Wokingham Borough
NEWS
Turn to pages 1 6 and 17 to chec k out What's On this summer
Your magazine from Wokingham Borough Council Summer 2017
In this issue...
A great future page 4
Anyone for tennis? page 13
Creating communities page 22
Âť www.wokingham.gov.uk
Keeping the Borough spick and span
page 8
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Keeping in touch with us www.wokingham.gov.uk customerservice@wokingham.gov.uk
(0118) 974 6000 /wokinghamboroughcouncil /wokinghamboroughcouncil @WokinghamBC /WokinghamBC Visit us: Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 5pm Write to us: Wokingham Borough Council, Civic Offices, Shute End, Wokingham RG40 1BN Find out more information by: Email and text updates. Register at: www.wokingham.gov.uk
Also in this issue...
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Self-service is proving a hit
16-17
What's On this summer
25
Thinking about your future
31
Summer Reading Challenge
Summer 2017
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Welcome
"This Council has always been efficient and innovative, but we're facing challenging financial times. "Our main sources of funding are being reduced by Government, year-on-year, placing additional burden on our Council Tax-payers and local businesses. "I'm privileged and honoured to serve our Borough and its residents as Leader of the Council. My past five years' experience as Executive Member for Children's Services one of the most complex roles in local government - will, I hope, stand me in good stead for the demanding times ahead. "My priorities for the coming year are to ensure the Council continues to provide resilient public services. At the same time, we need to look at new opportunities and think outside the box to protect your vital services. "Addressing housing issues also remains a top priority for me. There is an in-depth look at the unique issues facing our Borough schools on page 6 of this magazine. We've been campaigning to central
Government behind the scenes for several years asking for more equitable funding for our schools, and will continue to do so. "You can read more about the success of our self-serve kiosks at our libraries on page 10; plus there's also an update on our regeneration project in Wokingham (pages 4 and 5). "Thanks to all of you who took part last autumn in the budget engagement sessions. We'd like more of you to take part this year, and we'll be launching an online survey this summer (page 21). "Fantastic extra care facilities are also due to open in Woodley this autumn (page 25). "In the meantime I wish you all a relaxing and happy summer. If you have any questions or comments, please get in touch with me via email at: Charlotte.HaithamTaylor@ wokingham.gov.uk." Cllr Charlotte Haitham Taylor Leader of the Council
Editorial and design: Wokingham Borough Council's Communications Team Produced by: Digital Solutions on uncoated 60gsm UPM Matt C paper Cost: 7p per person / 16p per household To advertise in Wokingham Borough News, or you have any other queries about this magazine, including delivery, please email: communications@wokingham.gov.uk. A pdf version is available online at: http://news.wokingham.gov.uk/wokingham-borough-news
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A great future for Wokingham
Construction is well underway at Peach Place, the new Carnival multi-storey car park is open, and work is due to start shortly at Elms Field. Wokingham town centre will see lots of changes and improvements during the next few years. Making the Borough a great place to live and an even better place to do business is at the heart of our vision, and our regeneration project is a major step towards creating a bright future for everyone - whether residents, workers or businesses. As our regeneration plans move from the drawing board to delivery, we're working hard to make sure Wokingham town centre can be a success for years to come, attracting new businesses to its heart to encourage people to come into it rather than go elsewhere as they do now. Retail units in Wokingham are already in high demand. Vacant units are being quickly snapped up when they become available, and this is set to continue. American Amusements Limited, which runs the existing Big Apple bowling alley, has already started work on fitting out a brand new state-of-the-art bowling alley on the ground floor of the new car park. The bowling alley is due to open this autumn. Alongside this we've already confirmed pre-lets for Premier Inn, Aldi and Everyman Cinemas as part of the Elms Field scheme and we expect to be making further announcements during the coming months. It is crucial to attract new businesses to Wokingham. Not only do they give visitors a richer experience of the town, offering better choice and variety, but these businesses will also help generate more than 550 new jobs, see millions more spent annually in the town centre and - even better for residents - secure a long-term rental income back to us, to reinvest in services and projects across the whole Borough for years to come. With this in mind, we've been working with letting agents Strutt and Parker to provide a strong lettings strategy.
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The regeneration wants to:
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Promote the town as something different from our larger neighbours; making sure some of the bigger brands are here to meet people's daily shopping needs while also building smaller units for more niche boutiques and independent businesses Attract businesses to the town that complement the existing strong independent retailers, such as those in Denmark Street and Bush Walk Capitalise on Wokingham's reputation as a place to eat or socialise. We want to make sure there are lots of great choices in the town, that also link to the planned pedestrianised areas with alfresco seating Create public spaces to complement an improved Market Place, an expanded local market, and facilities for new events such as visiting specialist markets and fayres Bring back things for people to do throughout the day and into the evening, such as the new play area, the Everyman boutique cinema and the new Carnival leisure complex with its community spaces and opportunities for culture and entertainment in the convertible sports hall / performance space, large studios, flexible library spaces and exhibition areas Make sure new properties are built to a high standard, using materials reflecting the town's existing architecture. We want them to be flexible to meet the changing needs of businesses for years to come, with internal spaces that move and changed to meet retail demands, and outdoor spaces for a Executive view wide variety of events and activities Cllr Stuart Munro, Executive Continue to encourage medium and long stay Member for Business and Economic parking at the edges of the town centre, to free Development and Regeneration up the central car parks "Since we started delivering the plans for Wokingham we've been Keep up-to-date with what's really pleased by the interest from happening and the latest news on businesses taking up units in the town centre. We continue to be contacted by a range of companies, the regeneration microsite at: from larger internationals to smaller local www.regenerationcompany.co.uk independents, who all believe Wokingham town centre is a great place to do business."
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A more welcoming Market Place The heart of Wokingham town centre is being redesigned to create an attractive, uncluttered Market Place safer for pedestrians, and more accessible for those with disabilities. These long-awaited improvements, due to start soon, are thanks to a £3.8million joint project between us and Wokingham Town Council. They include the removal of the bus lane next to the Town Hall, new trees better suited to their urban environment, dedicated loading bays to prevent road blocks, and more space for the town's café culture to spill out onto the streets. The project is due to be completed by spring. More information • www.wokingham-tc.gov.uk • www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'Market Place improvements')
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Fairer funding for our schools
Our schools face the same problems as those nationally, but the factors combining in our Borough create a unique storm of challenges. Low funding Average funding per pupil in Wokingham Borough for 2016/17 is £4,166.51. In The City of London, it's more than double.
The effects of building new schools A rise in the birth rate and new homes means we need more schools. But new schools incur major costs to us in the 18-months before they even open.
Pupil progress Behind our high levels of pupil attainment are mixed levels of pupil progress. Our schools know this and track pupils' progress efficiently, but must balance their finances to support those pupils who need additional help.
