Wyre Voice Spring 2016

Wyre Voice

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Wyre Council’s Community Magazine

voice

g n i r Sp 6 1 0 2 When you have finished reading we thismake magazine please recycle it in your blue bin Together a difference

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Wyre Voice

Contents 3

Your Wyre

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Focus on Poulton

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Wyre weddings

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Garden waste

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Focus on Thornton

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Make a difference

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Focus on Garstang

and Rural Wyre

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Wyre Sports Awards

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Care and Repair

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Foreword Welcome to the latest edition of Wyre Voice.

Residents will be aware that Wyre Council, with Government support, has frozen its share of the council tax for the last five years.

In 2016/17 there is no freeze grant on offer and both the Government and the Office of Budget Responsibility initially assumed that councils would raise council tax by 1.75%.

The Government has since suggested that it can be raised by £5 per year, but we’ve decided to stay with 1.75% to keep the increase low and in order to continue providing Wyre’s vital front line services. It means an increase for a band D property of £3.15 per year or 6p per week.

We will also continue to negotiate improved community facilities while at the same time making the most of our assets, resulting in a better deal for the council tax payer.

Business creation and expansion is massively important to Wyre and we have an excellent record in supporting Wyred Up for business.

The idea behind this network is that we bring businesses together to buy from each other and as their businesses grow, they then employ more people in the local economy who spend their wages locally.

A simple concept but one that works.

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Focus on Fleetwood We have worked closely with Natural Energy Wyre on their plans to build a barrage over the River Wyre to provide clean, sustainable energy.

Healthy Wyre Just recently Wyre, along with our partners, has secured an Enterprise Zone based in Thornton which has the potential to bring many jobs to the area.

Business matters

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Council Tax

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Keep in touch

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Wyre theatres

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It is vital that we work with businesses and with other local authorities, which we will continue to do. However it is clear that another layer of local government as represented by a Combined Authority is not needed and in these difficult times the last thing our residents need is a further financial burden.

Councillor Peter Gibson Leader, Wyre Council Your council newsletter

Your Wyre

Wyre Voice

Together we make a difference

Make a difference every day

Councillor Vivien Taylor, Wyre’s Health and Community Engagement Portfolio Holder, through her work as a councillor for the borough and county knows all too well the difference local people can make to their area.

vigilant when out and about. There’s

For 2016 she wants to encourage all residents young and old to follow the example of those people who have got involved and whose ideas and actions are helping to make positive changes, not only for their community but also for themselves.

There are many ways residents can be involved from responding to consultations about services, speaking with a local councillor, volunteering and getting involved in the youth council through to reporting issues affecting neighbourhoods.

“Depending on what your interests are, how much time you have and how much or little you want to get involved, there are lots of ways you can make a difference. Let’s make 2016 the year when we collaborate and start getting involved.

“The council’s vision is ‘Together We Make A Difference’ and despite reduced government funding we are determined to achieve this – so we need everyone to do their bit.”

Councillor Taylor

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• We encourage people to be a quick and easy way to report issues in your neighbourhood online at wyre.gov.uk/reportit • Have your say in consultations and surveys at wyre.gov.uk/consult and events across the borough.

• Join our 10,000+ followers on Twitter and Facebook in the conversation of the day.

• Talk to your local councillors about issues affecting you. Find out how to get in touch at wyre.gov.uk/councillors • Volunteer in one of many roles that bring personal and community benefits. Turn to page 10 to find out more.

• Get involved in a local community group or charity. From friends groups to Wyre Pensioners Forum, there’s something to suit everyone.

• Shop local to support local businesses and help Wyre’s economy thrive.

• Sign up for Wyre Voice monthly e-newsletter to stay up to date with what’s going on at wyre.gov.uk/register • Get out and about in Wyre at the many events and shows on offer.

Together we make a difference

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Focus on

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New junior playground at Jean Stansfield Park The Friends of Jean Stansfield Park have worked with the council using a £5,000 grant from Wyre’s Shaping Your Neighbourhood scheme to effectively replace the junior playground with new equipment. This work is the latest in a series of improvements to the park in a bid to encourage more local children to use and enjoy the facilities.

The park has also retained its Green Flag Award from Keep Britain Tidy for three years running. wyre.gov.uk/parks

He added: “Not carrying an extra three stone around means that I have less aches and pains on an everyday basis and I have significantly lowered my previously high blood pressure.”

For more incentives to be active go to ymcayactive.org

Blooming again Poulton In Bloom is aiming to wow the Britain in Bloom judges in 2016 after a number of years in hibernation - and everyone in the town is being urged to do their bit.

Carol Woolley, head of the latest bid said:

Councillor hits health goals at YMCA Poulton The recently refurbished, state of the art YMCA Health and Fitness Centre in Poulton is growing in membership numbers as fast as its current members are losing weight.

