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News
March 2020 The community magazine of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktononteesnews
Stockton- on-Tees
Stockton-on-Tees News is published by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and distributed to households across the Borough free of charge. If you have not received a copy please call 01642 524581 or email [email protected]
Alternatively, if you need to contact Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council please call 01642 393939.
Stockton-on-Tees News aims to provide information about the Council, its partner organisations, local community groups and businesses. Every effort is made to ensure all information is accurate and up-to-date at the time of publication. Your views and comments are welcome.
Stockton-on-Tees News is produced by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Communications Team and designed by Twentyseven Design. Pictures courtesy of Stuart Boulton, Dave Charnley, Andrew Heptinstall, Dawn McNamara, Gary Walsh and others. This edition’s front cover image is by Michael Rochford (@sykewardimageworks).
There is an audio version of Stockton-on-Tees News. Call 01642 524581 or email [email protected] to order a copy.
Contents
Welcome to Stockton-on-Tees News.In this March edition, we have lots of exciting news to share with you, particularly in relation to the work we are doing to help the Borough’s six towns continue to thrive. On pages 28 and 29 you can read about the exciting future for Stockton town centre which is based on the feedback we received when we asked you how you would like to see the town centre supported and developed.
And it’s not just Stockton town centre that we have been asking for your views about. Over the last few months we have also been talking to you about the Borough’s five other town centres. We are really pleased that so many of you wanted to get involved. We’re analysing all of the responses and will feed back to you soon. Meanwhile, Yarm has been celebrating after being crowned winner of the ‘Rising Star’ category in this year’s Great British High Street of the Year Awards. You can read about that on page 18.
Ingleby Barwick’s new leisure facility, IB Leisure, is set to be ready by the summer and gym membership applications open next month. Turn to page 19 to find out more.
Meanwhile work’s continuing at pace at the Globe which remains on track to open as the largest live music and entertainment venue between Newcastle and Leeds later this year. ATG are in talks with a number of promoters as they begin pulling together the venue’s opening schedule. You can learn about that on pages 16 and 17.
It was a great start to the year for Whitehouse Care Home in Hartburn. It’s been rated ‘Outstanding’ by the Care Quality Commission. The staff spend a lot of time organising various activities for the residents to enjoy which you can learn about on page 10.
Last month the Council set the budget for 2020/21, you can read about our financial plan and the areas that the Council will be focussing on this year on page 37.
And finally, don’t forget to check out the handy pull-out spring/summer events guide in the centre of this edition. As always, our programme is packed with amazing events and we look forward to seeing you there!
Julie DanksManaging Director Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
We’re outstanding! | 10 The Year of The Globe | 16
Recognition for apprenticeships | 38
An exciting future for Stockton town centre | 28
News Round Up 4
Our People 6
Our Places 16
Our Economy 28
Our Council 34
Ward Surgeries 41
What’s On 44
Working parents of children aged 3 and 4 years old could be entitled to up to 30 hours free childcare a week, if they meet eligibility criteria.Visit www.stockton.gov.uk/30hours
or call the Families Information
Service on 01642 527225 for
more information.
FREE ChildcareHours per week
30
Find out more www.stockton.gov.uk/30hours
ObituaryTributes have been paid to former councillor and Council Leader Bob Gibson OBE who sadly died in January.
Bob, 82, served for 34 years in local government in Stockton-on-Tees, including 17 as Council Leader.
He was first elected to Cleveland County Council in 1981 and then onto Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council in 1982 where he remained as a councillor for the Newtown ward until 2015.
During this time he chaired the Association of North East Councils and the North East Assembly and was awarded an OBE for his services to politics in 2006.
In 2015 the Council conferred its highest ceremonial honour, the Freedom of the Borough, on Bob, who was also presented with Honorary Alderman status.
Last year Barratt Homes North East named a street in its new Jubilee Gardens development on Norton Road after the long-serving former council leader.
Exciting plans for Stockton town centre have been unveiled.
A riverside park, a land bridge and a new library, customer service centre and Council office are among the plans to tackle empty shops and open up the town to the river.
Read more about it on pages 28 and 29.
An exciting future for Stockton town centreNewsFrom the Borough
Northfield School and Sports College has been rated ‘good’ by OfstedAmong the key strengths picked out in the report is the school’s “renewed sense of purpose” inspired by new headteacher, Richard Henderson, supported by “unified and motivated” governors and staff.The report goes on to say parents and carers are “very supportive of the school, especially when describing the care and support for pupils’ personal development.”
Other key strengths, the report says, include the “new approach to behaviour that celebrates the positives,” which is seeing both a reduction in disruption and an improvement in attendance.
A19 widening work has begunHighways England has begun improving the A19 route between Norton and Wynyard.By spring 2022 it is expected, the dual carriageway will be increased to three lanes. There will be times when the road has to be closed overnight and at weekends, so that the work can be carried out.
The extra space created by the additional lane will ease congestion and delays, while the noise from the concrete road up to the A689 Wynyard junction will also be reduced thanks to the low noise resurfacing.
To find out more visit www.highwaysengland.co.uk/projects/a19-norton-to-wynyard
Last month Highways England also began replacing the A19 viaduct bridge joints. In order to do this safely the road needs to be closed southbound from Friday 27-Monday 30 March and northbound from Friday 17-Monday 20 April.
An artist’s impression ©Google
New long stay car park for YarmA piece of land a stone’s throw from Yarm High Street is set to become a new long-stay car park.Last month the Council’s Cabinet approved a deal that, subject to planning permission, will see the Council lease a site off West Street, currently occupied by the Arncliffe Buildings and create 60 car parking spaces there.
Director of Economic Growth and Development at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, Richard McGuckin, said: “This site is ideally placed to relieve the pressure on parking in Yarm. We will now finalise the arrangements for the lease and seek planning permission so we can get the car park up and running as soon as possible. We know there’s more to be done to solve the issue of parking in the town but we’re very hopeful that this new site will have a hugely positive impact.”
The breakthrough comes just weeks after Yarm Business Forum’s successful bid for a Great British High Street of the Year Award. You can read more about that on page 18.
CORONAVIRUS: PUBLIC INFORMATION The Government and NHS are well prepared to deal with this virus.
You can help too.
The best way to protect yourself and others is:
Wash your hands with soap and water, or use a sanitiser gel, regularly throughout the day.
Catch your cough or sneeze in a tissue, bin it, and wash your hands.
If you have recently arrived back from specified areas follow the returning traveller advice. Check the list of areas and find out more at nhs.uk/coronavirus
CORONAVIRUS: PUBLIC INFORMATION The Government and NHS are well prepared to deal with this virus.
You can help too.
The best way to protect yourself and others is:
Wash your hands with soap and water, or use a sanitiser gel, regularly throughout the day.
Catch your cough or sneeze in a tissue, bin it, and wash your hands.
