On the cover: Ruby - a golden heart in action
Meet Ruby, the golden retriever with a golden heart, pictured on the cover bringing joy to a little girl during a Rhyme Time session at Newbury Library.
Ruby is a Pets As Therapy (PAT) dog - one of over 4,300 volunteers across the UK who visit schools, hospitals, care homes and workplaces to offer comfort and companionship.
But Ruby’s story is especially close to home. Her journey began at West Berkshire Council, where her owner Julie works. During the pandemic, Ruby became a regular in the office, even earning her own ID badge as ‘Head of Staff Welfare’.
Ruby’s inspiration came from Pearl, Julie’s first golden retriever, who saved her life in 2010 by alerting her children during a medical emergency.
Ruby joined the family in 2020 and quickly showed she had the same gentle spirit and strong character. From ferry rides and lockdown office days to agility training and therapy assessments, Ruby has embraced every challenge with tail-wagging enthusiasm. Her visits continue to brighten lives across West Berkshire.
Pets As Therapy relies on donations and fundraising to continue its vital work. To support or get involved, visit www.petsastherapy.org.
Welcome to the latest edition of Your West Berkshire magazine
West Berkshire is a place we’re proud to call home, and it’s the people, communities and shared values that make it so special.
Here, we believe that every child deserves the strongest foundation for a happy and healthy future. That’s why the government has launched a new strategy called ‘Giving Every Child the Best Start in Life,‘ aimed at enhancing early years support by integrating health, education, and social care services. Central to this approach are Best Start Family Hubs - welcoming spaces where families can easily access the help they need, all under one roof.
From April 2026, West Berkshire will receive new funding to expand our Family Hubs. This means we’ll be able to offer even more support to families across the district, building on the great work our hubs already do.
We also support children’s development through targeted programmes like A Flying Start and Reading Together, and work closely with our nurseries and schools to ensure every child is ready to learn and grow.
We’re very proud that nearly 75% of children in West Berkshire reach a good level of development, 4% above the national average. This reflects our joinedup approach, from speech and language support to SEND engagement and smooth transitions into school.
With 95% of schools rated Good or Outstanding by Ofsted, and exam results consistently above national
averages, we’re also proud of our strong partnerships that drive both excellence and raised aspirations.
As a Council, we work every day to nurture that sense of belonging - delivering services that matter, investing in our future and helping residents of all ages thrive.
In this edition of Your West Berkshire, we shine a light on some of the services shaping our district, including:
• Changing lives by adapting homes through the Disabled Funding Grant
• Expanding sporting opportunities across the district
• Supporting fair play through Planning Enforcement
• Making cycling easier with new Linkway signs
Whether you’re reading to stay informed, get involved, or learn more about your West Berkshire, I hope you find something that resonates.
Please do share your feedback and stay connected with us through our digital channels and community events.
Councillor Heather Codling West Berkshire Council’s Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Children and Family Services
How home adaptations are changing lives
What do independence and wellbeing mean to you? For nine-year-old Marley in Hungerford, it means having a bedroom she can call her own. For her mum, Nicki, it’s the comfort of knowing her daughter can access a shower safely and easily. For hundreds of people across West Berkshire, it’s the quiet joy of living independently, made possible by simple but life-changing home adaptations.
At West Berkshire Council, we see independence and wellbeing as essentials, not luxuries. With support from the Government’s Disabled Facilities Grant, we’re helping people live safer, fuller lives in the homes they love.
Last year, over 140 homes in West Berkshire were adapted to support elderly residents, disabled children and adults with physical challenges. These changes, from stair lifts and wet rooms to kitchen updates and secure entry systems, are more than practical - they truly change lives.
Investing in independence
“The new rooms are my pride and joy,” says Nicki.
“Before, getting Marley to the bathroom was a struggle - it was all hoists, stairlifts, discomfort. Our son had to share a room with us, which was tough. Now, he has his own space, we have ours, and Marley loves her new room. It’s changed everything.”
