Posts Tagged ‘Community’
Monday, July 25th, 2011
Nominate Crawley’s inspirational young people and make sure they’re recognised.
The Youth Awards 2011 is underway and Crawley Borough Council is accepting nomination forms.
Last years’ event was a sell-out again, rewarding more than 370 young people from across the town for their achievements.
Ellis Barton, 13, won last year’s Carer Recognition award for his dedication to his younger brother Toby who is severely autistic.
Ellis gives up his time, cuts short trips out and even accompanies his brother to swimming lessons, always putting Toby first; the Youth Awards was a fantastic way of recognising Ellis’ selfless acts.
And, St Margaret’s School in Ifield bagged the Environment award for their eco school status, recognising the efforts of many which also contribute to the community.
Now in its seventh year, the awards aim to celebrate and recognise young people who have made a real difference to Crawley and its community.
Organised by Crawley Borough Council, in partnership with West Sussex County Council Youth Service, Crawley School Sports Partnership, West Sussex Council for Voluntary Youth Services, Crawley Young Persons Council and Crawley Wellbeing, the young people will be awarded for their achievements in November.
Anyone can nominate a young person and the only criteria for nominees are that they are under 25 years old and they live in Crawley, or the reason for their nomination occurred within the town.
Those nominating young people under 16 must also get permission from the nominee’s parents or guardians first.
There are 12 awards in four categories, these are:
Community Awards:
Let’s FACE It! – Environment Award
Crawley Lions Club – Carer Recognition Award
Crawley Young Persons Council – Volunteer Award
Sports Awards:
EEZEHAUL – Young Sports Person of the Year Award
Freedom Leisure – Sports Team Award
Crawley School Sports Partnership – Sports Volunteer Award
Arts Awards:
Safer Crawley Partnership – Music Award
Topsy Turvy – Dance and Drama Award
Crawley Metal Supplies – Visual Arts Award
Personal Achievement Awards:
Apollo Group – Inspiration Award
Sussex Police – Courage Award
West Sussex County Council – Educational Achievement Award
If you would like to see an inspirational young person recognised then log onto www.crawley.gov.uk/yaa or pick up a nomination form from schools, youth centres, the Town Hall, K2 Crawley, The Hawth, Crawley Library, Topsy Turvy (town centre hairdresser) and Connexions. The deadline for nominations is 14th September, 2011.
Tags: Community, Crawley, crawley library, Henry Smith MP, Information, News Bulletins, Nominate a special young person, Updates
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Monday, July 25th, 2011
Buchan Country Park flagged up for national award
Buchan Country Park in Crawley is celebrating success after winning the national Green Flag Award for the second year in a row, it was announced today (Monday July 25).
The prestigious award is in recognition of the country park’s good maintenance and management, its high quality facilities and green space.
The park was judged on the following eight criteria:
• a welcoming place
• healthy, safe and secure
• clean and well maintained
• sustainability
• conservation and heritage
• community involvement
• marketing
• management
Lionel Barnard, West Sussex County Council Deputy Leader with responsibility for Communities, Environment and Enterprise, said: “This is a great achievement, especially to have been awarded it two years in a row.
“This prestigious award recognises the hard work and pride of the country park’s staff and volunteers, so well done to them.”
The country park now has the chance to receive a further award from the Green Flag Plus Partnership, called the People’s Choice Award. This award is voted for by the public. To register your vote, visit www.greenflagaward.org.uk
For more information about what Buchan Country Park has to offer visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/buchan
Tags: Allan Hambly, Buchan Country Park, charity, children, Community, Deborah Urquhart, Henry Smith MP, MP Henry Smith, News Bulletins, West Sussex County Council, www.greenflagaward.org.uk, www.westsussex.gov.uk/buchan
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Friday, July 22nd, 2011
Make your ideas a part of Crawley
Regenerating the town centre’s Station Way is vital to the success of the area and Crawley Council is asking people to help design it.
Station Way is a key town centre gateway, linking it with rail, bus and taxi transport and is important to wider town centre regeneration initiatives including Town Centre North.
The council wants the area to be more attractive, inviting and functional, reflecting the aspirations for the rest of the town and helping to create a successful town centre economy.
Local people can make themselves part of the vision by getting involved in a series of workshops and consultation at the beginning of August.
A specially appointed design team will be working in the County Mall on August 2-5 where an ever-changing display of design ideas for the area will be exhibited and the public are encouraged to join in and share their thoughts.
A feedback session and design workshop organised by Crawley Borough Council will also take place on August 3rd at 6.30pm at the Town Hall.
Councillor Claire Denman, Cabinet member for Planning and Economic Development said: There’s absolutely no doubt the area can be improved to increase the attractiveness to visitors and the functionality for local people, as well as start to portray a positive image for the town as a whole.
