Borough Diary- Autumn 2014 edition

Autumn 2014 www.basildon.gov.uk

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YOUR 4- PAGE YOUR 4- PAGE LEISURE LEISURE GUIDE FOR GUIDE FOR BASILDON BASILDON BOROUGHBOROUGH

basildonboroughcouncil @basildoncouncil Pages 7-10Pages 7-10

DELIVERING MORE DELIVERING MORE HOMES FOR LOCAL PEOPLEHOMES FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

A PROGRAMME being unveiled by Basildon Council is paving the way for new family homes to be built across the borough, beginning the local solution to a local need.

It will initially deliver more than 50 new homes, along with improvements to the borough’s neighbourhoods and sets out arrangements for using a combination of funds and assets to provide new homes in the borough; homes which will be held in its Housing Revenue Account (HRA).

The programme also allows the council to retain a higher proportion of right to buy cash, which would otherwise be returned to central government

– money it can use to encourage further house building projects.

Meanwhile, plans to set up a council-owned house building company are advancing. A Wholly Owned Company (WOC) will identify ‘infi ll’ sites, such as dilapidated garage blocks and derelict buildings, earmarking them for sympathetic development. Its aim is to build modern homes on the sites, as well as delivering additional community benefi ts.

With an initial investment of £200,000, the company will investigate and develop house building projects on council-owned land. It has already pinpointed ten sites and plans to construct around 100 units, which

would be made available to local people as affordable rent, private sale or shared equity.

Wherever possible the company will encourage local contractors to bid for the construction work.

Cllr Phil Turner, Basildon Council leader said: “It’s all about putting residents fi rst and being in the driving seat when it comes to building new homes for local people. The company will also drive an apprenticeship and local jobs creation programme.

“Private developers won’t build new homes on such a small scale but the council will.”

Continues on page 4

PITSEA MARKET‘S PITSEA MARKET‘S GRAND OPENINGGRAND OPENING

BASILDON Mayor, Cllr

Mo Larkin offi cially opens

Pitsea’s new market.

Joined by market managers

Kevin Kelly (left) and Roger

Hamblin, Mayor Larkin unveiled

a stone plaque commemorating

the occasion. The market has

been relocated as part of the

multi-million pound Pitsea

regeneration project, which saw

a new Aldi store open on the

same day. Residents can now

look forward to a new Morrison’s

superstore opening for business

in spring 2015.

Basildon Council Leader, Cllr Phil Turner at Wickford’s Brock Meadow homes development

AUTUMN 20142

To comment on stories in this edition of the Borough Diary, or to make suggestions, please write to: Michelle Edwards-Norcisse, Editor, Borough Diary, Basildon Borough Council, The Basildon Centre, St. Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL, or email [email protected].

About the Borough Diary: This newspaper is produced by the Corporate Communications Team at Basildon Borough Council. It is published four times a year and delivered free to almost 80,000 homes in Basildon, Billericay and Wickford.

Advertise in the Borough Diary: To advertise or enquire about rates and deadlines, call 01268 294201. Basildon Council accepts no responsibility for the content of any advertisement published in the Borough Diary and the inclusion of any advertisement does not imply approval or recommendation by the council of either the terms of any offer or service contained in it or of the advertiser.

Other formats: To receive or download the electronic version of this newspaper via email, or to download the spoken word version, please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/boroughdiary For translations, or to receive the Borough Diary in an alternative format, please call 01268 294590.

Mayor’s Message from Cllr Mo Larkin

I hope you all had an enjoyable

summer and the opportunity to take

part in one of the numerous World

War One centenary events held within

the borough.

In August, I was honoured to attend

a special commemoration service to

remember and refl ect on the sacrifi ce

of so many soldiers who sadly lost their

lives during this ‘war to end all wars’.

As the commemorative events

continue, the Basildon Players will be

at the Towngate Theatre in October for

a ‘Lest We Forget’ theatre production,

with all profi ts donated to the Royal

British Legion. More events are being

planned over the next four years and

details can be found on the council’s

website (www.basildon.gov.uk) as they

are confi rmed.

I was delighted to attend the Play Your

Part Volunteer Awards in September.

The annual event celebrates the work of

volunteers of all ages across the borough.

It’s very encouraging to hear the stories

of how these special and hard-working

individuals are making a difference in

their community by giving up their time

to help others.

If you are interested in volunteering

or would like any further information,

please contact the community

involvement team on 01268 465080 or

[email protected].

With the Christmas season approaching,

the Basildon Christmas Festival will

take place on Saturday 15 November

in St Martin’s Square and festivities are

expected to be better than ever, leading up

to the Christmas lights switch on (see our

leisure and events pull out guide on pages

7 to 11 for details).

Billericay is also planning a festival for

Sunday 7 December, so there will be lots

of activities for the whole family.

Mayor of Basildon Borough Council

Mayor Mo Larkin at last year’s Christmas Festival with singer Matt Cardle and panto cast

Facebook.com/basildonboroughcouncil

CorrectionIn the printed edition of the summer Borough Diary under the article ‘Funding Boost For

Wickford Memorial Park’ on page 16, the incorrect photograph was used to caption Wickford Memorial Park. The digital edition available via www.basildon.gov.uk/boroughdiary has the

correct image. Apologies for the error.

THANKS!THANKS!THANK you to all readers who took the time to complete our reader’s survey as advertised in the last edition of the Borough Diary newspaper.

Also congratulations to Emma from Basildon, the prize draw winner of a £50 shopping voucher. We hope you enjoy spending it.

Emma was really happy to hear she was the winner, and said: “I like reading the Borough Diary as it tells me what’s going on in my local area and being a teacher I also take it to school and share the news with my

students. “As a young person it

would be great if the newspaper could be more young people friendly.”

We are working on how we can incorporate as many of your ideas as possible over the next few months.

In the meantime, in response to residents’ request for more content on local events, from this edition, we are including a leisure and events guide (see pages 7 to 10).

If you have any suggestions for the Borough Diary, please email [email protected]

GET THE BOROUGH DIARY DELIVERED TO YOUR EMAILGET THE BOROUGH DIARY DELIVERED TO YOUR EMAILSign up for e-updates by visiting

www.basildon.gov.uk/boroughdiary

Borough Diary reader survey Prize winner, Emma from Wickford

3AUTUMN 2014

BASILDON Council has launched a

new housing allocations scheme to help

working families fi nd council homes.

Changes to the way Basildon Council

allocates accommodation on its homeseeker

register makes the system fairer and easier

to understand for local people.

One of the key changes is the seven year

residency criteria, which means individuals will

need to have continually lived in the borough for

at least seven years to be eligible for the scheme.

Other amendments means all personnel

who have left the Armed Forces within the

past fi ve years, and bereaved partners, are

also be eligible regardless of whether they

have a pre-existing connection to Basildon

or not.

Cllr Phil Turner, leader of the council, said:

“Basildon homes for Basildon people means

it is our aim to maximise the choice and

access for our eligible residents who need

homes for their families.

“The new scheme improves the way we

allocate homes and brings fairness and

simplicity to the process.

“These changes will ensure we continue

to support our troops whether they have a

connection to Basildon or not.”

