WINTER 2014

www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonnews

The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council

Big plans, bright future

THEBOROUGHREMEMBERS

PAGE 3

CONTENTS

Stockton 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) 526098 or email snews@stockton.gov.uk

Stockton News aims to provide news and information about the Council, its partner organisations and 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 News is produced by Stockton Council’s Communications Team and designed by Twentyseven Design. Pictures courtesy of Dave Charnley, Peter Mernagh, Gary Walsh, Gilbert Johnston, Rebecca Hues, Doug Moody, Bosh Creative, Evening Gazette, Dave Jamieson, Dawn McNamara and others.

There is an audio version of Stockton News. Call (01642) 526098 to order a copy or email snews@stockton.gov.uk

CONTENTSBIG NEWS FOR STOCKTON-ON-TEES

News Round Up 4

BIG PLANS FOR THE HEALTH OF OUR PEOPLE

Health and Wellbeing 26

BIG PLANS FOR AN OUTSTANDING BOROUGH

Economic Regeneration and Transport 10

BIG PLANS FOR YOUR AREA

Ward Surgeries in Your Area 41

BIG PLANS FOR THE FUTURE

What’s On 44

BIG PLANS FOR THE CARE WE PROVIDE

Adults Services 28

BIG PLANS FOR OUR PLACES AND OPEN SPACES

Environment and Housing 30

AMBITIOUS, EFFECTIVE AND PROUD TO SERVE

Your Council 33

BIG PLANS FOR GREAT EXPERIENCES

Arts, Culture and Leisure 6

BIG PLANS FOR KEEPING OUR COMMUNITIES SAFE

Community Safety 22

BIG PLANS FOR HELPING OUR COMMUNITIES PROSPER

Strong Communities 36

BIG PLANS FOR THE YOUNG PEOPLE OF OUR BOROUGH

Children and Young People 20

WINTER 2014

www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonnews

The community magazine of Stockton Borough Council

Big plans, bright future

THEBOROUGHREMEMBERS

Investing in Stockton’s growth 16 Stockton Sparkles 24 38Coming together to

remember

Christmas bin collections 2014Shown below are details of when your refuse and recycling will be collected over the Christmas and New Year period. Please put your wheeled bins, recycling boxes and bags out before 7am on the morning of collection and remove them as soon as you can once they have been emptied. Please be considerate and do not place them in a way that will cause obstruction to other people.

Normal collection date Revised collection dateWednesday 24 December (Christmas Eve) Normal collectionsThursday 25 December (Christmas Day) Saturday 27 DecemberFriday 26 December Monday 29 DecemberTuesday 30 December Normal collectionsWednesday 31 December (New Year’s Eve) Normal collectionsThursday 1 January (New Year’s Day) Friday 2 JanuaryFriday 2 January Saturday 3 JanuaryTuesday 6 January Normal collections resume

For further details visit www.stockton.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling

Christmas and New Year opening timesFor full details of Christmas and New Year opening times for council buildings visit www.stockton.gov.uk/festivehours and for leisure venues visit www.teesactive.co.uk

The telephone contact centre will be open as follows:

Wednesday 24 December, 8am-4pmThursday 25 December and Friday 26 December, closedSaturday 27 December, 9.30am-12.30pm Monday 29 December, 8am-6pmTuesday 30 December, 8am-6pmWednesday 31 December, 8am-4pmThursday 1 January, closed

Care For Your Area 01642 391959Taxation 01642 397108Benefits 01642 393829

Customer service centres in Stockton Central Library and Thornaby Library will be available as follows:

Wednesday 24 December, 10.00am-1pmThursday 25 December and Friday 26 December, closedSaturday 27 December, 9.30am-12.30pm Monday 29 December, 8.30am-5pm*Tuesday 30 December, 8.30am-5pm*Wednesday 31 December, 10am-1pmThursday 1 January, closed

* cash offices close 4pm

Emergency services:

The adult or children’s duty team: 01642 527764 (out of hours 0870 240 2994)

Tristar Homes emergency repairs: 0300 111 1000

Useful Christmas dates

Real Christmas tree collectionsChristmas trees will be collected on your normal collection day the week commencing 5 January. Please leave your tree next to your wheeled bin on your normal collection day and it will be collected as refuse. If you want to recycle your tree please take it to the Household Waste and Recycling Centre at Haverton Hill in Billingham.

We’re ready for winter!With winter just around the corner we’re prepared and ready to go.

We have topped up our stockpile of salt and our gritting fleet is checked and ready for action!

Stockton Council maintains more than 300 salt bins around the Borough – most are in areas not covered by our gritting routes – for residents to salt the roads and footpaths.

Gritting routes, grit bin locations and severe weather warning notifications can be found at www.stockton.gov.uk/gritting

NEWS ROUND UPNEWS ROUND UP

PAGE 5PAGE 4

WELCOME TO THIS WINTER EDITION OF STOCKTON NEWS.As always it’s been a busy time in the Borough and there’s lots of news to bring you since our last edition in July.

Whilst economic conditions are still challenging and the effect of welfare reforms and cuts in public funding are continuing to have an effect, it is good to see so much growth, investment and regeneration in the Borough. Developments at Northshore continue to go well, with the steelwork for the new Innovation Centre rising from the ground. Many of our businesses continue to grow and you can read a summary of the work of Tees Valley Unlimited on page 19, which shows a successful year of supporting growth and investment in the Borough.

I’m also delighted that we are able to report great progress across a number of major Council investments in the Borough. The £14 million investment in new street lighting, the £9 million investment in repairing potholes and pavements, the massive investment in services and roads in the South of the Borough and the transformation of Stockton and Billingham Town Centres will all make the Borough a better place to live and work at the same time as creating and supporting jobs. The work in Stockton Town Centre is now entering its final phase and we’re looking forward to celebrating Christmas in the Town at our Stockton Sparkles festival.

I’m also pleased to report that the Council has again been recognised for its work at the national Association of Public Service Excellence awards.

As always, there have been many great events over the past few months – on page 7 you can look back at some of the highlights. On page 39 you can also read about some of the very special and moving events which took place in August when people got together across the Borough to mark the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War.

And finally I’d like to thank you for your patience during the Newport Bridge work. We understand the frustration the bridge’s closure has caused but this essential work must be tackled and now, with revised plans in place, the bridge has at last re-opened to traffic.

On behalf of Stockton Council my very best wishes for Christmas and 2015.

Neil SchneiderChief Executive, Stockton Borough Council

Care Home hits gold standard!

Church View in Stockton has been named the first ever “Care Home of the Year” by the National Gold Standards Framework (GSF) Centre.

The 47-bed home received the accolade in recognition of its commitment to outstanding end of life care.

Agency nurses praised the “compassionate and dignified care” and told the assessors that Church View was the only home to which they would consider sending their relatives.

In their report, the assessors said: “This is the residents’ home in the truest sense of the word – they and their families are consulted on almost everything.”

Changes to vehicle taxSome changes to how you tax your vehicle came into force on October 1.

When you buy a vehicle, the vehicle tax will no longer be transferred with the vehicle. You will need to get new vehicle tax before you can use the vehicle. In addition, you no longer need to display a paper tax disc on a vehicle.

For more information visit www.gov.uk/dvla/nomoretaxdisc

Getting work under way are (from left to right): Head of Regeneration and Economic Development for Stockton Council, Richard Poundford, Area Manager for the HCA, Marie Kiddell, Senior Development Surveyor for Muse Developments, Simon Dew and Laura Woods, Director of Academic Enterprise, Teesside University.

Preston Park welcomes Royal VisitorHis Royal Highness, The Duke of Kent, paid a visit to Stockton to officially open the restored walled kitchen garden at Preston Park Museum and Grounds last month.

He unveiled a plaque to mark the opening of the Victorian garden, which has been lovingly brought back to life by Stockton Council and an army of volunteers.

During his visit, His Royal Highness also named one of two boats recently purchased by Tees Rowing Club (TRC) with funding from Stockton Council and sports lottery money. The boat

was named ‘Duke of Kent 150’ in recognition of the club celebrating its 150th anniversary year.

The other boat has recently been named after Penny and Derek Copeland - parents of London 2012 Olympic gold medallist and TRC member, Kat Copeland. His Royal Highness met and congratulated Mr and Mrs Copeland during his visit.

For more information about Preston Park and all it has to offer, visit www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk

HRH The Duke of Kent is presented with a gift by Preston Park volunteer, David Collins (right) watched by Stockton Council’s Head of Culture and Leisure, Reuben Kench

Under 10s must be accompaniedFrom January, children under the age of ten must be accompanied by an adult when they visit facilities within Stockton Council buildings, including those operated by Tees Active. This includes Billingham Forum, Splash and Thornaby Pavilion.

The new guidelines have been designed by Stockton’s Local Safeguarding Children’s Board. To find out more about Tees Active facilities visit www.teesactive.co.uk or for other Council facilities visit www.stockton.gov.uk/artscultureandleisure

Church View staff receive their award

Young Tees Valley voices star in charity singleYoung singers from across the Tees Valley are starring alongside more than 25 celebrities in this year’s Children in Need single.Around 30 members of the Tees Valley Youth Choir have recorded a version of the Beach Boys’ ‘God Only Knows’ alongside world-class artists including Brian Wilson, Kylie Minogue, Stevie Wonder, Sir Elton John and Emeli Sandé.The single is available to buy in shops across the country or to download – to watch the video visit www.bbc.co.uk/music

Innovation Centre reaches for the sky!Work only got under way in September but the steelwork for the specialist Innovation Centre is already rising at Northshore on the banks of the River Tees.The three-storey, 36,000 sq ft building will provide flexible incubator space for small and medium size enterprises in the digital, scientific and creative sectors.

All companies based there will be able to access Teesside University’s wide range of business services. The Innovation Centre is a partnership project between Muse, Stockton Council, Teesside University and the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

It’s been another year of fantastic events in Stockton – and we’re getting ready to do it all again in 2015! From sports weekends to street theatre, family days out to fireworks displays, there’ll be something for everyone. Here’s a look back at the best of 2014 to whet your appetite. To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

1. Duathlon: Hundreds of competitors took part in the annual Stockton Duathlon Festival which challenged participants to run and cycle their way across Stockton. The Duathlon will return in 2015 so if you fancy the challenge next year visit www.stockton.gov.uk/duathlon

2. Fire Engine and Vintage Vehicle Show: Visitors stepped back in time at Preston Park for one of the North’s major rallies of classic and restored cars and amazing monster truck stunt displays.

3. Rat Race: Adventurous ‘River Rats’ kayaked, walked, ran and swam their way around the challenging 10k course before daring to walk the plank off the replica of Captain Cook’s HM Bark Endeavour.

4. Cycling Festival: Elite cyclists and amateur riders raced through Stockton Town Centre back in July. This year saw the addition of the StreetVelodrome for the very first time with Olympic medallists joining the fun.

5. SIRF: The 27th Stockton International Riverside Festival was brought to a spectacular close with a riotous musical performance of Les Tambours de la Muerte, inspired by the colourful and macabre festivities of Mexico’s ‘Day of the Dead’.

6. Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance: 2014 marked the 50th anniversary of this colourful music and dance festival, celebrating in style with a whole host of exhibitions, parades and performances from across the globe.

7. Golf Week: Golfers had the chance to compete on some of the Borough’s finest courses at Eaglescliffe, Wynyard, Billingham and Teesside with some top prizes up for grabs.

8. Stockton Calling: Eight top venues and more than 60 artists meant visitors to Stockton Town Centre were spoilt for choice at the all-day Stockton Calling music festival.

9. Festival of Light and Colour: Stockton’s colourful, lively event told the story of Diwali through sound and light with drum

and fire displays, music, food and dance – all influenced by Indian culture.