To meet our objectives we need to really understand how it will look, how it will work and how were going to meet the challenges. We want it to be innovative and aspirational but it also needs to be realistic and deliverable.
It’s certainly a challenge getting the design right but well also need to work in close partnership with a diverse range of land owners who may well have different ideas. It’s very exciting.
If you want to help design Crawley email Sarah Brown atsarah.brown@architecturecentre.org
Tags: Cabinet member for Planning and Economic Development, children, Community, Councillor Claire Denman, county, county mall, Make your ideas a part of Crawley, Updates
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Thursday, July 21st, 2011
Economic plan for town is launched
A new economic business plan for Crawley was agreed by Crawley Borough Council last night (Wednesday July 20).
The plan, titled Crawley’s Economic Plan (2011-16) In support of prosperity, sets out the council’s vision, role and purpose. It’s designed to be a short-term plan with a range of priority areas and activities which the council has a role in delivering.
The plans priorities are:
¢ Revitalise the town centre
¢ Enhance Manor Royal Business District
¢ Support the development of a sustainable Gatwick
¢ Encourage new business and local supply chain opportunities
¢ Contribute to the development of skilled and enterprising people and businesses
¢ Support housing supply and sustainable transport improvements
¢ Develop an economy noted for its environmental excellence.
The council is committed to supporting the economy and the plan is focussed on the next few critical years. To demonstrate that commitment the council is committed to reporting progress in public and inviting interested parties and the community to comment and contribute to the ongoing development and delivery of the plan.
The plan is also practical and focuses on areas where the council can make an impact.
Councillor Claire Denman, Cabinet member for Planning and Economic Development, said: Delivering the plan against a challenging economic backdrop will not be easy. The plan tries to balance ambition with realism.
Its an action-focussed plan and already the council is making progress in key areas including Manor Royal, the town centre and in housing and delivering important infrastructure.
The Local Economic Action Group has been a key partner in the development of the plan, letting the council know what’s important to the Crawley business community.
John Stapleton, Chair of the LEAG, said: delighted that the Crawley Economic Plan has been agreed. The LEAG and Crawley Borough Council are committed to working jointly to support the delivery of the plan over the next five years.
We will play an active role as a critical friend to the council and provide oversight to support the delivery of the plan.
For more information about the LEAG visit www.crawley.gov.uk/leag
Tags: Cabinet member for Planning and Economic Development, Community, Councillor Claire Denman, County council, crawley happy times, Economic plan for town is launched, Enhance Manor Royal Business District, News Bulletins, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, Updates, West Sussex
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Thursday, July 21st, 2011
CRASH COURSE IN ROAD SAFETY FOR HAYWARDS HEATH SHOPPERS
Firefighters will be giving shoppers a ‘crash course’ in road safety when they visit Orchards Shopping Centre in Haywards Heath on Wednesday 27th July.
The wreckage of a crashed car will take centre stage in a special road safety display by local fire crews and create a stark visual reminder of the dangers that drivers face on the roads.
Firefighters will be on hand from 8am until 6pm for people to chat to about all aspects of road safety and they will also be encouraging shoppers to test out special ‘beer goggles’ to experience for themselves how even a small amount of alcohol can impair their co-ordination and judgement.
The demonstration is just part of West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s ongoing campaign to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on the county’s roads. In Mid Sussex, in the past 6 months (Jan 1st-June 30th 2011) there have been 179 accidents on the roads and 3 people have lost their lives.
Crew Manager from Haywards Heath, Gary Miller, said:
“The crashed car certainly won’t be what people will be expecting to see when they are out shopping but we hope it will be an effective way to show the results of a road traffic accident up close and raise awareness of the risks posed by dangerous driving.
“As firefighters, cutting people out of car wreckages is, unfortunately, a job that we are frequently called upon to do. We will continue to work alongside other road safety partners to promote safer driving habits and reduce the number of accidents on local roads.”
Tags: children, Community, county, CRASH COURSE IN ROAD SAFETY FOR HAYWARDS HEATH SHOPPERS, Crew Manager from Haywards Heath, Gary Miller, News Bulletins, Orchards Shopping Centre in Haywards Heath, West Sussex, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service
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Tuesday, July 19th, 2011
Keep dancing at Open Weekend
A month-long Olympic inspired festival of dance, which culminates with Open Weekend, is underway.
Dance in Motion is part of Crawley in Motion, the name for sporting, cultural and community projects taking place in the town in the next 18 months, all inspired by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The events, co-ordinated by Crawley Borough Council, K2 Crawley and Crawley Schools Sports Partnership, will include demonstrations and lessons of all types of dance, from ballet to street and Bollywood to Zumba.
Dance in Motion began on July 2 with Bollywood, Portuguese, Irish, contemporary and street dancing demonstrations in Memorial Gardens as part of Crawley Festival Mainstage.
