EBC today - Autumn/Winter 2023

Inside EBC today

The people of Erewash voted for change in this year’s local elections. At the same time, the new administration has been entrusted with delivering efficient services for residents across the borough.

The greatest challenge is doing so in the teeth of a cost-of-living crisis. While the council itself has been badly squeezed – not least by years of government cuts to local spending – it is you, the good citizens of Erewash, who are suffering most. Local people continue to see bills for fuel, food and keeping a roof over their heads skyrocketing.

This is why your new leadership at Erewash Borough Council has vowed that our No1 priority is helping residents through the cost-of-living nightmare.

There is no magic pot of money to do this. The council is already having to identify any new savings it can make while finding ways to use far less cash to maintain the vital services it already runs.

We are determined to live within our means. That involves working with partner organisations wherever we can to deliver on the cost-of-living pledge –while wringing every ounce of available funding from the government.

EBC Newsletter

The communications team at EBC will be launching a bright new and more regular newsletter in the spring of next year.

Our readers will be able to select the news information that they would like to receive by signing-up to the online news stream via the council’s website and social media platforms.

I would like to thank all our readers, contributors, and advertisers for helping to make EBC today a great success over the years’ – as this is likely to be

James Dawson, Leader of the Council

Levelling-up money from Whitehall is transforming the centre of Long Eaton.

In Ilkeston there are plans to launch a free shuttle bus to the top of town.

Again, this is NOT council tax money paying for it. Erewash fought to get what is in effect “use it or lose it” funding from the government.

Being honest with residents is another key pledge by the new town hall leadership.

The council is facing tough choices we would sooner not have to make. To just maintain services as they are would mean a budget black hole of more than £1million next year.

We are determined to balance the books and find a sustainable way of operating.

But having said that, our promise to residents amid the unprecedented costof-living squeeze remains. We WILL deliver on your priorities.

Changing People’s Lives

the last issue. The first issue of EBC today was launched in 2010 and the final issue will be number forty-nine. Great memories, great stories and well read!

Look out for the newsletter sign-up information on our website and social media platforms over the coming months.

Stewart A Millar, Editor EBC today.

£76m

fund to combat squeeze

FRONTLINE community organisations supporting those on low incomes have until 16 October to apply for a share of a £76million fund.

Grants are worth between £10,000 and £75,000 to charities and other non-profit groups in Erewash that can demonstrate they offer critical services.

The focus amid the economic squeeze is on small to medium-sized organisations providing food and emergency supplies, emergency shelter, safe spaces, warmth and financial or housing advice.

The Community Organisations Cost of Living Fund (CCLF) has been launched by the government with help from The National Lottery Community Fund.

For more information visit www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

with cost of living?

Hard-up Erewash residents face an increasing struggle to make ends meet amid the cost-of-living crisis - and the council is here to do what it can to help.

Fuel poverty is predicted by TV’s Martin Lewis to be even worse this winter than last after the Government warned it is pulling the plug on subsidising sky-high bills.

Ten million people across the country are estimated by the Financial Conduct Authority to be in financial straits. The Erewash Borough Council website is packed with practical steps for residents with money worries –click on the tab Cost of Living.

Consumer champion Martin says the FIRST step for those daunted by energy bills should be to contact their supplier as soon as possible. He explains on his MoneySavingExpert website: “Under rules from regulator Ofgem, your supplier has to help you –usually by negotiating a payment plan that you can afford.”

Further help is available from Citizens Advice, which has an Erewash hub in Ilkeston on Heanor Road. The organisation is independent but partners with Erewash Borough Council, which helps to fund it. Contact details can be found on our website.

If you don’t have enough money to live on, Citizens Advice can be invaluable.

To help keep bills down, householders and those renting from private landlords may be entitled to money towards making homes more energy efficient. This could include insulation or a new boiler.

