South Swindon Link March 2018

LINK No 19 March 2018

Swindon

Delivered door to door to 50,000 households across Swindon with Est. overall readership of 125,000

Your Community Magazine

The Service Sector p27

South Edition

Swindon Life p19

www.swindonlink.com

Swindon Lives: Jago gets on his bike for cystic fibrosis p25

The Puzzle Page p31

Old Town goes green for Eco Fest

p3

Community: P2-20

Swindon Wide: P21 - 29

Leisure: P30-39

S March Master pages.indd 1

08/10/2018 14:52

S March Master pages.indd 2

08/10/2018 14:52

An exciting year ahead

Swindon ready for second Eco Fest

By Claire Dukes claire@swindonlink.com

By Group Editor Jamie Hill jamie@swindonlink.com

2017 was an exciting year for Swindon Link but now 2018 has come along, flounced into the room and dramatically announced 'You ain't seen nothing yet!'

Last year we expanded our operations with the launch of the East edition - taking the amount of homes we deliver to in Swindon to 50,000. That's over half the homes in Swindon and cements our place as the print media organisation with the biggest reach in the town.

And this year is going to be even bigger. We're in the process of investing in our websites to make sure we give you, the readers, the best possible all round experience.

Already you might have seen some changes with the stealth launch of our new logo last month which has been received very well.

We are also looking at employing more staff to bolster our sales team in the next few months so watch this space if you fancy working for Positive Media Group.

At the heart of everything we do is positive community news and, as always, please get in contact if you have a good news story for us.

Director: James Phipps Group Editor: Jamie Hill Deputy Editor: Ben Fitzgerald Associate: Roger Ogle Reporter: Claire Dukes Sales Admin Manager: Sue Roberts Sales: Dave Stewart, Rosy Presley & Nataley Fryer Office Manager: Karen Randall Photography: Richard Wintle & Rachel Davis - www.calyxpix.com

Swindon's Eco fest will be returning next month for its second event on Sunday 22 April, alligning with Earth Day; a globally recognised event which occurs every year.

For the second fest, as per 2016, Swindon Eco Fest 2018 is being hosted and organised

by Swindon Climate Action Network (SCAN) and Eastcott Community Organisation at Saverake Street Hall, SN1 3LZ, from 11am to 5pm. Swindon Eco Fest is also being supported by innogy and WeSET; two Swindon-based companies working for renewable energy from local sources.

The event is family-friendly and free to attend and will include a range of stalls, free talks, and locally sourced food and drink to purchase throughout the day. There will also be local organisations on site with free information regarding topics such as biodiversity, climate change, plastic pollution, and much more. Further entertainment is to be announced later in the month.

ADVERTISING Call 01793 781502 or email: advertising@swindonlink.com Closing date for April adverts and editorial: 9 March April edition published: 23 March Our Statistics Est. Readership of 125,000 in print & c.25,000 monthly online visitors.

Swindon’s largest free publication.

Advertising starts from just ÂŁ51.

The contents of The Link are protected by copyright. Use of advertisements in printed or electronic form is forbidden unless an advertiser or publisher has sought permission. Articles and photographs require similar authority.

Positive Media Group Limited cannot be held responsible for goods or services or the copyright of content supplied by our advertisers.

Positive Media Group Limited, Unit 3, Arclite House, Century Road, Swindon SN5 5YN

T: 01793 744677 Email: publisher@swindonlink.com

Reg. in England & Wales. No: 4513027, at Arclite House, Hillmead, Swindon SN5 5YN. Printed by pcp Telford

Got a community story or feature? Contact newsdesk at publisher@swindonlink.com or 01793 744677 swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 3

3

08/10/2018 14:52

4

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 4

08/10/2018 14:52

Swindon 105.5 celebrates decade of broadcasting Swindon 105.5 is celebrating a decade on the airwaves.

The station, based at the Liden Centre is a non-commercial radio service which nurtures strong links with the community.

As station manager Shirley Ludford puts it: "it's run by Swindon for Swindon," with about 120 local people involved in running the station.

Funding for the station is provided by grants, donations, corporate support, fundraising events and support in-kind.

Swindon 105.5 is the only locallybased station that's broadcasting 24 hours a day. Following a 4-week trial in 2006, the station applied for a licence in 2007 and launched ten years ago - in March 2008.

This year the station is planning ten events to celebrate ten years including a party on Saturday 24 March at Swindon Town Football Club's Legends Lounge from 7.30pm. Tickets cost £10 available from the station and it includes a buffet, entertainment, disco and raffle.

Station manager Shirley Ludford celebrates with some of the members of the Swindon 105.5 team

By station manager Shirley Ludford The town crier cried, the mayor led the countdown and dozens of people cheered as Swindon 105.5 was declared live and broadcasting as the town's community radio station.

Presenters Shirley Ludford and Peter Heaton-Jones announced the first track of music and people danced to Dancing In The Street!

The launch took place on 15 March 2008 at Swindon Town Football Club, where the station had studios for the first two years of its life, following a successful four-week trial two years earlier at the Bull Dog Pub with co-founder Ian Rowe.

Shirley took on the role of station manager and set up studios and trained volunteer presenters.

She said: “I describe the studios as an inverted Tardis!

Loads of reach out into the community from tiny facilities.”

Demand for training and

volunteering continually grew and in 2010 the station moved to the Bentley Centre, Stratton Road developing three studios and a production suite.

The number of volunteers and training programmes continued to rocket.

Like most community stations, Swindon 105.5 was totally reliant on grants, donations and fundraising.

2013 saw a visit by Culture Minister Ed Vaizey, supported

by MP Robert Buckland and Shirley was subsequently invited to the House of Commons to help put the case for some on-air sponsorship

and advertising to help support stations across the country.

The bid proved successful, though the station still also relies on creative initiatives and grants to support its locally unique service.

In 2014 the station received a Queens Award (MBE) delivered by HRH The Duke of Kent.

Add in portable outside broadcast equipment from a Police & Crime Commissioner grant, a mobile staging unit to support local events from Smiths News, a lottery grant digital desk for one studio and a huge amount of good will, corporate support and volunteer engagement and the station enjoys the greatest mix of community reach and involvement in the Borough.

2018 The “Service to the Community Award” was received from the South West Business & Community Awards.

Thousands of people of all ages and abilities have

developed skills including social, communication and digital, some becoming volunteers, some going on to further education or employment.

Drove school children were the youngest in the UK to gain an NCFE certificate after completing a Station accredited course. Demand for support for people with autism has grown rapidly and there are many inspiring stories of individual achievements.

On air, the Station broadcasts 24-hour a day broadcast with a wide range of programmes.

Off air it is a unique training and volunteering service.

All with the aim of working with, by and for Swindon, from a firm studio base since January 2016 at The Liden Centre, off Liden Drive.