We’re proud to provide home adaptations, and they are costeffective as well. By helping people stay safe at home, we reduce the need for costly residential care and ongoing support:
• A £30,000 bedroom adaptation for a disabled child enables them to live safely and comfortably at home with their family - potentially avoiding a £300,000 annual residential care placement
• Installing ground-floor facilities for an adult with physical disabilities, at under £30,000, supports independent living at home - while reducing the need for £12,000–£13,000 in annual care costs
• A £12,000–£15,000 accessible bathroom for an elderly adult restores privacy and dignity and can eliminate the need for daily personal care - delivering both emotional and financial benefits
In total, £1.3 million was invested in home adaptations last year. This funding came from the Better Care Fund, which supports integrated health and care services across the region.
Our Customer Satisfaction Surveys reveal the true impact of these adaptations - not just in numbers, but in stories of restored mobility, confidence and peace of mind.
As we continue to invest in home adaptations, we remain focused on what matters most: people. Every ramp, every lift, every widened doorway is a step toward a more inclusive, compassionate community - where everyone has the chance to live well, at home.
West Berks Foodbank –supporting families all year round
The phrase ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ often evokes images of abundance, overflowing tables and generous gifts. But for many families in West Berkshire, the festive season brings financial strain and difficult choices.
West Berks Foodbank remains a lifeline for families facing hardship, not just at Christmas but throughout the year.
This summer, their Hungry Holidays initiative provided 20 tonnes of food and essentials to over 1,100 children across 46 schools. Supplies were discreetly distributed to those families most in need and those just outside traditional support thresholds – working parents struggling with rising rents, mortgages and utility bills.
The need is growing. Last year alone, the Foodbank distributed over 145.5 tonnes of food, toiletries, cleaning products and baby essentials. Many families hesitate to ask for help, believing they’re not eligible, or feeling uncomfortable approaching the Foodbank.
But the reality is stark. Some parents skip meals so their children can eat; others lock away food to ration it across the week.
As winter approaches, the Foodbank’s Twelve Days of Christmas bags offer festive staples like stuffing and cranberry sauce, alongside supermarket vouchers funded by the Council to help families buy fresh food. These thoughtful packages bring dignity and joy to households that might otherwise go without.
“We know families who keep food locked away from their children just to make sure there’s enough for the week,” said Fran Chamings, Manager at West Berkshire Foodbank.
“Without financial support, we simply couldn’t run these essential initiatives. The need is real, and it’s growing.”
For 2025/26, West Berkshire Council has provided a total of £125,000 to the Foodbank via the Government’s Household Support Fund, helping sustain this vital work.
But there’s more to be done. Donations have dropped by 50%, even as demand rises.
Councillor Denise Gaines, Executive Member for Planning and Housing at West Berkshire Council, said, “West Berkshire Foodbank continues to be a cornerstone of support for families in crisis. Their work is compassionate, discreet and absolutely vital. We urge residents not to suffer in silence – help is available, and the Foodbank is here for you. If you’re in a position to give, please consider donating via the Greenham Trust’s Good Exchange platform. Your support will be matched and will go directly to helping those who need it most.”
“Without the financial support we receive, it is impossible to keep the vital initiatives running. With continued help, we can reach even more people. The need is very much real, but so is the possibility for change.”
The Foodbank’s Chair of Trustees, Olivia Greenway
Residents can help by contributing via the Greenham Trust’s Good Exchange platform which matches donations and is open until 2026. https://app.thegoodexchange.com/ applicants/1229/west-berks-foodbank
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Celebrating partnerships that create sporting opportunities
Community sport in West Berkshire is thriving thanks to a strong partnership between local VCSE (Voluntary, Community and Social Enterprise) organisations and West Berkshire Council.
Central to this success is the VCSE Sports Voice - a vibrant forum linking grassroots sport and physical activity providers with council representatives. It’s become a catalyst for change, sparking meaningful dialogue, tackling challenges and unlocking new opportunities for residents.
This collaboration has already delivered tangible results:
• Netball Stars raised concerns about poor surfaces at Kennet and underused courts at Henwick. The council secured funding to resurface both, restoring vital community assets
• Local parkrun teams collaborated with council officers to launch a second event venue in Victoria Park, Newbury, supported by start-up costs and equipment, thereby broadening access to inclusive activity
• Cycling clubs (Newbury Road Club, Newbury Velo and West Berkshire Spokes) received help to stage a Festival of Cycling, celebrating 100 years of Newbury Road Club and engaging the wider community
Annual Electoral Canvass
Rachel Peters, CEO of Volunteer Centre West Berkshire and facilitator of the Sports Voice forum, said:
“This collaboration is more than a success story, it’s a blueprint for community-led progress, showing a united commitment to health, well-being and social connection through sport.