Citizens Advice can give guidance on this, including information for those in social housing. You can check if you can get help from the Boiler Upgrade

Scheme at the website GOV.UK

For more information on green grants, other cost of living entitlements and even food banks, visit erewash.gov.uk

Council leader James Dawson said: “When money is as tight as it is – including for the council – we want to reassure people across the borough that we are doing everything in our power to make life more bearable for those in dire straits.”

Case study 1

TOM is 60 and lives alone in a rented housing association property. The stroke sufferer was baffled after being switched to a new electricity provider in someone else’s name. This meant he got no government Energy Support Scheme payments. Citizens Advice contacted the Ombudsman. His account was switched back. He got the payments he was entitled to – plus £80 compensation.

Case study 2

FRANK and JENNIFER are both over 65 and feared going into debt as they battled to manage their household budget. Both receive disability benefits. They were put in touch with Citizens Advice who found the couple were not getting their full entitlement. Thanks to this their income increased by an amazing £12,579 a year.

Case study 3

SALLY was living hand to mouth and was at her wits’ end. She was put in touch with Derbyshire’s Welfare Rights Service. She said: “I was having suicidal thoughts as I had no money.” In just one year, the service has helped residents access more than £26million in additional benefits. Sally said: “The advisor was extremely friendly and helpful.

Hub makes health a priority

Let’s talk walks

A ‘story walk’ has been installed at West Park in Long Eaton. Visitors to the park just need to follow the markers around and read the story of Jake, Amber, and their dog Bob. Scan the QR code and have it read to you. Perfect for families to explore this great park.

Interested in becoming a walk leader and starting a walking group?

The council is working hard to improve health and wellbeing in the Erewash community.

Its Community Health and Wellbeing team are involved in a number of wellness networks across the borough, including in Cotmanhay.

Wellness networks – which also operate in Petersham, Kirk Hallam and Sandiacre & Sawley - bring interested groups and residents together through a community activator for each area. In Cotmanhay this is Isabel Greed, who listens to what local residents would like to see in the area and works with local groups to try to make it happen.

In Cotmanhay, the priorities are: young families, young people, older people, people experiencing difficulties in the cost of living crisis, and the wider community.

Councillor Claire Marie Poole, Lead Member for Health and Wellbeing, says: “By working towards these priorities and being part of the Cotmanhay Community Wellness Hub, the idea is that partners will work together more cohesively.”

Events and activities have included a children’s litter pick, run in conjunction with the local school nurses and Parkside High Community Interest Company, and a family fun day at the Pavilion.

The Wellness Hub supported by a volunteer created a small community garden by sourcing plants provided by the council.

There has been a weekly coffee morning drop in at the The People’s Centre on Beauvale Drive which will hopefully be moving to a monthly drop in with councillors and other providers.

Past funding has supported the Cotmanhay Community Network to continue to run throughout the cost of living crisis, offering the community pantry, lunch club and providing a safe space for community groups to access and run events and regular activities. It has also supported Parkside to set up a gardening group for children.

Going forward, it is hoped that groups will be able to apply for funding to carry out work in the community.

More residents and community groups are invited to be involved in the Community Wellness Hub.

To get involved email Isabel.greed@erewash.gov.uk

The council delivers walk leader training throughout the year in Erewash with Walk Derbyshire.

If you are interested then get in touch with Katherine.simpson@erewash.gov.uk

In the meantime, join one of our current walks:

• Long Eaton Health Walks: Monday 10am

• Monday Strollers Victoria Park: Monday 10.15am

• Stanley Health Walk, meeting outside post office: Tuesday 10.30am

• Nordic Walking, meeting outside Victoria Park: Tuesday 10.30am

• Gentle Walks in Erewash: Every third Thursday 10.30am

• Accessible Walk and Talk: West Park Every third Saturday 2pm

Visit walkderbyshire.org.uk for more information and walking routes.

Walk Derbyshire aims to promote all walking opportunities across the county and make every day walking the norm for all residents of Derbyshire. Rachel, 53, found herself struggling to keep active due to injuries and general aches and pains.

She signed up to the online ‘Walk 1,000 Miles’ challenge. Starting with 500 miles, she walked herself back to improved health and fitness one step and walk at a time.