To get involved, find out about advertising your business or more, call Swindon 611555.

Check out www.swindon1055.com swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 5

5

08/10/2018 14:52

Pool talk date set The Thamesdown Hydrotherapy Pool will be the subject of a talk at the next meeting of the Swindon Osteoporosis Support Group. Pool manager, Neil Montgomery will be the speaker. The meeting will take place at the Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square, Swindon, SN1 3QA on Friday, 9 March at 1.30pm.

There is an entrance charge of £2.50 which includes refreshments. For further information, contact Ali on 01793 63442 or swindonosteoporosis@ googlemail.com

Backing dog charity

Hilary Coate's Wagging Tails home dog boarding have become a corporate sponsor for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People - having 'adopted a puppy' which they can follow through its training.

Keep updated with the progress of Neve by heading to the Wagging Tails facebook group. www.facebook.com/ WaggingTailsSN

Swindon Dragon Boat Festival returns

By Claire Dukes claire@swindonlink.com

On Sunday 24 June the sixth Swindon Dragon Boat Festival will take place at the Coate Water Country Park.

The event, organised by the Rotary Club of Swindon Phoenix, will see teams of 12 to 17 paddling Dragon Boats across the Water Park in a battle to become the 2018 Champions. Racing will start at 10am. Expecting to be bigger than last year, the event will reach out to families and spectators as well as budding rowers.

Around 14 teams have entered the racing already with more teams are welcome.

The event gives teams a great chance to have a fun day out and in doing so they can raise money for a charity of their choice. There will be a fancy dress competition for the best dressed team and lots of

medals and trophies to be won.

Each team can be made up of between 12 to 20 people, from work colleagues, pub members, club members or charity workers. The entry fee is £500 with an initial deposit of £150. Once a team is registered then the Rotary Club will set up a ‘Just Giving’ page for the team members to raise money for their chosen charity. All the funds raised via Just Giving will go direct to the chosen charity.

As well as teams battling it out on the Water Park there will be stalls, musical entertainment, barbecues, a beer tent and lots more for all the family and participants to enjoy on the day.

Entry and further information on the event can be found through the Rotary Club of Swindon Phoenix Dragon Boat website www.swindondragonboat.org. uk.

Air Quality Action plan proposed for Kingshill

New chief constable

Previous assistant Chief Constable Kier Pritchard will take on the role of Chief Constable following previous incumbent Mike Veale’s decision to move to Cleveland Police.

Kier Pritchard, who has served as a police officer in Wiltshire since 1993 and as ACC since 2014, will take on the new post on 5 March.

The experienced officer also graduated from the Strategic Command Course in 2016.

6

Swindon Council will look to declare an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) in a bid to tackle poor air quality in the Kingshill Road area.

A modelling exercise using air quality monitoring data found that Kingshill Road exceeded the national air quality objectives for nitrogen dioxide m3.

Cllr Cathy Martyn, Swindon

Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Housing and Public Safety, said: “By officially declaring this as an air quality management area, we would ensure we are taking positive and proactive steps to tackle poor air quality along this road and want to work with residents to explore positive ways we can improve air quality for everyone, from encouraging

walking and reducing the volume of traffic, to tackling idling engines.

“Air quality in Swindon is relatively good and we are doing a lot to improve it including promoting active and sustainable travel, designing neighbourhoods to encourage healthy lifestyles and travel choices, and promoting cleaner energy.”

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 6

08/10/2018 14:52

Buy a conservatory and get an eco-friendly room Experts in home improvement

With over 50 years experience we can project manage your new conservatory from start to finish, creating an additional room tailor made to suit your needs all year round.

SALE

WITH F R SCATT EE CUSHIOER NS

Market leaders in conservatory technology

Receive up to £2,000 Free* towards any combination of: • Cane, Rattan or Laminated Wood Furniture • Tiled Floors • Ceiling Fans • Electric Heaters • Lights

OFFE MUST RS E IN MA ND RCH

*Terms and conditions apply

Conservatory Furniture Collection Huge range of Cane, Rattan, Laminated wood combinations New fabrics available Free local delivery

Show site at: Manor Garden Centre, Cheney Manor, Swindon SN2 2QJ OPEN 7 DAYS Tel: 01793 526691 • conservatoryworld@btconnect.com • www.conservatorycentres.co.uk

S March Master pages.indd 7

08/10/2018 14:52

Judges decide who should be honored for 2018 award

By Ben Fitzgerald ben@swindonlink.com

A judging panel drawn from the voluntary and business community of Swindon met to decide on who should be judged winners of this year’s Pride of Swindon awards.

An impressive shortlist of 33 worthy nominated individuals and 16 teams was whittled down to a field of eight winning individuals and five winning teams after an agonising process of discussion and debate.

Names of the winners are being kept close to the organisers’ chests ahead of the awards ceremony at the Steam Museum on March 22.

Individuals and teams who have been selected as a certificate winner and those who have been earmarked for a Pride of Swindon Award will be invited to attend the

Last year's winners and members of the judging panel gather on the steps of Borough Council Offices at the launch of the 2018 Pride of Swindon Awards

ceremony at which the winners will be announced.

On the judging panel overseen by head of the Zurich Community Trust Pam Webb were representatives from Swindon Link, Swindon 105.5,

Swindon Advertiser, Voluntary Action Swindon, the Volunteer Centre Swindon, Nationwide, Zurich, McDonald’s, and the Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson .

This year is Pam Webb’s

first in the chairman’s role - a post previously filled by the late Tony Martin who died in September at the age of 61.

His contribution will be honoured at the ceremony later this month.

Sixty seconds that give premature babies the best start Keeping premature babies attached to their mother for just one extra minute during delivery can dramatically improve the little one’s chances of survival.

Ninety per cent of all premature arrivals at the Great Western Hospital now benefit from the simple yet significant procedure.

This leading performance in delayed cord clamping makes the Swindon hospital one of the best in the world for offering the treatment.

By not cutting the umbilical cord until at least 60 seconds after birth, a baby’s risk of developing serious brain bleeds and gut complications is significantly lowered.

It’s just one of a number of positive headlines to have materialised from GWH's Special Care Baby Unit following an ambitious yearlong quality improvement drive.

The project saw the team focus on ten simple actions, 8

which have been found to have the most positive impact on the health of preterm babies, and apply as many of the interventions as possible to every birth at the hospital.

Dr Sarah Bates, Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, said: “Having a premature baby is one of the most testing experiences a parent can go through, but families coming here should feel reassured by the work that’s happened over the last 12 months.

“Not only have we increased

delayed cord clamping from 15 per cent of births to 88 per cent, we’ve seen really encouraging results in other important areas, such as newborn nutrition.

“It’s a clear indication that our teams are doing everything they can to ensure all babies receive the best possible start to life.”

