p01 cover.qxd - Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council

Transformation underwayIf you've been to The Malls recently you willhave noticed things are changing. Deepwithin the maze of scaffolding The Mallstransformation is in full swing.Wates Construction Ltd moved on sitein August to give the outdated shoppingcentre a major facelift and already changesare underway.As shops remain open builders are busydelivering the exciting plans in time for nextsummer's completion date.Among these changes are the removal ofthe existing canopies and the installation of aclear roof canopy that protects the centrefrom bad weather, but still allows natural lightand air to circulate.The first floor facade will be re-clad andinsulated and new lighting will also beinstalled. New toilets will be constructedadjacent to the lift in Castle Square andwill include a ‘Changing Places’ facility,which is a specialist toilet for peoplewith disabilities.Cabinet ViewCabinet member for Finance andProperty Cllr James Lewin said:“Despite tough times we areinvesting in The Malls to bringjobs and future prosperity.While we have put plans in place tominimise disruption and disturbanceto our residents, shoppers and shoptenants, there will inevitably be somedegree of nuisance because theshopping centre must remainopen throughout the works. I ask thatpeople please bear with us during theworks and contact the numbers listedif they have any problems.“Saunders ArchitectsIn addition, the whole shopping centre willbe repaved and new seating installed.The biggest transformation will be outsidealong Alencon Link where a new landmarkgateway entrance to The Malls will becreated, along with paving and landscapingimprovements. This will give a great firstimpression of the town when people arrivefrom the railway station.As part of the works a programme of highwayimprovements will also be madeto Alencon Link including:• carriageway and footway improvementson the southern side of Alencon Linkto improve access• providing a three bus lay-by withraised kerbsThese works will be managed by theborough council on behalf of HampshireCounty Council.For more information aboutThe Malls redevelopment seewww.themallsbasingstoke.co.ukThe mad dash back to the car before yourticket runs out will now be a thing of thepast in The Malls car park.The old pay and display machines havebeen replaced with a new pay on footsystem with entry and exit barriers.The easier and more convenient parkingsystem has been introduced to coincidewith the refurbishment of The Malls. Peoplewishing to park will be issued a ticket onarrival and will need to pay the amountrequired at one of the payment machines tovalidate their ticket for exit before leaving.Those people using the car park in theevening, after 6pm, can choose to pay theset fee and have their ticket validated atanytime on or after arrival to help easecongestion following large events at TheAnvil, Haymarket or other events aroundthe town centre.Blue badge holders, who have registered inadvance for concessionary parking, cangain free entry and exit through an automaticnumber plate recognition system whichThe Malls’ milestones• September to November –demolition of the canopies at OldBasing Mall and Castle Square• September to end of November –scaffolding and formation of crash deck• October to June – Alencon Linkentrance works• October to April – Construction oftoilets and baby changing facilities• September to April – Construction ofroof to Old Basing Mall/Castle Square• January to May – Facade treatmentto 1st floor Old Basing Mall andCastle Square• April to June – Paving and streetfurniture to all areasKeeping in contactWates’ site office: 01256 471431Wates’ emergency and out of hours:01274 387374Basingstoke and Deane BoroughCouncil: 01256 844844Just the ticket!matches the vehicle to the blue badge.Family and friends or organisations, such asNeighbourcare, that provide transport forblue badge holders in vehicles that have notbeen pre-registered, will still be able to usethe car park for free. They can eitherregister on the day or after their visit but theblue badge holder will need to present theirbadge when requested by the car parkingmanagement staff. Blue badge holderswishing to register can pick up a form fromthe lifts in The Malls or request one from thecouncil offices or online atwww.themallsbasingstoke.comBasingstoke & Deane Today 5

At your click and callYou need access to your services and information about your councilin the way that you want and at a time that’s convenient to you.That’s why we are working to extend thenumber of services that are available online– and even through applications on yourmobile. But don’t worry if you would prefer tocall us or come to the council offices, as weare making sure that our services areimproved on the phone and face-to-face too.‘Appy’ parkersA new local rate telephone number - 0125626 99 88 - and a web app make paying forparking in Basingstoke town centre councilruncar parks even easier. Drivers are able touse their mobile phone to register and activatetheir parking using either the low rate numberor the Parkmobile web app. By texting ‘ParkURL’to 66644 to get the link, the web app serviceallows users to monitor how much time theyhave left on their parking and, if necessary, buymore parking time. For more information visitwww.parkmobile.com. This service does notinclude The Malls’ car park which now uses apay on foot system as detailed on page 5.6 Basingstoke & Deane TodayDo it onlineLike to do your shopping in the earlyhours online? Did you know you canpay your council tax bill, check out aplanning application or let us know thatyour bin was missed at the same time?These are three of the services that youcan access 24 hours a day via ourwebsite at www.basingstoke.gov.uk.You can also sign up for the greengarden waste service or report graffiti.We are working to introduce moreservices online and will keep youupdated on the progress.Save time withMy BasingstokeSick of filling in forms with the sameinformation? My Basingstoke, the securearea of the council’s website, allows youto register all of your details so that youonly have to log in and the system willautomatically fill in your details when

