You’re more at risk than you think

Wychavon District Council have joined up with the Health and Safety Executive on a nationwide Asbestos Awareness campaign entitled ”You are more at risk than you think!’

Did you know:

• More people die from asbestos related disease per year than are killed on the roads.
• Every week 20 tradesmen die from asbestos related disease.
• Every week 6 electricians die from asbestos related disease.
• Every week 3 plumbers die from asbestos related disease.
• It can be present in any building built or refurbished before the year 2000.

Eamon Rodgers, Environmental Health Officer, said “This is still a big issue as asbestos remains in many buildings. We want to raise people’s awareness again and information is available if people have concerns.”

The campaign is taking place throughout February and March 2008 and is aimed at those workers who may come into contact with asbestos on a day to day basis.

Asbestos was used extensively as a building material in Great Britain from the 1950’s through to the mid-1980’s. Any type of building built before 2000 (houses, factories, offices, schools, hospitals etc.) could contain asbestos. Asbestos materials in good condition are safe unless the asbestos fibres become airborne, which happens when the materials are damaged. Airborne asbestos fibres can be deadly if they are inhaled over a long period of time.

Throughout Wychavon promotional packs will be available at building suppliers, DIY outlets and plumbing suppliers to raise awareness of potential asbestos exposure. Further information is available from the Environmental Services Section at Wychavon District Council. On 01386 565015 or through environmentalhealth@wychavon.gov.uk

Local event supports food workers

Wychavon are working with Health and Safety Executive in Worcester on an original and informative event for local food and catering businesses.

The event takes place 9 – 1pm – 4th March at Evesham Town Hall and is open to all food and catering businesses.

The event will provide information on how food businesses can prevent dermatitis, avoid slips and trips, which are a major cause of accidents and ill-health, and will also touch on the best ways of informing migrant worker employees about health and safety issues.

Debbie Herbert, Commercial Services Manager said “We’re really pleased to be offering this event in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive and it will provide a really good opportunity for local businesses to get all this information in one place.”

Any businesses who wants to attend, please contact Karen Thompson on 01386 565340 and reserve your space.

New Leisure Centre a step closer

Wychavon District Council has signed the contract for a new £10.75 million leisure centre for Evesham.

The Council will be working with contractors Galliford Try to construct the new centre on Abbey Road, Evesham, which will replace the existing 30 year old centre in Davies Road.  The current centre will remain open until the new one is complete.

The new facility will include two swimming pools, a large sports hall, health suite with spa pools, sauna and steam room, a climbing wall and a café area. 

Leader of Wychavon District Council, Cllr Paul Middlebrough, said: “This marks an important stage in the development of a new leisure centre for Evesham.  We are delighted to be working with Galliford Try on this exciting project.”

Work is due to start on site in March 2008 and the new leisure centre is due to open in summer 2009.

Chips in bins turned down

Wychavon’s Executive Board has confirmed that microchips will not be installed when the district’s new waste and recycling services are introduced later in the year.

The decision was taken after considering the cost of installing microchips with public opinion and the likelihood of the Government requiring the Council to charge by weight.

Councillor Anna Mackison, Board member for Environment said “From the start this has been a tricky one for Wychavon. The microchips would have some advantages of helping to identify missed collections and link bins with individual properties plus support the monitoring of recycling participation levels.”

“However, we felt that the fitting of microchips did not provide value for money and would be unpopular with some of our residents, and so we will not be putting them in.”

Big promises – low cost

Responding to local needs and resident budget consultation Wychavon are making big commitments to 5 new priorities this year while limiting council tax increases to 2.5% for the 8th year running. There are 5 themes in the new council strategy with promises being made on each.

Big promises were announced at Wychavon’s Executive Board last night as part of the councils plans for the coming year and are around a first time buyers scheme on affordable housing. Delivery 4 flooding alleviation schemes in Harvington and North Littleton, Bishampton, Tobberton and Queenmead in Bredon. An extra £30k for the next 3 years in sport coaching for young people

Priority 1 Safer – new investments in community safety reassurance services and mobile CCTV have been agreed. Crime is down 11% on last year and Wychavon will continue to work with the Police to continue to make reductions.

Priority 2 Greener – street cleaning benefits from extra money, with daily patrols in town centres and more frequent cleaning in rural areas too. Introducing the new wheelie bin service, with trips for residents to the Hill and Moor Landfull site and community roadshows for residents to learn what happens to their waste and recycling.

Priority 3 Healthier – promises to increase users to the already popular leisure centres in the towns are included for the coming year – especially to attract people in who could benefit from exercise. There will also be close working with doctors to prescribe exercise too.

Priority 4 Stronger – as well as delivery of more affordable homes and the new first time buyers scheme to help address the high price of housing, the coming year will see new business unit development at Vale Park, Evesham. The Board are looking at ways to keep essential post offices in key locations too.