During the past five years we've created 3,600 additional pupil places through new academies, free schools and school expansion projects - by investing some £70million.
Although our Borough is affluent, there are also some small areas of deprivation. The government recognises the difficulties in making a difference in these circumstances, so we're part of Ofsted's Narrowing the Gap pilot to understand how to fix this. Special Educational Needs We've seen an increase in the number of pupils with significant levels of special educational needs. Funding issues and a shortage of specialist staff mean pupils may be placed in expensive placements, sometimes further afield, which also incurs transport costs. We're investing to create more local specialist unit places, such as at St Crispin's Secondary School. National Funding Formula While it's true some Wokingham Borough schools might gain under the Government's proposals, a question mark hangs over rural schools and those with an admission number of 30 or less. Schools making cuts Staffing levels, curriculum development, residential trips, and learning resources such as vital text books are all under the spotlight.
And 1,800 more places are planned, at a projected cost of £56million. Rising staffing costs Schools must now also bear the brunt of increased employer costs such as National Insurance, increases to the National Minimum Wage, expenditure on redundancies and paid sick leave. Recruitment difficulties Our location on the outside of the London fringe allowance does not help. The high cost of living in our borough is also problematic.
Executive view Cllr Mark Ashwell, Executive Member for Children's Services "Our schools in the Borough have superb reputations, a track record of success, and good levels of attainment. This despite being the lowest funded authority in the country, with funding significantly lower than metropolitan areas, and lower per-pupil values than neighbouring authorities."
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Empowering young people with the skills for success Pupils at seven schools from the Wokingham Borough are benefitting from a scheme which bridges the gap between education and employment - giving young people the skills they need to succeed in work. Business volunteers, called Enterprise Advisers, work with schools to shape employer engagement strategies, drawing on their existing business networks. Emmbrook School, Forest School, Holt School, Piggott School, St Crispin's School, Waingels College and Maiden Erlegh are part of the Thames Valley Berkshire Enterprise Adviser Network, a joint initiative by The Careers & Enterprise Company and Thames Valley Berkshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP). "The Enterprise Adviser Network provides an excellent opportunity for schools and employers to work more collaboratively to ensure students possess the necessary skills for the workplace," said Julian Bushell, Wokingham secondary federation manager. "It's great to have a direct link to The Careers & Enterprise Company to co-ordinate activities and to help young people understand the local skill gaps and requirements for the workplace."
Gorse Ride update The regeneration of Gorse Ride South in Finchampstead is going well with a planning application for the first phase expected later this year. The full redevelopment of the estate was approved in principle (subject to funding) by our decision-making executive in March. More specific details were also agreed at that time for the first phase, such as the rehousing of a number of tenants and subsequent demolition and redevelopment of Cockayne Court as well as some properties in Arnett Avenue (97 to 107 odd numbers) and 154 Barkham Ride. Early indications suggest that between 40 and 46 homes could be built in this phase at a cost of about ÂŁ6million. The project received an early boost thanks to a ÂŁ253,700 grant from the Department of Communities and Local Government's Estate Regeneration Fund, which helps regeneration schemes get up and running. This money will help with the redevelopment's planning, and in particular to pay for detailed community engagement to ensure local people are fully involved in the regeneration.
Executive view Cllr Julian McGhee Sumner, Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing "I'm sure many people in Gorse Ride South share my feeling that this regeneration cannot come soon enough. But we also understand there's going to be some nervousness, so it's vital we take residents with us - including them fully in the planning and development of their new community."
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Keeping the Borough spick and span The annual Borough-wide litter pick took place in April and saw more than 900 volunteers roll up their sleeves to clear up rubbish. Some ten tonnes of rubbish was collected, with recyclable material such as cardboard, paper and cans sent to a recycling centre. Other rubbish included a stolen purse, an intravenous drip, mini-motorbike, handcuffs, a satellite dish, furniture and car parts. While this annual event helps take care of some of the rubbish accumulated during the year, people can also help keep their neighbourhoods green and litter free by joining the adopt-a-street scheme. Andrew Le Breuilly (right), launched Wokingham Litter Heroes in 2016, it now boasts 330 supporters on its Facebook page, and he has several volunteers who regularly go out litter picking in and around Wokingham town centre. "We have no rules or set time to go out. It depends on the time volunteers have available," said Andrew. "Some collect rubbish when they see it walking to school, or the shops, and some prefer to go out more regularly. It's all about having a positive attitude towards where we live. We can't stop the minority from dropping litter, but we can make the place look better for the rest of us.
EASI does it
Andrew with his trusty volunteers… Rosie (8), Jennifer (14) and Julie
"We sometimes come across some odd things such as crash helmets, Teddy bears and mobile phones. "It's a very rewarding job. Passers-by often say what a great job we're doing and how clean and tidy the area looks." Some 500 people have joined the adopt-a-street scheme. If you'd like to take part, we will give you a litter picker and bags, which can be left out for collection with your normal weekly household rubbish. More information • www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'adopt-a-street') • www.facebook.com/wokinghamlitterheroes • customerservice@wokingham.gov.uk • (0118) 974 6000
EASI (Earley Adopt-A-Street Initiative) was formed by Maiden Erlegh Residents' Association and Earley Environmental Group and now operates across all of Earley, apart from the roads listed below. If you could help collect litter and 'adopt' one of the following roads then please contact Peter Soul on (0118) 926 4997 or email: peter@petersoul.co.uk. Amber Close, Chatteris Way, Courts Road*, Fleetham Gardens, Hawkedon Way*, Hornbeam Drive*, Maltby Way*, Marefield*, Markby Way* and Stanton Close (*plus side roads)
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Self-service is proving a hit
Self-service kiosks at six of our libraries are proving popular with the Borough's book lovers. The kiosks - which allow you to borrow, return and renew books as well as pay fines - were installed in April at Finchampstead, Lower Earley, Twyford, Wokingham, Woodley and Winnersh libraries. Implementing the kiosks has helped us change our staffing patterns to keep the libraries open for longer, when people want to use them. People can now visit Wokingham Library on a Wednesday afternoon, the Lower Earley and Winnersh Libraries on a Saturday afternoon. Also by opening on Mondays, Woodley Library becomes the Borough's first library open seven days a week. And the kiosks are being very well-used, with more than half of the book issues and returns in the Finchampstead Library now taking place on the kiosks. The figures are similar for Wokingham Library (approximately 40 per cent) and Lower Earley and Woodley Libraries (some 27 per cent each). Besides checking out and returning books, the kiosks also take cash payments and promote library activities and other local events. By autumn, it's also expected the kiosks will be able to take contactless and card payments.
The self-service kiosks were introduced following consultation last year as part of our new Library Offer, which sets out how the library service will be run. As well as doing traditional library things, the Borough's libraries also offer other council services, employability support for young people, and a wide range of events for adults and children. For some of the events on offer for children, families and adults this summer, turn to pages 16 and 17 for the What's On guide.
