www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk

Summer 2019

Batting forNewark andSherwoodPromoting investment in leisure, business and the environment

You have your say in our Residents’ Survey - see pages 16/17

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk2 3Tel: 01636 650000 @NSDCouncil

Howzat for a solution to sports provision?

In sport, the winner usually takes it all. But there are some situations where everyone ends up a winner.

Take the scenario involving the development of the Newark and Sherwood YMCA’s Community and Activity Village off Bowbridge Road in Newark, and Newark R&M Cricket Club whose facilities were split between two sites, located at different ends of the town – one at Elm Avenue and the other at Kelham Road.

The Elm Avenue pitch was in a prime spot needed by the YMCA to develop its exciting masterplan for a multi-sports facility on the Bowbridge Road site but the cricket club still needed a second pitch – preferably close to its

long-established Kelham Road base.

The district council teamed up with

Sport England, the England and Wales

Cricket Board (ECB), the YMCA and Nottinghamshire

County Council on a solution where the pitch on Elm Avenue became part of the community and activity village and is now the site for track and field athletics. The cricket club has its second pitch at

Kelham Road following a significant investment which transformed a former pony paddock on the site into a first class, 10-wicket playing surface. There are now two pitches, side-by-side.

For the cricket club, the expansion of facilities at Kelham Road opens up new opportunities for its nine senior and junior teams, particularly in attracting young people to the sport, while the YMCA has been able to forge ahead with developing the impressive community and activity village, complementing the nearby Newark Sports and Fitness Centre, and providing an impressive resource for the sporting public.

Newark R&M Cricket Club chairman Luc Chignell said: “Cricket has been played at Kelham Road for almost 200 years but the demands of the game have changed significantly in that time. Thanks to this investment in local sport, we can consolidate our cricket provision at one location and recognise our full potential to cater for the requirements of the modern game.

“We can offer more opportunities for everyone to play, across a variety of

competitive and casual formats, while encouraging our youngest players to learn and enjoy the game at their own pace.

“Leaving Elm Avenue was always going to be difficult. Ransome & Marles CC [which merged with Newark CC to join Newark R&M in 2010] enjoyed many happy years of playing at a high standard there and it will be remembered fondly as an important part of local cricket heritage. However, the progressive approach to our departure from there has allowed us to lay the foundations for a successful, self-sufficient and promising future at Kelham Road.”

Plans have been drawn up to double the size of the Southwell centre’s fitness suite which has experienced an increase in demand and a significant rise in all types of memberships in recent years and this is expected to grow further.

Councillor Roger Jackson, district council leisure and environment committee chairman, said:

“Adequate leisure services that meet local needs are vital in any community and it is essential that we respond to market conditions and future population growth.”

The district council has earmarked funding in 2020/21 in its capital plan as its contribution, the town council has agreed to donate land for the extension and the centre will also be providing funds. The centre is operated by Southwell Leisure Centre Trust with financial and management support from

Newark and Sherwood District Council and Active4Today, the district council’s own leisure company. The extension will be managed through a partnership between the trust, district council and Southwell Town Council.

The district council’s investment is the latest in a series to ensure that residents in Newark and Sherwood have appropriate leisure facilities that can be enjoyed for generations to come. It has also approved funding for a brand new swimming pool at the Dukeries Leisure

Centre which is run by Active4Today.

With a 32 per cent population growth anticipated by 2026 in Ollerton and nearby Boughton, an improved leisure facility in the area is needed to meet the expected rise in demand.

Scheduled to open in 2020, the new 20x10 metre pool will be located within the existing site in a separate building and will bring a much-needed boost to the local community. www.active4today.co.uk

A plan of action is in place for the next phases in the development of the YMCA Newark and Sherwood Community and Activity Village which promises a huge range of new facilities.

One particular reason for the excitement is the village’s planned Olympic-standard climbing centre. It will be one of only three walls in the country built to official competition standards of climbing, bouldering and speed climbing. Alongside it will sit a smaller Clip ’n’ Climb facility, catering for younger climbers.

Also planned are further education classes, a dance studio, a community café, digital learning suites and recording studio, dedicated art spaces, kayaking, a community training kitchen and much more.

The village, off Bowbridge Road, is a not-for-profit community hub unlike anywhere else in the country. A space dedicated to improving health, wellbeing and social mobility, the finished space will be home to community and family programmes integrated through arts, education and world-class sports facilities; a place for the entire community to belong, contribute and thrive.

The village is inclusive and accessible with income from the site going towards scholarships and community programmes for families who need a helping hand.

Two 3G pitches and the athletics track are already open for use and the YMCA kicked off its Couch to 5K sessions earlier this year. Visit the website www.ymcanewarksherwood.org/ to book any of the currently available facilities, for individual use, team bookings or private hire.

MaJoR new investment in facilities has been lined up for Southwell Leisure Centre and the Dukeries Leisure Centre in Boughton, ollerton.

Community and activity village reaching new heights

The pony paddock before turning into the cricket pitch

Some of the clubs young players in action

In this edition of Voice we explain how Newark and Sherwood District Council is working hard to achieve this through excellent leisure provision, supporting business, improved infrastructure and a better environment.

Investment is key to planning for the future in Newark and Sherwood

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk4 5Tel: 01636 650000 @NSDCouncil

a Beacon for business in the district

Supporting business and inspiring innovation is key to the Newark Beacon centre which is now being run directly by the district council.

The centre, on Cafferata Way, is unique in that it offers private offices of various sizes as well as studios catering for businesses doing research work, or product development.

The centre also has shared offices where businesses can have a dedicated desk and create their own networks and links with other businesses. Desks are also available on a day-hire basis within each hot-desk set-up with broadband connection and telephone line.

The centre also offers virtual office space providing a business address and support for companies and individuals who require a professional image but do not need office space.

Businesses can also access services such as reception support, conference facilities for up to 70 attendees and meeting rooms catering for groups from four to 70. Catering from the excellent on-site café is available in all conference and meeting rooms. Competitive introductory rates may be adopted and a ‘try before you buy’ approach considered for smaller new businesses. Also, as part of its unique offer, the centre provides users with a programme of active support to all its businesses, including virtual users. Support includes a welcome session for new businesses, an annual business review, the opportunity to undertake a ‘Business Plan Review’ and ‘Development Session’ with a member of the council’s Economic Growth team and networking opportunities and events across the district aimed at helping develop businesses.

