Redditch matters - Redditch Borough Council - Worcestershire Hub

insidethisissue...RedditchmattersCampaignto putpride intoRedditchHerecomessummer!WINtickets tothe PalaceTheatreBehind thescenes atForge MillVisit us online at www.redditchbc.gov.ukSummer 201O

Now you have aToddler!We can offer you lots of support and advice to help you cope with your tiny tearaways!Family SupportOne 2 One support for:Settling to sleepToilet trainingFaddy eatingand much moreStay & PlayA place to meet other parentsand children and have fun playsessions with your child.Speech & LanguageTherapyLanguage learning is a very complexprocess & it is not suprising that somechildren need more help than others.Speech and Language Therapists canprovide workshops to help parentsgain skills in how to help theirchildren with speech and language.To book a place or find out moreinformation please call 65668.Telephone 0800 085 8106 or pop in toyour local Children’s Centre for more informationMessy PlayCome along to Messy Play,experience & explore the fun oftextures all in a play session.More and more people are getting onto theproperty ladder with Orbit HomeBuy Agents.We are the HomeBuy Agent for Herefordshire and Worcestershire, and wehelp people in all sorts of circumstances to find their dream home.In this role, we act as the first point of contact for all those seekinga home through one of the range of HomeBuy low-cost homeownership and discounted market rent products.For full details visit our website at www.orbithomebuyagents.co.ukor call us on 03458 50 20 50.Just think – you could soon be living in that home youthought was out of reach!Open the door to your new home with Orbit HomeBuy AgentsTerms and conditions apply – ask for details. Orbit HomeBuy Agents is managed by Orbit Homes (2020) Limited, a memberof Orbit Group Limited which is an exempt charity registered under the Industrial and Provident Societies Act 1965.2 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

NEWS from your CouncilMessage fromthe newMayor –CouncillorKath BanksI WISH to thankeveryone for givingme the honour ofbecoming the Mayor ofRedditch. I intend,especially, to work hard tohelp the young people ofRedditch achieve their ambitions and improve theiraspirations.Together with my chaplain, the Reverend Jo Musson,the theme for the coming year is helping the youngpeople of Redditch fulfil their potential in life.I want to highlight the many opportunities and venuesin Redditch which can all benefit from increasedattendance, including our sports facilities, as well asthe opening of the new BMX track in Matchboroughwhich will bring a lot of interest and support. I amlooking forward to the new swimming pool being built- a much needed facility. Religious centres areunderused places and I would like to see thesedevelop as real community assets. The Arts are wellrepresented in Redditch, with many opportunities tosing and dance in the town. NEW College and ourlocal schools are equally great assets and I amcommitted to encouraging the education of ouryoung people so they can take a full and active partin our society.I look forward to working with you to promote andsupport our assets and ambitions.Putting pride into RedditchTHIS summer Redditch Borough Council will belaunching a campaign to promote Redditch as avital, vibrant and very special place to live in, work inor indeed visit.`Redditch – it’s my place` is a marketingcampaign that will feature adverts, posters, art ina bus shelter plus stories about Redditch and theCouncil’s work posted on Twitter, Facebook andthe Council’s website, all under the `Redditch –it’s my place` identity.As Council Leader, Cllr Carole Gandy says: “I,like many people living here, moved toRedditch and have found it to be a goodplace.“We are well located, not far from thecountry’s second city and an internationalairport, have an enviable amount of greenspace and trees, and excellent facilities likeour rather special theatre and fantasticshopping centre.“Few places can boast a sailing lake just a few miles from their town centre or even freeflowingtraffic around the town.“This campaign is all about putting pride into Redditch. We are proud to serve you asyour Council and pleased to see signs of optimism after some difficult times – the newWetherspoons celebrating our Royal Enfield motorbike manufacturing heritage and alsothe ambitions of our football club with a new manager keen to make his mark.”Watch out for `Redditch – it’s my place` over the summer when we hope you will agreethere is much to be proud about in what we have called `Worcestershire’s green andenterprising town`.Above - Advert highlighting Redditch’s many treesLook out for news of `Walk the Wards` when councillors and senior officersincluding the Chief Executive will be visiting borough wards to discuss the latestissues and support provided by your Council.Changes from the local electionREDDITCH voters went to the polls on the 6thMay. The result of the local election saw theConservative majority on Redditch BoroughCouncil increase to five seats.The Leadership, Portfolio Holders, Mayor and DeputyMayor, and former Mayor Cllr Malcolm Hall picturedat the AGM.And turnout was particularly high as the localelection coincided with the General Election.There are now 17 Conservative councillors, nineLabour councillors and three Liberal Democratcouncillors.At the Council’s AGM on 24th May, Cllr CaroleGandy was re-elected to serve as Leader ofthe Council for 2010/11. Cllr Mike Braley was reelectedas Deputy Leader.Meanwhile retiring Mayor, Cllr Malcolm Hall,passed on his chain of office to Cllr Kath Bankswho was elected to serve for 2010/11. TheDeputy Mayor is Cllr Anita Clayton.The Council’s equivalent of the Government’sCabinet is the Executive Committee. Thecommittee comprises the leadership plus theCouncil’s portfolio holders, who takeresponsibility for specific areas of the Council’swork ranging from community safety toplanning and economic development. Thereare nine councillors on the committee – sixConservatives (the leadership and portfolioholders), two Labour and one LiberalDemocrat.• Following public consultation, councillorswere due to decide on 14th June whether tohave a new-style strong Leader and Cabinetexecutive or an elected Mayor and Cabinetexecutive. At the same time they weredeciding whether to stick with elections bythirds or have all-out elections every four years.Any changes agreed are due to take effectfrom the May 2011 local election. Seewww.redditchbc.gov.uk or the local press forthe very latest news.*See page 16 for a list of new Councillors.4 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

