The Orpington 1st Magazine Autumn 2021

The

Magazine

Autumn edition 2021 IN THIS ISSUE • • • •

Walnuts regeneration update Priory Live review Calendar competition launches Homeless charities unite

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At ODEON Orpington from October 1 The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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Welcome...

by Orpington 1st BID Executive Director, Sharon Baldwin

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HE sun might not have shone as brightly as we had hoped but that didn’t stop Orpingtonians from having a golden summer.

What a fantastic achievement from local boy Joseph Choong winning a historic gold medal at the Tokyo Olympics in the Modern Pentathlon and local hero Dina Asher-Smith digging deep after injury to run in the relay and bring home a team bronze. Huge congratulations.

Their achievements were even greater when you consider the enormous challenges of the last year. But sport certainly builds character and that was shown to great effect by former Newstead Wood schoolgirl Emma Raducanu reaching the 4th Round at Wimbledon, and flying in the US Open as this is being written.

Keeping children active and getting them involved in something new isn’t always easy or affordable, so we were delighted to be able to bring some free summer activities into the high street for the holidays.

15,250 copies are printed of each edition of The Orpington 1st Magazine. 14,000 are delivered to homes across Orpington with a further 1,250 available to pick up at locations across the town centre.

The magazine is also available to read online, sent to a subscriber base of 6,000, and promoted to a combined social media following of over 12,000.

Orpington 1st Business Improvement District 01689 829 527 www.orpington1st.co.uk info@orpington1st.co.uk

Orpington1st If you would like to advertise in the next edition please contact us.

Our Pallet Parks played host to a range of events from acrobats and magicians to singer songwriters and story tellers, and the Walnuts shopping centre brought the seaside to the square with a traditional beach holiday inspired event including punch and Judy shows, donkey rides and dodgems - all free of charge.

Thank you to everyone who joined in and for the lovely comments received. We now look forward to welcoming you to town for the return of Flavours of Orpington, a week-long festival from September 27th – 3rd October celebrating the quality and diversity of our hospitality businesses.

Keep in touch by visiting the website and thank you for your continued support.

Contents 7 9 10 13 15 17 19 21 23

Walnuts regeneration update Councillors respond to redevelopment Orpington in Bloom Covid vaccination for young people Solicitors celebrate 70 years in town Next gen support for dementia Charities unite to support homeless Triumphant return for Priory Live Welcome back Peacocks

24 27 28 30 32 35 36 38 39

New businesses in town Get back into gear with hypnotherapy Gareth Bacon: Parliament is delivering Mayor’s first visit to town Grants make life Better for SME Business Donate, shop or volunteer at YMCA Policing Matters with Sgt Alex Farmer Hidden hero recognised in Bromley Orpington Photography Competition

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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Walnuts regeneration update from Areli After the considerable turnout at our Community Consultation Weekend between 3-5 June, Areli Real Estate are excited to continue to engage with the local community on proposals for the regeneration of the Walnuts Shopping Centre into a mixed-use development. By replacing the current shopping centre with a range of smaller retail units, new and affordable homes, senior living accommodation, a new state of the art leisure centre, an enlarged public square and improved public realm, Areli Real Estate want to create a town centre that can be used and enjoyed by all.

W

E continue to work closely with the Council on the design of the new state of the art leisure centre and the Saxon Day Centre and we hope to be able to share more detailed plans soon.

We have been encouraged by the feedback that we have received from the local community on how we wish to address the decline of the UK High Street and its impact on Orpington. A key objective of the proposals is to deliver a vibrant and distinctive town centre offer, which will make Orpington an attractive destination, supporting and improving existing town centre businesses.

The scheme will be focussed on a local and independent retail offer not currently available in Orpington, with a Borough Market style food offer a key part of the proposals.

After receiving this feedback from residents during the Community Consultation Weekend, we are carefully considering these comments and we will be sharing our response soon during future events which we hope to be able to share information on in the coming weeks.

Further information on our proposals, including information on soon to be confirmed future public events,

can be found on the project website.

We hope to be able to meet with residents again soon. We want to know what you think about our proposals, let us know by visiting www.thewalnutsorpington.co.uk/have-your-say/ For more information about the future of The Walnuts Shopping Centre, please visit www.thewalnutsorpington.co.uk.

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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Orpington Ward Councillors respond to Walnuts Redevelopment Proposals An open letter from Cllrs. Pauline Tunnicliffe, William Huntingdon-Thresher, and Kim Botting AS Ward Councillors for Orpington, whenever a new owner of the Walnuts Shopping Centre arrives we challenge them to be ambitious for Orpington. The last time that resulted in the Cinema and Hotel complex rather than the more modest refreshing of the offices they originally intended. I think everyone in Orpington has welcomed the cinema and the hotel is very well used.

With the Walnuts Shopping Centre purchase by Areli, we again challenged them to be ambitious for the centre of our community here in Orpington. Even before Covid, Town Centre businesses were facing significant challenges with the rise of internet shopping. They weren’t helped by the Walnuts Shopping and Leisure centres showing their age as they approached 50 years old.

