Wyre Voice Spring 2017

Wyre Council’s Community MagazineWyre Voice

What’s on and what’s new across the borough

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voice g n i r Sp 7 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

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Together we make a difference What’s on in Wyre Focus on Thornton Cleveleys Healthy Wyre Wyre’s great outdoors

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Focus on Poulton

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Life in Wyre

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Prepare for flooding

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Foreword Welcome to the latest edition of Wyre Voice.

This edition always accompanies the council tax bill and I am always aware how big a burden that is on the finances of residents.

In 2017/18 our proposal is to increase council tax by just £5 (Band D equivalent) per year, which follows on from a five year freeze and a small increase in 2016/17 of 1.75%.

This means that Wyre’s annual share of your council tax bill is £188.31 which equates to just under 52p per day.

Whilst Wyre’s increase is £5 per year, the increase from the county council on a Band D property is £46.88 per year.

Wyre is the collection authority but that does not mean we keep all the revenue that is collected.

74% of your council tax is transported to the county council, 12% comes to Wyre whilst 14% is allocated to the police and fire services.

Focus on Garstang and Over Wyre

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Clean and green

Wyre would never willingly increase council tax but we have to face reality and acknowledge that our Government grant has reduced by 70% in the period from 2010/11 to 2017/18, so something has to be done to bridge the gap and protect the services that Wyre provides for residents.

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Fleetwood Market

We have not cut any services that we provide and this is a great compliment to our officers at Wyre Council.

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Focus on Fleetwood

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Council Tax

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Keep in touch

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Wyre theatres

Front cover: Barton Square, Knott End on Sea

Our recent Life in Wyre survey was very encouraging with 82% satisfied or very satisfied with where they live and the majority agreeing that 50p a day (2016/17) for the services and facilities we provide is value for money.

Our policy of working together is clearly working and together we make a difference in making Wyre a fantastic place to live, work and visit.

Councillor Peter Gibson Leader, Wyre Council Your council newsletter

Together We Make a Difference The newly formed Together We Make a Difference initiative is a growing network of organisations across Wyre, brought together to work with and empower local people to make a difference in their communities. We want to help and support people to tackle those big ticket issues that are important to them.

Do you have an idea that could be a real game changer for your community?

Are you part of a group trying to make a difference but need that extra support and guidance?

Together We Make a Difference could be for you! Contact your local councillor today for a chat about your idea and let’s make a difference together. Read about a great example of this at Cottam Hall Pavilion on page 10.

Find out who your local councillor is at wyre.gov.uk/councillors

Wyre Voice

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The former Cardinal Allen RC High School pupil and member of Wyre Youth Council says the mayoral role is a worthwhile one.

Jessica comments: “I think it’s good that younger people can be represented like this.

I hope that I can do something worthwhile during my time in office. We’ve already made a start at the Wyre Youth Council and we’ll be visiting schools raising awareness of drug and alcohol issues.”

Jessica is the representative for young people in the borough and has been arranging a number of civic occasions involving young people, alongside the Mayor of Wyre Councillor Terry Lees. She hosted a charity ball in February to raise money for charity.

Jessica is keen to work with young people in the area and to hear from you about events across Wyre. Why not get in touch with her: Email: youthmayor@wyre.gov.uk

@wyreyouthmayor

You can also find out more about the kind of projects we get involved with by going to wyre.gov.uk/together Why not follow us on social media and get up to the minute news on our work across Wyre: @wyretogether /wyretogether

Wyre’s Youth Mayor Fleetwood teenager Jessica Basquill has a year with a difference lined up.

Jessica, 16, of Fleetwood is Wyre’s Youth Mayor and has been attending many public engagements.

Together we make a difference

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What’s on in Wyre

Wyre Voice

From arts, food and walking festivals to Tram Sunday and tractor pulling, there’s a fantastic programme of events to look forward to in Wyre. So start planning your summer now!