RedditchArts Festivalto hit the airwavesAN exciting bid by FLAIR, the Festival ofLocal Activities in Redditch, hopes to seelive art events and news from this year’sRedditch Arts Festival broadcast to thewhole of Redditch later this year via radioand online videocasts.FLAIR has applied to Ofcom for a 28-daylicence that if successful would see AIR FMbroadcast from late August to lateSeptember.This will coincide with the Redditch ArtsFestival that begins in September andconcludes on 26th September with aNational Bandstands Marathon in the towncentre in support of the Cultural Olympiadmarking London 2012.The Festival is being organised by RedditchBorough Council, FLAIR and KingsleyCollege working through AIR, the Arts inRedditch Partnership.The Chair of AIR, Jan Higgitt, said: “We wanteveryone to get involved. The Festival willbe a showcase for all that is great aboutRedditch and the arts. The Festival willcater for all tastes, from an outdoorperformance of The Importance of BeingEarnest at Forge Mill on 27th and 28thAugust, to the ever-popular Big K concertat Kingsley College on 19th September.Redditch gorgeson GeorgeST GEORGE’S Day celebrations returned to thetown on 23rd April in the shape of aninteractive horse and knight show riding intoChurch Green and, on this occasion, a veryfriendly dragon. The family entertainmentincluded a jester, face painting, a traditionalMummers play performed by Redditch YouthTheatre and singing by pupils from WebheathFirst School Choir.More town centre events are planned for laterin the year to help boost the town centreeconomy.Knights to remember in Redditch.The day theMercianscame totownTHE people of Redditch turnedout in their thousands, on whatwas unfortunately a wetSaturday, back in March, towarmly greet around 200soldiers from the MercianRegiment as they paradedphoto: Abby Stonehall Photographythrough the town centre. Theywere joined by 100 veterans and civic dignitaries for a service of commemoration and thelaying of wreaths at the war memorial by St Stephen’s Church.Later, Colonel Marks formally received the Freedom of the Borough from the Mayor andChief Executive of the Borough Council at a reception and ceremony held at the AbbeyStadium. The regiment used the opportunity to present medals to a number of soldiers torecognise their gallantry serving in Afghanistan.Regional BBC TV, who filmed the event, commented it was probably the best supportedand most well organised army parade it had covered in the region.Sharing of services – the very latestTHE Shared Services project involvingRedditch and Bromsgrove Councils is beingmanaged through a Shared Services Boardcomprising of councillor representativesfrom both authorities. They last met on 20thApril and have recently reported back tostaff and key partners on the following:➤ Future programme and transformation -a three-year programme is beingdeveloped by late June that willincorporate shared services andtransformation. This will see Councilservices considered for sharing, asappropriate, in the same way thatsome have already become shared.These include community safety,elections, IT and CCTV/Lifeline. About sixto eight services will be transformedbefore they are considered for sharing.Transformation will be about puttingyou, the customer at the heart ofCouncil service delivery. Council staffwill play a big part in helping to identifyunnecessary waste and bureaucracyas part of the process.➤ Audit Commission report - thisindependent organisation has studiedhow Shared Services has beenmanaged so far. They have reportedthat good progress is being made. Theyhave made some usefulrecommendations in their report andthese have already been addressed.➤ Framework/Secondment Agreement - aformal and legal agreement seeking toformalise arrangements for sharingbetween both Councils has beenproduced. It covers how to managethe relationship between the twoCouncils as they move forward,including principles such asgovernance arrangements, staffingarrangements, sharing costs andresolution in the event there are anydisputes.➤ Head of Service vacancies - the singlemanagement team, which formallycame into being on 20th April, will be atfull strength by early July following theappointment to two vacancies - RuthBamford as Head of Planning andRegeneration (an existing RedditchBorough Council employee) andAmanda de Warr as Head of CustomerServices who joins from Wychavon DistrictCouncil.➤ Worcestershire Enhanced Two Tier (WETT) -this is a related `shared services`programme involving the County Counciland the six district councils inWorcestershire. Regulatory services(includes licensing, environmental healthand trading standards) is one of the first tobecome a county-wide service. Theservice will be hosted by BromsgroveDistrict Council on behalf of the whole ofWorcestershire. Steve Jorden has beenappointed as Head of Regulatory, joiningfrom Wychavon District Council. Leadersand Chief Executives across the Countyare working together on the programme,with Audit Services and Property Servicesalso due to transfer as a new county-wideservice. These services will be hosted byWorcester City Council and WorcestershireCounty Council, respectively.The Shared Service Board was due to meetagain on 24th June as Redditch Matters wentto press, to consider a financial summary ofsavings associated with Shared Services aswell as the Shared Services andTransformation plan.Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 5

Redditch Partnership tackleseducation and health issuesREDDITCH Partnership has had a busy fewmonths working to address issues raised bythe Government’s assessment of the area.The Comprehensive Area Assessment(CAA) process identified that moreneeded to be done to overcome thediffering levels of quality of life in Redditchcompared to those in the rest ofWorcestershire.In particular, educational attainment andhealth inequalities were flagged as issuesneeding extra attention in some areas ofRedditch.Educational AttainmentPartner organisations, head teachers andschool governors met to identify reasonsthat could be preventing young people inthe town achieving their full potential. Itwas a very productive meeting withconsensus on what issues partners couldwork with schools to address. Theseincluded:• wider marketing and promotion ofRedditch schools;• developing mentoring, education andemployment networks; and• promoting and supporting schoolGovernor recruitment anddevelopment.Redditch Partnership is working to producea strategy and action plan which will set outkey actions for partners and schools to taketogether to start to tackle these issues overthe next year.Health InequalitiesA pilot event led by the Partnership’s Healthand Well Being Group took place inWinyates in April. The Health Trainers teamand staff from the Primary Care Trust wereon hand within the Customer Service Centrein Winyates to provide health MOTs to localpeople to raise awareness of health issues.Checks were made for blood sugar andcarbon dioxide levels, and blood pressure.The event was also used to recruit localresidents as Community Health Championswho can promote positive health messagesto other members of their community.Further plans and projects are in theprocess of being worked up to help addressspecific health issues such as smoking andalcohol abuse.Recycling – sorted with your helpWITH your help the people of Redditch collectively manage to recyclethe equivalent weight of nearly 13,500 original Mini Cooper cars everyyear. Certainly more than a mini adventure.A quick reminder:The Primary Care Trust’s Health TrainersRedditch has also been very successful inreceiving funding for health projectsthrough the Health Improvement Fund.Three projects which tackle issues such asyoung people’s health, teenagepregnancy, and older people’sparticipation in sports were successful inattracting a total of £126,598 in funding.If you wish to find out more about the workof Redditch Partnership please look at ourwebsite athttp://redditch.whub.org.uk/cms/community-and-living/redditch-partnership.aspx orcontact Helen Saunders, RedditchPartnership Manager on (01527) 64252 ext3237.●●●●Place all items for recycling loose inyour green recycling bin (pleasedon’t bag items)Items for recycling should be rinsedoutDo not squash bottles or tinsKeep paper and card flatYour recycling goes to EnviroSort. Havea look at their website for moreinformation about the facility and tosee what happens there, frequentlyasked questions, and where recyclategoes. Visit www.envirosort.co.uk formore information.Electric Dreams closeto becoming realityCOUNCIL plans for electric vehicles areprogressing well and will soon see thecleansing crews in the town centrearea, the main parks at Arrow Valleyand Morton Stanley all working fromzero emission and pollution freevehicles.The latest vehicle to be put through itspaces, manufactured by GoupilIndustrie from France, proved ideal withthe added bonus that it could be usedas a tipper.Redditch Matters turned up at ArrowValley Country Park to see Dave Steele,Environmental Operational Supervisorand Ian Jones, General OperativeStreet Cleansing (pictured here, with Ianin the driver’s seat) test the latestvehicle as part of the ongoing trials.6 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Redditch enters Heart of England in BloomFOLLOWING positive feedback about the town’sflower beds and success in achieving Green FlagAwards at local parks, Redditch Borough Councilhas decided to enter the Heart of England in Bloomcompetition for 2010.Linked to Britain in Bloom - organised by the RoyalHorticultural Society - the Heart of England event willsee Redditch enter the Large Town/Small Citycategory. In fact the judging team arrives in theborough on 6th July to give theirassessment, when they willtour local sites.It’s bloomingmarvellous inRedditchThe competition now covers three key areaswhere marks are awarded over 15 categories:horticultural achievement (throughout theyear taking in design, colours and appropriateplanting at green spaces, business areas andin residential areas and communities),environmental responsibility (encouragingbiodiversity, conservation and recycling,controlling litter and dog fouling and good useof hard landscaping), and communityparticipation (engagement with schools andlocal groups, and local all-year roundcommunity projects).The Mayor will meet the judges on the6th, with officers making a 20-minute presentation in support ofthe bid. A 26-page document willalso be submitted.Numerous community groupshave helped the Council reachthis stage including the charitythe Where Next Association?,local schools, 150 plus volunteerlitter pickers working throughout thepast year, and inmates from Hewellprison.Feedback received from entering thecompetition will be invaluable in developingfuture landscaping work across the borough.Getting in theAbbey habitAS progress continueswith the Abbey Stadiumdevelopment we wantto get in the habit ofkeeping you informedof developments.Here’s the latest:Fact finding visit toCheshire – recently asmall delegation ofcouncillors and officersvisited a new leisurecentre in Winsford. Thishas been designed bythe same architectsappointed for theAbbey Stadium.Planning applicationconsidered – theplanning applicationfor the stadiumdevelopment was dueto be considered bymembers of thePlanning Committeeon 22nd June. Checkthe Council’s website orlocal papers for newsfrom the committee.SupportingindependentlivinglifelineRedditch TelecareCommunity Alarm ServicesContact: 01527 64252 ext 3316 or 3247Recognised by the Telecare Services Associationas complying with its Codes of Practice parts One and TwoRedditch Borough Council Redditch matters 7