Executive view Cllr Norman Jorgensen, Executive Member for Environment, Sports, Environmental Health, Leisure and Libraries "While other local authorities have been closing libraries and cutting services, we've increased what's on offer in ours. We've done this by balancing the need to protect what’s wonderful about traditional libraries with the need to innovate and improve. Introducing self-service is a good example of this."
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Family festival at Dinton will be simply
MARVELLOUS This month (July 29 and 30) the family-friendly music festival Marvellous will be returning to Dinton Pastures for a weekend of live music and entertainment. There will be music inspired by ABBA, Adele, The Beatles, Brian Adams, Coldplay, Elton John, Fleetwood Mac, Foo Fighters, Madness, Motown, Phil Collins, Prince, Queen and Take That. Other attractions include a big kid's village, fun fair, food and drink stalls plus a new addition for this year - a big top circus featuring jugglers, acrobats, specialist acts, magicians and clowns. One of this year's highlights is sure to be the last ever performance from The Great Pretender, a Freddie Mercury tribute artist, who will be closing the festival with a show-stopping performance on the Sunday evening. Tickets cost £60 for the weekend (£30 for children) or £38 (£19 for children) for day tickets (Saturday or Sunday) with weekend, camping/glamping packages available. Visit: www.marvellousfestivals.com to book yours now!
Need citizenship services? We can help… In the last edition of Wokingham Borough News we focussed on weddings and other civil ceremonies. But did you know Wokingham Register Office also offers some citizenship services, in partnership with UK Visas and Immigration? Nationality Checking Service This is a 'check and send' service for people applying for British citizenship. The benefits are: • Your application form is checked and sent by special delivery • You keep your original documentation and passport • You can apply for a British passport at the same time, which can speed up the process, and it's automatically sent to you if your application is successful European Passport Return Service This is for EEA (European Economic Area) or Swiss nationals who've completed an online application to register for qualified person status, or for permanent residency: • You can keep your passport • Your application form and documentation are sent by special delivery • We offer a drop-in service on certain days / times. You simply need to phone up and pay before you come But don’t just take our word for it... "Extremely efficient, helpful and friendly staff"
Find out more at: www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'citizenship') or call the Wokingham Register Office on (0118) 974 6554
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It's everybody's responsibility to keep children safe What is the Wokingham Safeguarding Children's Board (WSCB)?
It's simple and straight forward to report concerns. Any of these:
It's a group of people from organisations - such as police, health, schools, voluntary sectors and us working to ensure children are safe in the Wokingham Borough, and properly supported.
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Children and young people, their welfare, protection and promoting their best interests, are at the heart of everything the WSCB does. Its work covers three areas:
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Call us on (0118) 908 8002 or email: triage@wokingham.gov.uk Call Thames Valley Police's non-emergency number 101 Call the NSPCC (National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children) 24-hour helpline: 0808 800 5000 For concerns out-of-hours you can also call our Emergency Duty Team: (01344) 786 543 Call 999 in an emergency, or if you believe a child is in immediate danger
Responsive safeguarding - protecting children who are suffering, or at risk of significant harm • Targeted safeguarding - targeting work, resources and policies at particular groups of children at risk from harm • Universal safeguarding - creating a safe environment for all children
Where to find advice and support
How to report any concerns
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It's everybody's responsibility to keep children safe. Although the vast majority of Wokingham Borough's young people are well-cared for and protected, we're not immune to problems. Potential issues come in a range of forms including physical, emotional or sexual abuse, or neglect. Safeguarding is also about helping children grow up into confident, healthy and happy adults. You could spot issues as a neighbour, friend, parent, relative, child minder, teacher or doctor - or while working for an organisation that has contact with children and young people. An early alert to the WSCB, or one of its members, could be vital for a child at risk. If you have any worries about a child or young person you feel is being illtreated, abused or neglected, please contact us immediately. Children and their parents may need help urgently.
The WSCB website (www.wokinghamlscb.org.uk) is a useful first point of contact if you have concerns, or there are any issues that might be affecting you. You can also find advice for parents and carers, as well as children and young people on issues such as: Helping your child stay safe online, using social media, apps and games for example • Parenting advice and support • Bullying problems • Private fostering (informal arrangements in which you might be looking after somebody else's child) (find out more on page 18)
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Welcome to your new home Emma Jones is one of the first to move into the new ÂŁ13million Phoenix Avenue, in the heart of Wokingham's Norreys community. Twenty-two homes have now been handed over to tenants, with the remaining 46 affordable homes for rent due to be finished during the summer in phases. Wokingham Borough Mayor Cllr Rob Stanton was on hand to give Emma and daughter Sophie the keys to their front door. "I cried with joy when I saw our new home," said Emma. "It's beautiful. My partner Sam and I had been living in a converted garage before, so to be living in a brand new house is wonderful." The new development is one of the first of its kind, commissioned by the Council and built by our housing developer Wokingham Housing Ltd, on behalf of Berry Brook Homes, which manages affordable housing. Phoenix Avenue is a mix of one-bedroom apartments to four-bedroom houses and replaces the former dilapidated Eustace Crescent, which was demolished to make way for this new community.
Anyone for tennis? The new tennis courts at Cantley Park in Wokingham were recently officially opened as part of the Great British Tennis Weekend (GBTW). We've been working with the Lawn Tennis Association (LTA) to improve the current nine outdoor court tennis facilities, with the addition of three new courts. Modern floodlights, that avoid light pollution, have also been installed in six courts and a new clubhouse built, thanks to funding from developer contributions and the LTA. An online court booking system has also been introduced to make it easier for everyone to access the facilities, and more affordable. GDTennis is managing the facilities with plans for an exciting and varied programme of tennis activities for all ages and abilities all-year round. The annual cost of a family membership will be ÂŁ65 for all family members to play as often as they wish. Find out more at: www.cantleyparktennis.co.uk
The next GBTW is due to take place at Cantley Park this month (July 22 and 23). There will be free tennis coaching sessions for all ages and abilities during the day, family time and free play. Find out more at: https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/OpenDays
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Skate park on a roll Wokingham's town centre skate park is due to be rebuilt and renamed, later this summer. Look out for more details, in the next few weeks. The dated equipment at St Crispin's Skate Park, some of which in recent years has become damaged beyond repair, will be replaced by a modern concrete park that will be designed with the help of local skaters. The skate park is also going to have a new name to reflect its updated and improved facilities. The name will be chosen with the help of park users, so look out for more details of how to get involved in local and social media during the summer. The decision to rebuild the skate park came following a public consultation that revealed that although the park was well located, its current equipment is not attractive to keen skaters, BMX riders or other users.
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It also became clear from the consultation that noise from the old ramps was a problem for some local residents. Replacing the old metal ramps with concrete ones will significantly reduce the noise and help the park attract more users.