As Ward Councillors for Orpington, we were pleased that the new owners engaged with us to understand the needs of current and future Orpington residents and businesses as they developed their proposals for the centre of Orpington. We hope the advice we have given them based on resident views has been useful and heeded. However, we appreciate that residential development is necessary to facilitate this project and that some new homes are needed in this borough.

This is an opportunity to transform and modernise Orpington offering everything that our community wants

and needs from a thriving Town Centre, which will include a food market, home and lifestyle quarter, great bars and restaurants and new public realm. This will give Orpington a unique offer and build on the character created by some of the independents already on the High Street. The development should help to ensure a sustainable retail offer which is critical in light of the impact of the pandemic.

Following the recent public consultation, we know that the majority of residents are in favour of this. However, we are aware that the principal concern was with regard to the height of the proposed 25 storey tower. We have made lengthy representations at several meetings with the CEO, Mr Rob Tincknell of Areli and his team. As a result, you may already be aware that the proposals for this tower are being revisited to reduce the height so that it is more in keeping with neighbouring buildings. We are pleased that Areli take engaging with the community, ourselves and partners seriously.

These proposals include the provision of a range of high-quality buildings and public realm to provide homes from first time buyers to retirement living. We know that many young people cannot afford traditional homes in Orpington and are having to move away, so we are keen to see the inclusion of homes that are affordable to the younger The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

generation to help them join the housing ladder. This will create a new residential community in the heart of the Town Centre, helping to regenerate the High Street, bring employment, new business opportunities and importantly will also of course protect the Green Belt.

We appreciate that Town Centre living is not for everyone, but some residents do find it very attractive, at some points of their lives. We also are aware that sufficient parking is also required.

As Ward Councillors, knowing that the Government has placed a housing target on every local authority, we are aware that local services need to expand for future residents and have for many years championed their provision. We were keen to attract the new Health and Wellbeing Centre, to Orpington, a facility where many of us recently received our vaccines.

We know that Areli are continuing to work with the Council to finalise acceptable proposals to incorporate a new state of the art leisure centre within the scheme.

For those residents who are concerned about the future of The Saxon Day Centre, please be assured that this facility will also remain.

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Orpington in Bloom Breathing life and colour into an unloved and grey concrete square, the Pop-up Pallet Park positioned on the top terrace outside of the Walnuts Leisure Centre was complemented this year by the introduction of a Mini Pallet Park outside WHSmith.

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HE two temporary installations, part of Orpington 1st Business Improvement District’s (BID) ‘Look & Feel’ programme to improve the town centre environment, also formed an element of Orpington’s annual entry into the prestigious London in Bloom competition.

Above: Families enjoy the Orpington Pallet Park 2021 Below: Floral vinyls sprucing up the shop windows at Bancroft House

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

As well as providing a pleasant place to sit and relax, or for children to play, the parklets were activated with free events for shoppers and workers to enjoy. These included amazing acrobats, having your own caricature drawn, mystifying magic, and live music.

Alongside the technicolour flower towers dotted across the high street, hanging baskets and flower beds saw the town centre blooming with colour.

Friends of the Priory worked tirelessly alongside the council

contractors Idi Verdi to keep Priory Gardens looking good and images of the gardens and high street displays were installed on the shop windows

at Bancroft House whilst the building undergoes refurbishment, making sure that even empty premises are looking their best.

Above: Three happy customers with their free caricatures Below: The giant pallet park bench proving a popular place to unwind

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

NHS Covid vaccination for young people 16 and 17 year olds and vulnerable children aged 12 to 15 can now get their NHS Covid vaccination.

This will be the Pfizer vaccine.

T

HE NHS has worked to rapidly extend the Covid vaccination programme to 16 and 17 year olds, the country’s most vulnerable children and those who live with vulnerable adults following changes in guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).

The Covid-19 vaccine is safe and effective and eligible people are urged to come forward and take up the offer. Covid-19 vaccines have saved more than 60,000 lives and prevented 22 million infections in England alone. They are building a wall of defence against the virus and are the best way to protect people from serious illness.

Every 16 and 17 year old has been contacted by their GP to arrange an appointment or they can use one of the many walk in vaccination services that are available. For up to date information on walk ins available in Bromley, visit www.selondonccg.nhs. uk/popupclinics Children aged 12 to 15 who are clinically vulnerable to Covid or live with adults who are at increased risk of serious illness from the virus have also been contacted and invited for their vaccine. For more information on vaccines for this group, please visit www.selondonccg.nhs.uk/ BromleyCYP12-15vaccination

If you have any questions about the Covid-19 vaccination programme in Bromley, please do visit www.nhsselvax.com

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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“Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly”

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Clarkson Wright & Jakes celebrates 70 years in Orpington

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HIS year, Clarkson Wright & Jakes solicitors and notaries celebrates its 70th anniversary of being in Orpington. While the firm’s origins date back to 1875 when it was based in Lincoln’s Inn, London, it was in 1951 that Neville Clarkson Wright took over from his father and established a branch office in Orpington High Street, above the Kentish Times newspaper office.