If you have recently arrived back from specified areas follow the returning traveller advice. Check the list of areas and find out more at nhs.uk/coronavirus
CORONAVIRUS: PUBLIC INFORMATION The Government and NHS are well prepared to deal with this virus.
You can help too.
The best way to protect yourself and others is:
Wash your hands with soap and water, or use a sanitiser gel, regularly throughout the day.
Catch your cough or sneeze in a tissue, bin it, and wash your hands.
If you have recently arrived back from specified areas follow the returning traveller advice. Check the list of areas and find out more at nhs.uk/coronavirus
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Champions in road safetyMore than 1,300 Year 6 pupils from 36 primary schools competed in the 23rd annual Road Safety Quiz. The winners [pictured] were St John The Evangelist Primary School in Billingham. They beat tough competition from Mill Lane Primary School and Fairfield Primary School who also made it through to the final after succeeding in the initial rounds last November. To get to the final this year was a fantastic achievement as only five points separated all 36 schools in the initial rounds.
The event, organised by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Road Safety Team, teaches pupils road safety advice that could potentially save a life.
Better when we’re togetherPrimary school children from across Stockton-on-Tees have been making some new friends.
They have been enjoying singing, dancing and playing with some of the Borough’s older residents.
It is part of the exciting Funky4Life project, part of the Funky Feet programme, which aims to reduce social isolation and increase older adults’ sense of belonging, self-esteem, and wellbeing, whilst improving social and emotional skills of children.
Pictured are residents from Wellburn Care Home in Fairfield with children from St Marks Elm Tree Primary School.
For more information visit www.funkyfeet4kids.co.uk
Investing in the Borough’s schools The £52million investment programme in schools and nursery buildings is continuing.Here is the latest update on a number of the on-going expansion and improvement projects.
• Northfield School and Sports College has received £5.5million to expand so the school can provide accommodation for up to 300 more pupils and a bespoke Year 7 block now links to the main school building.
• Our Lady & St Bede Catholic Academy has received investment of £5.4million for an expansion. The first phase is a fully refurbished block for teaching and as a result the school will be able to increase its capacity by 300 places. The contractor is now working on some internal remodelling together with a new entrance and a new build Sports Hall which is expected to be complete next month.
• A new £1million, state of the art hall, studio space and changing facilities is now complete at Conyers School.
• A new sixth form building has been completed as part of the first phase of investment at Egglescliffe School.
• All Saints Church of England Academy will benefit from a £3.2million expansion later this year.
We’ll share more updates about these projects as well as investments in the Borough’s primary schools in future editions of Stockton-on-Tees News.
Can you give the gift of friendship?Taking the time to talk to someone and having a chat can make a real difference, especially if they don’t have family and friends close by.
Friends for our older peopleStockton-on-Tees Borough Council commissions Age UK Teesside to provide a Befriending Service for adults over the age of 65. It helps people to build relationships to reduce the likelihood of them feeling lonely or isolated and to make them feel part of their community.
If you would enjoy having a friendly chat over a cuppa and have a couple of hours spare each week Age UK Teesside would love to hear from you. Contact [email protected]
Find out more about support for people affected by loneliness or isolation on page 12 or search “loneliness” at www.stocktoninformationdirectory.org
Friends for our young peopleStockton-on-Tees Borough Council is looking for volunteers to spend time with young people over 8 years old who are in local authority care. These young people would benefit from having a friendship with someone who would be a good role model and a permanent adult in their life – something that some young people sadly don’t have. Ideally you would be able to commit to at least two years to help them explore new interests, skills and hobbies or even just go for a walk in the park.
Find out more www.stockton.gov.uk/friends
If you would like to volunteer to help some of the wonderful organisations tackling loneliness and social isolation across Stockton-on-Tees or for many other volunteering opportunities visit www.stocktonvolunteers.co.uk
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Hi, I’m Jamie, a college student living in Stockton-on-Tees. I’m very pleased to be able to tell you more about Bright Minds Big Futures (BMBF).
I joined BMBF in 2019 because I wanted to share my opinion on our local area, but also meet and spend time with some amazing people.
My first role was as a Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council Correspondent for SIRF 2019. The festival is our highlight of the year: spending three days together, watching some outstanding acts, all whilst being able to showcase it on social media. My highlight was having a role in Les Gloriables! It really broke the ice with everyone.
I then heard about the Big Committee, a group of 12 young people that represent different areas and gives them a chance to create change. The elections were my chance to be involved
even further with BMBF and I was voted as the Head of Business and Regeneration. As a relatively new member, I was extremely proud to be able to get this role.
I have now had the chance to start assessing businesses for our BMBF Approved scheme. This allows us to showcase which companies are young people friendly so that they can feel safe when they are within the Borough. My favourite has to be The Georgian Theatre in Stockton.
I hope to continue developing new and exciting schemes to make Stockton-on-Tees the best it can be. BMBF is also giving me the opportunity to plan our fundraiser concert Secret Sound. I can’t wait!
Visit www.stockton.gov.uk/bmbf for information on how you or a young person you know can join the campaign, how you can help us understand what young people need and want in the Borough, and how to access a whole host of opportunities and events.
Making their markBright Minds Big Futures, the Borough’s youth-led movement, is continuing its great work in 2020. Read more about some of its recent projects here.
Supporting the fight against knife crimeBright Minds Big Futures member, Netanya Alwis, became the first non-elected Member to speak for the Mayor when seconding a motion at a Council meeting.
Netanya (pictured), Head for Community Safety for BMBF, spoke at the Council meeting in January to share her perspective on knife crime as a young person and called on the Council to support the British Youth Council project and the Chris Cave Foundation. The motion was passed unanimously.
“I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to speak at the meeting on this important subject. It was an honour and a privilege,” Netanya said.
A visit to the heart of UK politicsNine members of BMBF’s Big Committee boarded the train to visit the Palace of Westminster in London.
The group were given a full tour including the House of Commons and the House of Lords, as well as many other offices and meeting rooms. Parts of the building date back over 900 years, and remain mostly untouched.
They also witnessed the Speaker’s procession, the ceremonial opening of the House of Commons which takes place each day.
The visit left BMBF’s Big Committee inspired and ready to look at politics on a more local level in Stockton-on-Tees and deliver on their Big Plan.
To find out more about the Big Plan and to get involved with Bright Minds Big Futures, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/bmbf
Making life
easierChildren and adults with physical, health and learning disabilities can find it difficult to carry out every day activities that most people take for granted.
But across Stockton-on-Tees a team of Occupational Therapists are doing what they can to make life just that little bit easier.
Bob and Pauline Halliday from Billingham were recently assessed and as a result were provided with a rise and recliner chair as well as a level access shower, as Pauline explains: “Our Occupational Therapist, Laura, has been brilliant throughout this process. The chair is very comfortable and makes it easier for Bob to stand up and the level access shower has made things much easier and safer as well as increasing his independence.