Steve Syddall, council assets business manager, said:“It’s our vision that Newark Beacon provides a quality and supportive platform for businesses in Newark and Sherwood to grow and thrive. So if you are a local business, small or growing business or new starter, why not think about using the centre and its excellent facilities?” Find out more here: www.newark-beacon.co.uk or contact the centre on: 01636 653100 or beacon@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk

we’re doing the business

work on hotel transformation under way

Bright future for iconic buildings

Work to transform the derelict former Robin Hood Hotel in Newark into a new hotel is under way.

A total investment of £6.6million will ensure the building’s historic façade will remain, with the Travelodge chain taking the lease for the 66-bedroom venture which is expected to be completed next summer.

It will include three leisure units - possibly a gym, café and restaurant - built on the site which will complement the hotel.

The development, on Lombard Street, will generate up to 70 new jobs and further enhance Newark and Sherwood as a significant tourism designation, particularly in relation to Sherwood Forest, Newark Castle and the National Civil War Centre. It will also help redress the shortage of hotel accommodation in the area.

The three commercial units will also increase the employment and commercial offer of the town and the construction phase will provide a boost for the local economy. Twenty-four hour car parking will be provided nearby for hotel guests.

The council, in partnership with the current owner of the existing buildings MF Strawson Ltd, has set up a joint venture company, RHH Newark Ltd, specifically to ensure that the development is delivered.

Both parties will make a capital contribution of £3.3million each, of which two-thirds will be returned to each on completion when the Travelodge element of the development is sold on to investors.

Each will retain a share of the leisure units with each party having the option to buy, or sell, the long

leasehold interest in the units. In each scenario for the council, it is projected to either receive a full return on its capital investment or receive a revenue return of six per cent in rental income.

Council leader Councillor David Lloyd said: “This is a prudent and important investment, not just in the development itself, but in the future of Newark town centre.”

Niel Strawson, director of M F Strawson Limited, said: “We are delighted that by working in partnership with Newark and Sherwood District Council, the restoration and construction works to build the 66-bedroom Travelodge Hotel have commenced this summer.”

An exciting new future is being lined up for Newark’s Buttermarket and Royal Exchange.

The district council and Newark Town Council are working in partnership to revitalise the two key buildings which had been left largely empty for some months.

The first phase of a plan of action has seen activity and life brought back to the buildings following necessary refurbishments and repairs, giving time to explore longer term options. Already there is strong market interest from new retail and leisure offers which currently do not have a presence in the town.

These iconic buildings are set to play a major and strategic role in boosting the town’s retail, cultural and leisure provision. They were secured by both councils prior to auction at a cost of £800,000; which is significantly less than the £1.3m paid by the previous owners in 2014.

District council leader David Lloyd said: “Retailers are facing increasingly difficult times and councils need to take an active and leading role in shaping our town centres, their economies and leisure aspirations.

“These are important buildings and we have been working alongside local businesses to ensure they are brimming with activity again and help contribute to the further development of Newark as a thriving town.”

Given the buildings’ central location there are the opportunities to link up with the town’s other heritage and culture offers – the Castle, the Town Hall Museum and the National Civil War Centre.

Since 2014 the property has been owned by an overseas company and managed by remote agents. While there has been significant recent investment in the

fabric of the buildings, concerns have been raised at the

lack of occupancy of existing units.

(Above) The former Robin Hood Hotel as it stands today.

(Left) Artist impression of the development following completion.

Recently, short-term tenants have been breathing new life into the building, while long-term plans are being considered for its future use.

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk6 7Tel: 01636 650000 @NSDCouncil

Ollerton roundabout

Through working with Nottinghamshire County Council, £18million has been secured for improvements to the Ollerton roundabout alongside various junctions on the A614/A617 corridor. Plans for the final designs and the compulsory purchase orders are now progressing and it is hoped that the roundabout will be started April 2021. The roundabout has experienced congestion for many years which affects the movement of people, freight and commerce in the Sherwood area. The upgrade will also help in terms of implementing the redevelopment of the former Thoresby Colliery.

A1 Overbridge, Fernwood

This estimated £5.2million plan is to increase the capacity of the existing bridge by creating an additional lane towards the northbound carriageway of the A1. The project will be delivered by the district council but paid for by monies collected by the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) – which is a tax on development. This additional capacity will help improve the infrastructure for the additional 3,500 houses and 15 hectares of employment land.

A46 Newark Northern bypass

The dualling of the Newark Northern bypass – completing the missing link by removing a stretch of single carriageway on the corridor between the Humber ports and Tewkesbury in Gloucestershire - has been identified as a key priority for the district council, Midlands

Connect and the Midlands Engine. We are hopeful that by the end of this year, funding will be in place and work will start with an expected completion date between 2025-2027.

Southern Link Road

Part of this is already built but we are looking at work beginning next year with a completion by September 2022. This will unlock 3,150 new homes, a new primary school, country

park, funds toward healthcare provision, two million square feet of employment space and a new local centre. Proposals will include 35 hectares of informal open space and 41 hectares of formal open space and sports pitches.

Routes forward to aid PRoSPERItYThere are a number of major road projects in the district which, collectively, will help unblock congestion, unlock the path to growth and help improve the economy significantly, not just in Newark and Sherwood but also in the East Midlands and nationally. Here we look at their progress….

apprenticeships – a key investment in people

Promoting and supporting businesses

In any workplace the most invaluable investment is in people and the district council is particularly proud of its record on recruiting apprentices.

Such roles present excellent benefits to staff, employers and the economy.

Since 2010, the council has employed more than 60 apprentices at different levels, from level 2 (GCSE level) to level 6 and 7 (bachelor’s and master’s degree) in which 75 per cent have moved on to permanent roles.

Last year alone, it offered nine new apprenticeships in careers including marketing, public protection, human resources, waste management, ICT and housing options.

Assistant ICT business manager Dave Richardson joined the council in November 2018 and is currently undertaking a bachelor’s degree alongside his full-time role.

He said: “My apprenticeship is providing me with on-the-job prospects, real life scenarios and a real view of the bigger picture in an enterprise business environment. As an apprentice in my thirties, I was looking for an opportunity that will provide me with the skills and knowledge in the long term to succeed at the highest level and progress my career.”

Georgia Straw was recruited into the housing options team in April 2018 to support the council’s homelessness service and housing support team which helps to ensure residents in the district remain safe and independent in their own homes.