10. Summer Show: This popular family event returned to Preston Park where visitors enjoyed a wealth of stalls, arena and side shows, bird of prey displays and even medieval jousting from the ‘Devil’s Horsemen’!

11. Stockton’s annual fireworks: The crowds gathered on Stockton’s Riverside to watch a dazzling display of fireworks light up the night sky.

Here’s to an event-filled 2015!1

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ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

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ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISUREARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

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Stockton could become home to an exciting new attraction with the potential to draw thousands of fun seekers.The Council’s latest innovative “invest-to-save” proposal could see a four-storey high ropes course constructed next to Stockton’s Olympic-standard White Water Course.

Run by Tees Active, the 18 metres high Sky Trail would be the highest in the UK and one of the tallest structures on the horizon.It is estimated it would generate a projected surplus of at least £100,000 per year whilst also significantly increasing visitor numbers to the Borough.Stockton Council’s Head of Culture and Leisure, Reuben Kench, said: “High ropes facilities in other parts of the

country are very successful and have brought a significant increase in footfall. A similar facility in Stockton could reap the same benefits.”The detail of the proposal is currently under development ahead of it being considered for planning approval.Tees Active runs leisure facilities and activities across the Borough on behalf of the Council.

Fans of the hard-hitting crime writer Martina Cole got the chance to learn about the author’s life and work as well as her latest thriller when she visited Thornaby Central Library last month.

Martina (pictured) is renowned for her uncompromising and haunting writing set in and around gangland London. “The Good Life” is her 21st novel and complements a long list of bestsellers which have been adapted for both television and the stage.

The successful evening was just the latest in a series of author events organised by Stockton Council. For more information about forthcoming events in your local library visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Bestselling author comes to Thornaby

Last year following public consultation, Stockton Council announced plans to refurbish and relocate libraries across the Borough.Earlier this month, doors reopened at Norton Library after works to refurbish the popular facility were completed revealing new shelving, furniture and improved layout.

Construction is well under way on a new Library and Customer Service Centre in Billingham and is due to be complete early in the New Year.Design proposals for a new look Yarm Library have also recently gone on display showcasing refurbishment ideas including improved access from the street. Reuben Kench, Stockton Council’s Head of Culture and Leisure, said: “When we consulted local people in the library service review they told us they

appreciated the staff and the quality of service in our libraries but wanted to see improved facilities. All the new look libraries will have a modern feel with convenient self-service kiosks and better computers for the public to use.”Earlier in the year as part of the ongoing programme of library improvements Thornaby (Westbury Street) and Roseworth Library successfully moved into new homes at nearby Children’s Centres.

New look libraries head to Stockton Borough

Reuben Kench, Stockton Council’s Head of Culture and Leisure, looks over design proposals for Yarm Library with Librarian Ivan Limon.

Preston Park skate park is a hit!Preston Park Museum and Grounds is now home to its very own BMX and skateboard park – and it’s the biggest in the Borough!Suitable for both beginners and advanced skaters, BMXers and scooter riders, it boasts jump boxes, rollovers, spines, quarter pipes and even a distinctive bridge.Stockton Council’s Head of Arts and Culture, Reuben Kench, said: “The new skatepark is a fantastic addition to Preston Park and is already proving to be a hit!The new course has been funded by Sport England and Stockton Council. It has been designed by Wheelscape.

For more information visit www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk

Stockton blazes a trail

Blue plaque remembers ‘Housewives’ Champion’The former home of Dr George Cuthbert Mura M’Gonigle has been marked with a blue plaque.

The plaque has been installed by Stockton Council at Sherborne House on Norton High Street (pictured) to commemorate his contribution to public health.

Dr M’Gonigle was Medical Officer of Health for the Borough from 1924 to 1939 and was labelled ‘The Housewives’ Champion’ for his work in studying malnutrition and poverty.

He is one of several prominent residents whose fascinating stories feature on Stockton Council’s brand new website www.heritage.stockton.gov.uk

REDISCOVER SHOPPING THIS CHRISTMASWith a busy markets programme and an array of independent shops Stockton really is the place to be for that special Christmas gift.As part of the town’s multi-million pound regeneration a dedicated place has been created at the south end of the High Street for the traditional market and all of the stall holders have been provided with new blue and white canopies too. A map of the new market layout can be found at www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk/shopping/marketsAt the north end the new on-street car park opposite the Sun public house doubles up as an events space which means that specialist markets can now be held at the heart of the town centre.

On 29 November and 20 December a Farmers’ Market offering the best locally produced food and art will take place there.And from 27 to 30 November the Stockton Sparkles Christmas Market will come to town while the popular traditional market will continue to take place at the southern end of the High Street every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday.For further information about the specialist markets turn to the What’s on section on pages 44-47.

ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORTECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

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Let it glow, let it glow, let it glow!As Stockton Town Centre’s multi-million pound regeneration nears completion the finishing touches are also being made to its new Christmas lights and installations.

The wondrous decorations, which include everything from a giant reindeer to a bauble so big you can walk through it, will be joined by illuminated trees and cross-street canopies, adding even more sparkle to the town this Christmas and for many more to come.

Late night shopping has never been easierWith most shops staying open until 7pm each Thursday and free parking after 3pm in Stockton Town Centre’s short-stay car parks until 31 January, it’s never been easier to do some late night Christmas shopping.

And if that wasn’t enough, a whole host of magical events is lined-up starting with an enchanting Stockton Sparkles launch night on Thursday 27 November (full Sparkles round up on pages 24 and 25).

The town’s shopping centres are getting festive too. From 27 November until Christmas Eve, children will be able to visit Santa in his grotto at Castlegate Shopping Centre. Meanwhile, Wellington Square is holding an “advent calendar” themed free prize giveaway with one lucky shopper winning a prize every quarter of an hour on each of the four

Saturdays leading up to Christmas.

Something to enjoyAfter or during a long shopping day there is plenty of choice when it comes to finding somewhere to stop off to refuel with lunch or tea.Whether it be Italian or Mexican, you’ll find it in Stockton with many of the restaurants offering festive deals and menus.And according to TripAdvisor, the recently opened Vadah on Stockton’s riverside is one of the best five Indian restaurants in the UK!

Rediscover Restaurants:Here’s a selection of the restaurants located in Stockton Town Centre:

Mohujo’s Mexican Restaurant, at the end of Finkle Street

L’Allegria Italian Restaurant, Bridge Road

Borges Italian Restaurant, Yarm Lane

Carpaccios Continental Restaurant, Dovecot Street

Kaminaki Greek Taverna, Church Road

To find out more about restaurants in Stockton Town Centre visit www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk/whats-on/eatingout/

ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORTECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

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Celebrating Stockton’s history

Soon people passing the entrance to the Globe Theatre will notice the pavement has become home to a new, exciting art installation called STELLAR: The Stars Fell on Stockton. Colourful LED light strips will be installed in the paving as well as 15 spotlights, each etched with a portrait of one of the Globe’s past performers.

STELLAR reflects the idea that the musicians and entertainers who performed at the Globe were on career journeys and international tours, following trajectories of their own, but with their paths crossing in Stockton. The artwork records a trace of their passage through the lives of local people.

Another of the exciting things we have been working on recently came to fruition when the Enterprise Arcade moved into its beautiful new home, 35-37 High StreetIn the last year more than 40 new businesses have opened, expanded or relocated in Stockton, ranging from restaurants and cafes to children’s clothes, beauticians and pet accessory shops.The Enterprise Arcade has played a big part in the surge in new independents and will provide up to 16 fledgling retailers with low cost, low risk retail space – all offering a wide range of quality goods.Two of the businesses based in the old arcade in Wellington Square – Expressions Re-Born Babies and Samantha Grig Knitwear – are moving into the new, larger one.The other traders based in the expanded Enterprise Arcade include personalised embroidery, handbags, cake supplies, balloons, hair extensions, gifts and even a milkshake bar!

Meanwhile Poppy Rose, which sells a range of uniquely handcrafted gifts, jewellery and homewares, has graduated from the Enterprise Arcade to a unit on Silver Street while Funky Boutique Furniture, which sells shabby chic items, has moved to Prince Regent Street.Stockton Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, Richard Poundford, said: “This scheme has already helped a number of people create robust and sustainable businesses in Stockton. Through this larger facility we are going to be able to help even more new traders follow in their footsteps and continue to provide a wider and more varied shopping experience for visitors to the town.”Visit www.rediscoverstockton.co.uk, email info@bsupplied.co.uk or call 07851085218 to find out more about opportunities at the Enterprise Arcade.

We have been coming to Stockton for at least

the last 13 years either on a Wednesday or

Saturday. There aren’t many very good markets

about these days but Stockton is among the

best. We always get our eggs from William

the egg man who is a lovely man who feels like

a friend to us. I know the work on the market

place has been an upheaval but that

is to be expected if you want to

make improvements which I hasten

to say looks as if it will be really

nice when it is finished. I was over

the moon to see a Costa Coffee

open in Stockton as it is one of

my favourite coffee shops. There

are also plenty of cafés selling

good food. I am looking forward

to seeing the town centre improvements finished as it will

make a big difference.

Liz Kirkbride, Sunderland.

Ten famous faces including The Beatles, Buddy Holly and The Rolling Stones will all feature alongside The Blue Caps, who were the only local band to ever perform on the stage at the town’s iconic theatre. Earlier this year the public were asked

who they would like to see immortalised through STELLAR and the Blue Caps won the majority of the votes.

Other stars who secured their place following the public vote include The Bee Gees, Norman Wisdom, Ken Dodd and T-Rex.

Liz Kirkbride with her partner Daniel Jenner buying eggs from the Egg Man, William Fife.

Liz Kirkbride from Sunderland regularly

visits Stockton Market and can’t wait to

see the completed Stockton Town Centre:

Almost there...It will be a new year with a new town centre in Stockton.The town’s physical regeneration will soon be finished with the stylish water feature which is currently being built in the centre of the High Street set to be unveiled this spring.Seating, lighting and grass will be incorporated alongside it creating an ambient place for visitors and shoppers to relax.Stockton Council’s Corporate Director of Development and Neighbourhood Services, Paul Dobson, said: “Residents, visitors and businesses have been incredibly patient throughout the last two and a half years so we would like to thank them for that and we are delighted that all of the works will be complete by next spring. It is going to be an exciting few months as not only is the town centre physically changing the atmosphere is too. It is becoming much more vibrant, enticing and welcoming. I’m sure the businesses based in Stockton will soon start reaping the benefits which will last for many generations to come.”

It’s all coming toget her…

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The site of the former ICI headquarters in Billingham is a step closer to being brought back into use.

The former Billingham House site on Belasis Avenue has been bought by neighbouring FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies.The move has been welcomed by Stockton Council, which took action to demolish the eyesore building after its owners left it derelict.Richard Poundford, Stockton Council’s Head of Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “We are very pleased the site has been bought by a local company and we hope that this represents the beginning of a new chapter in the site’s life. It is of great reassurance to us that it is now in the hands of an established local company.”Seimi Satake, Chief Operating Officer at FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, added: “We are pleased to have been able to buy this land with a view to expand our business and facilities.

We hope our exciting growth plans will not only contribute to the revitalisation of the immediate vicinity, but also benefit the wider area in terms of business development opportunities.”

NEW CHAPTER FOR BILLINGHAM HOUSE SITE

Newport Bridge reopens as work continuesStockton Council has revised its programme for repainting and repairing Newport Bridge so the A1032 which runs across it can reopen.Works to repair the 80 year old Grade II listed structure began at the end of July but when the bridge was deep-cleaned significant damage, much worse than originally anticipated, was revealed.

Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, Richard McGuckin, said: “We appreciate the frustration the closure of

this major commuter route has caused so have worked with the contractor to create a solution which will allow motorists to use the road as usual.

“We have a duty to maintain this iconic structure and it is important that we repair it properly now to prevent even more disruption in future.”