She added: “We do not have carers coming in for Bob and with the equipment in place we do not need them.”
The Occupational Therapy team can:
• Identify the right support to address people’s needs
• Teach strategies and help adapt the home to keep people as independent and safe as possible
• Help residents stay connected within their community
For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/adult-services
Heart Support sessions are free and held weekly at the following venues
Mon 1.00-2.30pm Grangefield Community Centre, Stockton TS18 4HY
Tues 5.30-7.00pm Hartlepool People’s Centre, Hartlepool TS24 8AH
Wed 12.30-2.00pm Hardwick Community Centre, Hardwick TS19 8LB
Thurs 1.00-2.30pm Wolviston Court Community Centre, Billingham TS22 5DE
The Mayor, Councillor Lynn Hall, joined representatives from Catalyst at the anniversary celebration for Heart Support. She said: “I was delighted to attend Heart Support’s anniversary event. The group offers a brilliant service in not only supporting those with a heart condition, but also working to dispel loneliness in our community. It was a pleasure to celebrate their hard work and I am looking forward to seeing what they achieve over the coming year.”
Heart Support offers exercise classes for residents of the Stockton-on-Tees and Hartlepool areas who are affected by a heart condition. It also holds social events for its members such as quizzes and race nights.
A hearty celebration
Could occupational therapy be your next career move?Being an Occupational Therapist is really rewarding and you make such a big difference to people’s lives. You can enter the profession through a vocational apprenticeship, working as an Occupational Therapy Assistant whilst learning on the job, or go to university to study. A good tip would also be to shadow occupational therapists to gain an insight into the role. Why not give it a go?
For shadowing opportunities email [email protected]
Bob and Pauline Halliday with occupational therapist, Laura.
For more information about Heart Support contact Heather Bunce on 01642 653638, Madge Preston on 01642 862959 or Ian Austin on 01642 862959.
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We’re outstanding!White House Care Home in Hartburn is celebrating an ‘outstanding’ rating from the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Home Manager, Nikki Brown, is delighted. She said: “This rating is testament to the hard work the team put in to providing a first class experience for our residents and our on-going work with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council to improve standards.” The inspection report highlighted the home’s “particularly creative” approach to keeping residents active and involved which has made a real difference to their wellbeing.
The care home, which offers residential care for up to 29 older people, has organised wheelchair ice skating, trips out on a boat and also hosts baby yoga classes to connect residents with young families in their community.
Businesses across Stockton-on-Tees are being urged to do their bit to help their employees improve their health and wellbeing.
By signing up to the Better Health At Work Award scheme employees can easily access health information and support, which in turn can reduce the number of staff absences and lead to increased productivity and staff performing better at work.
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council holds the Continuing Excellence Award and now the local authority is encouraging other employers to follow in its footsteps.
Last year 17 local businesses achieved awards, collectively reaching nearly 11,500 employees.
Jo Laing from Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies in Billingham said: “We pride ourselves on promoting a variety of campaigns associated with health and wellbeing, some
of which are requested by the workforce themselves.
“Last year we invited a local beekeeper who brought his observation hive. His visit promoted the health benefits of honey, gave us the opportunity to buy local honey and learn how beekeeping as a hobby can have a positive impact on wellbeing.
“We are proud to be a continuous part of the award from its inception over ten years ago. It is a pleasure working with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and the TUC, who have been incredibly supportive over this time.”
The scheme is free, flexible and open to all employers in the North East, regardless of size, location or type of business.
Better health at work
Health Advocates from Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies with Laura Horsley (centre) from Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council
Sign up your workplace today by visiting www.betterhealthatworkne.org
“Move more” – that’s the message from the NHS to people living across Stockton-on-Tees this spring.It’s part of the year-round ‘One You’ campaign which is encouraging everyone to be more active, as active people live longer and get ill less.
Being more active is also good for mental health and can even give you more energy.
Let’s get
moving
For more advice on how to be a healthier you visit www.nhs.uk/oneyou
Congratulations!You’re expecting!Help us make sure you get the best care by registering online at:
www.nth.nhs.uk/maternity-form
It’s quick, easy and let’s us plan your care better.
#ContinuityOfCarer
Megan Barber - Community Midwife
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In each edition of Stockton-on-Tees News we bring you news of how the Council, its NHS health partners and other organisations are working together to tackle health inequalities and improve the health and wellbeing of people in the Borough.In this edition we look at the work being done to reduce loneliness and social isolation.
Across our communities there are people who may go for days, weeks or even months without seeing a family member or friend. Even when surrounded by others, some people can still experience loneliness.
Loneliness is an unwelcome feeling of lack or loss of companionship, that many of us will experience in our lifetime. Loneliness can impact on wellbeing and can affect anyone of any age, gender and background – from a young person who has moved schools, to an adult who is coming to terms with a long term health condition or an older person recently bereaved.
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council support a range of services to help people who are struggling with loneliness and social isolation, including an initiative called ‘Sporting Chance’ delivered by Volunteering Matters.
Sporting Chance helps support men aged over 50 to increase the amount of physical exercise they undertake, improve their mood and social interaction, and decrease loneliness.
Cervical screening saves livesMake cervical screening part of your routine and enjoy exclusive rewards.Cervical screening prevents at least 2,000 cervical cancer deaths each year in the UK but across the North East one in four women are missing out on this important test.
Hairdressers, leisure facilities, beauty salons and restaurants are among the businesses across Stockton-on-Tees who are trying to help encourage more
women to get checked by offering Screen Stars discounts to anyone who has had the test.
To take advantage of the offers, all you need to do is request your Screen Stars card at the end of your cervical screening appointment.
To check out current offers visit www.screeningsaveslives.co.uk reduceyourrisk
#BeautifulInsideAndOut
screeningsaveslives.co.uk
Screen StarsThe reward scheme for cervical screening participants
SALONS for SCREENING
Attended a Cervical Screen?Don’t forget to ask your GP or nurse for your Screen Stars Card!
Feeling lonely? Get connected!
Men can take part in organised physical activity groups such as walking football, reminiscence sessions, events and outings. The activities are supportive, open to all and sustainable over the long term.
To find out more visit www.stocktonvolunteers.co.uk and search for Sporting Chance.
The Council also commissions the Stockton Service Navigation Project (SSNP) to provide a range of support for anyone living in Stockton aged 16 plus with a common mental health problem such as stress, depression, anxiety or those with a long term health condition such as diabetes. SSNP can support individuals to improve their health and wellbeing by helping them to access activities and services, with the aim of increasing confidence, control, independence, reducing stress and isolation
Find out more at www.facebook.com/stocktonnavigation
Across Stockton-on-Tees there is a wide network of community based pharmacies offering a great package of support to help you look after your health. The pharmacy staff have had extra training to get ‘Healthy Living Pharmacies’ status. It means they can offer support, advice and guidance that can help prevent illness caused by lifestyle choices or lack of awareness of illness and medication.