Councillor Peter Murphy has just reached an ambitious target of losing three stones by working with YMCA personal trainer Stewart Pugh at the Poulton gym (pictured top right). Councillor Murphy said: “My original target was reached prior to Christmas. This is not just weight loss but a complete re-shaping of my body. I’ve got muscles now where I can’t remember them being in my youth!”

“A dedicated team of 12 members plant and care for several large flower beds in Poulton town centre. They also encourage the sponsorship of barrels, barrier boxes, lamp post baskets and manger baskets that are filled with blooms throughout the summer. Over the years we have attained several gold medals for Best Town and Best Station in North West In Bloom.”

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Should anybody wish to join in please ring Carol Woolley on 01253 884888.

Cracking

Poulton

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Easter treatments at Spa on the Breck As a special offer during the Easter break, Spa on the Breck is giving you the opportunity to rejuvenate and revitalise with an Aromatic Anti-Stress Massage at a discounted price of £35 (normally £50).

The Aromatic Massage is a personalised journey to inner calm using a customised blend of aromatherapy oils to meet your needs. Check out spaonthebreck.co.uk for further information or call 01253 891629.

More choice for shoppers The new Booths store at the Teanlowe Centre was opened in front of hundreds of shoppers in November and has been welcomed by many residents and visitors alike. The supermarket will soon be complemented by a new Lidl outlet on Garstang Road East along with the proposed Aldi store at the site of the old Booths on Ball Street.

This increase in large brand supermarket provision will ensure that locals can obtain lower prices, better value and greater choice in the near future. This recent increase in investment from major retailers shows that Poulton is viewed as a growing, vibrant area to do business.

Find out what’s happening in Wyre and join the conversation on our Facebook page at facebook.com/wyrecouncil

Upcoming Events Saturday 4 June

Poulton Gala

Together we make a difference

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Wyre Voice

Wyre weddings

Did you know that Wyre Council has three great locations to choose between if you are planning a wedding in Wyre?

Marine Hall, Fleetwood

Wyre Civic Centre, Poulton Wyre Civic Centre is a great setting for photos with the backdrop of the mock Tudor building and large lawned gardens.

Ceremonies can be intimate or can accommodate up to 80 guests for the ceremony, with an optional celebration drinks service and a wedding co-ordinator on hand to help out.

One recent happy couple to tie the knot at the Civic Centre was Angela and Neil Latham, of Thornton.

“We would like to thank Wyre Civic Centre for all their help making our wedding day a very special occasion. The room was lovely and our photos are fantastic, especially within the grounds. We could not have picked a better place for our special day with our family and friends, who also commented on the choice of venue, how professional everything was and what a great place it is for anyone to get married”.

Marine Hall’s ballroom can cater for up to 500 guests under the impressive Art Deco glass dome with the added bonus of a seaside location. Full service catering and evening parties can also be arranged.

Thornton Little Theatre, Thornton Cleveleys

Thornton Little Theatre can cater for up to 120 people and events can be themed to create your dream wedding.

Whatever type of ceremony or celebration you are looking for, we have a venue to suit.

For more information visit wyre.gov.uk/weddings Your council newsletter wyre.gov.uk/weddings

Garden waste services

Changes to garden waste services don’t be left out!

Since 1999 Wyre has been able to provide free garden waste collections across the borough. However, as with many areas of the country, we have been forced to change how we operate and take the difficult decision to introduce a small subscription charge for the service from 1 May 2016.

We do recognise that the service is popular, but some households do not use it and charging those who do is the fairest option to recoup a portion of a £1 million deficit we face following the withdrawal of funding towards the green waste and recycling service by Lancashire County Council (LCC).

At the equivalent of only £1.36 per collection, we believe that the £30 annual fee per bin for fortnightly collections provides excellent value for money and is competitive compared to the range of charges by other local authorities.

Additional bins will be collected at the discounted price of £25.

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only accept garden waste.

Food waste should now be placed in your grey bin or composted at home.

For hints and tips on saving money and reducing food waste go to lovefoodhatewaste.com If you do not wish to subscribe to the garden waste service, you can either compost your garden waste at home or take it to one of the borough’s Household Waste Recycling Centres.

We’ve made it quick and easy to subscribe online and you’ll find more information and FAQs at wyre.gov.uk/greenwaste If you subscribe by 15 April you will still be able to have your green bin collected from the start of the scheme on 1 May without missing any collections.

Please also note that you can no longer place food waste in your green bin.

LCC has made changes to the process. The indoor composting facilities (required for mixed food and garden waste) used

by LCC are closing and the outdoor composting facilities that will be used Together we make a difference Subscribe at wyre.gov.uk/greenwaste

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Wyre Voice

Focus on

Easter at YMCA Thornton

Marsh Mill

Open from 10am to 10pm over the Easter holidays, YMCA Bowl will be offering their popular family hour promotion on selected weekday evenings.