Helping you with your journey My Journey Wokingham is a Borough-wide sustainable travel campaign to help and inspire you to travel by alternative methods, such as by bus, cycling, train or walking. People who use their cars less can not only save money, but also improve their health and wellbeing. Reducing car travel also helps to reduce congestion on local roads and improve air quality across the Borough. It also has activities for all ages including a balance bike club, SHINE over-60s group rides, family rides, adult cycle training (with loan bikes available) as well as puncture repair workshops, bike checks and security marking. Keep up-to-date with what's going on locally by following them on Twitter (@MJWokingham) or like them on Facebook (facebook.com/MJWokingham). But don't just take our word for it‌
For a full list of exciting events just visit the My Journey Wokingham website: www.myjourneywokingham.com
"Just wanted to thank you for your hard work today getting Lilly and Sienna to cycle. They can both cycle now, and say they want to do it every day for the rest of their lives‌ their words."
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Work skills for young people at Dinton Pastures Our Countryside Service based, at Dinton Pastures, is working alongside Elevate Wokingham offering employment support and experience to young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in education, employment or training.
The aim is to help young people build confidence and job skills such as teamwork; problem solving, organisational and leadership skills; and learn about working outdoors and wildlife conservation. Work experience includes engaging directly with the public, general maintenance and inspecting country parks, landscaping, pond clearing and operating and maintaining plant and hand tools. When a young person completes the scheme, they will either be helped to find further employment or certified courses through Elevate Wokingham, offered alternative work experience, or offered a seasonal job at Dinton. Callum (21), who has been part of the scheme since May, said: "It was a really great experience and I learnt lots of new skills that I hope to be able to use in future employment." Callum has learnt how to use an axe safely when log splitting as well a ride-on mower that he used to maintain the public footpaths in Woodley. More information • beth.blampied@wokingham.gov.uk • 07809 102936
New community space for all If you head down to Woodley shopping centre you might notice something a little different. The northern end has had a makeover to be a more flexible space for traders, shoppers and community events. The £290,000 project has refreshed the precinct, from the pavement next to the disabled parking bays northwards; removing cluttered and dated street furniture and installing contemporary seating, litter bins and bike stands. We've also replaced the existing pagoda with a modern structure to provide shelter, as well as created a new performance area. The aim was to open up the area to create a community space for outdoor events such as concerts, alfresco dining and pop-up exhibitions, and make it more family friendly with extra seating put out when needed. Most of the funding has come from developers' contributions for the Woodley area, topped up with £50,000 from Woodley Town Council and £40,000 from the Woodley Town Centre Management Initiative, which included £10,000 from the Mary Portas scheme. Woodley Town Council is managing the new pagoda and will be compiling a list of events for the summer.
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What's On this summer... Throughout the summer
Animal Agents
Talk about your Summer Reading Challenge books, storytelling and other fun activities with volunteers at various libraries across the Borough. Every Tuesday
Paddleboard Fitness
Paddle, stretch and strengthen your way to fitness in the fresh air with the help of our qualified instructors. No previous experience required. 6.30am to 8am and 6pm to 7.30pm, £72 (six sessions) Every Tuesday
Dementia-friendly Chair-based Exercise
Come along to the Westmead Centre, Rances Lane, Wokingham (11.45am to 12.30pm) or Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, Lower Earley (1.30pm to 2.15pm) to take part in a dementia-friendly gentle exercise class that helps prevents falls. Book a place by calling (0118) 974 3728 £2.50 Every Wednesday
Twilight Club
Practise your new-found skills, try out a new boat or simply relax by the BBQ - the perfect midweek de-stress session. Boats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and don't forget food for the grill! 6pm to 8pm, £12 Every Wednesday
Open Water Swimming Train for an event or simply enjoy a wild swim at Dinton Pastures. 400m and 750m courses available. 6pm to 8pm, £3.50
Sundays
Vital Skills for Independent Paddlers
This one-day course covers the skills and knowledge for any independent paddler looking to buy their own boat or improve their understanding. Full day, £47 July 11 to 22
Nell Gwynn
Nell Gwynn charts the rise of an unlikely heroine, from her roots in Coal Yard Alley to her success as Britain's most celebrated actress. Tickets available from: www. wokingham-theatre.org.uk 7.45pm, £12 Wednesday July 12
Art Club
Come and learn about different artists at Winnersh Library. For children aged seven to 11. 3.45pm to 4.45pm, £2 Thursday July 13
Little Stars Taster
With Relax Kids, for children aged four to seven at Wokingham Library. 4pm to 4.30pm, £3 Thursday July 13
Chill Skills Taster
With Relax Kids, for teenagers at Wokingham Library. Places must be booked. 5pm to 6pm, £3 Thursday July 13
Book Chat
Drop-in and join Wokingham Library for book recommendations and coffee. 10.30am to 11.30am, free Monday July 17
Alternative Therapy and Pamper Evening Enjoy a range of holistic treatments at Woodley...