Open Weekend, from Friday 22ndJuly to Sunday 24th July, celebrates one year to go to the beginning of the London 2012 Olympic Games with free activities for all the family.
On Friday July 22, Run, Turtle! Run!, a fun theatre show based on Aesop’s fable, encourages physical activity and participation. It’s suitable for all ages and takes place at the Langley Green Centre at 2pm and the Bewbush Centre at 4pm.
Also on the Friday K2 Crawley hosts karate taster sessions from 8-8.45pm and 8.45-9.30pm. The sessions are run by British Karate Kyokushinkai, who host an international tournament the day after. Spectators are welcome at the tournament, also held at the leisure centre.
On Saturday 23rd July from 10am-4pm the LazyTown Sports Club comes to town.
This exciting physical activity programme motivates children to live better and combines all the movement, excitement, music and action of the LazyTown shows.
Free 45-minute sessions for children aged three to eight accompanied by parents start at 10am, 11am, 12 noon and 1.30pm.
At 3pm the Fitkid Grand Finale will feature a special appearance from Sportacus himself!
The event, at Healthy Balanced Generation at Oriel High School in Maidenbower, is part of Crawley’s Open Weekend to celebrate exactly one year to the start of the Olympics.
On Sunday 24th July from 12 noon-4.30pm the Finale Day at K2 Crawley includes free one-hour workshops in beginners’ ballroom and Latin dancing (12 noon), Michael Jackson workshop (12 noon), street dance class (1pm), children’s dance party (1pm) and a grand ball (1.30-4.30pm).
The grand ball finale ends the Dance in Motion festival and the 2011 Open Weekend in style with a wonderful afternoon of ballroom and Latin dance planned.
Dancers of all abilities are invited to join in the fun, which includes an exciting cabaret from top ballroom amateur couple Ian Sharpe and Victoria Lawrence, with music from top London dance DJ, Mr Wonderful.
Tickets cost £6.50 (concessions £4.50) including refreshments). To book online visit www.hawth.co.uk or call 01293 553636.
A free crèche and free climbing wall sessions will also be available from 12 noon-2pm. Places are limited so please book in advance with K2 Crawley.
At 1pm inChoir, a modern West Sussex choir, will sign songs not normally associated with choirs in a free concert at K2 Crawley. The group concentrates on having a good time and promoting the health benefits of singing.
The full line-up of events plus more information is available at www.crawley.gov.uk/inmotion or www.healthybalancedgeneration.co.uk
To reserve a place at any of dance classes please call 01293 438328.
Tags: Community, Councillor Lenny Walker, county, Crawley, K2, Keep dancing at Open Weekend, the hawth, Times
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Monday, July 18th, 2011
Henry Smith MP has welcomed the announcement by Network Rail of improvements to be made at Three Bridges train station which will enhance accessibility, facilities and the overall station environment for passengers.
Henry said:
“Three Bridges train station is a vital transport link for Crawley, with a large number of residents travelling to work from the station every morning. Therefore I’m delighted that these improvements have been announced by Network Rail.
“It’s essential that a commuter hotspot like Three Bridges station is accessible and comfortable for all passengers. With these improvements, I expect that frequent users of the station will see their commute improved, whilst also attracting new customers who will be eager to take advantage of the enhancements made.
“Today’s announcement comes on top of last October’s decision by Gatwick Airport to jointly fund with Network Rail a £53 million project of much needed improvements to Gatwick Train Station.”
Developing upon the first phase of improvements completed at the station last year, the recently started second stage will see enhancements including the creation of new waiting areas for passengers, relocation and refurbishment of the ticket gates and surrounding area, along with upgrading drainage to reduce the chances of standing water during wet weather.
Follow Henry daily on Facebook by visiting: www.facebook.com/henrysmithmp
Tags: children, Community, County council, Crawley MP Welcomes Improvements To Three Bridges Train Station, Henry Smith MP, Shelley Fagence-Traynor
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Thursday, July 14th, 2011
Henry Smith was pleased to learn today that the Big Lottery Fund has decided to invest almost £30,000 in local community projects.
Henry said:
“Historically Crawley community projects haven’t done very well in winning lottery grants but I’m delighted that’s changing following a campaign I’ve pursued to highlight the possibilities which exist through the lottery. The latest awards are very encouraging.
“If local voluntary groups or charities need further information on how to bid then I would be happy to help them make the right connection with the Big Lottery Fund.”
The Crawley Youth Centre has been awarded £9,750, the Crawley District Scout Council has been awarded £9,100 and Milton Mount Primary School has secured £10,000 to build a children’s adventure play trail for the local community.
