Borough Bulletin - Issue 111

Issue 111, winter 2015
Fordbridge Park, Ashford
www.spelthorne.gov.uk
2
Dear residents,
Spelthorne Council produces a
monthly electronic newsletter
containing Council news, events,
planning applications and more.
To receive the newsletter visit
www.spelthorne.gov.uk/enews
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Engage App to report issues, pay bills
and keep up-to-date.
SpelthorneCouncil
@spelthornebc
Photo credit: Mike Farenden
eNews - keep in touch
I am very excited and humbled to
be appointed as the new Leader of
the Council, following the sad and
unexpected death of Councillor Robert
Watts in early October. I am proud
to have the opportunity to build on
his legacy and lead the Cabinet as
we set to work on ensuring that the Council
continues to be efficient and well-run; investing
in the future and making decisions that put the
interests of residents first.
There will be difficult decisions ahead, especially when it comes to finding
the necessary budget savings within the Council, but I have a good team
of talented individuals with fresh ideas and a clear vision of what it will take
to make our Borough an even better place to live.
www.spelthorne.gov.uk/spelthorneapp
I wish you and your family a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year.
Council meetings
Sign up to the ‘My Alerts’ service
to receive regular emails from the
Council which include rubbish/
recycling collection reminders, local
planning applications, job vacancies,
events and news. To register visit
http://my.spelthorne.gov.uk/?tab=3
CDs and large print
copies of the Bulletin
are available for blind
or partially sighted
residents, please email
[email protected]
or call 01784 444260.
The Bulletin is our community magazine produced by
Spelthorne Council, Council Offices, Knowle Green,
Staines-upon-Thames, TW18 1XB. Delivered free to every
home in Spelthorne. Circulation 40,000.
Website: www.spelthorne.gov.uk
General enquiries: 01784 451499
Bulletin enquiries: 01784 446297 / 01784 444260
Editor: Dawn Morrison / Louise King
Design: Vicky Ellis
Cover photo credit: Julia Paxton
Advertising enquiries: Send an email to Sue Todd at
Frontline Design at [email protected]
or call 01342 312570. Spelthorne Borough Council does
not accept responsibility for, or endorse, any products or
services offered by advertisers.
Your local MP is Kwasi Kwarteng.
Address: House of Commons, London, SW1A 0AA
Website: www.kwasi4spelthorne.org.uk
email: [email protected]
Telephone: 0207 219 4017
Kwasi Kwarteng MP holds regular advice surgeries on Friday
afternoons at his constituency office, 55 Cherry Orchard,
Staines-upon-Thames, TW18 2SQ. For an appointment email
Sarah at [email protected] or call 0207 219 4017.
Printed on recycled paper. Please recycle after use.
email [email protected] or call 07703 887757.
Dear residents,
The year has flown by again and it hardly seems
possible that I am already more than half-way
through my term as Mayor. In October, I was
so saddened to hear of the death of our good
friend and colleague, Cllr Robert Watts. He was
a fantastic champion for Spelthorne and will be
greatly missed.
ke Far en de n
My Alerts
Cllr Quentin Edgington, Council Leader.
Photo cre dit : Mi
For a list of all the Council meetings,
please visit www.spelthorne.gov.uk/
councillors-committees and
select ‘calendar of meetings’ or call
Committee Services on 01784 451499.
I would like to say how much Catherine and I have
enjoyed meeting everyone at the various events
we’ve attended this year and thank you all for the
warm greetings. The Magna Carta events in June
were fantastic and I’m pleased so many residents joined in the celebrations.
The 25th anniversary of our twinning with Melun in November was also a
very special event and it’s excellent that we are maintaining our close links
and friendship with the town.
Thanks, as always, must go to all the volunteers in Spelthorne who work so
hard to bring the community together and improve the lives of others. We
are so grateful for all that you do in the Borough.
Thank you also to everyone for helping to raise money for my chosen
charities – the Samaritans, the Well and the Fordbridge Centre. They are
three fantastic organisations and the funds raised will help them to continue
their excellent work, right here in Spelthorne.
Finally, I would like to send you my very best wishes for a wonderful
Christmas and a peaceful New Year.
Cllr Mark Francis, Mayor of Spelthorne.
email [email protected] or call 01784 446275.
3
Heathrow Challenge at Echelford Primary School September 2015
Photo credit: Heathrow
It was with regret and sadness
that Spelthorne Council announced
the tragic death of Council Leader,
Cllr Robert Watts, after a house fire at
his home in Shepperton on 5 October
2015.