In 1979, the office moved to Valiant House in Knoll Rise, just off the high street and where it still stands today, with Managing Partner, Amanda Mehlin at the helm.

The firm is one of the largest practices in Kent with a team of 70, offering legal expertise across eight practice areas including: corporate and commercial, commercial litigation, commercial property, employment, estate administration, family, personal injury, residential property and notarial.

While the firm hasn’t been able to celebrate in a way in which it would have done, the team marked the occasion with a bake off competition and sale in aid of their charity of the year, The Chartwell Cancer Trust.

Andrew Wright, senior partner and great-great grandson of the founder of the firm, commented: “Our reputation has been built up over five generations and we owe our success to following what we like to call the ‘RITE’ values: respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. We have also invested in the right technology at the right time which has been even more important following the last 18 months. We would also like to pay tribute to all our clients and wider business community, who without their loyalty and referrals we wouldn’t be here today”.

Amanda Mehlin added: “Not a day goes by that I’m not impressed by someone’s commitment to The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

providing excellent client service.

The lawyers and support team are genuinely interested in our clients and building long-lasting relationships. We hope that in 3 years’ time we will be able to properly celebrate our 150th anniversary with our clients, who many we call our friends.

For more information or to make an appointment to speak to one of our lawyers, please contact cwj@cwj. co.uk or call 01689 887887. You can also find contact details for all the team on www.cwj.co.uk Valiant House 12 Knoll Rise Orpington BR6 0PG T 01689 887887 F 01689 887888 E cwj@cwj.co.uk DX 31603 ORPINGTON 9:00-17:45 Monday to Friday 15

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

Next generation support for dementia friendly community

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RPINGTON has a strong commitment to supporting a dementia friendly community and many of the town’s businesses have undertaken specific training to raise awareness, upskill staff, and adapt their environments to cater for those who suffer from or care for those who have this challenging illness.

Following a Dementia Friends presentation from Rotarian Brenda Parsons to 45 young people who were taking part in the National Citizen Service programme, a group of 15 chose to undertake an Alzheimer’s Society awareness and fund-raising project.

Orpington 1st was delighted to host the group at the recently installed mini pallet park in Orpington High Street, enabling the team to raise funds through a range of fun activities including face painting, a raffle, and a bake sale.

Local businesses Fab House, Mr Simms, Shapers, and Cake Box were amongst those to donate items.

Since its conception in 2009, over 600,000 young

For further information visit WeAreNCS.com

people have taken part in an NCS programme, created to help them achieve their potential and build bridges between communities. With cross-party support, NCS became a Royal Charter Body in 2018, establishing itself as a national institution.

Then, in 2019, a new network of management and delivery partners were engaged to ensure that the experience received by all participants was of the highest possible standard and consistency - supported by an incredible 150+ partner organisations including charities, football clubs, private enterprises, local councils, schools, and colleges.

2020 presented new challenges with the Covid-19 pandemic, however, with a new digital offering, the team were able to adapt their programme for the summer and create new options for the future.

A newly launched Youth Voice Forum made up of 36 young people will enable, the voices and opinions of young people to be at the heart of the organisation.

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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Bromley Homeless Adviser, Kathryn Heller, at an advice session at Orpington Baptist Church.

Charities unite to strengthen support for homeless

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EGISTERED Charity Bromley Homeless is running a weekly advice service from Orpington Baptist Church open to anyone across the London Borough of Bromley who is facing a housing crisis, whether they are sleeping rough or at risk of eviction.

After working closely together over several years, two local Christian-

inspired charities Bromley Churches Housing Action (LATCH) and the Bromley Homeless Shelter, have now joined forces to help homeless people across the borough.

The charities merged operationally on 1st April 2021, combining to work under the new name Bromley Homeless, providing advice, advocacy and support to anyone who is homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

National charity Homeless Link says the rough sleeping figure for England has increased by 52% since 2010.

Crisis says the UK’s supply of housing has not kept up with demand and that getting access to housing of any

type is becoming increasingly difficult for low-income households, meaning that the work of Bromley Homeless is critical.

As well as providing a Bromley town centre-based winter night shelter and giving talks in schools, colleges and other organisations to help prevent homelessness and raise awareness of associated issues, Bromley Homeless will run a year-round advice service for rough sleepers and vulnerably housed, collaborating with other agencies to offer medical, mental health and other support.

Orpington based sessions, run in partnership with Churches Together Orpington, will take place every Friday from 9:30am to 3:30pm at Orpington Baptist Church on Station Road.

For more information visit Bromley Homeless.Org email info@bromleyhomeless.org or call 07399 861 218.

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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FREE ‘Protect your Family Assets’ Seminar Come along to one of our regular seminars held on the second Thursday of every month Topics include: • • •

Lifetime planning for community care Inheritance tax Lasting Powers of Attorney

Upcoming dates » Thursday 9th September 2021 » Thursday 14th October 2021

Date: Second Thursday of every month Time: 4.00-5.30pm Location: Valiant House, 12 Knoll Rise, Orpington, Kent, BR6 0PG.