Photo shows some of the partners involved in the Cotmanhay Community Wellness Hub on a local Netwalking event.

Community grants boost

A fresh boost to community groups and organisations across Erewash has been launched by the borough council – which is offering them fast funding grants of up to £1,500.

The total local pot for grants – £60,000 – is money the council won from the government to allocate over the next two years.

There is no minimum sum that organisations can apply for under a new streamlined process.

Eligible groups include registered charities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises.

All will need to show their projects benefit Erewash residents and that the grants will lead to an increase in public engagement.

Projects that help tackle the cost-ofliving crisis or that improve mental and physical health are especially sought.

Christmas parking

At the time of going to print members were considering free parking in council car parks in Erewash over the Christmas period.

In previous years the free parking has covered the two week Christmas and new year period, with free parking from 10am.

The scheme aims to encourage shoppers into the town centres over the festive period. It does not include Long Eaton Train Station.

Nominations will be invited for the Active Lives Awards in Erewash 2023.

These celebrate physical activity, community development and achievements of people in our communities.

PThere will be 10 award categories ranging from individual awards to group and place awards.

The awards ceremony will take place during December. Details of the nomination schedule will be released by the council in September.

Nomination forms will be available in September on the council website or from communityhealthwellbeing@ erewash.gov.uk.

Acti e Lives

The council’s website has details on how to apply.

Council deputy leader Councillor Becca Everett, the Lead Member for Community Engagement, said: “We recognise that local organisations support the work the council is doing and that they often rely on volunteers.

“These organisations are invaluable and deserve all the help they can get to flourish.”

Signs of recovery

NEW shops opening in Ilkeston and Long Eaton can get up to £2,000 from the council for top-quality store signs.

The two-year initiative aims to encourage the use of empty premises while “enhancing the street scene”. It comes after the council battled to government funding.

Erewash Indoor Bowls Centre

Wild Bears Forest School CIC

Canal Vue Care Home

Purpose built care home in Ilkeston

Chess Maestro of Canal Vue Care Home: Meet MJ, a Source of True Inspiration!

We’re turning the spotlight on an inspirational individual at Canal Vue Care Home: Meet MJ, a resident who, despite his blindness, is a beacon of hope and determination, showing all of us that disability does not get in the way of his passion in life.

Despite his challenges, he masterfully showcases the resilience and adaptability of the mind, embodying the spirit of "It's not about the cards you're dealt, but how you play the game."

MJ's passion for chess serves as a reminder of our individual potential, urging us to embrace opportunities and be inspired. Care is about recognising and respecting the unique journey of each individual, providing the tools and environment everyone needs to succeed and be who they want to be.

Be inspired by the care and support on o er at Canal Vue Care Home.

Canal Vue Care Home is a purpose built modern residential care home designed to provide the very best in residential, dementia care and respite for older people.

Situated in a scenic and peaceful canal-side setting, the home o ers convenient access to Ilkeston railway station or the M1 and is less than 7 miles from the centre of Nottingham.

Managed by a highly skilled and experienced team of carers, comfort in a safe caring environment awaits you with a very warm welcome.

Arrange your visit by calling the home on

Enquiries: 0115 932 6390

enquiries@eastgatecare.co.uk

www.eastgatecare.co.uk

Backing Long Eaton

delivering town centre regeneration

Long Eaton Stable Block

This exciting project is underway and will see the former stable block, next to Long Eaton Town Hall, converted into modern office space.

Work was put on hold in July due to the building contractor going into administration, but much progress has already been made at the site with the external and internal strip out complete.

Erewash Borough Council and the Long Eaton Town Deal Board are keen to move on with the project and plans are in place to reprocure the project and find a new contractor to complete the work.

A number of companies have already expressed interest in the project, and a number of businesses have shown interest in occupying the units on completion.

The Long Eaton Town Deal was launched in 2021 and aims to transform Long Eaton for future generations with nearly £25m of government funding following a successful bid by Erewash Borough Council.