“These achievements prove what’s possible when passion meets partnership. Together, we’re removing barriers and championing participation like never before. The council isn’t just solving problems, it’s creating lasting opportunities that will enrich lives for years to come.”
Our annual electoral canvass is underway, so you may receive an email from us asking if your household’s details on the electoral register are correct.
In the past, we’ve seen posts saying that this request is a scam. It’s good to be on your guard, but this is not a scam and it’s important that your details are up to date so that you’re able to vote.
Let’s Talk!
Friendly face-to-face support
Finding the right council service can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why we host regular Let’s Talk drop-in sessions across West Berkshire, so you can speak to someone in person and get the help you need.
These informal, welcoming sessions are all about making services more accessible and personal. No appointments, no forms - just friendly conversations.
Whether you need support with benefits, housing, forms, technology, or just want to know what help is available, our team is here to listen and guide you.
Council staff are often joined by other local organisations, offering even more support in one place.
Got a question or concern? Just drop by and have a chat.
Find your nearest session: www.westberks.gov.uk/lets-talk
Creating Safe Places
We’re proud to be working alongside Thames Valley Police and Newbury BID to help make West Berkshire a more supportive and secure place for everyone, through the Safe Places scheme.
The Safe Places National Network is a UK-wide initiative designed to give people greater confidence when out and about. Locations such as libraries, leisure centres and family hubs have joined the scheme and will display a Safe Places sticker in their window.
If someone feels overwhelmed, unsafe, or simply needs help, whether it’s calling a friend, arranging a lift, or speaking to emergency services - these venues offer a calm space and a friendly face.
Staff members have been trained to provide reassurance and can quickly contact a trusted person or emergency assistance if required.
There’s also a free mobile app to easily find your nearest Safe Place whenever you need it. The Safe Place App can be downloaded from both the App Store and Google Play.
The App has a ‘Get me to my nearest Safe Place’ button which immediately directs you to the nearest open Safe Place. If no Safe Place is located within a 15 minute walk it will automatically offer to call the Police on their non-emergency 101 number to get help over the phone.
If your organisation would like to become a Safe Place, please get in touch by emailing: safeplaces@westberks.gov.uk or calling Rhys Lewis on 01635 551111.
For more information or to download the app visit: www.westberks.gov.uk/safe-places-scheme
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Top tips for 3-weekly bin collections
We’ve begun the move to 3-weekly black bin collections. Although it’s still early days, we recognise that changes to waste collection routines can feel disruptive. That’s why we want to reassure you that we made this decision with care and a long-term vision for a cleaner, greener West Berkshire.
Recycling collections continue fortnightly and food waste collections remain weekly.
The change is part of our commitment to a more sustainable future. By recycling more and reducing general waste, we can protect vital services, support the environment and work towards our goal of recycling 60% of household waste by 2030.
Here are some top tips for 3-weekly bin collections
1. Maximise recycling
• Use your recycling containers to their full potential
• Rinse containers before recycling to avoid smells and pests
2. Use your weekly food waste collections
• Line your food caddy with compostable liners to keep it clean
3. Reduce waste
• Choose products with less packaging
• Repair, reuse and donate items instead of throwing them away
4. Keep your bin clean and secure
• Bag all general waste to prevent spills and odours
• Keep the lid closed
5. Know your collection dates
• Use our online calendar to know your bin day: www.westberks.gov.uk/binday
• Set reminders to avoid missed collections
6. Ask for help if needed
• If you have medical or other needs that generate extra waste, check if you qualify for additional support online
Learn more and access support at www.westberks.gov.uk/3-weekly-collections.
Together, we can build a cleaner, greener West Berkshire, one small change at a time.
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Giving every child the best start in life in West Berkshire
We believe every child deserves the best possible start, and we’re proud to be investing in their future.
Since September 2025, working families with children aged nine months to school age have been able to access up to 30 hours of funded childcare per week for 38 weeks a year.
This major expansion is supported by a £10 million boost to our Early Years Department for Education funding, which will help families to access places at our growing network of high-quality, inclusive childcare settings across the district.
Zoe, a new childminder from Lambourn, launched her business with support from our Early Years team and has already seen the shift in demand that has filled all her places. She says:
“Many families were looking specifically for funded spaces rather than private nanny care. I wanted to be part of meeting the needs of local families.