Photo credit: Vicky Ellis
A tribute to
Cllr Robert Watts
During Cllr Watts’ tenure the Council set its
priorities for the remainder of the administrative
term. These were with a view to the long
term future and sustainability of the authority
in the context of dwindling funds from central
government.
Chief Executive of Spelthorne Borough Council,
Roberto Tambini said: “We are all terribly shocked
by this sad news. Robert had a passion for
politics and an unfaltering desire to improve the
lives of the Borough’s residents and the place
will be all the poorer without him. I very much
enjoyed working with Robert and will miss him
greatly.”
At the Joint Enforcement Team Launch with Cllr Penny Forbes-Forsyth
(back row, centre) and Kevin Hurley Police and Crime Commissioner
(back row, right)- December 2014
with the flood
Helping the military
ruary 2014
Feb
s
ort
eff
ry
ove
rec
rne Council
Pho to credit: Speltho
Laying the foundations for the
Sir William Perkins’s School
Rowing Boathouse - January
2015
Fellow Shepperton Town ward councillor Robin
Sider said: “Robert was a great friend and
colleague and his untimely death has left a large
void in our ward. He lived to work hard for the
community and will be sadly missed by all.”
At the opening of the Greeno Shed in Shepperton with Cllr Pinkerton
(left) - March 2015
4
Photo credit: Vicky Ellis
His engineering background and experience gave
him the ability to see the overall picture of difficult
or complex projects and this together with his
in-depth knowledge of local government, took
him within two years to the position of Leader.
Photo credit: Vicky Ellis
Perhaps a natural next step was for Cllr Watts to
stand for election as a local councillor. He was
first elected in 2011 as a Conservative member
for Shepperton Town. He immediately took on
the role of Cabinet Member for the Environment,
during which he oversaw the introduction of the
successful food waste collection initiative.
Cllr Watts with Roberto Tambini, Chief Executive of Spelthorne
Council (left) and Kwasi Kwarteng MP (right) at the Magna Carta 800th
anniversary Service of Commemoration - March 2015
Photo credit: Vicky Ellis
When Cllr Watts took early retirement in 2009 he
decided to devote his attention to his local area of
Shepperton and became very much involved with
Shepperton Residents’ Association, of which he
was vice-chair for a number of years. During that
time he was also a member of the Community
Liaison Group for the Eco Park, and member of
the Shepperton Regeneration Group.
Photo credit: Vicky Ellis
After Secondary Education locally,
Cllr Watts obtained an Honours degree
in Civil Engineering. He then embarked
on a career in engineering during which
he was involved in a vast number
of infrastructure projects in the UK as well as
spending two years in Algeria.
5
Small electricals
Declutter that wardrobe
From 14 December we will be able to collect your small
electrical items on the same day as your textiles. Just put
the unwanted items (eg toaster, kettle, hairdryer) into a
small carrier bag (or the clear plastic bag provided in your
envelope) and leave it by your bin on your collection day.
The items will be recycled so they do not need to be in
working order.
Make room for new clothes this Christmas by using our
textile collection service. Just put your textiles - whatever
condition they are in - into carrier bags (or the clear plastic
bags provided in your envelope), tie the top and leave the
bags by your bin on your collection day.
Items you can include:
Items you can include:
hairdryers/clippers/
straighteners
toasters/kettles
curtains/bed sheets
calculators/remote
controls/remote cars
mobile phones/
cameras/chargers
smoke detectors/
thermostats
This service is available to most but not all
households. If a collection date is not listed for you
at http://my.spelthorne.gov.uk it means you do not
currently receive this service. However, you can use the
clear plastic bag to take small electrical items to recycling
banks in the Borough (or to charity shops if in good
working order). Please don’t throw them away.
Visit www.spelthorne.gov.uk/smallelectrical for
more information.
shoes and slippers
(in pairs)
soft toys/cushions
Please do not include:
rugs and carpets
pillows and duvets
items with paint
or oil on them
This service is available to most but not all
households. If a collection date is not listed for you
at http://my.spelthorne.gov.uk it means you do not
currently receive this service. However, you can take
unwanted textiles to charity shops or recycling banks
across the Borough. Please don’t throw them away.
Visit www.spelthorne.gov.uk/textiles for more
information.
Your small electrical items will be collected on the same day as your textiles but
please do not put them in the same bag. To check when your small electrical and
textile collections take place, visit http://my.spelthorne.gov.uk or call 01784 451499.
6
lamps/torches
laptops/radios
blankets and towels
underwear/ accessories
clocks/watches
clothing
(any condition)
irons/power tools
Spelthorne
clear plastic
bags
With your Bulletin, you
should have received
an envelope containing
information on a collection
service for your unwanted
small electrical items plus
two clear plastic bags,
which can be used instead
of carrier bags (carrier
bags are fine but no black
sacks please). Your small
electrical items will be
collected on the same
day as your textiles but
please do not put them
in the same bag.