A large tunnel style structure has been incorporated as part of the revised £4.1 million programme which means motorists can use all four lanes while the remaining repairs and painting take place.

Investing in YarmCowpen Industrial Estate in Billingham is home to around 100 thriving businesses and over the past six years they have joined forces to create a secure and prosperous home.After setting up an association to share the cost of purchasing security equipment the group then made a successful application for Business Improvement District (BID) status, becoming Cowpen Industrial Association BID.

BIDs are business-led partnerships which focus on improving and enhancing commercial areas. Cowpen Lane was the first industrial estate in the North East to benefit from BID status. The money is raised by businesses paying an additional rate levy of 1.5 per cent which makes it equitable for all companies. Since the estate committee was established the BID has funded new fencing, upgraded CCTV and improved landscaping to enhance the look of the estate.

Chairman of Cowpen Industrial Association BID, Mike Devereux, said: “The BID sees every business contribute towards the wellbeing of the estate. Thanks to the improved security and general look and feel of the estate crime rates are very low – especially compared with other commercial areas.

“Our businesses have made substantial investments in the area and the fact that they continue to thrive and maintain their commitment to the estate demonstrates that it provides a business environment in which they can prosper, flourish and feel confident enough to expand and reinvest.

For more information about BIDs contact Stockton Council on business.enquiries@stockton.gov.uk or call 01642 528384.

Mike Devereux (right) and Geoffrey Robinson from Cowpen Industrial Association (BID)

Stockton Council’s £500,000 investment in the Yarm High Street area has been completed.The investment included:

Paving the area around the Town Hall with Yorkshire Stone which is complemented by a small area of porphyry “cobble sets” to make it easier for people to get to the Town Hall, disabled toilet and war memorial

Upgrading the Pelican crossings to Puffin crossings with sensors so people can cross the road more easily and safely

Introducing new lighting to illuminate the Town Hall at night (pictured) and heritage style street lighting throughout the High Street

Enhancing CCTV coverage to improve community safety.

Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services, Richard McGuckin, said: “The sight of the Town Hall and war memorial when lit up at night is quite breathtaking and made it the perfect setting for the Great War centenary commemorations in August.”

Meanwhile, work is continuing on the creation of a new 38 space long-stay car park behind Barclays Bank on Yarm High Street. The car park will be ready for use by the end of the year.

Richard McGuckin said: “We want to make it as easy as possible for people visiting, working and living in Yarm to park and have been working hard for a number of years to find parking solutions.

“As part of this work we are creating additional long-stay spaces and are continuing to work towards other solutions to bring additional long-stay car parking to Yarm.”

The new car park will complement the existing long-stay car parks at Castle Dyke Wynd and The Old Market as well as the short-stay spaces on the High Street.

Turn to pages 38 and 39 to read more about Yarm’s Great War centenary commemorations in August, which were organised by the Yarm 1914 Centenary Commemoration Group.

Billingham businesses are better together

The former Billingham House site

Repair and repainting work

continues at Newport Bridge.

ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

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ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

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Major investment plans to support Stockton’s growthStockton is a growing and thriving Borough and a growing population can mean increased pressure on services and roads.To keep pace with the change, Stockton Council is planning a series of major investments designed to support growth in the south of the Borough.Among the planned investments are:A new swimming pool, library and leisure centre for Ingleby Barwick

Plans are being developed for a new multi-million pound swimming pool, library and customer service centre in the town.

Stockton Council has earmarked £3.2million towards the new centre and aims to lever in additional funding.

A 25-metre swimming pool, gym, fitness rooms, library and customer services facilities are being considered as part of work to identify the best mix of facilities.

Detailed plans and full costs for a scheme will be developed for consideration as part of next year’s Medium Term Financial Plan.

Improved access and parking at Preston Park

Preston Park has gone from strength to strength since its £7million refurbishment and now welcomes more than 600,000 people every year.

But its soaring popularity has put a strain on car parking capacity and Stockton Council has seen an increase in parking related complaints from nearby residents.

The Council is planning an £800,000 investment to improve car parking at the attraction. This will involve some high quality, sympathetic resurfacing work and drainage improvements.

Like all current parking at Preston Park, the new parking will remain free of charge.

Consultation and engagement with local people and interest groups like The Friends of Preston Park will take place as the plans are developed.

Designs for a wooden footbridge across the river are also being drawn-up to form the basis of funding bids to deliver one.

Improvements to Yarm Library

Stockton Council is planning a £210,000 investment in Yarm library to refurbish the branch and provide better disabled access.

There will also be improvements to the branch’s external appearance to make it more in keeping with its attractive High Street setting – this is in response to views raised during the recent consultation on the library service review.

Investment in the south of the Borough’s road network

To adapt to the physical changes to the Borough, £19million of improvements are planned to the highways network over the next two years to help keep traffic moving.

This follows extensive traffic modelling to identify exactly where these improvements are needed.

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ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

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ECONOMIC REGENERATION AND TRANSPORT

A high flying apprentice has won a prestigious accolade at the UK Life Science Skills Awards.Alex Burr was awarded ‘Higher Apprentice of the Year’ for her work at Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies in Billingham.

The company works with biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies which develop new drugs to combat illnesses such as cancers, diabetes and rare diseases.

Alex, an Applied Bioscience Technology student, is undertaking a three-year Life Sciences Higher Apprenticeship.

“It can be hard work studying while working but the benefits of learning ‘on the job’ and earning a salary make it worthwhile,” she said. “I’m thrilled and proud to receive this award.”

The awards were organised by Cogent, the strategic skills body for the science industries.

Enterprise made easyBuilding on its ‘Reaching Retailers’ brand, Stockton Council has appointed business development agency, B Supplied Ltd, to support the Borough’s retail sector.

B Supplied directors, Brian Jackson and Dave Crompton, have vast experience in supporting established businesses and start-ups and both run their own businesses.

B Supplied will:

Carry out outreach and engagement work to promote retail as a viable self-employment opportunity, developing business ideas and providing support and assistance to people starting a retail business in Stockton. Manage and promote Stockton’s recently relocated Enterprise Arcade (more on page 13), providing day-to-day assistance to traders within the Arcade. Provide one-to-one support to Stockton Town Centre businesses and coordinate monthly networking meetings.

To find out more about what B Supplied can offer, email info@bsupplied.co.uk

Evolving at a rapid rate!Evolution Valves is exporting its way to success with record sales figures being put down to booming orders from America, the Caribbean and Lithuania.

After achieving record sales of £1million in January, the company went one better with £1.6million of sales in August.

The company makes components for the energy sector and manufactured what is thought to be the world’s first rubber-lined fire safe butterfly valve for the oil and gas industry.

Founders Peter Cone and Steve Heap started out in Stockton Business Centre but have expanded into a new manufacturing facility on Lime Oak Way, Portrack.

Peter said: “We find that the ‘Made in the UK’ banner is still associated globally with quality, integrity and performance which exactly fits with our products.”

Support from Stockton Council encouraged them to take on apprentices and explore funding options for their expansion, helping them open a sales office in Houston, Texas.

Welcomed 13 companies onto the Tees ValleyEnterprise Zone

As part of the Impetus’ strategy for diversion awayfrom landfills, the company has recently signed a 20-year agreement to supply waste to renewable energyspecialist Air Products. Air Products is constructing anadvanced gasification energy-from-waste plant in TeesValley. Impetus is building a new waste transferstation adjacent to the Air Products plant, which willbe capable of processing 600,000 tonnes of wasteper annum.

Supported over £630m of investment byattracting new companies to the area andhelping businesses grow, creating andprotecting over 4,000 jobs

FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies opened its newmanufacturing facility after investment on the site inBillingham. It is the first facility of its kind in the UK anddesigned with input from regulatory authorities and keycustomers, it will offer high flexibility for meetingcustomers' needs. The facility has been designed forrapid further expansion to meet customer demandand will create 70 jobs.

Secured just over £9m from the RegionalGrowth Fund to offer direct financial support tohelp businesses grow with a target to create orsecure 800 jobs.

The Jobs & Skills Investment Scheme was launched inApril 2014 offering a wage subsidy to supportcompany growth plans. In the first three months thisscheme has created 176 jobs in Stockton-on-Tees. Inaddition to this the new Business Growth InvestmentScheme will provide grants between £25,000 - £1m tosmall and medium sized enterprises in Tees Valley.

Secured a total £76m to deliver local prioritiessuch as improve transport links, develop theworkforce and support businesses

Work commenced on the Thornaby Road CongestionRelief Local Pinch Point Scheme on the A174 ParkwayExtension. Work has also started on the HighwaysAgency Pinch Point Schemes at the A19/A174Parkway and A19/A689 Wynyard Junctions, to reducequeuing and facilitate future development plans.

Launched the ‘Tees’Marketing Campaign Promoting the success of real TeesValley Businesses and the endlesspossibilitees and opportunitees thearea has to offer.

What’s Next?We will create 25,000 jobs and £1bn extra into the economy by 2025You can read the full Tees Valley Unlimited Annual Report by visiting www.teesvalleyunlimited.gov.ukor calling 01642 524 400 for a copy

Annual Report Summary 2014 - STOCKTON-ON-TEESStockton Council is proud to be part of Tees Valley Unlimited – the Local Enterprise Partnership for Tees Valley.

Tees Valley Unlimited is a public and private sector partnership. Our role is to help Tees Valley grow. We will do thisby attracting new investment to the area, building better transport links, training our workforce and creating more jobs.

TVU’s Partnership Business Plan was published in April 2011. Since then TVU has:

Stockton Summary 3_Layout 1 23/09/2014 14:27 Page 1

Recognition for rising star Alex

Alex Burr (centre) shows off her award joined by Sharon Connor of award sponsor, Johnson & Johnson, and compere Dara Ó Briain.

CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLECHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE

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FREE CHILDCARE FOR TWO YEAR OLDS - NEW CRITERIA!!! Following a change to the eligibility criteria your two year old child may now be entitled to 15 hours’ free childcare a week during school term time if they meet certain criteria.

To find out more, pick up an application form from your local Children’s Centre, call a member of the Families Information Service on 01642 527225 or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/freechildcare

Private Fostering – are you looking after someone else’s child?Stockton Council needs to know about any children who are being privately fostered. When a parent asks another adult who is not a close relative to look after their child for more than 28 days it constitutes private fostering.Anyone who is already privately fostering, or who plans to privately foster, should email firstcontact@stockton.gov.uk or call 01642 527764.

To find out more visit www.stockton.gov.uk/privatefostering

Parents with children due to start primary school next year are being urged to return their admission forms to secure a place at their preferred school.If your child was born between 1 September 2010 and 31 August 2011, they will be due to start primary school in September 2015.To secure a place you must complete an application form to register with the Council’s School Admissions Team and let them know which schools you would prefer your child to attend.The application form will give you the opportunity to put up to three school preferences on the form and give reasons for the application. The closing date for application forms is Thursday 15 January 2015.Any school applications received by post after the deadline will be logged as a ‘late application’ and will not be processed until places have been allocated to those submitted on time. This means your child could miss out on a place at one of your chosen schools.For more information, or to request an application form, call the School Admissions Team on 01642 526605 or email: school.admissions@stockton.gov.ukYou can also save time by applying online at www.stockton.gov.uk/schooladmissions and clicking on the link ‘apply for a school place online.’