The team can also help people to identify early warning signs and if needed refer them to a health professional or GP. They are a valuable source of information on a wide variety of health problems and if they can’t help in the pharmacy, they can put you in touch with the right person.
What services do pharmacies offer?
• Over the counter advice on a wide range of minor ailments
• Dispensing and advice on medicines as well as medicine reviews
• Advice to stop smoking
• Sexual health and Emergency Contraception
• Substance misuse advice
• Advice relating to alcohol consumption
And much more.
Pop into your local pharmacy to find out more.
Zia Haq, from Pharmacy 365, a Healthy Living Pharmacy, on Stockton High Street
Let’s Talk Fostering
Delivered by
Do you have the heart to foster?Come along to an information
5.30pm Thursday 21 May 2020Stockton Central Library
Telephone: 01642 526218 Email: [email protected] Visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/fostering
chs0085-2020-new branding.indd 2 07/02/2020 09:16
Healthy Living Pharmacies are here to help
Pharmacist, Zia Haq
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Hundreds of homes across Stockton-on-Tees can get a new central heating system fitted for free thanks to the Warm Homes Fund.The offer is open to homeowners or renters who have a private landlord, where the home has never had a central heating system.
If you live in an eligible postcode and meet the criteria you could receive a range of benefits including an efficient new gas boiler, radiators, heating controls and all necessary pipework. This will also improve the energy efficiency of your home and could save you money.
The deadline for applications is 31 December 2021 and you can apply for yourself or on behalf of somebody else.
For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/whf
Cleveland Fire Brigade are reminding households across Stockton-on-Tees to protect their property from arson. That’s because nearly 90 per cent of fire calls to the service are related to deliberate fires which could be preventable.
Protect your property:
• Only put your wheelie bin out on the day of collection – and bring it back in as soon as possible
• Store your wheelie bin securely and out of sight
• Secure sheds and garages
• Keep boundaries such as hedges and garden fences in good condition
• Clear rubbish from your garden, close windows and keep doors locked
Protect your car:
• Park on your drive or in a secure well-lit area
• Remove any valuables
Protect your neighbourhood:
• Report fly-tipping and broken street lights to www.stockton.gov.uk/report-it
• Report incidents confidentially to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
• Why not join your local neighbourhood watch? Visit www.ourwatch.org.uk
Middlesbrough and Stockton Mind is a charity established by a group of local people to support residents experiencing mental health difficulties.The charity works with more than 6,000 people each year to improve their mental health and wellbeing.
‘Community Minded’, a new project for Stockton residents, encourages volunteering as a way to support better mental health. The campaign works with many local organisations to offer volunteering opportunities for people with diverse interests including gardening, befriending, arts and crafts, and even radio presenting.
Project Worker, Matthew Williams, said: “Volunteering can be good for mental health in so many ways; it helps you to meet new people, learn new skills, apply existing skills in a new way, and it can also offer a real sense of purpose.”
Kayleigh Dove, Project Worker, added: “We work with each person to support them in achieving their goals and help them overcome any barriers. We also offer a training course – Get Ready to Give Back – which helps to develop the skills needed for volunteering.”
The campaign also supports people to set up their own projects and peer support groups. Matthew said: “There is a thriving voluntary sector in Stockton and everybody can make a difference.”
If you are interested in Community Minded and would like to know more, please contact Kayleigh or Matthew on 01642 796635 or at communityminded@ middlesbroughand stocktonmind.org.uk
SPOTLIGHT ON
Prevent deliberate fires
For more fire safety information go to www.clevelandfirebrigade.gov.uk/safety
Keeping your Home
WarmWarm
Keeping us SAFEPeople living across Stockton-on-Tees are being reminded to always check a vehicle is licensed before travelling in it.There are more than 780 licensed drivers, nearly 680 licensed vehicles and 25 licensed operators in the Borough.
Before they can operate, private hire and hackney carriage (or taxi) drivers must acquire a licence.
To get one they must:
• Agree to annual DBS checks
• Have a DVLA Group 2 medical examination
• Take part in safeguarding awareness training
• Take a Knowledge Test Pass Certificate, which includes a demonstration of knowledge of the area
• Pass a Tees Valley Driving Assessment
The vehicles they drive also need a proper licence. To get one they are tested for safety and suitably by:
• Biannual compliance tests as well as annual MOT testing
• Tinted window testing
• Vehicle age specifications
To report any concerns, contact the Licensing Team on 01642 524802 or email [email protected].
Across Stockton-on-Tees community groups, voluntary organisations and residents do fantastic work which is helping to tackle poverty and promote community cohesion. Here we take a look at some of the projects that are under way.Stockton-on-Tees Food Power Network
Earlier this year, a Food Sustainability Network event saw organisations and volunteers look at reducing food waste across Stockton-on-Tees.
Hartisan Breads and Barefoot Kitchen both supplied meals at the event made from supermarket food waste which otherwise would have gone into landfill.
The group discussed the benefits of creating a food sustainability network and the Stockton-on-Tees Food Power Network was established.
Cooking up a treat
Families living in Hardwick took part in a cooking workshop delivered by Community Interest Company, Little Sprouts and funded by North Star Housing.
Families learnt how to create a healthy snack or meal using just produce from a foodbank, and also received a cooking essentials pack.
Citizens Advice Bureau and Tees Credit Union will attend future sessions to give advice to attending families.
What a difference our communities can make
For more information about events like this email [email protected] or call 01642 528830.
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The countdown is on to the opening of the Globe in November. The Stockton town centre venue now has a brand new roof as work to restore the Grade II listed building gathers pace. The stage and orchestra pit are also nearly finished.
Meanwhile a new dressing room block is being built at the back of the building, with the steelwork, liftshaft and decking in place already. A state-of-the-art scissor lift will allow large shows with sets and equipment to be moved from street level directly down to the stage.
The venue is gearing up to bring the biggest names in music and comedy back to Stockton for the first time in more than 40 years. General Manager, Jo Ager, at the world-renowned Ambassador Theatre Group is busy pursuing bands, acts and performers.
ATG is also set to establish itself as part of Stockton’s already popular live entertainment scene – starting with sponsoring a stage at Stockton Calling in April. The popular music festival will see over 80 bands perform across Stockton town centre’s music venues. Find out more at www.stocktoncalling.co.uk
The Globe’s restoration is being funded by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund’s Heritage Enterprise scheme.
To keep up to date with the progress, follow the journey on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheGlobeStockton
To register for show news and offers visit www.atgtickets.com/stockton-globe-sign-up
Globe General Manager, Jo Ager
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New homes just months awayGround has been broken in central Stockton as work to build 143 high quality homes on The Sycamores development gets under way.