These clear plastic bags
are also available from
the Council Offices in
Knowle Green and Benwell,
Fordbridge, Greeno and
Staines Community
Centres. The bags are
made of recycled plastic.
For more information
on this joint collection
service and for locations of
textiles and small electrical
recycling banks, visit
www.spelthorne.gov.
uk/textiles or www.
spelthorne.gov.uk/
smallelectrical
Please note that your
textiles and small
electricals will be
collected by a different
crew to your rubbish/
recycling – please put
items out by 6am and
leave out all day.
Too big for your bin?
We are now working in partnership with the Surrey Reuse Network (SRN) who will
collect bulky household items from inside your home (eg furniture, fridges, beds,
sofas, cookers, televisions etc).
Arranging a collection
UÊ>ÀÀ>˜}iʜ˜ˆ˜iÊ>ÌÊwww.surreyreusenetwork.org.uk
UÊi“>ˆÊ[email protected] providing your name, contact
telephone number and items to be collected
UÊV>Ê̅iÊ-ÕÀÀiÞÊ,iÕÃiÊ iÌܜÀŽÊœ˜Ê0800 0820180 (please leave a message if no
answer)
Cost
The cost is £44 for up to 5 items or £57 for 6-8 items. These are collected from
inside your property on any floor; please do not put items outside as they will
not be collected. Contact Surrey Reuse Network for a quote for additional items.
There is a discounted charge of £35 for those on certain benefits.
Alternatively take your bulky items to the Community Recycling Centre (tip) at
Charlton Lane, Shepperton or contact local charities who often collect items in good
condition for free.
If you have rubbish that is not suitable for reuse or recycling (eg building rubble,
hazardous waste, garden waste) please contact our Streetscene department for a
removal quote on 01784 446411. If you allow someone to take your rubbish away,
please make sure they are authorised to do so and will dispose of it correctly. You
can be held liable if they illegally dump your rubbish.
7
8
Photo credit: Vicky Ellis
Ashford multi-storey car park
Celebrations at opening of
Stone Gate Court
Stone Gate Court, a new housing development in
Staines-upon-Thames, was officially opened in October.
Built by Bellway Homes at the site of the old Crooked
Billet, the development contains 29 one, two and threebedroom flats. Spelthorne Council invested £1m in the
development to secure nomination rights to all 29 flats
at Stone Gate Court and provide accommodation for
families on the Council’s Housing Register, including
some currently placed in Bed and Breakfast (B&B)
accommodation.
Photo cre dit
: Vi ck y Ellis
Spelthorne Council recently announced that grocery
retail chain, Lidl UK, has successfully bid to purchase
the site of the multi-storey car park in Ashford. The
retailer is planning to build a new supermarket with
18 residential units and an underground car park
for customers and residents. Subject to obtaining
planning approval, Lidl hope to open the new store by
the end of 2017.
More details will appear in future editions of the
Bulletin and on the Council’s website.
If you have a question about this project, contact
Catherine Munro, Joint Head of Asset Management,
by email at [email protected] or call
01784 446317.
cil,
thorne Coun
es from Spel
ng
si
ou
H
y
lle
Representativ
Va
es, Thames
g
Bellway Hom
at the openin
CA
H
e
th
d
an
Photo credi t: Vicky Ellis
Continuing improvements in Ashford
Pho to credit: Vick y Ellis
Thanks to Surrey
County Council,
Church Road has also
benefitted from the
introduction of a new
raised flower bed
opposite the Atrium
Business Centre.
Photo credit: Spelthorne Council
Work by local organisations to improve land next to the
footpath leading to Ashford Train Station will continue
into the spring. More details and photographs will
appear in the next edition of the Bulletin.
Improvements at Sunbury Cross
Spelthorne Council has made a successful bid
to receive £6K from the Surrey Police and Crime
Commissioners office to help fund improvements at
Sunbury Cross, something which has been requested
by local residents.
Stone Gate Cour t
ex terior and interior
Throughout the winter months and into the New Year,
the community safety team will be working to replace
old signage, organising a deep clean of the subways
and generally making the area a more pleasant place
for local residents.
The flats will be let by Thames Valley Housing
Association, one of the Council’s partner Housing
Associations.
For information email Paul Smith, Community
Safety Officer, at [email protected] or call
01784 446322.
For more details email Spelthorne Council at
[email protected] or call
01784 451499.