Wendy is a foster carer from Norton who is in her 50s. She is single and has been fostering teenagers for 12 years on a long-term basis until they reach adulthood. Here, she talks about the rewards of fostering and why teenagers deserve a chance. “Many people have this perception that young people come into foster care because they’re naughty. This couldn’t be further from the truth. They need to be fostered because it has become too unsafe for them to live at home. “Put yourself in their shoes and think how vulnerable you’d feel, walking into the home of your new foster carer, being shown to a strange bedroom and unpacking your belongings, knowing that life as you knew it has now changed. On top of that, you’re a teenager battling through the hormonal and physical changes of adolescence, which can be both embarrassing and confusing. “I try to make everyone feel welcome as soon as they walk through the door. They may arrive in a hard teenage shell but I take the time to get to know them and what they’ve been through and we start to break down barriers to reveal what kind of support they’re going to need from me, to build up their self-esteem. “Like any family with teenagers, we have house rules, which everyone is asked to respect. We don’t swear. They

come in on time and hand back their games consoles before bed so that they wake up refreshed for school. They make their beds and keep their bedrooms tidy. Of course I do find sweaty socks lying around, as well as the odd mouldy plate but they are teenagers, after all! “Any parent would agree that teenagers push boundaries but we compromise and earn each other’s respect. I once took them on holiday and they forgot about their curfew. There I was, wandering round a dark campsite calling their names before they eventually turned up. They could see the worry on my face and apologised profusely for what they’d put me through. The penny dropped and they realised someone cared. I took away their mobile phones as punishment but for weeks they were asking if they could help me with anything in a bid to make it up to me. “They eventually grow up and move out, but this will always be their home so they’re always back to visit, often with partners and children. Fostering teenagers is wonderful, they deserve a chance and although I worry about where I’m going to sit them all for Christmas dinner, I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Give Teenagers a Chance

Primary schools admissions reminder

It is one thing learning in the classroom but quite another when it comes to putting those skills to the test in the real world.Just ask this team of Media, Film and Music Technology students from SRC Bede Sixth Form Billingham who helped record the live DVD for one of Teesside’s biggest up-and-coming bands, Cattle and Cane.Sydney Gardner, 17, from Billingham, said: “When it’s your own work you don’t think about messing up as you can always start again but when you are in a real situation you have to get it right first time.”The live DVD will form part of Cattle and Cane’s album release package.

Live gig puts students to the test

Pictured left to right - Sydney Gardner, Connor Alderson, Dylan Nicholson, Emily Bean and Callum Rattray.

Stockton Teacher Training Partnership, which offers postgraduate students the opportunity to gain qualified teacher status by working within one of the Borough’s schools, has been praised by Ofsted.

The partnership is one of a select few nationwide to be included on the school watchdog’s outstanding practice website.

Trainees who complete the course also achieve a PGCE at Masters level with Leeds Metropolitan University. Laura Cummings and Sarah Fallowfield recently received prizes from the university for the quality of their PGCE work on the Stockton course.

Sarah, who has just started her teaching career at Rosebrook Primary School in Stockton in September, said: “The teachers in my placement schools, Rosebrook and Myton Park, were so supportive and I’ve learned a great deal from them.”

For more information about training to be a teacher in Stockton visit www.stockton.gov.uk/scitt

Laura Cummings at Wolviston Primary School

Stockton’s teacher training is top of the class!

Sarah Fallowfield at Rosebrook Primary School

If you think you could foster on a long- term basis, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/fostering email child.placement@stockton.gov.uk or call 01642 526218

COMMUNITY SAFETYCOMMUNITY SAFETY

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DAY IN THE LIFE

Hailing a safe journey homeAs the festive season gets underway Stockton Council is reminding residents to be on their guard when getting a taxi home over the holiday period. Stay safe by avoiding taxi touts and unlicensed vehicles which are known to operate in busy areas.Private hire vehicles should be booked in advance and the price of the fare should be confirmed at the time of booking. Only licensed hackney carriages can be flagged down and customers should make sure that the meter is being used.

Peter Kelly, Stockton’s Director of Public Health, said: “At this time of year there is always an increase in the number of people using taxis at the end of an evening out. We want people to have a fun and enjoyable night out and to get home safely.“Be vigilant and only use licensed hackney carriages and private hire vehicles. Licensed vehicles are regularly tested for safety and all licensed drivers are vetted and approved by the Council before a licence is issued.”

The Safer Stockton Partnership (SSP) works to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour, prevent substance misuse and reduce fear of crime and disorder across the Borough.The partnership is made up of elected members of the Council, Cleveland Police, Cleveland Fire Authority, probation service and a broad range of voluntary and community groups. Following consultation Stockton residents identified the following key issues as priorities for the partnership over the next three years.

Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) Violent crime (including robbery) Drug related offending Criminal damage Alcohol related crime and ASB Domestic violence

These key priorities now form the basis of the Community Safety Plan 2014-17 which sets out how the partnership works with the Council and other agencies to develop projects and initiatives to reduce crime. Progress is monitored quarterly. Geoff Lee, who has been Chairman of the SSP since 2005, said: “The Safer Stockton Partnership sees different agencies come together to tackle crime and the fear of

crime across Stockton Borough. We all bring different skills and experience to the table but improving community safety and protecting those who are vulnerable are of utmost importance to all our partners which is why we work effectively together.”Steven Hume, Stockton Council’s Community Safety Manager, said: “Crime has continued to reduce in Stockton over the last five years and Stockton continues to be the safest place to live in the Tees Valley.”For more information about the Safer Stockton Partnership visit www.saferstockton.com

Jenny Cowell, Environmental Health OfficerEvery day, Stockton Council’s Environmental Health Officers work behind the scenes to keep premises across the Borough safe for local people to enjoy.Jenny Cowell, 33, is just one member of the team who works round the clock to make sure Stockton’s food retailers are safe and hygienic.Jenny qualified with a degree in Environmental Science then joined the Council 12 years ago, shortly after graduating from Birmingham University with a Masters in Environmental Health.“I used to watch television shows such as ‘Life of Grime’ and always thought it looked like such an interesting job,” she says. “I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty!”With more than 1,300 food businesses across Stockton and a strict code of practice to follow, Jenny and her colleagues are kept busy by their impromptu inspections of food businesses throughout the year.Day to day she visits cafés, restaurants, pubs and takeaways to ensure their safety measures are in place and meet legal requirements. She scores each business against the National Food Hygiene Rating scheme. Ratings are published on the Food Standards Agency website so consumers can find out about the hygiene standards of food premises when choosing where to eat or shop for food.

“We score each business from zero to five, with five being the best rating,” she says.

“There’s a big list of criteria we

look at which includes everything from the way food is handled and stored, the cleanliness of the entire premises and the management system records kept to ensure food safety.”Thanks to support from Jenny and the food team, local restaurants Borge in Stockton Town Centre, and Mohujo’s in Billingham, are just two eateries which have retained the maximum rating of five.Her work also plays a vital role in helping local businesses improve their food hygiene ratings. “Each business is different so it’s such a varied job. I really enjoy working with the restaurants and playing my part in protecting public health”, Jenny adds.“Often business owners will come to us for help on improving their rating so it’s great to be in a position where I can help solve a problem or give advice.”Full details of the Food Hygiene Rating Scheme and how ratings are calculated can be found on Stockton Council’s website www.stockton.gov.uk/foodhygienerating/Jenny is also Stockton’s co-ordinator for the North East Better Health at Work Award scheme, which sees her help organisations across the Borough to improve the health of workers, their families and local communities. To find out more visit www.betterhealthatworkne.org

Meet the Safer Stockton Partnership!

Geoff Lee (left) chairs a meeting of the Safer Stockton Partnership

To report anti-social behaviour in your area call Stockton Council’s Anti-Social Behaviour line on 01642 607943.

ARTS, CULTURE AND LEISUREARTS, CULTURE AND LEISURE

Stockton is set to sparkle brighter than ever this winter with a series of special events in the run-up to Christmas. Festive markets, traditional carol singing and a spectacular launch event are all part of this year’s exciting programme. Here is just a taste of what to expect:

Sparkles LaunchNorth End of Stockton High Street Thursday 27 November, 5.30pm to 7pm Lights switch on at 6.30pm

Wrap up warm for a magical evening of yuletide fun hosted by BBC Tees. Stockton Town Centre will come to life with the sights and sounds of Christmas where there will be plenty of festive dance and music to enjoy – not to mention the singing Christmas tree! The evening will end with a dazzling display of fireworks in the town centre.

Sparkles Christmas Market Stockton High Street Thursday 27 – Sunday 30 November Thursday 9am to 7.30pm, Friday 9am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 6pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm

This year sees the Sparkles Christmas Market move onto the newly refurbished High Street for four days packed full of goodies, perfect for Christmas gifts.

There will be 30 cabins selling items such as candles, clothes, jewellery and decorations. Take a break and have a bite to eat at one of the food cabins where there will be a range of delicious treats on offer such as sausages, warm spiced mulled wine and speciality coffees as well as traditional sweets and Christmas chocolates.

Santa’s post office will also make a return to make sure your Christmas present wish list gets to him in time!

Mayor’s Carol ServiceStockton Parish Church Friday 5 December, 1.30pm to 3.30pm

The Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Barbara Inman, will be spreading Christmas cheer as she hosts the Mayor’s Carol Service.

The service will take place at Stockton Parish Church with a 500-strong choir made up of local school children, Infant Hercules, Stockton Male Voice Choir and members of the public.

Christmas MazeStockton High Street Saturday 6 - Sunday 14 December

Step into the new snow covered maze and experience a tangle of mystery, surprise and comedy as you try to find your way through, stumbling upon unusual Christmas characters the further you explore. The maze is free of charge and booking is not required.

Reindeer Parade Stockton High Street Sunday 14 December 2pm

Come and see Father Christmas and his entourage of reindeers as he makes his way along Stockton High Street on his sleigh. There’s also live dance and music performances and late night shopping throughout the town centre.

Stockton Sparkles brighter than ever!

To see the full programme of Stockton Sparkles events visit

www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonsparkles

HEALTH AND WELLBEINGHEALTH AND WELLBEING

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Keeping warm and well

We continue to bring you news of how Stockton Council, NHS health partners and other organisations are working together to tackle health inequalities through the Borough’s Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2013 – 2018. In this issue we look at Warm Homes, Healthy People, a scheme to support vulnerable people during winter.

If you struggle to stay warm or pay your fuel bills during winter, Stockton Council can provide help to keep you warm and healthy.

Cold weather can have a serious impact on people’s health and can cause

problems such as pneumonia, strokes, depression and heart attacks which is why it’s so important people keep warm during the winter months.That’s where Stockton Council’s ‘Warm Homes, Healthy People’ scheme can help

The Council works with several partners to support vulnerable residents during winter and improve health, home energy efficiency and housing standards.

Residents across the Borough have already benefited from the scheme. Judith, who lives in Billingham, was having financial difficulties and struggled to pay her utility bills after being made redundant. After contacting the Council she was referred to local charity, Five Lamps, through the Warm Homes Healthy People scheme.

Judith’s main concern was her outstanding gas and electricity bill of £1,764, which had been an issue since 2010 when her supplier had failed to replace her meter.

Through the Warm Homes Healthy People scheme she was able to obtain a grant to clear her outstanding bill. She also received help with switching her energy supplier to a lower, more affordable tariff which saved a further £66.25 a year.

Judith said: “I can now focus on the future and making a new start with my finances. Even when you are very independent you need the help and support of organisations like Five Lamps to help ease the pressure which was also affecting my health.”

The scheme also offers residents in the Borough the chance to volunteer as part of its ‘buddying’ scheme. Volunteers who would like to become ‘buddies’ will receive full training and be partnered with a vulnerable resident of the Borough, providing them with assistance over the winter months.

Brushing up on dental healthA new scheme to promote good dental hygiene to children is being piloted in Stockton. Stockton Council has commissioned a universal programme to provide fluoride toothpaste and toothbrushes for nursery aged children up to school entry age. It will be trialled in primary schools across the Borough.

Poor dental health in children and young people can cause significant pain and can impact on their general wellbeing, self-esteem and even education. The scheme will encourage children to look after their teeth from a young age, promote regular tooth brushing and help to educate families about good dental hygiene at home.