Need help payingyour rent or Council TaxIf you are on a low income(including earnings) or receive StateBenefits you may be able to get help towardsyour rent and/or your Council Tax bill.Housing Benefit helps towards your rent andCouncil Tax Benefit helps towards your Council Tax.New on-line application form now available – visit our websiteto check potential entitlement and to make your claim.To find out more information or to apply please use the contactdetails below.Web - www.redditchbc.gov.uk - use our calculator to see if youqualifyEmail - hbenefits@redditchbc.gov.uk - request more information or aclaim formTel - (01527) 534050 - speak to an experienced Benefit OfficerIn person - call in at one of our One Stop Shops - Town Hall, Batchley,Winyates, Woodrow -please check opening times.If you are unable to wait, we can offer you analternative appointment at the Town Hall at anytime between the hours of 9am and 12 noon.Write to us at: Redditch Borough Council,Benefits Section, Town Hall, Walter StranzSquare, Redditch B98 8AHRedditchOpen Air MarketLooking for a day out with a difference?Then visit Redditch Market where youwill always find a warm welcome. Comeand pick up a bargain - from fresh flowers,fruits, vegetables and meats, pet supplies,electrical spares and haberdashery tosome of the latest fashions - it’s alwaysworth dropping by to see what’s on offer.Redditch is easy to get to by bus or trainand disabled parking is also available,with easy access for wheelchair usersaround the Market area and town centre.For further information please callDarren Hawkins on 07880 838650Market Days:Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat 9:00am - 4:00pm8 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Economic Development togo North Worcestershire wideREDDITCH, Bromsgrove and Wyre Forest Councils are workingtogether to develop a new economic regeneration anddevelopment strategy for North Worcestershire.The partners in the north of the county want to develop a fiveyearplan for regeneration. It would give the north of the countya more powerful, collective voice in promoting opportunitiesfor new investment in the area, as well as continuing topromote the local distinctiveness of each of the districts.Each Council has been asked to look at its own economic andregeneration team merging to form a single service for NorthWorcestershire. Under the proposals, the merged team wouldbe hosted by Wyre Forest. There will be further consultation withstaff and unions before changes are implemented.A Wyre Forest District Council spokeswoman said: ”Economicregeneration is a priority for each of the three district councils.We all have small teams and believe it would be beneficial tobring together our resources. A joined-up approach wouldenable resources to be focussed on key activities to make areal difference.“It would also give us a more powerful voice to have ourposition heard, for example, when bidding for grants.”The proposals follow a report by Inspira Consulting, anindependent regeneration company, commissioned by thethree councils to look into the viability of the idea. It looked atthe common economic elements between the areas, whetherthere was stakeholder support for the idea, as well as thefeatures of a joint strategy and how this would be delivered.Busy at Biz ExpoBIZ EXPO, the abbreviated name for a free Redditch BusinessExhibition held last month, proved a big hit when it was stagedat the refurbished Southcrest Manor Hotel.About 130 local businesses gathered to hear seminars onselling to the public sector, tax tips for small and medium sizedenterprises, social media in business, sustainable building andbusiness opportunities, and local attractions to visit byemployees or customers – which included the chance to havea go at laser shooting. An impressive 32 exhibitors attended theevent.The exhibition was sponsored by NEW College and wasWe like it here saysa local businessGREENLANDS Business Centre has been given the thumbsup as a place to do business by Blackberry Design.The graphic design company produces design forwebsites and print and has many client visits to its base atGreenlands on Studley Road.Managing Director, Aston Colley said:“We have been very happy here. It is important that abusiness centre gives the right impression, not only in termsof facilities but also by having friendly and professionalstaff. I am pleased to say Greenlands ticks all those boxesand more.”So, if you are looking for quality serviced offices orworkshops on short-term licences with no legal fees, freeparking and 24/7 access, or if you need a conferenceroom or small meeting room to gather together your staffor key customers and contacts, phone Gaynor Lavery on(01527) 517165 for more details.Above: A friendly welcome awaits at GreenlandsExhibitors at the event.Key representatives from the business lunch.organised by Redditch Borough Council’s EconomicDevelopment Team and the Herefordshire and WorcestershireChamber of Commerce.A working lunch saw Chamber President, Graham Biggs andCouncil Chief Executive, Kevin Dicks discuss business supportwith four of Redditch’s strategic businesses.Following the success of Biz Expo, a joint Redditch andBromsgrove business event is now being planned forNovember.Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 9

Morton Stanley FestivalWeekend of music and funMORTON Stanley Park will be alivewith music and laughter this Augustas a much-loved free festival returns.This year’s Morton Stanley Festival is aweekend affair, running on bothSaturday 21st and Sunday 22ndAugust.Organisers are hoping for a repeat oflast year’s weather, when the sunshone down on the thousands ofrevellers who came to enjoy the firsteverfestival, which had grown out ofthe Morton Stanley Fun Day.Following the successful introductionof a contemporary music mix lastyear, the festival again boasts twomusic stages. Around 42 bands willbe playing across the two-days,including up-and coming local andnational acts.And there will still be plenty of thetraditional fun which has seenfamilies flock to the park fun daysince it began in 2004. This willinclude inflatables, face painting, theland train, children’s activities and afunfair.There will also be a community zone,showcasing voluntary and communitygroups from across the borough,stalls and Council-related stands.Food will be available and organisersare hoping to be able to offer alicensed bar area.Kingfisher FM will also bebroadcasting live from the site acrossthe weekend.Karl Stokes, Redditch BoroughCouncil’s Capital Projects and GreenSpace Development Manager, who isorganising the event, said: “Wehoping to bring a Glastonbury feel tothis year’s festival and want to seeeveryone enjoying themselves in thebeautiful setting of Morton StanleyPark.“We’ve got some great bands linedup across the weekend, covering arange of genres including rock, indie,R&B, underground, acoustic and evencomedy! And we are hoping thesewill draw people to the park who maynot have visited it before.“But we’ve still retained much of thefamily activities which have made thisevent such a success in the past.There really is something for everyoneand I would urge residents to comedown and support the free event.”To get up to date information on theevent, go to the Facebook groupMorton Stanley Festival 2010.Community groupsurged to get involvedCalling all community andvoluntary groups! Morton StanleyFestival organisers want you to bepart of this year’s Community Zone.This will give you a chance topromote the work of your groupand attract new members.To sign up or to find out more,contact Sarah Kelsey on (01527)64252 ext 3527 or emailsarah.kelsey@redditchbc.gov.uk10 Redditch matters Redditch Borough Council

2O1OO4O5From fun day to festival2004 – Morton Stanley Fun Day launched2005 – Vikings take over the park2006 – Fabulous Fifties fun day2007 – Swinging Sixties in the sizzling sunshine2008 – Rain stopped play – fun day cancelled2009 – First Morton Stanley Festival with twostages of music2010 – Two-day event plannedO6O9O7Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 11