All applications to Basildon Council for

social housing need to be made on-line by

completing a homeseeker application form

available at www.basildonchoice.org.uk.

The scheme is due to go live on 17 October.

In the meantime the council will continue to

allocate accommodation using the existing

Choice Based Lettings Scheme.

CRUNCH TIMESThe Crunch Service is a mobile waste disposal facility that tours the borough. Residents can use it to dispose of bulkier items of rubbish. Locations marked with a G can also be used for the disposal of green waste. The Crunch Service is not suitable for paints, oils or other waste liquids.

The Crunch is from 9am to noon at each site, unless otherwise stated. Further details are available at basildon.gov.uk/recycling

4 OctoberWickford - Rettendon View 9am to 11am11am to noon Pippin Ct.Langdon Hills - Valence Way Junction with Debden Green Laindon West - Thornton Way/ Sparkbridge Parking Area Pitsea – Wilsener Next to Trenham Centre

11 OctoberBarstable West - Church Road Junction with Clickett Hill Billericay - Radford Crescent – Car Park Laindon Link - Monastery Dr.

18 OctoberWickford - Kershaws Close Rear of Nevendon Road Shops Laindon - Noak Bridge - Coppice LaneLaindon – Five Links Somercotes - Next To ShopsBowers Gifford - Westlake Path Off Pound Lane

25 OctoberWickford - Keats Way Opp. No. 3 Council Garage AreaBillericay - Little Burstead Car ParkLaindon West - Dunton Caravan Park Pitsea - Chevers Pawen 9am to 10.30amSteeplehall 10.30am to noon

1 NovemberCrays Hill Recreation Ground Billericay - David’s WalkLangdon Hills - Triangle Shops 9am to 10.30amLaindon – Danacre – Parking Area 10.30am to noon

8 NovemberBarstable - Barstable Club Long Riding Billericay - Hannikins FarmLaindon - Five LinksGower Chase service Rd.

15 NovemberWickford - The Wick Country ParkLaindon - King Edward Rd.Luncies - Stagden Cross 9am to 10.30amBeech Road 10.30am to noon

BASILDON Council has announced its grant scheme for local community groups commemorating 100 years since the outbreak of the First World War.

To date, the council has presented almost £5,000. Beauchamps High School in Wickford was

given £1000 to help fund ‘commemorative education’ across ten departments. The grant helped pay for speakers to teach youngsters about the war and fund trips by year nine students into local primary schools to pass on what they have learned. The council presented another £1000 to Noak Bridge Parish Council for a First World War commemoration day featuring an army assault course and demonstrations of armoured vehicles.

A third £1000 was handed to Bowers Gifford and North Benfl eet Parish Council for a village fete. Laptops were used to teach people about the war. Presentations

included historical archives, pictures and local anecdotes. Wartime recipes were also cooked and tried out.

WW1 community grants were also handed to Lee Chapel North Holiday Club

and the Eastgate Gallery. The gallery was given £817 for

an exhibition of war-inspired creations by local artists and will help fund work with local primary schools. The holiday club received £740 for a WW1 remembrance day, which included a service, choir performance and a pipe band. It will also allow trips to the Imperial War Museum and guest speaker visits by military experts.

Cllr Terri Sargent, Basildon Council’s cabinet member for environment and

community said: “It’s fi tting our community groups and local organisations can pay their individual tributes to those who gave their lives in the Great War.”

For details on the grant scheme visit www.basildon.gov.uk/grants

Twitter @basildoncouncil

WORLD WAR ONE CENTENARYWORLD WAR ONE CENTENARYGrants Available Grants Available

Beauchamps High School with WW1 grant scheme cheque

Wickford Lights Out WW1 commemoration event - £800

Residents join Cllr Terri Sargent as she cuts the ribbon to open the refurbished centre. Photo courtesy Echo newspapers

Lee Chapel North Holiday Club WW1 remembrance day - £740

Laboratory Art Studio - £605

Youngsters, parents and staff are celebrating now their Laindon pre-school has moved into a new home and memories of the fi re that devastated their previous building have faded away.

Busy Bees has taken up residence in the newly-named ‘Somercotes Community Hall’, on the Five Links estate, after Basildon Council completed a full refurbishment of the building. The pre-school held its fi rst classes on September 9, the start of autumn term.

More than 70 children were left without classes when the pre-school

was forced to close following a suspected arson attack at the Markhams Chase Play Centre in February.

The pre-school’s plight touched the hearts of residents across the borough, so they organised fundraising events and donated toys and play equipment to replace those destroyed in the blaze.

Basildon Council’s buildings management team remodelled the interior, creating a 62sq metre open space the pre-school can share with other community groups.

Continues on page 13

NEW HOME FOR PRE-SCHOOL& COMMUNITY GROUPS

Online housing allocation scheme set to go live

AUTUMN 20144

,

THE way we register to vote has changed and Basildon Council is now set to begin its canvassing period to ensure new registration forms are completed.

The canvassing period from 3 October to 3 November will see electoral canvassers visit households and electors who have not yet responded, to encourage return of completed forms and provide assistance and advice where necessary.

The council is asking residents to complete the forms they have been sent and return them as soon as possible, or alternatively go online and register direct.

Individual Electoral Registration (IER) means people can no longer register as a household and will instead be required to register as an individual.

IER was launched in June across the country and it is the responsibility of individuals to ensure they are registered.

Those applying will be required to provide evidence of their identity such as a national insurance number and date of birth.

Bala Mahendran, Basildon Council’s electoral registration offi cer, said: “It’s really important we encourage those who aren’t registered to get registered especially young people who may be voting for the fi rst time at the next elections.

“There are consequences of not registering under IER including being denied the right to vote and to have a say on the leadership of the country.

“For the sake of going online and registering, why run

the risk of not being able to get credit, as credit reference agencies use the electoral register to check if a person has a good rating.

“Sending electoral canvassers out costs taxpayer money but it is also essential that we ensure uptake of the new way of registering.

“Now that the process of registering can be done online for the fi rst time it is easier than ever and can be done in a few minutes.”

The electoral register is the list of people who can vote. Individuals have to register to be on it. They can go on the register when they are 16 and can vote at 18.

To register online and for more information visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote

ARE YOU REGISTERED TO VOTE?

1. Make sure there is a Basildon Council Licence Plate on the rear of the vehicle. Similar signs will be on the side doors.

2. Every licensed driver carries an I.D. badge.Ask to see it if you are in any doubt.

3. Don’t be overcharged. Taxis have to keep to maximum fares, private hirefares are to be agreed with driver or operator.

4. Don’t ask the driver to carry more passengers than is allowed.The number permitted is shown on the Licence Plate.

5. Taxis can be hailed down in the street or found at an official rank.Private Hire vehicles must be booked in advance.

Tips for Safe Travelling by Taxi in Basildon Borough5

For more information, call 01268 294280or email [email protected]

Facebook.com/basildonboroughcouncil

FAMILIES in need of larger homes are benefi ting from a downsizing scheme launched by Basildon Council.

To date there have been 27 families that have downsized from large accommodation to smaller properties.

The properties vacated are now being used as homes for those who need to transfer to more suitable property, or are on the housing register waiting for a larger family accommodation.