“The response from families has been overwhelming. Becoming a childminder has been one of the best decisions I’ve made, for my family and the families I work with.”
Hayley, a parent of a child Zoe cares for, says the new entitlements have transformed her family life, saying:
“We are extremely grateful for the government-funded hours. It’s amazing not to have the stress of high childcare costs, and our daughter is thriving.
“Now, when I have my daughter in my spare time, we can do nice things together like soft play and swimming.”
Zoe and Hayley
Councillor Heather Codling, Deputy Leader of West Berkshire Council and Executive Member for Children and Family Services, added:
“This isn’t just about childcare - it’s about opportunity. Early education helps children build vital skills, confidence and curiosity, while giving parents more flexibility to work, study or train.
“The first 1001 days of a child’s life are crucial for lifelong development. With nearly 10,000 children under the age of five in West Berkshire, we’re committed to building a stronger, fairer community, starting with our youngest residents.”
Find out how to apply for childcare funding here.
If you’re interested in becoming a childminder, email earlyyearservice@westberks.co.uk
“The response from families has been overwhelming. Becoming a childminder has been one of the best decisions I’ve made, for my family and the families I work with.”
Active West Berkshire
Summer highlights and what’s ahead
We’ve had a busy summer working with our leisure partner, Everyone Active, to deliver a wide range of health and wellbeing activities across West Berkshire. Here’s a look at what’s been happening, and what’s coming up this autumn and winter.
Northcroft Family Fun Day welcomes Team GB star
Over 2,000 people joined the celebrations at Northcroft Leisure Centre on 5 July, marking the centre’s refurbishment with a free Family Fun Day.
Special guest Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, Team GB sprinter and TV personality, made an appearance, while visitors enjoyed lido swims, group cycling, studio tours, pickleball, badminton, soft play, fencing demos and table tennis.
New SEND Soft Play Sessions
Everyone Active now offers dedicated soft play sessions for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), providing a quieter, safer and more inclusive environment. Sessions run at Northcroft Leisure Centre on Mondays at 5-6.30pm, Wednesdays at 1.30-3pm and Saturdays at 3-4.30pm.
New 3G pitch for Cotswold
July also marked an exciting moment for local sport as the brand-new 3G pitch at Cotswold Sports Centre in Tilehurst officially opened - and what a way to kick things off! Tilehurst Panthers Girls FC had the honour of being the first team to take to the turf, setting the tone for a future full of energy, teamwork and community spirit.
Funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the project is already proving to be a game-changer for local sports teams, clubs, schools and community groups. With its high-quality surface and all-weather accessibility, the pitch is set to support grassroots sport and active lifestyles for years to come.
Pickleball takes off in Newbury
Northcroft hosted its first pickleball tournament, with 22 players across 11 teams. Since launching sessions in July 2024, over 1,500 people have taken part, and the centre now runs six sessions per week.
More than 75 regular players of all ages are now enjoying this fast-growing sport.
New ‘Escape Pain’ exercise course
Residents living with chronic joint pain and osteoarthritis can now receive support through a new ‘Escape Pain’ programme focused on safe and effective exercise. Northcroft Leisure Centre has launched the six-week education and exercise programme for those over the age of 45 who have been living with persistent knee, hip or back pain for more than three months.
The course supplements a part of the centre’s exercise referral scheme and aims to support people with mobility issues to move more and learn how to manage symptoms through lifestyle changes.
Email stephirfan@everyoneactive.com or call 01635 31199 to find out more.
Kennet Courts get a winning makeover
A major revamp of the sports courts at Kennet Leisure Centre in Thatcham is well underway. Thanks to joint funding from Kennet School, Everyone Active and West Berkshire Council via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, six courts are getting a much-needed facelift that will benefit both tennis and netball players.
Find your local leisure centre
We manage seven leisure centres across the district with Everyone Active.
Find your nearest centre and kickstart your membership today:
www.everyoneactive.com/centre or scan the QR code.
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Mentors making a difference – more recovery support at Via West Berkshire
Via West Berkshire is celebrating the graduation of seven new peer mentors, people who’ve completed accredited Level 2 Peer Mentor training and are now ready to support others on their recovery journey.