Priority 5 Successful – Wychavon will to continue to provide excellent services at a low cost with a promise to keep council tax increase to just 2.5% for 8th year running and customer care improvements too.

Paul Middlebrough, Leader of Wychavon said “Every year we set ambitious but affordable promises to meet the needs of residents. This year is no exception and it’s set to be another great year for people living in Wychavon.”

Promises and the budget were agreed at Executive Board on Tuesday, 5th February going to Full Council for approval on Tuesday, 26th February.

Pershore remains popular

Pershore remains popular with shoppers and visitors with the help of a low cost car parking initiative.

That’s the conclusion from recent statistics which show that the level of car parking in the town’s central car park during January remained at a similar level compared with the previous year despite the start to the Pershore High Street Improvement works.

Nearly 5,000 motorists have already taken advantage of a car parking concession which provides up to 3 hours parking on Tuesdays, Wednesday and Thursdays for only 10 pence at the central High Street car park.

Cllr Tom McDonald, Wychavon’s spokesperson for Regeneration, said: “I am delighted that the combination of a wide range of quality independent shops, Number 8, plus the competitive car parking price has proved to be a success. It has so far helped to overcome some of the short-term inconvenience created by the roadworks. I hope more people will take advantage of the offer over the coming weeks.”

The car parking concession has been funded by a partnership including Pershore market Town Partnership, Pershore Town Council and Wychavon District Council and will remain in place during High Street roadworks.

Brown bin – greener future

Residents interested in the NEW chargeable garden waste collection service being asked to tell Wychavon District Council as quickly as possible if they’re interested.

Over 2,000 spots have been taken already by early bird residents and this number will increase quickly so get in touch.

Councillor Anna Makison, Executive Board Member for the Environment and Contracted Services said “Places are going quickly and we’re really pleased with the response we’ve had so far. It is first come first served though, so get in touch quickly to reserve your compostable garden waste collection service”

Leaflets on the service have gone through doors and in newspapers giving details on what the service entails but more information is available at the council’s website.

Brown wheelie bins will take excess garden waste away for those who can’t compost or have too much for a composter to handle.

7,500 bins are available on a first come, first served basis with some geographical limitations. They cost £27.50 a year if you pay before 15th February or the normal rate £30 a year. You can even sign up for 2 or 3 years and save even more! To see if the service is offered in your area and that there are places available go to www.wychavon.gov.uk/gardenwaste or call 01386 565005 9am to 5p Monday to Friday.

Polish website

Wychavon have developed a version of their website in Polish.

The website aimed at serving the needs of migrant workers and Polish residents, new to the area, is set to launch on 28th January.

Polish residents on the last electoral roll made up 737 residents and this increases in the summer months when migrant workers come over for seasonal work.

The website that has been translated by Wychavon’s Natalia Zak, originally from Poland, hopes to provide important information to Polish residents in their own language.

Amanda de Warr, Customer Services Manager said “We want to make Polish residents and migrant workers feel as welcome as possible to the area and know that English isn’t always their first language. It’s really important that Polish residents have access to information in Polish, to help them integrate and be aware of any cultural differences. It also encourages Polish residents to learn to speak English and provides signposts to local colleges.”

Natalia Zak, Customer Service Advisor said “It’s been great working on this innovative and new project to help Polish residents get important information easily. It will also reduce the time spent dealing with enquiries at the contact centres as so much information is now readily available on the website. We will continue to develop the website and welcome any input from the Polish community.”

The site will be accessible at www.wychavon.gov.uk/polska

Action taken on puppy farm

On 11th January, Wychavon visited premises near Evesham and found an unlicensed dog breeding site.

The visit followed a complaint from a member of the public and was carried out in conjunction with the RSPCA with police support.

Debbie Herbert, Commercial Services Manager said “When we visited the premises we found a large number of breeding dogs and puppies. The investigation is continuing and a decision on prosecuting the owner for breach of licensing laws will be made shortly.”

“We take animal welfare very seriously and a vet was called in to check all of the dogs and puppies. The owner of the premises was co-operative and agreed to the re-homing of a large number of dogs.”

Pip Singleton, Wychavon’s Dog Warden commented “We managed to persuade the owner that some of the dogs would probably be better off if he gave them up for re-homing – even though the vet and RSPCA were satisfied that they were under no immediate danger.”

Ms Herbert continued: “We’ve had calls from the public about dogs that have been released for re-homing. Lost dog sites have been checked and all the dogs have been scanned for microchips and there is no reason to believe that any of them are strays or stolen dogs.”

Wychavon encourage people to consider choosing a rescue dog as a pet. National and local rescue centres have the welfare of the animals as their primary concern and offer extensive support and advice to potential new owners to ensure that dogs are offered a long term and loving home.