Kay Boshell, 65, moved from a three-bedroom property in St George’s Court, The Fryth, Fryerns, into a one-bedroom home in St Gabriel’s Court, Pitsea.

Mrs Boshell, said: “Everyone has been so helpful. I don’t have anything bad to say whatsoever.

“The property is absolutely beautiful and it’s the best thing I’ve ever done in my life. I would like to encourage people to use the scheme if they can.”

Cllr Phil Turner, leader of Basildon Council, said: “We want to make the best possible use of the housing we already have to ensure there are homes available for families who need them the most. We have more than 300 households that are currently under-occupied.

“I am delighted Mrs Boshell has used the scheme.

“Downsizing not only helps families who need the extra room but it can also help

meet the personal needs of those who no longer want a large property.

“Moving can be expensive but the council will offer a payment of up to £1,500 to each household participating. In addition, we are offering help and advice as well as new carpets and decorating services.”

The scheme offers fi nancial assistance to people seeking to downsize from family sized council homes to one-bedroom homes or from four or fi ve-bedroom homes to two-bedroom homes.

The council can also provide information to those thinking about moving, exploring their re-housing options, or needing advice on under occupied households.

To fi nd out more contact Basildon Council on 01268 533333.

BASILDON Council has slashed a

quarter of a million pounds off its

annual insurance bill and pledged

to plough these savings into local

services.

The council reduced its bill by

nearly 20 per cent, despite insurers

originally proposing to increase

premiums signifi cantly.

The savings were made on the cost

of liability, employee and property

related insurance cover for the coming

year, after the completion of a robust

market tender exercise.

Cllr Phil Turner, leader of Basildon

Council, said: “This has not only

led to substantial savings against the

original budget provision, it has also

maintained or increased our levels of

cover and protection.

“We will be passing these benefi ts

onto residents by investing in local

services and also to help maintain low

levels of council tax.”

RESIDENTS TO BENEFIT FROM COUNCIL INSURANCE SAVINGS

Downsizing Success

Cllr Phil Turner with Mrs Kay Boshell

DELIVERING MOREContinued from page 1

Wickford’s Brock Meadow is a prime

example of Basildon Council’s aim

to provide affordable new homes for

local people. As part of a 68 homes

development, the contractor has set aside

11 for the authority as it seeks to expand

its property portfolio.

The development includes bungalows

and houses and was completed in July

this year.

A pair of two-bedroom council houses,

part of a 19 unit development in Rosebay

Avenue, Billericay, has also seen tenants

move in recently. Together with the

properties in Brock Meadow, they are

among the fi rst batch of council homes

to be built in 25 years.

Cllr Turner added: “It’s gratifying to

see the Brock Meadow homes completed

and occupied. They will provide quality,

affordable homes for both elderly people

and young families.

“And it illustrates the build quality

we’re striving for, marking a great start

to the council’s plans to meet a local

need with a local solution.”

5AUTUMN 2014Twitter @basildoncouncil

AUTUMN 20146 Facebook.com/basildonboroughcouncil

VICTIM Support is a National Charity supporting Victims of Crime.

In Basildon borough over the last six months we have provided one to one support either by phone or face to face to over 300 victims.

We rely on our team of highly trained volunteers to deliver this valuable service, and are always looking for exceptional people to help us deliver support in the local area.

As a Victim Support volunteer, we will train you to support victims from the fi rst time you meet them, until they

feel strong enough to move forward on their own. You will listen to their concerns to ensure their needs are met.

WHO CAN VOLUNTEER?

You don’t need qualifi cations or previous experience to volunteer for Victim Support. All you need is the willingness to help and a little time.

If this is something you are interested in, please contact: Maggie on 01277 357555 or e-mail: [email protected]

THE INDEPENDENT crime-fi ghting

charity Crimestoppers is launching

two campaigns to support a crackdown

by police on burglary and knife crime

in and around Basildon.

The campaigns ask residents to tell

Crimestoppers what they know about any

burglaries/stolen goods, or if they know

someone who carries a knife. They could

even get a cash reward of up to £1,000

for any information which leads to the

arrest and charge of those involved in

these types of crime.

People who do not want to speak

with Essex Police on 101 can use the

Crimestoppers 24-hour phone number

of 0800 555 111 where they can

give information about crime 100%

anonymously. Information can also

be given online via Crimestoppers’

Anonymous Online Form.

Ann Scott, Eastern Regional Manager

for Crimestoppers, said: “We really need

people across Essex to tell us anything

they know about these types of crime.

Maybe someone has confessed to being

involved in a burglary.

“Maybe you know who is handling stolen

goods in your area. Maybe you know

someone who carries a knife. Burglary

and knife crime can have a devastating

impact on people’s lives, so please give

any information you have, no matter how

insignifi cant you feel it might be.

“Help us bring those involved to

justice.”

THE Anti-social Behaviour, Crime & Policing Act 2014 includes new measures designed to give victims and communities the right to request a review of their case and bring agencies together to take a more joined up approach to fi nd a solution.

A consistent approach across Essex has been developed to support all agencies involved in the use of the new legislation, aiming to provide victims of anti-social behaviour (ASB) with a coherent and effective response regardless of where they live in the county.

ASB is a broad term used to describe the day-to-day incidents of crime, nuisance and disorder that can make people’s lives a misery from litter and vandalism to public drunkenness or noisy or abusive neighbours. Such a wide range of behaviour means that responsibility for dealing with ASB is

shared between a number of agencies, particularly the police, councils and housing providers.

Basildon Borough Council will be acting as a Pilot Scheme for the South of Essex as this will ensure any implications can be identifi ed prior to the proposed new legislation being implemented in October 2014.

Residents of Basildon Borough can now request an ASB Case Review when they feel the agencies involved, such as the council, the Police or Housing Provider have not adequately responded to an ASB case reported within the previous six months.A victim of ASB or another

person acting on behalf of the victim, such as a carer or family member, Member of Parliament or Councillor, can use the ASB case review.

GIVING VICTIMS A SAY! ESSEX ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR CASE REVIEW (PILOT SCHEME)

VICTIM SUPPORT Volunteers Needed

TO QUALIFY FOR AN ASB CASE REVIEW

• If you have reported ASB to the council, Police or your Housing providers three or more times in the last six months you can request a review

• If you have reported Hate Crime to the council, Police or your Housing Provider just once in the last six months you can request a review

• The reports you have made about ASB or hate crime must have been made within one month of the alleged incident taking place

• Requests for an ASB case review must be made within six months of reports about ASB or hate crime being made to the council, Police or your housing provider.

HOW TO REQUEST AN ASB CASE REVIEW

• Online: www.basildon.gov.uk (under the Anti-social Behaviour Team & Nuisance link)• Telephone: 01268 533333• In writing to: Community Safety Team or Anti-social Behaviour Team,

Basildon Centre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, SS14 1DL

For further information regarding the Essex ASB Case review is available at: www.basildoncouncil.gov.uk, or you can contact the following:

• Anti-social Behaviour Team - Email: [email protected]• Community Safety Team - Email: [email protected]

BURGLARY &KNIFE CRIMECrackdown


LeisureLeisure Guid

eGu

ide

Welcome to the fi rst edition of the Borough Diary’s leisure supplement where you will fi nd out more

about what’s on, places to visit and things to do in Basildon, Wickford and Billericay. We cover

everything from theatre to music, comedy to art exhibitions, family days out and much more. So why not

plan ahead and make sure you don’t miss out on what’s coming up.