Pod proves novelsolution toovercrowdingA NOVEL approach to tackling overcrowding has meantthat a Matchborough family have been able to stay in theirmuch-loved home.A prefabricated pod extension to the rear of the EathorpeClose property has provided an extra bedroom for thePerkins family and taken them off Redditch BoroughCouncil’s waiting list.When the family moved into their three-bedroomedcouncil home in 2001, they were six in number.Since then Tony and Nicky and children Millie, Charlie, Harryand Oliver have been joined by Daisy, who is now 7-yearsold.Reluctant to leave their home, but feeling the pressures ofovercrowding, the family went on Redditch BoroughCouncil’s waiting list in search of a larger home.While waiting for a suitable property to come up, the familywere contacted by the Council’s Housing Options Team.The team had been given funding from the Department forCommunities and Local Government to become an‘Enhanced Housing Options Trailblazer’ and were keen topilot the use of a prefabricated extension to tackleovercrowding.“The call came on New Year’s Eve,” remembers Nicky. “Wewere asked if we would be interested in having theextension if our home proved suitable.“We were really excited when they said we could have it.We didn’t want to move as it is a quiet area. But we didfeel a bit of trepidation being the guinea pigs as we reallydidn’t know what to expect.”Work began on the pod back in March. Five weeks laterOliver Perkins, 17, had a room to call his own off the familykitchen.“We think it’s fantastic,“ says Nicky. “The soundproofing isgood, plus it’s well insulted and warm.”Tony has already noticed the positive effects the new roomis having on family dynamics and jokes that “now we don’thave Oliver’s friends traipsing up and down the stairs. He’seven asking if he can have his own back door now!”Back at the Council, the Housing Options Team are pleased withthe success of the first pod.“We believe that this is the first time anyone has tried thisapproach to tacking overcrowding,” says Elise Hopkins, HousingOptions Manager.“I’m delighted the Perkinses are pleased with their new room. Wehope that we can install more pods and help families stay in theirhomes.”Apply online for Housingand Council Tax BenefitRESIDENTS can now apply for Housing Benefit and CouncilTax Benefit online.Following feedback from a customer survey last year whichshowed that a large number of people would prefer to claimonline, Redditch Borough Council has worked with VictoriaForms on an electronic form.Applying online means that forms can be completedanytime and claims are received the same day they arecompleted. It also removes the need to return forms tocustomers as the system ensures all relevant parts arecompleted.Customers only have to complete the parts of the form whichare relevant to them. Any additional evidence required tocomplete a claim is based on answers on individual forms. Ifall the additional evidence is provided in one go within twoworking days of receipt of the form the Council will processthe claim within a further two working days.The claim form is available on the Council’s website, alongwith an electronic Change of Circumstances form. Visitwww.redditchbc.gov.uk/benefits to find both forms and moreinformation about claiming benefits, including a benefitcalculator.12 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Thick skin and a sense of humour requiredIT’S BEEN just over a year since the Counciltook over parking enforcement in theborough. Redditch Matters caught upwith one of its Civil Enforcement Officers(CEO) to find out what life is really like onpatrol.Four CEOs patrol the borough, sevendays a week on a shift basis. Each coversa particular area on a rotating basis sothat they get to know the whole patchand keep it free of congestion andinconsiderate parking.A CEO’s role involves reducingcongestion, improving traffic flow andsafety for both drivers and pedestrians byenforcing parking regulations. But, inreality, it can involve much more.“As we are out and about and in uniform,people tend to approach us about allsorts of things”, says CEO 400, a formerpoliceman and prison officer who hasworked in parking services for five years.“Sometimes, I’m like a tourist informationservice, telling people where they canpark and where the shops are. I also getapproached about abandoned vehicles,which I report to the Council.”Despite the attitudes of a few membersof the public, CEO 400 really enjoys hisjob.“We have received many complimentssince we started as we are ensuringparking bays and areas are used properly.For example, one disabled badge holderthanked us as he is now able to park in thedesignated disabled bays, as they are notbeing used by people whoaren’t entitled to parkthere.“We are the eyes and earsof the town. I enjoymeeting new people andhelping them. But youneed to be firm, fair andhave a thick skin and asense of humour to do thisjob.“Most people are reasonableand realise that it’s nothingpersonal. When we explainwhy we have issued a parkingticket, most people willaccept the reason andunderstand that they wereparked incorrectly.“Whatever some people think, weare not on commission and we don’thave targets. However, it is ourresponsibility to ensure that motoristsabide by the parking restrictions forthe safety of the people of Redditch.”Tara gets in the swim for Sport ReliefA REDDITCH resident with cerebral palsy took on acharity swimming challenge with the help ofRedditch Borough Council’s Home Support Team.Tara Little, aged 37, raised over £800 for SportRelief during her sponsored swim at HewellRoad Swimming Pool in March. This willincrease to over £1000 thanks to Gift Aid.Miss Little has been taking part in the HomeSupport Service’s weekly swimming sessions,which help support older and vulnerablepeople in leading healthy lifestyles.She has been working with Home SupportOfficers Heidi Arnold and Belinda Tongue, whoassist her in the pool.Tara Little in the poolwith Home SupportOfficer HeidiArnold whileBelinda Tonguewatches fromthe side.Mayor's Award forOutstanding Serviceto the CommunityAS ONE of the final acts of his year as Mayorof the Borough of Redditch, Cllr MalcolmHall launched the Mayor's Award forOutstanding Service to the Community.The award will be given by each Mayor atthe end of his or her tenure to individualswho have given outstanding service to thecommunity.The inaugural award went to Alma Bright-Clarke, who is the founder and director ofRedditch Choral Society.Redditch-born Alma founded the society in1964 following a successful career as asinger and pianist, which includedbroadcasting on the BBC. She still rehearsesand directs the society on a regular basisIn addition to her tireless work with thesociety, Alma has raised thousands ofpounds for Save The Children over the years.She is highly regarded as a teacher andmany of her pupils have gone on tobecome accomplished singers andmusicians.Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 13

The villageof Feckenham.The Council’s latestConsultation Roadshow tookplace in the village on 12th June.14 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

New wood for BrockhillTUCKED away at the back of the Brockhill estate a new wood is quietlytaking shape.Nine acres of land behind Plumstead Close are being turned into acommunity woodland by Redditch Borough Council.The land was given by Persimmon Homes as part of the planningagreement for building new homes at Brockhill.Work started on turning the open meadow into a wood in 2008. Around6,500 trees have been planted. These include oak, ash, cherry, beech,lime, field maple, beech and hazel, which have been planted in line withForestry Commission recommendations.Eagle-eyed visitors will also be able to spot the Christmas trees whichadorned the Council’s ice rink back in December 2008.The Council’s mid-week volunteers have also planted a communityorchard featuring local heritage fruit trees as part of countywide plans tokeep rare regional varieties alive.Pictured right: Gavin Boyes, Redditch Borough Council’s Landscape andArboricultural OfficerCouncil signs up tobiodiversity pledgeIN THE United Nations Year of International BiodiversityRedditch Borough Council has agreed to sign up to theWest Midlands Biodiversity Pledge.Kevin Dicks, the Council’s Chief Executive, (picturedright) and its Leader Cllr Carole Gandy signed thepledge in the presence of Colin Raven (left), Director ofthe Worcestershire Wildlife Trust and Chairman of theWest Midlands Biodiversity Partnership.The signing signals a firm commitment from the Councilto protect and enhance wildlife and the range ofhabitats within the borough. It joins 15 other localauthorities in the region in signing up to the pledge.The Council currently promotes biodiversity in a varietyof ways. These include managing important wildflowermeadows, making sure all new developmentssafeguard as much habitat and wildlife as possible,enhancing wildlife around Arrow Valley Lake by plantingnative marginal plants around its banks, protectingponds across the borough and maintaining wildflowerareas within its woodlands.It also declares important sites for wildlife as LocalNature Reserves in conjunction with Natural England.Whenever possible, the Council looks to secure fundingfrom bodies such as Defra (the Department ofEnvironment, Food and Rural Affairs) to help withmanaging land for wildlife.In March, Redditch secured Higher Level EntryEnvironmental funding for three wildlife areas, two withinArrow Valley Country Park and one within Morton StanleyPark .Redditch Borough CouncilRedditch matters 15