The Council is working with Keepmoat Homes on an £18.7million redevelopment of the former Victoria Estate. The two, three and four-bedroom houses and two-bedroom bungalows will meet demands of buyers who are looking for well located, competitively priced, high quality houses.
Open, green spaces to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists will be a feature of the site as well as walkways to nearby shops, bars, restaurants and venues in Stockton.
20 per cent of the new homes will be provided for affordable rent.
Richard McGuckin, Director of Economic Growth and Development at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, said: “We are thrilled to see the site
picking up pace. The new development will offer houses to buy and rent that are within walking distance to our town centre. We hope this will encourage people to live locally and will aid us in rejuvenating our town centres and high streets in different ways.”
Show homes are expected to be open to the public from spring this year and it is hoped the first residents will move in the summer.
For more information visit www.keepmoat.com/the-sycamores
Membership open for Ingleby Barwick Leisure CentreA new leisure centre will open in Ingleby Barwick this summer.
The £13million IB Leisure, being built by the Council and operated by Tees Active, will have two swimming pools, a fitness suite and gym as well as a library and customer service centre.
The first wave of Activ8 Health and Fitness memberships will be released in April. Activ8 members can also enjoy unlimited access to the Tees Active facilities at Billingham Forum, Stockton Splash and Thornaby Pavilion. Members of any of these centres can transfer to IB Leisure once it opens.
If you’re interested in joining Activ8 at IB Leisure join the mailing list online at www.teesactive.co.uk/ib-leisure
To receive the latest leisure news, events and promotions at IB Leisure sign up to the Tees Active mailing list at www.teesactive.co.uk/ingleby-barwick
For information about the library and customer service centre email [email protected]
Located in th
Yarm High Street has been crowned winner of the ‘Rising Star’ category in this year’s Great British High Street of the Year Awards.The High Street was nominated for the award by Yarm Business Forum, with winners being decided by a combination of scores from a judging visit and a public vote.
And after reaching a shortlist of 10, Yarm beat off the competition to be named the ‘England’ winner at a ceremony in Edinburgh.
As a winner, Yarm Business Forum [pictured] will get £5000 to spend on an event to engage and contribute towards the local community, such as a street party, community initiative or sustainability programme.
To keep up to date about Yarm Business Forum visit www.facebook.com/yarmbusinessforum
The striking mural in Green Dragon Yard in Stockton has been restored, thanks to the Stockton Business Improvement District (BID) who commissioned local artist, Abby Taylor, to return the original by the late Zak Newton to its former glory.
Reviving the Green Dragon
Yarm High Street scoops national award
Great British High Street judges with members of Yarm Business Forum
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Easter collectionsDuring the Easter period, waste and recycling collections will be carried out as normal with the collection teams working on Good Friday to ensure there is no disruption.
Green fingers at the readyIt’s National Gardening Week next month and to mark it Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is giving away over 8 tonnes of soil improver.Any resident of Stockton-on-Tees can take advantage of the offer.
It will be available from the morning of Monday 27 April at the former incinerator site near Newport Bridge on a first come, first served basis.
Most of us know that recycling is much better for the environment rather than incinerating waste or putting it into landfill, so why don’t more of us do it?
We hope that by answering some of the most common questions we receive about our recycling service, we can encourage more people to take part.
Why should we recycle?When we recycle, used materials are converted into new products, reducing the need to consume natural resources. This helps conserve important raw materials and protects natural habitats for the future. Recycling also saves energy and reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which helps to tackle climate change.
RECYCLINGLet’s talk about...
There are too many different bags and boxes. Why can’t we have a recycling wheelie bin?Due to stricter environmental controls, local authorities that collect all recycling into one wheelie bin are having to pay more to have the materials separated. We have made it easier for you to recycle. All you need to do is put your clean glass and batteries into the blue box and everything else into the white bag.
Don’t we have an energy from waste plant in the Borough – isn’t this enough?It’s true we do create energy from a lot of our waste, but the energy created is not as good as recycling so we should always try to recycle wherever possible.
How else can I recycle? Don’t forget, in addition to your fortnightly recycling collections, you can take larger items to the household waste and recycling facility at Haverton Hill. There are also several community recycling centres in convenient places such as supermarket car parks and shopping centres.
To find out more about recycling visit www.stockton.gov.uk/recycling
Green Waste collections are back
Fortnightly green waste collections return from Monday 6 April until Friday 30 October.
To check all kerbside collections from your home visit www.stockton.gov.uk/greenwaste or sign up to My Stockton at www.stockton.gov.uk/mystockton
Green Waste collections
Fortnightly green waste collections return from Monday 6 April until Friday 30 October.To check all kerbside collections from your home visit www.stockton.gov.uk/greenwaste or sign up to My Stockton at www.stockton.gov.uk/mystockton
are back
Did you know Stockton-on-Tees has one of the lowest recycling rates in the country?
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Love Your Local Market is returning to Stockton-on-Tees this May.Come along to Thornaby on Thursday 14 May and Billingham on Monday 18 May for a wide range of stalls and market competitions.
On Saturday 23 May there will be fun for all the family as we celebrate Love Your Local Market with a free fun-day on Stockton High Street. And why not come along to support the Borough’s aspiring young entrepreneurs who will be offering an array of handmade crafts at the Young Traders Market too.
For more information about the Borough’s markets visit www.stockton.gov.uk/markets
Don’t forget to follow @stocktononteesmarkets on Facebook to keep up to date with the latest market news.
Tees Barrage hits the Big Screen Film crews were spotted filming at the Tees Barrage International White Water Course last summer – and it has now been revealed why. The award winning visitor attraction plays a starring role in Sir Sam Mendes’ latest blockbuster, 1917.
The World War I drama features British actors George MacKay (Pride) and Dean-Charles Chapman (Game of Thrones) along with Mark Strong, Andrew Scott, Richard Madden, Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch.
Tees Active Managing Director Leon Jones, said: “We are thrilled to be part of such an incredible movie with some of the biggest names in film. 1917 is a real Hollywood epic that has given our staff and everyone involved a rare opportunity to experience something extra special.”
George MacKay in 1917
Your guide to unmissable events happening across Stockton-on-Tees this spring and summer. Visit www.enjoyteesvalley.com/stockton-on-tees or pick up a copy of the Enjoy Stockton-on-Tees events guide available at libraries and customer service centres across the Borough for full details.
Love your local market
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STOCKTON CALLINGSaturday 18 April Stockton town centreThe daylong music festival produced and promoted by Tees Music Alliance, ARC and KU Promotions returns for its 11th anniversary to showcase some of the best original emerging music as well as familiar favourites.
STOCKTON DUATHLON FESTIVALSunday 26 April Stockton RiversideOne of the UK’s best duathlons set against Stockton’s picturesque riverside offers three different run-cycle-run races suitable for complete beginners to prospective world champions.