Data from the project revealed the time taken for babies to receive their mother’s milk has improved, from more than a day this time last year to just a few hours

after birth at the beginning of 2018.

It means that mums can give their little one the essential nutrients they need much quicker than before.

A state-of-the-art breast pump, which was donated to SCBU by neonatal charity New Life, has played a massive part in helping the team reduce these crucial waiting times. While the full extent of the project’s success remains to be seen, early indications suggest the combined improvements have led to an overall reduction in the number of babies suffering serious brain injury, which paves the way for an improved quality of life.

Dr Bates said: “I am so proud of the entire team of midwives, doctors, nurses and pharmacists, who all volunteered for this project because of their incredible passion for supporting premature babies at the time when they need it most."

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 8

08/10/2018 14:52

New dental practice to open in East Wichel A new planning application has been received by Swindon Borough Council for a new dental practice to open at Unit A, Staldon Court in East Wichel.

The Dental Practice would provide services to both NHS and private patients and would comprise of a threesurgery practice along with a waiting area for patients.

The practice would employ three dentists together with a hygienist and receptionist.

The application seeks a change of use from A class (shops) uses to D1 (nonresidential institutions) to enable the use of the site as a dentist.

The exterior will remain as existing with internal alterations to create three consulting rooms as well as a waiting area.

The application’s plans can be viewed at http://pa1.

swindon.gov.uk/publicaccess by entering the application number S/17/2027 into the search box.

Old Town & East Wichel Councillor, Nadine Watts, said: “I welcome the news of a new dental practice opening in East Wichel subject to planning permission. I believe that there is a huge demand in the local area for dental places and this will help many residents of East

Wichel.

“It is great to hear that the proposed change of use is not speculative and there is a confirmed end user for the site.

It would be a most welcome addition to the neighbourhood centre.”

The Dental Practice would be open up to 6 days a week between 08:00-19:00 Monday to Friday and 08:00-13:00 on Saturdays.

Commonweal teams up with Swindon City of Sanctuary Last month a ‘School of Sanctuary’ launch event was hosted by Commonweal School.

The concept behind the collaboration between schools across the region and City of Sanctuary is to develop the already open and welcoming ethos toward asylum seekers and refugees.

Delegates from primary and secondary schools from around the South West collaborated to plan for their year ahead, promoting and embedding the ideals behind the project.

Supported and led by City of Sanctuary, delegates worked together to develop their ideas.

With a focus on celebrating the diversity in Swindon’s community, The Commonweal School and Swindon City of Sanctuary hope to continue to build on an inclusive culture both within and beyond the school walls.

A spokesperson for Commonweal School said: “It was a wonderful opportunity to

hear about the work already being done. And it will be a rewarding journey ahead, working towards gaining Schools of Sanctuary status over the next year.”

Bereavement help

Bereaved parents are being offered support at a special support day running on June 9 in Highworth Community Centre. The Support Day offers understanding, encouragement and support to any parent who has suffered the death of a son or daughter in any circumstance and at any age. The event offers the chance to meet and share with other parents who have suffered the death of a child. The day will be led

by Bereaved Parent Support Co-ordinators Kath and Mike Coulson and their team. They lost their eldest son Philip, then aged seven, in 1994.

Tickets cost £22 per person.

For information call 029 2081 0800.

Cancer care group

People affected by cancer can now come together as part of a new group and have their collective voices listened to by experts from the Great Western Hospital.

The Swindon Cancer Partnership Group, which will meet four times a year, gives cancer patients a platform to share their thoughts and give them direct access to specialist medical staff.

For more information, contact the GWH Cancer Team on 01793 646152 or at gwh. gwhcancerpartnership@nhs. net.

Charity quiz night

Swindon Therapy Centre, a charity which supports those with MS and other neurological conditions, is holding a fundraising quiz night on March 16.

The event, which starts at 7pm, will be held at Swindon Supermarine Community Room in South Marston.

Tickets cost £10 and can be bought from Swindon Therapy Centre or by contacting 01793 481700.

Entry includes food and a bar is available to purchase drinks. swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 9

9

08/10/2018 14:52

Exhausted with fumes over Old Town

Our family service caring for you

John Pearce (left), Belinda, Tracy and David.

Here for you when needed most

A truly personal and compassionate service

available 24 hours a day, every day of the year Included in The Good Funeral Guide since 2011 in recognition of our high standards of service

Pre-paid funeral plans

• Home visits available

Providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones Our Prepaid Funeral Plans provide a 100% Guarantee of our funeral director services and fees required for cremation at today’s costs, whilst also enabling you to record your funeral wishes in full.

Our Fully Guaranteed Prepaid Funeral Plans start from £3,350* For extra peace of mind, a complimentary, professionally written Will can be provided (if required).

The option of paying by monthly instalments is also available.

To receive a £75 discount on these fees please contact us, quoting the reference ‘Link1’ Town Office 1 Groundwell Road, Swindon SN1 2LT

01793 422422 Chapel of Rest 92 Ermin Street, Stratton St Margaret SN3 4NN

01793 832072 www.pearcefuneralservices.co.uk info@pearcefuneralservices.co.uk * for the option of burial a contribution of £1250 will be made towards third party costs. Valid until 31st March 2018

10

By Old Town Residents Association

After our first piece in the Link magazine introducing ourselves, we have had two local residents interested in coming to our meetings, which is great.

In a recent meeting, we spent some time discussing that Swindon has an area where levels of air pollution, due to exhaust fumes, are above government guidelines, triggering it to be declared an Air Management Quality Area. At our next meeting we will have two specialists in public health coming to discuss ideas for reducing the levels of nitrogen oxides in the affected area in Kingshill.

A local company operates an incinerator and an extractor fan pouring fumes into the railway cutting at Signal Way. We are concerned about the harm these emissions are doing.

We were very fortunate to have a local police officer at one of our meetings. The main concern was speeding on Croft Road. Community Speedwatch will be operating soon - under resourcing of the service makes it very hard to have the time to catch speeding motorists. We will investigate how staffing levels are determined in the near future.

Requests were made for

a traffic impact update with Marlborough Park development in its second stage, and proposed developments at Broome Manor Golf club.

We were encouraged to vote for Swindon Dolphins on the Old Town Facebook page, in the Persimmon Homes £200,000 giveaway. If they won they might be able to preserve the small pool at Milton Road.

The demolition of the old Clifton Street School started on Friday 9 February, shocking local residents, it has been temporarily halted but not before part of the roof was removed.

Former St. Margaret’s Road resident, Stan Yeates has been fondly remembered in a eulogy by Andy Binks, the full transcript will appear on our Facebook page.