Inside this issue:Inside this issue:

CINDERELLA CINDERELLA BASILDON’S NO.1 BASILDON’S NO.1 FAMILY PANTOMIMEFAMILY PANTOMIMEWin tickets to see CinderellaWin tickets to see Cinderella

Meet the cast interview with Meet the cast interview with

Simon FieldingSimon Fielding

EVENT LISTINGSEVENT LISTINGS

Roller disco, Christmas Roller disco, Christmas

market, theatre and much market, theatre and much

more…more…

BASILDON’S OPEN BASILDON’S OPEN SPACES SPACES

Days out for the entire family Days out for the entire family

to enjoyto enjoy

VENUE HIREVENUE HIRESpaces to hire within BasildonSpaces to hire within Basildon

AUTUMN 20148 Facebook.com/basildonboroughcouncilFa

BASILDON’S NO.1

FAMILY PANTOMIME Wednesday 3 December 2014

to Sunday 4 January 2015Join Cinderella and her fairy godmother in this year’s

spectacular Christmas pantomime at the Towngate

Theatre, St Martin’s Square Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL.

AS TIME IS AGAINST HER WILL OR

WON’T CINDERELLA MAKE IT TO THE

BALL IN TIME?

Book your seats early before they sell out, otherwise not

even your Fairy Godmother will be able to magic you a

ticket for Basildon’s biggest pantomime.

This event is not suitable for children under the age

of 3 years.

To book your tickets, for best rates or more

information visit the Towngate Theatre website at

www.towngatetheatre.co.uk or call the box offi ce on

01268 465465.

WIN PANTO TICKETS TO

SEE CINDERELLA THIS

CHRISTMAS!!To mark the launch of the Towngate’s Christmas panto we are

giving two lucky winners the chance to win a family ticket.

Will Cinderella make it to the ball in time? Colour in the picture of her

glass slipper to create a beautiful shoe for Cinderella to wear to the ball.

Email a copy of your picture along with your name and address and

telephone number and include the words ‘Cinderella panto comp

2014’ in the subject line to [email protected], or cut out and

send us your coloured in picture to Towngate Theatre, St Martin’s

Square Basildon, Essex SS14 1DL.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS – CINDERELLA COMPETITION BOROUGH DIARY

Entries must be received by 29 November 2014. The winners will be drawn at random from correct entries.

Only one entry per person allowed. The prize cannot be exchanged or sold to a third party. The prize

drawn is open to all residents of the UK, Isle of Man and Channel Islands excluding employees of Basildon

Borough Council, their immediate families, agents or anyone professionally connected with the promotion.

No purchase necessary. The prizes consist of - two (2) family tickets (2 adults & 2 children per ticket) to see

the 2014 Cinderella pantomime at the Towngate Theatre.


Leisure

Guide

9AUTUMN 2014

GuideGuide

MEET THE CAST:

SIMON FIELDINGSimon Fielding is the director and choreographer of this

year’s pantomime and will also star as ‘Buttons’ in our

spectacular Christmas show that all the family will enjoy

- Sprinkled with Towngate panto magic, enchanted

pumpkins, sparkling glass slippers and much more, this

is a must see!

Meet Simon Fielding in his exclusive interview and

read more about the rest of the cast, where you

can join in the fun and hear more about life

behind the panto curtain. Visit the

Towngate Theatre’s panto page at

www.facebook.com/towngatepanto

Basildon Wedding FairSaturday 11 October 2014 11am to 4pm

For info visit The Place website at www.basildon.gov.uk/theplace or call 01268 465420

The Place Leisure Centre, Northlands Pavement, Pitsea Centre, Basildon SS13 3DU

Event Date & Time Price

Wedding fair

Free information packs, free expert advice from local wedding

specialists, a range of local businesses offering advice and special

offers

From more information or to book a stall, please contact

reception on 01268 465420.

Sat 11 October 2014

11am-4pm

Free entry

Half-term Halloween Roller Disco

The family roller disco promises to be fun. Come along in your

fancy dress - The scarier the better! (fancy dress is optional)

*The £3 includes one session (45 minutes skating and 15 minutes

to get your skates on/off), skate hire and disco. All ages welcome

and spectators are free

Thurs 30 October 2014

Session 1: 11am - 12pm

Session 2: 12pm - 1pm




£3 per ticket

Kids Christmas party

Children will get to enjoy two hours of fun at this festive Christmas

party. There will be a professional entertainer, games, disco,

balloon modelling, snow machine, a special visit to Santa’s grotto

with a present for each child and much more.

*Advanced booking is essential

Fri 12 December 2014

4.30pm - 6.30pm

£4 per ticket

For more information on events please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/theplace

Other events Date & Time Price

Basildon Christmas Festival, Basildon Town Centre Sat 15 November 2014All day event

Free

Billericay Christmas market, Billericay High Street

For more information visit: www.billericaychristmasmarket.com

Sun 7 December 201411am – 5.00pm

Free

To advertise in the Leisure Supplement of the Borough Diary or to enquire about rates call 01268 294201 or

email [email protected]

What’s on...What’s on...Your guide to events coming up in the borough

PLACES TO VISIT THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

Basildon has an array of open spaces, nature

reserves and parks within the borough which

are widely used by all the community who like

to enjoy the outdoors visiting nature reserves,

dog walking, bike riding, attending children’s

educational activities and much more at places

including:

Langdon Hills, Queens Park, The Wick, Wat

Tyler Country Park. Mill Meadows, Nevendon

Bushes, Noak Bridge, Norsey Wood, Vange Hill

nature reserves.

Visit the ‘country parks calendar’ of events

and ‘town parks’ page on Basildon Council’s

website to see what’s going on throughout the

year at: www.basildon.gov.uk

VENUE HIRE

If you are in need of a venue to hold your event

look no further than Basildon. The Council

owns and manages a range of suitable venues

which are available for hire and many of which

are in prime locations within Basildon, Wickford

and Billericay.

For further information about hiring Basildon

Council owned and privately managed venues

visit www.basildon.gov.uk/roomhire

TELL US YOUR VIEWSTell us your views on the new leisure

supplement, which has been produced after

feedback from our recent reader survey where

you told us that you would like to see more

news on events and activities in the borough.

Send your feedback to

[email protected]

EvEvent Date & Time Price

Your Future – helping young people into work

Thee eve ent will see local businesses, training providers, sixth fororms m

andand colleges giving valuable information, advice and guidance ttoo

those who are consooonsideideideidering their options before starting out in thehe

world of work.