She said: “Apprenticeships give you an excellent start in your professional career. I am now more certain of my abilities and recognise the steps I need to take to constantly improve my skills.”

Millie Scott-Criddle, who joined the council’s marketing and communications team in October 2018, said: “Since starting my apprenticeship at the council I have gained important life skills and knowledge. Apprenticeships are a great stepping stone for anyone looking to gain a qualification. It allows you to get an insight into a working environment as well as learning and getting paid at the same time.”

Tracey Piper, business manager for human resources and organisational development, said: “We have been involved in offering apprenticeships at Newark and Sherwood District Council since 2009. It has been great to see so many young people develop confidence and skills which in turn has enabled them to secure permanent roles within the council.

“Not only do apprentices provide us with fresh new ideas, they play a vital role in helping the council to continually improve the services we provide to the public.”

More than 1,000 different businesses and 1,000 delegates, including chief executives, senior directors and managers from across the East Midlands attended Expo East 2019 at Newark Showground.

Organised by City X in May, in partnership with Invest Newark and Sherwood - Connecting businesses across the East Midlands, Expo East, the event showcased the work of businesses in the region, helping to make connections and encouraging business across the borders in Nottinghamshire, Lincolnshire and surrounding counties.

FORTHCOMING eveNTS:Future First Careers expo - Wednesday, November 6 - Lady eastwood Centre, Newark Showground.

Bringing together some of the most innovative businesses from across the East Midlands, delivering an interactive and vibrant experience for the young people who attend and is a key date for both schools and exhibitors alike. Last year around 1,000 students from schools within the district visited throughout the day to meet with 70 businesses, education and training providers.

Business Health Check - Thursday, September 5 - Newark Beacon Innovation Centre.

One-to-one 90-minute session with a D2N2 Growth Hub business adviser who will provide the right advice for each individual business, plus access to finance, the latest legislation or practical business support.

Safety - it’s just good business - Thursday, September 19 (9.30am-4.30pm) – Castle House, Newark.

Interactive workshop to help businesses understand the change every business faces due to new legislation, new ways companies are prosecuted and also the new technology available for you and your organisation to mitigate risk.

Dignity at Work - Wednesday, November 20 (10am-3pm) - Newark Beacon Innovation Centre.

Exploring all aspects of workplace bullying and harassment, helping you to recognise and challenge unwanted behaviour. It is open to all job levels and is a great opportunity to bring along your own examples and queries.

For more information and to book a place, please contact susan.nattrass@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk or by telephone on 01636 655277. All events are free to attend.

LOOkING TO THe FuTuReWe know that there are big challenges for our town centres, particularly regarding the changing face of the retail sector.

We will also continue to tackle the issue of vacant land and disused industrial sites and deliver much-needed new homes.

High on the agenda is master-planning for the Sherwood Forest and actions to further develop the tourism and visitor economy.

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk8 9Tel: 01636 650000 @NSDCouncil

Investment for a Cleaner, Safer and Greener districtTHe campaign to make Newark and Sherwood a Cleaner, Safer and Greener place to live work and visit has been hailed a great success.

Among the highlights of the campaign were:

Working in partnership with communities across the district and 30 other organisations, the initiative has encouraged and inspired residents to help improve the quality of life and enhance civic pride.

The work has only just begun but the focus on dealing with frontline issues that impact residents every day has helped re-energise and refocus efforts to improve our streets and green spaces.

It has also helped the council to strengthen its relationship with local communities and build connections with its partners.

• FoursuccessfuldaysofactionintheYorkeDriveandWinthorpe Road area of Newark, the Quadrangle area of Blidworth, Hawtonville area of Newark and Newark town centre. Over the first three days of action, we planted more than 250 shrubs and trees and removed 39.25 tonnes of litter, street sweeping and bulky waste alongside 4.5 tonnes of green waste.

• Workingwiththecommunity,localschoolsandyouthgroups to paint a mural in Hatchett’s underpass and graffiti art at Hawtonville teen hangout, both to tackle anti-social graffiti.

• Recruitingfournewcommunityprotectionofficerswhopatrol the streets with the power to impose fixed penalty notices for environmental crimes.

• 24neworupgradedbinsinstalledandthetrial of dual waste-recycling bins in Southwell.

• Ahouseholdrecyclinginformationcampaignaimed at improving rates of recycling across the district.

• LaunchingthePAWScampaignencouraging responsible dog ownership, including school education sessions and new dog fouling signage across the district.

• RunningasuccessfulnightofactioninNewarkincollaborationwith Nottinghamshire Police and police drug dog Jasper.

The success of the campaign and the feedback from residents in the Resident Survey 2018 demonstrates the value of the work of the Cleaner, Safer, Greener campaign, and as such the work of the campaign has now been embedded into the ongoing work of the Council.

One of the legacies of Cleaner, Safer, and Greener is that the days of action will continue.

Council leader David Lloyd said: “It has been extremely effective to do a focused day of activity in partnership with the community and external organisations. It creates momentum and enthusiasm and leaves lasting community impact.”

A Newark town centre day of action also took place in association with the ‘National High Street Perfect Day’ initiative. It was aimed at promoting the vibrancy of the district’s town centres.

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk10 11Tel: 01636 650000 @NSDCouncil

Jugglers from across the world will be showcasing their talents on the streets of Newark and beyond as part of an international convention in the district this summer.

The European Juggling Convention (EJC), the biggest and most colourful event in the world of performance art and involving a brilliant array of performers, amateurs and street artists, will be at Newark Showground from August 3 to 11.

As part of the festival of spinning, battling and throwing, Newark and Sherwood District Council and Newark Town Council are sponsoring a day of extraordinary entertainment on Sunday, August 4 that will bring the spectacle of the festival into Newark town centre.

The festival includes the Extreme Unicycle Championships (EUC), Western skills including rope lasso lessons and whip workshops, hands-on balloon modelling, aerial and acrobatics of all levels, juggling halls for practice and skills sharing, fire, flow and glow sessions, a youth circus and the special ladybird project for children’s play and cabaret.

Newark is the perfect location to showcase the UK to attendees from across the globe and we are sure that the jugglers will love the history, culture and welcoming atmosphere that Newark has to offer.

“Everyone is welcome to EJC and you don’t have to worry about your age or about your skills as circus does not have boundaries. There will be something suitable for you whether you are a beginner or intermediate or advanced. You can make so many friends there and we encourage everyone to be an active part of it, by practicing, teaching, volunteering and enjoying the shows.”