To reserve a place Book online at www.cwj.co.uk/seminars or contact Raisha Rahman on 01689 887 861 or email raisha.rahman@cwj.co.uk

Clarkson Wright and Jakes, Valiant House, 12 Knoll Rise, Orpington BR6 0PG | t: 01689 887 887 | cwj@cwj.co.uk

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

Dancing in The Moonlight – Priory Live headliners Toploader bring proceedings to a climax with a thousand strong singalong

A triumphant return: Priory Live 2021 On Saturday 7th August hundreds of families visited Orpington’s Priory Gardens for the eagerly anticipated return of Priory Live.

C

REATED in 2014 by organisers Talking Box Events, with sponsorship from Orpington 1st, Priory Live went on to establish a proven track record for celebrating new and creative artists. A new format and ticketed entry saw this year’s Priory Live experience being turned up to 11.

Early morning drizzle did little to dampen the mood and festival goers were soon soaking up sunshine and songs in a celebratory atmosphere all the sweeter given the recent lift of restrictions for large events.

The BBC Upload stage and children’s activity sessions extended the festival’s appeal, whilst pie and mash, gourmet

burgers, and a well-stocked bar kept merrymakers merry.

A diverse line-up of 10 hours of music was capped off with a superb headlining set from Toploader, best known for their global hit “Dancing in The Moonlight” which sold over a million copies.

Festival organiser, Nick Barclay of Talking Box events, said, “We wanted to raise the bar by bringing bigger names to town and to put on a festival full of positive post-pandemic vibes. The turnout was amazing, the artists were brilliant. It was a fantastic festival, and we are already excited about bringing more big names to Orpington next summer!”

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

Pride of Peacocks: Team Peacocks Orpington raring to go.

Orpington welcomes back fashion retailer

O

N Thursday 5th August at 9am, fashion retailer Peacocks reopened its doors on Orpington High Street.

The Walnuts Shopping Centre store was the first selected to reopen following a series of closures across the country earlier this year.

Peacock’s Penny Bazaars was established in 1884 by Albert Frank Peacock in Warrington, Cheshire.

Founded as a true Victorian Penny Bazaar selling anything and everything, the mid 1990s saw Peacocks experience significant development and growth and a greater emphasis placed on fashion. Today the store sells a wide

range of women’s, men’s and children’s fashion in a large variety of sizes and all at a great value price.

To celebrate re-opening, the Peacocks Orpington team were handing out flyers with exclusive opening day offers.

Regional Manager Les Mclean said: “We’re delighted that Peacocks will once again have a presence in Orpington following our closure in the area this February. We’re sure our new and existing customers will be pleased to see us return to the high street and we hope they all love the new store as much as we do!”

Peacocks Orpington is open 9am

Looking sharp - Orpington ward Councillors Kim Botting and Pauline Tunnicliffe were in attendance to cut the ribbon and wish the team all the best. to 5pm Monday to Saturday, and 10am to 4pm on Sunday. Visit the store at 135 High Street, Walnuts Shopping Centre, Orpington.

Left: Sharon Lamb - Peacocks Retail Divisional Manager, Chris Travers - Orpington 1st BID Manager, and Les McLean - Peacocks Area Manager. Right: A spacious and spotless store with clear new signage makes for pleasant navigation.

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

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New Businesses in Town

Below: Hans (second from right) with Orpington’s three ward councillors

FIREPLACE CONCEPTS

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FFERING “Distinctive fireplaces to warm your heart” Fireplace Concepts opened its doors at Walnuts Shopping Centre just in time for an autumnal summer.

The team behind the store, John Close and Hans Fagg, have put together an impressive showroom that boasts a fantastic product range - all displayed with style and simplicity and using works from distinguished local artists to accessorise the room sets. Alongside traditional gas and electric models, they also offer odourless biofuels providing a great ecofriendly alternative to those who want the look but not the effect of using a fossil fuel - and no need for a chimney! Products range from traditional to contemporary and even bespoke design.

Hans said, “We offer everything and anything to do with fireplaces, providing inhouse technical advice through to full installation, and we look forward to welcoming customers to come in and take a look around.”

Visit Fireplace Concepts at 14 The Walnuts or online at www.fireplaceconcepts.co.uk

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

A

NOTHER new store exploding on to the high street this summer, Smash Bang Wallop offers discounted clothing - including designer brands, as well as accessories, homeware and cosmetics..

SMASH.BANG.WALLOP!

Owner Philip, who has a wealth of experience in hospitality and retail including a stint working for Selfridges, says he has been delighted with the response they’ve had so far.

“It’s been great to meet so many customers and we’ve had nothing but positive feedback. We’re hearing that people really like what we’re doing and that we’re providing something that’s not available elsewhere.

We’re glad to be able to pass on fantastic savings to the people of Orpington and we look forward to welcoming many more.”

Visit Smash.Bang.Wallop! at 174–176 High Street.