Moon n 6 6 OcOctober 2014

4pm

Free

Blake In Harmony - Featuring Brit-Award nominee

Camilla Kerslake

Wed 8 October 2014

7.30pm£22

Lest We Forget - A World War One Commemoratitionon

prprese ented by The Basildon Players

Fri 244 OOctctober 2014

7.00pm

Sat 25 October 22010144

2.0000pmpm

SaS t 25 October 2014

7.7 0000pmpm

Sun 2626 OOctober 2014 2.00pm

£10 Addulultsts

CoC ncncesessisioons £8

RuRussssian State Ballet andd OOpeperara HHouse presents The

Nutcracker

Sat 25 Octobobeer 22010144

7.30pm

Adulult t £2£255

CConcessions £2£ 3

Love changes Everything starring Michael Courtney Sun 26 October 2014

7.30pm£17.50

Opera Brava Christmas Extravaganza - a glittering

Christmas celebration of festive musical gems

Fri 19 December 2014

7.30pmFrom £17.50 - £27.50

Concessions £2 off

ticket price

For more shows at the Towngate visit our What’s on page at www.towngatetheatre.co.uk. New brochure out now!

Don’t miss out on ticketetss toto sseeee yyouour r faf vovouru ite shows at the TTowowngngatatee ThTheatrtree,

St Martin’s Squaree, BBasildonon, EsEssesex,x SSS144 1DL


PARENTS and teachers from Lee Chapel North are high in praise for an innovative pilot project which has helped improve family relationships, build confi dence and self esteem, and encourage well-being.

The Joint Education and Training School Project (JETS) included a six week family cookery programme for 40 school children and their families at Janet Duke Primary School and Phoenix Primary School. This saw parents and children learn about nutrition and prepare, from scratch, meals from around the world. Participants were encouraged to take time out of their busy day to spend time together as a family and enjoy cooking and fun activities which, in the past, they may not have done together.

This project is part of a wider Community Builder pilot sponsored by Essex County Council. Basildon is one of fi ve local areas across the County to benefi t from funding. The project is championed by the Basildon Renaissance Partnership, and the Basildon Excellence Panel, to explore new ways of working with families focusing on lasting change.

Speaking about the programme, parents have reported improved relationships with their children, as well as greater enthusiasm for preparing and eating healthy meals. Teachers have also seen a positive impact on children’s learning as the children, excited by what they have learned

during the school programme, are more open to learning and better able to retain what they have been taught in the classroom.

One parent said: “Kelly and I don’t often have the opportunity to spend time as I have three other children. It has brought us together, learning together. I now realise what Kelly is capable of doing, such as chopping vegetables. Now there is ‘no shouting, no ranting and raving’. We are able to talk to together and hear what each other is saying.”

Another parent said: “The reward systems are really helping Ryan and he is taking more pride in trying to do well. I defi nitely think his concentration has improved and it is also helping in his school work.”

Basildon Council’s cabinet member for community and environment, Cllr Terri Sargent, said: “We have had a fantastic response from parents who took part in JETS, and it continues to create a real

buzz with families who are getting to do fun, easy and practical things together as a family which has meant more quality time for all involved.

“Through JETS, participants have been learning the enormous benefi ts healthy eating and positive family interaction can have in the home and at school, and this in turn can have a positive knock on effect in the community.”

PARENTS & TEACHERS PRAISE INNOVATIVE FAMILY PROJECT

COUNCILLOR SURGERIES

David DaddsAndrew SchraderStuart SullivanAnthony HedleyDaniel LawrencePhil TurnerAndrew BaggottKevin BlakeRichard Moore

Last Saturday in month (except December) 10:30am to noonThe Library, High Street, Billericay

Stuart AllenTerri Sargent

1st Saturday in month 9:30am to 10:30amNoak Bridge Village Hall, Coppice Lane, Noak Bridge

3rd Saturday in month 9am to 10am atSteeple View Memorial Hall, Willowfi eld, Laindon, SS15 4EQ

Pat RackleyPhil Rackley

Every fi rst Monday and every third Tuesday of the month from 2pm to 3pm at the Basildon Community Resource Centre, 1 The Gore, Basildon, SS14 2EA

Alan BallNigel Le GresleyPeter HollimanDavid Harrison

1st Saturday in month 10am to noon at Wickford Community Centre, Market RoadWickford

All other councillors are

available through their contact

details at www.basildon.

gov.uk

BASILDON Council’s

‘Reading Partnership

Scheme’ is becoming a big

hit with primary school

pupils and the volunteers

who are helping improve

their literary skills.

The project, which sees

local workers give an hour

of their lunch break a week

to help school children get

into reading, was designed to

raise standards of education

in the town.

Leading Basildon fi rms

including Palmers Solicitors

and Selex EC, along

with Job Centre Plus and

Basildon Excellence Panel,

are backing the scheme,

which, Cllr Kevin Blake,

Basildon Council’s deputy

leader, says would benefi t

even further from more

volunteers.

“The impact the reading

partners scheme is having

on these young people, who

may not get the chance

to develop their reading

skills elsewhere, is just

phenomenal,” he adds. “If

only more volunteers from

local businesses would come

forward, just think what a

huge difference this could

make across the borough.

“The reading partnership

is helping to strengthen

ties between the world of

work and education and it’s

important to get more local

fi rms involved.”

For more information

about the scheme and

how to volunteer, please

contact Sam Terrell,

Basildon Council’s senior

economic development

and regeneration offi cer on

01268 294057 or email sam.

[email protected]

Help pupils improve Help pupils improve their reading skillstheir reading skills NEIGHBOURLY PACT TO

IMPROVE WICKFORDGOT an idea to make Wickford an even better place to live? Basildon Council is looking for Wickford residents who are willing to work with local businesses and services to improve the Nevendon Park area. Known as a neighbourhood agreement, this ‘deal’ between local people and organisations in the area allows each party to make commitments about how they will help improve the area.

Usually between local residents and providers of local services, this agreement can also be used for communities to reach agreement among themselves. An example of this would be residents agreeing with young people what actions would be considered anti-social behaviour.

Local residents and businesses should be equal partners in the agreement and local agencies or service providers that typically sign up to agreements include: local authorities; police; housing associations; voluntary and community groups; faith groups; and other statutory service providers like the NHS or fi re brigade.

Local volunteer Esther Cairns,

who was involved in the Highcliffe neighbourhood agreement, said: “I have been part of this neighbourhood agreement since its conception two years ago! Previous to this I had never volunteered.

“I have enjoyed immensely being part of this project and in particular seeing the community cafe move from an idea and dream to something that is actually up and running.

“I have met some great people along the way, some that have become friends, and great work contacts!! All I have met have a common goal which I believe is to live and be part of a more integrated and happier community.”

Basildon Council’s cabinet member for environment and community, Cllr Terri Sargent, said: “The Neighbourhood Agreement developed in the Highcliffe area of Wickford has been a great success bringing the local community and public agencies together to open a community café and job club run by volunteers benefi tting the community.”

For more information please contact Wickford’s Community Development Offi cer on 07715752 648 or email [email protected]

Parents and children preparing meals from scratch

Paris wth her JETS Certifi cate for being an outstanding little chef

AUTUMN 201412

A BASILDON Council tenant was so pleased

with her brand new kitchen she said it was

‘like winning the lottery’.

Ninety four year-old May Plumb, was the

recipient of the 2000th kitchen to be fi tted by the

council’s Decent Homes contractor, Mulalley.

Mrs Plumb, who has lived in the borough for

more than 60 years, said: “It’s marvellous. When

I heard I would be getting a new kitchen fi tted it

was like winning the lottery. I couldn’t be more

pleased.”