Week-long festival tickets are now on sale and day tickets and show tickets can be bought on the day. The great thing about an EJC is that once you are on site all the activities and shows are free for you to access. To find out more visit www.ejc2019.org/tickets

What’s on in the district

this summer?THERE’s a fabulous line-up of events

across the district this summer and

in the early autumn. From outdoor

activities including festivals and

music, a European championship on

the streets of Newark, flowers and

plants, gloworms and a vegan camp-

out ensure a rich variety of events

are on offer. Here’s some of the ones

you might want to put in your diary:

You could train to become the ultimate superhero at

Rufford Abbey Country Park Superhero School

by following the training trail where you will be able to win

points by defeating the baddies to earn your very own

super powers! Come dressed for the part, as masks and

capes are a must. Suitable for ages 4 – 11. This runs from

Saturday, July 20 until Sunday, September 1,

from 10.30am to 4pm daily. £2 per trail sheet.

www.parkwoodoutdoors.co.uk/centre/rufford-abbey

You can relax in the summer sun and enjoy a series of brass

band concerts in the beautiful surroundings of Newark

Castle every Sunday in July and August. Treat

yourself to the sound of award-winning and local bands

playing a wide variety of music from film scores to popular

music and traditional band classics. All concerts start from

2pm approximately.

Enjoy an outdoor cinema experience at Rufford

Abbey Country Park on Saturday, July 27 screening

the amazing new movie Mary Poppins Returns. Decades

after her original visit, the magical Mary Poppins returns

to help the Banks siblings and Michael’s children through

a difficult time in their lives. Gates open from 5:30pm and

the film will start at 6:30pm.

Each year Sherwood Forest hosts a week full of fun

and festivities from Monday, August 5 to Sunday

August 11, celebrating the life and legend of our most

famous resident – Robin Hood.

Join in, dress-up and enjoy seven days of re-enactment,

song, dance, storytelling and adventures with the outlaws.

You might even meet the legend himself if you can follow

the clues along the forest trails. www.visitsherwood.co.uk/

things-to-do/robin-hood-festival/

The Plant Hunters Fair return to the Archbishop’s

Palace at Southwell Minster for 2019. It’s just the

right time to pick up some summer flowering plants to

give your garden a boost and the nurseries will have just

the right plant for your garden, with plants of all sizes for a

wide range of garden situations from hot sun to cool shade.

The Plant Hunters Fair will be taking place on Sunday,

August 11. Gates open at 11am and the fair closes at

4pm with refreshments available throughout the day.

The £2 entry donation will be used to support Southwell

Minster’s special projects. www.bramleynewspaper.co.uk

The Gloworm Festival is a brilliant two-day event that

has been created for grown-ups and their little - or not so

little - people. Come and enjoy a welcoming and creative

environment, lose your inhibitions and have some fun. This year’s festival will take place on Saturday, August 17 to Sunday, August 18 at Thoresby Park.

Southwell Music Festival will again be providing a high quality programme of classical music from Wednesday, August 21 to Monday, August 26. This annual event provides an opportunity to enjoy and celebrate the very best classical music, raise the profile of the town and its magnificent medieval Minster.

The UK’s largest vegan Camp-Out is back in Newark and Sherwood for summer 2019! With a variety of music, talks, workshops, yoga and delicious food options there’s something for everyone. The camp-out will be taking place on Friday, August 30 to Sunday, September 1 at Newark Showground. Book now - www.vegancampout.co.uk

Forever Fest is a family friendly afternoon taking place on Saturday, August 31, 4pm to 7:30pm at Newark Castle. Enjoy music, have a bounce about on an inflatable castle, stalls, raffles and many more. Kwoklyn Wan will be doing a cooking demo and book signing for his new cookbook. Feel free to bring your own picnic but please don’t bring alcohol as there will be a bar onsite. All monies raised will go to Bowel Cancer UK. For tickets please email info@helpusgrieve.co.uk . Adults £16, Children £8, Under 4s free.

The world’s first cycling theatre company, The HandleBards, who pedal from venue to venue across the globe will be wheeling in to Newark Castle for Shakespeare’s ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ on Thursday, September 5 at 6.30pm. For more information please visit their website -

www.handlebards.com/tickets/much-ado-about-nothing-newark-castle

As autumn approaches The Bramley Festival will be back with its annual celebration taking place on Saturday, October 19 at Southwell Minster, 10am to 4pm. The festival attracts hundreds of local, national and international visitors to celebrate the origins of the Bramley Apple.

A 1940s Weekend will be hosted at Newark Air Museum on Saturday, October 26 to Sunday, October 27. There will be period costume re-enactors, exhibitors and much more.

Feast of juggling comes to town centre

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk12 13Tel: 01636 650000 @NSDCouncil

tackling ugly graffiti while promoting street artIllegal graffiti is a visual crime, not only making an area look untidy but may encourage further crime and disorder, creating a significant impact on the public and their perception of an area as a wider sign of anti-social behaviour.

Bollards, signs, walls and bridges in Newark and Sherwood have been hit by vandals in recent months but

as well as taking the appropriate enforcement action against culprits, the district council is supporting

a series of community projects to engage with local residents, encourage them to take pride in their local area and reduce further incidents of graffiti.

Anti-social graffiti is costly, both

in terms of removal and enforcing against it. Consequently, the district council recognises the need for prevention in the first instance and has invested in various district-wide projects and initiatives to reduce and hopefully prevent vandalism in the future.

The Hatchet’s Lane underpass, off Lincoln Road in Newark, a previous

hotspot for illegal graffiti, has been given a fresh new look following a four-day project with a local artist and young people. The underpass had been a long-term eyesore and local design studio owner, James Mayle, along with children and young people from Newark’s Bishop Alexander School, the Yorke Drive Youth Group, the Emmaus Trust and Nottinghamshire County Council’s Youth Service have helped transform it into a bright and colourful underwater ocean scene.

Community engagement was fundamental for the success of

the project, the aim of which was to provide a platform for young people to express themselves using art, instilling a sense of ownership, pride and satisfaction, and at the same time transforming an eyesore that was spoiling the local area.

A similar community graffiti project with James took place in March during the district council’s third Cleaner, Safer and Greener campaign ‘day of action’ in Hawtonville, Newark. A youth shelter close to the estate’s community centre – a magnet for anti-social graffiti – was transformed by a group of young people using their own designs with great success.

