Borough Diary - Summer 2017

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Top 100 for school leavers

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BOROUGHDIARY SUMMER 2017 WWW.BASILDON.GOV.UK

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NEWS FROM BASILDON BOROUGH COUNCIL & YOUR COMMUNITY

COUNCIL CRACKS DOWN

ON FLYTIPPING Basildon Council is cracking down on flytipping of large household items and domestic waste.

Since October 2016, when the council began using new legal powers, it has issued 24 £200 fixed penalty notices to householders dumping large items like mattresses, wardrobes or household appliances.

Cllr Alan Ball, Chairman of the Regeneration and Environment Committee, said: “More than eight out of ten flytipping reports the council gets are about mattresses and other large household items.

“Everyone is responsible for their household waste and I want to send a strong message that you need to get rid of it responsibly or face a fine.

“The council offers a special collection for £10 for up to five items, which is much better than a £200 fine.”

Fines are issued for any items left on public land without permission.

The council is also warning about using cut price unlicensed contractors to get rid of your waste.

“If a contractor offers to remove your waste for you and the price is too good to be true, it probably is,” said Cllr Ball.

“The items will most likely be flytipped somewhere.”

If dumped waste can be tracked back to a householder, they could face a large fine or even jail and a criminal record.

The council advises people to use its own special collection service or a legitimate waste carrier – registration can be checked quickly and easily online with the Environment Agency.

To request a council special collection online go to www.basildon.gov.uk/ specialcollections or call 01268 533333.

To check if a waste contractor is licensed go to environment.data.gov.uk/ public-register

Basildon councillors switch to committee system Leader in the committee system.

Cllr Callaghan said: “We have taken a very important step to change the way that decisions are made because we believe it will make the council more democratic and more effective. It is now down to us to prove it.

“All of us need to commit ourselves to listening to what our constituents and our communities are saying and to making sound decisions based on good evidence and careful consideration. We will need to work together and listen to each other too.”

For more information on the new committees turn to page 3.

Clare Kentish Photography

Photography Steve O’Connell

Basildon councillors are now operating under a new committee system, following a vote at an extraordinary general meeting at the end of May. The vote sealed a switch away from the Leader and Cabinet model the council had previously been run under. Decisions will now be taken in a number of committees that have members from all political groups, in proportion to their representation on the council.

Councillors voted that no one would have the title Leader of the Council. The Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee, Cllr Gavin Callaghan, has assumed the responsibilities of the

George and Morgan Tilson supporting our Armed Forces Day at Basildon’s Armed Forces Day Parade

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News

Mayor’s Column

NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

Council in top class for UK employers for school leavers

Basildon Council apprentices with Claire Owen, Principal Learning & Occupational Development Consultant

An honour to be your Mayor What an honour to be elected as Mayor of the borough of Basildon for a second year! I am grateful for the support from fellow councillors.

The last year has been very busy with about 160 engagements both in the borough and further afield.

Basildon, Billericay and Wickford has so many community clubs and organisations covering so many varying activities, and I have had the pleasure of meeting up with many of them during the last twelve months. Together, they help in making the borough a great community!

There are far too many to mention individually, so on behalf of all of the Members of Basildon Borough Council, I would thank everyone who gives up so much of their time to keep all those clubs and organisations running throughout – not just this year – but year after year. Well done!

Part of my role as Mayor is to fundraise for charity. Thanks to the generous nature of people, schools and businesses I was able to raise £17,400 during my first term as Mayor.

This has helped me provide £11,600 for Wagtail Children’s Ward at Basildon Hospital for some important respiratory and monitoring equipment, and £5,800 for the Lukes’ Counselling and Support for Children & Young People service at St Luke’s Hospice.

My charities for my second year as Mayor will be ‘Be Child Cancer Aware,’ a charity founded by a local couple Sarah and John Drummond, which now has become a small national charity, and is now in partnership with ‘Beads of Courage’.

‘Be Child Cancer Aware’ aims to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of childhood cancer and has developed an awareness card which is delivered to families and schools.

They also wanted to do something to help children and teenagers through their treatment. In July 2011 they brought the ‘Beads of Courage’ programme to Basildon Hospital. You can find out more about the charity at www.bechildcanceraware.org I will also continue to help the children’s wards at Basildon Hospital by supporting their ‘Polly Parrot Appeal’ which covers the Wagtail and Puffin Wards, children’s oncology and the neonatal unit.

If, as you read this, you would like to help, either with a fundraising event, or simply to make a donation – then please contact me at the Basildon Centre, either by email: Committee&MemberServices@basildon.gov.uk or call 01268 206736.

Cllr David Harrison, Mayor of Basildon

SUMMER 2017

Young people have ranked Basildon Council as one of the best employers in the UK for school leavers.

The council was ranked 31st in the ‘all about school leavers’ top 100, finishing ahead of dozens of household names including Barclays, Mercedes Benz and Royal Mail.

The list is compiled from employee satisfaction surveys completed by young people working in the school leaver training world,

covering every aspect of their working lives, from job satisfaction and career progression, to company culture and work/life balance.

Luke Rapley, 17, who joined the Basildon Council apprenticeship scheme after leaving school, said: “This apprenticeship has offered me so much support and trust and I believe has given me the best possible start to my career.

“Coming from school I didn’t know what to expect, I have been given so many fantastic opportunities while

working here and have picked up skills that I would use my entire life in any role and I am always being pushed to achieve my best.”

Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Policy and Resources Committee Chairman, added: “Having only left school myself 10 years ago I remember very well what it’s like starting out.

So I am delighted with this recognition that the council takes very seriously its responsibility as a major local employer to offer opportunities to our young people.

“I’m determined to make sure we continue to do that and that we find new ways to help build the skills and confidence of young people and help them make their way in the world of work.”

To view the full list of top 100 school leaver employers go to www.allaboutschoolleavers.co.uk/ employer-rankings To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities at Basildon Council please visit www.basildon. gov.uk/jobs

Basildon Community Safety Hub launches Basildon has launched a Community Safety Hub where agencies will work together to tackle crime, anti-social behaviour and reduce re-offending in the borough.

The Community Safety Hub, based in the Basildon Centre, aims to strengthen local partnership arrangements by co-locating partnership agencies who are responsible for the delivery of the Community Safety Partnership Plan.

The hub will work to: • address local issues, providing the opportunity to share real time information for the first time • improve the case management of those individuals who cause harm • deliver more responsive joint action for local communities

• improve the service offered to victims.

Cllr Kerry Smith, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Housing and Communities Committee, said: “Community Safety Hubs have been developing across Essex. The Basildon hub is seen as fundamental to responding to local challenges and identifying emerging trends that require multi-agency responses.”

Partners who will be working from the Community Safety Hub are Basildon Council, Essex Police, Essex Community Rehabilitation Company, Family Solutions, Essex Social Care, Victim Support, Youth Offending Service and Phoenix Futures.

The soon to be launched Domestic Violence One Stop Shop, which is being funded by the DCLG (Department for Communities and Local Government, will also work from the hub.

Bala Mahendran, Basildon Council’s Chief Executive and Cllr Kerry Smith, Chairman of the Housing and Communities Committee with members of the newly formed Basildon Community Safety Partnership.

SUMMER 2017

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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

News

Introducing council’s new committees Decisions at Basildon Council are now made by a number of committees. Members from different parties sit on these committees, with the number of committee seats allocated in proportion to how many members the party has on the council as a whole.

These are the four main service committees.

Policy and Resources Committee Chairman: Cllr Gavin Callaghan The Policy and Resources Committee has overall responsibility for the financial and other resources of the council and for developing and advising full Council on the budget. It also has specific responsibilities for services including customer services, revenues and benefits, legal, finance, human resources, IT and communications.

Priorities for this committee include setting a value for money strategy, relocation of the Felmores bail hostel and establishing a Breakthrough Basildon Commission to investigate barriers to social mobility in the borough.

The next meetings of the committee will be held on Thursday 27 July and Thursday 7 September.