Mulalley were appointed sole contractor on

Basildon Council’s Internal Decent Homes

Programme which will see half of the borough’s

housing stock receive improvements. Works are

being delivered under a partnering contract over

four years.

Cllr Phil Turner, leader of Basildon Council,

said: “Since the council brought Mulalley on board

for this major programme of works, the feedback

from residents has been very encouraging.

“I am delighted that Mulalley has now completed

work on its 2000th kitchen and am sure that

there will be many more happy customers like

Mrs Plumb in the next few years of the Decent

Homes Programme. I would also like to recognise

the hard work and effort that the site teams and

resident liaison offi cers from both the council

and Mulalley have had to put in to achieve this

milestone.”

NEW KITCHEN’S LIKE ‘WINNING THE LOTTERY’NEW KITCHEN’S LIKE ‘WINNING THE LOTTERY’Facebook.com/basildonboroughcouncil

A NUISANCE neighbour will not be allowed to return to her home after Basildon Council successfully obtained a possession order on her property.

The woman from Clay Hill Road, Basildon has been permanently excluded from her council property after a successful possession hearing at Southend County Court this summer.

The possession hearing signalled the end of a year of legal wrangling in which Basildon Council’s anti-social behaviour (ASB) team successfully obtained a Closure Order in August last year and an extension to the original Closure Order back in March.

Cllr Phil Turner, leader of Basildon Council, said: “We will continue to take positive action against individuals

who fail to harmoniously integrate into our community and will take appropriate steps to stop bad behaviour.”

Meanwhile, a trio of successful August prosecutions has saved Basildon Council almost £27,000 in fraudulently claimed housing and council tax benefi t.

The cases, which were heard at Basildon Magistrates’ Court, involved a Laindon woman of Clifford Close who failed to tell the council she was living with her partner whilst claiming. She was fi ned more than £1,000, ordered to complete 200 hours unpaid work and repay £11,275.14.

A Billericay resident of Lorrimore Close, pleaded guilty to failing to notify a change of circumstances while claiming housing and council tax benefi t and was

required to undertake 60 hours unpaid work and repay £9,261.54 – he had more than £18,000 in the bank at the time.

A pensioner of Hillhouse Court, Billericay, who had nine undeclared bank accounts but still claimed some £6,000 she wasn’t entitled to, was sentenced to eight weeks imprisonment, suspended for 12 months, ordered to pay £1,217 in fi nes and costs, plus the £6,000.

Cllr Stuart Sullivan, cabinet member for resources said: “It beggars belief how benefi t cheats believe they can just take taxpayers money away from people who genuinely warrant our support.

“Fraud is stealing and benefi t fraud is stealing from the needy.”

ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR AND FRAUD CRACKDOWN

JUDGES were once again wowed by the high standard in this year’s Gardens in Bloom competition.

Basildon Council’s sheltered housing schemes take part in the competition annually to improve and make communal areas more attractive.

The event is also enjoyed by tenants as a way of getting active and socialising with neighbours.

Blooming Blooming GardensGardens

LOCAL SERVICE DIRECTORY

Counselling Your Ad HereDog GroomingSouthend Mind

For bettermental health

MINDFUL COUNSELLINGis an established Private Service set up by Basildon Mind and adheres to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy Codes of Ethics and Practice.All Counsellors are fully qualifi ed to a minimum of Diploma Level.

Counselling appointments can be offered outside of normal offi ce hours.

For further confi dential informationplease telephone: Patricia Holdsworth B.Sc. Hons., Counselling Manager, on 01268 284130.

Church

Every Sunday 10am and 6.30pmSunday School 10amMidweek Fellowship Wednesday 1.45pm

Manor Mission Church, Manor Road, Laindon, Basildonwww.manormissionchurch.org.uk

Come and join us and get a warm welcome

Resident May Plumb(centre) outside her home

Some of this year’s entries for the ‘Gardens in Bloom ‘competition

To advertise here call the

Sponsorship Offi cer on

01268 294201 or email

angela.savage@basildon.

gov.uk.

As with all Borough Diary

adverts, publication does

not imply any guarantee of

service or recommendation

by Basildon Borough

Council.

BASILDON’S older residents can check if they are getting all the help they need at an event billed as the “market place for benefi ts and services”.

Held on Friday 17 October from 10am to 2pm at the George Hurd Centre (GHC), Audley Way, Basildon SS14 2FL, the event will offer residents tailor-

made, expert advice and information on benefi ts such as Council Tax support, Pension Credit and Attendance Allowance, Careline services, fi re safety and much more.

Free tea/coffee and biscuits will also be available.

For more information contact Impact at the GHC on 01268 553553.

HELP FOR HELP FOR OLDER PEOPLE OLDER PEOPLE


THERE is plenty of funding available for local voluntary and community groups and organisations, if they know where to look - that’s the message from Basildon Council’s community involvement team - the challenge is many don’t know how to access it - and that’s where we can help.

The council’s community involvement team works with local groups, helping them access a wide range of grant funding pots so they can turn their ambitions into reality. A variety of funding sources are available both locally and nationally, which are designed to support all kinds of ideas.

“Even in these austere times, funders such as the Big Lottery Fund are keener than ever to support local projects,” says Leah Douglas, Basildon Council’s community involvement manager. “And the team regularly helps a number of Basildon groups ‘help themselves’ to secure grant funding.

“We work with local community groups and organisations, getting them in the best

possible position to qualify for funding and identify a suitable fund provider, which gives them an excellent chance of securing the money they need to get their initiatives off the ground.

“We’re here to help all sorts of local groups, no matter how modest or ambitious their plans. It could be for a community garden, a young people’s club or an anti-loneliness campaign. Funding is available from many sources, so we are happy to help everyone.”

Community groups can even take advantage of the team’s application scrutiny service, where experienced offi cers will critique a draft request for funding, adding value and giving constructive feedback on how it can be improved.

Cllr Terri Sargent, the council’s portfolio holder for environment and community said: “The community involvement team’s work has two important benefi ts for this borough. It’s encouraging greater use of

our community buildings, transforming them into open, thriving and vibrant hubs, and it’s enabling the groups using them to become stronger and more independent.”

For more information, please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/communityinvolvement, call 01268 465080, email [email protected], or tweet @community_invol

NEED HELP GETTING COMMUNITY FUNDING FOR YOUR NEXT PROJECT?

ARE YOU 15 -19 YEARS OLD FROM BASILDON BOROUGH AND WANT TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT FURTHER EDUCATION OR

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE TO YOU?Come along with your parent to:

Your Future 2014 – Parents’ Evening

Monday 6th October 2014

4pm-7:30pm

Towngate Theatre St. Martin’s Square

Basildon

FUNDING AVAILABLE£1MILLION COMMUNITY INVESTMENT FUNDMinimum amount of £2,000 per groupDeadline for applications is February 1, 2015 or once all funds have been allocated (whichever date is sooner).

GRANTS TO ORGANISATIONS FUNDMaximum amount of £2,000 per groupDeadline for applications is December 31, 2014

For more information on these and other grants available, please visit www.basildon.gov.uk/grants

Continued from page 3...