Library. Refreshments available. Book a place by calling (0118) 969 0304. 7pm, £3 Monday July 17
Book to Film
A look at well-known books translated to screen. An illustrated talk at Wokingham Library with Tony King. Book a place by calling (0118) 978 1368. 5.45pm to 7pm, £3 July 22 to August 5
Annual summer exhibition
62nd annual exhibition and sale of paintings, ceramics, glass and jewellery by local artists at St Paul's Parish Rooms, Wokingham. Car parking and refreshments available. 10am to 5.30pm, free July 24 to September 1
Wokingham Active Kids Multi-sport Camp Looking for something to entertain the kids this summer? Why not sign them up for Wokingham Active Kids? For children aged five to 12, young people can try out a wide variety of sports, including Football (with Reading Football Club), rugby, athletics, basketball, trampolining, swimming, judo and gymnastics. From £12 per child, full details at: www.wokingham. gov.uk (search for 'active kids') Saturday July 29
Teen Writing Workshops
A full-day workshop session on realistic writing, for teenagers at Wokingham Library. Places must be booked. 10.30am to 3pm, £4
Monday July 31
Guide Dogs Morning
Just drop-in to learn about and meet guide dogs and their owners as well as take part in some fun activities at Woodley Library. 10am to noon, free Thursday August 3
Rainforest Discovery
Quirks Animal Roadshow will take children on a journey through the rainforest, to interact with the animals living there. For families with children aged four to 12. Places must be booked, £4. Winnersh Library, 3pm to 4pm Thursday August 3
Children's Writing Course
Fun writing course with animal themes, for children aged nine to 12. Runs weekly during August. Places must be booked, £1 charge. Maiden Erlegh Library, 2.30pm to 3.15pm Friday August 4
Author visit from Katrina Charman
Come and meet the author of the Poppy’s Place series, Katrina Charman and make your own version of Poppy the cat to take home. For children aged seven to 11. Places must be booked. Wokingham Library, 10.30am to 11.30am Saturday August 5
Author visit from Sarah Barfield
Come and meet the author of The Adventures of Zed and Dez, Sarah Barfield, who will introduce you to Zed and Dez, followed by a fun secret gadget activity. For children aged five to nine. Places must be booked. Wokingham Library, 10.30am to 11.30am
Saturday August 5
Thursday August 10
A full-day workshop session on how to write stories with a sparkling sense of humour. Wokingham Library, 10.30am to 3pm, £4
Come along and hear from the Dogs Trust about how to look after your dog, with stories and colouring activity. For children aged four to 11. Just drop in! Woodley Library, 11am to noon
Teen Writing Workshops
Saturday August 5
Earley Green Fair
All the usual stalls and fun of the fair at Maiden Erlegh Nature Reserve. 10am to 3pm August 5 and 6
Powerboat Licence
The Royal Yachting Association Powerboat Level 2 weekend course will give you the skills to drive a powerboat competently and safely. Full weekend, £240 Monday August 7
Pinocchio
Meet the Blue Fairy, Pinocchio, Jiminy Cricket, Gepetto and Stromboli with this family singalong. Join-in and meet the cast at Woodley Library. 2.30pm to 3.30pm, £5 Tuesday August 8
Rainforest Discovery
Quirks Animal Roadshow will take children on a journey through the rainforest, to interact with the animals that live there. For families with children aged four to 12. Maiden Erlegh Library, 2pm to 3pm, £4 Tuesday August 8
Animal Mystery
Come and catch a criminal with chemistry! Just dropin for fun experiments and stories with Reading University's Chemistry Outreach Team. For children aged four to 11. Lower Earley Library, 10.30am to 12.30pm
Doggy Tales and craft
Saturday August 12
Allotment Open Day
At Ormonde Road, Wokingham allotment and in support of National Allotment Week. 2pm to 4pm Monday August 14
Fur and Feathers
Come and meet some birds of prey with talk and handson experience. For families with children aged five and over, £4 charge. Finchampstead Library, 9.45am to 10.45am August 19 and 20
Introduction to Dinghy Sailing
Following the Royal Yachting Association Level 1 syllabus, this course introduces you to the wonderful world of dinghy sailing and will enable you to take out one of our small dinghies. Full weekend, £181 August 19 and 20
Improvers Dinghy Sailing Build on your sailing knowledge, skills and confidence following the Royal Yachting Association Level 2 syllabus. On completion, you will be able to hire our double-handed dinghies. Full weekend, £181 Monday August 21
Mini Bug Models
Come and create some Plasticine bugs in this fun...
modelling session, for children aged eight and over. Places must be booked, £2.50 charge Twyford Library, 2.30pm to 3.30pm
WWII includes refreshments. Book a place by calling (0118) 978 1368. 10.30am to 11.30am, £3
Thursday August 31
A comedy of reminiscence by Shelagh Stephenson, directed by Frank Kaye, at Woodley Theatre. Tickets available at: www.woodleytheatre.org
Heritage Walk
Enjoy a walk around Wokingham and learn some fascinating facts about the town's history. Starting at Wokingham Library. Book a place by calling (0118) 978 1368. 10.30am to 11.45am, free
September 26 to 30
The Memory of Water
Friday September 29
Phil Beer in Concert
With Relax Kids, for children aged eight to 12 at Wokingham Library. Places must be booked, £3 charge 10.30am to 11.30am
With a professional career of over 36 years, Phil has a great deal of material to draw on for his solo appearances. It is a treat of past and current favourites from one of the most popular musicians on the acoustic circuit. Tickets available from: www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk 7.30pm to 10.30pm, £13
Friday September 8
Booking information
Monday September 4
Back to School Relax Kids Taster
The Goat Roper Rodeo Band
With just two old guitars, an upright bass and a bucket full of rich, aching harmony, the band preach footstomping country blues like you've never heard before. Tickets available from: www. wokinghammusicclub.co.uk 7.30pm to 10.30pm, £10 Monday September 11
Rhymetime in the Park Come and join us at Dinton Pastures for our Rhymetime in the Park for the underfives. There will be nursery rhymes, songs and a free book up for grabs! You can also collect your Bookstart pack too. 10am to noon, free Wednesday September 20
Early Closing Day
An illustrated talk with Mike Cooper at Wokingham Library about air raids in Reading in...
To book library events, and for more dates and times, please visit: www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'libraries') To book countryside events, and for more dates and times, please visit: www.dinton-pastures.co.uk To book Wokingham Active Kids events please visit: www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'active kids') For all other events please contact the organiser directly.
For a full list of events, or for booking informati on, visit the What's On Guide on our website
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Blue Badges made easier for you We've made it easier and quicker for you to apply for or renew a disabled parking badge, otherwise known as a Blue Badge. You can now apply online via our customer account service, so: • • • • • •
You can apply at a time, and place, that suits you You only see those questions relevant to you You receive an immediate decision on your application You can upload your supporting documentation, or email it Your badge is sent direct to your home address It takes around 10 working days if everything is correctly completed
If you need support completing the application, we can help you either over the phone or face-to-face at our Shute End offices. Further information on Blue Badges, or to apply or renew a badge, can be found on our website. Alternatively you can email or call us. For existing badge holders, we will no longer send reminder letters so please make a note of when your current badge is due to expire. You can re-apply up to four weeks before the expiry date. More information • www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'blue badges') • dpb@wokingham.gov.uk • (0118) 974 6811
What is private fostering? Private fostering is when a child or young person aged 16 or under (or 18 if they are disabled) is cared for by an adult (who is not a close relative) for 28 days or more. A private foster carer may be: • A friend of the family • The parent of a friend of the child • Someone who is previously unknown to the child's family who is willing to privately foster If someone else is looking after your child, or if you're looking after someone else’s child, you could be privately fostering. You must tell us. We will take your details and arrange for a social worker to visit. For more information or to tell us about a private fostering arrangement please contact: • www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'private fostering') • triage@wokingham.gov.uk • (0118) 908 8002
Customer Account and app Do you want to a new black recycling box or have you spotted some fly tipping that needs clearing? Or perhaps you want to tell us about a pothole or sign-up for our garden waste collection service? You can do all this and more digitally, using our online customer account via our website. And registering for a digital customer account means we can let you know, by your choice of email or text, how your request or order is progressing. Our digital customer account service can also now be accessed through an app. To set up your own customer account visit: https://selfservice.wokingham.gov.uk/register or download the app to your mobile device from the iTunes and Android stores.