Regeneration and Environment Priorities for this committee could include to review the Local Plan (including overseeing Committee Chairman: Cllr Alan Ball The Regeneration and Environment Committee is responsible for regeneration and development and services including refuse and recycling, street cleansing, parks, leisure, environmental health, planning enforcement and building control.

Priorities for this committee could include to review and bring forward the regeneration projects for Wickford and Pitsea, increase resources to tackle unauthorised developments, review the Basildon town centre masterplan and broaden the focus on town centres to include improvements to local shopping parades.

The next meetings of the committee will be held on Wednesday 12 July and Wednesday 13 September.

Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee Chairman: Cllr Linda Allport-Hodge This committee is responsible for planning policy (including the Local Plan), neighbourhood planning, economic development and skills and corporate property.

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the external review of the Green Belt and infrastructure capacity) and take forward outstanding actions, create a Basildon Skills Academy and update economic development policy.

The next meetings of the committee will be held on Wednesday 19 July and Thursday 14 September.

Cllr Gavin Callaghan

Cllr Alan Ball

Housing and Community Committee Chairman: Cllr Kerry Smith The Housing and Community Committee is responsible for housing management and property services, Sempra Homes, community safety, tackling antisocial behaviour, community development and public health.

Priorities for this committee could include to develop a key worker scheme providing homes for the health workers, teachers and other public servants the borough needs, improve standards in privately rented accommodation and introduce a Pride of Basildon awards programme.

The next meeting of the committee will be held on Wednesday 6 September.

Cllr Linda Allport-Hodge Cllr Kerry Smith All committee meetings take place at 7pm in the Basildon Centre and are held in public. Anyone is welcome to attend.

In addition to these new service committees, there continues to be committees for planning, audit and risk, and licensing plus a small number of sub-committees.

Cllr David Harrison was re-elected Mayor of the Borough with Cllr David Burton-Sampson, Deputy Mayor

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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

News

SUMMER 2017

Grass has never been greener for Nick who retires from council after almost 50 years The grass has never been greener for a former green keeper who will retire after almost 50 years at Basildon Council.

Nick Sears, 65, of Billericay, has worked for the authority since August 1968 - the year the Beatles released The White Album and 11 months before Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the moon.

Nick began his career as an apprentice in the council’s parks department at the parks nursery in Pound Lane, Laindon. He retired on 20 June from his current role as grounds maintenance manager.

Despite working outside in all weathers for the majority of his career Nick has never had a day off sick and even hobbled into work with a broken foot on one occasion.

In April he was recognised for his long service and commitment with a

special Chief Executive’s award.

As well as an exemplary sickness record Nick counts the major improvement works at Basildon Golf Course as one of his key achievements.

He said: “I don’t recall ever having a day off sick and can remember coming into work with a broken foot but I think becoming head green keeper for 25 years and overseeing the major improvement works at Basildon Golf Course ranks as my proudest achievement.”

After moving on from his green keeping duties Nick took up a role managing contracts for the council across a range of areas including cemeteries, allotments, sponsorship and events.

Nick added: “I’m quite disciplined and pay a lot of attention to detail so I have really enjoyed working on client contracts in the latter part of

my career.

“I’m really grateful to Basildon Council for giving me the opportunity to develop my skills and experience. But, most of all, I am grateful for all the lifelong friends I have made whilst working here. I will miss the challenges but I have lots of plans for my retirement.”

His manager, Hugh Reynolds, paid tribute to him for his years of loyal service. He said: “I have known Nick for nearly 30 years and in that time I have seen all the hard work and dedicated service that he has put into the parks section and especially at the golf course.

“He is a first class horticulturist and green keeper whose knowledge and experience in these fields will be sadly missed at Basildon Council and will be difficult to replace.

Rescued horse gets new home and gives birth to foal An abandoned horse seized by council officers has found a new home and given birth to a healthy foal.

Buddy, who has been named by council officers, was born in the early hours of Wednesday 10 May. His journey began after Basildon Council enforced the Control of Horses Act, which gives the authority the power to remove and detain horses found to be unlawfully occupying public land, generally known as fly grazing.

Buddy’s mother, Roberta, was seized on Friday 10 February on land at Courtauld Road, Basildon. On Thursday 16 February the council became Roberta’s official owner and handed her in to the care of a horse sanctuary where she has now been microchipped and issued with a horse passport, which all horses must have.

When Roberta, who is estimated to be around nine or 10-years-old, was found she was pregnant and in poor health suffering from worms and lice. She was malnourished with her ribs, pelvis and spine clearly visible.

Thanks to the swift intervention of council officers utilising new powers to seize abandoned horses and the excellent work of the vet and the sanctuary she has made a fantastic recovery and given birth to a healthy foal which is great news.

Buddy really beat the odds.

The council would like to remind owners they have a duty to ensure their animals are properly treated and do not cause potential health and safety issues for the public by using the council’s parks and open spaces.

Owners are also reminded to ensure their animals have appropriate welfare surroundings.

Bala Mahendran, Chief Executive of Basildon Council presenting Nick Sears with a long service and commitment award

More than 350 respond to Live Well Pitsea consultation A public consultation aimed at finding out the health and wellbeing priorities of people living in Pitsea South East received more than 350 responses.

The Live Well Pitsea project was launched in February with residents being encouraged to take part in a consultation which will help Basildon Council and local partners get an understanding of the barriers to physical activity and wellbeing in the area.

Cllr Alan Ball, chairman of the environment and regeneration committee, said: “I would like to thank residents in Pitsea South East for taking part in the survey. The findings will help the council to make an informed decision about local services in partnership with stakeholders and local people.

“By working together with partners we can begin to understand people’s

interest in physical activity and what services or groups might be wanted to improve their health.”

Headline findings from the consultation were that 71 per cent of respondents do not do the recommended amount of exercise per week, which is 30 minutes five times a week.

The consultation also found that the same percentage of respondents do not eat five fruit and vegetables per day and 40 per cent do less than 30 minutes of activity per week.

Following the public consultation a series of more in-depth interviews were carried out with individuals from the Pitsea South East community as well as focus groups with local school children, young people and older people.

Flying the Rainbow Flag to celebrate Essex Pride Basildon Council flew the Rainbow Flag, over the Basildon Centre, from Friday 23 June to Sunday 25 June 2017, in support of Essex Pride and to show our support for our lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex (LGBTQI+) community.

The Rainbow Flag was raised by the Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison who was accompanied by the Deputy Mayor, Cllr David Burton-Sampson.

Essex Pride is an event for the whole community. Pride inspires everyone to embrace equality, and demonstrates that

people from all walks of life throughout Essex, can join in together and celebrate.

This year’s event took place on Saturday 24 June in Chelmsford.

Cllr David Burton-Sampson, the Deputy Mayor of Basildon, wrote a letterto the council’s neighbouring authorities to encourage them to join Basildon Council and raise the Rainbow Flag ahead of Essex Pride. He said: “This is the first time that this flag, which is such a powerful symbol of equality and diversity has flown above the Basildon Centre and that makes me proud.

“The rationale behind my letter to our neighbouring authorities is that flying the flag in different locations across Essex will send out a very powerful message in support of the LGBTQI+ community and also demonstrates how Essex can come together to promote LGBTQI+ equality.

“I received a really positive response and am pleased that Basildon Council wasn’t alone in flying a flag that symbolises our Cllr David Burton-Sampson, Deputy Mayor of commitment to celebrate equality and Basildon; Sgt Gina Denham from Essex Police and Cllr David Harrison, Mayor of Basildon are joined by diversity”. fellow Cllrs and LGBTQI+ community group

SUMMER 2017

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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

News

Basildon celebrates Armed Forces Day Armed Forces Day was celebrated in the Basildon Borough on Saturday 24 June with hundreds of residents watching the parade through the town centre.

This annual event is arranged by Basildon Council in partnership with the Basildon Borough Civil Military Partnership Board (CMPB). Our Veterans were joined by Navy Cadets, Air Cadets and Army Cadets in the parade that started

by Toys R Us and finished in East Square where the Armed Forces Day flag was raised.

The Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison and dignitaries took the salute of the parading Veterans and Cadets before the Mayor, Royal Naval Captain Paul Hill, and Deputy Mayor, Cllr David Burton-Sampson, inspected the assembled parade.

Following the parade, The Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison, said: “Thank you to everyone who came to show their support for our Armed Forces which provides a much valued morale boost for our troops and their families.

“And thank you to all our Veterans and Cadets who took part in the parade. I am proud that here in Basildon - we have a tradition of

marking Armed Forces Day and it is an honour for me, to be part of it. But this is about more than just tradition - by coming to the parade - our community demonstrated how much they appreciate our Armed Forces past and present.”

John Simpson from the Basildon Borough Civil Military Partnership, added: “On Armed Forces Day this year, we saw a cross section of Veterans representing many past campaigns including the Normandy Landings in 1944; the Korean Campaign in the 1950’s as well as many other campaigns since those days. They are proud to be on parade representing their Regiment; Ship or Squadron. They proudly display the cap badges of the three Armed Services.

“Within the Basildon Borough there are many ex-military personnel living in the community, these are the Veterans who stand alongside our comrades in the Armed Forces. Some of them carry the scars of their time in the Forces, they do not complain, they do not expect much recognition save that they have served their Sovereign and Nation”.

You can see lots of photographs taken at the Armed Forces Day Parade on our Facebook page at http://www.facebook. com/basildonboroughcouncil

A high five for Mayor of Basildon, Cllr David Harrison from Millie Luxton

Keaton, Ethan and Lisa Mackerness

Photography Steve O’Connell Armed Forces Day Parade in Basildon

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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

Regeneration Sempra Homes granted £1.7m for new homes Sempra Homes, Basildon Council’s wholly owned company, have been awarded Investment Partner status by the Homes and Communities Agency. As a result of this Sempra Homes have been granted £1.7 million in funding towards the development of shared ownership homes across the borough.

Scott Logan, Sempra Homes Chairman said: “It is fantastic news for Sempra to receive this status and funding.

Sempra’s shared ownership homes will provide residents that aspire to own their own home with an opportunity

to get a foot on the housing ladder by purchasing a share in a home and eventually purchasing further shares to ultimately have 100% ownership.”

Sempra Homes is starting its new homes delivery programme and initial development sites at Long Lynderswood, Basildon and Roman Way, Billericay will provide shared ownership homes.

For more information about Sempra Homes, including details of all current and upcoming developments visit: www.semprahomes.co.uk

More jobs, more homes from Swan’s new factory Swan Housing Association recently opened their new factory in Basildon, where they will build over 500 precision engineered, modular homes for the regeneration of the Craylands Estate in Basildon.

Up to 40 new jobs for the region will be created in their new factory. The regeneration of Craylands, known as Beechwood, is being delivered in partnership with

Basildon Borough Council and the Homes and Communities Agency.

Swan are busy fitting out the factory including the production floor, staff areas and offices. They have been recruiting new factory employees, many of whom are local, including Product Engineers and Gas/Plumbing Installation Technicians.

To find out more information about the factory and any current vacancies visit www.nubuild.co.uk

Artist impression of Swan’s new factory

#Timeforchange at Laindon!

Earlier this year, Swan Housing Association’s plans to deliver the long-awaited retail-led regeneration of the Laindon Shopping Centre were given the green light. Basildon Council’s Planning Committee voted unanimously to approve Swan’s planning application. You can see a film showing Swan’s plans at www.laindonfutures.co.uk

Since obtaining planning, the Swan team have continued to work-up detailed designs for the scheme, including the design of the retail units, underground parking and residential homes. Swan hope to see enabling works start on-site later this year, with the main construction works expected to begin in early 2018.

SUMMER 2017

Swan Housing Association and Basildon Council recognised at awards ceremony Swan Housing Association has been recognised for their contribution to the continued economic growth of Basildon, being Highly Commended in the Promoting Economic Growth category at the Planning Awards in London.

Swan’s entry showcased their close working partnership with Basildon Borough Council which has enabled them to make a significant contribution to the economic growth and social wellbeing of Basildon through a number of redevelopment, housing and community engagement projects.

John Synnuck, Chief Executive of Swan, said: “Swan prides itself on its ability to not only deliver exemplary homes and communities, but to make a direct and significant impact on the communities we are working in. Our support for Basildon is a great example of this. Through our redevelopment activity and dedicated housing and community development team, we have brought new homes, new

community facilities, helped residents get new skills to improve their position, and with our new factory, are bringing jobs and manufacturing expertise to the area.

We are delighted to be recognised for this contribution and are grateful to Basildon Borough Council for working with us over the last 20 years, to make a real difference to the Borough.”

Bala Mahendran, Chief Executive of Basildon Borough Council, said: “Basildon Council has a long term commitment to facilitating economic growth in the borough and we have built a successful and longstanding relationship with Swan that is benefitting our residents and businesses.

“Being highly commended for promoting economic growth is recognition of what can be achieved when a council and a forward thinking housing partner work together to deliver ambitious and innovative housing and development projects where the needs of the community are at the heart.”

SUMMER 2017

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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

Have your say

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Reader Survey

NEWS FROM BASILDON BOROUGH COUNCIL & YOUR COMMUNITY

Tell us what you think about Borough Diary. We want to make sure residents get the information about the council and the community they want and your views are important to us. All information that you provide will remain confidental. Anonymised data will be used to inform the development of council services.

Please fill in our survey online at www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/BoroughDiarySurvey Or you can complete the survey below and hand it in at the Basildon Centre. Please give us your views by Sunday 6 August 2017.

1. We print the Borough Diary four times a year and deliver it door to door. Would you prefer to get Borough Diary: a. Through your door b. From a public building (leisure centre, library, Basildon Centre, etc) c. Emailed direct to you (Please provide email address here: ………………………...............................................................................) d. I do not want to receive Borough Diary (NB this question is about general news and information, we will continue to send information specific to you – for example information about your council tax – direct to you) 2. Please tell us what you like most in Borough Diary by ranking these in order (1 being like most, 5 like the least): a. News about the council, such as the services it provides and the decisions it takes b. News about the community c. Stories about plans and projects to improve the towns and places of the borough d. Local events and activities e. Longer, more in depth stories about local people, places and services 3. Is there any information not currently included which you feel would make the Borough Diary more useful or interesting?

4. The Borough Diary is usually a 16-page newspaper. Would you be most likely to read the Borough Diary if it: a. Remained in a large newspaper format (with mostly shorter news and information stories) b. Changed to a smaller magazine format (with more longer, in-depth articles) with any increase in cost offset by advertising c. I don’t know d. I would read either e. I wouldn’t read either POSTCODE

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NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

Business

SUMMER 2017

Local business celebrates 100 years of success with royal visit Local business Gerald McDonald & Company Ltd is celebrating 100 years of business this year and the fruit juice and herb/ spice blender was visited by His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester KG, GCVO to celebrate.

Other dignitaries such as Her Majesty’s Vice Lord-Lieutenant Jonathan Douglas-Hughes OBE DL, and his wife Lindsay, Basildon Mayor David Harrison and Basildon Council Chief Executive Bala Mahendran also attended the special event with over 70 current and former Gerald McDonald staff members.

The company has been based in Basildon for 17 years of its long life, after building a purpose built processing and storage facility in Cranes Farm Road. Until 2000 they had been based in London but the need to grow and bring together all parts of the business meant they needed larger premises.

The move out of London heralded growth and

expansion, bringing all parts of the company under one roof and enabling a greater control over the products supplied. The business now employs in excess of 40 people and delivers juices, concentrates, herbs, spices and essential oils to customers in the UK and across the world, including Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and North, Central and South America.

In 2016, the company opened a ‘Gerald McDonald Asia’ office in Japan to further boost exports to Asia and to help source more exotic products for the UK market.

Chief Executive Gerald McDonald, whose grandfather founded the company said: “We are very proud to have thrived during our 100 years trading – and we see a strong future for many years to come. There are a host of reasons for our success but since moving to our purpose built building in Basildon, we have received excellent business support from Basildon Council, and have been incredibly grateful for the skills and talent from the local people who work here.”