SUPERCAR SATURDAYSaturday 2 MayStockton High Street
The popular event is back for 2020 and will see the High Street lined with an extraordinary selection of supercars. Get up close with the latest models alongside racing, classic and vintage cars. In association with JPC Specialist Motorsport.
TEES REGATTASaturday 16 May River Tees Watersports CentreClubs from across the region flock to the scenic River Tees to compete in this thrilling rowing event. There will be a wide range of events in three divisions, offering varied races for competitors and spectators alike.
STOCKTON STAGESFriday 5 – Saturday 6 June Stockton town centreStockton’s music and comedy festival returns to venues throughout the town centre this summer. Enjoy a thrilling array of live talent as well as free family entertainment on Stockton High Street.
FIRE ENGINE AND VINTAGE VEHICLE SHOWSaturday 27 – Sunday 28 June Preston Park Museum & GroundsThe annual Fire Engine and Vintage Vehicle Show returns to Preston Park with a weekend full of thrills for all the family. There will be more than 300 impressive vehicles with live stunts and activities suitable for all.
KAPOWSaturday 4 July Stockton town centreKAPOW Sci-Fi Market and Family Fun Day will be packed with events and activities for the whole family. We invite you to step into a magical world, featuring life-size Star Wars props, fantastic costumed characters, traders and a whole lot more - this incredible event is one not to be missed.
EID FUSION FESTIVALSunday 5 July 12pm-5pm Ropner Park
Brought to you by The Friends of Ropner Park and The Community Welfare Trust, Eid Fusion Festival returns to Ropner Park this July. Bringing together British, Asian and other local ethnic communities, there will be fun for all the family including a variety of stalls, activities and live music and performances.
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Anyone who fancies a walk in the fresh air now has a new route to explore.Following seven years of development the Stockton-on-Tees part of the England Coastal Path has opened.
The ten mile stretch between Newport Bridge and North Gare includes a previously inaccessible stretch that passes through a unique industrial landscape and has an array of natural and diverse wildlife to discover, including RSPB Saltholme and Teesmouth National Nature Reserve.
The England Coast Path, once complete, will be the longest managed and waymarked coastal path in the world. Stretching a whopping 2,795 miles, it will stretch across the entirety of the English coastline and will be complete in 2021.
To plan your route visit www.nationaltrail.co.uk
Feature lighting marks Fair Trade fortnightThe Newport Bridge, Stockton Riverside, Stockton Town Hall and fountain as well as the town centre lampposts were lit green and blue last month to celebrate Fairtrade fortnight.
The feature lighting changes colour on a number of occasions throughout the year to coincide with nationally recognised commemoration and awareness days.
Interestingly on 28 March all the lights will be switched off between 8.30pm and 9.30pm to support Earth Hour.
But don’t worry, the lights are powered by super energy efficient LEDs so even when they are switched on they are environmentally friendly.
To see the full 2020 lighting programme visit www.stockton.gov.uk/featurelighting
STOCKTON CYCLING FESTIVAL Saturday 11 – Sunday 12 July Stockton RiversideCycling fever returns in July with the annual Stockton Cycling Festival. This exciting free event offers a packed weekend of events for the whole family including elite racing, cycling challenges for all abilities, stunts, demonstrations and interactive fun, as well as a family fun ride on specially closed roads for everyone to join in.
SIRFThursday 30 July – Sunday 2 August Stockton town centre and Tees Barrage
Be prepared to be entertained, intrigued and exhilarated as SIRF returns with more stunning street theatre, breath-taking circus performances, dynamic dance and music. Look out for updates at www.sirf.co.uk
STOCKTON DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL Sunday 13 September Stockton Riverside
Do you have what it takes to race the dragon? This family day out offers gripping, adrenalin-fuelled dragon boat racing on the River Tees for all ages and abilities. No experience is required as training will be provided. For more information visit www.teesdragonboatfestival.co.uk
195TH ANNIVERSARY OF STOCKTON-DARLINGTON RAILWAYSaturday 26 – Sunday 27 September Stockton town centre
Step back in time in Stockton as we celebrate the 195th Anniversary of Stockton-Darlington Railway. There’ll be fun for all the family as we tell the story of the events of 1825, inspired by the beginnings of the public railways. Join us as we gear up and go full steam ahead in the countdown to the upcoming bicentenary!
Stockton-on-Tees joins the England Coast Path
Supported by
This is just a selection of the fantastic events to enjoy in Stockton-on-Tees. Make sure you don’t miss out! Further information can be found on all of these events and more at www.enjoyteesvalley.com/stockton-on-tees
/enjoyteesvalley Twitter-square @EnjoyTeesValley @enjoyteesvalley
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Exciting future unveiled for Stockton town centre An artist’s impression ©Google
Bold plans for Stockton town centre include a riverside park, green space with uninterrupted access to the waterfront, a central library, customer service centre and council office.
The Castlegate Shopping Centre and Swallow Hotel will be demolished and the site transformed into a riverside park featuring public artwork and a “land bridge” alongside a new office and commercial development such as restaurants.
Last year’s public consultation on the town’s future revealed strong public support for putting the site to a different use.
All of Castlegate’s tenants will be supported to relocate so in future most of the town’s retail offer will be in Wellington Square, the
700-year-old market, and other parts of the High Street and town centre, such as Silver Street.
The new Council building has also been included in the plans as part of the consolidation of the Council’s ten existing offices into two was agreed after condition surveys confirmed the existing buildings need at least £25million worth of maintenance and repairs over the next 25 years.
The running costs of the existing buildings are an additional £1.2million a year.
A second new office will be developed in Billingham, complementing the town’s £2.7million library and customer service centre.
Find out more at www.stockton.gov.uk/towncentres
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Stockton-on-Tees has a long-standing tradition in manufacturing that is still very much in evidence today. Through our regular Made in Stockton-on-Tees feature we take a look at some of the Borough’s manufacturing success stories.
Located in the aptly named ‘Tooth Towers’ in Billingham, WhiteWash Laboratories manufacture and sell luxury teeth whitening products for professional dental practices and retail markets – including the popular Nano toothbrush range sold globally to retailers like Boots and very.co.uk.
The company was established in 2010 and employs 16 full time staff and over 10 temporary staff as they continue to expand.
Chris McPhillips, Sales Director said: “WhiteWash will be entering its 10th
year of trading this year and things have never been more exciting. We are tremendously proud to be bringing a new type of manufacturing to Teesside and creating products that are shipped all over the world.
“People have asked us in the past ‘Why Teesside?’ And our response is always ‘Why not!’. We intend to grow the business steadily over the next 10 years and there is no other place we can see that happening.”
Amongst their latest projects, WhiteWash are proud of their Brush for a Brush charity, created to develop an Oral Health Education Programme that is delivered to schools to educate young children about caring for their teeth. For every WhiteWash product sold, a toothbrush is donated to a child in need.