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Community Infrastructure Levy in your area Town and parish councils across the Borough are beginning to benefit from their share of the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) - the charge paid by developers to fund infrastructure improvements. We use most of it to pay for the roads, schools, sports and community facilities, parks and play areas that accompany new housing. The rest of this funding (15 per cent in most cases) goes directly to the town or parish council in the area where the development is taking place. When CIL funds are handed to town and parish councils they're also given a list of infrastructure projects in their area from which they can choose to jointly fund with us. When this happens we cover the management and design costs. Alternatively, they can choose to fund their own projects, in which case they meet the costs Executive view themselves. Cllr Simon Weeks, Executive Member for Planning and Towns and parishes receive different amounts of CIL Enforcement depending on how much development is taking place in "The CIL is quite complicated, but their area. Also, the proportion they receive increases to 25 per cent if they have an Adopted Neighbourhood Plan. at its heart is a simple principle: developers pay for the roads, schools, sports, health and community centres needed by You can contact your town or parish council to find out these new communities. The percentage going to how much CIL it is receiving, how it intends to spend it, towns and parishes gives them grass roots decisionor send any queries to: making choices." developer.contributions@wokingham.gov.uk.
Dates for your diary Hurst Horticultural Show - Saturday August 19 This much-loved family-friendly traditional village show is now in its 104th year. People can enter a variety of classes from massive marrows to scary scarecrows and everything in-between. There are also classes in flowers, vegetables, fruit, home baking, preserves, gin and vodka, photography, art and handcrafts. Also, many children's classes for ages five to 15. There's also due to be entertainment from the Waltham St. Lawrence Silver Band, licenced bar and hot/cold refreshments. For more information, visit: www.hursthorticulturalshow.org
Swallowfield Show - August 27 and 28 The 133rd Swallowfield Show returns to Swallowfield Park this year. Events include horse and dog shows, trade stands, craft stalls, artisan foods, as well as a classic vehicles display, and an art and history exhibition. The show is run by local volunteers who are always looking for more helpers. Find out more at: www.swallowfieldshow.co.uk
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Update on 21st Century Council Programme
It's a challenging time for local government. The amount of money councils receive from central Government is reducing year-on-year and we have to save almost ÂŁ19million by March 2020. Here in Wokingham Borough we work hard to keep the services you need, at a price you can afford, while keeping Council Tax rises to a minimum. We're working hard to make efficiencies, so we can avoid making cuts in services. We've previously told you about our far-reaching 21st Century Council Programme, which will contribute to these savings. We will become a leaner and more efficient council costing significantly less to run, and work is well underway for Phase 1 of this programme. We know too that we need to change to survive. And that's why during the coming year you will see improved availability and access our services, with more online and self-service, while ensuring those who need or want to speak to someone can still do this. You will also see swifter solutions to your issues and queries as we move into Phase 2 of the programme.
Executive view Cllr Oliver Whittle, Executive Member for Finance, 21st Century Council, Internal Services and Human Resources "The changes to date have affected our internal support services so you shouldn’t notice any difference when you contact us. But these 'back office' changes will save £2million."
Online budget consultation With difficult funding decisions looming for all local authorities, we plan this year to again reach out to you to talk about how we can best use our reducing resources. We're launching a two-year engagement and consultation to help us make the very challenging funding decisions necessary when our revenue grant from central Government is cut completely in 2019/20. During the past two years we've held autumn dropin sessions giving you the chance to learn more about our financial situation, and give your views on spending priorities. These sessions have given us useful feedback thank you - but we now need many more people to get involved. So we're setting up a simple online consultation, which will kick-start our new engagement.
The survey will ask you about your priorities. It will be launched this summer and continue during autumn so as many of you as possible can take part. We'll also work with schools and other groups to encourage the widest range of communities as possible to give us their views. The results of this year's survey will be published online and used by your elected councillors to agree specific budget savings, or proposals, which we will then consult on next year. If you want to receive updates on the budget engagement please email: communityengagement@wokingham.gov.uk See the findings from last year's sessions online at: www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'consultation').
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Creating new communities
Wokingham Borough consistently ranks among one of the best places to live in England, so is a prime location for the national drive for more housing - people want to live here and the government wants more homes built here. We are accommodating these homes in the four major development areas (Arborfield Garrison, Shinfield Parish, and North and South of Wokingham town). We understand these bring difficulties for nearby residents and can be contentious - but there are real benefits that can be felt by all. Nature parks As part of the new developments, there will be about 15 new nature parks across the Borough. Called SANGs (Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace), these are planted with a range of native plants and provide habitats for wildlife. They are fully enclosed, with dog safe fencing, and have walking paths. Some have car parks and benches, others are left more natural. So far we've seen nine nature parks open, with a combined area of nearly 100 hectares, equivalent to 135 football pitches. And, we've got more to come with a combined area of 220 hectares, or more than 300 football pitches. Open SANGS: • Hazebrook Meadow - off Biggs Lane and Commonfield Lane, Arborfield • Rook's Nest Wood - Barkham Ride, Finchampstead • Langley Mead - Hyde End Road, Shinfield • Mays Farm Meadows - Hyde End Lane, Shinfield • Clare's Green Field - Ryeish Lane, Shinfield • Keephatch Woods - Binfield Road, Wokingham • Kentwood Meadow - Warren House Road, Wokingham • Old Forest Road Meadows - off Old Forest Road, Wokingham • Buckhurst Meadows - William Heelas Way, Wokingham
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Arborfield Garrison will also see a new sports hub with a gym, sports halls and outdoor pitches. These new sporting facilities will be available to all Wokingham Borough residents.
Schools Last year saw the opening of Bohunt School Wokingham at Arborfield Garrison. This will create secondary school spaces in the south of the Borough. The area will also have two new primary schools.
Parks A new children's play area is already open in Montague Park, Wokingham and another is due to open in Croft Gardens, Spencers Wood. Not only will the new developments create local parks and play areas, but they also bring improvements at our larger parks such as Dinton Pastures.
Road and highway improvements One of the most important benefits of concentrating growth in our major development areas is that we're able to get developers to make significant contributions There will also be two new primaries in Shinfield to improve our road network. These will include Parish, one in North Wokingham (which will open Arborfield Relief Road, Shinfield Eastern Relief Road in Matthewsgreen in September) and two in South (being built by Hochtief for the University of Reading), Wokingham (Floreat Montague Park Primary School North Wokingham Distributor Road, South Wokingham opened last year and another will be built south of the Distributor Road and Winnersh Relief Road. railway). Improvements to California Crossroads and Barkham Community centres Bridge on Barkham Road are scheduled for the coming In Arborfield there will be a large new community years. For more on these, see pages 28 and 29. building in the new village centre, with a smaller neighbourhood centre also planned for the southern Residents satisfied with new part of the development. For Shinfield, the plan is for a new community centre built in partnership with the parish council that will link the new community at Shinfield West with the existing village centre. North Wokingham will have a community centre next to the primary school in Matthewsgreen. The planning application has been submitted and will be decided later this year. For South Wokingham a small community centre will be built in the Montague Park development, with a larger centre planned for south of the railway. Sports facilities There will be a new sports hub at Ryeish Green with a new gym, club room and car park, along with a refurbished sports hall (a planning application was approved in June). In the next couple of years there will also be new and improved sports facilities at Cantley Park and then a new sports hub at Grays Farm just south of Wokingham town. The new village at the former
homes across the Borough
In a survey sent out to new homes in the Borough earlier this year, 84 per cent of residents said they're happy with their new homes. They said they generally feel safe in their new neighbourhoods, find the homes and streets attractive with enough public and open spaces, the layout of their homes convenient,and well insulated.