Protect yourself and your family from fluThe NHS is encouraging people to protect themselves against flu this winter with a free vaccination.For the majority of people, flu is an unpleasant, but not life-threatening illness. However, it can be very serious for older people and those groups at risk of developing complications. The flu vaccine changes every year to fight the latest strains of flu, so even if you had a vaccination last winter you need another one this year to stay safe from flu. If you think you need a flu jab, contact your local GP for a free vaccination. To find out more about flu visit www.nhs.uk/flu

A healthy startEssential vitamins are vital to maintaining good health and although people can get them from a healthy, balanced diet they may need extra specific vitamins at important stages of life.

That’s why Stockton Council is backing the national Healthy Start scheme, which offers free vitamins to pregnant and breastfeeding women and their children to keep them healthy and strong.

The scheme was previously open to low income families but has now been expanded so that all pregnant and breastfeeding women can receive the vitamins whatever their circumstances. The vitamins will be provided to children from around six months old or when they are drinking less than 500mls of infant formula a day up until they reach their fourth birthday.

To find out more and pick up a Healthy Start voucher, contact your local midwife or health visitor or visit www.healthystart.nhs.uk

No smoking signs designed by a Stockton schoolboy are being installed in children’s playgrounds across the Borough.

Kaleb Watson-Hunt created the winning design (pictured) when he was a Year 6 pupil at Rosebrook Primary School.

The signs encourage parents and carers not to smoke in and around playgrounds.

Peter Kelly, Stockton’s Director of Public Health, said: “We want to protect children from second-hand smoke but we also want to remind parents and carers that children are influenced by what they see. Making playgrounds smoke free decreases the opportunity for children to see adults smoking around them.”

Stub it out in Stockton’s playgrounds

Kaleb Watson-Hunt shows off his winning design

Are you eligible for the scheme?If any of the following apply to you:

On low income and struggle to afford heating Over 75 Have a disability Are vulnerable and living alone You or your child has a long term illness made worse by the cold

You could get help with: Energy debt and welfare benefits advice and assistance Home handyman service to assist with minor repairs

Installation of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and falls prevention equipment where needed Additional advice and support to help keep you healthy and more able to cope with the cold weather

Additionally, if you are over 75 or you or your child has a long term illness or disability, you may also be eligible for emergency heating and boiler servicing and repairs.

To find out more about the service or become a ‘buddy’ visit www.stockton.gov.uk/warmhomes or call 01642 528215.

If you require emergency help with heating contact the Fire Brigade on their 24 hour helpline number 01429 874 063

ADULTS SERVICESADULTS SERVICES

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Stockton Council works hard to protect vulnerable adults across the Borough and support the friends and family who care for them. This includes help for those people who may be at risk of financial abuse. For people assessed as being unable to manage their property and financial affairs, usually because of mental incapacity and where they have no relatives, friends or a solicitor to help, the Council can act on their behalf.

The Council can apply to the Government to be an appointee. This means that they act on behalf of a vulnerable person, for example organising benefit claims for someone who cannot manage their own affairs, or making arrangements to pay their bills from their own money.If someone can no longer manage their own affairs then the Council can apply to the Court of Protection to become a deputy. Deputies are normally appointed where there is an ongoing need for decisions to be made on behalf of that person.Liz Hanley, Adult Services Lead for Stockton Council, said: “Depending on the person’s needs and circumstances, the Council can apply to be an appointee or deputy to manage their financial

affairs. This can range from receiving their state benefits and using this income to pay their daily living expenses, paying care fees and ensuring people living in care homes receive their personal allowance. The role of deputy can involve managing the vulnerable person’s savings, income, such as an occupational pension, and their property.”If you already receive social care services in Stockton and need more information contact your care manager who will be able to help you. If you do not have a care manager, please contact Stockton Council’s First Contact Team on 01642 527764 or email: firstcontact@stockton.gov.uk

Helping vulnerable adults with their finances

Tees Achieve learner, Clare Smeaton

To find out more about Tees Achieve courses visit www.stockton.gov.uk/teesachieve call 01642 520704 or enrol in person at Billingham Community Centre, The Causeway, Billingham or Stockton and Thornaby Central Libraries.

Make 2015 a year to learn!What will 2015 bring? It could be the year to try something new.Tees Achieve is offering a whole range of courses from gardening to pilates, upcyling garments and foreign languages.All courses are taught by Tees Achieve’s expert, friendly tutors at venues across the Borough.After attending a Sewing Bee class, Claire Smeaton from Thornaby said: “Nine months ago I had never sat at a sewing machine, now I confidently sew for myself and friends. Tees Achieve courses are more than just learning or improving a skill. I’ve made some lovely friends along the way.”Tees Achieve is Stockton Council’s Adult Education Service. Earlier this year it was rated “good” overall by Ofsted with an “outstanding” rating for the overall effectiveness of its community learning.Inspectors found “skilled and enthusiastic” tutors providing “interesting and often stimulating” lessons and that “a good proportion of learners have progressed to paid employment.”

HELP AND ADVICE IS AVAILABLE FROM:

Stockton CouncilWebsite: www.stockton.gov.uk/benefitchangesCall the Welfare Rights Service: 01642 526141 Call the Housing Options Service: 01642 528389Stockton District Advice and Information ServiceCall: 0844 4111 444 or 03003300 650For appointments call: 01642 633877

Five LampsWebsite: www.fivelamps.org.ukCall: 01642 608316

The Money Advice ServiceWebsite: www.moneyadviceservice.org.ukCall: 0300 500 5000

StepChange Debt CharityWebsite: www.stepchange.orgCall: 0800 138 1111

National DebtlineWebsite: www.nationaldebtline.co.ukCall: 0808 8084000

Support for households affected by Welfare ReformsHouseholds across Stockton Borough are continuing to feel the impact of welfare reforms.More than 100 families living across Stockton Borough have been affected by the benefits cap since it was implemented and more than 400 children live in affected households.Stockton Council is working closely with its partners to support residents affected.

The Council has employed a Benefit Cap Project Worker to provide advice and support on a range issues from budgeting to benefit entitlement, financial capability training and referrals to employment support. Head of Housing and Community Protection at Stockton Council, Julie Nixon, said: “We were worried that families may start using their child benefit and child tax credit to pay their rent, and children may therefore go without essentials. To prevent this we look at the needs of the whole household and provide the necessary support at an early stage.”

ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSINGENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING

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We know the upkeep of our roads and pavements is important to our residents.That’s why we’re investing £9million in our highways and footpaths infrastructure over the next three years.And we’re using a range of techniques and technologies to minimise disruption while making sure the money we spend goes the extra mile.Already this year, we’ve undertaken an additional 12,000 square metres of road resurfacing – that’s the equivalent of three full-size football pitches.Here’s a flavour of some of the work that is going on over and above our routine highways and footpaths maintenance programme:

We are on course to complete the renewal of an additional 40 kilometres of white and yellow lines with work being targeted towards the areas where this is needed most. We are renewing hundreds of missing and damaged cats’ eyes, predominantly on our rural road network. An additional 2,500 pothole repairs and “patching” to smaller sections of carriageway are currently being undertaken using methods that enable a quick but long-lasting fix that protects the carriageway from further deterioration. We are using a special blasting technique to restore skid-resistance on approaches to roundabout junctions where needed. This speedy technique extends the life of the carriageway for years at a fraction of the cost of conventional surfacing treatments, improving road safety, minimising disruption to traffic and saving the taxpayer money. A programme to seal joints and cracks in our roads and footpaths is helping us stay one step ahead of the freezing winter weather. It involves a barrier treatment that prevents water from getting into our road and footpath surfaces, thus putting a stop to the damaging “freeze-thaw” effect.

Your Council – Ambitious, effective and proud to serve…

Stockton Council’s £14 million programme to install super-efficient street lighting across the Borough is well under way.The seven-phase programme began in the Roseworth ward in July and by the end of Phase 1 – which runs until December 31 – will have started in the Western Parishes, Norton South, Hartburn and Stockton Town Centre wards.

In a period of just over three years, 28,000 lanterns will be replaced with modern LED lighting units. All street lighting columns over 25 years old will also be replaced.

The Council’s £14million investment in the scheme will generate projected savings of £1.8million per year – the money saved can then be invested in other Council services.

The new LED lights also have a longer lifespan, use less energy than the current bulbs, are fully recyclable and contain no toxic

materials which makes them far more environmentally friendly.

Valmont Stainton Limited, based on Teesside Industrial Estate, is manufacturing the street lighting columns. Stainton Lighting Design Services Limited, also on Teesside Industrial Estate, is responsible for ensuring the lighting columns are strategically placed so streets are lit to the British Standard.

When is super-efficient street lighting coming to you?The seven-phase programme will come to the wards with the greatest percentage of columns over 40-years-old first – in some wards, there are lighting columns over 80-years-old!

Most areas will only be in need of lantern replacements but some will also involve the addition or replacement of street lighting columns.

The following wards are in Phase 2, which runs from January 2015 to July 2015. The “Big plans, bright future” programme will start in each of these wards before the end of July:

Mandale and Victoria Village Grangefield

For full details of the programme and to find out when it is coming to your area visit www.stockton.gov.uk/streetlighting

It’s easy to report damaged roads, footpaths or potholes.Fill in a simple form on the Council’s website – visit www.stockton.gov.uk/doitonline or, call the Council’s contact centre on 01642 391959.

£9m

Stockton Council’s Head of Technical Services Richard McGuckin (right) joins a street lighting operative as the programme gets under way in Roseworth.

Big plans, bright future!

MAKING

INVESTMENT GO THE EXTRA MILE

Fixing the Borough’s roads.

YOUR COUNCIL

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ENVIRONMENT AND HOUSING

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Housing chief thanked by CouncilStockton Council has presented recently retired Chair of Tristar Homes, John McDougall, with an award for his tireless efforts in managing and improving social housing for people living across Stockton Borough since 2005.

John had high ambitions for the organisation during his tenure and these have been realised as the organisation has grown and changed, recently becoming part of the newly-formed Thirteen Group.

Julie Nixon, Stockton Council’s Head of Housing and Community Protection, said: “John’s knowledge and experience combined with a great sense of humour have made him a very effective Chair. He has worked hand in hand with the Council to deliver our shared vision to provide good quality housing for local people and for this we would like to thank him.”

The regeneration of two sites within walking distance of Stockton Town Centre is continuing at a pace.The demolition of the first homes on the Victoria Estate is under way, marking a major step forward in the estate’s regeneration.The 1960s estate, behind Splash, comprises more than 250 homes and so far 36 have been demolished so redevelopment of the site can start.Stockton Council and Thirteen have been working together with local people for some time to make sure that residents and their families can be rehoused elsewhere in the

Borough. To date 112 households have been relocated as part of a phased approach, giving the opportunity to start the demolition on the site. The demolition of the whole estate is expected to be complete by 2018.Meanwhile, the regeneration of Stockton’s Swainby Road area continues to progress and the demolition of all remaining properties is now complete.Stockton Council is working in partnership with Keepmoat Homes and Thirteen to develop 174 good quality new homes for sale and rent. The development will be called Norton Park and over the coming months Keepmoat Homes will be working with local schools to name streets within the estate.