These mentors have lived experience of alcohol and drug recovery. They offer empathy, encouragement and practical advice, showing others that recovery is possible and worth believing in.
Mentoring matters
Mentoring can be a game-changer. Having someone who’s been through it makes a real difference. Peer mentors bring hope, motivation and a listening ear without judgment.
Peer support helps bridge the gap between treatment and everyday life, making people feel heard and inspired to make lasting changes. It’s also a two-way street - mentors often gain confidence and personal growth by giving back.
One newly qualified mentor said: “I wanted to ‘give back’ and help others with their own issues and challenges. Through the sessions, I’ve met some great people and have been personally touched by their own paths to success.”
Need support?
If you or someone you care about is struggling with alcohol or drug use, Via West Berkshire offers free, confidential support.
Phone: 0300 303 4554
Email: west.berkshire@viaorg.uk
Visit: 1 Station Road, Newbury, RG14 7LP
Online: viaorg.uk
Flooding may seem like a modern problem, but the solutions lie deep in the past – literally.
Across West Berkshire, our Transport, Countryside and Environment team is working hard to stay ahead of the unpredictable effects of climate change, especially the increasing episodes of heavy rainfall and rising groundwater levels.
To better understand and manage flood risks, the team uses advanced mapping tools and technology to model how water moves through the landscape. But they also take a step back –way back – to learn from the geological history beneath our feet.
Around 100 million years ago, during the Upper Cretaceous Period, much of Britain was under a warm sea, forming the chalk layers we now rely on to absorb surface water. Fast forward to the last Ice Age, and that chalk was buried under a kilometre-thick ice sheet.
Today, it forms a porous aquifer that helps manage water flow in rural areas without piped drainage systems.
In Upper Basildon, for example, one community relies on a borehole that reaches deep into the chalk to drain excess water.
When it became blocked, flooding followed. But thanks to a coordinated effort between our teams and specialist contractors, the borehole was recently re-cored to a depth of 21 metres –revealing ancient flint and chalk that hadn’t seen daylight for 1200 years. The result? The soakaway cleared, and the flooding subsided.
This is just one example of how we are moving to proactive maintenance. With essential new funding, our team now manages over 17,000 drainage assets through regular maintenance schedules, and dedicated project engineers are assigned to specific areas.
Digging deep
Tackling flooding with science, history and teamwork
“With essential new funding, our team now manages over 17,000 drainage assets through regular maintenance schedules, and dedicated project engineers are assigned to specific areas.”
Quiet?
Not quite West Berkshire libraries are buzzing!
Forget everything you thought you knew about libraries. West Berkshire’s libraries are dynamic community hubs - places where curiosity meets creativity, and where quiet corners coexist with laughter, learning and lively conversation.
Our library spaces are buzzing with creativity, connection and community spirit. Yes, we’ve got books - but we’ve also got board games, digital support, art clubs, wellbeing resources and so much more.
Here’s a glimpse into the brilliant, bustling world of our library spaces. Prepare to be surprised…
Did you know…
we offer digital support and IT help?
Whether you’re baffled by your smartphone or need help navigating online forms, our libraries have your back. You can:
• Drop in for help with the library or eLibrary apps from friendly staff at any library
• Book one-to-one sessions (30 or 60 minutes) with our digital services officer
• Join affordable digital skills courses at Newbury Library (10 sessions for just £35!)
we support your health and wellbeing?
Your local library is a wellness ally. We offer:
• Wellbeing Bags to borrow, packed with helpful resources
• Recommended Reads for mental health, curated by professionals
• Seated exercise classes to stay active and social
• All Yours: free period products, no questions asked
we offer free Wi-Fi and computer access?
Whether you’re job-hunting, studying, or just checking your emails, our libraries provide free internet and computer use for everyone - including visitors.
we’re a treasure trove of local history?
Dive into the past with:
• Access to archives, maps and ancestry databases
• Expert help with family history research
• Fascinating local stories waiting to be uncovered
we loan board games and puzzles?
Books are just the beginning! You can also borrow:
• Board games for all ages
• Jigsaw puzzles to challenge your brain and relax your mind
• BBC micro:bits (pocket size coding tech)
we help you recycle?
A small act with a big impact! Some of our libraries are drop-off points for:
• Used Batteries
• Bras
• Spectacles
we’re autism and dementia-friendly?