Follow Henry daily on Facebook by visiting: www.facebook.com/henrysmithmp
How the Money will be spent
- The Crawley Youth Centre will use the funding to set up a new BME community club for older women, offering participatory activities such as games and excursions. It will also develop an existing club to include younger children, the groups will merge together on excursions. This will encourage younger children to engage with society at an earlier stage while offering older people a meeting place to socialise.
- The Crawley District Scout Council will use the funding to purchase equipment to provide activities to young people and will also renovate the scout hut. This will enable the group to improve its service and enable more community groups to use the facilities.
- Milton Mount Primary School will use the funding to create a children’s adventure play trail for all the community to use. This will promote fitness, provide challenges and opportunities for team building for the children within the school and the wider community.
Tags: Big Lottery Fund, children, CHT, Community, county, Crawley, crawley borough council, Crawley MP Welcomes Crawley Community Projects On Big Lottery Win, Mayor Lee Burke, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, the hawth, West Sussex
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Wednesday, July 13th, 2011
Henry Smith has welcomed an announcement from Ceres Power that they have opened a new technology centre in Crawley creating 170 new jobs in the local economy.
Henry said:
“Companies such as local, leading green economy firm Ceres Power are proving how much of an asset they are for our town, having just announced 170 new positions. Today’s announcement follows on from Siemens decision to create 600 new positions in Three Bridges.
“It was reassuring to learn today that, in the three months to May, unemployment data (released today) shows joblessness continuing to fall in Crawley (now at 4.1%). For those still out of work I appreciate it remains 100% of a problem but I’m convinced that reducing red tape and our national debt will further stimulate the economy.
“Over the past year, some 1,500 investment projects from 54 different countries have been landed by the UK, creating and safeguarding almost 100,000 positions in the private sector.”
Follow Henry daily on Facebook by visiting: www.facebook.com/henrysmithmp
Tags: Ceres Power, children, Community, county, crawley happy times, Crawley MP Welcomes News Of More Local Jobs & Falling Unemployment, Henry Smith MP, Information, MP Henry Smith, News Bulletins, online
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Wednesday, July 13th, 2011
Consultation begins on Fire and Rescue Services merger
THE Fire and Rescue Service in West Sussex starts a 12-week public consultation tomorrow (July 14) to seek the views of the public, businesses and staff on its potential merger with East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service.
The consultation is being launched with public meetings in Crawley, which is also tomorrow (Thursday 14th July), and Worthing, which is on Tuesday 19th July.
The Crawley meeting is in the The Fire Service Training Centre (the ex-library building), Northgate Avenue. The Worthing one is in Worthing Library, Richmond Road. Both start at 7pm.
Throughout the consultation Fire Officers will be attending County Local Committee meetings, open days and public events. They will also hold specially arranged forums for partners, businesses, the voluntary sector and members of public. Feedback can also be given online, by post or phone.
West Sussex County Council and the East Sussex Fire Authority (ESFA) have been examining options for closer collaboration between the two Fire Services to see if it would improve performance and protect frontline services from the financial pressures on public sector spending.
The latest business case suggests a full merger under a new combined fire authority for the whole of Sussex provides the best opportunity to make savings of £3.8 million while safeguarding services to the community.
There are no plans to close any fire stations in the merger.
The consultation will run from July 14th – October 6th. ESFA is also consulting on the proposed merger and both ESFA and the County Council will consider the feedback and a final business case before making a final decision at separate meetings in December.
County Fire Officer Max Hood hopes as many people as possible will take part in the consultation.
He said: “The pressures on public spending mean all local authorities are working to find ways of providing essential services with reduced budgets.
“A merger would see a significant change in the management and support costs of the Fire & Rescue Service in West Sussex. It could also mean we can protect fire stations and the other frontline services that people need.
“We’re still waiting for details on the future funding from the government before the business case on a possible merger can be completed, but it’s also important to listen to the views of local people before a final decision is taken.
“I hope as many as possible will attend the meetings and public events to speak to Fire Officers, read the consultation document or seek information via the websites before giving us their feedback on the way forward.”
Pete Bradbury, West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “Our priority remains to provide excellent fire and rescue services to our residents.
“In the current difficult financial climate, we believe this innovative approach of merging the fire services of East and West Sussex and Brighton and Hove could enable us to continue to deliver excellent services and improve our operational capability, while reducing back office, management and administration costs.
“The views of the public are important to us and I hope residents, businesses, organisations and stakeholders will participate in the consultation. No decision will be made until the results of the consultation have been considered.”
The business case and consultation document is available online at www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire . Copies of the consultation document are available in libraries, help points, and in reception areas of local authorities, and printed copies can be sent on request.
You can contact the consultation team via email at fireredesign@westsussex.gov.uk or write to Fire Redesign Team, WSFRS HQ, Northgate, Chichester PO19 1BD, or phone 01243 753706.
If approved by central government a merger would take effect on 1st April 2013.