Such arts projects have proved extremely effective, with more planned, creating a positive form of self-expression for those involved, instilling a sense of pride among the community and acting as a vandalism deterrence.

By way of enforcement, a group of young people responsible for two separate incidents of illegal graffiti in Newark avoided criminal charges by participating in a restorative justice arrangement in May, set up by the district council and Newark Police. The young people responsible were asked and agreed to remove either their own graffiti, or graffiti in a specific nearby spot if that was not possible.

Restorative justice is designed to provide an opportunity for the police to deal with appropriate low level offences without going through the formal sanctions that are available in the criminal justice system, which could result in a young person having a criminal record for what could be a momentary lapse of judgement.

Such arrangements have proved very effective, as they encourage offenders

to take ownership and do something positive to fit back into their community as well as having an effect on other offenders when they see the work the young people have had to do to put right their wrongs.

Walls, bridges, post boxes and road bollards in dozens of locations have been defaced by spray paint used to scrawl the letters “UDC” and “candy shop” and police and council

officers have launched an appeal for information to try and trace the culprits.

Anyone with information that could identify the culprits of illegal graffiti should phone 101 or report to Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 anonymously.

Before After

Working towards a greener agendaThe green agenda and protecting and improving the environment are at the heart of council policies across all its services.

This includes our approach to the way we manage our operations, buildings and assets and what we expect from others.

It also includes issues such as ensuring sustainable developments, reducing or mitigating environmental impacts, improving environmental and construction performance, preventing pollution, reducing and recycling waste, increasing sustainable energy and promoting sustainable transport.

Our Amended Core Strategy adopted in March this year accepts that climate change presents probably the biggest challenge to the delivery of sustainable development. However it also identifies

that through supporting the move to a low-carbon economy and by securing low-carbon living, the climatic impact of new development can be reduced.

This sits alongside the council’s plans for the continuing growth of Newark and district. Key to these plans is to secure significantly improved open space as part of schemes at Bowbridge Road and Kelham Road and other new developments. There has been a focus on a number of positive projects for the town and new facilities to encourage sport and leisure, including:

• NewarkSports&FitnessCentre–anew facility that has been open for three years.

• YMCACommunityandActivityVillage–located on Bowbridge Road, next to the Newark Sports & Fitness Centre, has an athletics track and 3G pitches. A community and activity building, tennis courts, multi-use games area, netball

and basketball provision, cycle track and Skate Park are also planned. (See Pages 2 and 3).

• NewarkR&MCricketClubexpansion– the new cricket pitch which has been constructed on a site in council ownership next to the club’s existing Kelham Road ground. (See Pages 2 and 3).

• LandSouthofNewark–Middlebeck,when completed, will deliver 74 hectares of additional open space, including playing pitches. This will serve residents of the new communities and will be available for all residents of the town to enjoy.

• LandEastofNewark–thissite,tothe south of Beacon Hill, must include significant open space as part of the new development including a country park of between 15 and 20 hectares on the southern slopes of Beacon Hill.

Planting for the futureThe council also has a leading role in the protection and management of the trees, notwithstanding the fact that the district is world-famous for Sherwood Forest.

Trees may be lost, possibly as part of development proposals or through managing land and woodland. The council recently responded to the Government’s

recent consultation on ‘Protecting and Enhancing England’s Trees and Woodlands’ and will monitor and report on overall tree loss and replacements as a result of this consultation.

Over the last 18 months we have planted 18 large trees and 770 whips in our parks and open spaces and we will be looking to plant more. Species include oak, rowan,

beech, silver birch, hawthorn and field maple. The council’s policy is to only remove our trees where they are either dead, diseased or dying and are thus a potential safety hazard to users of parks and open spaces or causing significant problems to neighbouring properties, for example where there are clear links with subsidence.

Before

TRANSFORMATIONWorking to spruce up the teen shelter in Hawtonville and turn it into a piece of street art.

Before Before

After

After After

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk14 15Tel: 01636 650000 @NSDCouncil

Consultation on council house managementNewark and Sherwood District Council is set to bring management of council houses back into the council’s control.

Newark and Sherwood Homes was set up by the council 15 years ago in order to secure national funding to improve council houses. Up and down the country, local authorities have been closing their arms-length housing companies for a number of reasons including to make savings to reinvest in tenants’ services.

Council Chief Executive John Robinson said: “Newark and Sherwood Homes is a high performing housing management company that has led an impressive programme of improvements to council houses. However, the original rationale for having a separate housing management company no longer applies and therefore the policy and finance committee has decided ‘in principle’ to consult with tenants on ending the company and bringing the management of council housing back into the council.

“Following a review undertaken by an independent adviser, it is expected that this change would save at least £1million per year; after allowing for inflation this means additional available resources, estimated at £40m over the next 30 years, which will be re-invested in new council homes and frontline services, to improve the lives and homes of tenants.

“It is of paramount importance to emphasise that the council and company will continue to work together in the best interests of tenants.”

Newark and Sherwood Homes Chief Executive Rebecca Rance said: “Our staff remain dedicated to delivering the best possible services to tenants and customers and are available to respond to any questions or concerns tenants, customers or their family or representatives may have.”

The period of consultation is currently taking place with tenants and leaseholders and will finish on August 19. Six drop-in sessions have been arranged across the district as part of the consultation exercise. These sessions will be facilitated by Open Communities. Tenants and leaseholders will be encouraged to attend one of these sessions to find out more about the council’s proposal to directly manage housing services.

Thursday, July 25

10.30am to 12.30pm The Green Community Centre, Bilsthorpe

2pm to 5pmCambridge Close Community Centre, Rainworth

Friday, July 26

4pm to 7pmThe Bridge Community Centre, Newark

Tuesday, July 30

10am to 12pmCleveland Square Community Centre, Newark

Tuesday, July 30

4pm to 7pmCastle House, Newark

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/housing/housingmanagementreview

Fake news, family fun and a world turned upside downThere are huge changes afoot at the National Civil War Centre in Newark this summer as the museum is turned upside down for two exciting new exhibitions.

Think ‘Fake News’ is a recent phenomenon? Then discover the extraordinary history of this centuries-old tradition of mischievous social comment and political propaganda, opening on Friday, July 26. Learn how the chaos and confusion of the Civil War, paired with improved literacy rates and advances in printing, proved fertile ground for misleading media and uncover the 17th century’s own versions of social media. Plus there’s the chance to see if you’d make it in the printing profession.