Dates for your diary Sunday 16 April Easter Tea Party and Egg Hunt at Memorial Park, Fleetwood

Sat 17 - Sun 18 June Scorton Steam Fair Monday 26 June Forton Field Day Saturday 1 July Hambleton Gala Saturday 8 July Knott End and Preesall Gala

Saturday 29 April - Monday 1 May Scorton Bikes and Barrows Festival

Saturday 15 - Sunday 16 July Great Eccleston Show

Saturday 6 - Sunday 14 May Garstang Walking Festival

Sunday 16 July Fleetwood Festival of Transport (Tram Sunday)

Saturday 20 May Stalmine Gala

Saturday 22 July Fun Day at Memorial Park, Fleetwood

Saturday 27 May Churchtown and District Children’s Festival

Saturday 29 July Pilling Coffee Feast

Monday 29 May Garstang and District Children’s Festival

Sunday 30 July Wyre Estuary Country Park Open Day, Stanah Saturday 5 August Garstang Show

Saturday 3 June Catterall Gala Poulton Gala Saturday 10 June Calder Vale Children’s Festival Sunday 11 June Cleveleys Car Show Bilsborrow Children’s Festival & Village Fun Day Thornton Cleveleys Gala Myerscough College’s Open Day and Country Fair Saturday 17 June Fleetwood Carnival

Sunday 20 August Fylde Coast Food and Drink Festival at Marine Hall, Fleetwood Monday 21 - Sunday 27 August Garstang Arts and Music Festival Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 August European Tractor Pulling Championship, Great Eccleston Saturday 9 – Sunday 10 September Lancashire Game and Country Festival, Scorton

Visit discoverwyre.co.uk for more Your council newsletter information about events in Wyre.

Wyre Voice

Appeal for Tram Sunday volunteers Fleetwood Festival of Transport, affectionately known as Tram Sunday locally, may be over 30 years old but it’s still one of the most popular family events in Lancashire.

On Sunday 16 July, over 200 classic and vintage vehicles will be on display in the town as around 70,000 people come together to enjoy a day of brilliant and free entertainment.

Don’t be fooled into thinking this event is just for transport enthusiasts; yes there will be classic cars, motorbikes, buses, lorries and trams of course, but you’ll also find a great variety of fun-packed attractions and entertainment, not least the SpareParts Arts Festival.

The event is run entirely by volunteers and they are appealing for new recruits to help make this year’s event better than ever.

Peter Brown, committee member, said: “Since taking over Tram Sunday in 2010, and first incorporating SpareParts in 2013, the current management

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team has developed the event to the extent that it is now probably one of the largest free annual events of any type in the UK, and certainly one planned and managed purely by unpaid volunteers.

“However, as Tram Sunday has grown, we require more volunteers – especially people from a management background who may be able to help co-ordinate different aspects of this now major event.

“The committee is looking for volunteers who can help with aspects such as marketing, administration and tracking down new exhibits and attractions, and work within our team. This would attract individuals who are interested in all things transport and/or all aspects of the arts.”

Anyone interested should email Tramsundayhelp@gmail.com for further details. tramsunday.co.uk

Organising an event?

To hold an event on council land you must apply for a land licence at least 12 weeks prior. You’ll need public liability insurance and there’s a fee of £50 per licence.

Apply online at wyre.gov.uk/eventapplication where you can also apply for a temporary road closure.

Events with licensed activities such as alcohol sales or live music will need a Temporary Event Notice (TEN). Apply online at wyre.gov.uk/ten at least ten working days before the event. There’s a fee of £21 per application.

Together we make a difference

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Focus on

Wyre Voice

Full steam ahead for railway society Poulton and Wyre Railway Society (PWRS) is steaming ahead on progress towards its target to re-open the railway line between Poulton and Fleetwood thanks to a successful grant application for £10,000 from the Walney Extension Community Fund.

The latest efforts by the team of volunteers are to clear the track around Jameson Road Bridge at the Fleetwood end of the line.