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

Getting back into gear

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HETHER you spent the pandemic sleeping for Britain or being wide awake at stupid o’clock, it’s likely that you’ve experienced sleep disturbance at some point during the past 18 months. Perhaps you also found yourself reaching for chocolate on a daily basis or unable to work up any enthusiasm for your favourite meals. Disrupted eating and sleeping patterns are just two examples of how we react to stress. If these changes have become your new normal, they’re likely to persist in a livingwith-Covid world.

You know exactly what you should be doing – go to bed earlier, eat healthier, exercise more. So why can’t you get yourself into gear?

The answer lies in understanding how your brain responds to stress and using that to your advantage.

It’s about brain power, not will power.

Our brains consist of two parts – the intellectual and the primitive.

The intellectual brain says, “Go to bed early!”, “Eat less chocolate!”, while the primitive brain says “No! It’s my job to keep you alive and you are, aren’t you? Don’t change anything!” When stress levels are high, the primitive brain is vigilant for any potential threat. And to the primitive brain, any change is a threat, even a change for the good.

This hyper vigilance accounts for night wakefulness or difficulty in getting to sleep.

Over to the intellectual brain.

Why not try focussing on the behaviours you want to acquire, not the ones you want to lose? Your intellectual brain is highly plastic and suggestible, constantly forming new

connections. As actions and thoughts are repeated, neural connections become stronger (hard wired) while connections relating to the old habits become weaker through disuse and eventually atrophy. The key is to imagine and implement new habits repeatedly and with strong positive emotion.

Solution focussed hypnotherapy is great for helping bypass resistance and installing new thought patterns.

A good hypnotherapist works with the client to ensure that the ideas for new habits come from the client themselves. In this way, the primitive brain’s resistance to change is bypassed.

Trizia Wells is a Solution Focussed Clinical Hypnotherapist based in Orpington offering sessions in person or via Zoom.

For more information, see www.avalonclinicalhypnotherapy. com or email info@ avalonclinicalhypnotherapy.com

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

27

Parliament is back - and it’s delivering For the first time since March 2020, all Members of Parliament are able to attend the House of Commons in person.

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HILE virtual and hybrid arrangements, alongside rigorously enforced social distancing guidelines, enabled MPs to function whilst obeying rules to work from home where possible, it wasn’t without its difficulties.

With important legislation to consider and the end of the coronavirus crisis nearing, I’m pleased Parliament is back.

Gareth meeting with Karen Connolly and Nicky De Lobel from Everybreath at Priory Live Festival

One of the most important pieces of legislation going through Parliament currently, is the Nationality and Borders Bill. This is a manifesto commitment and the legislation I called for in September 2020 when I asked the Prime Minister to bring forward a Bill to tackle illegal immigration.

It will introduce strong but fair border controls and help fix our broken asylum system which is neither fair on genuine refugees who enter our country legally nor on the British public.

In 2019, the number of asylum applications increased to the highest level since the migration crisis. More than 16,000 people travelled to the UK illegally in 2020, and the removal of people with no right to be here has drastically slowed due to legal challenges. The appeals system is also too slow to

Surgery Details I am holding face-to-face surgeries on the following Fridays in 2021 between 5pm and 7pm at 6 Sevenoaks Road, Orpington, BR6 9JJ. • September 10th and 24th • November 5th and 19th

• October 8th and 22nd • December 3rd

Surgeries are by appointment only so please call 01689 603652 to book a meeting. If you need help urgently, please call Cllr. Judith Ellis on 01689 603652.

PHOTO: ERIC RUSH

cope. A third of the appeals from 2019 are still unresolved, leaving genuine refugees in limbo and delaying the removal of those with no right to be here. All this means that the cost of our asylum system now costs over £1 billion a year to run.

That’s why this Bill is desperately needed. Firstly, it will make our asylum system fairer by continuing to resettle genuine refugees fleeing conflict and instability such as the expected 25,000 Afghan refugees the UK will resettle following the Taliban takeover. Secondly, it will deter illegal entry into the UK by introducing life sentences for people smugglers and empowering Border Force to return migrant vessels. Finally, it will speed up the removal of those with no right to be here and impose visa penalties on countries that do not cooperate on the removal of their nationals.

Parliament is also considering the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill. This vital legislation will

Please do keep in touch in the following ways: • www.garethbacon.com • gareth.bacon.mp@parliament.uk For updates on local issues, follow Gareth on Facebook, Twitter, or YouTube, and sign up to his monthly newsletter at www.garethbacon.com/sign-up

GarethBaconMP

on people’s priorities protect our emergency service personnel, introduce tougher sentences for the worst crimes, and stop the automatic early release for serious, violent, and sexual offenders. I strongly support this legislation which will make Orpington and our entire country safer.

Amongst the many provisions of the Bill, the most important changes will double the maximum sentence for assaults against emergency service workers to two years; allow courts to sentence criminals who desecrate war memorials with up to ten years’ imprisonment; enable judges to jail child murderers for their entire lives.

Alongside this Bill, the government continues to deliver on its pledge to recruit 20,000 extra police officers. So far 9,814 additional officers have been recruited nationally and 1,708 of these officers are on the beat across Greater London. I’m pushing the Mayor of London and the Metropolitan Police to ensure Orpington gets its fair share of these officers to tackle crime and boost police presence locally.