Meet Your CouncilloAbbeyAstwood Bank& FeckenhamBatchley & BrockhillCllr Simon ChalkConservativeTel: 550124Mob: 07990 733247Email: simon.chalk@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Diane ThomasLib DemMob: 07908 449390Email: diane.thomas@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Michael ChalkConservativeTel: 63319Email: mike.chalk@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Brandon ClaytonConservativeTel: 501797Mob: 07825 604072Email: brandon.clayton@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Jack CooksonLabourTel: 63122Email: jack.cookson@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Jinny PearceConservativeMob: 07983 456146Email: jinny.pearce@redditchbc.gov.ukChurch HillCrabbs CrossCllr Robin KingLabourTel: 456792Email: robin.king@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Bill HartnettLabourTel: 836802Email: bill.hartnett@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Roger HillConservativeMob: 07967 385074Email: roger.hill@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Andrew BrazierConservativeTel: 402048Email: andrew.brazier@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Derek TaylorConservativeMob: 07506 771200Email: derek.taylor@redditchbc.gov.ukLodge ParkMatchboroughWestCllr Andy FryLabourTel: 455646Mob: 07894 058880Email: andy.fry@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Mark ShurmerLabourTel: 455296Email: mark.shurmer@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Anita ClaytonConservativeTel: 501797Email: anita.clayton@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Juliet BrunnerConservativeMob: 07990 733054Email: juliet.brunner@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Michael BraleyConservativeTel: 543433Email: michael.braley@redditchbc.gov.uk16 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

s 2O1O/11CentralRedditchWardMapCllr Brenda QuinneyConservativeMob: 07944 963991Email: brenda.quinney@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Greg ChanceLabourTel: 456264Mob: 07795 665465Email: greg.chance@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Debbie TaylorLabourMob: 07917 072710Email: debbie.taylor@redditchbc.gov.ukGreenlandsHeadless Cross & OakenshawCllr Graham VickeryLabourTel: 544742Mob: 07506 771199Email: graham.vickery@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr William NortonConservativeTel: 542375Email: william.norton@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Wanda KingLabourTel: 456792Email: wanda.king@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Peter AndersonConservativeTel: 401367Mob: 07943 811561Email: peter.anderson@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Gay HopkinsConservativeTel: 524197Email: gay.hopkins@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Carole GandyConservativeTel: 542022Mob: 07739 431049Email: carole.gandy@redditchbc.gov.uk(Leader of the Council)WinyatesCllr Kath BanksConservativeTel: 404599Email: kath.banks@redditchbc.gov.uk(2010 -11 Mayor)Cllr Malcolm HallLib DemTel: 523985Email: malcolm.hall@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Nigel HicksLib DemTel: 523036Email: nigel.hicks@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Adam GriffinConservativeMob: 07865 481437Email: adam.griffin@redditchbc.gov.ukRedditch Borough CouncilRedditch matters 17

18 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Park play garden to open in time for summerSENSORY fun will be on theagenda for young visitors to ArrowValley Park this summer as a newplay garden opens.The new sensory garden, which hasbeen developed with the help ofPitcheroak Special School andRedditch Borough Council’s PlayRangers, was set to officially open atthe end of June.This is the first time the Council hasinvolved young users in not only thedesign but also the manufacture andinstallation of a play facility.Pupils from the Batchley school helpedto produce equipment for the gardenincluding a sensory wall reflecting theArrow Valley Lake environment, copperplates and a copper fountain.They also contributed towards a mobilewhich is being hung from the trees andhelped to choose the type of equipmentinstalled in the garden.The new sensory garden also boasts abespoke bridge and gantry. The gantry hasa see-through floor which takes users outover the water and through a tree canopy.This was developed by some of the school’swheelchair users who had never had the opportunity get into a tree canopy.Ray Cooke, Leisure Services Manager at Redditch Borough Council, said: “We’re really grateful to thePitcheroak pupils for all their help and also to Worcestershire County Council for funding the projectthrough its Playbuilder fund.”Tee-m help golf courseopen day go with a swingLANDSCAPE staff from the Council’s Crossgate depot sprucedup Pitcheroak Golf Course earlier this year to help it attract newmembers.Neil Partridge and his team worked with Worcestershire andHerefordshire County Golf Partnership, who have beenmanaging the course since last May, on improving the‘playability’ of the course.Changes to the course were made from both landscapingand golf perspectives and included redeveloping the wintertees, improving all-year-round access and playability.Work was completed in time for the club’s open day at the endof March, when the team had a display charting its work in theclubhouse.Around 50 new members signed up on the day, along with aconsiderable number joining after the event.Redditch Borough CouncilAll the fun ofthe Green FairFUN for all the family is promised at this year’s Green Fair, whichthis year celebrates ten years of Arrow Valley Countryside Centre.The annual event takes place on Sunday 11th July on StitchMeadow in Arrow Valley Park. Entry to the fair is free, as is parking.The Green Fair runs from 10am-5pm and features a wealth ofentertainment, family activities, stalls and displays. These includelaser clay pigeon shooting, archery, a climbing wall, facepainting, flyball, crafts and circus skills.Visitors can enjoy living historyfrom the 13th Century, meetowls and ferrets, enjoy livemusic and join in anactivity with the BritishCycling Association.There will also begreen crafts anddisplays, includingrecycling andenergy efficiency,and much, muchmore.To find out more aboutthe event, contact ArrowValley Countryside Centreon (01527) 464000.Redditch matters 19