Work on site will begin this month and it is anticipated that the scheme will take five years to complete, with residents moving into new homes from summer next year.Julie Nixon, Stockton Council’s Head of Housing and Community Protection, said: “It’s great to see the regeneration of the Swainby Road and Victoria Estate areas progressing. We are working with partners to move forward with plans to provide residents with a range of good quality housing for sale and rent in and around Stockton Town Centre.”For more information on housing regeneration across the Borough visit www.stockton.gov.uk/housingregeneration

Regeneration of Stockton estates gathers pace

Last chance to register!Stockton residents are urged not to miss their chance to be registered under the new Individual Electoral Registration (IER) system, which makes every individual responsible for registering themselves.Most residents have automatically transferred to the IER register. However, some have been sent a form to provide further information to complete their registration.If the information is not provided, electors may lose their postal vote on 1 December and risk being removed from the electoral register next year.Why not join the two million people across the country who have registered online since the system was introduced in June? Visit www.gov.uk/register-to-vote or simply call Electoral Services on 01642 526196 to register over the phone.To find out more about the changes go to www.gov.uk/yourvotematters

Here we bring you our regular update on the consultations being carried out by the Council.Having a say on planningIn February and March, the Council will be asking people their views on which land should be identified for housing, employment, shopping, open space, community and transport facilities.We will also be stating how we will protect the natural and built environment and encourage sustainable development when people make applications for planning permission.We have produced a plan called the Regeneration and Environment Local Plan document and will be asking for your views on it. During the consultation period, the plan will be available on the Council’s website and hard copies will be available in main Council offices and local libraries.After this, the plan will undergo an examination-in-public to see if a planning inspector considers it is the right plan for the Borough. If you want to comment or put your name and contact details on the spatial planning database, contact the Council’s Spatial

Planning team on 01642 528557, email spatialplans@stockton.gov.uk or visit www.stockton.gov.uk/spatialplanning

Request for principal area boundary reviewIn September, members of Stockton Council considered a request from Yarm Town Council that they invite the Local Government Boundary Commission for England to carry out a principal area boundary review in light of a recent parish poll.Stockton Council decided not to agree to the request. A number of concerns were raised including the cost to the taxpayer, the potential impact on health and social care services as well as on school catchment areas, and the effect of changes to licensing on local businesses.

Do you have a view? Join Viewpoint!Do you want to help make the Borough a better place to live, work, learn and visit? Do you want to help the Council make decisions that affect you and your local community?If you have answered “yes” and you are a Stockton resident aged 18 or over, why

not join Viewpoint – Stockton Council’s residents’ consultation panel?Viewpoint helps us understand what residents think about Council services and how we might shape them to improve the Borough.Each year, Viewpoint members are asked to fill in up to four ‘standard’ surveys of up to 10 questions and up to 12 rapid response surveys of up to five questions. Standard surveys can be filled in either online or in hard copy format, while rapid response surveys are conducted solely online.The surveys are focussed on some of the issues that are of the highest priority to the Council at the time.To register for Viewpoint send your name, postal address and email address (if you have one) to: Freepost RTKU-KGBC-LRTEK, Viewpoint, Stockton Borough Council, PO Box 11, Municipal Buildings, Church Road, Stockton-on-Tees, TS18 1LD.For more information or to register online visit www.stockton.gov.uk/viewpoint

The Norton Park masterplan

YOUR COUNCILYOUR COUNCIL

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Each year the Association of Public Service Excellence (APSE) awards attract hundreds of submissions from councils across Great Britain.

This year Stockton Council won the ‘Best Housing and Regeneration Initiative’ and was shortlisted for the prestigious overall Council of the Year Award – for the fifth year running. Along with this Stockton was also shortlisted in eight separate service award categories.

Neil Schneider, Chief Executive of Stockton Council, said: “Despite the very challenging times our hard working and dedicated staff work tirelessly to continue providing services to the very highest standards and it is a credit to them that these awards recognise their fabulous contribution.”

Best Housing and Regeneration Initiative – Mandale ParkStockton Council won this award for its work with residents and partners to transform Mandale Park, Thornaby. The project celebrated its 10th anniversary this year and during that time, 578 properties have been demolished and replaced with 770 quality new homes.

Best Health and Well-being Initiative – Community Bridge BuildingThe Council’s new Community Bridge Building (CBB) service offers practical help and training to support people with disabilities to access activities and gain independence. Sean, aged 33, from Thornaby is benefitting from the scheme, learning to travel

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STOCKTON SERVICES SHINE ONCE AGAINStockton Council has once again been recognised nationally for providing excellent services to the Borough’s residents.

on his own with help from Stockton Council employee Joan Robb (pictured).

Best Public/Voluntary Partnership Working Initiative – Invest for SuccessStockton Council has developed a new model of investment funding to help the Voluntary, Community, Social Enterprise (VCSE) sector in Stockton thrive. Butterwick Hospice is just one Borough organisation to benefit from a grant from the Council’s investment fund, enabling the charity to develop capacity and compete for local contracts as well as buy essential equipment.

Best Community and Neighbourhood Initiative – The Spirit of StocktonThrough creatively bringing communities together and providing unique opportunities for them to connect, interact and engage in a series of special

events, Stockton Council and its creative partner Mike McGrother, is bringing a sense of pride and ownership to the transformation of Stockton Town Centre.

Best Service Team Building/Facilities Cleaning – Keeping it clean The Council’s building cleaning team has increased business this year by securing new contracts across the Borough and wider North East.

Best Service Team Waste Management and Recycling – Smarter Routes for Smarter StocktonStockton Council’s new ‘smarter routes’ strategy has revolutionised its refuse and recycling service, reducing costs, carbon emissions and fuel consumption.

Best Service Team Parks Grounds and Horticulture – Clean, preen and suitably greenStockton Council has been working with residents, voluntary organisations and community groups to keep the Borough’s green spaces and floral displays well-maintained and attractive.

Best Service Team Sports, Leisure and Culture – Funky Feet Stockton Council’s Funky Feet sessions for two to four year olds aim to help children develop social skills, keep active and have fun.

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You might have heard that Channel 4’s “Benefits Street” cameras have been filming in Stockton. Their presence here has done little for the image of our fine Borough and its proud communities and judging by the calls and letters we’ve received you agree! So why don’t we tell people what Stockton-on-Tees is really about? The “Positively Stockton-on-Tees” campaign will show what a great place our Borough is. We’ve got lots planned - but we need your help. We’d love you to get involved and share your ideas. Go to www.positivelystocktonontees.co.uk or just keep listening…many quiet voices can make a LOT of noise!

We think Sto ckton-on-Tees is actually rath er good. Pass it on.

Positively Stockton-on-Tees

www.positivelystocktonontees.co.uk

An initiative supported by Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

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STRONG COMMUNITIES

Communities across the UK came together in August to mark the 100th anniversary of the outbreak of the First World War.

In Stockton, the 1,245 Sunflowers project culminated in a poignant 1,245 minute tribute held in the town’s Parish Gardens during August 4 and 5.

Led by the Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Barbara Inman, people from the Borough and beyond were drawn to the Gardens to reflect on and remember those who fought and died during the conflict.

The Gardens were awash with sunflowers grown by people from all corners of the community, as well as letters and photographs of the thousands who gave their lives to fight for Britain.

The names of Stockton’s 1,245 fallen soldiers listed in the Book of Remembrance were read out overnight. The Mayor read the first 60 names and paid tribute to the unnamed soldier with a candlelit vigil and a shared moment of quiet reflection.

She said: “The 1,245 Sunflowers project touched the lives of thousands of people. It was a true honour to be a part of the final tribute which saw the whole community pay their respects to the men, women and families who were all a part of conflict. It has been a wonderful, moving way to help keep the memory of them alive today.”

The community-led tribute continued with readings and music, concluding with the sound of a lone bugler on the central bandstand.

Coming together to remember

STRONG COMMUNITIES

In Yarm, hundreds gathered for a two day commemorative event organised by the Yarm 1914 Centenary Commemoration Group.Wartime memorabilia, Victorian fairground rides and period music all formed part of the daytime commemorations on 3 August, when Cleveland Police Band led cadets and veterans in a parade to Yarm War Memorial, where the names of the town’s 85 fallen soldiers were read out.

A special service was held at the War Memorial on the evening of 4 August. Eighty-five candles, each held in a handcrafted glass poppy, were extinguished one by one until the Last Post sounded at 11pm.In Thornaby, the community came together at a commemorative event held in the Pavilion Shopping Centre to pay tribute to those from the town who lost their lives, while in Billingham a ‘Summer of WW1’ themed event was held in John Whitehead Park.

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Nominate your community champions now!Do you know anyone who goes the extra mile to help others in your community? If so, Stockton Council wants to hear from you.Nominations are now open for the Borough’s Civic Awards, which recognise those remarkable people who make a real difference in their communities.There are five categories:

Young Person Award Service to Community Award - (groups and organisations) Service to the Community Award - (individuals) Green Award Carer/Foster Carer Award

To find out more, or to make a nomination, visit www.stockton.gov.uk/civicawards or call the Mayor’s office on 01642 528161.The deadline for nominations is 5pm on Friday, February 20 next year.

WARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA

BILLINGHAM CENTRAL 6:30PM – 7:30PM10 December 2014, Billingham Youth & Community Centre14 January 2015, Billingham Youth & Community Centre11 February 2015, Billingham Youth & Community Centre11 March 2015, Billingham Youth & Community CentreCOUNCILLOR MRS ANN McCOYTel: 01642 535604Email: ann.mccoy@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR BARRY WOODHOUSETel: 01642 371638Email: barry.woodhouse@stockton.gov.uk

BILLINGHAM EAST28 November 2014, New Life Family Centre, 5:00pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, 5:45pm – 6:30pm12 December 2014, New Life Family Centre, 5:00pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, 5:45pm – 6:30pm30 January 2015, New Life Family Centre, 5:00pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, 5:45pm – 6:30pm27 February 2015, New Life Family Centre, 5:00pm – 5:40pmHereford Centre, 5:45pm – 6:30pm27 March 2015, New Life Family Centre, 5:00pm – 5:40pm, Hereford Centre, 5:45pm – 6:30pmCOUNCILLOR MICK STOKERTel: 01642 371641Email: mick.stoker@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILOR EVALINE CUNNINGHAMTel: 01642 532090Email: evaline.cunningham@stockton.gov.uk

BILLINGHAM NORTH 6:30PM – 7:30PM08 December 2014, High Grange Community Centre12 January 2015, North Billingham Methodist Church 09 February 2015, High Grange Community Centre09 March 2015, North Billingham Methodist ChurchCOUNCILLOR MRS LYNNE APEDAILETel: 01642 554344Email: lynne.apedaile@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR COLIN LECKONBYTel: 01642 872896Email: colin.leckonby@stockton.gov.uk

BILLINGHAM NORTH 7:15PM - 8:15PM 02 December 2014, High Grange Community Centre06 January 2015, North Billingham Methodist Church 03 February 2015, High Grange Community Centre03 March 2015, North Billingham Methodist ChurchCOUNCILLOR RAY McCALLTel: 01642 880999Email: ray.mccall@stockton.gov.uk

BILLINGHAM SOUTH 6:00PM – 7:00PM11 December 2014, Billingham Town Council Meeting Room08 January 2015, Billingham Town Council Meeting Room12 February 2015, Billingham Town Council Meeting Room 12 March 2015, Billingham Town Council Meeting Room COUNCILLOR MRS JEAN O’DONNELL Tel: 01642 559717 Email: jean.odonnell@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR MICHAEL SMITH Tel: 01642 371782Email: michael.smith@stockton.gov.uk

BILLINGHAM WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM28 November 2014, Wolviston Court Community CentreNo December surgery30 January 2015, Wolviston Court Community Centre27 February 2015, Wolviston Court Community Centre27 March 2015, Wolviston Court Community CentreCOUNCILLOR MRS MARY WOMPHREYTel: 01642 555755 Email: mary.womphrey@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR MICK WOMPHREYTel: 01642 555755Email: mick.womphrey@stockton.gov.uk