As Parliament returns there are many more Bills to be considered as the Conservative government delivers on its manifesto promises. These include the Skills and Post-16 Education Bill which will ensure people can train and retrain at any stage of their lives, the Health and Care Bill which will help deliver

garethbaconmp

A column by Gareth Bacon MP

the best possible treatment for patients, and the Building Safety Bill to help leaseholders. As your MP, I will ensure your views are heard and ensure that legislation delivers for Orpington.

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

29

Mayor of Bromley Cllr. Russell Mellor sharing a joke with Imran - owner of the popular Mediterranean Bar & Grill, Scala – 132 High Street.

Sunshine and smiles for A sunny afternoon in July was the setting for a visit from the Mayor of the London Borough of Bromley Cllr. Russell Mellor.

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OSTED by Orpington 1st BID, the visit was his first to Orpington town centre since being elected mayor for 2021/22 by his colleagues in May.

Mark Clare, owner of the newly opened Record & Collectables store Jamieison talked the mayor through his experience of opening a physical store during in the pandemic. Pay him a visit at 111 High Street.

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

The BID team discussed with the mayor the continued investment in the high street, which currently enjoys an occupancy rate higher than the national and the London average, and the redevelopment proposals from shopping centre owners, Areli.

A resident of Beckenham since 1962, and an active councillor for Copers Cope Ward since 1998, Russell has two sons and is a freeman of the City of London.

He is also a member of the Institute of Marketing; a fellow

of the Institute of Directors and holder of a Diploma for Wines and Spirits.

The mayor’s business activity encompassed two main areas.

He was the senior partner of a firm that specialised in designing, manufacturing and installing aluminium curtain walling for commercial and industrial buildings. The second enterprise was the creation of a wine shipping business, importing wines from the old world under his registered brands of ‘Mellor’s’ and ‘College’.

The mayor met with several high street business owners to discuss how they have responded to the challenges of the last 18 months, and the opportunities looking forward as they trade without restrictions.

The mayor was impressed by the positivity and diversity amongst the business community, and complimentary about the look and feel of the town.

Above and Below Right: Sweetness and light - Taqi of Mr Simms Orpington at 242 High Street was pleased to host the mayor and discuss his future plans for the business.

Below left: Co-owner and head chef of Robust restaurant (254 High Street), Intrit Lala, spoke with the mayor about their starting life on the high street just days before the autumn lockdown was announced.

They have since gone on to receive excellent reviews.

mayoral visit

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

31

Better for Business

Contact the BID team 01689 829527 BID Manager Chris Travers chris.travers@orpington1st.co.uk

ORPINGTON BUSINESS LOUNGE OPENS

ORPINGTON 1ST MEMBERS RECEIVE BID BUSINESS BOOSTER GRANTS

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ORKING in partnership with London Borough of Bromley, Orpington 1st has secured an additional £125k discretionary funding for the town’s businesses which is being distributed amongst every independent BID levy payer with fewer than 250 employees.

The money has been drawn down from the Additional Restrictions Grant funding made available to local authorities by central government. Eligible businesses will receive £500, £750, or £1,000 depending on the Rateable Value of their premises.

Orpington 1st BID Manager Chris Travers said, “We’re really pleased to have secured an additional £125k for our town, in collaboration with the London Borough of Bromley. As a leading member of the borough’s task force, Orpington 1st BID has sought to maximise the amount of discretionary funding directed to our business community.

“In our discussions with the council, we have repeatedly emphasised the vital role which small businesses play in the borough’s economy, and the importance of town centres as community hubs which support the connectivity and wellbeing of the whole borough. The creation of the BBBG also recognises the additional contribution businesses in BID areas make in shaping their places.”

“Throughout the last 18 months, Orpington 1st has worked hard to ensure our members have been able to access much needed grant funding - alerting businesses to their eligibility, successfully lobbying for the expansion of criteria, supporting applications, and liaising with the council until the money is in the bank.

“These latest grants are not huge sums, but we hope they will be a small boost to our businesses.

The money can be used as they wish – perhaps a new laptop, improvements to their outdoor dining area, office, shop window display, or some extra advertising.”

If you’re an Independent SME based in Orpington town centre and you have not yet applied for the BID Business Booster Grant visit www.orpington1st. co.uk or contact BID Manager Chris Travers

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S

TART Up Bromley opened the doors of its new business lounge in Orpington Library on Wednesday 21 July. Located on the library’s first floor, the business lounge provides a new option for Orpington start-ups to work from or meet clients in a safe and secure environment. The lounge comes equipped with PCs, as well as ample desk space for your own devices, access to wi-fi and printing.

Start Up Bromley is a new free of charge membership programme designed for anyone starting a business in the London Borough of Bromley. Provided by Bromley Libraries in partnership with Bromley Council and the British Library’s Business and IP Centre Network, Start Up Bromley delivers members the facilities they need in dedicated town-centre spaces, as well access to sources of support, business advice and the opportunity to network and share experiences with other local entrepreneurs.