Plus their pin busters special offer will be back – enjoy a game of bowling for just £2 per person between 10am and noon.

Thornton’s much loved Marsh Mill is set to reopen for a new season starting with a grand launch event on Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 March from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

And that’s not all……keep your eyes on the screen and watch out for the lucky train stopping at your station for your chance to win fun prizes. Visit ymcabowl.co.uk for more details.

This spring bring the kids along to YMCA Thornton’s Holiday Club and Sports Camp.

Available over the Easter holidays from 8.30am – 4.30pm, children aged between 8 and 12 can enjoy skate board coaching, squash, 10 pin bowling plus a host of other fun activities. The holiday club costs £17.50 per day for non-members and £15.50 for members and a packed lunch is required.

For more information visit ymcayactive.org

Enjoy an insight into milling of a bygone age and see the sails of the 70ft tower mill turn following a recent £320,000 renovation. It’s a great opportunity to take a look around the mill and see the original machinery at work.

There will be guided tours throughout the day plus fun craft activities for the kids to enjoy.

Marsh Mill will be open every Saturday and Sunday from 10.30am – 4.30pm until the beginning of November, with an ongoing programme of events, plus children’s activities during the school holidays.

Economic boost for Wyre Hillhouse Business Park in Thornton Cleveleys is set to become an Enterprise Zone. £12 billion of funding has been pledged by the Government for 26 new or extended Enterprise Zones across the country, which means Hillhouse will receive investment worth millions and government support to expand.

Open 10am – 10pm throughout the school holidays airskate.co.uk

Councillor Peter Murphy, Cabinet member with responsibility for economic development at Wyre Council, said: “This is absolutely fantastic news for the borough and gives us a focus for attracting

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Thornton Cleveleys new businesses, reducing unemployment and driving forward growth.

“Wyre’s mantra is that we are business friendly and we look at everything we do from the viewpoint of attracting enterprise.

This is a massive incentive to invest in Wyre and could potentially create thousands of jobs.”

Hillhouse is located on the site of the former ICI manufacturing plant and is home to over 40 businesses.

As an Enterprise Zone, it will seek to build on its chemical and polymer industries, as well as targeting firms within the wider energy and advanced manufacturing sectors, and will receive benefits including reduced business rates.

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Upcoming Events

5 June Cleveleys Classic Car Show 11-12 June Thornton Cleveleys Gala 31 July Wyre Estuary Country Park Open Day

Life’s good at Wyre Estuary Country Park Spring is a great time to enjoy a visit to Wyre Estuary Country Park, with both flora and fauna bursting to life. Our countryside rangers at the park say now is the perfect time to spot teal feeding quietly in the creeks on the Wyre Estuary, to listen out for the first of the warblers such as chiffchaff arriving back on their spring migration from Africa and to see spring wildflowers such as primroses and wild garlic in the hedgerows.

Get out into the great outdoors and see what wildlife you can find.

We’d love to see too - upload your photos to Instagram using the hashtag #WyreWildlife The Wyreside café at the park has also enjoyed a recent refurbishment and is now open for business. We’ve extended the premises to provide more space for customers so pop in for a coffee next time you visit the park.

The bid for Enterprise Zone status was supported by Wyre Council, Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, Lancashire County Council, NPL Estates and the Blackpool, Wyre and Fylde Economic Development Company.

For further information visit bfwedc.co.uk Together we make a difference

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Wyre Voice

Together we

Volunteering makes you happy!*

Here are some of the roles you can apply for, whether you have an hour or a whole weekend to spare:

Would you like to take up a hobby and make new friends? Learn different skills and gain work experience?

• Coast and countryside rangers • Lead guided walks • Usher audiences at Wyre’s theatres • Monitor CCTV cameras • Wildlife conservation • Welcome visitors at tourist information centres • Gardening maintenance in our parks • Historical research at Fleetwood’s Memorial Park

What if we said you could do all these things and really make a difference in your community at the same time?

Interested in putting your spare time to good use? Hop on board Wyre’s i-bus which travels to venues across the borough helping people find their perfect role.

Wyre relies on its dedicated volunteers to provide vital services that make a difference to people across the borough on a daily basis. From helping to keep neighbourhoods safe by monitoring CCTV cameras to conserving our coast and countryside for all to enjoy, communities and the council are coming together as a formidable team.

Becoming a volunteer has some great benefits for you too: • Discounted YMCA membership • Online training from our digital champion • References and employment support • New opportunities to socialise • Health benefits for body and mind • Skills training and further education • Work as little or as often as you like at times that suit you • Experience Wyre’s wonderful outdoors

“Volunteering is a great way to make friends and learn new skills, as well as enhancing your CV. It is also highly rewarding giving something back to your local community. We have a wide range of volunteer opportunities throughout the council as well as some new roles for 2016”.