BISHOPSGARTH & ELM TREE (STOCKTON)18 November 2014, Elm Tree Community Centre, 6:00pm - 7:00pm04 December 2014, Bishopsgarth School, 6:00pm - 6:30pm16 December 2014, Elm Tree Community Centre, 6:00pm - 7:00pm08 January 2015, Bishopsgarth School, 6:00pm – 6:30pm13 January 2015, Elm Tree Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm05 February 2015, Bishopsgarth School, 6:00pm – 6:30pm10 February 2015, Elm Tree Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm05 March 2015, Bishopsgarth School, 6:00pm – 6:30pm10 March 2015, Elm Tree Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pmCOUNCILLOR MRS JULIA CHERRETTTel: 01642 785473Email: julia.cherrett@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR ELLIOT KENNEDYTel: 01642 618851Email: elliot.kennedy@stockton.gov.uk

EAGLESCLIFFE18 November 2014, Egglescliffe Community Centre, 6:30 - 7:30pm05 December 2014, Trinity Methodist Church, 6:30 - 7:30pm16 December 2014, Egglescliffe Parish Hall, 6:00 - 7:00pm20 January 2015, Egglescliffe Community Centre, 6:30 – 7:30pm06 February 2015, Trinity Methodist Church, 6:30 – 7:30pm17 February 2015, Egglescliffe Parish Hall, 6:00 – 7:00pm06 March 2015, Trinity Methodist Church, 6:30 – 7:30pm17 March 2015, Egglescliffe Community Centre 6:30 – 7:30pmCOUNCILLOR ALAN LEWISTel: 01642 784910Email: alan.lewis@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR MRS MAUREEN RIGGTel: 01642 785689Email: maureen.rigg@stockton.gov.uk

EAGLESCLIFFE21 November 2014, Egglescliffe Parish Hall, 5:45pm - 6:45pm08 December 2014, Preston Primary School, 5:30pm - 6:30pm12 January 2015, Preston Primary School, 5:30pm - 6:30pm16 January 2015, Egglescliffe Parish Hall, 5:45pm – 6:45pm09 February 2015, Preston Primary School, 5:30pm - 6:30pm20 February 2015, Egglescliffe Community Centre, 5:30pm – 6:30pm09 March 2015, Preston Primary School, 5:30pm – 6:30pm19 March 2015, Egglescliffe Library, 5:45pm – 6:45pmCOUNCILLOR PHIL DENNISTel: 01642 790916Email: phil.dennis@stockton.gov.uk

FAIRFIELD 6.00pm – 6.30pm08 December 2014, Wellburn House12 January 2015, Wellburn House09 February 2015, Wellburn House09 March 2015, Wellburn HouseCOUNCILLOR MAURICE PERRYTel: 01642 586914 Email: maurice.perry@stockton.gov.uk COUNCILLOR BILL WOODHEADTel: 01642 584409Email: bill.woodhead@stockton.gov.uk

Our regular “Spotlight On” feature highlights the work of some of Stockton’s voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations carrying out highly commendable work across the Borough.Tees Valley Community Foundation (TVCF) is one of the UK’s leading Community Foundations and is currently celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Since it began the Stockton based charity has achieved some truly remarkable successes; it has given away over £30 million, touching the lives of more than 60,000 local people and it has built a permanent fund in excess of £15 million to ensure that it can continue to give away at least £1 million each and every year to support our community.

Its role as an independent charity is to support the community across the Tees Valley through the giving of grants, advice and technical support.

Over the last 25 years TVCF has given help to community groups, to undergraduate students with bursaries and to charities supporting children with special educational needs.

Tens of thousands of local children and young people have benefited from its award-winning outdoor training centre, Peat Rigg, on the North York Moors, which offers personal development training and team building. It is also a fully working farm and all the food served is either grown or reared on site, giving a real insight into how our food is produced.

A true broker of local philanthropy, The Foundation works with individuals and businesses who wish to ‘put something back’ into their community.

Hugh McGouran, Chief Executive of the Foundation, said: “I’m clear about what a Community Foundation is – it’s all about knowing what’s needed on our patch.

TVCF also needs volunteers. To find out more about this rewarding role and give something back to your community, or find out more about the work of TVCF or to apply for a community or individual grant visit www.teesvalleyfoundation.org or call 01642 260860.

SPOTLIGHT ON…

More Credit Union collection points!Tees Credit Union has opened four more collection points, making it even easier to access fair and ethical financial services across the Borough.

In the July edition of Stockton News we brought you news of a new collection point at Sunrise Children’s Centre in Parkfield.

Four new collection points have now been added at the following locations:

Billingham Food Bank, 4-6 West Precinct, Billingham

St John’s Church, Stillington

Oxbridge Lane Primary School, Oxbridge Lane, Stockton

Ewbank Community Centre, Ewbank Drive, Stockton

Credit unions are not-for-profit organisations which offer fair and affordable financial services as an alternative to payday lenders, loan sharks and pawn shops.

The Tees Credit Union is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and offers a wide range of financial products and services.

Membership is open to all Stockton residents, including those who don’t have a bank account, credit or debit card and are struggling with their own or family finances.

To find out more about the collection points and their opening times, call 01642 753517 or visit www.teescreditunion.co.uk

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WARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA WARD SURGERIES IN YOUR AREA

NORTON WEST 01 December 2014, Glebe Community Centre, 10:00am - 12noon02 December 2014, Crooksbarn Primary School, 4:30pm – 5:30pm, The EducationCentre, 5:45pm – 6:45pm05 January 2015, Glebe Community Centre, 10:00am - 12noon06 January 2015, Crooksbarn Primary School, 4:30pm – 5:30pm02 February 2015, Glebe Community Centre, 10.00am – 12noon03 February 2015, Crooksbarn Primary School, 4:30pm – 5:30pm02 March 2015, Glebe Community Centre, 10.00am – 12noon03 March 2015, Crooksbarn Primary School, 4:30pm – 5:30pmCOUNCILLOR DAVID WILBURNTel: 01642 532517Email: david.wilburn@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR NORMA WILBURNTel: 01642 532517Email: norma.wilburn@stockton.gov.uk

PARKFIELD & OXBRIDGE 6:00PM – 7:00PM20 November 2014, Oxbridge Christian Fellowship04 December 2014, Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only)Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only)18 December 2014, Oxbridge Christian Fellowship15 January 2015, Oxbridge Christian Fellowship05 February 2015, Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only)Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only)19 February 2015, Oxbridge Christian Fellowship05 March 2015, Parkfield Community Centre (Cllr Javed only)Oxbridge Christian Fellowship (Cllr Rose only)19 March 2015, Oxbridge Christian FellowshipCOUNCILLOR MOHAMMED JAVEDTel: 01642 602420Email: mohammed.javed@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR DAVID ROSETel: 01642 789993Email: david.rose@stockton.gov.uk

ROSEWORTH 5:30PM – 6:30PM 08 December 2014, Kiora Hall 12 January 2015, Kiora Hall 09 February 2015, Kiora Hall 09 March 2015, Kiora Hall COUNCILLOR JIM BEALLTel: 01642 871759Email: jim.beall@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR MISS BARBARA INMANTel: 01642 586564Email: barbara.inman@stockton.gov.uk

STAINSBY HILL 5:00PM – 6:00PM17 November 2014, Eltham Crescent Community CentreNo December surgery26 January 2015, Eltham Crescent Communuity Centre09 February 2015 , Eltham Crescent Communuity Centre30 March 2015, South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre,

COUNCILLOR DERRICK BROWNTel: 01642 751028Email: derrick.brown@stockton.gov.uk

STAINSBY HILLNo December surgery17 January 2015, Thornaby Pavilion, 11:00am – 12:0019 February 2015, Eltham Crescent Communuity Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm19 March 2015, South Thornaby Community & Resource Centre 6:00pm – 7:00pm, COUNCILLOR MRS SYLVIA WALMSLEYTel: 01642 602375Email: sylvia.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk

STOCKTON TOWN CENTRE 6:00PM – 7:00PM27 November 2014, Culture CIC, Dovecot St04 December 2014, The Willows Centre11 December 2014, Parkfield Community Centre08 January 2015, Parkfield Community Centre22 January 2015, Culture CIC, Dovecot St05 February 2015, The Willows Centre12 February 2015, Parkfield Community Centre26 February 2015, Culture CIC, Dovecot St05 March 2015, The Willows Centre12 March 2015, Parkfield Community Centre26 March 2015, Culture CIC, Dovecot StCOUNCILLOR DAVID COLEMANTel: 01642 673952Email: david.coleman@stockton.gov.uk COUNCILLOR PAUL KIRTONTel: 01642 559331Email: paul.kirton@stockton.gov.uk

VILLAGE 5:00PM – 6:00PM08 December 2014, The Griffin Pub12 January 2015, The Griffin Pub 16 February 2015, The Griffin Pub16 March 2015, The Griffin PubCOUNCILLOR IAN DALGARNOTel: 01642 882985Email: ian.dalgarno@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR MICK MOORETel: 01642 764381Email: mick.moore@stockton.gov.uk

WESTERN PARISHES 7:00PM – 8:00PM05 December 2014, The Wilson Centre, Long Newton,02 January 2015, The Chapel School Room, Carlton06 February 2015, Stillington Village Hall, Stillington, 06 March 2015, The Wilson Centre, Long Newton,COUNCILLOR ANDREW STEPHENSONTel: 0778 529 3416Email: afsegg@hotmail.co.uk or andrew.stephenson@stockton.gov.uk

YARM 5:45PM – 6:30PM02 December 2014, Layfield Primary School06 January 2015, Levendale Primary School, 03 February 2015, Yarm Library, 03 March 2015, Layfield Primary School, COUNCILLOR BEN HOUCHENTel: 01642 786639 Email: ben.houchen@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR ANDREW SHERRISTel: 01642 786767Email: andrew.sherris@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR MARK CHATBURNTel: 01642 789982Email: mark.chatburn@stockton.gov.uk

GRANGEFIELD WARD17 November 2014, Fairfield Library, 12:00 – 1:00pm04 December 2014, Grays Road Institute, 6:00pm – 7:00pm08 December 2014, Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 6:00pm – 7:00pm15 December 2014, Fairfield Library, 12:00 – 1:00pm12 January 2015, Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 6:00pm – 7:00pm19 January 2015, Fairfield Library, 12:00 – 1:00pm05 February 2015, Grays Road Institute, 6:00pm – 7:00pm09 February 2015, Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 6:00pm – 7:00pm16 February 2015, Fairfield Library, 12:00 – 1:00pm05 March 2015, Grays Road Institute, 6:00pm – 7:00pm09 March 2015, Hartburn Scout Group Hut, 6:00pm – 7:00pm16 March 2015, Fairfield Library, 12:00 – 1:00pmCOUNCILLOR CAROL CLARKTel: 01642 675688Email: carol.clark@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR MICHAEL CLARKTel: 01642 675688Email: michael.clark@stockton.gov.uk

HARDWICK & SALTERS LANE WARD No December surgery09 January 2015, Salters Lane Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm10 January 2015, Aspen Gardens, 11:00am – 12:0006 February 2015, Salters Lane Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm07 February 2015, Aspen Gardens, 11:00am – 12:00 06 March 2015, Salters Lane Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm07 March 2015, Aspen Gardens, 11:00am – 12:00 COUNCILLOR NIGEL COOKETel: 01642 589442Email: nigel.cooke@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR NORMA STEPHENSON OBETel: 01642 675891Email: norma.stephenson@stockton.gov.uk

HARTBURN 6:45PM start01 December 2014, Elmwood Community Centre05 January 2015, Elmwood Community Centre02 February 2015, Elmwood Community Centre02 March 2015, Elmwood Community CentreCOUNCILLOR TERRY LAINGTel: 01642 587356Email: terry.laing@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR KEN LUPTONTel: 01642 587286Email: ken.lupton@stockton.gov.uk

INGLEBY BARWICK EAST 6:00PM – 7:00PM(Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick West)10 December 2014, All Saints C of E Secondary School07 January 2015, All Saints C of E Secondary School

04 February 2015, All Saints C of E Secondary School04 March 2015, All Saints C of E Secondary SchoolResidents of Maltby & Hilton are welcome at Ingleby Barwick Ward Surgeries but if unable to attend, can request a meeting with Councillors Corr, Faulks and Kirby by appointment before Parish Council meetings.