Tags: charity, Community, Consultation begins on fire and rescue services merger in Sussex, Crawley, crawley happy times, Henry Smith, News Bulletins, West Sussex
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Wednesday, July 13th, 2011
Learning difficulty plans discussed by Committee
Proposals to transform West Sussex County Council services for adults with learning difficulties were discussed by Members last week.
The Adults’ Services Select Committee received a report outlining how the service will be looked at over the coming years.
In addition to the changes to the eligibility criteria already agreed, there are five other areas of proposed change being looked at:
• Decommissioning the Alinora Crescent respite service in Worthing and re-providing the service elsewhere.
• Commission supported living services in a more cost effective and efficient way.
• Possible outsourcing of the County Council’s Supported Living Service.
• Review and remodelling of learning difficulty community health and social care teams.
• Review and remodelling of learning difficulty day services.
Chairman Irene Richards said: “The Committee emphasised that we want to be involved in any proposals that come forward at an early stage, so they can be fully scrutinised and to allow us to input into the decision making process.
“Officers assured us that those who use the service will be fully consulted at all stages on the proposals as they are developed.”
The learning difficulties service is funded by the County Council and NHS West Sussex. Any savings identified for the County Council would also apply to NHS West Sussex.
Tags: Allan Hambly, Community, crawley happy times, Learning difficulty plans discussed by Committee, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex, West Sussex County Council services
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Tuesday, July 12th, 2011
Got an old car you’re thinking of scrapping? Want to help support your local firefighters?
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is once again appealing for people to donate scrap cars and help firefighters hone their road traffic collision rescue skills.
A number of Fire Stations across the county are in need of extra cars for crews to train on and practice the latest preparation, stabilisation and cutting techniques they need when they are rescuing casualties from life-threatening car crashes.
Richard Davy, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Deputy District Commander for Crawley & Mid Sussex, explains why the supply of scrap cars is so important:
“Attending road traffic collisions and being able to quickly and safely rescue people trapped in their cars is a core part of a firefighter’s role and undoubtedly saves many lives each year. Getting practical ‘hands on’ training is obviously a vital part of maintaining and developing those rescue skills.
“It could be a matter of life or death when we arrive at an incident, with often only a narrow window of opportunity to either make space for medical stabilisation or rapid casualty removal to facilitate some of the more complicated medical procedures, so having cars to practice on is crucial.
“For many years local scrap merchant Mark Maynard from Autocovery has been donating scrap cars to us for Crawley, Horsham, Horley and East Grinstead Fire Stations. However, over the last few months his stocks have run really low and obviously this has a serious knock-on effect on the number of vehicles available to us. That’s why we are urging anyone thinking of scrapping their car to consider donating it to us.”
For anyone wishing to donate their car, Autocovery will pick it up free of charge, process the vehicle log book and deliver he car to the Fire Station. In the first instance, contact Mark on 07860 667785 or 01293 415909.
Tags: children, Community, county, crawley happy times, FIRE SERVICE APPEAL FOR SCRAP CARS, News Bulletins, West Sussex
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Tuesday, July 12th, 2011
Crawley Circus Festival & Kettle of Fish at The Hawth
Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th August
Join in the fun as the circus comes to town. The Hawth offers the perfect weekend for juggling and circus enthusiasts from Saturday 6th August to Sunday 7th August. The English garden party themed festival also includes the incredible Kettle of Fish Circus Cabaret. The show brings its usual blend of talented contemporary circus performers to Crawley for one night only on Saturday 6th August at 7.30pm.
There will be lots to get involved with over the weekend including workshops and games plus festival-goers can demonstrate their skills at the renegade show.
Kettle of Fish
For those who prefer to sit back and watch, Kettle of Fish brings international acts to the stage for a thrilling night of circus skills including one of Europe’s finest and most innovative jugglers, Rod Laver with his oral ping pong. Rod recently smashed the world record by juggling 8 ping pong balls with his mouth and has appeared several times on the BBC’s Let Me Entertain You. Also taking to the stage is Carlos Romero with his virtuoso manipulation and another appearance for Isis and Nathan, after their success last year.
reference book celebrating the greatest jugglers of all time ‘Virtuosos of Juggling’.
Those attending the festival is heartily encouraged to wear fancy dress, think Rule Britannia, vicars, cricketers, tea ladies, morris men, Chaphoppers and ukuleles….and bring lots of cake!
You can book tickets for Kettle of Fish on its own or purchase a weekend ticket for the Circus Festival which includes entry to Kettle of Fish.
Weekend tickets: £25 (Under 12s: £18) (The weekend ticket includes Kettle Of Fish Circus Cabaret and camping (otherwise £5 per tent).
Day Tickets: £9 (Under 12s: £6.50)
Under 6s are free if accompanying weekend ticket holders, but must be booked in advance.