Stephen Smith operations manager, Gerald McDonald, Maxim McDonald, with HRH Duke of Gloucester

South East Business Boost

Funding to get you exporting

Are you interested in a financial contribution to help boost your business?

The final round of European Regional Development funding (ERDF) has now been secured to support businesses in Essex, who are seeking to develop capacity and increase growth.

• Capital Grants are now available between £1,000 and £10,000 • Funding is for small to medium sized businesses (SME’s) or start-ups • The grant can fund up to 30% of the total cost of eligible goods or services • The grant can contribute to the purchase of a wide range of capital items related to increasing sales, improving productivity and boosting profitability

Would you like to dip your toe in the export waters but are worried that the costs may not be totally affordable?

Backed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), and delivered by the Department for International Trade (DiT), Get Exporting 2 is a tailored programme which can provide match funding (50/50) up to £3000 to help you explore your chosen market and find the partners you need to succeed.

Alternatively, if online is your route to market, the programme can help you to globalise your website and get your products onto e-commerce platforms in other countries across the world.

To be eligible for Get Exporting 2 you must be a small or medium enterprise (SME) and have a strong desire to grow. Places on the programme are limited but if you are

• From new equipment and machinery to new technology and processes, if it helps your business to grow then you could potentially re-claim 30% of the total cost up to a maximum grant of £10,000.

For further detail and eligible project spend, please contact the Economic Development Team or visit www.basildon.gov.uk/business

accepted, entry is free!

What can you expect from signing up to the Get Exporting 2 programme?

• International Trade Advisor support • Digital online advice on how to market yourself internationally • One-to-one meetings to discuss individual needs and formulate your international strategy • Workshops on key sectors and markets • Meet the Buyer events providing opportunities to develop international sales quickly • Market research advice For further detail and eligible project spend, please contact the Economic Development Team or visit www.basildon.gov. uk/business.

BasWorx trainees put skills into action at Afflets Court

The second group of BasWorx trainees visited Basildon’s Dulux Decorating Centre and then put their skills to use on a sheltered housing scheme.

The trainees, who were aged between 19 and 54, were on a six week painting and decorating programme with Morgan Sindall Property Services.

The group were all local unemployed residents referred by Job Centre Plus.

They attended the centre in May for a ‘fact-finding’ session alongside Morgan Sindall operations manager, Glenn Monksfield and community gateway manager Amy Ross.

The team discovered that from only 16 palette colours, over a quarter of a million

paint colours can be mixed.

This knowledge was put to good use when decorating some of the office space at Afflets Court sheltered housing scheme.

This gave them practical experience in an occupied property, which is in full use by staff and residents.

John Ryan, team supervisor, said: “We have a good team here who are working well together while gaining skills in the workplace. Some of the trainees had never considered painting and decorating as a career but, being given the chance to retrain has changed their whole perspective on their career aspirations.”

Trainee Chris Gloster, said: “After being

made redundant and being unemployed for a long period, I decided to give the BasWorx work to learn programme a go.

It’s been a great experience working with the others and we’ve grown into a good team. Hopefully this opportunity will lead to full time employment in the trade.”

After completion of the six week training programme it is hoped that the team will be offered full time upskilling employment with the opportunity to complete an NVQ Level 2 in Painting and Decorating. At the same time, they will continue working with BasWorx to brighten up and improve community properties such as sheltered housing development in Basildon.

Basildon Council launched BasWorx with Morgan Sindall Property Services earlier this year.

It’s a ground-breaking training programme to give trainees a foot in the door of the construction industry.

The programme combines education with hands-on work experience, bridging the gap between education and employment by directly providing people with the skills that employers in the property and construction industry are looking for.

If you are interested in finding out more about the programme, or looking for a placement, please email Amy Ross at info@Basworx.org

SUMMER 2017

NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

BOROUGHDIARY

Community Safety

CSP Strategy Refresh and Annual Report: To see what the community safety partnership have achieved over the past year and read the reviewed ‘Reducing crime and anti-social behaviour in the Basildon Borough 2015 to 18’ visit www.basildon.gov.uk/csp

LOVE YOUR BOROUGH

For the second consecutive year, community safety partners will have a presence at the council’s Love Your Borough Event taking place on Saturday 16 September from 10am to 4pm in Basildon Town Centre.

The event will include a community safety element to align with Basildon council’s promise to ‘endeavour to keep communities safe and healthy’ with presence confirmed from Essex Police, Basildon and Billericay Street Pastors, Basildon Neighbourhood Watch, Victim Support, Essex Youth Service and Basildon and Thurrock University Hospital.

The aim of the event is to instil pride within the community. It will highlight the borough as a good place to live, work and visit, celebrate the borough’s achievements and opportunities, and provide residents with information on local services as well as a fun day out.

Garage and shed security advice Whilst most houses have adequate security, the shed or garage can often be neglected. “Nothing much in there” are comments often heard, “just a garden spade and fork”, but these are perfect tools for a burglar to use to get into your house.

It certainly adds insult to injury when the tool used to break into your house is your own, so it is worth giving it some attention.

Garages and sheds by the nature of their construction and position especially when away from the house are always going to be vulnerable.

Quite often the supplied locks provide just the minimum security and are easily overcome so always consider supplementing the existing locks with further locking systems both for the doors and items within such as:

Garage •

•

•

Add locking bolts to both sides of the up and over door Install a door defender in the ground in front of the door Don’t forget to consider security if you have side door.

Sheds • Add coach-bolts and plate the padlock hasp sections to the frame and door

• Use a good quality ‘close shackle’ padlock • Or use a key operated mortice lock.

There will be an increased Partnership presence in Gloucester Park for a week in July as a result of a number of reports from residents relating to nuisance motorbikes being driven through the residential areas and youths misusing the skate park.

As a direct response to these communi-

Risky behaviour sessions:

Young people spend a lot of time on social media, the internet and socialising. Most of the time it is normal adolescent activity but Contents sometimes it hides a risk to a • Consider using ’ground anchor’ or child. Would you be able to tell ’shed shackle’ to chain larger items the difference? such as ladders, mowers and pedal Organisation for this year’s Risky cycles to (again good quality padlock Behaviour Sessions is underway and chain) to help parents and carers recog• Keep chains tight so that are not in nise signs of risky behaviours in contact with a surface they can be children. The events will provide struck against parents with important knowledge • Protect windows with a wire mesh and that will enable them to safeguard fit a curtain, or white wash the windows their young people from risks asso to prevent prying eyes ciated with online safety and gangs.

• Visibly security mark your property Agencies recognise that to enforce with your post code and house number the messages and strengthen the as this reduces the value to the thief communication between children • Register serial numbers free of charge at and parents, it is essential that par www.immobilise.com ents are helped to understand the Products that are fit for purpose can be found by looking for the “Secured by Design” or “Sold Secure” logos, or on their websites www.securedbydesign.com/ or A London based charity Gangsline www.soldsecure.com/ has been commissioned by the For further crime prevention advice see Essex Police and Crime Commiswww.essex.police.uk/advice or sioner to deliver gang awareness www.thecrimepreventionwebsite.com intervention in six priority areas across the county for the next two years including Basildon.

To date Gangsline have delivered Gang Awareness Workshops’ at Woodlands ty concerns the CSP is organising a street Secondary School and three Pupil week to take place from 24 – 28 July Referral Units in Basildon. towards the beginning of the summer The hard-hitting workshops have holidays. been delivered to up to 25 pupils per During the week partners will aim to session who have been identified by engage with young people and where their school. The workshops aim to: necessary use enforcement powers to • To provide confidential prevent misuse of motorbikes in the area. opportunities for young people to

Gloucester Park Street Week

BASILDON COMMUNITY

SAFETY PARTNERSHIP

9

potential risks young people may face, the signs to look out for and the support that is available from local services.