The bench outside Expressions card shop at the end of Wood St has been taken away by the Rotary Club - they are hoping to reinstate soon. This is their bicentary year, so we’re hoping to hear of exciting plans to celebrate soon.

For information regarding our upcomng meetings visit www.facebook.com/groups/ oldtownresidents/

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 10

08/10/2018 14:52

S March Master pages.indd 11

08/10/2018 14:53

Plans for 2,750 homes agreed A joint venture agreement has been signed between Swindon Borough Council and Barratt Developments to bring around 2,750 homes to the 250 hectare Wichelstowe development to the south of Swindon.

More than 1,000 jobs will be supported by the scheme in the initial stages and the first residents will move in during 2019.

Outline planning permission was granted for the entire Wichelstowe development in 2005, and approximately 800 homes have already been built in the East Wichel area.

Cllr Toby Elliott, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning and Sustainability, said: “This is a significant deal for the Council and for Swindon.

"The joint venture partnership will see us working closely over the long term with the UK’s biggest and most successful

12

housebuilder.

“Our aim with Wichelstowe is to build a community that will be very attractive to live in, and with all the facilities nearby that people need and value.

"We have already made a start with the existing Waitrose and the construction of the new district centre and secondary school in the area known as Canalside, which means facilities will be there for new buyers from the start.”

Chris Burton, Regional Managing Director, Barratt Developments West Region, said: “We are extremely pleased to be moving the Wichelstowe development forward.

This is a very important scheme and I’m delighted to report that we share Swindon Borough Council’s vision in creating an outstanding place to live for the people of Swindon and further afield.”

Get your skates on for the Urban Rider Games

Talented skaters, BMX and scooter riders are set to descend on Swindon to take part in the 4th annual Urban Rider Games.

The not-for-profit event will be taking place on 30 March, in the ATBShop Skate Warehouse in Hawksworth Industrial Estate.

Last year's event attracted about 500 spectators and riders. More than 120 competitors took part.

The aim of the event is to raise awareness for better free facilities for young riders. The Oasis Skatepark is now in a

dilapidated state and it’s the same story with many across the UK. Organisers want councils to take the riders seriously and provide them with new parks or renovate the old ones.

The Urban Rider Games started four years ago, as a way to showcase the street sports talent in Swindon and prove the need for better free facilities in Swindon.

To find out more contact Diana Kirk on 01793 523244 Email: diana@atbshop.co.uk www.atbshop.co.uk/ urbanridergames

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 12

08/10/2018 14:53

South Swindon Parish Council Spring 2018 newsletter

Shaftesbury Lake improvements will transform nature area

Shaftesbury Lake forms the boundary between South Swindon Parish Council and Nythe, Eldene and Liden Parish Council.

The Parish Council is looking

Parish newsletters

South Swindon Parish Council produced their first newsletter in the Autumn. Unfortunately, some areas of the parish did not receive their copy; I would like to apologise to those parishioners that did not receive the first newsletter.

The Parish Council is entering

to improve the western side of the lake and bring back fishing to the lake.

Improvements will include a tarmac path from the road to the northern bridge, (which

is currently a muddy track and difficult to walk), new fishing platforms with some for disabled people and children and removal of some of the couch grass and dead trees to

the final stages of negotiation to secure leases for assets such as community centres, playgrounds and formal parks.

Once secured the parish will be in a position to re-invest, maintain and improve these assets.

Cllr Chris Watts, Chair

The two formal parks in Swindon are both within the parish of South Swindon; being Town Gardens and Queens Park.

The Parish Council is very keen to secure the future of these formal parks and ensure that they continue to be kept as public open space for everyone to enjoy.

The Parish Council has already been funding the maintenance of the parks

Broadgreen Community Centre The Parish Council has been running Broadgreen Community Centre since July 2017. The centre had been earmarked for closure by Swindon Borough Council in April. The Parish Council has taken a 1 year licence to see if it can make the centre viable and the initial signs are good.

To book the centre please visit www.book-online.co.uk/ broadgreen.

The Parish Council plans to hold a Food Festival at Broadgreen Community Centre on 16 June 2018.

For more information contact Gifty, the Community Centre Manager through the parish office.

Old Town Library refurbished

Old Town Library has been refurbished by the Parish Council.

The library now contains a room which is focused on young children and includes two murals designed by children's book illustrator Fred Blunt.

The photograph gives you a flavour of the new space, but please come along with your children to take a look.

Old Town Library is open: Tuesday 1.30-4.30pm; Thursday 10.30am-4.30pm; Friday 1.30-4.30pm; Saturday 10am-1pm The library will continue to have an adult section and it is still possible to order books, as before.

The Parish Council held a

make it more accessible to the public.

The Parish Council hope to start this work in the Spring and make a difference to this nature area.

Securing the future of formal parks

as part of the StreetSmart Contract.

They have now decided that they would like to run this operation themselves and the staff currently employed will move across to the Parish Council in April.

As well as the maintenance, the Parish Council would like to take over the parks completely and is in negotiations with Swindon Borough Council to lease the parks.

Council tax remains unchanged South Swindon Parish Council has set its first budget as a Parish Council and the council tax will remain the same as last year.

This means that a Band D property will pay £114.90 per annum. The Precept (amount required to run the council)

will be increased to £2,071K and this will be absorbed by the number of new houses that have been occupied in the parish this year.

More information about the council tax and how the funds are used is available on the Parish Council's website.

Grants distributed

short re-opening ceremony on Saturday 9 December 2017 where Cllr Janine Howarth, Vice-Chair of the Parish Council and Fred Blunt performed the ceremony.

The library has started to hold a story time every Tuesday at 2pm-2.30pm (term-time).

These are informal session of stories, rhymes and songs for pre-school babies/toddlers/ children to enjoy together with their parent/carer.

The Parish Council has given out £17,000 in grants which includes funds for the Christmas Lights at Old Town, start up funds for a local family

group and support for local community centres, to name a few. More details, together with an application form are on the Parish Council website.

Ground maintenance for this summer The Parish Council's decision to engage StreetSmart to supply street cleaning and grass cutting services has proved successful in the first year.

The Parish Council will again be using the services of StreetSmart to carry out the grounds maintenance for the coming season, but will also be commencing a tender

process to ensure we are receiving value for money.

We will continue the enhanced service that includes a three week grass cutting rota.

This proved to be very popular with parishioners last summer who saw a real improvement in the standard of the service.

(Central Swindon South Parish Council) Clerk: Joyce Holman Telephone: 01793 312006

S March Master pages.indd 13

Website: www.southswindon-pc.gov.uk

Email: clerk@southswindon-pc.gov.uk

08/10/2018 14:53

‘Snowasis’: detailed plans submitted by developer SevenCapital has submitted a detailed planning application for the North Star site in Swindon. This comes just over two months after the developer’s outline planning for the £270 million scheme was approved.