“New members are always welcome and anyone wishing to get involved in this community project is encouraged to get in touch through our website or Facebook page. Another way to help the project is through the ‘Sponsor a Sleeper’ fund by making contributions towards the £20 cost of each railway sleeper for the track” said Peter Williams, PWRS Committee and Trust member. pwrs.org

Playing fields to be developed King George’s playing fields are in line for a makeover thanks to funding set aside from recent planning developments in the area.

The money is available to improve the playing fields and the land adjacent, north of Royles Brook, which lie between Thornton Health and Fitness Centre and Marsh Mill Shopping Village on Fleetwood Road North.

Consultation with residents and businesses will result in a master plan that will be available from April. Features to be reviewed include drainage, paths, seating and planting.

Dedicated to the memory of King George V, the playing fields were first formed in the 1930s before being further developed under the design direction of the famous Thomas Mawson practice in the 1960s.

Enterprise zone to boost local economy Hillhouse International Business Park in Thornton is now formally recognised as an Enterprise Zone along with three other sites in Lancashire.

Enterprise Zone status means that companies relocating to Hillhouse can benefit from incentives of either business rate relief or enhanced capital allowances, making it an attractive option for companies looking for a new home.

The site was formerly home to ICI and currently hosts over 60 businesses. This includes world class organisations such as Victrex plc, AGC Chemicals Europe Ltd, Addison Project and Vinnolit that operate globally from Thornton. Over 1600 jobs are supported at Hillhouse and plans to expand the site could see this figure rise to over 3000 in the coming years.

New investment targeted for Hillhouse will be from advanced manufacturing, waste technology, polymers, chemicals and energy generating sectors.

Your council newsletter

hillhouseez.com

Thornton Cleveleys Great offers at Thornton YMCA

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Did you know?

For anyone looking to take up a new activity in 2017 look no further than Thornton YMCA.

Air Skate Wyre Skate Night sessions Fridays 6pm - 7.30pm For beginners under 12 years to improve confidence and skating from instructor-led sessions. air-skate.co.uk

YMCA Bowl Over 50s special bowling sessions every weekday from 10am to 12noon £4.80 including bowling and a tea or coffee

Carers bowl for free 1 - 30 April, weekdays 1.30pm – 4.30pm £2 per person per game Pre-booking required online at ymcabowl.co.uk quoting ‘Wyre Voice’.

You must present carer ID on arrival (1 carer per paying guest). Call 01253 824108. ymcabowl.co.uk

Marsh Mill windmill, built in 1794, is Grade II listed, one of the highest tower mills in Europe and still retains its original machinery.

Marsh Mill will reopen for tours from

Good Friday, 14 April and will be open every weekend 10.30am to 4.30pm until November. Visit at Easter to see the sails on the mill turning.

Cleveleys Tourist Information Centre i-bus This will be on Cleveleys promenade every week Thursday to Saturday during the visitor season from 13 April.

Together we make a difference

Th Clev ornton eley Satu s Gala r 11 day Jun e

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Wyre Voice

Healthy Wyre

Healthier Fleetwood

Focus on children’s teeth

Healthier Fleetwood was set up last summer to positively address issues affecting the long-term health and wellbeing of those living in the town. The aim is to bring together residents, health and care providers, emergency services, charities and voluntary groups, sports and community based projects and local businesses to make a real difference to people’s lives.

In 2015, 34.4% of five year olds in Wyre were reported to have dental decay, which is higher than the national rate, and the proportion of decayed teeth that are both untreated and filled is significantly worse in Wyre than across England.

Six months on and Healthier Fleetwood is firmly established and looking forward to an exciting 2017. Six open spaces will be the focus of new activities targeted at improving health and community participation, and there is a wide range of health focussed events taking place. healthierfleetwood.co.uk

The NHS recommends making sure children don’t eat too many sweets, particularly before bed, giving them raw fruit and vegetables to snack on instead and avoiding fizzy drinks.

NHS dental care for children is free.

Find a dentist and more advice at nhs.uk/livewell/dentalhealth

Vital service keeps people out of hospital A new extensive care service on the Fylde Coast is helping to keep people out of hospital. The service works to support patients over 60 with two or more long-term conditions, so that they receive more coordinated support closer to home and less in hospital.