We’re proud to offer inclusive spaces and activities:
• Quiet Hour at Newbury Library for a calm sensory-friendly experience
• Reminiscence Collection: nearly 40 themed memoryboxes available to borrow - perfect for care homes, families, and community groups
you can volunteer and make a real impact?
Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our libraries. From shelving books to helping with crafts, rhymetimes and events, there’s a role for everyone. It’s a great way to give back, meet people and be part of something meaningful.
we’re social spaces too?
Libraries are places to connect. Join us at:
• Ageing Creatively Community Café at Theale Library
• Educafe at Newbury Library - a warm welcome, great coffee and friendly faces
• Weekly clubs for children
Why wait?
West Berkshire’s libraries are vibrant, welcoming and full of surprises. Whether you’re five or 95, there’s something here for you. Come for the books - stay for the community, creativity and connection.
Find out all about libraries at www.westberks.gov.uk/libraries
Cycle your way with Linkways
Our new cycle signs between Newbury and Thatcham now show average journey times to key destinations like the Nature Discovery Centre. Featuring our local Linkways branding, they make cycling easier and more appealing for short trips, helping us all stay active and support the environment.
Be snuggle smartkeep cosy and safe
As the chill sets in, hot water bottles become a winter favourite, but they need to be used with care.
Top tips for safe snuggling:
• Use a cover to protect your skin
• Fill with hot tap water, not boiling
• Only fill two-thirds full and squeeze out air
• Store in a cool, dry spot
• Replace every two-three years or if worn
Check the date wheel near the neck or base to see when yours was made. If it’s looking tired or you’re unsure, it’s time for a new one!
Getting ready: flood preparedness in West Berkshire
After a long, dry summer, autumn’s rain has finally arrived. After a long, dry summer, autumn rain has finally arrived. It’s good news for gardens and reservoirs, but it also brings a higher risk of surface water flooding.
At the same time, rivers and groundwater levels may also become a concern as the season progresses.
So, how likely is flooding this winter? Sadly, no one, not even the Met Office or Environment Agency, can predict the exact risk this far ahead. However, we do know that as autumn turns to winter, the chances of flooding typically increase. That’s why now is the perfect time to get prepared.
Here are a few simple steps you can take:
• Check if your home is at risk of flooding
• Sign up for the Environment Agency’s flood warning service
• Connect with your local flood warden, or consider becoming one yourself
• Take steps to protect your property if you’re in a flood-prone area
• Make a plan for your family in case flooding does occur
Want to know more? Visit our website and search ‘Flooding’ for practical advice and resources to help you prepare.
Grant funding now open for rural businesses
Are you a rural business looking to diversify, grow, or adopt sustainable practices? Grant funding is now available through the 2025–26 Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) Business Grant scheme.
Launched at our recent Rural Business Forum at Shaw House, which brings together farmers, landowners, small to medium-sized enterprises and rural business owners for a day of panel discussions, practical workshops and networking with experts, the new scheme offers six fixed grants of up to £20,000 each. This funding is designed to help rural businesses scale up, innovate and improve local infrastructure.
Since December 2023, over £297,000 has been awarded to eleven local businesses, supporting projects ranging from sustainable farming to creative workspaces.
Could your business benefit? Applications are now open, with all projects to be delivered by March 2026.
For more information or to apply, email: economicdevelopment@ westberks.gov.uk or visit the Council’s REPF Grant Scheme webpage.
Ever wondered who makes sure planning rules are followed across the district?
That’s the job of our Planning Enforcement Team, led by Fenella and Adrian, your local Planning Enforcement Officers.
Each month, they investigate around sixty new reports of suspected breaches.
These range from unauthorised building works, to changes in land or building use. Some cases are straightforward; others take time to untangle.
Not every report turns out to be a breach; in fact, only about half actually involve a breach, and even then, it’s not a criminal offence. Most of the time, these things can be sorted out through negotiation, just as the government recommends.
That said, the council doesn’t turn a blind eye to deliberate breaches. If someone’s knowingly ignoring the rules, we will take formal action. However, we often help people regularise things through planning applications or tweaks to their plans.
Fenella says: “The best part of my job is helping people understand the planning system - whether they’ve made changes without permission or are affected by those changes. We rely on residents to report issues, as we can’t be everywhere!”