Three separate events are being organised to take place in August and September this year, once confirmed information will be published on the CSP website www.basildon. gov.uk/csp and the CSP Twitter Page @BasildonCSP

speak openly to ex-gang members • A greater understanding of the myths and lies surrounding gang culture • Understand the nature of relationships which are characterised by violence • Be better informed about the danger of gangs, exploitation and drugs • Be better equipped to leave gang life • Understand the impact of their crimes on victims • Be encouraged to change their lives and inspired to follow their lost aspirations • Engage with services that offer education, training and employment

FOLLOW BASILDON COMMUNITY

SAFETY PARTNERSHIP ON TWITTER @BasildonCSP

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BOROUGHDIARY

NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

SUMMER 2017

LOVE YOUR BOROUGH

Talking Newspaper celebrates First ever Basildon Soup event 40 years of sharing local news Congratulations to the Wickford and District Talking Newspaper for the Blind who celebrated their 40th anniversary recently with a tea party attended by 50 volunteers and invited guests.

The registered charity, who record an audio version of each edition of the Borough Diary, is staffed completely by volunteers and in 2010 received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (which is an MBE for volunteer groups).

They record and send out local news recordings every week, totally free, with articles taken from local newspapers to people who are visually impaired. The news recorded covers Basildon, Wickford,

Billericay and surrounding areas.

Technical manager Mike Ballinger, said: “We are very proud to have been supplying the service for 40 years. We are also proud of all of our volunteers who give their time to make this possible. We know how much the blind people of Essex appreciate the hard work, because they tell us so. It’s crucial people can find out what’s been going on in their communities.”

If you - or someone you know - would like to receive their recordings, please visit: www.wickfordtalkingnewspaper.org.uk or email wickfordtalkingnewspaper@gmail. com

Bev, Mike and Sally from Wickford & District Talking Newspaper for the blind cutting the cake

Community spirit came to the fore as people joined together over bowls of soup to choose a worthy project to receive a funding boost.

The first ever Basildon Soup event took place at the George Hurd Centre, where community groups were invited to submit proposals before the event, with four ideas being shortlisted to be pitched to the audience at the meeting.

The winning project, as voted for by the audience, received all the entry money raised, as well as an additional £100 donated by Basildon Council’s Community Involvement team.

The event, inspired by the success of the Southend Soup scheme, aims to bring people together to eat while supporting community start-up projects by networking to see how individuals and groups can help one another.

A and N Counselling CIC was the first group to speak, with Kevin Palmer speaking passionately about a scheme to offer free counselling to those who could not afford it.

Mark Pytka, the organiser of Clean Up Basildon, spoke about his volunteer group’s mission to tidy up the borough’s parks and educate young people to reduce littering.

Helen Webb, from Basildon Parents4Parents, explained how her group of community volunteers were offering free one-on-one parental support to anyone

in the borough in need of help, while Liane Swainland spoke of her ambition to reinvigorate Laindon’s war memorial flower bed.

Whilst the votes were being counted, Danny Lovey from The Rotary Club of Basildon Concord, talked about Mayfest 2017 and how to get involved.

Carla Andrews, founder of Motivated Minds, spoke about her latest projects around health and well-being and reducing social isolation for young and older people.

The winner was announced as Basildon Parents4Parents, which will use the £220 grant to extend their service to include a drop in.

The next Basildon Soup will take place later this year. If you would like to get involved, either by having a stall or helping out on the day, or would like to get in contact and support any of the projects mentioned, please email communityinvolvement@basildon.gov. uk or call 01268 208224.

Attendees at Basildon Soup event

Basildon Dad starts community litter pick group Basildon Council is supporting a local Dad who started a facebook group to encourage people to join him in community litter picks in parks in the borough.

Mark Pytka, supported by his partner Keeley, launched the Clean Up Basildon group in March and so far the group has 153 members.

Mark said: “Sadly there is a minority of people who litter our parks and open spaces. I like living here and taking my dog for a walk or my children to play in the park, unfortunately, sometimes the litter I see just ruins it.

“I wanted to do something about it. This isn’t about criticising the council - they can’t be everywhere. I thought that by starting the ‘Clean Up Basildon’ Facebook group, it was my chance to give something back to the area and do my bit.”

The council has been helping Mark with litter picking equipment and its Community Involvement team has given him advice and guidance on funding and how to set up a committee.

Mark added: “As a group, we aim to do one litter pick a month. Not everyone can come to all of them, it is

just help out when you can. Not only are we making a difference to where we live but it’s about meeting new people and having a chat over the much needed tea or coffee at break time”.

As well as support from the council, Mark was welcomed into Eversley Primary School recently to talk to the children about littering.

Finally Mark said: “I would like to thank everyone who has helped and joined our litter picks. Doing this will help everyone. The more people who sign up, the more we can achieve together.”

To find out more visit www.facebook.com/cleanupbasildon or email cleanupbasildon@outlook.com

Mark Pytka with the litter collected at Gloucester Park litter pick

SUMMER 2017

BOROUGHDIARY

NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

11

LOVE YOUR BOROUGH

Enjoy the Great Outdoors this summer Basildon residents are being encouraged to try some interesting ways to be more active as part of a new project.

The Great Outdoors (GO) project will see outside space such as local parks and recreation areas being used for a range of activities including: GO Tai Chi, GO Yoga, GO Nature Nurture for new mums and babies and GO Explorers.

Also available will be GO Classics, which is fun and games with a mix of beginners running and walking and encouraging mums, dads and grandparents to relive their childhood memories.

Dave Mathew, who is a GO Tai Chi

Champion, said the ancient art has changed his life: “Tai Chi has really worked for me, I have several health problems and had very little movement which also made me feel depressed but after working at Tai Chi I have so much more movement and its helped me to feel better about my situation. I would say to anyone, especially if you have problems with mobility, even if you are in a wheelchair like me, give it a go, you will be amazed.”

Cllr Alan Ball, Chairman of the Environment and Regeneration Committee said: “We want to know what people would like to do in their local area so have started to trial some activities in the Pitsea area.

“The aim of this project is to connect communities to activities taking place within local outdoor spaces. As part of this, local people are also being encouraged to let us know if they would like to volunteer to help organise the activities or to become an activity leader. From what we have seen so far, people want to use their local outdoor space to try out new activities but didn’t know where to start. We want to help people to change that.”

To keep up to date with activities visit Healthy Living Solutions on Facebook at:www.facebook.com/HealthyLiving SolutionsCIC To book a place call Michelle at Healthy

Eat safe this summer New research indicates that people in Basildon could be putting themselves and their families at risk of food poisoning through lack of knowledge of the 4Cs of food hygiene – chilling, cooking, cleaning and cross-contamination.

The Food Standards Agency’s Food and You Survey, found from respondents in the East of England that: • 49% did not know that a fridge should be kept between 0°C and 5°C. It is important that some foods are kept at these low temperatures to slow down the growth of bacteria • 57% said they don’t always change chopping boards between different types of food (the highest rate in the country) • 54% said they generally defrost meat or fish by placing it in water or leaving at room temperature, rather than in the

fridge or microwave as recommended.

In addition, people are still reporting that they do not always wash their hands before starting to prepare food, despite the FSA’s recommendation that people wash their hands thoroughly before cooking and after touching the bin, going to the toilet, handling pets or handling raw food.

Cllr Alan Ball, Chairman of Regeneration and Environment Committee at Basildon Council, said: “These figures show there is much more that people can do to keep themselves and their loved ones safe from the risks of food poisoning.

“This is important all year round, but particularly so over the summer, during hot weather when germs can multiply very quickly and when people are often using barbecues to cook meat outside.”

For tips on how to stay safe this summer visit go to www.basildon.gov.uk/safefood

Living Solutions on 07856 766221 or email Michelle.foakes@healthylivingsolutions. org.uk

GO Tai Chi in the sunshine at Wat Tyler Country Park

Lifting the lid on mental health symptoms in young people The Basildon Borough Youth Council showcased their animation Lifting the Lid at Essex Youth Hub, Southernhay, earlier this year. The Borough’s Youth Council explained to attendees how they planned and delivered their own community project, with £1,124.44 of funding from the Basildon Youth Strategy Group and O2 Think Big. Working in conjunction with the innovative Signal Media Arts Centre, the group of 11-19 year olds produced a stop animation and accompanying audio.