The service is available for eligible patients at all GP surgeries in Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre.

Those who are eligible for extensive care will be offered a referral into the service by their GP. A dedicated team then supports patients with all of their health and care needs in one place so they no longer have various appointments with different professionals. yourcareourpriority.nhs.uk

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Wyre’s great outdoors We are lucky in Wyre to have coast, countryside and plenty of parks to enjoy, and with spring on the way now is the time to get outdoors.

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“Problems arise when people don’t understand the terrain or the tides. The coast can be enjoyed safely at low tide by taking a few sensible precautions.”

Enjoy the beach safely:

We challenge you this year to visit a part of the borough you’ve never been to before.

Follow the Mythic Coast Artwork Trail from Cleveleys to Rossall or take the kids crabbing at Knott End. Cycle the network of pathways at Wyre Estuary Country Park in Thornton or join a ranger-led bluebell walk in Calder Vale.

The possibilities are endless.

• Check tide times • Carry a fully charged mobile phone • Wear light coloured clothing or carry something to wave • Carry a compass • Contact NCI to let them you know your intentions before you set out NCI is always on the lookout for more volunteers and fundraising help. Call in to the tower for a chat or call 01253 870618 to find out more. Make a donation at ncirossallpoint.co.uk.

Find inspiration at discoverwyre.co.uk. /discoverwyre

@discoverwyre

NCI keeping you safe on the coast Did you know that the National Coastwatch Institution (NCI) works out of Rossall Point Observation Tower 365 days a year, keeping watch over the beach and sea ready to help anyone who gets into trouble?

Volunteers Stuart MacGregor, Bill Tyrer and Brian Johnson on watch.

Amazingly NCI is run entirely by volunteers and all their equipment is purchased through fundraising.

Heard about the new island that has formed two miles out from the tower?

Stuart MacGregor, NCI volunteer, wants people to enjoy the coast but to be safe too. He commented: “We keep a watchful eye over everyone including dog walkers, anglers, horse riders, swimmers and the many small fishing boats and larger vessels on the water.

Please don’t attempt to reach it.

It is surrounded by deep gulleys and the tide can come in around the sides rapidly, cutting you off from the mainland. You may also disturb rare birds that have made it their habitat. View the island from the top deck of the tower instead. You might be lucky enough to see dolphins or seals too.

Together we make a difference

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Focus on

Wyre Voice

Cottam Hall Pavilion set for a new lease of life

Join Poulton Partnership today!

Poulton Partnership is a membership organisation whose primary aim is to organise events which promote Poultonle-Fylde as a thriving market town. These include the annual Christmas Festival, Celebrate Poulton, a number of special markets and many other activities.

Cottam Hall pavilion is a fantastic community resource used all year round by Blackpool Ladies FC and Wyre Cricket Club.

Both clubs approached Wyre Council to help bring the pavilion, which was in need of a facelift, back to life and make it a place that can be enjoyed not only by members, but by spectators and local residents alike.

Following an extensive consultation exercise with club members and local people, works to revitalise this much needed facility are now underway with the first phase of initial repairs coming to an end this spring. The next phase will include applying for grant funding and seeking donations to transform the facility.

Improvements will include first rate changing facilities and toilets, an area to hold private functions, provision for spectators and better lighting.

Follow Wyre Cricket Club on Facebook at facebook.com/WyreCC or email wyrecricketclub@gmail.com

The partnership seeks to work with other groups that have similar aims, such as Poulton Gala Committee and Poulton in Bloom, who form sub committees of the partnership.

On Sunday 28 May, with Guide Dogs for the Blind, the partnership will host its second dog show on Vicarage Park. This is only one of a number of events that will take place during the 2017 Celebrate Poulton week, culminating in Gala Day on Saturday 3 June.

Can you help make these events extra special? Would you like to become a member of Poulton partnership? Get in touch via email at roger@critchl.plus.com

Why not enjoy your local award winning Spa? Spa on the Breck is celebrating after receiving the award for Best New Business at the annual Wyre Business Awards back in November.