9
Artists impression: supplied by Bellway Homes
Bridge Street redevelopment moves one step closer
In July 2015, the Council signed an agreement with Bellway Homes for the purchase of Bridge Street car park in
Staines-upon-Thames for the development of high quality housing. Residents will no doubt have lots of queries as the
scheme moves forward and these are some of the questions we have received so far.
Why is the Council selling the site?
Councils are facing ever increasing budget cuts from
Central Government. We have therefore developed a clear
strategy to ensure that by April 2020 the Council can be
self-funding. This has meant making hard decisions around
whether we sell any of our land for redevelopment. Bridge
Street car park has a prime riverside location and gives us
the chance to secure the best financial deal possible.
Will local people be consulted about the scheme?
Yes. Bellway held public consultations on 19 October at
The Bells Pub and 24 November at the Thames Lodge
Hotel. They were well attended and attracted many
visitors. Bellway have considered the comments received.
There is a dedicated website http://bellwaybridgestreet.
co.uk where residents can look at the proposals and make
comments.
When will the Council get the money?
Bellway will have to secure planning permission before we
hand over the site.
When will building work start?
A planning application is expected at the end of 2015
or early 2016 with a decision in spring 2016. If planning
permission is granted, work could start as soon as
summer 2016 and last for up to two years.
What will happen to the money the Council receive?
The money will be reinvested in a number of ways to
give the Council an on-going income stream. This will
then be used to help support the provision of services for
residents.
Artists impression: supplied by Bellway Homes
What is Bellway proposing?
The proposals are for a new landmark apartment building,
new restaurant café with an outdoor terrace area
overlooking the river and extensive landscaping to enhance
the river frontage. As well as private garden space for
the new apartments there will be public gardens for all to
enjoy and improved pedestrian routes.
How does this fit with the Council’s strategy for
Staines-upon-Thames?
The development of the car park will be the first stage in
a long journey of development and improvement in the
town. In the past, Staines-upon-Thames has suffered from
a reputation it does not deserve.
This site represents a unique opportunity to create a
development which sets a new benchmark for the town.
We need to ensure that this, and other developments, not
only set the record straight but showcase the town to the
best of its abilities and highlight the unsung hero of the
town, the River Thames.
10
For further information please contact Heather Morgan,
Staines-upon-Thames Regeneration Manager by email
[email protected] or call 01784 446352.
news in brief
Council Tax e-billing
Did you know you can choose to receive your Council
Tax bill by email rather than by post? It’s faster,
reduces printing and postage costs and enables you
to view your Council Tax account at any time.
To sign for e-billing, please visit:
www.spelthorne.gov.uk/ebilling
SurreySave Credit Union
Spelthorne goes mobile
Spelthorne Council recently relaunched its mobile app to
make it easier for residents to contact the Council and find
out about local services.
The free app can be downloaded to any smart phone
or tablet and gives residents access to Council services
whilst on the move – no need to make phone calls or log
on to the website. The app includes:
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Download the app from the App Store, Windows Store
or Google Play.
SurreySave Credit Union
brings people together to help
each other. Local people save
with us and we then lend to
local people. This is known as ‘community banking’.
We offer: instant access savings accounts, flexible
loans*, loan protection insurance (free)*, Visa debit
cards with rewards (no credit check required) and a
community organisation savings account.
To save or borrow from us you need to become
a member, there is a one off membership fee of
£3. Your money is safe as we are protected by the
Financial Service Compensation Scheme.
To find out more visit www.surreysave.co.uk,
email [email protected] or call 01932 339290.
*T&C’s apply
Tell Us Once
The average bereaved family contacts central and
local government seven or eight times following a
bereavement. Tell Us Once is a free service that
allows you to tell multiple government agencies
about a death, at the same time.
Ask the Local Registrar for more details.
Please visit www.gov.uk or call 0800 085 7308.
New leader for Spelthorne
Business Forum
Mike Ramlakhan has been announced
as the new Chairman of the Spelthorne
Business Forum (SBF). Mike takes
over from Sabine Capes who left in
May to take up her new role as a local
councillor for the Staines South ward.
Mike previously served as the SBF Vice chairman and
on the board of the Ashford Pride Town Team. He
has been Director of an Ashford based IT company
for 12 years and is passionate about supporting
economic development in Spelthorne.
Tracey Carter from the Surrey Chambers of
Commerce has been appointed as Vice Chairman.
For more details email [email protected]
or call 01784 444223.
Follow SBF on Twitter:
@sbf_spelthorne
11
Beware bogus charity collectors
Generous Spelthorne residents are urged to be on their guard against bogus
charity collectors preying on people’s good will this Christmas.
Charitable organisations need to have a local council permit or Cabinet Office exemption
certificate to be able to collect in the street, house to house or in pubs and clubs.
