECEMBER
hours – of the Downlands Circular Walk. Discover the beautiful wooded countryside and farmland Sunday 17 December around Happy Valley, Chaldon and the North Winter tree ID and folklore in Happy Valley Downs Way. Dogs on leads welcome. Meet at Forget the Christmas shopping, wrap up warm and 11.00am at the Farthing Downs car park, Ditches discover the myths and folklore behind our native Lane, Coulsdon. trees and learn how to identify them from their bark, buds and twigs. Meet at the Farthing Downs FEBRUARY car park at 2pm. Saturday 3 February
JANUARY
Sunday 21 January Downlands Circular Walk winter ramble
Join the Happy Valley countryside warden to follow the route long – seven miles, three to four
Littleheath Woods winter tree walk
Even in winter there is plenty to see. Come and identify trees in winter, by their shape, twigs and buds with The Friends of Littleheath Woods. Meet 10am at the junction of Queenhill and Littleheath roads.
Sunday 11 February Family winter tree walk in King’s Wood
Join the community partnership officer for a woodland saunter, become a woodland detective and learn how to identify trees without their leaves, using other clues such as bark shape or seeds. Meet at 2pm by the woodland entrance, off Orchard Road, off Limpsfield Road. For further information about guided walks, Friends of Park groups, natural play and forest school, or how to get involved in caring for Croydon’s green environment, call the community partnership officer on 020 8726 6000 or email biodiversity@croydon.gov.uk
For up-to-the-minute council news visit www.croydon.gov.uk/news
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Your A to Z of council services The council provides a comprehensive range of services designed to offer help and advice to residents. Below is only a small selection of those services – for the full list, visit www.croydon.gov.uk and follow the “A-Z” link in the purple field near the top of the home page. Adult education Information on the courses available to older students. Blocked drains Information on how to deal with drain problems.
Disabled parking Providing parking bays throughout Croydon for vehicles used by the holders of blue badges.
Recycling What to recycle, how to recycle and where to recycle.
Instrumental tuition Service for children and young people. Leisure centres Links and information on all the borough’s leisure centres.
Bulky waste collection What it is, how to book it and how much it will cost. CCTV Helping to ensure the safety of people in Croydon.
CCTV
Careline Providing a home safety and personal security system, helping people to live independently within their own homes. Connected Croydon The programme of public works to improve borough streets, squares and open spaces.
CONNECTED CROYDO
Home safety advice See if you are eligible for a free home safety check.
Disabled parking
Dropped kerb and crossovers To lower the kerb in front of your property and provide vehicle access to a hard-standing parking area, council consent is required. Emergency planning Keeping Croydon running in the event of serious incidents. Energy advice Advice that could help save substantial amounts of money on residents’ energy bills. Fly-tipping How to report it, your responsibilities as a landowner, and how the council prosecutes fly-tippers. Gambling The different types of licences – and how to apply for them.
Lottery registration Running a lottery to raise funds for a charity or an organisation such as a sports club, church or school, requires registration. Mediation service – housing A mediation service for housing and housing association tenants, and others My Croydon Download the council’s app for easy reporting of a number of issues. Neighbourhood wardens Offering help and support to local communities. Occupational therapy Enabling people with disabilities to carry out essential activities, with the aim of maintaining or improving independence. Planning applications Advice on all aspects of the planning process.
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Recycling
Safer Croydon Working to make the borough safer for all who live, work and visit here. Trading standards Dealing with doorstep crime and rogue traders, and offering advice to residents and businesses.
Trading Standards
Voluntary organisations Details on available funding. Welfare benefit advice Know what you’re entitled to and claim it. Youth projects All you need to know about Croydon’s youth provision. Zoo licence You need to apply for a licence to run a zoo – should you really want to!
Planning
www.cro ydon. gov.uk/atoz
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Your Croydon November 2017.indd 1
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We have five centres across London with courses in animal management, environmental conservation, floristry, garden design, tree surgery, horticulture and more. Come along to our ADVICE SESSION at Crystal Palace Park, Jubilee Stand, Ledrington Road, SE19 2BS on Monday, 29 January from 5pm until 7.30pm to find out more.