Blackpool Ladies FC are also always looking for new members and volunteers. To support them email macbarlow@blackpoolfc.co.uk Your council newsletter

Poulton

Wyre Voice

This was a great achievement for the spa, as the team has been working hard to provide the community and beyond access to a wide variety of amenities including the famous Spa Journey, and a wide range of beauty treatments. With new and exciting ventures on the horizon, Spa on the Breck continues to grow locally and is fast becoming a destination in its own right.

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Teanlowe 60+ Community Centre goes from strength to strength Poulton is home to a unique and treasured facility for over 60’s - Teanlowe 60+ Community Centre.

The centre offers a lifeline for people across Wyre promoting independence and healthy living and providing a place to socialise.

You can drop in six days a week, Monday to Friday, between 10am and 1pm and Saturday between 10am and noon. Age UK Lancashire will also be bringing afternoon support sessions in the near future.

Spa on the Breck was established in May 2015 and formed part of the £6m reinventing leisure strategy by Wyre Council that included developments to Poulton, Garstang and Thornton Leisure Centres.

YMCA Fylde Coast manages the facility on behalf of the council.

Run entirely by volunteers, the centre is always in need of more help. If you can help from 9.30am until 1pm one morning every six weeks, please get in touch!

Check out the latest offers at spaonthebreck.co.uk/offers or call 01253 887157.

Did you know?

ala nG o t l Pou turday Sa une 3J

Legend has it that a skull and cross bones carved on a tombstone at St. Chad’s Church mean that it’s the grave of a pirate.

Call in to the centre, opposite Queensway Surgery, or contact Phil Howarth at p.howarth@sky.com or on 01253 890197 to volunteer or hire the venue.

Together we make a difference

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Wyre Voice

Life in Wyre results

Happy in Wyre Recently we asked residents to share their views about where they live, including what’s important in making it a good place to live, opinions about council services, how they prefer to receive information, and about community health care, in our biennial Life in Wyre survey.

Over 1,420 people took part to tell us what they are happy with and where improvements can be made.

• 8 out of 10 respondents (82%) said they are happy with their local area as a place to live • Low crime levels, followed by health services and good roads and pavements are the top three most important aspects in making an area a good place to live • Similar to the results of 2014, dog fouling/irresponsible owners is considered the biggest anti-social behaviour problem with road safety/irresponsible drivers becoming an increasingly bigger issue than two years ago • Parks and open spaces, promenade and beach management, and keeping public land and streets clear of litter and fly-tipping are the services residents are most satisfied with • Tackling dog fouling is the service residents are least satisfied with • Over half of respondents agree that the council delivers value for money • Residents feel that we are keeping them more informed, with Wyre Voice residents’ magazine and social media appearing to be the most effective channels of communication • Stress is by far the most significant factor having a negative impact on resident’s health and wellbeing, particularly in those under the age of 44 The results are now being analysed in greater detail, so that we can better understand the needs of our differing communities. The information will be used by the council to help shape future services and research. We are not resting on our laurels in the meantime but continue to tackle the issues you have asked us to focus on including dog fouling and flytipping.

Thank you to everyone who took part in the survey.

Further updates will be posted in the autumn edition of Wyre Voice.

We are continually seeking the views of residents on a variety of topics. You can visit wyre.gov.uk/consultation to have your say or email communications@wyre.gov.uk Your council newsletter

Prepare for flooding

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Wyre Council wants everyone in the borough to check their flood risk and if you are at risk, to take some simple steps that could make all the difference in a flood.

• Know your flood risk. One in six properties is at risk of flooding. Are you? A quick post code check at wyre.gov.uk/flooding will tell you. Or call 0345 988 1188 • Sign up for flood warning messages from the Environment Agency’s Floodline on 0345 988 1188 • Make a flood plan setting out what you will do in a flood • Put together a flood kit containing essential items to help you survive the worst • Buy flood insurance to protect your home and belongings • Buy sandbags in advance from DIY stores or builders merchants • Keep your drains and gutters clear of leaves to help prevent flooding in heavy rainfall.