While most charity collectors are genuine, we would urge Christmas shoppers, party goers and
people enjoying the festivities to make sure bogus collectors do not profit from their generosity at
this time of year.
Top tips for ensuring charity collectors are genuine:
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the charity
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Registered charities will have a charity number which can be
checked with the Charity Commission
UÊV…iVŽÊ̅iʘ>“iʜvÊ̅iÊV…>ÀˆÌÞÊ̅iÞÊ>ÀiÊVœiV̈˜}ÊvœÀÊ>˜`ÊLiÊ
wary of collections that refer to vague causes such as ‘families
in need’, ‘sick children at Christmas’ or ‘the homeless’.
To report any suspicious collectors, contact the Council’s
Licensing Team by email at [email protected] or
call 01784 446439.
Christmas
lunches
be available at the
Christmas lunches will
perton from 8-11
Greeno Centre in Shep
person. The Centre is
December for £4 per
ndon on 18 December
also running a trip to Lo
hts followed by a fish
to see the Christmas lig
8 per person.
and chip supper for £1
Greeno Centre on
For more details call the
01932 246173.
Shepperton Big Tree Night
Come along to Shepperton’s ‘Big Tree Night’ on
Wednesday 9 December. This year’s theme is ‘a Victorian
Christmas’ and everyone is invited to join in the fun.
The event kicks off at 5.30pm in the High Street with
traditional carols around the Big Tree. After the carols you
can enjoy the entertainment and grab a bite to eat from
the wide variety of food which will be on offer. Father
Christmas will also be visiting with his reindeer and there
will also be plenty of other festive attractions including
craft stalls and rides for the children.
The High Street will be closed to traffic for preparations
from 4pm, with some side roads closing by 2pm (leaflets
will be left on cars and posted in shops nearer the time).
heels
Christmas Meals on W
r usual
We will be providing ou
up
ce
rvi
se
Meals on Wheels
as
tm
ris
Ch
to, and including,
a
Eve, and will also have
tmas
ris
Ch
limited service on
w
Ne
d
Day, Boxing Day an
Year’s Day.
change your usual
For more details or to
us on 01784 444265
arrangements, contact
r.
by Friday 11 Decembe
For more details, contact the organisers,
Shepperton and District Business Community,
by email at [email protected] or visit their
website at www.shepperton.biz
Christmas at the Centres
For the first time, the Fordbridge
Centre in
Ashford and Greeno Centre in She
pperton
will be open between Christmas
and New
Year on 29, 30 and 31 December.
The
Centres will open at 9am and clos
e at
2.30pm.
Call the Independent Living Team
on
01784 446389 for more details.
12
Seasonal rubbish, recycling and food waste collections
Collection Scheduled collection day
Rubbish
Rubbish
Recycling
Recycling
£
Revised collection day
Monday 21 December – Thursday 24 December £ No change
£ Monday 28 December
Friday 25 December
£ Tuesday 29 December
Monday 28 December
£ Wednesday 30 December
Tuesday 29 December
£ Thursday 31 December
Wednesday 30 December
£ Saturday 2 January
Thursday 31 December
£ Sunday 3 January
Friday 1 January
Monday 4 January – normal collections resume
Don’t forget to leave your bin kerbside by 6am on your collection day and make sure your bin lid is fully closed.
Festive recycling
Christmas can generate an increase in waste but a lot of festive items can be recycled, including: crackers, cards,
envelopes, bottles, cans, wrapping paper, cardboard packaging and food waste. Additional recycling can be left by the
side of your bin but please take any additional rubbish to the Community Recycling Centre in Charlton Lane, Shepperton.
To find out more about recycling, visit www.spelthorne.gov.uk/rubbishwasterecycling or call 01784 451499.
Garden waste collections
The garden waste collections finish soon and restart in February. For more details check your garden waste
calendar or visit: http://my.spelthorne.gov.uk
email [email protected] or call Customer Services on 01784 451499.
Christmas tree collections
Dining out this Christmas?
Spelthorne Council is offering a free kerbside collection of
real Christmas trees from 4 - 29 January 2016.
Before you book a restaurant or order
a takeaway this Christmas, make sure
you check the food hygiene rating at
We are not operating a booking system this year – simply
leave your tree on your property boundary by 6am on your
rubbish or recycling collection day.
http://ratings.food.gov.uk/spelthorne
Trees should not be decorated or left in pots or stands.
Visit http://ratings.food.gov.uk/
spelthorne or call Environmental Health
on 01784 446291.