The second exhibition to open takes its title from the extraordinary transformation triggered by the civil war. The World Turned Upside Down explores the 17th century’s seismic shifts in religion, science, culture and politics. From Friday, September 6 you’ll be able to find out just what happened to turn the world from right way up to upside down; examine what it would have been like to plunge into the mayhem of war and emerge into an

unfamiliar landscape, and uncover how the pyramid of power shifted from the God-chosen king on top to Charles’ head on the ground. You’ll even get the chance to sign his death warrant!

Exhibition curator Glyn Hughes has been working on The World Turned Upside Down for more than four years, his inspiration coming from a desire to change the focus of what people think about the Civil War. He says: “People obviously associate the Civil War with battle but what interests me most is the melting pot of ideas; Milton talking about divorce for both men and women, the Levellers discussing democracy, the Putney Debates with ‘one man, one vote’... these ideas have helped shape the UK today and they’re what I want to highlight in this new exhibition.”

Another feature at the centre is the Topsy Turvy Summer, running until Tuesday, September 3, where visitors can enjoy some hilarious performances and fun craft activities from the 17th century.

Meet some of the leaders of the period’s strange and crazy sects. John Robins, King of the Ranters, will tell you how he literally believed he was God (and then changed his mind), sort of raised the dead, tried to re-conquer Jerusalem and ate a lot of raw potato while Lodowick Muggleton, King of the Curse, will talk about his ridiculously named followers, the Muggletonians, and how he liked nothing better than to curse anyone who didn’t agree with him

(which was everyone). You can also meet Posh Prophetess, Lady Eleanor Davies, whose sought-after psychic readings always seemed to predict a horrible death!

Children will love getting hands-on with brilliant craft sessions which offer the chance to make and take home some 17th century-inspired creations. Become a secret supporter of the King by hiding secret messages in handmade jewellery, create your own life mask like Oliver Cromwell and make a magical witch bottle to protect yourself from harm.

experience all this for yourself at the National Civil War Centre, Appletongate, Newark. For more information visit www.nationalcivilwarcentre.com. Family admission during the holidays is just £3.20 per child and £6.40 per adult. visit www.

nationalcivilwarcentre.com or call 01636

655765 for more information.

A scheme to transform the Yorke Drive area of Newark has been conditionally approved by the district council’s planning committee.

The council is now exploring options to deliver the regeneration proposals which include hundreds of new homes, better sport and play facilities and a new community pavilion.

The plans follow extensive consultation with local residents and stakeholders with the focus on making the area a

safer and better place to live. Everyone who lives, works or is involved in some way with the Yorke Drive estate has had the opportunity to get involved and this will continue throughout the proposed regeneration scheme.

These plans, designed in conjunction with the estate’s Residents Panel, set out a vision to create new homes, enhance leisure facilities for the whole community and enable improvements to the existing estate.

It is anticipated that the earliest the programme will start is 2020 and will take approximately eight years to complete.

The council has also introduced a ‘Resident Offer’, which gives the opportunity for council tenants and home-owners who wish to remain on Yorke Drive to do so, along with providing a generous package of financial compensation and practical support to help residents move.

The broad vision of the scheme includes:

• Undertakingselectivedemolitionand redevelopment of parts of the existing Yorke Drive estate

• Buildingupto320new,mixedtenurehomes, to modern space standards, for rent and sale

• Raisingmoneyfornewrentedhomesand improvements to the whole estate

• Asafe,multi-functionalparkproviding improved sports and leisure facilities for all

• Improvingroadaccessandtheroadnetwork in the area

• Makingthewholeareaabetterandsafer place to live

• Anewfrontageandnewaccesstocreate a new “front door” to the estate on Lincoln Road.

As part of the phased approach to the development, replacement properties for those impacted by demolition and enhancement of public and sports facilities are intended to be delivered in Phase 1.

The application can be viewed online at www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/housing/yorkedrivefocus

Proposals to transform estate

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk16 17Tel: 01636 650000 @NSDCouncil

We had a magnificent response to our district-wide residents’ survey, with approximately one in 10 of the population taking time out to answer the 17 questions that were posed about life in Newark and Sherwood. The full report on the residents’ survey is available on the council’s website.

Residents expressed views about many of the themes that are featured in this edition of the Voice: leisure, business, growth and regeneration, and the environment. Responses showed:

• 50% of respondents are satisfied or very satisfied with the leisure and sports facilities in their local area

• 67% of respondents are satisfied or very satisfied with the parks and green open spaces in their local area

• 83% of respondents are satisfied or very satisfied with their household waste and recycling collection service

• 90% of respondents said it was important or very important to them to be able to live in a sustainable and environmentally aware way

• Inthesurvey,residentswereasked to select the five services they thought were the most important from a list of 15. These included refuse collection and recycling and keeping the streets and public areas clean and tidy, among other priorities.

In addition, the survey results showed that:

• 79% of survey respondents are satisfied or very satisfied with their local area as a place to live.

Information about what our residents consider to be the key priorities and what life is like in the district has been used to devise Newark and Sherwood’s Community Plan. The plan’s objectives capture what the council intends to achieve over the next four years to improve residents’ quality of life and to focus on the things that matter most to those who live and work here.

District council leader Councillor David Lloyd said: “Between October and December, the council carried out a major consultation exercise which generated more than 11,000 responses from the public.

“By using this information to inform our new Community Plan we can be confident we are working on the things that matter most to local people and businesses. Our new plan is a combination of ensuring that the everyday essentials are in place – like feeling safe and having somewhere decent to live – alongside tackling strategic challenges that include the decline in town centres and national rise in homelessness.

“Over the next four years, we’ll be investing in enhanced CCTV provision; helping to fund the much-needed Southern Link Road; supporting improved leisure facilities at Southwell and Ollerton; funding flood mitigation works at Lowdham and Southwell and delivering improvements to Newark and our other town centres.”

The survey also included the option for comment and we’ll look to responding via our website to the themes identified from more than 4,500 comments that we received, as well as the possibility of signing up to a newly formed Resident Panel to share views

and to help shape the future of the district. The panel is open to any resident over the age of 18 with full details of how to join online.

We look forward to staying in touch. To contact us, please email organisational.development@nsdc.info

Consultation, communication, community – your views There’s sure to be something for

everyone at Newark’s Palace Theatre over the next few months with its upcoming programme packed with perfect nights out!