Redditch - theunknown yearsby Ralph RichardsonHENRY VIII’s closure of Bordesley Abbey on17th July 1539 must have come as ahammer blow to the small adjacent villageof Redditch. Its very existence depended onwork and service for the monastery.For a brief period the inhabitants forgot theirperil and looted Bordesley. The roof tiles andtimbers, the glass, stone and sundrymetalwork vanished almost overnight intothe rude houses of Redditchians. WhileHenry had expected to receive major profitsfrom the sale of the abbey, its value was amere 70 shillings. Redditch folk meanwhilelived more comfortably. They had reducedthe walls of Bordesley to their present heightof barely above six feet.One of the drawbacks of closure was thatthe low-lying land near the abbey, no longerdrained by the talented Cistercian monks,became too wet to support settlement.Gradually, therefore, people moved uphill tosettle on the flat, well-drained area thattoday we call Church Green. They built theirtimber-framed houses all around the edgeand used the green as a safe place to keepcattle and sheep. It became a villagegreen.One thing that could not be moved uphillwas St Stephen’s Chapel at Bordesley whicheffectively became the parish church of thelittle settlement. It had been the gatehousechapel of the abbey. It survived in somestate or other until 1688 when it was restoredby one Nathaniel Mugg. HeChurch Greencommemorated his generosity with aflorid brass plate. It still exists in StStephen’s Church, the only survivingartefact from the gatehouse chapel. Thechapel was staffed by curates fromTardebigge – their lordly vicars did notdemean themselves by preaching inRedditch. One curate had 52 sermons, allrepeatable. His services and preachingswere a useful substitute for a calendar.St Stephen’s Chapel survived to 1801. Whenits state was judged too dangerous for use, itwas demolished. It was replaced in 1805 bythe rather hideous Chapel on the Green inthe centre of the town, which then had 1000inhabitants.There are almost no documents from theperiod 1539 to 1800 which tell us anythingabout Redditch. It appears on no mapsbefore 1800. When the abbey closed,Redditch may have had a population of afew hundred. In the first census of 1801, justover 1000 people lived here. It was still only avillage.One source is the record of the WorcesterQuarter Sessions, published for 1591 to 1642.Redditch, with a variety of spellings, appearsonly eleven times. No great crimes arerecorded. Those whose presence wasdemanded at Quarter Sessions do not havetheir crimes, if any, specified. Perhaps 17thcentury Redditch was particularlylawabiding,perhaps the forces of law and orderwere scarce.In 1625 John Fisher was ordered to keep hispeace towards Gord Windsor. What had hedone? John Woodyne in 1628 kept a puband was ordered not to allow unlawful playsor games and to keep good order. This mightbe asked of a publican today.Ann Sharp stole a blanket worth 6d in 1635and pleaded guilty. John Reeve, a Redditchtanner, was summoned to Worcester in 1636to be questioned about a child in Bewdley.Nothing further is recorded. In 1642 theQuarter Sessions demanded to know thenumber of Recusants, or Roman Catholics, inthe Redditch area. Recusants were, ofcourse, potential traitors. The authoritiesdiscovered 39. There might have been manymore had they visited Beoley, but they didnot. Beoley was the home of the CatholicSheldon family who were still practising theold Catholic faith in the chapel they had builton to the church at Beoley. No doubtSheldon influence ensured that no count wasever made of Catholics in Beoley in 1642 orat any other time.Two other items are recorded whichconcerned Redditch. In 1625 the villagesuffered a bad outbreak of plague. It wassufficiently bad for all the local towns andvillages to be taxed for the relief of the sickand the poor. Bromsgrove provided 12shillings per week. Alvechurch five shillings,Beoley six shillings and others similar amounts.Redditch survived. Less attractive was theaction of the Overseer for the Poor for Beoleyin 1637 who thrust a very pregnant and veryunmarried Alice Hickman over his parishboundary into Redditch. The Overseer forTardebigge (Redditch) thrust her back. Shewas batted between the two, neither beingprepared to pay for her and the child. Hadshe given birth in the middle of the bridgeover the brook marking the boundarybetween Beoley and Redditch they couldhave shared the problem.In the 250 years following the closure ofBordesley Abbey, Redditch was aninsignificant place with at least one pub, ashoemaker, a number of farm workers,several tanners, a largely ruinous church,some rather careless curates and asuspicious number of Roman Catholics.20 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Tackling HATE CRIMEHATE crime victims are being given helpand support to report incidents of abuse,bullying or harassment.The Redditch Anti Harassment Partnershipwhich has been in Redditch since 1995,encourages people to report hateincidents and has set up a number ofhate incident reporting centres wherepeople can talk to an advisor.Sarah Kelsey, Community ServicesAssistant, Redditch Borough Council said:“The reporting centres offer a place tomake victims feel more at ease and safein a familiar and less intimidatingenvironment.“Nobody should have to tolerate hate.Reporting incidents, no matter how minor,allows us to give help and support whereit is needed the most.”A hate incident is anything that can beperceived by the victim to be motivatedby prejudice or hate of someone’s race,nationality, religion, gender, sexualorientation, disability or age.Incidents can be reported in a number ofways including, visiting one of the sevenhate incident reporting centres inRedditch, online atwww.redditchbc.gov.uk or through thepolice’s True Vision website, www.reportit.org.uk.The Hate Crime Partnership is made upof local organisations includingRedditch Borough Council, the policeand housing associations.Hate Incident ReportingCentresRedditch Town Hall,(01527) 534123.Victim Support, EcumenicalCentre, (01527) 66462Sure Start Family Centres,0800 0858106Citizens Advice Bureau, CannonNewton House, Kingfisher Centre,0844 4150100Sandycroft, West Avenue,Smallwood, (01527) 595135.Residents urged toreport domestic abuse Working withWITH summer just around the corner,many people in Redditch are turning theirthoughts to holidays and family breaks.For the majority of people such eventsare happy times but, according to theWorcestershire Forum Against DomesticAbuse, during these times violence in thehome can escalate.Ros Walker, Strategic Co-ordinator for TheForum explained: “Traditionally, domesticabuse is more prevalent during times ofthe year when occasions mark ourannual calendar.Many women and even men continue toendure domestic abuse for the sake ofkeeping their families together at suchtimes. We urge victims of domesticabuse not to suffer in silence but to callour helpline where they will be listened toand advised confidentially.“Nationally, domestic abuse is a crimethat is widely unreported andWorcestershire is no exception. Domesticabuse is not an inevitable part of life, butmany men, women and children areunderstandably worried about thepossible consequences of speaking out.However, the support available can maketheir lives so much better.”In an emergency, residents in Redditchshould phone 999 but abuse can alsobe reported in confidence by callingthe County Domestic AbuseHelpline 0800 980 3331.For more information onWorcestershire Forum AgainstDomestic Abuse visit theirwebsite atwww.worcestershire.gov.uk/wfada.the communityRESIDENTS can get involved andhave their say on a range of issuessurrounding equality and diversityby taking part in the CommunityForum.The group was set up in January2009 with the aim of developingthe relationship between RedditchBorough Council, the communityand voluntary groups.As well as regular meetings, theCommunity Forum also holds focusgroups specifically on race andreligion, gender and sexualorientation, and disability and age.New members are welcome toattend the Community Forum andits sub groups by contacting SarahKelsey on (01527) 64252 ext 3527or by email onsarah.kelsey@redditchbc.gov.uk.The next community forum will takeplace on 3rd August at 6pm in theTown Hall.Redditch matters 21

Free fun attheparkThe new Activ8 summer programme hasnow been put together with a number offun activities for all ages including a Kid’sCamp, a Gymnastics Week, and tripsaway.For the younger children, there will alsobe Tiny Tots activities including junkmodeling and soft play.Trips out this year include to WestMidlands Safari Park, Red Point ClimbingCentre and Waterworld. There will alsobe tennis, badminton, cheerleading,martial arts and dodgeball, as well asteenage football leagues, for youngpeople to choose from.Get activethis summerYOUNGSTERS can keep themselves busy this summer with a widerange of activities being organised by Redditch Borough Council.Throughout the summer holidaysyoungsters can also take part in a rangeof multi-sport or arts and craft activitiesduring the popular Summer Sizzlessessions at Birchensale Middle School,Arrow Vale and Kingsley Sports Centres.Matt Hartles, Sports DevelopmentOfficer, said: “The summer holiday is agreat opportunity for young people toget out of the house and try somethingnew. We have tried to design theprogramme to cater for all ages so wehope there will be something foreveryone this summer.”For more information or to be put on thebrochure mailing list contact the SportDevelopment Unit on (01527) 64676.ARROW Valley Park will be the placeto be for fun this August whenRedditch Borough Councilcelebrates National Playday 2010.The Council will be holding a numberof free activities in the park to markthe national campaign, which aimsto encourage children and youngpeople to go out and play.This is the third time the authority hasbecome involved in the event, whichwill be taking place on 4th Augustbetween 3pm and 6.30pm with thetheme of Our Place.Funding for the event has comefrom the Council’s Play RangersService as well as Redditch’s countycouncillors.22 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 23

Focus onBatchleyand BrockhillBATCHLEY and Brockhill residents arekeeping themselves busy by gettinginvolved in a number of projects, eventsand activities taking place throughoutthe year.And with groups, organisations andRedditch Borough Council helping toback many new and exciting initiatives,community spirit is booming in this wardon the edge of the town centre.One group that is helping to raisecommunity spirit on a daily basis isBatchley Support Group, which wasrecently visited by the Countess ofWessex.Among many of the group’s projects area weekly youth club, a communityallotment and drop-in or advice sessionsfor residents of all ages.The group is also working with NewCollege to run Batchley Café in PoplarRoad. The café provides somewhere forresidents to eat, drink and socialise whilealso giving people with learningdifficulties the opportunity to learn basiccatering skills and gain a qualification.Batchley Support Group is also workingwith young people between the ages of16 and 25 as part of the nationalscheme, Vinvolved.As part of the project, participantsget involved inteam building,events, andintergenerationalwork. They haverecentlycompleted aphotographyproject witholder membersof thecommunity,which will lookat how thearea haschangedover theyears. This isdue to bedisplayed inRedditch Library.Rebecca Debenham, from BatchleySupport Group, said: “The group is reallyimportant. It brings the community togetherand gives people access to opportunitiesthey would not normally have.The Countess ofWessex on herrecent visit toBatchley.Photo courtesyof BatchleySupport GroupBatchley Cafe with l-r Elizabeth Groves, PeterLynch, Emma Bray, Chris Ray and Lucy RyanWard Councillors for Batchley & BrockhillCllr Jack CooksonLabourTel: 63122Email: jack.cookson@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Jinny PearceConservativeMob: 07983 456146Email: jinny.pearce@redditchbc.gov.ukCllr Brenda QuinneyConservativeMob: 07944 963991Email: brenda.quinney@redditchbc.gov.uk24 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