The short film aims to reduce the stigma of mental health in teenagers and signpost them to appropriate services. Every member involved was awarded an Arts Award and the group, recieved a certificate of excellence from Essex Youth Service.

The Youth Council were delighted to welcome Woodlands School at the event. Woodlands School have been very proactive in encouraging their pupils to join the Youth Council and are keen that their students have information to access support. The Youth Council have plans to develop

their animation and get their message out into secondary schools, to start a frank discussion around mental health.

Basildon Borough Youth Council is free to join for any young person that lives and/or attends a secondary school/ college in the borough. The group are supported by officers from Basildon Council’s Community Involvement team and Essex Youth Service and meet fortnightly on Thursdays at Essex Youth Service Hub, Southernhay from 6pm until 7.30pm.

For details of how to join the Borough’s Youth Council please contact the Community Involvement team on communityinvolvement@basildon.gov. uk or by ringing 01268 208224

Youth Council members and supporters

Local Service Directory

TO ADVERTISE HERE CALL THE COMMUNICATIONS TEAM ON:

01268 208198 cmc@basildon.gov.uk basildonboroughcouncil @basildoncouncil

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BOROUGHDIARY

NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

SUMMER 2017

LOVE YOUR BOROUGH

Nevendon Road park Appeal for young entrepreneurs improvements to be to take part in youth market officially unveiled Entrepreneurial young people are being encouraged to take part in a youth market during this year’s Love Your Borough event.

The Love Your Borough event, which is taking place in Basildon Town Centre, on Saturday 16 September, is a community event to celebrate all that is good about the borough.

Basildon Council’s Community Involvement team are running a youth market aimed at entrepreneurial young people who are already selling items they’ve made themselves online.

Anyone aged 13 to 25 can register their interest in securing a pitch at the market by contacting the team.

We are looking for bright young people who are using their talent and initiative to sell all manner of items.

The stalls and pitches are free so we would encourage young people to get in touch and book one to take advantage of this great opportunity.

Live animals, smoking and drugs related items will not be accepted.

To find our more and register your interest call 01268 208142 or email community involvement@basildon.gov.uk

A park in Wickford has undergone a £110k revamp including additional children’s play equipment and a modern skate park.

The works at Nevendon Road Park, follow a period of consultation with children and young people in the area, as well as a local community group.

The consultees were North Crescent Primary School, Drop Zone Youth Club and the Nevendon Neighbourhood Agreement committee.

The works have been funded by Basildon Council (£95,000), with an additional financial contribution from the resident-led Nevendon Neighbourhood Agreement (NNA) (£15,000).

An official opening event will be held on Saturday 22 July from 12 noon to 4pm.

The NNA in partnership with Basildon Council’s parks team have further supported the improvements to the park by funding the installation of park benches, disabled friendly picnic benches, dog waste

bins, litter bins and notice boards.

The opening event will be supported by Active Basildon, the sport and physical activity network for Basildon, Billericay and Wickford, which will be arranging sporting activities. These activities will continue on a weekly basis each Saturday throughout the school holidays.

Cllr Alan Ball, Basildon Council’s chairman of the environment and regeneration committee, said: “Local residents are invited to come along to Nevendon Park to see the changes for themselves and take part in some of the activities that will be on offer. If you have children in the family who love to scooter or skate bring them along to have a go on the skate park where we hope to have some expert riders showing off their skills.”

If you’re a sports club in Wickford and interested in being a part of this event, please contact Anthony Ayres, Active Basildon Apprentice at anthony.ayres@activeapprentice. co.uk

SUMMER 2017

BOROUGHDIARY

NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

LOVE YOUR BOROUGH

Celebrating 60 years’ helping our residents Our Community Hub partners, Citizens Advice Basildon is celebrating 60 years of providing information, advice and guidance to those who live or work in Basildon.

The Citizens Advice in Basildon first opened its doors to the public on the 24 May 1957 when Harold McMillan was Prime Minister, we would have been listening to ‘All Shook Up’ by Elvis and watching ‘Gunfight at the O.K Corral’ at the movies. Many things have changed over the last 60 years but the aims and principles that helped create the Citizens Advice service remain the same: • To provide the advice people need for the problems they face • To improve the policies and practices that affect people’s lives From its office in the Community Hub within the Basildon Centre, Citizens Advice Basildon assists over 6,000 people a year with over 15,000 problems. The team of dedicated staff and volunteers provide help with almost any problem including debt, benefits, housing, employment, legal, consumer, immigration and relationship breakdown issues.

Chief Executive Kathy Peach, said: “We are very proud to be celebrating our 60th birthday. I would like to say a massive thank

you to everyone who has volunteered or worked for Citizens Advice Basildon over the last 60 years. Without all of you we wouldn’t have been able to provide such a brilliant service thank you.”

Citizens Advice Basildon is currently recruiting more volunteers to join the team in Basildon, Billericay & Wickford.

Volunteers receive comprehensive training and all reasonable travel expenses are covered.You can apply or find out more by contacting recruitment@bascab.org.uk Further information is available 24 hours a day www.citizensadvice.org.uk

Citizens Advice Basildon volunteers

Citizens Advice Basildon Borough thanks its volunteers Citizens Advice Basildon Borough is celebrating the inspirational volunteers who dedicate their time to solving people’s problems and making a difference to their lives.

The charity marked Volunteers’ Week (1-7 June) by shining a spotlight on the remarkable contribution of its team of over 50 volunteers who give up 300 hours each week to help people find a way forward.

In the last year, Citizens Advice Basildon Borough has helped 7,557 people with 13,531 problems, from housing and debt issues to benefits and employment rights.

The charity’s volunteers have played a crucial role ensuring people in Basildon, Billericay and Wickford get the advice and support they need to get on with their lives.

Citizens Advice offers a wide range of voluntary roles - from IT support and advisers to administrators and trustees.

Margaret Boyle, started volunteering at Citizens Advice Basildon Borough after retiring two years ago. She said: “I get a real buzz out of helping people sort out problems that have been holding

them back. It’s an opportunity to further enhance my own life skills and help my community”.

Kathy Peach, Chief Executive at Citizens Advice Basildon Borough, said: “Thanks to our amazing volunteers we are able to continue making a huge difference to people’s lives. Our volunteers give up their time for free to help people who may be going through problems to get back on their feet. Volunteering also brings its own rewards and is a great way to meet new people and learn new skills.

If you can spare a few hours each week, we’d love to hear from you.”

Nationally, Citizens Advice relies on 23,000 volunteers who help provide support in 2,900 locations across England and Wales - helping 2.7 million people every year.

Thanks to the contribution volunteers play in local Citizens Advice, two out of every three clients have their problem solved and four out of five say the advice received improved their lives.

If you’re interested in finding out more about volunteering with Citizens Advice Basildon Borough contact recruitment@ bascab.org.uk

13

Essex County Council Election results Thursday 4 May 2017 Election Summary for Divisions in the Basildon Borough Divisions Elected candidates

Billericay and Burstead

Anthony Michael Hedley Conservative

Billericay and Burstead

Richard Andrew Moore

Conservative

Laindon Park and Fryerns Allan Robert Davies

Labour

Laindon Park and Fryerns Jeff Henry

Conservative

Pitsea

Stephen Hillier

Conservative

Pitsea

Patricia Reid

Labour

Westley Heights

Kerry James Daryl - Luke Smith

Independent

Wickford Crouch

Tony Ball

Conservative

Wickford Crouch

Malcolm Robert Buckley Conservative

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BOROUGHDIARY

Services

Councillor surgeries Councillor surgeries are open to members of the public who want to obtain information and advice, make a complaint or enquire about services that the council provides.

Billericay East Cllr Dadds- Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay - no appointment necessary.

Cllr Schrader - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay - no appointment necessary.

Cllr Sullivan - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay - no appointment necessary.

Billericay West Cllr Turner - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay - no appointment necessary.

Cllr Lawrence - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street, Billericay - no appointment necessary.

Cllr Hedley - Last Saturday of the month between 10.30am and 12 noon in the Library, High Street,

NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

Billericay - no appointment necessary.