Simon Swindells, Wyre Council’s Volunteer Co-Ordinator. Visit wyre.gov.uk/volunteer or call 01253 887504 to get involved. *Volunteer: A structured form of social contact based around being nice makes us happiest of all. Taken from Happiness by Design by Professor Paul Dolan.

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make a difference

Ann Richardson Volunteer Coast and Countryside Ranger Ann is a familiar and friendly face at Rossall Point Observation Tower. She tells Wyre Voice why she loves volunteering.

“I started volunteering because I love the coast and I wanted to remain active in my retirement.

Working at the tower lets me combine the two: I get to walk along the seafront and experience a different scene every day.

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“Volunteers meet at the tower at 10am on the first Thursday of every month to litter pick the beach as part of the LOVEmyBEACH campaign. We’re a hardy bunch who turn out in all weathers to take care of our beach, and we’re always on the lookout for new members.

“We can fill 20-30 bags with litter in only a couple of hours and it is so satisfying to see the beach looking clean and empty afterwards.

And there’s always a brew and a biscuit when we finish!

“On a different day I could be repairing fencing, clearing boardwalks or monitoring the dunes, which are home to thousands of native plants.

“I volunteer as much for myself as I do for the environment. It’s rather nice to make where you live look better and the social side has been wonderful, I’ve made a whole new group of friends.

Ann (second from the right) with fellow volunteers

“We get lots of different people visiting the tower - family groups, dog walkers, birdwatchers - and it’s great to talk to them. I particularly enjoy enthusing youngsters about wildlife and the coast.

“I’d encourage everyone to look into volunteering, whether you’re retired or not.

“There is so much you can do and you can choose to work at a time that suits you. The secret is to find something you really enjoy then coming to work is always enjoyable!”

wyre.gov.uk/volunteer Together we make a difference

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Focus on Garstang

Wyre Voice

Villages recover from flooding

Around 100 homes and businesses were flooded in St Michael’s, Churchtown and Garstang during December as extremely heavy rainfall caused drainage systems to become overwhelmed and rivers to overflow.

We were part of a multi-agency response to help those affected in returning to their homes and livelihoods, providing practical assistance on the ground and administering financial support.

Work to protect against flooding continues; together with the Environment Agency and parish councils we’re forming local action groups with residents to help them prepare for future flooding. This includes taking measures now to protect homes with flood resilience equipment and putting a community plan in place should another incident occur.

If you wish to join a flood group email engineering@wyrecouncil or call 01253 891000.

“The Environment Agency has temporarily repaired the breach to the flood embankment on the River Brock near St Michael’s and continues to monitor the repairs and local river levels closely while we identify a permanent fix. If river levels reach a trigger point, we will deploy temporary defences to reduce the risk of flooding to local properties.

“At the time of writing we are in the process of securing emergency funding to complete permanent repairs and are hoping to have started work by the time you read this.

Longer term, we have brought forward a planned review of flood defences on the upper and middle Wyre, including flood storage basins at Garstang and Catterall, to understand what improvements may be required moving forward.

“In Churchtown, our engineers are currently investigating the causes and extent of the flooding in the village to understand how we can better manage flood risk in the future”.

Debbie Peppert, Environment Agency Team Leader in Lancashire Find out how you can be prepared for flooding at wyre.gov.uk/flooding

A Royal visit Prince Harry visited St Michael’s in February to see the devastating impact of the flooding and find out about efforts to help the village recover. Here he is talking to one of the community’s long-standing residents, Winnie Hodgson, 97.

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and Rural Wyre Garstang Walking Festival

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UR Potential upcycle bike project

Saturday 7 – Sunday 15 May

This year’s festival is themed around Ridges, Rivers and Rural Pastures. Walkers will be able to experience the best of spring time in the countryside around Garstang, the Forest of Bowland and the Fylde plain. Enjoy bluebell woodlands, wildlife, upland views, local history and also explore to the west of Bowland, the wetlands and the coast.

There are 50+ walks for all abilities throughout the week. The festival is co-ordinated by the Friends of Garstang Walking Festival supported Photo courtesy of Mike Coleran

by Wyre Council. wyre.gov.uk/garstangwalkingfestival

Scorton multi-use games area A £3,000 grant from Wyre’s Shaping Your Neighbourhood (SYN) scheme has helped to create a new multi-use games area in Scorton. The games area is progressing extremely well, the tarmacadam surface has been laid and the fencing is all erected and complete.

Annie Collinson from the project says: “At the time of writing we are awaiting the final surface finish which is due within the next two weeks. We are very much looking forward to its completion and first use.”

£4,056 from a SYN grant enabled UR Potential youth workers and bike maintenance team to work in partnership with St Aiden’s School at Preesall and the local community to deliver this exciting scheme.