It also encourages people to exploredifferent activities.”The group is now planning a playscheme in August and this year’sannual summer event, Cool by thePool, which will take place on 17th July.In the autumn, Batchley Support Groupwill also be working on a project tohelp tackle the issue of domesticabuse.Sure Start’s Cherry Trees ChildrenCentre is also based in Batchley at theFirst School and has a number ofevents for people to get involved in.There is Messy Play, Stay and Play andBaby Time as well as antenatal clinicsand courses such as jewellery making,IT and make-up. The Centre also holdsa Family Support Drop-in as well as aDad’s group on a Saturday morning.For older residents, theCouncil-run St David’sHouse holds a dailyluncheon club whereover-65s can get amain meal and adessert for £3.80 andunder-65s can eat for£5.On Mondays and Tuesdays peoplecan also join in with Bingo between2pm and 4pm and on Wednesdaysthere is a session of gentle exercise.Batchley’s bus stop has also beengiven its own piece of art work, as partof an ongoing Council project tobrighten up the borough’s shelters. Thepiece, which shows Batchley Pond, hasbeen put together by pupils and isfunded by the Redditch CommunitySafety Partnership.Batchley Community CentreFor more informationabout Batchley Support Group visitwww.batchleysgroup.co.uk, or call(01527) 457291. Places for theluncheon club must be booked bycalling St David’s on (01527) 584769.St David’s Luncheon ClubRedditch Borough CouncilSt David’s Luncheon ClubRedditch matters 25

Take a walkin RedditchSUMMER is a great time to get out in the fresh air,have a picnic and see some of the wildlifearound Redditch.And to help inspire us to get out inthe summer air, Arrow ValleyCountryside Centre has a numberof walks designed to help peoplelearn more about the area.The Meadows TrailStart: Arrow Valley Countryside CentreLength: 1 ½ miles, 1 hourTerrain: Flat tarmac surfaces and grassfields. The walk can be wet and muddyafter heavy rain.432167Follow the orange coloured arrows andyou won’t get lost. Along the way look forbutterflies such as Meadow Browns,Peacocks and Speckled Wood.1 On the bank to the left is a naturalsewage system. Made from willow,the system filters out waste productsfrom the Countryside Centreleaving clean water. This is a totallyenvironmentally responsible way ofdisposing of waste, without the useof chemicals.2 Procter’s Barn Meadow. Over 100species of wildflower and grasseshave been found here, includingRagged Robin, Knapweed, and OxeyeDaisy. The meadow is cut usingtraditional managementtechniques, which are vital tomaintain their importance forwildlife. Over the last 50 years, 97per cent of traditional wildflowermeadows have been lost from ourcountryside, making protection allthe more important.3 Nut Coppice. This recently plantedwoodland known as Nut Coppice,is so called because it is plantedwith Hazel and other nut-bearingfruit trees.4 Along this path, look out for veteranOak trees. They are well over 300years old and are home to over1,000 species of plant and animal.5 Spiders WebMeadows. Thismeadow is alsomanaged for wildlife andhas many plant speciesincluding Knapweed, Ox-eye Daisy,Birdsfoot Trefoil, as well as a variety ofgrasses.6 Bluebell Wood. Bluebell Woodcontains a mixture of trees andshrubs in what is only one of two trulynatural woodlands in Arrow ValleyCountry Park. The rest were plantedin the 1960s. Natural woodlands canbe recognised by the presence ofBluebells in the spring, a commonplant in Britain but rare over the restof Europe.7 The area to the right is known as thePeace Garden. Why not take fiveminutes to reflect on your walk,before returning to the CountrysideCentre for some well-earnedrefreshments?526 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council

Lodge Poolin the Lodge Park area of Redditch,less than two miles from the town centre.Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 27

Exciting times behind the scenesat Redditch’s history hotspotBehind the scenes at ForgeMill Needle Museum, adedicated team of staff andvolunteers are discoveringmore about what the historyhotspottruly has to offer andkeeping the site’s past alive.As well as the normal mix of activitiesand events for the public, the Councilrunmuseum has a number of excitingprojects throughout the year, which aimto help improve the site for visitors.Work is currently taking place to repairand restore the remains of BordesleyAbbey, with the help of a grant fromNatural England.As part of the early stages of the project,experts such as stone masons,archaeologists and architects arecurrently assessing the site to see whatwork should be carried out.A small excavation, to aid therestoration work, will also be taking placeat the former medieval CistercianAbbey, when new and exciting findsmay be discovered.During the summer, information boards,including an audio panel, are alsogoing to be installed to help visitorsunderstand more about the history ofthe site.Jo-Ann Gloger, Keeper of Collections,28 Redditch matters Redditch Borough Council

said: “This is an exciting project for theAbbey site, which will help visitorsunderstand some of the history behind itas well as improve the area as a whole.”A new project, which is being expanded, isthe museum’s work with schools. Childrenhave recently been finding out moreabout the life of a 19th century woman aspart of a schools workshop around the1871 census. Two schools have alreadytaken part in the project and museumstaff aim to take the workshop to moreschools in the coming months.Other projects taking place includetraining volunteers to give tours around theAbbey ruins and recent interactive tours bythe theatre group Indigo Arts, have beenturned into avideo which will be playedin the museum.Museum staff have also been spendingtime with people researching the historyof the area or tracing their family trees.With archives as well as the museum’sdisplays to use, people come from asfar as America, Australia and SouthAfrica to learn more about the site’sfascinating past.Debbie Lakeman, the museum’sEducation Officer, said: “Forge Mill has afascinating history and a lot of work iscarried out behind the scenes to makesure people can learn more about thispart of Redditch’s proud history.”WINWin afamilyticket tothe LittleBig ClubBARNEY, Bob the Builder,Angelina Ballerina andothers will be entertainingyoungsters at the PalaceTheatre as part of The LittleBig Club Live in Concert on27th July.And Redditch Matters isgiving away a family ticketto the 3.30pm performanceto one lucky winner.For a chance of winninganswer this question:Q: What is the name ofthe yellow digger inBob the Builder?Send your answer along withyour name, address anddaytime telephone numberto:Redditch Matters,Palace Theatre Competition,Communications Team,Redditch Borough Council,Town Hall,Walter Stranz Square,Redditch B98 8AHClosing date9th July 2010.* The winner of the lastRedditch Matters LeisureCompetition was AnnWardman from HeadlessCross.Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 29