Burstead Cllr Blake - Street Surgery will be held on the last Saturday of the month 10am-12 noon Cllr Baggott- Last Saturday of the month 10am-12 noon in different streets in Billericay Cllr Moore - Street Surgery will be held on the last Saturday of the month 10am-12 noon Crouch Cllr Sargent - First Saturday of the month between 9.30am and 10.30am at Noak Bridge Village Hall, Coppice Lane, and the third Saturday of the month between 9.00am and 10.00am at Steepleview Hall, Willowfield (off Osier Drive) Laindon SS15 4EQ. Cllr Allen- First Saturday of the month between 9.30am and 10.30am at Noak Bridge Village Hall, Coppice Lane, and the third Saturday of the month between 9.00am and 10.00am at Steepleview Hall, Willowfield (off Osier Drive) Laindon SS15 4EQ. Fryerns Cllr Brown - contact for details: 07791 109436 Cllr Davies - contact for details: 01268 459285 Cllr Sheppard - Every fourth Saturday of the month from 1.30pm - 3.30pm at the Fryerns

Crunch Times

The crunch service is a mobile waste disposal facility that tours the borough.

Residents can use it to dispose of bulkier items of rubbish. Locations marked with a G can also be used for the disposal of green waste. The crunch service is not suitable for paints, oils or other waste liquids.

The crunch is from 9am to 12 noon at each site, unless otherwise stated.

Further details are available at basildon.gov.uk/recycling

15 July

Vange - Redgrave Road SS16 4DB 9am - 10.30am Southview Road Opp. Dentist SS13 3RQ 10.30am - 12 noon Wickford - Keats Way opp.

No. 3 Garage area *G* SS12 0BP Billericay - David’s Walk CM11 2EZ

22 July

Wickford - Alderney Gardens rear of shops SS11 7JP Billericay - Radford Crescent Car Park *G* CM12 0BW Craylands - The Lichfields SS14 3RQ 9am - 10.30am Barstable Club - Long Riding SS14 1PD 10.30am - 12 noon

Library, Whitmore Way, Basildon.

Laindon Park Cllr Ellis – contact for details 07712 706892 Cllr Green - The first Saturday of every month from 9am until 11am at Laindon Library, 5-7 New Century Road, Laindon SS15 6AG. Cllr Barnes – contact for details 07427 356812 Langdon Hills Cllr Allport-Hodge - Every first Saturday of the month from 12 noon until 1pm at the Langdon Hills Women’s Institute Hall, Samuel Road, Langdon Hills, Basildon, SS16 6EZ. Cllr Hillier - contact for details 01268 490201 Lee Chapel North Cllr Ferguson - contact for details 07817 311373, or write c/o Basildon Borough Council Cllr Bennett - contact for details 01277 626236 Cllr Gordon - contact for details 07817 865202 Nethermayne Cllr Smith - The third Saturday of the month from midday until 1pm at the Kingswood Playgroup Centre, Clay Hill Road, Kingswood, Basildon SS16 5AD. Please call 01268 661812 for details

29 July

Billericay - Hannikins Farm CM12 0EZ Pitsea - Wilsner next to Trenham Centre SS13 1HP 9am - 10.30am Pitsea - Great Ranton SS13 1JP 10.30am - 12 noon Fryerns - Frypa Hall SS14 3PL 9am - 10.30am Fryerns - Downey Close SS14 2NF 10.30am - 12 noon

5 August

Wickford - Rettendon View SS11 8HU 9am - 11am Pippin Court SS11 8JW 11am - 12 noon Laindon - Laindon Link opposite Kingdom Hall SS15 5UR 9am - 10.30am Laindon - Leinster Road SS15 5FA 10.30am - 12 noon Fryerns - Ghyllgrove opposite the Upway SS14 2JU Chalvedon - Mill Green layby near car park SS13 3PB 9am - 10.30am Chalvedon - Plumleys SS13 1NQ 10.30am - 12 noon

12 August

Laindon West - Dunton Caravan Park CM13 3SX 9am - 10.30am Steeple View - Kings Crescent SS15 4AW 10.30am - 12 noon Lee Chapel South - The Knares service area rear of 58-92 SS16 5TF

Cllr Fellowes – contact for details 07788 298007 St Martin’s Cllr Burton-Sampson – surgeries by appointment. Email david. burton-sampson@members. basildon.gov.uk or contact 07480 339823 Cllr Buxton – surgeries by appointment. Email andrew. buxton@members.basildon.gov. uk or contact 07900 154418 Cllr Hodge – contact for details 07842 086712 Pitsea South East Cllr Arnold – contact for details 07510 385744 Cllr Carrion – contact for details 07908 439441 Cllr Ward – contact for details 07908 439441 Pitsea North West Cllr Callaghan – by appointment on Thursdays. Please email gavin. callaghan@members.basildon. gov.uk Cllr Canham- To be held on the last Saturday of every month at Chalvedon Community Social Club, 1 Chalvedon Square, Pitsea, SS13 3QX Cllr Clancy - The first Saturday of every month from 12.30pm 1.30pm, The Place, Pitsea Leisure Centre. Please contact 07563 748334 for details.

Pitsea - Chevers Pawen 9am - 10.30am Pitsea - Elm Green SS13 3HP 10.30am - 12 noon

19 August

Crays Hill Recreation Ground CM11 2YA Laindon Link - Bluehouse Community Centre SS15 5UH Pitsea - Kenneth Road - Layby SS13 2AT 9am - 10.30 am Pitsea - Beambridge SS13 3NF 10.30am - 12 noon

26 August

Ramsden Bellhouse Village Hall CM11 1RH Langdon Hills - Triangle Shops, SS16 6HF Vange - Ryedene Place SS16 4ND 10.30am - 12 noon Pitsea Mount - Brackendale Avenue SS13 3BD 9am - 10.30am

9 September

Wickford - Bruce Grove outside Shotgate Community Hall SS11 8QZ Laindon - Danacre Parking Area SS15 5PT 9am - 10.30am Laindon - King Edward Community Centre Car park SS15 6JF 10.30am -12 noon Laindon - Noak Bridge - Coppice Lane SS15 4JS

16 September

Billericay - Little Burstead Car Park *G*

SUMMER 2017

Vange Cllr Block - Every second Saturday of the month at 11am, at Vange Library, Southview Road, Basildon, SS16 4ET Cllr McGeorge - Every second Saturday of the month at 11am, at Vange Library, Southview Road, Basildon SS16 4ET. Wickford Castledon Cllr Ball - The first Saturday in every month at the Wickford Community Centre, Market Road, Wickford from 10am to 12 noon.

Cllr D Morris – contact for details 01268 457488 Wickford North Cllr Holliman - The last Saturday of the month - 10.00 am - 12.00 noon at Wickford Community Centre, Market Road, Wickford.

Cllr C Morris - contact for details 01268 457488 Cllr Mowe - contact for details 01268 463564 Wickford Park Cllr Harrison - The first Saturday in every month at the Wickford Community Centre, Market Road, Wickford from 10am to 12 noon.