The project targeted young people aged 13-19 with a view to help increase fitness and reduce childhood obesity as well as giving them the opportunity to learn and develop transferable skills such as team work and communication in addition to building their self-esteem and confidence.

Upcoming Events

7-15 May Garstang Walking Festival 30 May Garstang Children’s Festival 16-17 July Great Eccleston Show 6 August Garstang Show 22 - 29 August Garstang Arts and Music Festival

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Wyre Voice

Wyre Sports Awards

Nominate now for the Wyre Sports Awards

Categories

Does your sports club have an inspirational coach, volunteer or young achiever who deserves some recognition? If so nominate them in the Wyre Sports Awards 2016!

The awards recognise and reward people who have made a significant impact on sport in the borough both through performance as well as volunteering.

All the winners will represent Wyre in a bid to be named best in the county at the annual Lancashire Sports Awards.

Adult Volunteer of the Year Coach of the Year Community Club of the Year Lifetime Achievement Service to Disability Sport Young Volunteer of the Year Young Achiever of the Year Primary School of the Year Secondary School of the Year To nominate visit wyre.gov.uk/sportsawards

We want clubs, coaches, players, parents, schoolteachers and friends to nominate someone who you feel deserves to be recognised for their efforts in sport and activity over the last year.

The deadline to nominate is Friday 15 July.

Photo courtesy of Mike Coleran

Get outdoors this spring Experience the beauty of Wyre’s coast and countryside this spring with our health walks that are free to join and take place regularly across the borough.

Perfect for beginners and anyone wishing to improve their general health and fitness, they are also a great way to meet people and explore your local area.

Walks are free of charge, take approximately one hour and everyone is welcome.

Photo courtesy of Mike Coleran

Join in our regular guided walks or download the routes to enjoy at your leisure at wyre.gov.uk/healthwalks Your council newsletter

Care and Repair

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Helping to improve homes and lives Care and Repair is a service covering Wyre and Fylde, offering free advice, support and help to both the over 60s and disabled people in carrying out repairs, improvements, maintenance and adaptations to their homes.

We give advice and assistance to obtain quotations from reliable and trustworthy contractors and arrange for the work to be done from start to completion. We can sometimes support clients to obtain financial help in paying for the work by way of charitable or benevolent assistance. Whilst our advice is free, charges do apply for some aspects of this service.

Our team can also help identify benefits entitlement and assist with form filling to claim Attendance Allowance or Personal Independence Payments (PIP).

Care and Repair includes a handyperson service offering help with small jobs around the home to prevent the risk of accidents.

1528 handyperson jobs were carried out by the Care and Repair team in Wyre and Fylde in 2014/15 and 98% of people were assisted to remain living in their own homes.

This includes tasks such as replacing light bulbs, making safe loose carpeting, fitting smoke alarms and batteries and lesser security measures such as door chains and viewers. We can also undertake minor repairs that would not be viable for a contractor to carry out. There is a small charge for this service.

A range of adaptation works can be carried out including installation of grab rails, key safes and other equipment, on referral from Social Services. We can also supply and fit these items of equipment more quickly for people who wish to pay themselves.

If work required is beyond the scope of our handyperson service, or outside the eligibility criteria, we can provide details of reliable tradesmen from our approved list.

To get in touch with Care and Repair please call 01253 887569 and one of our team will be happy to help.

You can also email careandrepair@wyre.gov.uk

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Focus on

Wyre Voice

New gym at YMCA Fleetwood

Rossall sea defences

Following investment of £134,000 YMCA Fleetwood is now the home of brand new purpose built health and fitness facilities with the latest state of the art cardio, resistance, free weights and functional training equipment.

We’re replacing sea defences from Rossall Hospital to Rossall Point in a £63m scheme that will protect Beach access steps being installed 7,500 properties from the risk of coastal flooding.

Connect to your workout See results, track progress and achieve your potential at home, in the gym and on the go with LFConnect web and mobile app technology.

Get in the zone Multiple stations integrated into the Synergy Zone rig system allow motivational group personal training sessions (pictured below).

The world is your workout Immerse yourself in interactive, high-definition hikes, runs and bikes through locations around the world with the latest generation of Life Fitness cardio equipment. ymcayactive.org Full membership Access all YMCAs from just £25 per month or pay as you go

This part of the coastline is subjected to some of the highest waves and currents on the Fylde Coast, and the new defences have been designed to withstand the exposed environment.

We’re building a lower rock revetment at the base to break the waves and weather the harsh conditions. Above the rock revetment and just above mean high water lies a summer promenade followed by a stepped upper revetment made using specially manufactured precast concrete.

The promenade at the top will look similar in design to Cleveleys.