It also laid a new fl oor covering, replaced the ceiling, redecorated and fi tted new lighting.Pre-school managers, Donna Surridge and

Tracey Hill agree the new home is bringing a much-needed return to normality, especially for the children.“Basildon Council has been fantastic over this,” enthused Donna, “its staff have been mega-helpful and the decision to refurbish the community centre and give us a new home has meant we can provide the type of pre-school facilities our Five

Links mums and dads really need.”Tracey added: “We’ve got to say thank you to Five Links Residents’ Association and the craft club for letting us share the building with them. The council has been absolutely brilliant too.”Cllr Terri Sargent, the council’s cabinet member for community and environment, said: “Since the fi re we made it a priority to fi nd alternative accommodation for the groups using the community centre, so it’s gratifying to see Busy Bees and the other groups once again operating in a facility that’s fi t for purpose.”The priority now, of course, is to fi nd a lasting

solution for providing community-led facilities at Five Links that’s acceptable to all the groups seeking permanent homes.”Basildon Council will review the situation in a year’s time and decide if Busy Bees can stay in the new community facility long-term.Meanwhile, the building is available for local groups to hire and use. It can accommodate children’s parties, community meetings or club get-togethers. To book the hall, please call 01268 533333 and ask for hall bookings or email [email protected]

New Community CentreOpens

AUTUMN 201414

SWAP HOMES TO GET MOVINGSWAP HOMES TO GET MOVINGFacebook.com/basildonboroughcouncil

MORE than 100 potential home swappers turned

out an event to raise awareness and advice on

mutual exchange services.

Held over the summer, the event was jointly run by

Basildon Council, Basildon Citizens Advice Bureau, Swan

Housing, Family Mosaic, London Quadrant and Circle

Anglia to promote mutual exchanges via Homeswapper.

Cllr Phil Turner, leader of Basildon Borough Council,

said: “I am pleased so many people turned out to fi nd

out more about mutual exchange and hopefully it will

lead to some successful swaps.

“The council offers tenants the Homeswapper

service, the UK’s largest home swapping service, free

of charge to tenants. This event aimed to offer advice

to those interested in moving.”

Kathy Peach, manager at Basildon Citizens Advice

Bureau, said: “Social tenants in Basildon are faced

with huge challenges especially if they are under

occupying or over occupying their home.

“Basildon Borough Citizens Advice Bureau is

delighted to be working in partnership with local

providers of social housing, statutory and voluntary

organisations to help local residents move to more

appropriate accommodation and balance their

household budgets.”

If you were unable to attend on the day and wish to

know more about the options available to you then

you can contact us by calling 01268 533333 and

asking for the relevant department or via our website

www.basildon.gov.uk

Basildon Borough Citizens Advice Bureau - Debt collectorsT h i s q u a r t e r we look at a t y p i c a l problem f a c e d

by some of our

residents:

‘I’ve received a letter from a bailiff fi rm saying that they are going to come and collect a debt. I’ve seen stories in the news about how bailiffs operate, and I’m worried that they will come to my house before I can sort out a repayment plan. Is there anything I can do to protect myself?

Our advice:Basildon Borough Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) has helped many residents deal with bailiffs. We do still see evidence of bailiffs breaking the rules, so it’s important that you know your rights if a bailiff turns up on your doorstep. At the beginning of April this year, the government introduced new regulations to give people better protection.

The new rules mean they have to write to you to tell you that they have been told to collect the debt so that you have the chance to arrange payment. Bailiffs are no longer allowed to enter your home between 9pm and 6am, when there are only children under 16 or vulnerable people present, or through an open window.

Vulnerable debtors are also given more protection, as they must now be given an opportunity to get advice and assistance from an organisation like the CAB.

Bailiffs do have the right to charge fees, although there are now set fees they can charge you at different stages of the process.

Your debt could just get bigger if you ignore them. The CAB can help you to check what the bailiff is allowed to take and how much they can charge you in fees.

If you are concerned about the behaviour of a bailiff, you can complain to the bailiff fi rm or the company you owe the original debt to. You might also be able to complain to an Ombudsman.

If you are in a situation where you are dealing with bailiffs or struggling with other debts then you can seek free, confi dential, impartial and non judgemental help from your local CAB in either Basildon, Billericay or Wickford. We will work with you to fi nd the best solution to help put your household fi nances back on track.

You can fi nd our opening times at www.adviceguide.org.uk or call for help and advice on 0844 477 0808 or 0300 456 2595 (from a mobile)

Citizens Advice can then help explain what your rights are, what a bailiff is and isn’t allowed to do, as well as guiding you through the process of making a complaint, should you need to.

TIME TO END MENTAL HEALTH TIME TO END MENTAL HEALTH DISCRIMINATIONDISCRIMINATION

Basildon Council is the fi rst local authority in Essex to publicly ‘pledge’ its commitment to addressing mental health

wellbeing in the workplace. The council’s Chief Executive, Bala Mahendran, signed the pledge as part of the ‘Time to

Change’ anti-stigma campaign, run by the leading mental health charities, Mind and Rethink Mental Illness.

1 in 4 people in the UK will experience mental health problems this year.

Basildon Council’s Chief Executive Bala Mahendran

Now you can have a cuppa while improving your job prospects as Wickford’s ‘more than a job club’ moves to the recently opened Poppy Pavilion Memorial Park Café in Wickford Memorial Park.

The job club, previously located at Highcliffe Children’s Centre, now runs every Friday from 9:30am to noon, and is keen to recruit more volunteers to get involved.

Organised by Wickford Community

Projects and supported by Basildon Council, the club offers drop in sessions for people of all ages to get help writing their CVs, guidance on completing job application forms, interview advice, basic IT support, as well as other support.

Thanks to the tremendous efforts of local businesses and volunteers, the café acts as a volunteering hub and training centre for young people keen to gain

experience of the working world, develop new skills and earn qualifi cations.

For more information, and/or to volunteer at the café or job club, please contact Wickford’s Community Development Offi cer on 07715752 648, email [email protected]/ or visit the club at: The Poppy Pavilion Memorial Park Café, Wickford Memorial Park Wickford, Essex, SS11 8LN.

Have a cuppa while you fi nd your dream job

BASILDON Council is continuing to run its ‘Pride in your Area’ days throughout the borough.

So far the council has organised eight of 12 planned ‘Pride in your area’ days, with the rest to be completed over the next couple of months.

The pride days are an opportunity for residents to dispose of bulkier items that wouldn’t be collected in normal weekly collections. Council offi cers also carry out graffi ti removal, deep cleansing and litter picking.

IF you are new to the borough, visit www.basildon.gov.uk/recycling to fi nd out how to make the most of your recycling collections.

If you have any queries or require any of the recycling containers for food/garden waste, glass bottles or mixed dry recyclables, you can email [email protected]

Eight down, four to goEight down, four to go

New to the borough? New to the borough? Make the most of your Make the most of your recyclingrecycling

15AUTUMN 2014

NEWS FROM (THE COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT TEAM)

Follow us on Twitter:

@community_invol

Visit our webpage:

www.basildon.gov.uk/communityinvolvement

Email us:

[email protected]

Twitter @basildoncouncil

Young Persons Alcohol Conference

Remembering The Fallen

Young people will gather together on Wednesday 26 November 2014 at the Wat Tyler Green Centre to learn about and discuss the effects that alcohol can have on them, their lives, their families and the neighbourhood they live in.