Cllr Jackman - contact for details: 07762 888775

CM12 9SY Laindon - Little Oxcroft Service Road SS15 6NP 9am - 10.30am Laindon - Somercotes Next to Shops SS15 5UD 10.30am - 12 noon Luncies - Rippleside SS14 1SE 9am - 10.30am Beech Road SS14 1SU 10.30am - 12 noon

23 September

Wickford - The Wick Country Park SS12 9GP Billericay - Radford Crescent Car Park CM12 0BW Lee Chapel North - Plough and Tractor Pub SS15 5HG Chalvedon - Felmores End SS13 1PN 9am - 10.30am Chalvedon - Travers Way SS13 3LX 10.30am - 12 noon

30 September

Billericay - Carvers Wood CM11 2TJ Laindon - Little Oxcroft Service Road SS15 6NP Barstable West - Church Road j/w Clickett Hill SS14 1NH Craylands - Jordan Way SS14 3QL 9am - 10.30am Fryerns - Frypa Hall SS14 3RQ 10.30am - 12 noon

SUMMER 2017

BOROUGHDIARY

NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

COUNCIL COMMITTEE DATES JULY – SEPTEMBER

Council committees are open to the public and held in the St George’s Suite at the Basildon Centre. Dates and times are correct at time of publication but may change. To see the agendas and reports please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/meetings 11 July

7pm

Planning Committee

12 July

7pm

Regeneration and Environment Committee

13 July

7.30pm Council

19 July 7pm Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee 25 July

7pm

Planning Committee

26 July

7pm

Audit and Risk Committee

27 July

7pm

Policy and Resources Committee

1 August 7pm Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee 8 August 7pm Provisional – Planning Committee 6 September

7pm

Housing and Community Committee

7 September

7pm

Policy and Resources Committee

12 September

7pm

Planning Committee

13 September 7pm

Regeneration and Environment Committee

14 September 7pm Infrastructure, Growth and Development Committee 20 September

7pm

Licensing Committee

26 September 7pm

Planning Committee

27 September 7pm

Joint Standards Committee

15

Events

MONDAY 24 JULY TO FRIDAY 25 AUGUST

Cottage tours, pond dips and morning Xplorer trails will be available. Bioblitzes will be available every Wednesday.

MONDAY:

11am Kite Making 1.10pm Pond Dipping

12.30pm Pond Dipping 1.50pm Cottage Tour

TUESDAY:

10.30am Outdoor Trail 1.10pm Pond Dipping

12.30pm Pond Dipping 1.50pm Cottage Tour

WEDNESDAY:

10.30am Mini Bioblitz 1.10pm Pond Dipping

12.30pm Pond Dipping 1.50pm Cottage Tour

THURSDAY:

10.30am Outdoor Trail 1.10pm Pond Dipping

12.30pm Pond Dipping 1.50pm Cottage Tour

FRIDAY:

10.30am Outdoor Trail 1.10pm Pond Dipping

12.30pm Pond Dipping 1.50pm Cottage Tour

Cottage Tour - Learn about times past in our cottages. We will discuss how people lived, look and handle some historic objects and take part in a tudor craft.

Mini-Bioblitz - Become a wildlife explorer for a day and together we will find and identify as many different species of birds, bugs, plants and beasties as we can at Wat Tyler’s Mini-BioBlitz. Mini-BioBlitz is an event in which you will work in teams to find and identify as many species as possible.

For more information on the latest news on other bookable events, please visit our website www.wattylereducation.info

16

BOROUGHDIARY

NEWS FROM BASILDON COUNCIL AND YOUR COMMUNITY

Sport

Sports Development Funding for Success!

Basildon Council’s Sports Development Grant has helped various individuals and sports clubs over the past year, whether that be to contribute towards essential equipment, marketing or training needs. Basildon and Phoenix Swimming Club, Pitsea Running Club and Emily Linscott are positive examples of how the funding has enabled them to progress in their chosen sports.

Basildon & Phoenix Swimming Club Basildon & Phoenix Swimming Club (BPSC), based at Basildon Sporting Village, are currently the top swimming club in Essex. Following their successful application for a Sports Development Grant, BPSC has purchased specialist equipment to undertake individual stroke analysis using underwater video technology. Club members will benefit from the use of in-depth underwater analysis, which will aid in fine tuning technique, further developing basic skills and identifying the strengths and deficiencies of the swimmer’s stroke, start or turn.

BPSC offer a range of sponsorship packages to individuals and companies to help develop the continuing success of Essex’s top swimming club. If you would like to discuss their sponsorship opportunities further please contact Mike Stagg at sponsorship@phoenixbasildon.org or 07810 436128.

has been streamlined, keeping entry fees to a minimum and most events free to under 17’s. The club has received excellent feedback both in person and on social media and have seen membership numbers grow as never before.

Emily is driving for success

Basildon resident, Emily Linscott, aged 14, started racing karts for fun in January 2016 at Brentwood Karting Development School and recently became one of just 15 young drivers worldwide to be scouted by Arden Motorsport, based in Banbury, Oxford, and immediately signed to their Young Racing Driver Academy for 2017.

Basildon Council awarded Emily a Sports Development Grant earlier this year to assist with the purchase of her car racing suit and fireproof clothing. The funding has enabled Emily to start a limited programme of testing in the Ginetta Junior GT car and she is performing exceptionally well. Emily will be appearing alongside her race car at the Noak Bridge summer event and the ‘Love Your Borough’ event later this year.

Emily is currently seeking partners to work with her to help her to build her professional driving career. Contact her dad: mark@moosemotorsport.net for more information.

SUMMER 2017

Sports Awards 2017 – nominate now!

This year’s Active Basildon Sports Awards will be held on Wednesday 15 November 2017 at Reids in Billericay.

Help us celebrate Basildon’s sporting talent, commitment and determination by nominating those who have made a difference to or through sport over the past year.

Do you know someone who deserves to be recognised for their dedication to their sport? Can you help to spotlight outstanding commitment, whether it’s a player or an unsung hero who gives time and effort to support sporting talent?

Nominations are now open for this year’s awards so please take this opportunity to reward rising and accomplished sports people and those nurturing elite sporting talent or inspiring their local community to be more active. There are 11 categories to nominate for and the winners of these awards will be put forward for prestigious county awards – to win Essexwide recognition.

Active Basildon are also offering a number of sponsorship packages for the event. If

you would like to raise the profile of your company, this is the ideal opportunity.

Three sponsorship packages are available, so there is something to suit every business need - from an advert in the event programme to the opportunity to sponsor a specific award. Make your business part of this great celebration by contacting activebasildon@basildon.gov.uk for further details.

To submit your nomination, visit www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ActiveBasildon SportsAwards2017 The deadline for nominations is Friday 13 October 2017.

Winners and Highly Commended nominees at last year’s Sport Awards

BOROUGHDIARY NEWS FROM BASILDON BOROUGH COUNCIL & YOUR COMMUNITY

To comment on stories in this edition of the Borough Diary, or to make suggestions, please write to: The Communications Team, Borough Diary, Basildon Borough Council, The Basildon Centre, St. Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL, or email cmc@basildon.gov.uk About the Borough Diary: This newspaper is produced by the Communications Team at Basildon Council. It is published four times a year and delivered free to almost 80,000 homes in Basildon, Billericay and Wickford.

Emily Linscott

Basildon & Phoenix Swimming Club

Pitsea Running Club Pitsea Running Club applied for the Sports Development Grant from Basildon Council to help promote the club and general health and wellbeing in the local community. The club invested in new laptops and an enhanced timing device, as well as improving the organisation and promotion of race events such as the Crown 2 Crown and Bluebell 5, working directly with the Essex Wildlife Trust.

Since launching these improvements, the registration process at Pitsea events

If you are an individual living in the Basildon Borough or a non-profit making club, society or organisation based in the borough whose membership is open to the residents of the Basildon Borough and you would like information about Basildon Council’s Sports Development Grant scheme, please visit Basildon Council’s website www.basildon.gov. uk or email sportsdevelopmentgrants@ basildon.gov.uk.

Individuals may apply for up to £300 and groups up to £600. For a list of Recognised Sports, please visit: www. sportengland.org/our-work/national-work/national-governing-bodies/ sports-that-we-recognise/ We wish all recipients of the grant the best in their sporting careers.

Advertise in the Borough Diary: To advertise or enquire about rates and deadlines, call 01268 208198. Basildon Council accepts no responsibility for the content of any advertisement published in the Borough Diary and the inclusion of any advertisement does not imply approval or recommendation by the council of either the terms of any offer or service contained in it or of the advertiser.

Other formats: To receive or download the electronic version of this newspaper via email, or to download the spoken word version, please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/boroughdiary. For translations, or to receive the Borough Diary in an alternative format, please call 01268 208198.

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Please recycle your Borough Diary after reading.

Basildon Borough Council, The Basildon Centre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex, SS14 1DL. Website: www.basildon.gov.uk Telephone: 01268 533333 Email: customerservices@basildon.gov.uk Chief Executive: Bala Mahendran Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee - Councillor Gavin Callaghan