Chair of the Long Eaton Town Deal board, Richard Ledger, says: “I have seen the progress that has been made at the site and am impressed by what I have seen. Now we will be bringing another company on board to complete the project which will benefit Erewash businesses looking for office space.”

There are five projects that benefit from the Long Eaton funding. As the projects move forward they are subject to change, taking account of external factors that are beyond the control of the Long Eaton Town Board.

Long eaton Town Board

Another funfair for us to go nuts over

Funfair lovers in Erewash have another huge event to look forward to after Ilkeston’s ancient spectacular – the Chestnut Fair in Long Eaton.

The town will host a cavalcade of rides in November – a fortnight after the borough’s annual bonfire extravaganza in West Park.

This year’s fireworks are on Saturday 4 November. The threeday Chestnut Fair will be officially opened by Mayor of Erewash Councillor Frank Phillips on Thursday 16 November.

The ceremony marking the event being almost three decades old will take place at the dodgems on Beaconsfield Car Park. Rides and stalls stretch along the High Street to the Market Place.

Erewash council’s deputy leader Councillor Becca Everett, who is the Lead Member for Community Engagement, said: “It’s often a bit chilly in November but the Chestnut Fair always brings a warm glow to the hearts of locals.

“It is a spectacular highlight of the year that can be enjoyed by families and people of all ages.”

The fair runs from Wednesday 15 November to Saturday 18 November.

Our parks win 6 top awards

for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

Judges were impressed by Long Eaton’s West Park and the nearby Forbes Hole Local Nature Reserve, Straws Bridge in Ilkeston, Pioneer Meadows in Kirk Hallam and Ilkeston’s Victoria Park.

Fair 10 things you

Six prestigious national awards have been scooped by Erewash council for its management of parks and green spaces in the borough.

Five are Green Flag accolades for keeping local havens pristine.

The awards are presented by the Keep Britain Tidy campaign on behalf of the Department

All have been previous winners. The sixth award –a coveted Green Heritage Accreditation – went to Victoria Park. The honour is backed by Historic England and salutes efforts to maintain the historically significant elements of the park.

Erewash has 650 acres of parks, open spaces and nature reserves.

1. The fair is held on the first Thursday after the first Sunday after the 11th of October (although it unofficially starts on the Wednesday at 6pm).

2. There used to be TWO fairs until they were amalgamated in the 19th Century. The older of these - dating back seven centuries - was held on the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin of Our Lady in August.

3. Showman John Albert Proctor loved Ilkeston so much that in 1922 he became a town councillor and lived at Dragon House on Stanton Road.

play

It’s a charter for Ilkeston fun again

New Mayor of Erewash Support is available

The countdown is on to the biggest party in Ilkeston –the town’s spectacular annual Charter Fair.

The much-loved autumn festival of fun – one of the largest street fairs in Europe – kicks off on Wednesday 18 October although it does not officially open until the next day.

That is when the Mayor of Erewash Councillor Frank Phillips will ring a bell after the reading of the ancient 1252 charter for the fair, which was a decree by King Henry III. It begins with the historic words: “Know ye that we have granted . . . “

The Mayor - clad in official regalia including a chainthen usually heads straight for the dodgems.

The fair is open from 6pm-11pm on Wednesday and at noon until 11pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

The opening ceremony on Thursday 19 October is at 11.15am and always draws huge crowds.

It is the 771st Ilkeston fair. And we have great news for residents – who can get discounts on a host of attractions with £10 worth of vouchers in this issue of EBC Today.

Erewash deputy leader Councillor Becca Everett, who is the council’s Lead Member for Community Engagement, said: “Amid the cost of living crisis we know every little helps.

“We want the fair to be a chance for families across the borough to have some fun.”

never knew about Ilkeston fair

4. The only occasion the fair has been cancelled apart from in wartime was in 2020 - as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

5. The fair is so ancient that it is even older than Nottingham’s famous Goose Fair.

6. The opening of the fair by the Mayor is now a tradition but is relatively recent –happening for the first time in 1931.