Organised by Basildon Community Safety Partnership,

this will be the third alcohol conference delivered, which aims to give young people the opportunity to meet and share information relating to alcohol and the impact it can have.

The event targets Year 9 students (13 –14 year olds), as research has indicated this age group is the most susceptible to alcohol

misuse. Making students aware of some of the dangers will enable young people to make informed choices and help to bust some of the myths surrounding the use of alcohol.

For more information on the event please contact Claire Bridger, Health Outreach Worker at [email protected]

The CommunityThe newly formed King Edward Community Association is a group of volunteers passionate about their community. Since forming they have set up a “Community Cuppa” session, which runs every Tuesday from 1:30pm to 2:30pm at King Edward Community Centre, Laindon. People can meet for refreshments, socialise, play bingo and fi nd out what’s going on in their local area.

Community Development Offi cer, Michelle Fairchild, who has been working with the group to get them off the ground, said: “Seeing this

group develop and fl ourish has been really rewarding. There has been a great response from local people, which shows there is a real need in the area for a place where people can meet and exchange information.”

There is also regular bingo sessions which run every other Thursday evening from 6.30pm to 9pm.

For more information on any of the activities on offer, contact Michelle Fairchild, Community Development Offi cer on 01268 294850 or by e-mail on [email protected]

A committee of residents from Sheltered Housing Schemes across Vange and Pitsea organised a Commemoration Day in August for the WWI Centenary. After successfully applying for funding from Basildon Council’s WWI Fund, the event organisers set about with great gusto to arrange the day. The event was attended

by more than 100 sheltered housing scheme residents, who were invited to a day of remembrance and commemoration. Attendees enjoyed free transport, a fantastic buffet lunch, songs from the time, an exhibition of WWI posters, facts and personal stories from soldiers of Britain, USA and Germany. WWI Service Personnel were remembered with a minute silence and residents heard

words of remembrance and the personal story of WWII veteran Patrick Hines. Enid Slade, a resident at the

Bartlow Side scheme said: “The day was absolutely amazing and enjoyed by me and everyone that attended.” Vice-Chair of the committee Peter Wagner said “I think the day was a huge success and would like to thank everyone involved, for all their hard work.”The committee would like

to specially thank Basildon Community Transport, Adams Catering, Vocalist Diane Moore and staff involved in supporting the event from Basildon Council.The resounding success of

the event has spurred the Committee on and they are already considering what events to organise in the future.

Cuppa @ King Edward

AUTUMN 201416

Basildon Borough Council, The Basildon Centre, St Martin’s Square, Basildon, Essex, SS14 1DL.

Website: www.basildon.gov.uk Switchboard: 01268 533333 Email: [email protected]

Chief Executive: Bala Mahendran Leader: Councillor Phil Turner

Printed on recycled paper.Please recycle your

Borough Diary after reading.

Noak Bridge nature reserve’s £10k improvements grant

WAT TYLER GETS £80K REVAMP

SWIM AND FITNESS CENTRE ON TRACK FOR OCTOBER LAUNCH

THE NOAK Bridge Nature Reserve Society is overjoyed to have received £10,000 from Basildon Council’s Community Improvement Fund to carry out improvement works to walkways, steps and handrails which now give visitors better access to areas in the reserve.

The success of the funding received came as a direct result of the joint effort by Basildon Council that owns and maintains the reserve with help and support of volunteers from Noak Bridge Nature Reserve Society.

Ray Batty, Noak Bridge Nature Reserve Society Chair said: “I am very happy with the improvements being made to the reserve because it will make life better for its visitors including the young mothers with their pushchairs and the regular senior citizen walking groups that use our facilities. We also want to thank Basildon Council for its help to support this project.”

Cllr Kevin Blake, deputy leader and cabinet member for leisure and arts hopes the new improvements will attract more visitors to

the park, he said: “We care about our nature reserves and open spaces in Basildon and we really want to make sure that our visitors get to see its mix of habitats and also to enjoy the range of activities on offer.

“The support of volunteers from Noak Bridge Nature Reserve Society and the Countryside Ranger, Mark Williams has been tremendous and we hope this continues.”

The reserve which is located in Eastfi eld Road, Noak Bridge is surrounded by a rich mix of wildlife which covers 20 acres and is an excellent place for dragonfl ies and damselfl ies, butterfl ies and visiting warblers. There are also several ponds, open fl ower rich grasslands and developing woodland.

Basildon Council’s Countryside Services has also been awarded £54,150 from Veolia North Thames Trusts (VNTT) to carry further improvements to the reserve which will be used to improve other walkways in the reserve.

For information about activities at Noak Bridge Nature reserve visit www.nbnrs.org.uk/

YOUNGSTERS can now get to enjoy a new

playground at Wat Tyler Country Park which has

a new multi play area with climbing, sliding and

swinging equipment.

The new play area, located in Pitsea, was revamped

in the summer and is a great place for all the family to

visit. Surrounded by 125 acres of stunning parkland to

explore, it has a range of activities from pond dipping

to arts and craft workshops for all ages to enjoy.

Cllr Kevin Blake, deputy leader and cabinet member

for arts and leisure, is overjoyed with the new play

area. He said: “Wat Tyler is going from strength to

strength. The new play equipment is well looked after

and used by local residents, and I’m delighted the old

playground has been replaced. Veolia has been a great

supporter of Wat Tyler and I can’t thank them enough.”

Over the past 14 years Veolia

Trust North Thames Trust have

donated over £1.5 million to

Wat Tyler, which included

grants for the educational

Green Centre, miniature train

and security fencing.

The park, which is run by

Basildon Council, received

£60,000 of funding from

Veolia Trust North Thames

with the other £20,000 coming

from Basildon Council’s leisure services to make

improvements to the play area.

WICKFORD residents are anticipating a fi tter future as construction work on their new swimming pool and fi tness centre is on schedule for October’s grand opening.

Contractors are fi nalising the two-storey extension, which will feature a 65-station gym, group exercise and cycling studios and dry-side changing facilities. The £2.4m scheme has already seen an upgrade to the 25 metre pool, with new showers and locker rooms.

Basildon Council is working with its leisure partner, Everyone Active, to transform the 1970s facility in Market Road into the new Wickford Swim and Fitness Centre.

It’s envisaged the centre will become a real benefi t to the local community, attracting more visitors and boosting

the local economy.Cllr Kevin Blake, the council’s

portfolio holder for leisure and arts said: “We need to make Wickford town centre a place where people, and families in particular, want to be, so it’s important we create excellent leisure facilities.

“I’m looking forward to welcoming new users from Wickford, and perhaps further afi eld, to try out the new facilities on offer; let’s hope many will be encouraged to take up active hobbies.”

To celebrate the new centre, Everyone Active is offering 500 lifetime memberships at a special price of just £29.99. Call 01268 765460 or visit http://www.everyoneactive.c o m / C e n t r e / W i c k f o r d -Swimming-Pool/10/Home for details. (L-R) Contractors looking over the plans for the new centre, the

swimming pool and fi tness centre under construction

Borough Diary- Autumn 2014 edition

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Transcript of Borough Diary- Autumn 2014 edition