How to report a breach
Use our online form to report suspected breaches. This ensures your concern is logged correctly and investigated. We prioritise cases based on impact, so thank you for your patience while we work through them.
Keeping to the rules: the team
behind planning enforcement
What we don’t investigate
• Land ownership or boundary disputes
• Party wall issues (covered by the Party Wall Act 1996)
• Dangerous structures (handled by Building Control)
• Noise, smells, or nuisance (managed by Environmental Health)
Thinking of building? Top tips
• Check if you need planning permission, even for small changes using the council’s online checking tool
• Extensions, outbuildings, or changes of use might need approval
• Unauthorised works can lead to enforcement, delays and extra costs
• Not sure? Just ask! It’s easier (and cheaper!) to get it right first time
Stay updated on local planning applications Want to keep track of planning applications in your area? Register through our public access system. Visit our planning webpages, click ‘Find and comment on a planning application’, and follow the links to sign up. Once registered, you’ll receive automatic updates and can submit your comments directly.
Powering up progress
Home charging your EV in West Berkshire
Around 40% of UK homes lack a driveway, making home electric vehicle (EV) charging tricky. But a new partnership between Kerbo Charge and West Berkshire Council is helping to change that.
Kerbo Charge offers an innovative solution. A flush pavement channel that allows residents to safely run a charging cable from their home to their EV parked on the street. It keeps pavements accessible and trip-free, great for both EV owners and pedestrians.
Clare from Kintbury is one of the early adopters
Karen from Newbury now charges her car from home.
“We’re really happy with our Kerbo Charge channel. It means we can now safely charge our EV from home.”
Why it matters
• Save money: Charging at home can save you around £25 per charge compared to public charging points
• Smart investment: With an installation cost of £999, most users save around £1,100 per year
• Eco-friendly and inclusive: Making EV ownership more accessible
Kerbo Charge is working with thirty councils across the UK, with thirteen more trials underway.
Ready to charge?
Check your postcode on the Kerbo Charge website to see if your street is eligible. If it is, book a home survey and start saving.
Visit www.westberks.gov.uk/ evguidance or scan the QR code.
Feathers and frost: winter birdwatching
Think winter isn’t great for birdwatching? While some birds fly south, winter is actually the perfect time for beginners to explore places like the Nature Discovery Centre and Thatcham Reedbeds.
Every winter, hundreds of thousands of ducks flock to the UK for food and milder weather. They fall into two groups: divers and dabblers.
Diving ducks, like the tufted duck, dive underwater for food. Tufted ducks are easy to spot. Males have striking black and white feathers and a funky head tuft, while females are browner with a smaller tuft. Another winter star is the pochard: males have a pale grey body, chestnut head, and red eyes; females are mostly grey-brown.
Dabbling ducks feed near the surface or tip up with their tails in the air. Mallards are the classic dabblers. Remember to feed them seeds or peas, not bread! Teal are small with a green eye patch, and shovelers use their big bills to filter food, often swimming in circles.
Want to learn more? Numerous bird song guides and handy apps are available. Or join a ‘Birds and a Brew’ event at the Nature Discovery Centre, run by the Berks, Bucks & Oxon Wildlife Trust (BBOWT). Each session features a different theme and is led by friendly experts to help you enhance your birding skills. Find out more and book at bbowt.org.uk/ events.
Photo: Guy Edwardes
Photo: Nick Upton
Photo
Located on the peaceful northern edge of Newbury, Shaw House is a beautifully restored Grade I listed Elizabethan mansion that continues to serve the community in meaningful ways.
Here, life’s milestones are marked with dignity and charm, including the registration of births, deaths, civil partnerships and weddings.
Since reopening to the public in 2006 following a major restoration by the Council, Shaw House has become a vibrant venue for conferences, events and West Berkshire’s Registration Service.
Couples travel from far and wide to marry at Shaw House, which offers three ceremony spaces: the intimate Register Office, the elegant Ceremony Room for up to 46 guests and the grand Great Hall - licensed for up to 100 guests with the option of a drink’s reception.
Adding to its charm is the newly opened Tudor Garden, a tranquil space designed by local horticulturist Andrea Fearon of Ivy Hill Garden Design. It’s a perfect spot for reflection and wedding photography.
Shaw House is open to the public on weekends between February and September, and every day during school holidays. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a day out, it’s a place where history and community come together.