7. Constructing the fairground rides begins after showmen’s lorries begin turning up a week before opening. But after the fair ends on Saturday night everything has virtually vanished by dawn.

8. Ilkeston people often baffle strangers by describing wintry conditions such as cold or rain as “fair weather”.

9. The legendary Dive Bomber was the most terrifying ride in the 1970s - but would be tame now compared to latest attractions that would dwarf it.

10. Pious King Henry III, who granted the charter, was only nine when he assumed the throne - so barely old enough for hook-a-duck!

Vouchers valid at participating rides. Please check with ride operator before handing in voucher.Vouchers valid between 6pm-9pm

Ready, willing and Able

A coveted badge is presented to a proud sea cadet – who has been picked to accompany the Mayor of Erewash on official engagements.

The 16-year-old – Able Cadet Maltby – was honoured by Mayor Councillor Frank Phillips. The badge bears the council’s crest and the official title of “Mayor’s Cadet”.

The civic visit saw a host of awards and promotions at Long Eaton Sea Cadets, which is attended by recruits aged ten to 18 from across the borough.

The Mayor heard how the corps has more than doubled to 75 in the past few years.

Keep up with the intrepid youngsters’ adventures on the Long Eaton Sea Cadets Facebook page.

Derby Arena

Fri 8 – Sun 31 Dec

£30 – £18 TICKETS SELLING FAST!

Supported by

Hurricane over town

Thousands winged their way to Ilkeston as a World War Two fighter roared overhead for the town’s annual motor show.

The Hawker Hurricane braved August clouds to salute crowds who flocked to see more than 300 cars, buses and other vehicles on display on the Market Place and surrounding streets.

The Ilkeston Heritage and Classic Vehicle Show was first staged 11 years ago. It is now Ilkeston’s biggest annual event apart from the town’s historic street fair.

The car show is organised by Erewash Partnership Events, in conjunction with volunteers and enthusiasts.

The Erewash Partnership business confederation is a strategic partner of Erewash Borough Council.

Derby’s own award-winning Dame MORGAN BRIND

Fare cop for airport taxis

A spokesman for the council’s team said: “The vehicle was brought to the council office later the same day to show the defect was rectified and the vehicle had two new tyres.”

Another of the drivers licensed by Erewash was not wearing his identity badge. This too resulted in an infringement notice.

Brown bin dates

A major blitz on dodgy taxis saw Erewash council licensing and enforcement officers join police in swooping on vehicles at East Midlands Airport.

The “multi-agency” crackdown was just the latest in several that take place during the year to keep passengers and other road users safe.

Teams from neighbouring councils were also involved, along with HM Revenue and Customs.

More than 100 taxis were pulled over. Their vehicles were thoroughly checked and the drivers quizzed. Seven of the vehicles were found to be licensed by Erewash Borough Council – and one had a tyre with tread below the legal limit.

Its driver was served with an infringement notice. The offender’s vehicle licence was immediately suspended.

The spokesman said: “Two infringement notices served in a sixmonth period would require the driver to attend a licensing panel to consider suitability to be a licensed hackney carriage and private hire driver.”

Hundreds of taxis and private hire vehicles flock to the airport daily. Roadside spot checks are mounted throughout the year to intercept those that are unlicensed or otherwise working illegally.

Councillor Joel Bryan, Lead Member for environment said: “Joint operations are important to keep not only the public but taxi drivers themselves safe.

“The vast majority of drivers and taxis were found to be fine - which is reassuring.”

Trade body the National Private Hire & Taxi Association welcomed the operation.

Clean up after your pooch

The council’s dog wardens are appealing to local residents to help them in a crackdown by getting in touch to give as many details as possible of any known offenders –including the locations and regular walk times.

The council continues to offer residents a dog mess clean-up service. People can make a request by text on 07792 701 583 or by creating a My Erewash account.

The dates for the end of garden waste collections in the borough during the winter have been confirmed.

In the north of the borough, Ilkeston and surrounding areas, the last garden waste collection will be the week commencing November 27. The collections will begin again week starting February 19, 2024.