Executive view Cllr David Lee, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Strategic Planning and Highways "We envisaged our major developments to be 'infrastructure rich' and this is what we're now seeing with schools opening, new roads under construction, sports pitches being used, and leisure and community centres on the way. Great benefits to the Borough now, and for future generations."
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Optalis is dedicated to ensuring the people we care for have the best possible experience. So we make sure our Optalis colleagues know as much as possible about the conditions affecting our customers.
Jordan's story... Jordan is a young man with autism and a learning disability. Jordan would at times become overwhelmed when faced with busy and noisy places. He found it hard to understand information people were giving him and could not communicate how he was feeling and what he wanted. When faced with these situations, Jordan would become very distressed.
Raising funds Optalis staff, friends and customers took part in a range of fundraising activities during National Autism Week, including the Optalis annual charity quiz. Proceeds went to local autism charity, ASD Family Help. A cheque for ÂŁ350 was presented at an ASD Family Help Coffee Morning. Cathy Roberts, founder of the charity said: "Thank you for supporting us. Our members will benefit fully from this money. It will be used to help carers of autistic people feel less isolated."
When he attended an Optalis learning disability day service, the team worked hard to understand Jordan and help him to enjoy his time there. This involved staff building a good rapport with Jordan to help him trust them, as they developed an understanding of how he expressed himself. Jordan learnt relaxation techniques to use when anxious. The team discovered the times of the day and activities that Jordan found particularly difficult to cope with. By using substitute activities and changing the order events happened, Jordan understood his day better. Regular routines have also helped his environment to be more predictable. When asked about his time at the day service, Jordan said: "It's been my pleasure".
"Celebrating Autism Awareness Week was an ideal opportunity to share best practice and do something to change lives for the better" Customer Experience Champion Jodie Reichelt Raising awareness Optalis HQ held a workshop giving colleagues a chance to discuss, learn and reflect on their understanding of autism. A training session was also held for staff who work in Optalis Day Services.
Find out more about Optalis at: www.optalis.gov.uk
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Think about your future
Many of us put off thinking about what plans we have for our later years if we develop additional care needs and become frailer. Sometimes people think the only choice they have is to stay in their own home, which they may be struggling with, or move to a residential care home. Now there is another choice - Extra Care. Extra Care helps you remain as independent as possible in your own home, while having the reassurance and convenience of an on-site care service. Your individual care and support needs will be assessed and a care service developed with you; personalised to your requirements. If your needs change, your care package can and will be adjusted. This gives an option to people who want to continue living independently, but would benefit from having 24/7 support if needed. Wokingham Borough has two new purpose-built Extra Care developments due to open this October: The Birches run by Housing Solutions, and Fosters run by Loddon Homes. Optalis will provide their care and support, and both are in Woodley near to the shopping centre and local amenities. The Birches The Birches will offer 60 one and two-bedroom apartments for sale under shared ownership, and for rent. These contemporary apartments will give residents the freedom to live independently with the peace of mind that 24-hour care and support is always there if needed. Benefitting from an on-site café, hair salon, community lounge and other communal facilities, it is the ideal place for older people looking for both comfort and independence. More information • (01628) 543181 • thebirches@housingsolutions.co.uk Fosters Fosters will offer 34 one-bedroom apartments for rent, including some that are completely wheelchair accessible with adjustable height kitchens. The scheme has been designed to be dementia-friendly, and will provide quality affordable housing together with the reassurance of a 24/7 on-site care and support service. There are places to get together and socialise in the two comfortable communal lounges with tea bars, an open courtyard, a café and dining area, and landscaped gardens. More information • (0118) 974 6760 • housing.needs@wokingham.gov.uk
Interested in working at The Birches or Fosters? Please call (0118) 977 8600 or visit: www.optalis.org/jobs
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Outreach for Wokingham carers The Wokingham Outreach Carers Service provides a range of support and services to unpaid carers and their families across the Borough.
Are you or is someone you know providing muchneeded care for a loved one? If you are looking after someone, whether it is an adult or a child who fits into one or more of the following examples, then the Carers Outreach Service may be able to help you: Elderly and frail Physically disabled Learning disability Mental health difficulties Substance misuse difficulties Long term health condition Sensory impairment
• • • • • • •
The Carers Outreach Service provides free personalised support for you to make your caring role easier. The types of support available include: Information, advice and guidance Support to complete benefits forms Signposting to other local organisations Short break accommodation Carers support groups Free access to local leisure, health and wellbeing facilities • Free training • Carers breaks • Carers grants • • • • • •
More information • (0118) 324 7333 • ask@berkshirecarershub.org
Support for young carers If you are a young carer and need advice or just someone to talk to, in confidence, call Berkshire Carers Hub on (0118) 324 7333 or email: ask@ berkshirecarershub.org
Information, advice and emotional support Act as advocates for the young carer Liaise with schools so teachers can better support young carers • Help young carers use local services Help lift someone to help them get around or • Provide opportunities for young carers to take a help them wash, go to the toilet or get dressed break Look after a brother or sister, and make sure they • Help the family to find the support they need, are safe and are entitled to, to help reduce a young Cheer someone up, or support them, when they carer’s responsibilities are feeling down Help care for someone by doing the cooking, or More information housework, or other jobs at home • (0118) 324 7333 Interpret for someone, or help them • ask@berkshirecarershub.org communicate
You are not alone. There are thousands of other young people like you who care for someone in their family. Young carers often have to: • • • • •
The Wokingham Young Carers Project offers a flexible, focused approach, working with all the family to reduce a young carer's role. It can offer:
If you're a young carer, juggling all your responsibilities may be difficult, and it can be hard to find time for homework, activities after school, or friends.
• • •
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Meet the Mayor Cllr Rob Stanton has been elected Wokingham Borough Mayor for this municipal year, officially becoming the 'first citizen' of the Borough. His is a civic role representing the Council and the people of the Borough, as well as at Borough Council meetings. Unless Her Majesty the Queen or her representative is present, the Mayor takes precedence over all other dignitaries attending events. The Mayor traditionally chooses a charity to benefit from fundraising during their year in office. This year Cllr Stanton has chosen to support the Royal Berkshire Hospital Cancer Care Unit, and Dingley's Promise. "To be considered the first citizen is an amazing privilege and I will do my best to honour that status," he said. "The Royal Berkshire Hospital Cancer Care Unit treated me for cancer and many Wokingham Borough residents. We all know how hard it is for the NHS to have enough funding, and I want to show our support for the excellent work they do. I also intend to set up a voluntary cancer champion group to support patients when they are discharged from hospital. "The second charity is Dingley's Promise that supports children with special educational needs, and aims to give them the best possible start in life."