Alternatively from 4 – 29 January 2016 you can take your
real tree to one of the following drop-off points:
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For further information please email
[email protected] or call
01784 446411.
closure
Council Office
le
ffices at Know
The Council O
es will
m
ha
-T
es-upon
in
ta
S
in
en
re
G
ay
2pm on Thursd
be closed from
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on Monday
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Are you registered to vote?
Councillor Robin Sider BEM has
been appointed as Spelthorne
Council’s new Armed Forces
Champion.
The role was created in April
2014 when the Council signed
the Armed Forces Community
Covenant, an important pledge
between the community and the military to
recognise, remember and respect the work carried
out by our armed forces.
Photo credit: Mike Farenden
Armed Forces Champion
Whilst Spelthorne does not have a military base, it
does have many past and present service personnel
in the community and was recently twinned with the
SE Regiment.
Cllr Sider said, “I am extremely proud to have been
appointed as Armed Forces Champion. As a former
army officer, I understand the challenges faced by
service men and women and their families. The
promises made in the Community Covenant are very
important to me and the Council and I am asking all
members of the armed forces community to tell me
about the suppor t that they require from us.”
For more details please email Cllr Robin Sider
at [email protected] or Michael
Graham, Head of Corporate Governance, at
[email protected]
Voluntary Action
in Spelthorne
Voluntary Action in Spelthorne (VAIS) is the
umbrella body and volunteer centre for the
voluntary, community, and faith sector in
Spelthorne.
To find out what opportunities are available
come along to one of our drop-in sessions
which are held throughout the Borough at a
variety of venues, six days a week.
Employees of local businesses are often
keen to offer their support in undertaking
projects to help in their community. VAIS
matches and sets up projects with the
group in need. This experience can help
to raise the profile of the business and
strengthen them as a team.
To check the date of our next
drop-in session, or for further
information about volunteering,
email VAIS at [email protected]
or call 01784 465536.
The Electoral Register was published on Tuesday 1
December 2015 and will remain in force until 30 November
2016. Anyone who finds that their name is not included
in the Register can go online at www.gov.uk/registerto-vote to make an application. If your application is
successful we will write to confirm this or, if further
information is required, we will contact you for the
additional details.
The new Electoral Register will be
used for the Police and Crime
Commissioner Elections which are
scheduled for Thursday 5 May 2016
and any other elections/referenda in
the year. If you will be away on this
date, you may apply for a postal vote
and Electoral Services can provide
further advice on this.
The Electoral Register is also used by Credit Referencing
Agencies to establish where people live when they apply
for any form of credit such as a mortgage, loan or hire
purchase agreement. Residents who find they are not on
the Electoral Register may find it more difficult to obtain
any form of credit.
Please check you are registered, either in person at the
Council Offices or via telephone or email.
email [email protected], or call
01784 444218.
Reporting Housing Benefit fraud
As a result of the introduction of the Single Fraud
Investigation Service (SFIS), all Housing Benefit fraud
investigations are now conducted by the Department of
Work and Pensions (DWP).
To report a suspected Housing Benefit fraud call the
DWP on 0800 854440. To report a suspected Council Tax
Support fraud call Spelthorne Council on 01784 446224.
Discretionary housing payments
Spelthorne Council has a limited fund to help people who
receive Housing Benefit and find they have a shortfall
between the amount of benefit they receive and the
amount of rent they need to pay. These payments are
awarded as a short-term measure for those in difficulty.
Please apply in writing to the Housing Benefit
department, Spelthorne Borough Council, Knowle Green,
Staines-upon-Thames, TW18 1XB.
Are you on a low income?
If you need help paying your rent or your Council Tax bill
you can see if you qualify for help. To receive a claim form
email benefi[email protected] or call 01784 446374.
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16
Winter MOT
Check whether you need any of the following to keep your
home warm this winter:
GI
Action Surrey can advise you about grants, low interest loans and free, no-obligation, quotes from their trusted
installer network.
Contact Action Surrey by email at [email protected] or call 0800 783 2503. www.actionsurrey.org
Flood alerts
Worried about flooding? Sign up
to receive free flood warnings by
phone, email or text.
Visit www.gov.uk/sign-up-for-flood-warnings
Smoke alarm reminder
Don’t forget to check that your smoke
alarm is still working correctly. By pressing
the test button on your alarm you can
check if the battery in your smoke alarm is
still charged and ready.
Protect your property this winter
The darker winter months give burglars more
opportunity to work unseen.
Important
information for landlords
The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide
Alarm
(England) Regulations 2015 came
into force
on 1 October which require private
landlords
to have smoke alarms installed in
their
proper ties, and a carbon monoxide
alarm
where solid fuel is used. Penaltie
s can be up
to £50 00 for non -compliance.