To find out more call into the information cabin on West Way which is open Monday to Friday, 7.30am to 5.30pm or visit fyldecoastalprogramme.co.uk

Upcoming Events 18 June 17 July 13 August

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Fleetwood Carnival Fleetwood Tram Sunday 999 Bath Race, Fleetwood Boating Lake

Fleetwood

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Community venue for hire at Memorial Park Fleetwood’s Memorial Park has been restored to its original 1920s landscape and the pavilion, which has previously served as a tennis pavilion, Second World War stretcher depot and children’s library, has been transformed into a new community hub.

The newly refurbished building can be hired for meetings, community projects, events and parties. It has a kitchen, fridge and tea and coffee making facilities.

Hire charges:

Full day - £50 Half day - £30 Evening (after 5pm) - £40

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wheatears and sand martins and sea/shore wading birds like knots and oyster catchers.

And there’s always the possibility of spotting some of Rossall Point’s more elusive visitors such as grey seals, dolphins and porpoises. You’ll need your binoculars though! wyre.gov.uk/rossallpoint Opening times from Easter: Wednesday to Sunday - 11am to 4pm (and bank holidays) Share your Wyre wildlife photos on Instagram using the hashtag #WyreWildlife

Reviving The Mount We’re reviving an iconic Fleetwood landmark as we return The Mount to its original design.

The seaward side of the Grade II registered gardens is being restored to its 19th century design, starting with the return of the cast iron railings that topped the esplanade wall which were removed in 1942 for the Second World War.

To arrange a visit or make a booking email parks@wyre.gov.uk or call 01253 891000.

Find out more and sign up for e-news about Memorial Park at wyre.gov.uk/memorialpark

Visit the coast this spring Rossall Point Observation Tower is the perfect place to see wildlife this spring.

Look out for land based birds such as

The new railings (pictured) are being specially made to replicate the ornamental pattern of the original Victorian design. We’re also repairing the pathways, restoring the shelters and adding heritage benches.

Work is due to finish in summer.

Find out more and sign up for e-news about The Mount at wyre.gov.uk/themount

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Wyre Voice

Healthy Wyre

Community Health Hub takes shape

Wyre is continuing to play its part in improving health by focussing on early intervention of health issues, prioritising prevention rather than cure.

Dr Tony Naughton, NHS Fylde and Wyre CCG clinical chief officer, said: “Patients at Lockwood will be pleased to enjoy fantastic new facilities when accessing their local GP practice at a building that is just 100 yards away from their old surgery.

“This move is part of a wider appraisal the CCG is conducting of all NHS property in Fylde and Wyre to make sure all our buildings meet the needs of our ambitious plans to improve healthcare in the decades to come.”

New technology to help GPs on the move The wellbeing of our communities is one of our key priorities and we’re working closely with NHS Fylde and Wyre Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to provide an integrated community hub for residents to access vital services, such as health care, debt relief and care and repair, all under one roof.

The Lockwood Avenue Surgery relocation to the Civic Centre in Poulton is well under way and we will continue to look to pool resources to ensure much greater impact than before.

Work to transform part of the building into a new home for the surgery is set to be completed in mid-March, with a view to the GP practice relocating the following month.

GPs in the area will be able to see more people in their homes as they become equipped with new tablet computers, allowing them to access patient records electronically.

The move, funded by Fylde and Wyre CCG, will launch initially in their Wyre Integrated Neighbourhood, which includes seven surgeries in Thornton, Poulton, Carleton and Preesall before being rolled out to Fleetwood and other areas.

The move is the CCG’s latest step towards a digital future, having launched a new website and migrated all GP surgeries on to one computer system since being formed in 2012.

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Business matters

Supporting local businesses is important for the local economy. Across Wyre we are lucky to have four fantastic town centres all with something different to offer.

Garstang - traditional high street and lots of independent traders.

Poulton - historic market square, independent retailers and plenty of bars and restaurants.

Cleveleys and Fleetwood - high street shopping by the sea, cafes, Fleetwood Market and promenades on which to enjoy an ice cream and the sea air.

What do town centre retailers think?

In Garstang, Printmob offers a large range of personalised printed products such as t-shirts, and canvasses, most of which are produced at their shop just off Garstang high street.

Owner Luke Pollard says: “We love being part of Garstang town centre, there is a fantastic range of independent shops and services as well as history, the walks, the pubs and restaurants. We hope we can continue to grow our business in our beautiful little town.”

Fredericks has been bringing quality branded menswear to Cleveleys high street for over 27 years. Owner John Prothero commented: “We like to think of ourselves as not just a business but also as part of the community, getting involved with the Cleveleys Car Show and again in 2016 Britain in Bloom”.

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offering discounts to 3000+ cardholders.

Paul commented: “These 100+ partner businesses are working together and supporting each other with the collective aim of boosting the local economy and creating a brighter future for our towns.” shoplocalwbf.co.uk

Funding for Fleetwood Town Centre improvements Improvements to the appearance of Lord Street in Fleetwood are taking place thanks to £10,000 from the Coastal Communities Team. Wyre Council, with the help of volunteers, local businesses and Fleetwood’s strong community spirit has started work on improving the appearance of town centre shops.