In the south of the borough, Long Eaton and surrounding areas, the last garden waste collection will be week commencing December 4. Collections will begin again the week of February 26, 2024.

During the winter months brown bins can be used for extra dry recycling, that is: paper, plastic, glass, tins, cans and cardboard.

Councillor Joel Bryan, Lead Member for Environment, says: “We would like to remind residents that the garden waste collections will pause for the winter months when their brown bins can be used for extra recycling. People are encouraged to get out in their gardens and make use of the collections while they can.”

See pages 22-23 for the dates for Christmas waste collections for black and blue bins.

The menace of dog mess often gets worse as the nights draw in as ‘can’t be bothered’ owners use the cover of darkness to leave behind their pet’s poop.

Ashmere is a family run business providing the very best care across Derbyshire. Our ethos is that we are here for everyone, from our residents right through to the families too When the time comes to find a care provider we know that there are many questions that need to be answered and our personal approach ensures you get the opportunity to speak with our care team directly and addresses all the questions you may have.

"When my mother went to live at Heanor Park Care Home, I don't think any of us realised just how very poorly she was Three months on, and she is a different person Surrounded by a team and genuine carers, with good food, the friendship of other residents, and a safe, warm, calm environment and the resources to recover - such that she now plays an active part, at times able to give back for her new friends As she put it - "this is Derbyshire, this is me, and I am very happy here"

-Review from carehome co uk October 2022

Our Homes and Contact Information

Matlock, DE4 3BN

Wet Wet Wet goes down a storm

Revellers at the annual Summer Sounds festival in Erewash refused to let a spot of rain dampen their spirits - as Wet Wet Wet frontman “Marti Pellow” wowed crowds.

The tribute act joined “Take That” and “Kylie” at the annual Sunday gathering in Ilkeston’s Victoria Park, where more than 1,000 music lovers defied forecasts of sorry summer weather.

Many enjoyed picnics on what turned out to be a fine day – apart from a half-hour monsoon just as Marti joined the party.

The new Mayor of Erewash Councillor Frank Phillips opened the free event, which was celebrating its 13th year. First to

take to the bandstand was rock n roll crooner Alan Becks.

Special guest star Jolly Jingles the clown entertained kids who got to enjoy face painting. The kneesup was among a host of events staged by the council across the borough. Others included jazz and brass band concerts.

Erewash council’s Deputy Leader Councillor Becca Everett, who is the Lead Member for Community Engagement, said: “We were fairly lucky with the weather in what was not a great summer for sunshine.”

Event diary

Our Queen Remembered: Now until Sep 29, Erewash Museum Ilkeston

Enchanted Garden: Sat 16 Sep,

Erewash Museum Ilkeston 11am to 3pm

Ilkeston Charter Fair: Wed 18 Oct to Sat 21 Oct

Halloween Week Extravaganza: Until Sat Oct 28, Erewash Museum

Ilkeston

Bonfire and Fireworks Spectacular: Sat 4 Nov, West Park, Long Eaton. Gates open 5pm

Armistice Day: Sat 11 Nov from 10:45am at Ilkeston Market Place Cenotaph and St Laurence’s Churchyard, Long Eaton

Stargazing Event: Sat 11 Nov, Erewash Museum Ilkeston 6pm to 9pm

Remembrance Day Services and Parades: Sun 12 Nov Ilkeston and Long Eaton 10:45am

Chestnut Fair: Thur 16 Nov to Sat 18 Nov, Long Eaton

Long Eaton Christmas Lights Switch-on: Thur 23 Nov, from 5.30pm

Ilkeston Christmas Lights Switch-on: Fri 24 Nov, from 5.30pm

Craftsmas Fair: Fri 24 Nov, Erewash Museum Ilkeston 5:30pm to 8:30pm

Santa Saturdays: Sat 9 Dec and Sat 16 Dec, Erewash Museum Ilkeston 10am to 3pm

VIDEO/AUDIO PRODUCTION

Fire prevention advice

The fire service target areas and households where there is a higher risk of fire, primarily the more vulnerable groups in the community. To find out if you are eligible for a ‘Safe and Well Check’ email: SouthAreaAdmin@derbys-fire.gov.uk

Report anti-social behaviour

Firefighters are urging residents to ensure they live safe from the risk of fire in a reminder following a fatal fire in West Hallam in which a man died. The house did not have smoke alarms.