Listen up‌
Are you a good listener who could spare some time helping local people? If so, being a Community Navigator could be for you.
VOLUNTEERS
WANTED
Community Navigators are volunteers who provide a friendly face, listening ear, and a guiding hand to help people find activities, services or support to benefit them. There are already navigators cross the Borough helping members of our community improve their health, wellbeing, social connectivity and much more. As the scheme is growing, the team needs more people to join so they can cover more of the Borough and help more people. You'd be part of a team working with people to identify their needs, and then signpost them to appropriate sources of help in their communities. You'd receive training and support needed to fulfil the role. For more information about becoming a Community Navigator please contact Community Navigator Coordinator, Marie Johnson-Hall, on (01344) 304 404 or email: marie.johnson-hall@involve.community
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Civil parking enforcement We've now officially submitted our application to the Department of Transport (DfT) for new powers to introduce civil parking enforcement (CPE) across the Wokingham Borough by the end of this year. At the time of going to print, our Executive was due in June to discuss the recent consultation into our new map-based Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) for our website. These visual TROs replace the old style written documents to be easier and quicker to understand. We have now appointed a contractor to carry out enforcement on our behalf. This company will also co-ordinate parking permits for us, penalties (fines), and oversee our appeals process which is being designed to be transparent. The police currently enforce parking breaches, so CPE means we take this over. It covers double and single yellow lines, loading restrictions, double parking or parking across dropped kerbs, parking in a residents' parking zone without a permit, and overstaying in time-limited bays. CPE will give us the muscle to tackle congestion and improve road safety and parking fairness for everyone. Many local people and businesses already think we have CPE powers. Thames Valley Police supports our move to take on CPE because it will bring the Wokingham Borough in line with other Thames Valley councils.
Planning applications for major roads Thank you to everyone who came to our two exhibitions last month (June), showing the planning applications for the Arborfield Cross Relief Road (ACRR) and the next phase of the South Wokingham Distributor Road (SWDR) called the Eastern Gateway. The feedback you gave us during both exhibitions is being summarised to be included in the Statement of Community Engagement documents submitted as part of the planning applications. At the time of going to print, the planning application for the ACRR was due to be submitted late June / early July. The SWDR planning application is due to be submitted this autumn. If you want to make formal feedback into the two schemes, to be considered by the planners, this must be done during the four-week statutory consultation after the planning applications have been submitted. You can search for the planning applications once submitted on the planning portal of our website at: www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'planning applications').
We will let you know when both applications have been submitted, and their reference numbers, on the news section of our website and our social media platforms. Please remember feedback made during this consultation period will not receive a written response from us. More information www.wokingham.gov.uk (search for 'Arborfield Cross Relief Road' or 'South Wokingham Distributer Road')
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Application received Yes
Road space available
No
Have the right temporary lights, lane closures or diversions been planned?
No
Application refused
Yes Are parallel roads clear of roadworks? Have public transport alternatives been considered?
Yes Application granted
Did you know? During the past year… • We've resurfaced nearly 8km of roads across the Borough • And filled 2,075 potholes
Planning roadworks The diagram shows the checklist we go through to plan roadworks on the Borough's roads. New work by our contractors and utility companies is generally protected by a Section 58 legal notice. This notice stops roads that have just been resurfaced or reconstructed from being dug up for five years, except in emergencies such as a burst water main. When emergency work is needed, and it conflicts with current roadworks nearby, we try and reschedule the current work until the emergency repairs are finished. We also hold regular co-ordination meetings with utility companies, emergency services, public transport firms, highway contractors, and developers to discuss and plan future projects and events.
Get wise about traffic Plan your journeys and keep up-to-date about road closures, temporary lights, incidents and traffic jams at: www.roadworks.org
Executive view Cllr Chris Bowring, Executive Member for Highways and Transport "Our Borough already has one of the highest car ownership rates in the country, and this is increasing. And our busy roads feed into major regional strategic routes. This is why we're investing in new roads and sustainable travel, while also making sure our existing road network is well maintained."
From your smart phone, tablet or computer you can find it via our website in the 'current roadworks' section. You can see why work is being done, and by whom. You can also get current information, as well as future dates set by you in the search box. The latest traffic conditions across the Borough are also available by signing up to our text and email alerts at: www.wokingham.gov.uk/signup
To advertise in Wokingham Borough News, please email:
communications@wokingham.gov.uk
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Be BBQ safe this summer A barbecue should be safe and enjoyable, but it's easy to get distracted with friends and family around you: Charcoal barbecues • Use only enough charcoal to cover the base to a depth of 50mm (two inches) • Use recognised fire lighters / starter fuel (not petrol) and only on cold coals • Never put hot ashes straight into a dustbin or wheelie-bin Gas barbecues • Make sure the tap is off before changing the gas cylinder • Change cylinders outdoors, if possible, or in a wellventilated area • If you suspect a leak (cylinder or pipes), brush soapy water around the joints and watch for bubbles - tighten to fix but don't overdo it • After cooking turn off the gas cylinder first, then at the controls, so gas in the pipe is used up
Twinning with Cuincy Twyford has expressed a serious interest in twinning with Cuincy in northern France. Twyford Parish Council was approached by the Cuincy twinning project nearly a year ago. Cuincy is a city of 7,000 people, close to Lens and Lille. Enthusiastic volunteers and representatives from local organisations have set up a Twinning committee with the support of Twyford Parish Council. They will help co-ordinate cultural and sporting exchanges and develop the relationship between Twyford and Cuincy. It is hoped to have plans in place for the centenary celebrations of the end of the First World War in 2018, as there is a British cemetery in Cuincy. You can find out more about the project by visiting: www.twyfordparishcouncil.gov.uk or email: twinning@twyfordparishcouncil.gov.uk
General safety • Make sure your barbecue is in good working order • Ensure it is on a flat site well away from a shed, trees, or shrubs • Keep children, garden games, and pets, well away from the cooking area • Never leave the barbecue unattended • Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies • Ensure the barbecue is cool before moving it
Animal Agents - Summer Reading Challenge Animal Agents will be super sleuthing alongside young readers in our libraries as part of our Summer Reading Challenge. This band of furry, slippery and feathered friends is specially trained to use their skills and natural instincts to unravel mysteries, with a huge helping of fun along the way. It's fun and free, and you can sign up at any of our libraries until September 3. Just read six library books and collect a wallet and stickers as you go. Collect a medal and a certificate when you complete the challenge. There will be lots of Animal Agents events at libraries this summer.