Wyre Business Awards Congratulations to all the winners at the Wyre Business Awards, a glittering black tie dinner sponsored by RBS and held at the Marine Hall in Fleetwood.

For a list of winners and photographs visit wyre.gov.uk/businessevents Nominations for the 2016 event will open in the summer.

Northern Rags, a destination designer menswear store, has been in Fleetwood for over five years. Paul Haslem of Northern Rags is also the founder of the Shop Local Scheme which has 100+ local businesses

wyre.gov.uk/businesssupport Together we make a difference

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Council

Wyre Voice

Bills are usually paid in 10 monthly instalments, but you can ask to pay over 12 months.

You must tell us immediately if you have any change of circumstance that might affect the amount of reduction.

Council Tax is charged on most dwellings whether rented or owned, empty or occupied. Each household gets one bill, although occupants may be jointly responsible for payment.

Properties exempt from Council Tax

Each home is placed in a valuation band, A-H, based on the amount it would have sold for on 1 April 1991. The Valuation Office Agency, not the council, allocates a valuation band to every home. The council uses the band to work out your Council Tax bill.

You may be able to appeal against the valuation band if you have moved in during the past six months, or there has been a change in the building or the physical state of the local area which could affect the value of your home.

For more information visit www.voa.gov.uk, write to The Valuation Office Agency, Earle House, Colonial Street, Hull, HU2 8JN, email ctnorth@voa.gsi.gov.uk or call 03000 501 501. You must continue to pay your Council Tax at the same level until a decision has been made about your appeal.

Reducing your Council Tax bill Not everyone has to pay the full amount.

There are several ways to reduce your bill depending on personal circumstances or circumstances relating to the property itself (eg. if empty). Read on for more details.

If we already know about your circumstances, the reduction will be shown on your bill.

We do not charge Council Tax for homes which are lived in only by: • people under the age of 18 • students (including halls of residence) and/or school leavers • people who are severely mentally impaired We do not charge Council Tax for empty properties which are: • owned by charity (exempt for up to six months) • empty because someone has died and the grant of probate or letters of administration have not been obtained, or have only been obtained within the past six months • the responsibility of a trustee following bankruptcy, or a mortgage lender following repossession • empty but usually lived in by:

* a student

* a minister of religion

* a prisoner

* someone who has moved to

receive or provide personal care • empty because the law prevents anyone from living there • not able to be leased separately • part of forces accommodation, including married quarters and temporary accommodation for members of visiting overseas forces

Your council newsletter

Tax

Wyre Voice

21

Discounts

Reductions for annexes

If only one adult lives in a property as their main home, the Council Tax is reduced by 25%. When counting adults, we do not include: • full time students, student nurses, apprentices and youth training trainees • people staying in hospitals, care homes, prisons or certain hostels or night shelters • care workers working for low pay (usually charities) • people caring for someone with a disability who is not their spouse, partner or child under 18 • 18 and 19 year olds who are at school or have just left school • people who are severely mentally impaired • members of visiting forces • members of religious communities (monks and nuns)

There is a 50% reduction for people living in annexes, provided they are related to the person liable for the Council Tax of the main building (or the person who would be liable were it not for an exemption, 100% discount or reduction) and for people living in dwellings with annexes which are unoccupied provided they are using those annexes as part of their main residence.

If after disregarding people in the above classes, there is only one adult living in the property, the Council Tax is reduced by 25%.

Empty property discount If a property is unoccupied because it is in need of, or awaiting major repair or structural alteration, a 25% discount applies for a maximum of 12 months.

If a property is unoccupied and substantially unfurnished, a 100% discount is awarded for one month. Thereafter the full Council Tax charge becomes payable.

A property that is no one’s main home but remains furnished will attract a 100% Council Tax charge.

Disabled Relief Your bill may be reduced if you, or someone who lives with you, has a permanent disability and must have certain features in the home which are essential or of major importance to the disabled person’s wellbeing.

These features include: • a room other than a bathroom, kitchen or toilet which is used mainly by the disabled person • an additional bathroom or kitchen for use by the disabled person • extra space inside your home for use of a wheelchair We may reduce your Council Tax by the equivalent of one valuation band. This applies even if your home is already in band A.

Appeals If you have been refused a discount, exemption or relief, or don’t think you should be paying Council Tax, tell us why you think your bill is incorrect.

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Wyre Voice

We will look at your case again and we might ask for more information. If we do not change our decision and you still don’t agree, you can appeal to the Valuation Tribunal. See valuationtribunal.gov.uk or contact us for details.

You must continue to pay your Council Tax at the same level until a decision has been made about your appeal.