Anyone considering buying a puppy from a breeder or pet shop is advised to check that they are licensed by contacting Wychavon District Council’s Licensing team on 01386 565016.

Tough decisions facing councils

A report this week by the Local Government Association (LGA) highlights that tough decisions need to be made by councils in light of Government grants, with the threat of cuts to services and big council tax increases.

Wychavon have a track record, like few councils, of keeping council tax low and are looking to keep their council tax increase to 2.5% or less for a record the 9th year running. This small increase also comes with a promise not to cut services.

However, Wychavon are very worried about other authorities in Worcestershire and the likely impact that their financial struggles may have on partnership working and services.

Paul Middlebrough, Leader of the Council said “With the credit crunch and likely impact this will have on the economy, everything is going to be tighter for our residents and we want to do our bit to ease the financial burden on them.”

“We’re very careful with our finances and want residents to know that we intend to continue to live up to good services, good value. We will always look to be more efficient, but this doesn’t mean a reduction to services or a big council tax increase.”

Valentines flood event

An event on 14th February – 2.30 – 7pm at Evesham Leisure Centre will provide comprehensive self-help, and advice to residents on how to protect themselves from future floods.

The event will have displays and products on sale from manufacturer’s specialising in flood protection and will offer practical self-help advice.

Steve Jorden, Head of Environmental Services said “It is so important we do all we can to ensure that residents are better prepared as a result of the catastrophic events of the summer and we’re doing everything within our power reduce the impact of future floods.”

“We hope residents can come down to the event at Evesham Leisure Centre, which is just the start of a programme of events designed to help residents, businesses and organisations who want more information on protecting themselves from floods.”

This event will be run by Wychavon District Council and the Flood Forum.

Landowners must clear ditches

Landowners with ditches and brooks running through their land are being called upon to help with flood alleviation once winter floodwaters have receded.

Wychavon have discovered that one of the biggest contributory factors to flooding is land owners with ditches and brooks that are not being kept clear of derbies and growth which restricts their flow.

Steve Jorden, Head of Environmental Services said “We have noticed that over the years people have filled in ditches or made special features of them which has meant that they are no longer effective during heavy rain. In addition, many ditches are not kept clear which could also cause problems.

“We’re encouraging all landowners to check their ditches and brooks and keep them clear. If you need help or advice get in touch with us.”

“We don’t want to take action against landowners, but can serve notices on those who refuse to take their responsibility seriously and will do this because reducing flooding is very important to us.”

For further information or to report any known problems call 01386 565015.

Tree carving

A Wychavon tree carving project run with Chawson, St. Peter’s and Dodderhill school children will be officially unveiled on Monday 4th February – 1.30 p.m.

The carving is being carried out on the pine tree in front of the Lido café, Droitwich Spa by Tom Harvey who carved the beech tree in Abbey Park, Pershore in Spring 2007 and has proved an excellent community project.

Tom Harvey and Jayne O’Connor from Wychavon, worked with children from the three schools to take their inspiration for the tree by modelling clay. Tom chose ideas from the models and started the carving today (21st Jan) and will take approx 2 weeks to complete depending of weather.

Jayne O’Connor, Parks Monitoring Assistant said “We’ve worked with Tom in the past and his artwork makes a really great focal point for the park. People are really intrigued by the novel concept and we hope it will be a real attraction bringing more people to the park and enjoying this piece of public art.”

Jenny Davis, Arts Development Officer said “Art is a really important part of our culture and public art is especially important because it is accessible and free for everyone to enjoy and it raises the profile of the arts in a very visible way. What is really nice about this particular piece is that local school children have had the opportunity to have an input, which not only gets them excited about doing visual art, but makes them feel connected to the park and their community.“

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

Children in Wychavon have just one week left to get their paintbrushes and pencils out and show us how to reduce our waste.

All children and young people up to the age of 18, who are in full-time education and live in the district, are welcome to take part in Wychavon’s Schools Poster Competition.  There are vouchers and goodies for all of the winners, which have been generously provided by local businesses and organisations. 

In addition, the school of each first prize winner will receive £200, to be used in an environmental project.

This year’s competition is focusing on “Waste Prevention” – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. 
Wychavon District Council wants to encourage young people to care for the environment and waste prevention provides a practical way to make a positive difference. 

Denise Ditchburn, Promotions & Monitoring Assistant, said: “We want children and young people to think about the impact we all have on the environment and to consider some practical ways we can make a difference.  We are keen to find out how they would encourage others to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.”