They recently won ‘Best Small Business’ for Teesside and the North East, and were runner up for ‘Best Small Business’ in the UK.
For more information visit www.whitewashlaboratories.com
Talking about our townsIn the November edition of Stockton-on-Tees News we said we wanted to talk to you about all of the Borough’s towns to understand what you would like to see and how you think they could be supported and developed.
The Stockton town centre consultation took place in September and October. You can read how your views have helped shape the future vision for the town centre on pages 28 and 29.
From the end of December until mid February, we held a series of consultations to find out about your ideas for Billingham, Ingleby Barwick, Norton, Thornaby and Yarm.
Thank you to everyone who took part. More than 1,600 consultation responses were received and now we’re considering them all to help shape the future plans for each of the towns.
We’ll share our findings in the May edition of Stockton-on-Tees News.
Bridge improvements all roundWork is set to get under way on Mandale Bridge in Thornaby next month.
The footpath across the bridge and into Thornaby Railway Station will remain open throughout the works but the road across it will close from the end of June to the end of August. For further information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/mandale
Meanwhile, a masterplan that will see extra parking and a new western
footbridge with lifts to enhance access to Eaglescliffe Railway Station was unveiled.
Funding has also been agreed for a footbridge over the A689 connecting Wynyard Park and Wynyard Village. Funding has also been secured to provide disabled access to Billingham Railway Station.
Let’s talk about our towns1. Stockton Town Centre
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Let’s talk about our townsNorton
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Let’s talk about our townsYarm High Street
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Let’s talk about our townsBillingham Town Centre
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Let’s talk about our townsThornaby Town Centre
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Tees Valley Business supportTees Valley Business, formerly known as Compass, has received a £35million investment to offer business support for the region’s businesses.
The programme will provide local businesses with a single point of contact for a range of support to help them start up and grow, including comprehensive advice on funding and finance options and assistance in establishing links with potential funding sources.
It will also include a £20million Tees Valley Business Fund, the largest investment fund of its kind in the region, awarding grants and loans to firms looking to invest, expand and create jobs.
The scheme will build upon the current Tees Valley Business Compass service, which has offered guidance and funding to around 1,400 local businesses since 2017.
For more information and to register your interest, visit www.teesvalleybusiness.com
Learning that lastsA full time carer has returned to the classroom to enhance her independence and learn valuable new life skills. Julie Scoon has been attending a number of courses through Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Learning and Skills Service including ICT functional skills.
Julie said: “I bought myself a laptop several years ago, but I didn’t know how to use it. After contacting the library, they put me in touch with the Stockton Learning & Skills Service and that is where it all started. I attended the Level 1 and 2 ICT Functional Skills course which gave me the opportunity to be around people and socialise whilst learning a new skill. I can go days without seeing anyone except my father and sister who I care for, but with the Learning & Skills Service I can take some time to do something new and make friends at the same time.
“I have completed numerous short courses and I have recently revived my passion for art through their art course.
“The tutors are kind and incredibly patient. Their welcoming nature creates a calm atmosphere to learn and grow as a person and it gives me something to look forward to each week.”
Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s Learning & Skills team offer a range of free courses from beginners up to GCSE level equivalent. Both daytime and evening classes are available.
To find out more visit www.slss.ac.uk or call 01642 527904.
More than five hundred young people from Stockton-on-Tees have been supported as apprentices thanks to the Stockton Youth Employment Fund.The programme supports 16-24 year olds whilst also working with businesses across Stockton-on-Tees to help them find the right apprentice for their business needs.
One of those businesses is Niche Hair Salon in Norton. Owner and manager, Patricia Flaherty, said: “The funding from Stockton’s Youth Employment Scheme helped me train our apprentice Hannah Darroch.
“Applying for the grant was easy, and I was pleased that it was not only going to help my business, but a young person too. I would recommend it to anyone who would like an apprentice and would benefit from the extra funding to support their training.”
Hannah commented “I’ve really enjoyed working at Niche Salon. I am working towards becoming a stylist. I’ve been welcomed by the team and I’ve been trained in the best way possible.”
If you are a local business who would like to hire an apprentice or you would like some further information about the funding and support available email [email protected] or call 01642 528384.
500th Apprentice into work
Apprentice Hannah Darroch with Manager Patricia Flaherty
Calling all budding entrepreneursThe search is on for the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Anyone aged between 11 and 18, who currently attends a school, college or youth organisation in the Borough, and has a business idea, can apply for funding of up to £250 to help them start-up.
It is part of Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council’s youth enterprise competition which will give anyone who takes part the opportunity to attend workshops
on idea generation and development, along with help with preparing an application.
There will also be ongoing enterprise support throughout the competition from a local enterprise champion who will act as a mentor.
The deadline to apply is Friday 24 April.
To apply and find out more, email [email protected]
Young entrepreneurs selling their wares at at the Young Traders Market
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With national initiatives like the Summer Reading Challenge and events like Harry Potter Book Night, the Borough’s libraries find their children’s sections busier than ever – and Angela Foster is the driving force behind much of the activity.As Children and Young Person’s Librarian, Angela oversees a real mixture of library services for young people. From ensuring the library keeps an exciting range of books aimed at under-21s to organising visits to local schools, there’s never a dull moment.
In addition to planning new initiatives, Angela also helps keep old favourites fresh and is looking forward to running the 23rd Stockton Children’s Book of the Year competition later this year.
She said: “It’s wonderful to choose the new children and young adult’s stock for the library. I do a lot of reading in my spare time to make sure we provide not only the current authors, but less well-known writers too. There are
some fantastic reads just waiting to be discovered and there’s never been so much quality choice for younger readers.
“We also support parents to encourage their children to read. Through the charity Bookstart, we gift books to new families and provide packs in nurseries to support the early years’ programme. We take the mobile library into schools too - that way we can try to make sure all children have easy access to reading.”
Angela has brought 13 years of experience working as a school librarian to the role, helping her form connections with local schools and forming a strong local presence for the library.
She added: “There’s so much local support for a busy, active children’s programme. To see the kids’ responses to an author describing their journey or becoming inspired by a new story – seeing their faces light up – that’s the most fulfilling part of the job.”
For more information, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries
Angela Foster Children and Young Person’s Librarian
LI FEDay in the
Welcome to our regular feature where we bring you news about how Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council is working for you.Our library service has more than 215,000 books in its nine libraries across the Borough, with an additional 7,600 ebooks available free to download. And there’s so much more at your local library.
You or a member of your family may have attended one of the many events hosted by our libraries for adults, for families or for children. We offer book nights, craft groups, quizzes and rhyme times.
We also provide library services including reading materials and access to ICT equipment to Holme House and Kirklevington Grange Prison.
Stockton Central Library boasts a look into the past and the future, with access to the Reference Library where you can research your family history, as well as the state-of-the-art Innovation Station with 3D printing and laser cutting technology.