(Front row L-R) Start Up Bromley’s Phil Johnson, LBB Business Champion Cllr. Hannah Gray, Cllr Pauline Tunnicliffe, and Orpington Library Manager Sandie Vince were amongst those at the launch of the lounge Philip Johnson of Start Up Bromley commented: “Start Up Bromley is opening its business lounge in Orpington at a time when many people are considering setting up their own business. Our team is ready to welcome all-comers to the programme and looking forward to supporting them, no matter what stage they are at in their start-up journey.”

Lorraine McQuillan, Bromley Council’s Place Shaping and Local Economy Manager, commented, “We are delighted to be bringing the Start Up Bromley programme to Orpington and opening a new business lounge in the library, in the town centre. The Orpington lounge joins the facilities in Bromley Central Library which together will doubtless prove a valuable addition to our developing start up and enterprise culture.”

The Business Lounge at Orpington Library is open for dropin visitors, on a first come first served basis at the following times: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10am to 5pm; Thursday 10am to 1pm.

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

FLEXIBILITY IS THE FUTURE

S

UCCESSFUL Mums Career Academy have secured funding from the Mayor of London to work with Orpington based employers that encourage flexibility and diversity by including parents into their workforce.

Along with practical, short online training sessions and policy templates covering subjects such as women’s health and the menopause you will also receive free advertising to reach out to an audience of skilled women for up to two years, guidance on accreditation for flexible working plus PR opportunities as a forward-thinking employer.

Taking part is completely free and just requires a few hours of your time and an interest in implementing flexible working practices in your workplace.

Get in touch with Jane@ successfulmums.co.uk for more information or contact the academy on 0776 161 5371.

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The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

Donating, shopping or volunteering - there’s a place you can go The YMCA is the oldest and largest youth charity in the world. In England and Wales it supports 572,000 young people every year, ensuring each person has the opportunity to belong, contribute and thrive.

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T focuses on five key areas: - Support and Advice, Accommodation, Family Work, Health and Wellbeing and Training and Education. Charity shops play a huge part in raising funds needed to support vital services and to continue doing so the YMCA needs your donations.

Area manager, Stephanie, said, “We believe in an eco-friendly and sustainable environment and aim to reuse and recycle everything we are given, so please consider us before throwing anything away. You can bring your donations straight into the store and we will be happy to accept! We aim to ensure the money raised through your donations goes into local services that support local young people.”

YMCA Orpington store manager Jess Orpington store manager, Jess, added, “If you love a bargain, come and say hello. We have a large range of items including high street and designer clothing, shoes and accessories, Media, bric-a-brac, electrical goods and furniture.

Whatever you are looking for, you’re likely to find it!”

You can also support the YMCA by volunteering your time. There are many different jobs to do within the shop and the team are always looking for more happy and enthusiastic people. Are you one of those people who can spot a diamond in the rough? Perhaps you are a keen merchandiser or have a flare for social media? Stephanie says that YMCA Orpington has the role for you.

“Trial shifts are available for those who are tentative, but you will be welcomed with open arms, a hot cup of tea and plenty of laughs.

In Orpington we are inclusive of everyone so please don’t be shy.

Whether donating, shopping or volunteering - Jess, Michelle, Steve and the team cannot wait to see you all soon.”

Visit the YMCA Orpington store at 137–139 High Street, call 01689 832976 or email orpington.shop@ ymca.org.uk YMCA shop Orpington

Remember “Donate, Don’t Dump” The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

35

Policing Matters

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ELLO everyone, I hope you are well. Here is an update on some of the work your local Orpington Safer Neighbourhoods Team have been involved in over the summer.

In June, your Safer Neighbourhood Team led on a three day operation targeting vehicle related crime and burglaries in the Orpington area.

36

A column by Sergeant Alex Farmer

This was set up in response to seeing an increase in this crime type in the preceding 2 months. Over fifteen uniformed and plain clothed officers carried out proactive patrols targeting hotspot areas. Three vehicles were seized and the drivers processed for traffic related offences. A quantity of drugs was also seized following an intelligence led stop and search.

You will be aware from my last

The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

entry back in the spring that the team had received reports of crimes committed against wildlife in Priory Gardens. Through regular patrols both covertly and in uniform, Orpington officers stopped a male and a female acting suspiciously in the area. They were both searched and two offensive weapons were found on them, an axe and a catapult, together with ammunition. Both individuals are currently under investigation for various offences. The protection of wildlife across the ward remains a priority for the Orpington team.

In July, officers discovered another squat used for drugs misuse, located in a car park off the High Street. The team are currently working with the owner to have the property cleaned up and secured. In addition to this, police removed illegal squatters from a rooftop and bin area of a local supermarket, they were searched and drugs were found. These squats are linked to prolific offenders who commit ASB and crime in the high street.

We are committed to identifying these squats, those that use them and closing them down as soon as possible.