Schools Competition Brief:

• Design a poster to encourage people to think about ‘Waste Prevention’ – Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.
• A4 size only.
• Two-dimensional designs only (using pencils, inks, paints, crayons, markers, pastels, torn paper or fabric).
• The design can be full colour or black and white.
• Only one entry per child.
• Very important – please ensure that the artist’s name, age and school are written clearly on the back of the poster entry.
• The posters can be done in school or as a home activity.
• All entries need to be received by 5.00pm on Monday 21st January 2008.
• All entries to: Denise Ditchburn, Client Services, Wychavon District Council, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore, Worcestershire, WR10 1PT.

 For further information, please call Denise Ditchburn on 01386 565197.

Flooding again

Wychavon staff were on standby again on Friday night as bad weather hit the district again.

Staff were ready to open rest centres at the most at risk areas and sandbags were at the ready.

Evesham’s Leisure Centre did open briefly as a rest centre late on Friday but was stood down when it became apparent it wasn’t needed.

Jack Hegarty, Managing Director said “As soon as we had the warnings from the Environment Agency we started to put our Emergency Plan into action. Rest centres gladly didn’t need to take anyone in as they did in June, but we’re still on high alert should the weather deteriorate.”

Flooding advice is available on Wychavon’s website www.wychavon.gov.uk

Sandbags

In the current emergency full sandbags are available for collection at the following locations:

• Outside Evesham Community Contact Centre, Evesham
• Outside Furlong Depot, Droitwich
• Outside Civic Centre, Pershore

Please only take what you need up to a maximum of six per household.

Smart Cut awarded

Smart Cut a Wychavon contractor, who look after verges and open spaces for the council have had their efforts rewarded with the company being certified with an internationally recognised Environmental Standard (ISO 14001).

Lynn Stevens, Parks Officer said “We are really pleased that our grounds maintenance contractor takes environmental issues seriously and we would like to congratulate them on the certification and their continued commitment to high quality service as well as the environment.”

Smart Cut is based locally at Bishampton. For further information contact 01386 462706.

Businesses have their say

Local businesses are invited to attend Wychavon’s annual ratepayers consultation meeting on January 18th in the Committee Rooms at the Civic Centre in Pershore.The event starts at 7.30am with breakfast followed by an opportunity for local businesses and business support organisations to hear about the Council’s proposed budget for 2008/09, with updates on council tax business rates, and business support available from Wychavon.

Jane Dobson, Economic Development Officer said “We run this event every year and it is always well attended but if people haven’t been before we encourage you to come down and join us for breakfast and see what it’s all about.”

For more details and to reserve a place please contact Jane Dobson on 01386 565278, email jane.dobson@wychavon.gov.uk.

Open day at Riverside

The Pershore Riverside Youth Centre is holding an open day on Saturday 12th January to celebrate it’s re-opening after the floods.

Everyone is welcome from 10am to 4pm to find out more about what’s on offer at the Riverside, with tours of the centre and car washing.

It will be a great opportunity to see what activities are on offer for young people such as Kayaking, canoeing and bell boating; music, dance, arts and drama programmes; pool, tabletennis and football. Even IT facilities and game consoles.

John Gregson, Centre Development Manager said “New members are always welcome at the Riverside and the open day is an opportunity for people to come down and see what’s on offer.”

During the floods water reached desk height in the building and some of the outside facilities including the pontoon were damaged. But the flood provided the opportunity for a complete refurbishment and the purchase of new equipment, including the latest IT facilities.

The Centre is now fully operational and has started a new youth club for young people aged between 9 and 13 meeting fortnightly on Monday evenings 6.30-8.00pm, at a cost of £1 per session.

For further information contact John Gregson, the Centre Development Manager on 02386 554713 or email john.gregson@pershoreyouth.org.uk

Wychavon has Grand Designs

Winners of Wychavon Building Design Awards 2007 were presented with plaques and certificates at an Awards Ceremony on Thursday evening, Dec 13th.

The awards recognise achievements in building design across three categories, Heritage (conservation projects) Homes and Community and reward high standards of design, sustainable construction and craftsmanship of projects within the Wychavon area and completed over the past two years.

Distinction in Building Awards were presented to:

• Judy Gardner of Eckington, for the restoration of Lower End House and the creation of the Eckington Cookery School.
• David and Emma Pearson for the design of Applewood, a contemporary new home at Kemerton in the Cotwolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• Throckmorton Village Trust for the development of the Throckmorton Parish Hall.

The Building Design Awards were presented by the Chairman of the Council, Councillor Don Lawley, who commented, “This is the sixth year we have made these Awards and this year we received the highest number of nominations ever. A total of 14 projects were shortlisted and the judges had a tough time choosing the winners. The benchmark for building design has certainly risen, and these projects must rank amongst the very best in the area and set the standards for others to follow.”

For more information and contact details of individual award winners contact Jim Burgin, Heritage Manager at 01386 565366