Plans for North Star Village, SevenCapital’s proposed name, include: two indoor ski slopes and a family snow play area all with real snow, a 12-screen cinema including the UK’s largest IMAX screen, 19 lane bowling alley, 27,000 sq ft indoor trampolining centre, food and beverage units sized between 900 – 6,200 sq ft and up to 46,000 sq ft of complementary retail units.

The plans also include a 130 bed hotel, up to 16,000 sq ft of space allocated for a new fitness gym and a 900-space car park.

The existing Oasis Leisure Centre, on which SevenCapital

14

recently carried out remedial works and which already attracts about 615,000 visitors per year, is also encompassed within the proposal and will be set to benefit from a 3.3 million average footfall that CBRE has forecast the North Star Village will attract.

John Watkins, Director at SevenCapital said: “Since we took on the project in July we have worked to ensure that

we deliver a comprehensive scheme that will be of significant benefit to Swindon and put the town on the map.

“We understand the importance this development holds within the community and as we originally promised, have submitted our full proposal well within the nine months we anticipated.

“The plans we have proposed are designed to transform the

North Star site into a world class leisure destination and we are confident that the scheme will be well received by Swindon Borough Council.”

Pending full planning approval, SevenCapital plans to be onsite to begin works before the end of the year.

For more information about SevenCapital - the developer behind the scheme - visit www. sevencapital.com.

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 14

08/10/2018 14:53

Plans in the pipeline to secure future of Health Hydro Plans to secure the future of Swindon’s Health Hydro as a sustainable leisure facility that retains its key heritage aspects is at the centre of an options appraisal that will be carried out over the next few months.

Swindon Borough Council, which owns the Milton Road leisure facility, and its operator, charitable social enterprise GLL, will commission the study following the completion of a conservation plan and condition survey.

A council-funded conservation plan has highlighted the many important heritage features of the building and included a detailed measured survey.

GLL paid for the condition survey, which concluded that although the building is structurally sound, the nature of it means there are always maintenance, renewal and repair activities required.

According to the survey, £1.7 million needs to be spent on maintaining the Victorian

building over the next 10 years.

The council and GLL are working with a steering group that includes representatives of heritage groups and the swimming clubs as key stakeholders. The group has been closely involved in commissioning the work to date and will continue to do so in the future.

The options work will use the conservation plan and condition survey to identify viable options for the whole

building, recognising its current main leisure uses in the shape of the main pool, Turkish baths and gym, while conserving and enhancing the heritage aspects of this important building.

Cllr Mary Martin, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Place, said: “The Council and GLL recognise the importance of the Health Hydro as a heritage asset and that there are challenges around the running costs, the backlog maintenance and the small

pool. We are working closely with the Health Hydro steering group to come up with a sustainable solution for one of the town’s most important buildings.”

Daniel Rose, Director of the Trust said ‘We have been pleased to work as part of the Hydro steering group which was formed following deep concerns regarding the future of the building 12 months ago.

The Trust has been pleased with the work carried out by specialist consultants to create the conservation plan which reaffirms how significant the Health Hydro is not just in Swindon but nationally and internationally.

We now look forward to working with stakeholders in the creation of an Options Appraisal which we hope provides a clear route to ensuring the building is protected into the future and continues to be an accessible and well loved local building.”

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 15

15

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 16

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 17

08/10/2018 14:53

Fundraisers to walk a mile in memory of Sabrina

Wellwishers and fundraisers are set to take part in a charity walk in memory of Sabrina Moccia on Saturday March 24.

Employment coach Sabina died in January 2016 at the age of 33 from complications arising from diabetes.

Sabrina's Mile - inspired by Canadian athlete Terry Fox who raised $24.7 million by running 6,500 miles - sees fundraisers walking a mile to raise money to help local

18

people cope with diabetes.

Organiser Sandy Jonsson said: "What is so unique is the fact that almost everyone can achieve a mile, and your mile can be completed anywhere in the world. If you can't join us at one of our events, but would like to support this great cause you can donate on line."

The event is held on Saturday 24 March at Coate Water from 10am-3pm www.sabrinamoccia.org

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 18

08/10/2018 14:53

Swindon Life Celebrating town living

Swindon super star, Maisie Sly, debuts in Oscar nominated film Rachel Shenton’s heartfelt tale of a deaf child who is struggling to communicate was brought to life by Director Chris Overton.

Writer and Actress Shenton (Switched at Birth) stars in the film, alongside newcomer Maisie Sly and Rachel Fielding (Secret Diary of a Call Girl), The Silent Child has won over twenty awards since its world premiere at Rhode Island International Film Festival and has now been nominated for a 2018 Academy Award.

The Silent Child centres around a profoundly deaf four year old

girl named Libby who is born into a middle class family and lives in a world of silence until a caring social worker teaches her the gift of communication.

Director Chris Overton began his career as an actor and worked with industry greats such as Joel Schumacher and the Oscar winning director Roman Polanski.

The Silent Child is Chris’s first short film and what would arguably be one of his most challenging, with the lead actress being a profoundly deaf five year old girl who communicates only in British sign language.

The Oscars are to be held on Sunday 4 March.

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 19

19

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 20

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 21

08/10/2018 14:53

Butternut, red onion & pumpkin seed salad

[serves 4 as a side] Pair the sweetness of butternut and roasted red onions for a fantastic winter side salad. To turn it into a full meal, add cooked Puy or dark green lentils, goat’s cheese or feta and perhaps some strips of roasted red peppers.

3 red onions, sliced into 1cm-thick discs 6–7 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 medium butternut squash, peeled & cut into chunks a few thyme sprigs (optional) 30g pumpkin seeds pinch of hot smoked paprika

22

1 tbsp red or white wine vinegar (or use more balsamic) 1 tsp Dijon mustard, or to taste ¼ tsp crushed garlic, 1 bag of mixed salad leaves (100–150g) salt & black pepper Heat the oven to 190°C/ Gas 5. Keeping the onion discs whole, place them in a roasting tin and drizzle with a tablespoon or two of olive oil, the balsamic vinegar and a splash of water.

Season with salt and pepper. Cover the tin with foil

and roast for 30–40 minutes on a low shelf in the oven, until the onions are soft and sweet.

Place the squash chunks in another roasting tin, toss with a further tablespoon or so of oil to coat and a good sprinkling of salt and roast for around 30 minutes, until tender and lightly caramelised, throwing in the sprigs of thyme halfway through the cooking time (if using). While the vegetables are roasting, put the pumpkin seeds in a small pan with a teaspoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt and a pinch

of paprika. Toast over a medium heat, stirring or tossing frequently, until lightly browned, then transfer to a plate to stop them toasting further. Make a simple vinaigrette: whisk together the vinegar, around 3 tablespoons of olive oil, the mustard and garlic to taste. Season with salt and pepper.