COUNCILLOR GILLIAN CORRTel: 01642 764056Email: gillian.corr@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR KEVIN FAULKSTel: 01642 764874Email: kevin.faulks@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR JEAN KIRBYTel: 01642 762092Email: jean.kirby@stockton.gov.uk

INGLEBY BARWICK WEST 6:00PM – 7:00PM (Joint surgery with Ingleby Barwick East)10 December 2014, All Saints C of E Secondary School07 January 2015, All Saints C of E Secondary School04 February 2015, All Saints C of E Secondary School04 March 2015, All Saints C of E Secondary SchoolCOUNCILLOR KEN DIXONTel: 01642 764650Email: ken.dixon@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR DAVID HARRINGTONTel: 01642 764652Email: david.harrington@stockton.gov.ukSkype: david.harrington01642COUNCILLOR ROSS PATTERSONTel: 01642 764865Email: ross.patterson@stockton.gov.uk

MANDALE & VICTORIA29 November 2014, Robert Atkinson Youth & Community Centre, 11:00am - 12:00No December surgery 31 January 2015, Rochester Court Sheltered Housing, 11:00am - 12:0025 February 2015, Robert Atkinson Youth & Community Centre, 4:00pm - 5:00pm 28 March 2015, Robert Atkinson Youth & Community Centre, 11:00am - 12:00COUNCILLOR TINA LARGETel: 01642 676509Email: tina.large@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR STEVE WALMSLEYTel: 01642 604176Email: steve.walmsley@stockton.gov.uk

MANDALE & VICTORIA19 November 2014, Rochester Court Sheltered Housing, 10:30am – 11:30am16 December 2014 , Robert Akinson Youth & Community Centre, 6:00pm – 7:00pm17 December 2014 , Riverbank Children Centre, 10:30am – 11:30amJanuary to March surgery dates to be confirmedCOUNCILLOR TRACEY STOTTTel: 01642 674471Mobile: 07528 014 605Email: tracey.stott@stockton.gov.uk

NEWTOWN 6:00PM – 7:00PM28 November 2014, Newtown Community Resource Centre

12 December 2014 , Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre09 January 2015, Newtown Community Resource Centre23 January 2015, Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre06 February 2015, Newtown Community Resource Centre20 February 2015, Ragworth Neighbourhood Centre06 March 2015, Newtown Community Resource Centre20 March 2015, Ragworth Neighbourhood CentreCOUNCILLOR PAUL BAKERTel: 01642 608406Email: paul.baker@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR BOB GIBSON OBETel: 01642 614482Email: robert.gibson@stockton.gov.uk

NORTHERN PARISHES 6:30PM – 7:00PM 11 December 2014, Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles08 January 2015, Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe Thewles05 February 2015, Wolviston Village Hall12 March 2015, Grindon Parish Hall, Thorpe ThewlesCOUNCILLOR JOHN GARDNERTel: 01740 645357,Email: john.gardner@stockton.gov.uk

NORTON NORTH 6:00PM - 7:00PM19 November 2014, Norton North Community & Resource Centre17 December 2014, Norton Library14 January 2015, Frederick Nattrass Children’s Centre11 February 2015, Norton North Community & Resource Centre18 March 2015, Norton Library, COUNCILLOR STEVE NELSONTel: 01642 534417Email: steve.nelson@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR MRS KATHRYN NELSONTel: 01642 534417Email: kathryn.nelson@stockton.gov.uk

NORTON SOUTH 5:30PM – 6:30PM25 November 2014, Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place 09 December 2014, Albany Resource Centre06 January 2015, Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place20 January 2015, Albany Resource Centre03 February 2015, Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place17 February 2015, Albany Resource Centre03 March 2015, Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance Place, 17 March 2015, Albany Resource Centre, 31 March 2015, Assembly Hall, St John Ambulance PlaceCOUNCILLOR BOB COOKTEL: 01642 890058Email: robert.cook@stockton.gov.ukCOUNCILLOR EILEEN JOHNSONTEL: 01642 673952Email: eileen.johnson@stockton.gov.uk

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WHAT’S ONA look at what’s going on across Stockton from November 2014. This is just a taster so for more information about these events and for a full list visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events. The events

listed are subject to change. We reserve the right to alter or cancel any event.

NOVEMBER

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Parkmade Stained GlassDate Saturday 22 NovemberTime 10am – 4pmLocation Preston Park Museum and GroundsAn exciting opportunity for you to work with a professional glass worker to create a beautiful glass panel for you to take home on the day. The course costs £60 and places need to be booked in advance at www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk or by calling 01642 527820.

Winter Trail Series – adult (5k) and youth (2k) racesDate Sunday 23 NovemberYouth Race: (8 – 14 yrs) – Register from 9am, race starts 9.45am Adult Race: (15 yrs +) – Register from 9am, race starts 10.15amLocation Cowpen Bewley Woodland Park, BillinghamWorking alongside the Tees Trail Races team Stockton Council have organised a series of great races throughout the winter that will keep the popular series running all year round. The races are open to runners of all abilities, with extra support and encouragement on hand for less experienced runners. Cost: Adult Race £3 (UK Athletics Affiliated Members), £5 (Non UK Athletics Affiliated Members). Youth Race £1.

Stockton Sparkles launch nightDate Thursday 27 November Time 5.30pm – 7pmLocation Stockton High StreetHosted by BBC Tees the launch of Stockton Sparkles will see not only the Christmas lights switch on but a magical evening filled with festive music and dance, a singing Christmas tree and a fireworks spectacular. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonsparkles

Stockton Sparkles Christmas MarketDate Thursday 27 November to Sunday 30 November Time Thursday 9am – 7.30pm, Friday 9am – 6pm,

Saturday 9am – 6pm, Sunday 10am – 4pmLocation Stockton High Street This year sees the Sparkles Christmas Market move onto the newly refurbished High Street for four days packed full of goodies, perfect for Christmas gifts. There will be 30 cabins plus you can take a break and enjoy a bite to eat from the food cabins. Santa’s post office will also make a return so make sure your Christmas present wish list gets to him in time. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonsparkles

Farmers’ MarketDate Saturday 29 NovemberTime 9am – 3pmLocation Stockton High StreetHigh quality food produced within 50 miles of the Borough is the order of the day at the ever popular Farmers’ Market. The perfect opportunity to sample local food and support local businesses by purchasing a variety of tasty treats. For more

information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Wild ChristmasDate Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 NovemberLocation RSPB Saltholme, Port ClarenceGet ready for the festive season.

Learn all about the wildlife which stays with us over the

winter months. Storyteller Chris Connaughton will be sharing a festive tale

and there’ll be lots of activities to take part in. Cost: Non RSPB members, £4 per car. £6 activity pass per child. RSPB members, free parking, £4.50 activity pass per child. For more information visit www.rspb.co.uk/saltholme

Parkmade Pumpkins & SquashesDate Sunday 30 NovemberTime 11.30am – 3.30pmLocation Preston Park Museum and GroundsAn exciting food demonstration exploring how to use pumpkins and squashes. Resident ParkMade cook, Deborah Batley will demonstrate several tasty recipes. Sample some treats and take home new ideas to inspire your own culinary creations. For more information visit www.prestonparkmuseum.co.uk

DECEMBER

Mayor’s Carols ServiceDate Friday 5 DecemberTime 1.30 – 3.30pmLocation Stockton Parish ChurchThe Mayor of Stockton, Councillor Barbara Inman, will be spreading Christmas cheer as she hosts the Mayor’s Carol Service at Stockton Parish Church with a 500 strong choir made up of school children, Infant Hercules, Stockton Male Voice Choir and members of the public. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonsparkles

AladdinDate Saturday 6 December to Sunday 4 JanuaryTime VariousLocation Billingham Forum TheatreA classic family pantomime. For tickets and more details visit www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk

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Christmas MazeDate Saturday 6 to Sunday 14 December Times VariousLocation Stockton High StreetAre you ready to get lost this Christmas? Then step into our snow covered maze and experience a tangle of mystery, surprise and comedy as you try to find your way through, stumbling upon unusual Christmas characters the further you explore. It’s free of charge and booking is not required. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonsparkles

Christmas Cracker Guided Cycle RideDate Sunday 14 DecemberTime 11am – 12 noonLocation The Hub, 17 Bridge Road, StocktonThe Hub’s annual Christmas ride returns. Get your Santa hats on (over your cycling helmet of course) for a fun, flat three mile ride around Stockton. There will be a free mince pie on offer for all cyclists and a present for any children who join in. Mainly on cycle paths, this ride is suitable for small children accompanied by an adult. For more information please call The Hub on 01642 803441.

Reindeer ParadeDate Sunday 14 DecemberTime 2pmLocation Stockton High StreetCome and see Santa and his entourage of reindeers as he makes his way along the High Street on his sleigh. There’s also live dance and musical performances to get everyone in the festive spirit! For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonsparkles

Dick Whittington on iceDate Sunday 14 December to Thursday 18 December Times VariousLocation Billingham ForumTees Active and junior members of

Billingham Ice Skating Club present this classic tale. Tickets cost £8.50 for adults and £5.60 for

concessions. Tickets available from reception or via www.teesactive.co.uk or by calling 01642 551381.

Friends of Ropner Park Christmas FairDate Sunday 14 DecemberTime 11am – 12 noonCome along to Ropner Park for live music, stalls, tombola and games. The Choir of St. Peter’s Church will lead a session of carol singing. The Ropner Park cafe will be open to serve refreshments and snacks. For more information visit www.forp.org.uk

Christmas Farmers’ MarketDate Saturday 20 DecemberTime 9am – 2pmLocation Stockton High StreetHigh quality food produced within 50 miles of the Borough is the order of the day at the ever popular Farmers’ Market. The perfect opportunity to sample local food and support local businesses as well as grabbing any last minute Christmas gifts. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Sound of the Eightees Christmas PartyDate Saturday 20 DecemberTime 8pmLocation Georgian Theatre, Stockton Town CentreSound of the Eightees is back for its annual festive shindig, this time with a tribute to 80s legends The Pet Shop Boys. In between the band our DJ spins out the best in 80s classics from ABC to ZZ Top. Fancy dress optional but encouraged - the perfect Christmas Party outing. For more information visit www.georgiantheatre.co.uk or call 01642 606525.

There’s lots more going on at your local arts and entertainment venues – simply visit their websites or call:

ARC visit www.arconline.co.uk tel (01642) 525199

Billingham Forum visit www.forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk tel (01642) 552663

Georgian Theatre visit www.georgiantheatre.co.uk tel (01642) 674115

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www.stockton.gov.uk/events

Arthur’s Dream BoatDate Wednesday 17 to Wednesday 24 December Time VariousLocation Arc, Stockton Town CentreMagical and playful children’s theatre with breath-taking puppets. Tickets cost £9, family (four people) £32. For more information visit www.arconline.co.uk or telephone 01642 525199.

Christmas Carols ServiceDate Monday 22 DecemberTime 6.30pm – 7.15pmLocation Holy Trinity Church, Trinity GreenJoin school and church choirs as well as the Salvation Army Band at this magical Christmas carols service in a truly enchanting setting - the preserved ruins of Holy Trinity Church. Professional lighting and sound provided by Stockton Council make this an unforgettably heartwarming experience. For more information visit www.stockton.gov.uk/events

27 November – 14 DecemberStockton Sparkles returns with even more sparkle than last year!Launching with the Christmas lights switch on and an evening filled with singing, dancing, fireworks and the UK’s first Singing Christmas Tree. Highlights include the Christmas market (always good for present buying) our popular Reindeer Parade and our brand new snow covered Christmas Maze.

For more details visit: www.stockton.gov.uk/stocktonsparkles

See Stockton sparkle!