• Know how to quickly turn off your water, gas and electricity mains • Join a community flood group and work with the authorities to put a community resilience plan in place

Protect your property If you live in a flood risk area, flood protection equipment must now be considered an essential and valued asset for your property. Please don’t wait until flooding is imminent as you simply won’t have time to put measures in place.

John and Pamela Nickols’ home in St Michael’s was flooded during Storm Desmond in December 2015 when the River Brock breached its banks. They suffered extensive damage as water came up through the floors and under the doors, and had to move out for nine months while repairs were undertaken.

The couple have since installed a flood fence and gates around the perimeter of the property, which are reinforced with steel to withstand the pressure of water. They’ve also had solid concrete floors put in to prevent water rising up.

John said: “The whole experience was exhausting. It was all-consuming and we lost a year of our lives. However we are back in our home now and the work we’ve had done to protect ourselves in the future gives us some reassurance.

“I’d like to encourage people to invest in protecting their homes. Even small measures like having a pump and a generator can help to take away the fear of it happening.” wyre.gov.uk/flooding Together we make a difference

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Wyre Voice

Focus on Garstang

Garstang Walking Festival From Saturday 6 to Sunday 14 May you can 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 the west of Bowland, the wetlands and the coast.

This year’s theme is Foreshore to Fells and there are walks and activities for all abilities throughout the week with something for everyone to enjoy.

Now in its 13th year, the festival has gone from strength to strength and comprises almost fifty activities for you to choose from, whether you prefer a strenuous hill walk or a pooch friendly ramble around Scorton.

The full programme is available to download from wyre.gov.uk/GWF or in print from all our Tourist Information Centres.

Call Visit Garstang on 01995 602125 to request a copy or make a booking.

Barton Grange leisure development to start Barton Grange plans to start work this spring on its proposed ‘Flower Bowl’ (pictured below), a multi-purpose leisure complex to be built alongside Barton Grange Garden Centre at Brock on the A6 between Preston and Garstang.

The £8m development will offer premium entertainment, dining and leisure facilities, including only the second curling rink in the whole of England. It will generate at least 80 new jobs for the area.

Facilities will include a four sheet curling rink, luxury ten pin bowling, a premium threescreen cinema, an all-weather crazy golf course and two golf simulators. There will be two restaurants in the development, one of which will be a fish and chip restaurant.

The Flower Bowl will be a single storey building with a grass roof, which might eventually have sheep grazing on it.

In charge of the development is Garden Centre MD, Guy Topping. He said: “This is a major new development which will bring much needed entertainment and leisure facilities to the area. Our main target audience is the more mature market, although there will of course be many opportunities for families with young children to come along and get involved.” bartongrange.co.uk

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and Over Wyre Try YMCA Garstang for free After a £390k investment from Wyre Council, YMCA Garstang Leisure Centre on Windsor Road and YMCA Garstang Swimming Centre on Oak Road continue to grow and are looking better than ever! The interest and support from the local community has been fantastic, so come down and see for yourself.

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activities organised by YMCA Fylde Coast’s Your Move Team. The class aims to encourage more of the community to get involved in sport.

YMCA Garstang Swimming Centre has also received fully refurbished changing facilities, toilets and showers, making your visit a comfortable and pleasurable experience.

As a result of the refurbishment, the centre continues to grow and serve the community through more accessible opening hours, increased public swimming and timetabled activities.

Why not try for free?

Download your free one day membership at ymcayactive.org/vouchers.

YMCA Garstang Leisure Centre brings you the latest in cardio and resistance equipment. The centre has everything you expect to see and more, including the state of the art SYNRGY90 and Jungle Functional Training System and the latest technology from Life Fitness, LFConnect. This allows the user to continually track their workout progress from a phone, tablet or at home.