This summer, families won’t want to miss the chance to see bestselling children’s book Aliens Love Underpants brought to life on stage. The hilarious show, at the Palace on Monday 29th and Tuesday 30th July, is bursting with stunning effects, madcap action, original music and, of course, loads of aliens.

The fun continues into autumn with more great shows for older children like a family-friendly, jazz-age adaptation of Othello on Thursday, October 3 and Michael Morpurgo’s I Believe In Unicorns, a wonderful intimate show all about the magic of stories, on Sunday, October 27.

There’s plenty of fun for adults too as the next few months boast a brilliant

comedy programme. After a 15-year break, Godfather of modern stand-up Ben Elton is finally touring again; he’ll be calling at the Palace with an unmissable Work In Progress date on Thursday, September 19. The fantastic Sindhu Vee is sure to have audiences in stitches at her Palace debut on Friday, September 20 while returning favourite Ed Byrne guarantees a great night out on Thursday, October 17.

It’s not just comedy stars who’ll be gracing Newark’s stage, a host of famous names are making their way to the town this autumn from famous poet Benjamin Zephaniah on Friday, October 4 to politician and bestselling author Alan Johnson on Friday, November 1. Anyone who loves their TV documentaries is sure to enjoy seeing Coast’s Neil Oliver present the fascinating Story of the British Isles

in 100 Places on Saturday, November 2 and hearing from fascinating wildlife photographer Doug Allan (above) who talks about his experiences working on series like Blue Planet on Thursday, November 14.

For more information and to book tickets, visit www.palacenewark.com or call the box office team on 01636 655755.

Reduce crime and antisocial behaviour

Increase use of visitor attractions

Accelerate supply of new homes

Protect & enhance natural environment

Improve cleanliness and appearance

Community engagement

Improve health and wellbeing

Improve transport infrastructure

Bags on offer at the Palace

Hidden History walking toursNewark has a rich and varied history dating back to a charter of 664. If we think about Newark today, we think about the iconic Newark Castle which was originally a Saxon fortified manor house and over time has developed its own historical tale. We think about Newark’s important role during the National Civil War in which it was besieged on three occasions. But Newark’s history includes so much more than we might first realise.

Did you know that the Registry Office once started life as a library where men and women were kept apart in separate reading rooms and where the public were not trusted to pick out their own books from the shelves?

Did you know that the Town Hall used to be a makeshift gaol and that the cells were in use until 1941 holding some infamous criminals with their own interesting histories?

And did you know that in 1962, the driver of an Austin Mini attempted to drive along Chain Lane and got his car stuck?

The National Civil War Centre have unearthed so many wonderfully intriguing stories of the town that are now to be shared with you during two different Hidden History Walking tours of Newark.

The first tour is crammed full of intriguing stories and sites of Roman, Medieval and Georgian and Victorian Newark. The second tour offers a fascinating insight into the National Civil War and Newark’s importance as a key Royalist stronghold.

The Hidden History Walking Tours are held every Saturday from 11am to 12.15pm and depart from the National Civil War Centre, Appleton Gate, Newark NG24 1JY. The two walking tours alternate weekly.

Tours are included in your entrance fee to the NCWC or are charged at £5 per person. For further information, please visit www.nationalcivilwarcentre.com/tours or call 01636 655755.

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk18 19Tel: 01636 650000 @NSDCouncil

Your new council -

Arnold, Kathleen62 Aberconway StreetBlidworthNG21 0RG01623 43947207984 118318kathleen.arnold@nsdc.info

Dobson, MaureenThe CottageCottage LaneCollingham NG23 7LJ01636 892267maureen.dobson@ nsdc.info

David Lloyd

Rita Crowe John RobinsonRita Crowe Matthew FinchRoger Blaney Sanjiv KohliRob Crowe Karen WhitePenny Rainbow Matt Lamb

Keith Girling

Roger Jackson

Dawn, Gill18 Beaumont WalkStrawberry Hill LaneNewarkNG24 4DD07910 899613

Brooks, Betty39 Russell AvenueBaldertonNottsNG24 3BT01636 684717betty.brooks@nsdc.info

Jackson, RogerHolme FarmGonalstonNG14 7JA07866 494731roger.jackson@nsdc.info

Hurst, Lydia63 Macauley DriveBaldertonNG24 3QJ07855 544615lydia.hurst@nsdc.info

Cope, Max15 Bailey RoadNewarkNottsNG24 4BN01636 687582max.cope@nsdc.info

Mitchell, Neal3 Park RowWhinney LaneNew OllertonNewark NG22 9WD07983 565647neal.mitchell@nsdc.info

Walker, IvorHome ViewElston LaneElston NG23 5PB07817 338891ivor.walker@nsdc.info

Mison, Neill1 Carnell LaneFernwoodNewarkNG24 3FS07824 770065neill.mison@nsdc.info

Smith, Tom283 Southwell Road EastRainworthNG21 0BL07791 074627tom.smith@nsdc.info

Blaney, RogerMorton HallMiddle LaneMorton NG25 0UY01636 83074307711 693880roger.blaney@nsdc.info

Girling, Keith11 Vernon AvenueNewarkNG24 1PG07973 305598keith.girling@nsdc.info

Brown, Irene57 Yorke DriveNewarkNG24 2HH01636 708984

Laughton, Brucec/o Castle HouseGreat North RoadNewarkNG24 1BY07769 726883bruce.laughton@nsdc.info

Crowe, Rob38 Winchelsea AvenueNewarkNottsNG24 4AD01636 702055rob.crowe@nsdc.info

Peacock, Paul80 Mansfield RoadEdwinstoweNG21 9PD07956 370984paul.peacock@nsdc.info

Walker, Keith1 Fisher CloseCollinghamNG23 7SL01636 892586keith.walker@nsdc.info

Brailsford, Louis Alex68 Westbrook DriveRainworthMansfieldNG21 0FHlouis.brailsford@nsdc.info

Goff, Laurence14 The OsiersNewarkNG24 4TP01636 681878laurence.goff@nsdc.info

Brown, Michael11 Gaitskill CrescentEdwinstoweMansfield NG21 9LF07568 35571407852 759843michael.brown@nsdc.info

Lee, Johno18 Yarnsworth RoadMiddlebeckNewarkNG24 3WL07709 577865johno.lee@nsdc.info