Put the salad leaves in a large salad bowl, pour over the dressing and toss to combine. Scatter over the butternut, onions and seeds.

For more amazing RIverford recipes go to www.riverford. co.uk/recipes

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 22

08/10/2018 14:53

Swindon Spotlight

YOUR GUIDE TO THE MONTH AHEAD In the community l Founder of Wiltshire-based Sweet Cumin, Bini Ludlow, has been announced as the second keynote speaker for this year’s Women in Business Conference, to be held on Thursday 8 March.

Tickets cost £37 Further details and ticket reservation online at www. theenterprisenetwork.co.uk

Book now...

SWINDON FRINGE FESTIVAL RETURNS IN APRIL

From 4 April to 15 April, there’s something for all ages to enjoy, including fabulous comedians, fun family shows, exciting workshops, and live music.

Never has it been a more exciting time to for you to witness artists testing their new material and getting your feedback on their performances.

Unlike some of the bigger events across the UK, the Swindon Fringe, or “the Swinge” as it is affectionately known, does not charge those who take part. The Swinge welcomes both local and international acts that are both daring and thought-provoking.

This is an opportunity to watch acts perfect their material prior to the Brighton Fringe in May and the Edinburgh Fringe in August.

For more information, simply go to the official website: www.swindonfringefestival.com

JUPLICITY

QI favourite and much-loved comedian Phill Jupitus will be taking his latest show, Juplicity, to Swindon Arts Centre March 11.

Our reporter had a chat with Phill and this show promises to challenge convention, as well as opportunity to badge swap with the man himself.

Tickets at £17.50 www.swindontheatres.co.uk

BIRDSONG

Marking the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War, Birdsong is the hit, critically acclaimed stage show based on the world famous novel

by Sebastian Faulks which will be taking to the stage at Wyvern Theatre March 20 to March 24.

Tickets at £16 to £25 www.swindontheatres.co.uk

BLACK SHEEP APPRENTICE

Swindon rock band Black Sheep Apprentice celebrate the launch of their new album, Born To Walk Alone.

Inspired by the likes of Johnny Cash, and Nick Cave, the band present their own unique genre of country music at Wyvern Theatre March 29.

Tickets from £11 to £13.50 www.swindontheatres.co.uk

Venues Arts Centre, Devizes Road SN1 4BJ. Tel: 01793 524481 www.swindontheatres.co.uk Central Community Centre, Emlyn Square SN1 5BP. Tel: 01793 420649 The Platform, Faringdon Road, Swindon SN1 5BJ Phoenix Theatre, New College Drive, Swindon, SN3 1AH. Tel: 01793 732889 The Rolleston, 73 Commercial Road, Swindon SN1 5NX. Tel: 01793 534238 Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. Tel: 07340 758497 St Michael’s Hall Lechlade Road, Highworth, SN6 7HQ. Tel: 01793 763907

Roves Farm, Sevenhampton, Nr Highworth SN6 7QG. Tel: 01793 763939 Shoebox Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN. Email: shoebox@wrongshoes.co.uk Swindon Information Centre, Central Library SN1 1QG. Tel: 01793 530328 Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road SN1 4BA. Tel: 01793 466556 The Victoria, 88 Victoria Road, SN1 3BD. Tel: 01793 535713 Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square SN1 1QN. Tel: 01793 524481 - www.swindontheatres.co.uk Confirm date, time & price with venue

l The next Wanborough Farmers' Market is on Saturday 17 March, from 9am to midday in Wanborough Village Hall. The usual stalls will be joined by the Wanborough Community Cafe which raises money for a local charity. l On Sunday 25 March local Tae Kwon Do group, North Wilts TKD, will be holding an open charity event to raise funds for Uplands School from 11.30am.

For further information contact northwiltstkd@gmail.com l Shaw Singers is looking for new members. The group meets on Tuesdays and is a drop-in singing session at Lower Shaw Farm from 3pm to 4.30pm.

Songs are taught by ear and word sheets are provided. £5 including tea and cake. l Bowie Experience is a breathtaking concert celebrating the music of the world's greatest pop icon, David Bowie, at Swindon's Wyvern Theatre March 10.

Bowie Experience continues to amaze audiences with an astounding attention to detail, bringing the golden years of David Bowie to theatres across the globe. So, put on your red shoes and Let's Dance! swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 23

23

08/10/2018 14:53

24

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 24

08/10/2018 14:53

Swindon Lives IN CONVERSATION WITH: Jago Hartman

By Ben Fitzgerald ben@swindonlink.com Jago Hartland is planning to cycle from Bristol to Paris - and what makes this feat of endurance more impressive is that the 20-year-old is redefining what can be achieved by someone with cystic fibrosis.

He will join 70 other people taking part in the challenge for the charity Above and Beyond to raise money for hospitals in Bristol where he has been treated. But unlike his fellow cyclists, Jago is the only one with CF. The hereditary condition, which affects the lungs, pancreas, liver, kidneys and intestine, affects breathing and leaves those with the condition having to endure frequent lung infections.

But Jago, who was diagnosed with CF at the age of 13, is refusing to let it hold him back.

“I like to keep myself fit, and that is also important for me as people with CF have to really take care of themselves. A lot of people take their health for granted but those with CF don’t have that luxury.”

To keep himself in shape, Jago exercises for at least a couple of hours each day, explaining that if he didn’t, his fitness levels would deteriorate faster than those without the condition. He also uses a nebuliser to breathe in enzymes to help break down the mucus that accumulates in his lungs.

“It’s a constant battle. I used to also suffer from stomach problems but I’ve

recently started eating a vegan diet and since then I’ve not had any problems.”

He explained that at school he had always struggled with his health, and was frequently off school as a result of his undiagnosed illness. His sister Millie also had CF and died at the age of eight before he was born. And two of his four other siblings also have CF. Jago’s mother Serena Stevens set up Oak and Furrows Wildlife Rescue Centre in her memory.

“When I got my diagnosis it all began to make sense - the school was really understanding and helped me through this.”

After leaving school Jago, who lives at the 10-acre Elemental sculpture park in Somerford Keynes founded by his dad,

David Hartland, has found that he is best suited to working outdoors and has worked as a gardener, dog walker and house sitter. His love of the outdoors has led him on a number of travel experiences in Nepal where he plans to return in June, helping to market tours for an independent travel company.

In addition, Jago does a lot of work helping to raise awareness of his condition and to help support others with CF that they don’t need to be defined by their illness.

“One of my favourite CF sayings is ‘a life unlimited’ and that’s something that I try to live by. When I was 16, I decided to set myself a challenge of raising £1000 a year for different charities.”

His fundraising exploits have led him to run the Great South Run for the Starlight Foundation and to fund an orphanage by taking part in the World Challenge Expedition in Cambodia and Vietnam.