For more information contact
Environmental Health on 01784 446
251 or
Surrey Fire and Rescue on 01737
242444.
External lighting on overlooked parts of your
home - especially the front – reduces the risk
of burglary. It doesn’t need to be expensive or
intrusive floodlighting as just a low-wattage
bulkhead light will provide enough light.
Do also make sure that your side gate and fences are
secure, so that burglars can’t easily gain access and attack
rear doors and windows.
You can register your property free at www.immobilise.
com, a national database that police can access and
compare against items that have been found or recovered
from suspected criminals.
For further advice on crime reduction contact your
Surrey Police Crime Reduction Advisors by ringing 101.
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Photo credit: Spelthorne Council
Spelthorne’s Joint Enforcement Team
Spelthorne Council’s Joint Enforcement team is continuing to work hard to
tackle anti-social behaviour such as:UÊ`œ}ÊvœÕˆ˜}
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Spelthorne Council
A recent success includes the prosecution of three individuals for the illegal dumping of
waste in Laleham, Stanwell Moor and Sunbury-on-Thames and the team also recently issued
Spelthorne’s first Fixed Penalty Notice (an £80 fine) for dog fouling. We would like to thank the
resident who helped provide the necessary evidence. With the public’s help the Council can
take action against irresponsible dog owners and has launched a new campaign in conjunction
with Keep Britain Tidy to target dog fouling that occurs after dark.
We have a policy of pursuing unpaid fixed penalty notices for fly tipping, littering, dog fouling
and other similar offences in the courts where offenders risk higher fines and costs. A recent fly
tipping case taken to court by Spelthorne resulted in a criminal conviction plus a fine of £440, a
criminal court surcharge of £150 and costs of £670. A total of £1,260 compared to what was an
initial £80 Fixed Penalty Notice. There are currently 15 further cases waiting to go to Court.
The Joint Enforcement Officers have recently started using body worn cameras which are
a useful tool in providing a record of events and deterring aggressive behaviour. Looking to
the future, powers given to the team by the Chief Constable of Surrey Police are expected to
expand to deal with other forms of antisocial behaviour such as underage drinking and cycling
on pavements.
Photo credit: Spelthorne Council
To report a problem email the Joint Enforcement Team at [email protected]
or call 01784 446411.
We’re Watching You
Dog fouling is a key issue for residents and feedback
suggests that dog fouling tends to occur more at night
time and during the winter months as people feel they
can’t be seen ‘under the cover of darkness’. As such,
there is a feeling that some dog owners act irresponsibly
when they think they aren’t being watched.
To tackle this, Spelthorne Council has signed up to Keep
Britain Tidy’s new, edgy and uncompromising campaign
called ‘We’re Watching You’. The campaign signage
is visible after dark, using innovative and cutting-edge
materials. The signs ‘charge up’ during the day and glowin-the-dark at night.
The pilot of the Keep Britain Tidy campaign last year led
to an average 46% reduction in dog fouling across the
trial areas.
Cllr Joanne Sexton, Joint Deputy Leader and
Cabinet Member for Communications said:
“We want residents to know they can report
dog fouling to us in confidence and that, with
their help, we can make our Borough much cleaner”.
Report it in confidence, call us on: 01784 446411 or
complete the online form: www.spelthorne.gov.uk/foul
or via the Spelthorne app: www.spelthorne.gov.uk/
spelthorneapp
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Dementia support
The Spelthorne Dementia Support
Group is a local charity which aims to
improve the general understanding of
dementia so that people living with the
condition receive sympathetic support
from the wider community while still
living in their home.
The Greeno Shed
Calling all men who enjoy making
and mending things whilst at the
same time meeting new people. The
workshop is well-equipped with tools
and there is always someone to offer
advice if needed.
Key to their work is the free supply of
personal GPS trackers for local residents
with dementia. Carrying a GPS tracker
means an individual can be found should
they get lost while out and about.
To contact the Spelthorne Dementia Support Group email
[email protected], call 07770 057714 or visit www.sandsta.org
The Greeno Shed is open on
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays
from 9am to 12 noon. Please come
along to take part, or just for a chat
and a cuppa.
For details call 01932 246173.
Ready, steady, cook
The Fordbridge Centre in Ashford
will soon be starting cookery
lessons aimed at residents who
find themselves with the new
responsibility of cooking, such as
recently bereaved people or young
carers.
For more details call Jan Kinsella
on 01784 243880.
Accessible shower
The Fordbridge Centre in Ashford has
recently installed a fully-accessible
shower which is ideal for residents
who have just had an operation or
who find it difficult to use their bath.
For details call 01784 243880.