Council Tax support This can be claimed by anyone who is responsible for payment of Council Tax and in receipt of a low income. The amount of council tax support you receive will depend on the income, savings and the circumstances of all those living in the household.

Second adult rebate You may also be able to get help if you are liable to pay Council Tax and you share your home with another adult (who is not your partner) who is on a low income. It does not matter how much income and capital you have. The calculation of how much you are entitled to is based on the income and savings of the second adult or adults that share your home.

Data Protection – Fair Processing Notice For full details of the council’s Fair Processing Notice which explains how we use your personal data and who we share it with, please visit wyre.gov.uk/fairprocessing

For example, your Council Tax records may be used for purposes other than administering Council Tax, such as for the general prevention and detection of fraud.

Your data may also be used as part of the National Fraud Initiative for detecting fraudulent claims for Council Tax support, single person’s discount or undeclared cohabiters for Housing Benefit.

Other organisations which may be supplied with your Council Tax data from time to time are the Department for Work and Pensions, the Valuation Office Agency (to calculate rateable values), landlords, the courts, tribunals and debt collection/tracing agencies employed by the council. Sharing your data in this way will only be carried out when absolutely necessary.

We will also share your information where we have any other legal obligation to do so, or whether we believe by sharing it with other council departments we can provide you with a better standard of service.

All enquiries about Council Tax can be made via email to revenues@wyre.gov.uk or by calling 01253 891000.

We collect council tax on behalf of Lancashire County Council, Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner, Lancashire Combined Fire Authority and parish and town councils.

Youratcouncil newsletter Find out more wyre.gov.uk/council tax

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A traditional market with over 150 stalls.

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Bag a bargain today!

Wyre Voice is delivered to every home in the borough. That’s 51,000 homes reaching a population of 108,236 people.

Email communications@wyre.gov.uk to register your interest in advertising in this and other council publications.

How to contact us

/wyremarkets wyre.gov.uk @wyrecouncil @wyrecouncil

Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday all year round from 9am - 4.30pm Also open all Bank Holidays and Tram Sunday

/wyrecouncil

/wyrecouncil mailroom@wyre.gov.uk 01253 891000 or text 01253891000

Civic Centre, Breck Road, Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, FY6 7PU.

markets.co.uk Victoria Street / Adelaide Street, Fleetwood, Lancashire FY7 6AB Tel: 01253 887651

We hope you have enjoyed reading Wyre Voice and would love to hear what you think about it.

Please email communications@wyre.gov.uk with your feedback.

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marinehall fleetwood

Wyre Voice

Winning Post Saturday 16 April, 7.30pm A night of horse racing, music, comedy and magic with Bob Champion, Richard Pitman, Martin Daniels, Tom Vaughan and presenter Andi Mac £15 The Band of the King’s Division Friday 6 May, 7.30pm £11 The Rubettes featuring Alan Williams Friday 20 May, 7.30pm £18 ___________________________ Indoor Car Boot Sale Sundays 22 May & 24 July 10am - 2pm, free entry Come and enjoy a bacon butty and pick up some bargains.

Stalls available from £10 Call 01253 887693 to book ___________________________ Mike James Orchestra and Singers In the Style of Last Friday 3 June, 7.30pm £15 Dirty Dusting Thursday 16 June, 7.30pm Hilarious comedy. Three women (past their sell by date) start up a telephone sex line!

Starring Benidorm’s Crissy Rock. £20

Westrock Friday 17 June, 7.30pm The ultimate classic American rock show £18.50 Jongleurs Comedy Night Friday 1 July, 8pm £12 or £10pp for a table of ten or more (over 18s only) The Searchers Friday 22 July, 7.30pm With John McNally, Frank Allen, Spencer James and Scott Ottaway £20 One Night of Elvis Friday 29 July, 7.30pm £20 The Dressing Room Saturday 30 July, 7.30pm A play by Bobby Ball, starring Cannon and Ball, Johnnie Casson and Stu Francis £16 The Everly Brothers Show Saturday 6 August , 7.30pm A tribute by the Temple Brothers £15 Marty MacDonald’s Toy Machine!

Tuesday 23 August, 2pm Family fun show voiced by CBeebies’ Justin Fletcher £9 Your council newsletter

wyretheatres.co.uk 01253 887693 marinehall thorntonlittletheatre

@marinehallwyre @theatrethornton

Into the Shadows Saturday 16 April, 7.30pm A tribute to the unique sound of The Shadows £12 Croft and Pearce Saturday 30 April, 8pm Great sketch comedy from this BBC Radio 4 duo £12 Glory Days A Tribute to Bruce Springsteen Saturday 23 July, 7.30pm £13 Goldilocks and the Three Bears Friday 5 August, 2pm £8, family of four £30 Morecambe and Wise REBOOTED Saturday 10 September, 7.30pm A live theatrical version of a classic Eric and Ernie TV show £13