He has also taken part in the three peaks challenge to raise funds for the Cystic Foundation Trust.

He admitted that his plans to be the first person with CF to conquer Mount Everest were scuppered last year when someone else with the condition achieved this first but now has his sights set on becoming the first person with CF to trek to the North Pole.

To sponsor Jago visit his webpage at https://b2p2018.everydayhero.com/uk/ jago swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 25

25

08/10/2018 14:53

Advertising Feature

Have a cracking time at the Brunel over Easter

Entertain the children at the Brunel Shopping Centre over the Easter Holidays.

The team at the Brunel Shopping Centre know only too well what a challenge it can be to entertain the youngsters so they have put together a free programme of activities.

On Friday 30 March and Saturday 31 March, the Easter Bunny will be hopping into the centre to meet the children and to give out free chocolate eggs. You can catch up with him between 11am and 3pm on the upper level of The Brunel Plaza, between Marks & Spencer and Boots.

Sunday 8 April sees the start of the week-long Swindon Fringe Festival at the centre.

There will be music and theatre

26

performances, workshops for children to learn magic, juggling, music and drama plus arts and craft activities, musical performances and storytelling.

And to stop the tummies' rumbling, the centre’s food hub, The Crossing, is now open and serving a range of meals and snacks to cater for all tastes.

A visit to the new Desserts and More parlour is a great treat for all the family, and is already making headlines with their ice cream kebab!

And to finally wear them down, you can pay a visit to Kiddin' Around, the great new indoor soft play centre (charges apply). It’s open between 9.30am and 6pm Mon – Sat and 10.30am to 4.30pm on Sundays.

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 26

08/10/2018 14:53

39

SERVICE SECTOR

39

ACCOUNTANCY & BOOKKEEPING, AERIALS, BUILDING SERVICES, CLEANING, ELECTRICAL

BOOK-KEEPING Can’t face doing the books after a hard day’s work?

Call Leonard Fuller, A.I.C.B, qualified bookkeeper with over 20 years’ experience.

Tel: 01793 700637 or 07963 637748 www.bookkeepingswindon.co.uk

Chris Payne

M. Newman

aerials & satellite systems

Extension & Garage Conversion Specialists

O N

Phone: 07502 442726 or 01793 734379

VA T

✭ Freeview & Sky installations ✭ TV & radio aerials ✭ Home cinema ✭ Extra TV & telephone points

Abacus Cleaning Services

• Alterations/Renovations • New Builds and Barn Conversions Fully insured. 18 years experience Call Neil now for a free, competitive quote on

0800 1357063 or 07967 155502 or email: info@benchmarkconstructionswindon.co.uk benchmarkconstructionswindon.co.uk

• • • • • •

Doors hung Skirting & architrave Laminate flooring Fitted wardrobes Traditional fencing Garden waste removed No job too small Free quotations given

Call Mark: 01793 881336 or 07526 345636

DECORATOR

Carpets, Rugs and Fabric Upholstery

Chrome sockets and switches

Hard Floors Cleaned & Sealed Carpet & Upholstery Protection Treatments Insecticide & Anti-Static Treatments Spot & Stain Removal

Home extensions/rewires Replacement fuse boards Kitchen & bathroom electrics Data cabling/office conversions Garage/garden power Decorative lights

Fully Insured, NCCA member

Fault finding/repairs Free help and advice

Independently owned & operated

Call 07976 885203 or 01793 721455

To arrange for a free estimate call

01793 421802

Fully insured to £2m

Call Dan: 07791 791513 Email: dan@boylectrical.co.uk Visit: www.boylectrical.co.uk

www.trevorwyse.com

www.abacuscleaningservices.co.uk

Approved Electrician Approved Electrician Part P Registered Part P Registered

Certified Electrician NICEIC Domestic Installers (D606759)

Reliable Local Company • Re-Wires, Alterations & Additions • Inspections, Testing & Certificates • Consumer Units Replaced • LED Lighting Installations • Emergency Lighting • Fix Wire Testing

01793 877677 office@enlan.co.uk www.enlan.co.uk

S March Master pages.indd 27

Carpentry & Fencing Services

• Extra Sockets/lights Extra Sockets/lights • • Fuse Board Upgrade • Fuse Board Upgrade

• • Testing andInspection Inspection Testing and Complete Rewires • • Complete Rewires No job too small!

• • No job too small!

Connected Connected Electrical Electrical && Property Services Property Services Call Geoff : 07824 314080 or Tel: 07824 314080 or 01793 703308 01793 703308 Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

Email: connectedelectrical01@gmail.com

Do better business!

Promote what you do on paper and online @swindonlink.com Call

01793 781502

to discuss our combined swindonlink.com n March 2018 27 advertising packages 08/10/2018

14:53

SERVICE SECTOR SERVICE SECTOR

GARAGE DOORS, KITCHENS, PLANS DRAWN, PLUMBING, SAND & GRAVEL GARAGE DOORS, KITCHENS, PLANS DRAWN, PLUMBING, REMOVALS, REMOVALS, SHEDS & GARDEN BUILDINGS

Electrical Automation • Up & Over • Roller • Sectional • Repairs • Unit 8, Central Trading Estate Signal Way, Swindon SN3 1PD

Tel 01793 940096 Email enquiries@dimensions.org.uk www.dimensions.org.uk

Fitted Kitchens Bathrooms & Bedrooms Tiling & Worktops Laminate Flooring Skirtings & Architraves Dados & Coving Doors & Decking And much more

For a FREE no obligation quote call now on 07874 021004 or 01793 701797

PLANS DRAWN Loft conversion & extension specialist. Complete house design and commercial work undertaken.

From initial concept to full working drawings my service includes: • written specifications; • contractor tender documents; • all forms and paperwork carried out; • liaison with relevant authorities; • Party Wall Act paperwork and advice given.

7 DAY DESIGN SERVICE for most domestic work Established 1980. All areas covered

Call Bob on 07778 324228

WHITE VAN MAN SINGLE ITEMS MOVED ANYWHERE IN SWINDON FOR ONLY £35 • Full house removal • House clearance • Disposal of unwanted items • Any distance long/short • Fully insured NEW: Licensed to remove fridges

Call for a FREE quote Mobile: 07796 236436 28

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 28

08/10/2018 14:53

SERVICE SECTOR SECTOR SERVICE

27

SAND & GRAVEL, TOOL & PLANT HIRE, TREE SURGERY, UPHOLSTERY, WARDROBES, WASTE REMOVAL

David Hawkins

Tree Surgeon ALL TYPES OF TREE WORK COMPLETED TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD

Stump removal

Hedge Cutting • Tree Planting Fruit Tree Pruning Fully insured Free estimates 25 years experience

01793 976084 07967 594707 david.hawkins100@hotmail.co.uk

M & J Upholsterers RE-UPHOLSTERY & ALL SUITE REPAIRS Re-upholstery of 3 piece suites, dining & fireside chairs etc.