As part of Erewash Community Safety Partnership, the council works closely with Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service, which provides free ‘Safe and Well Checks’ in which they will fit or check smoke alarms in homes and provide a personalised fire safety plan.

The Fire Service also launched the ‘15 minutes to save a life’ campaign earlier this year which is an online digital form which walks users through the home fire safety check, and creates a personalised safety and escape plan. Visit derbys-fire. gov.uk for more information on fire safety and to access the DIY digital form.

Councillor Becca Everett, lead member for Community Engagement, says: “Following the tragic incident in West Hallam recently I would encourage everyone to check that their smoke alarm is working, or to get them fitted if they do not already have them.”

Anyone who has any reports of anti-social behaviour in Erewash can contact Derbyshire

Constabulary at:

• www.derbyshire.police.uk

• Facebook – send a private message to the Derbyshire

Constabulary Facebook page

• Twitter – direct message the contact centre via @DerPolContact

• Phone – call 101

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity CrimeStoppers, on 0800 555 111, or crimestoppers-uk.org/

Joy death sadness

A popular Erewash Borough Council employee has sadly died.

Joy Thompson, aged 63, worked as a press officer in the council’s communications team for 16 years and was an integral member of the team who produced EBC Today magazine. Before joining the council she spent many years as a journalist and news editor on the Mansfield Chad.

Joy’s funeral was held at Bramcote Crematorium on August 1 where donations for the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society raised £275.

Lifesaver: Melted smoke alarm after it went off and East Midlands family fled house blaze

A VJ Day Service of Remembrance was held at the Cenotaph on Ilkeston Market Place on 15 August. The Mayor of Erewash, Councillor Frank Phillips, attended along with the Leader of the council, Councillor James Dawson. Organised by the llkeston Branch of the Royal British Legion, Victory Over Japan Day marks the day Japan surrendered in the Second World War in 1945.

EREWASH LEISURE

With our qualified Level 2 Swimming Instructors you can progress through the Swim England Learn to Swim Programme.

Lessons start from 3 months to adults. Stages to suit all abilities from beginners to advanced and Rookie Lifesaving.

Includes free general swimming for all children. Swimming is a life skill that not only saves lives but builds confidence and is a healthy form of exercise for all ages.

It's never too late to learn.

Scan the QR codes to enrol or for more information give us a call

Victoria Park Leisure Centre

0115 9440400

West Park Leisure Centre

0115 9461400

Work starts at mill site

Work has begun on the building of 46 new affordable homes at a former lace factory in Oakleys Road, Long Eaton.

The development by emh Group at the former Oaklea Mill, will include a mix of rented affordable homes and shared ownership houses ranging from one to four bedroomed homes.

The leader of the Council, Councillor James Dawson and the Chief Executive of emh, Chan Kataria officially marked the start of construction at the site. They met on site with other representatives of the council, emh and the developers MyPad.

Councillor James Dawson, Leader of Erewash Borough Council, says:

“We need more homes in the borough, particularly affordable

housing for those on Erewash’s housing register, some of whom will be facing homelessness, or living in difficult conditions. Also, buying a home is out of reach for many people.

“The 46 new homes for rent and for shared ownership are really welcome. We know emh will provide well-managed, energy efficient and long-term homes for local residents.

“The council is proud of our partnership with emh and we look forward to coming back again in the next 18 months or so, to greet residents in their new homes.”

The new affordable homes will help towards meeting the housing needs of Erewash residents

It is anticipated that the homes, on Oakleys Road, Long Eaton will be completed by spring 2025.