All of our libraries provide access to ICT facilities, all with free Wi-Fi too.
The Mobile Library Service is available for those who are unable to use our community library venues. The service is free of charge and delivers the same range of materials direct to your door.
If you want to see what’s happening in your local library, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/libraries or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.
Ambitious, effective and proud to serve
Access to books for all
Easy to use ICT facilities
Meet your favourite authors
Step into the past in the reference libraryA packed programme of chilldren’s activities
State-of-the-art equipment in the Innovation Station
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Earlier this month Stockton-on-Tees Borough Councillors agreed their vision and hopes for the Borough for the next three years.
The 2020-23 Council plan sets out the Council’s vision for the Borough to be:
• A place where people are healthy, safe and protected from harm
• A place that is clean, vibrant and attractive, and
• A place with a thriving economy where everyone has opportunities to succeed.
The 2020-23 Council Plan also sets out how this vision will be achieved and the key priorities that the Council will be working on in the coming year to bring this vision to life. Here is a small sample of the priority areas of work which have been identified for 2020/21.
Our People
• Plan and implement new ways of improving children’s emotional health
• Reduce the number of children who need to be in care
• Continuously improve quality of care within adults and children’s homes
Our Places
• Complete Ingleby Barwick leisure centre and library
• Open the Globe
• Develop a programme of events in towns across the Borough
Our Economy
• Ensure effective careers provision and support for all pupils
• Develop and implement the vision for all our town centres
• Develop routes to work to assist those furthest from employment
Councillors met at the end of February to agree the budget for the coming financial year and to set the Medium Term Financial Plan.Protecting the areas and people most in need will continue to be the priority.
Since 2010 annual Government funding to the Council has reduced by £73million and the funding arrangements for 2021 onwards are extremely uncertain, as national reviews of Local Authority funding and funding for social care are ongoing.
Meanwhile the numbers of children in care are increasing and there are cost pressures in a number of other areas such as adult social care, and road and pavement maintenance. To help with this councillors agreed to increase Council Tax by 1.9 per cent this year and to implement the Government’s 2 per cent Adult Social Care Levy.
As well as highlighting mounting cost pressures, the budget also outlined major investment in the Borough’s schools, roads, housing and town centres. Among the projects were:
• The £52million investment programme in school buildings across the Borough
• The new Ingleby Barwick leisure centre which is due to open in the summer
• The Globe restoration which is coming along well with the venue on track to open in November
• £3million investment in Billingham,
Ingleby Barwick, Norton, Thornaby and Yarm
Despite the challenging financial times, external auditors continue to praise how well the Council is managing its finances.
You can read more about the Council’s budget and Medium Term Financial plan at www.stockton.gov.uk/councilfinances
Maintaining the Borough’s roads
The new IB Leisure Centre
The Globe restoration
You can find out more at www.stockton.gov.uk/councilplan
Budget update
Ambitious plans for Stockton- on-Tees
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Easy access to planning adviceIt’s now easier than ever to ask for planning advice from Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council.
A new online form has been launched to help residents request information.
Anyone looking for pre-planning advice, planning enforcement information or with a general planning query can complete a simple online form which will be sent automatically to the relevant team to respond.
Find out more at www.stockton.gov.uk/planningforms
Here we bring you our regular update on the consultations being carried out by the Council.To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/consultations
To keep track of all Council led consultations, visit the My Views consultation portal at www.stockton.gov.uk/myviews
How Stockton readsEarlier this month, the Library and Information Service began a consultation to find out about our reading habits. To help us continue to offer a good library service, and to help plan for the future, we’d like residents and visitors of all ages to tell us how often they read, what they like to read and whether they use the library or not.
The results of the consultation will be used to identify how our libraries can better encourage and support reading, which is such an important life skill. The survey will end in April 2020.
To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/consultations
Community safetyA consultation seeking resident’s views on the priorities of the Safer Stockton Partnership ended this month.
The consultation responses will be considered as part of the Community Safety Plan update. The plan is produced every three years and outlines how the Safer Stockton Partnership will work towards achieving targets in crime reduction in the Borough.
For further information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/ssp
Become a member of ViewpointViewpoint is the Council’s voluntary residents’ consultation panel which seeks the views of residents using monthly surveys that cover a range of Council services. The Viewpoint panel plays an important role in informing and influencing the Council’s decision making and activities.
You can apply to be part of the Viewpoint Panel if you are over 18 years old and live in Stockton-on-Tees. For more information, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/viewpoint
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Regional recognition for apprenticeship schemeStockton-on-Tees Borough Council recruited 40 new apprentices across a range of services last year, receiving more than 900 applications for the positions.By the end of 2019 more than 100 Council employees were on an apprentice contract or undertaking an apprenticeship qualification to support their personal development.
This success has led to the Council being named runner-up for Overall Employer of the Year at Northern Skills Group Apprenticeship Awards 2020 for the Tees Valley and North Yorkshire region.
Donya Forbes (pictured), Apprentice Catering Supervisor, was also shortlisted for Level 2 Apprentice of the Year at the Northern Skills Group Apprenticeship Awards.
As part of her apprenticeship, Donya has worked in a school kitchen and at the Council’s civic kitchen, preparing food for events such as weddings and Mayoral functions.
The Council plans to recruit another group of apprentices in May 2020, for employment to start in September 2020.
All of these apprentices will be paid at or above the national minimum wage, which is higher than the standard rate of pay for apprenticeships.
To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/apprenticeships
Council praised for employees’ domestic abuse supportStockton-on-Tees Borough Council has been nationally recognised for its efforts to support employees affected by domestic abuse.
The Council was one of five organisations awarded with the inaugural ‘Everyone’s Business’ accreditation by crisis support charity, Hestia.
The award recognises an employer’s role in identifying domestic abuse and responding quickly, effectively and with compassion.
The Council contracts specialist charity, Harbour, to provide a range of support services to anyone in Stockton-on-Tees affected by domestic abuse.
If you or someone you know is affected by domestic abuse, contact Harbour’s 24-hour helpline 03000 20 25 25 or visit www.myharbour.org.uk
And remember, if somebody is in immediate danger call the police – dial 999.
HR Team Manager, Liz Purdy
Apprentice, Donya Forbes
Crematorium MemorialsStockton-on-Tees’ crematorium is now offering a range of memorials to give a personal, lasting tribute to remember a loved one. The unique memorial sculptures have been designed by a local blacksmith and are bespoke to Stockton-on-Tees crematorium. Each display features wrought iron flowers where a small memorial plaque can be placed. The crematorium also offers memorial wall plaques and above ground memorial vaults. Located on site is a memorial garden, with a memorial wall, gardens of remembrance, a book of remembrance and infant memorials.
To find out more about the crematorium, visit www.stocktoncrematorium.co.uk
For more information on memorials and to request an application form, email: [email protected]
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@bowiegirl_