Also new seat interiors Seams - Zips - Springs

LEATHER CLEANING Repairs carried out in situ Established 1972

Call 07709 453949 emanjayupholstery@gmail.com

Affordable luxury fitted wardrobes, measured, manufactured and fitted from only £495 Made to measure, floor to ceiling, a wide range of traditional and modern designs in various finishes For a free brochure and no obligation quote Call 01793 827188 www.mryprojects.co.uk

Do better business!

Promote what you do on paper and online @swindonlink.com Call 01793 781502 to discuss our combined advertising packages or email advertising@swindonlink.com for more information swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 29

29

08/10/2018 14:53

Talking politics South Swindon MP Robert Buckland (Con) One of my main priorities as your local MP and a local parent is to ensure that all children and young people in Swindon receive a highquality education. I am passionate about making sure that young people have the opportunity to fulfil their potential regardless of background, so I welcomed the recent figures released by the Higher Education Statistics Agency which show the proportion of 18-year olds from disadvantaged areas applying for University has risen to record levels.

Nine in 10 young entrants to full-time first degrees in 2016/17 went to state school, the highest level recorded.

Many universities are making a

big effort to make higher education more accessible, but there is still more work to be done, which is why the government has introduced major reforms through the Higher Education and Research Act to create more competition and choice that will promote social mobility.

I am pleased that housebuilding in Swindon has received a recent welcome boost after it was announced that the Government has awarded our town £11.5m from the Housing Infrastructure fund to speed up building in two major development areas.

The New Eastern Villages (NEW)

Swindon Borough Council Leader Cllr David Renard (Con) You may have heard by now that Swindon is taking part in the Government voter identification pilot at this year’s local elections. This year, residents will be required to show their poll card or another form of ID to be able to vote. This pilot is an important step in making sure that our democracy is protected and brought in line with the standard ID requirements of the 21st century.

The requirement to show ID is there to protect you, make sure you get what you asked for and prevent fraud.

Voting is no different, and in many ways is far more important. Voting influences the lives of you and your family on a daily basis, and as we saw in the EU referendum, can be decided by small margins. It only makes sense that we provide ID at the polling station in order to make sure everyone’s vote is accurate.

This pilot will also have the added benefit that your voting experience will be much faster if you use your poll card as ID. Each poll card will contain a unique barcode that will take a matter of moments to scan compared to a poll clerk having to look up your name in a long list. If you have elderly relatives who vote please help them remember their poll card and let your friends know if you think they may not have seen the messages, especially if you know anyone voting for the first time.

You will be getting a letter this month asking you to register to vote and decide your voting method. This letter will let everyone know about the pilot. Poll cards will then be sent to all registered voters in April so make sure you keep them safe for 3 May. For more information you can visit www. swindon.gov.uk/VoterID

30

will receive £5m, which will be used to build a new link under the Great Western Railway line, providing a direct route into the proposed Rowborough development from the A420.

The link will provide essential access to Rowborough, which is part of the New Eastern Villages.

Around 2,380 new homes will be built on a site to the north of the A420.

An additional £6.5m has been awarded to the Kingsdown Bridge project, which will allow a further 1,650 homes to be built.

I am extremely supportive of more housebuilding in Swindon

North Swindon MP Justin Tomlinson (Con) Three years ago the Government introduced a new special educational needs and disability (SEND) system in England in order to do more to meet the needs of autistic children and young people.

Since then we have delivered new stand-alone and mainstream education places for children with Autism, ASCs and SEND, and importantly, we have increased high-needs funding for local authorities. Last year there was an additional £92.5m worth of funding and this year we are providing an additional £130m. As somebody who has campaigned for increased funding, and as the former Minister for Disabled People, I am really pleased to see more support going to those on the autistic spectrum. To further ensure this issue remains a priority, I have lent my support to the National Autistic Society and Ambitious About Autism campaign to introduce a national autism and educational strategy.

Elsewhere, one of the big issues that I have campaigned relentlessly on since I became the North Swindon MP in 2010, is to ban the third party sale of puppies and end puppy smuggling.

A ban would mean anyone looking to buy or adopt a dog will either deal directly with the breeder or with one of the nation’s many animal rehousing centres. This will stop unscrupulous traders from selling puppies to make as much profit as possible with no regard for the health and welfare of the animal.

With all this in mind, I was delighted when the Government set out measures last week to clamp down on unscrupulous puppy breeders and ensure the welfare of animals. These include banning the sale of puppies under 8 weeks old and stopping the breeding of dogs with serious genetic disorder; as well as a requirement for sales to be completed in the presence of the owner and the introduction of compulsory licencing for breeders.

in accordance with our Local Plan and I am pleased that the government has awarded £11.5m directly to Swindon from the Housing Infrastructure Fund.

I am delighted that The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) have announced that they will open a hub in the redeveloped Carriage Works.

The UWTSD hub will be a focal point for post-graduate and professional development courses in cultural heritage and architecture. I strongly supported this initiative and met University of Wales senior representatives in order to help get it over the line.

The UWTSD hub will also offer a further way to help regenerate our heritage buildings both now and in the future.

Cllr Jim Grant, Swindon Labour Group Leader In the 3 May Local Elections, Swindon will be taking part in a national Voter ID pilot.

The pilot will require residents to bring their poll cards or another form of valid Photo ID with them to enable them to place their vote.

The decision to take part in this pilot is a completely political decision. It was an idea created by the Conservative Government and has been gleefully championed by the Conservative Party in Swindon and four other areas in the country that are Conservative controlled.

Swindon has no record of Voter Fraud, so there is no reason why this trial should be happening here.

Also the cost of this voter trial will be in tens of thousands that will have to be met by the taxpayer, a huge waste given the current cuts taking place to local services.

However Tory Councillors have forced this trial to happen and I want everyone to do all we can to make sure people aren’t disenfranchised as a result of these new voting requirements. The fact is, unlike before, if people lose or do not bring their poll card or a form of valid Photo ID they will not be able to vote.

Forms of Photo ID that will be accepted by the council to allow you to vote on the day include: Passport (UK, EU, Commonwealth), Photocard driving licence, Biometric Immigration Document or EEA Identity Card Having said that if the voter turnout does reduce and we find people being turned away from the polling station as a result of the Tories’ political decision, I think the Leader of the Council would need to consider his position.

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 30

08/10/2018 14:53

swindonlink.com n March 2018

S March Master pages.indd 31

31

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 32

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 33

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 34

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 35

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 36

08/10/2018 14:53

S March Master pages.indd 37

08/10/2018 14:53