In August, police worked in tandem with the RSPCA to seize five puppies from an address in Orpington, following reports by members of the public that the animals were severely malnourished and their welfare of immediate concern. The dogs were transported to the local vets where they were treated. I’m pleased to report they are doing well and will soon be re-homed with those best placed to care for them.

In other news, officers have issued warnings under the Road Traffic Act to riders of E-Scooters in and around Orpington High Street. If these riders are stopped again, officers have

Orpington SNT

) 020 8721 2729 t @MPSOrpington * SNMailbox.OrpingtonSNT@ met.police.uk

Petts Wood & Knoll SNT

the power to seize the scooter and report the rider. It is important to remember that E-Scooters cannot be used on a public road, cycle lane or pavement. The only place they can be used legally is on private land. Offences can include driving/ riding without insurance or without a licence.

I wish you well as we head into the autumn months and look forward to meeting as many of you as possible, as the team and I patrol the ward.

Thank you for your continued support and stay safe.

) 020 8721 2609 t @MPSPettsWood * SNMailbox-PettsWoodand KnollSNT@met.police.uk Nearest police station: Bromley Police Station, High Street, Bromley BR1 1ER

t @met.police.uk

f Facebook.com/metpoliceuk

For crime prevention advice visit www.met.police.uk/ crimeprevention To report a crime call 101 or visit www.met.police.uk.

In an emergency always dial 999.

The Orpington British Legion Club • Member Incentives • Regular Entertainment/Events • Lunchtime Clubs • Safe and Friendly Environment

• Darts • Pool • Sky Sports • BT Sports

ENQUIRE NOW FOR MEMBERSHIP DETAILS OPENING TIMES • Monday Closed Tuesday & Thursday 4pm-11pm • Wednesday 12 noon-11pm Friday & Saturday 12 noon-11:30pm • Sunday 12 noon -9pm

5 Church Hill, Orpington BR6 0HE • 01689 820162 www.rblorpington.co.uk • orpingtonrbl@outlook.com The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

37

Hidden hero recognised in Bromley A Bromley GP has been recognised as a ‘hidden hero’ for his innovative work which is making a real difference to local primary care services.

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R Mark Essop has been awarded a Hidden Heroes award for Outstanding Performance during the Pandemic. These awards recognise outstanding service in primary care services and were established to identify and celebrate some of the excellent individuals and teams and their incredible work.

Dr Essop received the award for his barcoded flu clinic system which was used to support GP practices during the largest flu vaccination campaign in 2020. The system involves sending each patient an invitation for their flu vaccination with a barcoded, tear off ticket which is then presented at the flu clinic. It means that no appointment booking is necessary, the admin process is reduced, appointments are quick, face to face contact is minimal and data entry is highly efficient. It enabled practices to hold mass flu vaccination clinics, whilst maintaining social distancing.

Dr Essop created easy to use resources which were shared online and with practice managers and GPs across the country. He held webinars, offered advice, and would troubleshoot issues any of his local practices encountered. This gave practices the tools and confidence to deliver vaccinations to large cohorts of patients whilst they were in the midst of managing organisational change and public anxiety at the height of the pandemic.

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Dr Mark Essop Implementing the system in Bromley contributed to the borough being one of the highest performers in London for delivery of the flu vaccination.

Dr Essop works for the South East London Clinical Commissioning Group as a clinical lead for IT and has worked as a GP in Bromley for many years. He said, “I feel overwhelmed and proud to have received this award and being recognised for my clinical IT work during the pandemic. I am delighted that the barcoding system has made a real difference to the efficiency of our flu vaccination programme and improved patient experience”.

The awards were established by four Companies who are playing The Orpington 1st Magazine • Autumn 2021

a key role in supporting General Practice with the pandemic: Dene Healthcare, Gama Healthcare, Interface Clinical Services and Practice Index. Tom Jones of Dene Healthcare said, “2020 was an unprecedented year for health services. Our awards recognise the amazing work being undertaken in primary care services every day, so we are delighted to recognise Mark’s contribution during the most challenging period in modern times”.

Feedback from patients has been very positive. “I thought your arrangements for flu jabs were superb – brilliantly planned and executed by a group of very cheerful and helpful staff”. “Such a brilliant, fast and slick process – pat on the back for everyone involved”.

Orpington Photography Competition 2021

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T’S that time of year again when keen photographers of Orpington get the chance to show off their skills - the seventh annual Orpington Photography Competition is now open for entries!

The last eighteen months have given many the chance to look at their surroundings with a fresh perspective, so what better opportunity to celebrate the people and places of Orpington as captured through your own lens - whether taken with a professional camera or smartphone. Send us your shots for the chance to have your work

featured in the Orpington 1st 2022 calendar and win a £100 voucher for an Orpington town centre restaurant of your choice.

The photograph can be of anything - the perfect sunset, a magic moment at an event, friends having fun, or a local landmark, it’s up to you, but it must have been taken in a location with a BR5 or BR6 postcode.

To enter, visit www. orpington1st.co.uk (where you can also read the rules), download an entry form and return it along with your entry.

The closing date is October 15, 2021.

Some of the entries that made it to the 2021 Calendar.

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