Call B4 You Serve

If you are a private sector landlord Erewash Borough Council can provide you with free, impartial help and support to try to resolve any issues.

The council is here to help and wants to work with landlords.

Call B4 You Serve listens to landlords and helps them navigate any tenancy issues before they serve an eviction notice and can also assist by providing direct support to their tenants.

Call B4 You Serve includes:

• Support for landlords and tenants in what can be a very stressful time.

• Help to create a personalised housing plan agreed between the landlord and tenant.

• Rent arrears help and financial assessments.

• Referrals and signposting to specialist services for more long-term support if needed.

• A mediation service between landlords, tenants and the council.

Landlords can get in touch with the service by calling (01332) 640962 or emailing CB4YS@derby.gov.uk.

Keep warm and well during the colder months

Very cold weather can affect anyone, but you are most vulnerable if you are elderly and/or disabled, on a low income, have a long-term health condition or have young children.

So here are some tips on being prepared for the cold weather and saving energy costs.

Keep your home warm Heat your home to at least 18°C.

Draw curtains at dusk and keep doors closed to block draughts.

Get your heating system checked by a qualified professional.

Check your loft insulation is at least 270mm thick.

If you have cavity walls make sure they are insulated too.

Insulate your hot water cylinder and pipes.

Draught proof gaps around windows and doors.

Protect your health in the cold. Contact your GP or pharmacist about a free flu jab.

Wear several layers of clothes rather than one chunky layer.

Independent persons sought

The council is seeking to appoint two Independent Persons for five years.

The two Independent Persons will be appointed under the Localism Act 2011 to support the Monitoring Officer in reviewing complaints received against Erewash Borough and Parish councillors. In addition to this they will also sit on the Standards Committee although they do not have any voting rights.

An Independent Person may be required to consider the recommendation of a Sub-Committee of the Council to dismiss one of its Statutory Officers (Head of Paid Service, Monitoring Officer or Chief Finance Officer) and passing on a view to Council for determination.There will be a fixed allowance of £750 per annum.

An Independent Person will have:

• a keen interest in standards in public life.

• a wish to serve the local community and uphold local democracy.

• the ability to be objective, independent and impartial.

• sound decision making skills

• leadership qualities, particularly in respect of exercising sound judgement.

A person cannot be appointed if they are/ were within a period of 5 years prior to the appointment:

• a member, co-opted member or officer of the authority.

• a member, co-opted member or officer of a parish council in the Borough Council’s area, or a relative or close friend of the above.

For further details and to request an application pack contact Democratic Services on 0115 9071154 or by email democratic@erewash.gov.uk.

Alternatively, you can request a pack in writing to: Independent Personapplication pack, Democratic Services, Erewash Borough Council, Town Hall, Ilkeston Derbyshire DE7 5RP

North Zone Christmas & New Year

refuse collections 2023/24

Changes to regular North Zone collections

Breadsall, Cotmanhay, Dale Abbey, Kirk Hallam, Ilkeston, Little Eaton, Morley, Ockbrook, Stanley, Stanley Common, Stanton by Dale, West Hallam.

Normal Collection Day

Revised Collection Day   

Wednesday 29

Brown Bins

After your last garden waste collection of the year is completed during the week commencing 27th November 2023 you can use your brown bin for presenting recycling. The last recycling collection from brown bins will be during the week commencing 5th February 2024. After this collection recycling can only be presented in blue bins, brown bins with a blue lid and/or in green bags. Garden waste collections will resume during the week commencing 19th February 2024.

South Zone Christmas & New Year

Collection Key

Kerbside recycling and garden waste

recycling & LAST garden waste collection

Brown Bins

Kerbside recycling (no garden waste)

No refuse / recycling collections

After your last garden waste collection of the year is completed during the week commencing 4th December 2023 you can use your brown bin for presenting recycling. The last recycling collection from brown bins will be during the week commencing 12th February 2024. After this collection recycling can only be presented in blue bins, brown bins with a blue lid and/or in green bags. Garden waste collections will resume during the week commencing 26th February 2024.