What’s onSelected events for July, August and SeptemberForge Mill Needle Museum(01527) 62509www.forgemill.org.ukMeasure for Measure – Outdoor Theatre. 3rdand 4th July, 6pm. Enjoy some Shakespeareantheatre in the picturesque setting of the ForgeMill grounds. Please bring your own seating. £5in advance, £7 on the door.Painted Skye: Workshop with Janice Gunner.17th July, 10am to 4pm. £25.National Archaeology Day. 18th July, 11amto 4pm. A day of fun, archaeology-themedactivities for all the family! Try your hand atarchery using longbows to fireat targets and playsome medievalgames. Find outmore about thehistory ofBordesley Abbeywith a freeguided tour.Have a go atexcavating, sortingand recording yourfinds and try out one ofour special backpacksfor buddingarchaeologists. There willalso be medieval foodtasting and themedchildren's craftactivities. Adults£2, childrenfree.Dinosaur Day. 8th August, 11am to 4pm.Celebrate our exciting exhibition, The Ballad ofBig Al, with a special Dinosaur Day at Forge Mill.Events include: Performances of 'Bone Idol' bythe Avonmill Players - a fast, fun, fact-filledguide to dinosaurs, meet a fossil expert, dig forfossils, dinosaur craft, and dino face painting.Museum entry applies, children free.Illuminated Icons: Workshop with AngieHughes. 14th August, 10am to 4pm. Anotherpopular workshop where you will learn how tolayer velvet, metallic sweetie foils, organza andmachine embroidery to create a shimmeringancient looking icon to frame. £25.Wheelwright Display. 14th and 15th August,11am to 4pm. A display by the Guild of ModelWheelwrights set in the beautiful grounds ofForge Mill Museum. Free entry.30 Redditch mattersThemed Holiday Activities.16th to 20th August, 10amto 3pm. Suitable for ageseight to 12. Booking inadvance is essential.The Importance of BeingEarnest. 27th and 28th August, 7.30pm. Outdoorperformance of this classic comedy performedby the Avonmill Players and directed by RobertWilkes.Tickets can be purchased in advance.Adults £6, children £4.Stitching Images: Workshop with Alice Kettle.11th or 18th September, 10am to 4pm. £30.Farm Fun Day. 12th September, 11am to 4pm.Come along to Forge Mill's fabulous farm funday. Adults £2, children £1, family £5. Includesentry into the museum.Arrow Valley Countryside Centre(01527) 464000www.redditchbc.gov.ukGreen Fair. 11th July, 10am to 5pm. Visitthe Countryside Centre to enjoy anextravaganza of entertainment, familyactivities, stalls anddisplays.SummerActivityweeks.2nd to6thAugustand 9thto 13thAugust.Book inadvance tohave fun on oursummer activities.Available as a full week oras a one day activity. The week includes,Woodland Wonder, Fishy Fun and Damsels andDragons.Scarecrow Making Day. 25th to 26th August,11am to 3pm. Bring some old clothes to dropinto our scarecrow making activity. Make ascarecrow to enter into our competition to bejudged by the Mayor on Scarecrow Day BankHoliday Monday. Costs £2.50 per scarecrow formaterials. No booking required.Scarecrow Day. 30th August, 10am to 4pm.Come and meet a whole host of scarecrowcharacters. Build one yourself for the competitionto be judged by the Mayor.Felt Making Workshop, Felt Jewellery Making.5th September, 10.30am to12noon. £15including materials. Book in advance.Crafty Fun. 25th September, 10.30am to12noon. For ages six to 12. Book in advance. £4.Family Learning Activity -Simple Seeds. 26thSeptember, drop inbetween 11am to 4pm.Create a mosaic seed tile.Coracle course. 18th and19th September. Find out about traditional rivercraft and build one on this two day course.£150 including materials, book in advance.Palace Theatre(01527) 65203www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.ukThe Stage Door Dance Academy presents:Dance Extravaganza. 9th July, 7.15pm. TheStage Door Dance Academy is delighted toreturn to the Palace Theatre with another showstoppingproduction. With an abundance oftalent, Dance Extravaganza is an exciting andprofessional show, certain to entertain you.Tickets £7, £8 or family tickets £28.The Palace Youth Theatre present BugsyMalone. 15th to 17th July, 7.15pm andSaturday Matinee 2.15pm. Tickets £7.50, £10or family tickets £30.Hit Entertainment and Premier Productionspresents: The Little Big Club Live in Concert.27th July, 1pm and 3.30pm. Bringing togetherkid’s favourite characters live on stage forthe first time in a 90-minute stage show. Theline up in this all new show includes Barney,Bob the Builder, Angelina Ballerina, Pingu,Fifi and the Flowertots and Fireman Sam.Tickets £10.50, £12 or family ticket £40.Elevenses and Everything Stops for Tea.28th July, 10.30am and 2.30pm.With Nathan Turner. An all round entertainersinging songs from the shows to rock and rolland smooth Sinatra classics. Join us everymonth for tea and cake plus some liveentertainment in the Bar Lounge. Each monthyou will be greeted, provided with elevensesand entertained with a selection of music andsing-a-long songs. So join in the fun. Booking isessential as numbers are limited. Tickets £5.Sally Morgan - Psychic Sally On The Road.25th September, 7.30pm.Fresh from her new TV series on Living TV, Britain’sbest loved celebrity psychic, Sally Morgan visitsRedditchfor the firsttime aspart of her2010nationaltheatretour. Ticketsall seats£27.Redditch Borough Council

Redditch Borough Council Redditch matters 31

Contacting the CouncilWebsitewww.redditchbc.gov.ukEmail: worcestershirehub@redditchbc.gov.ukBy phoneCustomer Service Centre (part of the Worcestershire Hub) - (01527) 534123 for domestic refuse, repairs,highways, disabled persons’ parking badges.All other enquiries (01527) 64252 (Mon-Thurs 9am-5.30pm. Fri 9am - 5pm)Emergency out of hours (01527) 67666 Minicom 595528 Fax (01527) 65216In personFour Customer Service Centres (part of the Worcestershire Hub)Town Hall Customer Service Centre, Town Hall, Walter Stranz Square, Redditch B98 8AHOpen: Mon, Tues and Thurs 9am-5.30pm. Wed 10am-5.30pm. Fri 9am-5pm. Sat 9am-12pm.Batchley Customer Service Centre, Batchley Shopping Centre, 183 Batchley Rd, Batchley, Redditch B97 6JBWoodrow Customer Service Centre, Woodrow Shopping Centre, Studley Road, Redditch B98 6RYWinyates Customer Service Centre, Unit 3, Winyates Centre, Redditch B98 0NR(For opening times visit the website as above or phone (01527) 534123Copies of Council publications can be made available inlarge print, Braille and audio cassette or if you would likehelp with translation into another language please call(01527) 64252 ext 3002Find us on Facebook and TwitterRedditch Borough Council now has its own Facebookand Twitter pages.Find us on Facebook as Redditch Borough Council andon Twitter as RedditchMatters.Putting our customers firstThere’s a new name for One Stop Shops.They are now calledCustomer Service Centres.Four centres to help you find outmore about our services.From information and advice onbenefits and housing toeverything from refuse collectionto Blue Badge passes - and allthat’s in between.Contact us (as above) and wewill be happy to help you.Sports andleisure venuesArrow Valley Countryside CentreBattens Drive, South Moons Moat,Redditch B98 0LJTel: (01527) 464000email: avcc@redditchbc.gov.ukForge Mill Needle Museum &Bordesley Abbey Visitor CentreNeedle Mill Lane, Riverside,Redditch B98 8HYTel: (01527) 62509email: museum@redditchbc.gov.ukPalace TheatreAlcester Street, Redditch B98 8AEBookings: (01527) 65203Administration: (01527) 61544Youth Theatre: (01527) 68484Abbey Stadium Sports CentreBirmingham Road, RedditchB97 6EJTel: (01527) 60206email:keith.omeally@redditchbc.gov.ukArrow Vale Sports andLeisure CentreGreen Sward Lane, Matchborough,Redditch B98 OENTel: (01527) 500010email:scott.brinkworth@redditchbc.gov.ukHewell Road Swimming PoolHewell Road, Redditch, B97 6BATel: (01527) 64189email:scott.brinkworth@redditchbc.gov.ukKingsley Sports CentreOff Woodrow Drive, Woodrow,Redditch B98 7UHTel: (01527) 529724email:richard.boyd@redditchbc.gov.ukPitcheroak Golf CoursePlymouth Road, Redditch B97 4PBTel: (01527) 541054Sports and Leisure(General Enquiries)Tel: (01527) 64252email:dave.wheeler@redditchbc.gov.ukor ray.cooke@redditchbc.gov.ukTourist Information CentrePalace Theatre, Alcester Street,Redditch B98 8AETel: (01527) 60806email:info.centre@redditchbc.gov.uk32 Redditch mattersRedditch Borough Council