In addition to continuing with its community based activities including a local five-a-side football league and indoor bowling, the centre’s class timetable has increased in variety with the introduction of more gym based classes, early morning activities and motivational training sessions with our personal trainers.

Did you know?

Ga Dist rstang a rict Ch nd Fest ildren’s Mon ival day May 29

Garstang is re-joining the North West in Bloom competition this year following a two year sabbatical.

If you live in or around Garstang and would like to help the team of volunteers please ring Chairman Alan Pearson on 07850 699492 or email mralanpearson@googlemail.com

YMCA Garstang has recently introduced Walking Football, one of many Together we make a difference

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Wyre Voice

Clean and green

Don’t forget to register for the 2017 green waste service Wyre’s green waste collection service is now open for subscriptions for the second year of operation that starts from 1 May. The cost remains the same at £30 per year for the first bin and £25 for additional bins if purchased at the same time. This equates to £1.36 per collection with a minimum of 22 collections per year.

Anyone who joined the scheme last year needs to register and pay again by the middle of April to ensure that they do not miss any collections.

GREEN WASTE COLLECTION CHARGES O R TW A E Y

2017

the Household Waste Recycling Centres operated by Lancashire County Council.

To register and pay, view the full terms and conditions, or for more information, go to wyre.gov.uk/greenwaste

Seagull proof your roof Last summer there was an increase in the number of complaints about seagulls.

The rise in the gull population has resulted not only in attacks on people but also noise nuisance, damage to property and damaging effects on the quality of the local bathing waters from their excrement.

Gulls commonly nest on rooftops and return to the same site year after year.

If you were affected by gulls nesting on your property last year now is the time to consider taking measures to bird proof your home.

to ensure a continuous service

sign up now

Find out how you can discourage seagulls from taking up residence on your roof at wyre.gov.uk/seagulls

for Wyre to tosubscribe subscribevisit visitWYRE.GOV.UK/GREENWASTE WYRE.GOV.UK/GREENWASTE

If you don’t wish to join the green waste collection service you can compost your garden waste at home or take it to one of

Report fly tipping, dog fouling and littering online at wyre.gov.uk/reportit and we’ll clean it up as quickly as we can.

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Wyre Voice

When was the last time you visited one of the oldest markets in Lancashire? With over 200 stalls including food, clothing and household goods to name but a few, we’ve got everything you need all under one roof – all at great prices.

Rene Whiteside, aged 92 from Thornton Cleveleys, says: “I have shopped here for many years now, travelling once (or maybe even twice) a week to the market by taxi.

My first visit was with my mother, now I know most of the stall holders and they all look after me when I stop by. There’s such a fantastic range of stalls on offer, I buy my perfume from Stella, dishcloths from Mark, cards from Mavis and I’m spoilt for choice when it comes to buying my jumpers and raincoats.”

Alongside the already popular, well-established businesses we now have some welcome Open new additions to 9am – 4.30pm our market family Tuesday, including Fleetwood Thursday, Market Café. Offering a varied menu of Friday and breakfasts, toasties, salads and main meals Saturday PLUS with vegetarian options also provided, customers can also enjoy a wide selection of bank holidays and Tram fresh cream cakes too.

Sunday.

The Shack specialises in We’re fully quality modern furniture, accessible for lighting and gifts. From wheelchair floor lamps to mirrors, users and clocks to candles you’ll there’s ample discover something parking close by too. unique to take home.

Bigfoods UK is another new business proving very popular with market shoppers, offering big brand names at rock bottom prices. There are huge savings on offer so pay them a visit and take advantage of some fantastic bargains.

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For all our latest offers and events join the conversation:

CA MAC SH HIN NOW E AVA ILAB LE

/FleetwoodMarket @FleetwoodMkt Adelaide/Victoria Street, Fleetwood, FY7 6AB

01253 887651 wyremarkets.co.uk

Poulton street market every Monday, Market Square (except Bank Holidays) 9am – 4.30pm Great Eccleston street market every Wednesday, 9am – 4pm Garstang Market, High Street every Thursday, 9am - 4pm.