Book before August 1st and save up to £5!
Call The Hawth Box Office 01293 553636 to book your tickets now or visit www.hawth.co.uk.
Tags: Allan Hambly, CHT, Community, Councillor Lenny Walker, Henry Smith, News Bulletins, ROLL UP ROLL UP - Crawley Circus Festival & Kettle of Fish at The Hawth, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex County Council
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Tuesday, July 12th, 2011
Carbon cutting success for K2 Crawley management
Carbon cutting at K2 Crawley has helped Freedom Leisure obtain the Carbon Trust standard.
The not-for-profit organisation who manage Crawley Borough Council’s leisure centre was awarded the standard for the centres they run across the country.
An energy management plan drawn up by CBC and Freedom Leisure in 2009 helped K2 Crawley cut its carbon by eight per cent over the last two years.
Some measures introduced included fitting infrared sensors in stores and offices to make sure lights go out when rooms aren’t in use; removing unnecessary light fittings; installing electrical sub-meters which highlighted high energy use areas and a lot of raising staff awareness.
In 2009/10 energy use at k2 Crawley dropped by 8.1 per cent and saved £16,000 a year.
And 40 per cent of all electricity used and 27 per cent of heat used came from renewable energy.
Councillor Ken Trussell, Cabinet member for Environment, said: “It’s fantastic news for Freedom Leisure and Crawley Council. We’ve worked hard with them over the last few years to build a carbon cutting plan and implement the changes and it’s fantastic to see it working so well.
“Freedom are a great partner for the council and this standard shows not only their commitment to the environment but also how well Freedom and the council work together.”
Freedom Leisure is proud to join a respected group of 621 organisations that have achieved the Carbon Trust Standard since it was launched in June 2008.
Based on a rigorous independent assessment, the Carbon Trust Standard certifies that organisations have measured, managed and reduced their carbon emissions across their operations and are committed to reducing further year-on-year.
Jeff Hart MD of Freedom Leisure said: “Freedom Leisure is working very hard internally and with all its partners to reduce its carbon footprint and ensure we offer fantastic leisure facilities that operate at their optimum when it comes to utility consumption. The award of the Carbon Trust Standard shows all the hard work is coming to fruition.
Tags: Cabinet member for Environment, Carbon cutting success for K2 Crawley management, Carbon Trust Standard, CBC and Freedom Leisure in 2009 helped K2 Crawley, children, Community, Councillor Ken Trussell, Crawley, crawley happy times, Freedom Leisure, Jeff Hart MD of Freedom Leisure, Mayor Lee Burke, Shelley Fagence-Traynor
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Friday, July 8th, 2011
Go-ahead for Worth Road speed cushions and crossing
PROPOSALS to install eight sets of speed cushions and a signal-controlled Puffin crossing in Worth Road, Pound Hill, have been given the go-ahead by the East Crawley County Local Committee.
The cushions will allow wider wheel-base vehicles, such as fire engines, ambulances and buses, to travel over them without disturbing passengers or increasing response times.
The Puffin crossing will be at the junction of Crawley Lane. It will improve accessibility for pedestrians, especially school children and patients going to the doctors’ surgery located at the western end of Worth Road.
The proposals were drawn up by County Hall highways experts because of Worth Road’s poor personal injury record. In the three years up to March 2009, there were nine personal injury road traffic accidents – one fatal, two serious and six slight.
The scheme is scheduled to be implemented between February and May of next year.
Richard Burrett, Committee Chairman, said: “These measures are intended to improve road safety and especially to benefit vulnerable road users including pedestrians wishing to cross Worth Road.
“With speed cushions located throughout the length of Worth Road, average vehicle speeds are more likely to be contained within the 30mph limit.
“The proposals were drawn up by the County Council’s transport officers following considerable consultation with residents and interested parties.”
Tags: children, Community, Crawley, crawley borough council, crawley happy times, Go-ahead for Worth Road speed cushions and crossing, mayor, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, West Sussex County Council
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Wednesday, July 6th, 2011
Big Top Treats in Libraries this summer
Roll up, roll up to the annual free Summer Reading Challenge held in all West Sussex Libraries, which this year has the theme ‘Circus Stars’.
The Challenge runs from Saturday 16th July to Saturday 10th September. Aimed at four to 12 year olds, children are challenged to read up to six books, and will win prizes at different stages, including a gold medal if all six are read.
Children can join characters Clemmy, Megan and Anand throughout the summer for a range of activities. The launch day on July 16 at Crawley, Worthing and Chichester Libraries will see a number or circus-themed events from juggling, hula-hoop challenges and face painting.
Louise Goldsmith, Leader of West Sussex County Council, said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is always a fun time for our Libraries and it’s a great chance for children around the county to come together and celebrate books.