Crowe, Rita38 Winchelsea AvenueNewarkNottsNG24 4AD01636 702055rita.crowe@nsdc.info

Rainbow, PennyAscot House4 The CombesSouthwellNG25 0DQ07793 916800penny.rainbow@nsdc.info

Wendels, TimothyOak Tree HouseLower Kirklington RoadSouthwell NG25 0DZ07866 733605tim.wendels@nsdc.info

Brazier, Lee48 Main RoadBoughtonNewarkNG22 9JD07599 027752lee.brazier@nsdc.info

Harris, Peter14 Hillside DriveSouthwellNG25 0JZ01636 816000peter.harris@nsdc.info

Carlton, Scott152 Fourth AvenueEdwinstoweNG21 9NS07500 804057scott.carlton@nsdc.info

Lloyd, David1 The CloseBeacon Hill RoadNewarkNG24 1NR07929 762980david.lloyd@nsdc.info

Cumberlidge, Donnac/o Castle HouseGreat North RoadNewarkdonna.cumberlidge@nsdc.info

Saddington, SueSpringfieldMain StreetNorth MuskhamNG23 6EZ01636 704550susan.saddington@ nsdc.info

White, Ronnie74 Grove StreetNew BaldertonNG24 3AZ07941 566709ronnie.white@nsdc.info

Brock, MalcolmMistletoe HouseSouthwell RoadNG22 8NQ01636 81372607443 428515malcolm.brock@nsdc.info

Holloway, Rhona111 Kirkington RoadBilsthorpeNewarkNG22 8SQ07973 941457rhona.holloway@nsdc.info

Clarke-Smith, Brendan23 Mill LaneEdwinstoweNG21 9QY07597 463444brendan.clarke-smith@nsdc.info

Michael, SylviaKnapthorpe GrangeHockerton RoadCauntonNG23 6AZ01636 636396sylvia.michael@nsdc.info

Dales, Linda2 Redmay CornerSouth ScarleNG23 7JH07972 300346linda.dales@nsdc.info

Skinner, Mathew41 Syerston WayNewarkNG24 2SU07733 296331mathew.skinner@nsdc.info

Woodhead, Yvonne3 Park AvenueBlidworthNG21 0SW01623 796751yvonne.woodhead@nsdc.info

Rainworth South & Blidworth

Collingham

Policy & Finance/Leader of the council

Licensing Committee Chief ExecutiveGeneral Purposes

CommitteeDirector - Communites

& EnvironmentPlanning CommitteeDirector - Resources/

Deputy Chief ExecutiveChairman

of the councilDirector - Governance &

Organisational DevelopmentVice Chairman of the council

Director - Growth & Regeneration

Committee Chairmen

Senior Leadership

Team

Economic Development Committee/Deputy Leader

of the council

Sylvia Michael

Audit & Accounts Committee

Leisure & Environment Committee

Timothy Wendels

Home & Communities Committee

Bridge

Balderton North& Coddington

Dover BeckBalderton South

Devon

Ollerton

Farndon & Fernwood

Farndon & Fernwood

Rainworth North & Rufford

Rainworth North & Rufford

Devon

Edwinstowe & Clipstone

Balderton North & Coddington

Beacon

Southwell

Lowdham

Edwinstowe & Clipstone

Beacon

Ollerton

Muskham

Balderton South

Ollerton

Southwell

Southwell

Bilsthorpe

Boughton

Sutton-on-Trent

Collingham

Beacon

Rainworth South & Blidworth

Trent

Castle

Bridge

Farnsfield

Devon

Edwinstowe & Clipstone

Farndon & Fernwood

Newark and Sherwood District Council is run by 39 councillors who were elected by the community in the local elections held in May this year. Members

are responsible for making decisions on behalf of the local community about local services and budgets, including the level of district council tax. Each councillor represents an area within the district – known as a ward - and serves for a period of four years. Their work includes helping local people, supporting local organisations, campaigning on local issues, and developing links with the community. Councillors meet and elect individual councillors from among their number to fulfil particular responsibilities.

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk20 Tel: 01636 650000

Our new four-strong Community Protection officer team is now patrolling Newark and Sherwood with your safety and safeguarding the environment top of their agenda.

The officers have the power to issue enforcement notices against yobs, litter louts and irresponsible dog owners and other council staff, who work in waste management, public protection and parks, are also authorised to issue fixed penalty notices against offenders.

The community protection officers have a specific remit to crack down on groups and individuals who spoil the district while they are also working with the community to encourage a responsible approach to looking after the environment.

The new team is a key part of the council’s Cleaner, Safer and Greener initiative which is taking a tougher stance on anti-social behaviour and issues such as littering, graffiti, fly-tipping, dog fouling and dog control. Creating and maintaining safer communities is the main focus and more environmental health and licensing officers will be able to take action on offences relating to public health including food safety, animal welfare and anti-social behaviour.

Fixed penalty notices range from £75 for dog control offences to £150 for littering. Convicted fly-tippers face fines up to £50,000 or a custodial sentence.

Park rangers and grounds staff at Newark’s Sconce and Devon Park and Clipstone’s Vicar Water Park are now able to take action on breaches of Public Space Protection Orders (PSPOs) including issuing fixed penalty notices.

PSPOs are in place in Sconce and Devon Park, Newark Castle Grounds and Vicar Water Park, Clipstone, to help tackle issues relating to dog behaviour, including dog fouling and dog control. A breach of a PSPO is a criminal offence and can result in a fixed penalty notice being issued.

The costs and dangers of fly-tipping are well documented and waste management inspectors and managers now have more powers to investigate, enforce and issue fixed penalty notices for offences relating to the unlawful dumping of waste.

Since the Cleaner, Safer and Greener initiative was launched in July last year, the council has issued a combined total of 48 enforcement notices and the new staff powers and the recruitment of the new community protection officers demonstrates a greater emphasis on enforcement action.

District council leader David Lloyd said: “We are continually working to make the district a better place to live, work

and visit and staff, working alongside our new community protection officers, will be making greater use of powers to penalise those who flout the law in a number of areas.

“They will be our eyes and ears in helping to take the necessary and appropriate steps to deal with those intent on spoiling and disrespecting our environment.”

Meet the team helping to keep you safe

See also pages 8 & 9.

From left:Andrew Weaver, Lauren Astle, Councillor David Lloyd, Richard Lloyd & Alfie Podlaszewski