Together we make a difference

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Focus on

Wyre Voice

Reviving The Mount Pavilion and Gardens Wyre Council has received initial support from the Heritage Lottery Fund to continue restoring The Mount Pavilion and Gardens in Fleetwood.

Funding of £142,900 has been awarded to help the council develop a proposal to transform the landward side of the Grade II registered gardens, including the pavilion, rose garden and gate lodge, to its original Victorian landscape. The seaward side was restored last year thanks to a £1m personal donation from Mrs Doreen Lofthouse.

An early view of The Mount courtesy of Lancashire Museums

A series of events and activities will take place later in the year to allow the local community to play a part in shaping plans for the site, before a second application for the full project, totalling around £2.4M is submitted next year.

posting fabulous pictures of the seafront, supporting the local community and engaging with customers on a daily basis. And if you’re passing, stop by for a coffee!

Rossall sea defences We’re replacing two kilometres of sea defences from Rossall Hospital to Rossall Point in a £63m, four-year coastal defence scheme that will protect 7,500 properties from the risk of flooding.

Over the last three years, the vast majority of work has been carried out on the beach and out of view. However major changes are now visible at promenade level as the upper section takes shape.

The new defences are due to be completed in November 2017 when the promenade will also re-open. However landscaping work to create an ecology zone on the landward side of the defences, which is due to start in spring, will continue through until summer 2018.

The strip of grassland, from West Way to Fairway, is already classed as a Biological Heritage Site because of the rarer species of flora and fauna that grow there.

wyre.gov.uk/mountblog

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The area will be enhanced to allow residents to enjoy the rich and diverse wildlife.

circus school and the Xplorer challenge, there’s something for every member of the family.

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

Special events include the park’s annual Fun Day on Saturday 8 July and Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach on Saturday 15 July – both fabulous fun and free! Follow the Friends of Memorial Park Fleetwood on Facebook to find out more. wyre.gov.uk/memorialpark

Fleetwood Museum set to reopen Fleetwood Museum looks set to reopen this spring following Lancashire County Council’s decision to close the attraction last September.

Fleetwood Museum Trust has been formed, backed financially by Fleetwood Town Council, and intends to keep this vital part of the town’s heritage open to all. The building is owned by Wyre Council so we have varied the lease to allow the trust to take over with a peppercorn rent.

Did you know?

Marine Hall’s beautiful 1930s art deco dome has been completely restored and looks stunning.

Find an excuse to visit on the back page! marinehall.co.uk

It’s an exciting time for the museum as the trust plans new ideas for the future. Make sure it’s on your list of places to visit this year! fleetwoodmuseum.co.uk

Events at Memorial Park

Have you visited YMCA Fleetwood’s café?

Don’t miss the fantastic programme of events and activities at Fleetwood’s Memorial Park this summer.

Choose from light bites and main meals, enjoy Wallings ice cream or relax with a nice cup of tea!

Open daily from 10am on the Esplanade.

From butterfly counting and dog showing to

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Council

Wyre Voice

Council Tax 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.

Do it online at wyre.gov.uk/reportit

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.

We do not charge Council Tax for homes which are lived in only by:

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 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.

Properties exempt from Council Tax

• 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

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21

Discounts

Reductions for annexes

If only one adult lives in a property as their main home, 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, 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 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.

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

Wyre’s portion represents just 12% or £188.31 (on a band D property) of the total amount of your bill.

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

Find out more at wyre.gov.uk/counciltax

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Keep in touch

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How to contact us We aim to make it easy for you to get in touch with us in a way and at a time that suits you.

Did you know that giving us a call isn’t your only option?

Using our website is a quick and easy way to find information, pay your council tax, report an issue and much more. And you can use it 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

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• Subscribe to the green waste collection service • Arrange a bulky waste collection • Pay your council tax • Comment on a planning application • Request a new bin or box • Find out when your bin day is • Make a claim for benefits

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01253 891000 or text 01253891000 Civic Centre, Breck Road, Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire, FY6 7PU 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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