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Drive into action
Each year Surrey’s voluntary car schemes
help thousands of elderly and vulnerable
people across the county to get to hospital
appointments, collect prescriptions and
enjoy social events. Each one is run by
local volunteers for the benefit of their
communities, by providing lifts for those
who may not have easy access to transport.
Surrey County Council and Surrey Community Action, which
provides help to develop new schemes and on-going advice
and suppor t, have teamed up to boost the number of volunteer
drivers in the Borough.
Becoming a volunteer driver is easy and volunteers can give
as much or as little time as they choose, as well as decide the
days and times during which they are available.
For more information about how to become a volunteer
driver, contact Vicki Turton at Surrey Community Action by
email at [email protected] or call 01483 447121.
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Spelthorne
Spor ts Awards
Many congratulations to
the athletes, coaches
and volunteers who
were recognised for their
rne Sports Council
contribution to sport at the Speltho
meeting in November.
Category
Sports Personality of the
Year
Young Sports Personality
of the Year
Winner
Coach of the Year
Derek Henzell
Sports Team of the Year
Spelthorne Archers’
Compound Team
Outstanding Ser vice to
Sport
Bill Eadie
Volunteer of the Year
Malcolm Underwood
Thomas Bourne
Poppy Yates
For young people aged 5-25 years
and their siblings
When: Saturday mornings from
10.15-11.45am
(term time only)
Where: Spelthorne Leisure Cen
tre
Cost: £4 for the first child and
£2 for siblings,
payable on the day
For more information, please call
01784 446433 or
visit ww w.spelthorne.gov.uk/dis
abilitysportsclub
Young Volunteer of the
Sam Chappell
r
Yea
thorne.gov.uk or
For details email at leisure@spel
ne.gov.uk/leisure
call 01784 446433. ww w.spelthor
Photo credit: Spelthorne Council
a choir for carers
In partnership with Surrey Music Hub, Spelthorne and
Runnymede Councils are setting up a new free choir for
carers. It’s fun and sociable and provides a break from
caring. No previous musical experience necessary.
The choir meets on Fridays from 11am-12noon at Manor
Farm Wellbeing Centre, Manor Farm Lane, Egham,
TW20 9HR. The Centre can provide respite care for a
limited amount of people while carers participate in the
choir.
If you are interested in attending, contact the
Manor Farm Centre on 01784 435278.
www.spelthorne.gov.uk/leisure
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Due to essential maintenance work,
the swimming pool at Sunbury Leisure
Centre will be closed on 22, 23 and 24
December. Spelthorne Leisure Centre
will remain open during this time.
Spelthorne
Museum
Spelthorne Museum located in Staines
Library is a treasure trove of the Borough’s
long and fascinating history. See displays of
Ice Age and Roman artefacts, the original
London Stone of 1285, the origin of our
Saxon place names, Magna Carta, the
Stanwell connection with the Gunpowder
Plot of 1605, an original fire engine from
1738 and bygone local industries such as
linoleum manufacturing and boat building.
The museum is free to visit. Please visit
www.spelthornemuseum.org.uk for
opening times.
Fire engine, 1738
Photo credits: Vicky Ellis
w
Ne
Sing and
Mingle!
Sunbury swimming pool
Model of Roman
Winter ar t open day
Make winter-themed crafts includin
g a ‘frozen’
snowman, for children aged 4-11
years.
Christmas Art Trail
When: Tuesday 22 December
Times: 11am and 2pm. Walks last approx. 1 hour
Where: Memorial Gardens, Thames Street,
Staines-upon-Thames, TW18 4RH
Cost: free
When: Saturday 19 December,
10am-2pm
Where: Spelthorne Resource Cen
tre,
Staines Park, TW18 2QJ
Cost: £1 per child (50p for sibl
ings)
No need to book. A parent/carer
must be
present throughout.
Spelthorne Council is creating an updated Art Walk
leaflet which details a route for viewing the public
art in Staines-upon-Thames town centre.
To relaunch the leaflet in style we invite you to this
festive, fun and free event for all the family. Children
will be introduced to Christmas characters and be
asked to solve riddles along the route and who
knows, they may even meet Santa himself!
For details email [email protected] or
call 01784 446433. www.spelthorne.gov.uk/leisure
Commercial Road, TW18 2QJ
Do you or your family enjoy arts and crafts?
Why not become a member of the Spelthorne
Resource Centre located in Staines Park (yearly
fee applies). We also offer a variety of scrap
materials and an art shop for schools, colleges,
uniformed groups, playgroups, nurseries,
families and child minders.
8
n Staines-upon-Thames
To become a member
call 01784 461769 or visit
www.spelthorne.gov.uk/
resourcecentre
London Stone, 1285
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