“Last year, when the theme was ‘Space Hop’, more than 11,000 young people took part in the challenge, borrowing 400,000 books between them.
“We look forward to this year being as successful.”
For more information on the Summer Reading Challenge, visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/libraries or visit your local Library.
Tags: Allan Hambly, Big Top Treats in Libraries this summer, Chichester, Community, mayor, Mayor Lee Burke, News Bulletins, Times, West Sussex County Council, www.westsussex.gov.uk/libraries
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Monday, July 4th, 2011
Two online summer guides to events in Crawley for children and young people have been launched.
Go! Crawley Kids is full of exciting things to do across the town for children aged under 13. The 26-page online brochure includes fun activities around the town including parkour, football courses, skateboard, tennis, go-karting, arts and crafts, karate, golf, athletics and much, much more. A flyer advertising the website – www.crawley.gov.uk/gocrawley - will be delivered to all primary school children from today (Monday July 4).
For those aged 13 and over, the Go! Crawley Facebook page is their dedicated online space to plan their summer. The page – www.facebook.com/gocrawley – features up-to-the-minute news and information on what’s happening, when and where. Postcards and posters advertising the Facebook page will be in secondary schools today.
Discounts, free tickets and special offers will all be promoted on the Facebook page.
Chase Fitness, Community Arts Summer Schools, Community Tennis Courses, Crawley Play Service, Crawley Museum, Dynamic Adventures, Extreme Sports, Goffs Park Pitch ‘n’ Putt, The Hawth, Healthy Balanced Generation, K2 Crawley, SKF Karate, Tilgate Park and Nature Centre and Crawley Wellbeing are providing a wide range of things to do during the summer holidays.
Crawley Skate Park, Goffs Park, Tilgate Park and Nature Centre, K2 Crawley, Crawley Museum, Ifield Watermill, Chase Fitness, Crawley Rugby Club, The Hawth, the 3G Pitch at Broadfield Stadium, adventure playgrounds, Parkour Training Area and Oriel High School are among the venues for this summer of fun.
Councillor Lenny Walker, Cabinet member for Leisure and Cultural Services, said:” There are so many great events, courses and activities that are mentally stimulating and physically challenging, there are lots of opportunities to avoid boredom this summer holiday.”
If you’re under 13, pick up your Go! Crawley Kids leaflet from school, the Town Hall, K2 Crawley or The Hawth, or visit www.crawley.gov.uk/gocrawley
If you’re over 13 visit www.facebook.com/gocrawley
Mayor of Crawley, Councillor Carol Eade and Councillor Bob Lanzer, Leader of Crawley Borough Council, launching Go!Crawley with some of the children and young people used in the publicity
Tags: Community, crawley borough council, crawley happy times, Go! Crawley launched, News Bulletins, Shelley Fagence-Traynor
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Monday, July 4th, 2011
ACTION-PACKED OPEN DAY AT LITTLEHAMPTON FIRE STATION
It’s going to be an action-packed day in Littlehampton on Saturday 9th July when the Fire Station opens its doors for its annual Open Day.
Firefighters are inviting local residents to spend the day with them at the station on Maltravers Road where they will be putting on a whole host of activities and displays throughout the day.
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service runs open days across a number of its county stations, offering a unique opportunity for people to get a rare peek behind the scenes of their local Fire Station, find out more about the role of the modern firefighter and pick up some really valuable fire and road safety tips.
With firefighting and rescue displays, a variety of stalls, bouncy castle, an array of children’s entertainment, raffle and refreshments, there will be plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Colleagues from the Police and Ambulance Service will join fire crews on the day and there will be a host of vehicles and specialist equipment on display.
Watch Manager at Littlehampton Fire Station, Niall Cooper, said:
“Our Open Day is a great opportunity for the community to come and meet us and find out a bit more about what we do and how we are working with our local partners to make Littlehampton safer. We have also planned loads of fun activities with something for everyone, so bring the whole family and make a real day of it.”
The day runs from 10am until 3pm and Maltravers Rd will be closed for the duration. Entrance is free and any proceeds from the day will be donated to the Firefighters Charity.
Information on other upcoming Open Days can be found at www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire or on our Facebook page.
Tags: ACTION-PACKED OPEN DAY AT LITTLEHAMPTON FIRE STATION, CHT, Community, crawley borough council, crawley happy times, Maltravers Road, Shelley Fagence-Traynor, www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire
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Friday, July 1st, 2011
FIRE AUTHORITIES TO CONSULT ON PROPOSED MERGER
East Sussex Fire Authority and West Sussex County Council have today (Friday July 1st) announced they are to hold a public consultation on the proposed merger of East and West Sussex Fire & Rescue Services.
The decision to consult comes after a business case concluded a merger was the best option to protect community fire and rescue services from the national pressures on public spending, subject to details of future funding arrangements for local authorities which are being reviewed by the coalition government.