Shaw House
Florian photography
Laura Greenham Photography
Building for success
Green growth - Falkland School’s eco-friendly expansion
Work is underway on a £4.4 million transformation at Falkland School in Newbury. Following summer preparation and a signed contract with Ascia Construction, the site is up and running.
By autumn 2026, doors will open to a brand-new, sustainable two-storey block, featuring eight modern classrooms, staff facilities and toilets, all built to sustainable BREEAM ‘Excellent’ standards with biodiversity in mind.
The school’s heating is also getting a green upgrade, by replacing the old gas boiler with a ground source heat pump to cut energy bills and support our net zero by 2030 goal.
In addition, drainage issues will be resolved, and there will be improvements to play areas, sports facilities and car parking, making the site more usable all year round.
Creating inclusive futures at Kennet School
A collaboration between West Berkshire Council and Kennet School in Thatcham has transformed the SixthForm experience for pupils in the Physical Disability Resource (PDR) Unit.
Thanks to a £140,000 investment, new accessible facilities - including a teaching area, breakout space, physiotherapy room and accessible bathroom - now enable PDR students to learn and socialise alongside their peers.
The project also introduced accessible doors across key blocks, promoting independence and seamless movement throughout the school.
Completed on time and fully operational for the new academic year, the works have already made a difference, allowing the school to welcome three new Year 7 pupils into the PDR Unit, increasing capacity to 25.
Protecting classrooms - Springfield Primary gets flood-proof upgrade
Springfield Primary School in Tilehurst, built in 1968, has recently faced flooding that has made its playgrounds unusable and put buildings at risk.
Our Projects Team investigated and brought in a local design consultant to deliver a long-term solution: a new underground attenuation tank and an upgraded drainage system.
This setup stores excess rainwater and releases it slowly into the sewer, preventing future flooding.
The £193,000 project was completed over the summer holidays with no disruption to pupils. Springfield is now ready to weather any storm - keeping classrooms dry and play areas open, rain or shine.
Castle School expansion on track for January 2026 opening
Our £2.6m expansion of Castle School in Newbury is now three-quarters complete and set to finish by mid-December.
The new building will create thirty-two vital Special Educational Needs places for pupils aged 2-19 with complex needs, as well as new breakout and group rooms to enhance care and support.
It’s a wise investment too, as each local placement saves around £80,000 a year compared to out-ofdistrict alternatives.
“We’re committed to keeping communities at the heart of this process.”
Over the summer, we travelled across the district to gather your views on the proposed creation of Ridgeway Council, a new unitary authority combining West Berkshire, South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse.
This proposal responds to a government call to replace the current two-tier system with larger, more resilient councils serving around 500,000 residents.
During a six-week engagement period, we hosted three drop-in events, three information stands and one community forum, speaking directly with more than 450 residents.
Your feedback will help shape the final proposal, which is due to be submitted to the government by 28 November 2025. If approved, Ridgeway Council could be operational by 2028.
We’re committed to keeping communities at the heart of this process, ensuring your voices continue to guide the development of a council that truly reflects local needs.
ridgewaycouncil.org/home
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West Berkshire Council Here to help
Your council is here to help you and provides a wide range of services, such as adult social care, education, planning, roads, waste and council tax.
Our website contains information about all our services and many transactions can be performed quickly and easily online.
Find out more at: https://westberks.gov.uk
If you’re not online, there are many other ways to get in touch with us:
You can write to us at: West Berkshire Council, Market Street, Newbury RG14 5LD
If you need to visit us in person, our Market Street offices are open: 8:30am-5pm Monday-Thursday and 8:30am-4:30pm on Fridays.
Our advisors are available until 4:30pm Monday – Thursday and 4pm on a Friday
You can also report problems such as potholes or missed bin collections online by scanning this QR code:
https://westberks.gov.uk/reportaproblem
If you would like to contact us by phone, you can call us on the following numbers:
Adult Social Care: 01635 503050
Children’s Social Care: 01635 503090
Council Tax: 01635 519520
Housing: 01635 519530
Parking: 01635 519213
Streetcare and Waste: 01635 519080
Main switchboard and Out of Hours Emergencies: 01635 551111
If you’d like to stay connected with us, why not sign up to our e-newsletters? Subscribe at westberks.gov.uk/newsletters
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Photo by Guy Edwardes