A twelve-week public consultation is now planned to take place from 14th July to 6th October. Feedback from the consultation will be considered before a final decision is made.
In December 2010, the Fire Authority and County Council had jointly announced they would explore options for closer collaboration, up to and including a full merger of the two Fire & Rescue Services.
The aim was to explore which options would preserve services to local communities at the same time as seeking efficiency savings to meet financial pressures from grant reductions. Both Services also wanted to see how increased collaboration or a full merger would improve operational resilience and overall capacity to the collective benefit of local residents, businesses and visitors alike across the whole of Sussex and the City of Brighton & Hove.
Today’s announcement on the consultation follows a decision by Councillor Pete Bradbury, West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Protection, after the proposed merger was discussed at the Council’s Community Services Select Committee. The proposed merger had already been considered in confidential session by East Sussex Fire Authority at its meeting on June 2nd.
Should the authorities decide not to pursue a full merger, work would still continue on closer collaboration between the two Services to progress the more limited opportunities for financial savings and organisational efficiencies. A final business case, including all of the outcomes from the public consultation as well as final information on the financial implications, will be presented to East Sussex Fire Authority and West Sussex County Council at their respective meetings in December.
If agreed, a merger would still be subject to Government approval and would not be able to come into effect before 1st April 2013.
Councillor Pete Bradbury, West Sussex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: “Our priority remains to provide excellent fire and rescue services to our residents. In the current difficult financial climate, we believe this innovative approach of merging the fire services of East and West Sussex and Brighton & Hove could enable us to continue to deliver excellent services and improve our operational capability, whilst reducing back office, management and administration costs.
“The views of the public are important to us and I hope residents, businesses, organisations and stakeholders will participate in the consultation. No decision will be made until the results of the consultation have been considered.”
Councillor John Livings, East Sussex Fire Authority Chairman, said: “Over the years, we have striven to deliver high quality services to all our local communities, at a price council tax payers can afford to pay. These are the key priorities identified as being the most important from our annual consultation exercises. As such, we have kept council tax increases low and made efficiency savings to avoid cutting our services to local communities.”
He continued: “However, most public services are facing more difficult budget decisions and we are no different, yet we remain committed to making the right decisions and prioritising our resources effectively.
“We believe a larger Fire Authority covering East and West Sussex and our City would be better in terms of building a more resilient organisation to deliver much needed services, as well as giving more scope to reduce management and overhead costs. A consultation process will provide local council taxpayers with the opportunity to give us their feedback before any decisions are taken on the way forward.”
Tags: children, Community, Crawley, crawley borough council, crawley happy times, FIRE AUTHORITIES TO CONSULT ON PROPOSED MERGER, News Bulletins, West Sussex
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Thursday, June 30th, 2011
Remember the person during dementia awareness week
‘Remember the Person’ is the theme of this year’s Dementia Awareness Week which runs from July 3-9.
In West Sussex one in five people in the county will have a form of dementia during their lifetime. More than 13,000 people are currently living with dementia in West Sussex.
Dementia is not a specific disease and can be caused by a number of different conditions including Alzheimer’s disease. People with dementia can have a number of difficulties including problems with their short term memory.
The idea of ‘Remember the Person’ is to try to encourage people to be a friend to someone with dementia. It is also trying to take the fear out of dementia.
Two thirds of people with dementia live at home. Often they are cared for by family members who also need help and support.
There is a lot that can be done by friends and neighbours. Just staying in touch and treating a person with respect and dignity can help. It is also important to be a good listener and communicator.
In West Sussex the pioneering HOPE group (a group of people living with dementia) has helped both professionals and the public gain a greater understanding of the needs of people with dementia and their carers. The group is funded by West Sussex County Council to help develop the learning and training of social care staff and students in the county.
David Moore, Training and Development Officer for Adults’ Services at West Sussex County Council, helps run the group.
He said: “HOPE gives people living with dementia the chance to give their views on the support they need to live well with dementia. The work we have undertaken so far has been invaluable in showing that you can live positively with dementia if the right support and understanding is available”.
Peter Catchpole, County Council Cabinet Member for Adults’ Services, said: “By working closely with people and their families who have direct experience of the disease we are developing a better understanding of their needs.”
Earlier this year two West Sussex men with differing forms of dementia shared their thoughts and feelings in a video produced by the County Council. They agreed to be interviewed, to shatter the myth that those with the disease are incapable of thinking for themselves.
To see the film, visit www.westsussex.gov.uk/video and click the People tab.
For more information on dementia, see the Social Care pages at www.westsussex.gov.uk. Information on local services can be found at www.icis-info4life.org.uk.
Tags: Community, crawley borough council, Information, Remember the person during dementia awareness week, West Sussex
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