We’re tweeting!You can now follow the latest service updates and news fromthe council on Twitter Go to @twitter.com/BasingstokeGovSave timedo it onlineAn at a glance guide to services you cannow access via the website atwww.basingstoke.gov.uk:• council tax• garden waste collection service• parking fines• donate to the Mayor’s charity• buy tickets for some of the Mayor’scharity eventsyou are filling in an online form.My Basingstoke will also use yourpostcode to give you personalisedinformation about facilities and servicesin your area, for example what day yourbins will be collected. Find out more atwww.basingstoke.gov.uk/mybasingstoke.PetitionsIf you take the time to organise a wellsupportedpetition, the least we can dois take the time to consider it properly.A new scheme setting out how thecouncil responds to paper petitions hasnow been published and we’re workingon a system to allow you to submite-petitions. Find out more atwww.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/petitionsMinding our peaksand queues!A new system has been introduced tohelp reduce queuing times for visitorsto the council. The new ticket systemallows the council to log waiting times.Since this went live on 24 June staff haveserved over 30,000 visitors with an averagequeue time of just under six minutes. Bylogging waiting times we can work onimproving our service to customers andfurther reducing this wait.• benefit forms• housing register• job vacancies• planning permission• garden composter• building notice• local land charges – personal search• bulky waste collection• flytipping• graffiti• litter• missed bin collectionAlternatively you can emailcustomer.service@basingstoke.gov.ukor call 01245 844844.Basingstoke & Deane Today 7

New homes for your area– the big questionsWhere should new homes be built in yourarea? That’s the big question YOU and yourcommunity need to help answer.There is no longer a regional housing targetthat the borough needs to meet after theSouth East Plan was abolished, taking with itthe requirement to build 945 homes a year.So that means it is now down to us to makethese local decisions for our local area.But this doesn’t mean that we can justsay that we won’t build any more houses.For example, we may need more homesfor young people that have grown up inborough or older people that want to stayhere and downsize after their families haveflown the nest.The vision for our future, agreed by the counciland its partners, predicts that we willbe thriving and prosperous, attractingemployers and supporting newbusinesses. That means we need homesso that people can afford to live here andnot commute in and out everyday makingcongestion worse.Between now and Friday 15 January 2011,Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council ishoping to hear what residents and localcommunities think about new homes thatshould be planned for the borough. We areencouraging ward councillors, parish andtown councils, community groups and youto get involved in the debate.Cabinet ViewCabinet member for Planning andInfrastructure Cllr Rob Golding said:“This is a real chance for localpeople to have their say aboutwhat is right for their area. We mustdecide what is a reasonable number ofnew homes and where they should goacross the borough. If we don’t, then weare leaving the decisions to developersthrough ‘planning on appeal’. Don’t waituntil new homes are proposed and saythey are in the wrong place – get involvedin the debate about how many homesare needed in your area andwhere they should be built.“Figuring out our future housingOver the past 10 years the boroughhas seen an average of 900 newhomes built every year. Now regionaltargets have gone, the council is goingback to the drawing board to look againat what is the right figure for the numberof new homes to be built over the next20 years. We want to find out what levelyou think is too much, not enough orabout right for the future.How will decisions onhousing sites be made?Basingstoke and Deane BoroughCouncil will use the feedback fromlocal communities and partners, such ascolleges, police, health providers and localbusinesses, together with a wealth of otherevidence, to come to a conclusion on theright level of housing and will start puttingtogether proposals for possible housingdevelopment sites in the borough. Thisinformation will be published in autumn2011 for public consultation as part of adocument called the ’core strategy’.This will be the blueprint for developmentin the borough over the next 20 years,including where homes, employment sites,shops, leisure and community facilitiesare built.This blueprint will then have to be testedby an independent planning inspector at apublic inquiry. The inspector will have todecide if the core strategy is ‘sound’ – thismeans is it the best plan for the area, takinginto consideration a number of factors.These include whether the number ofhomes proposed meets local needs andsupports the local economy. They alsoinclude whether the locations proposedfor development are the best choice andhave taken into account environmentalconstraints to building in the area and thatthe right amount and type of ‘infrastructure’will be available to support the newdevelopment when it is built.Once the core strategy has finallybeen approved by the council, it will beused to decide whether developmentsshould be given planning permission tobe built.8 Basingstoke & Deane Today

ack on trackhose going green in theand achieve goals.sportsbiteswalkingGet active monthSports clubs and leisure facilities tookthe opportunity throughout July toencourage more people to become moreactive as part of Get Active Month. Over420 people tried new sports and activitiesfor free, including sports, gym classesand swimming.Olympic open weekendPeople had the opportunity to try three newsports for free during an event at Queen Mary’sSports Centre. The open weekend was oneof hundreds of events taking place across theUK to celebrate the countdown to the Olympicand Paralympic Games in London 2012.It saw local sports clubs working together toencourage people to try different sports.Get active whileconserving our boroughA new leaflet detailing organised conservationevents across the borough is now available.There are many voluntary conservationgroups supporting our local environment andwildlife and they would love to hear from anyresidents that would like to get involved. Formore information or for a copy of the leaflet visitwww.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/conservation orcall Karen Evans-Prosser on 01256 845649.Getting in the Olympic spiritIf you are interested in getting involved inactivities to celebrate the London 2012Olympic and Paralympic Games,please call 01256 844844 or emailgoingforgold@basingstoke.gov.uk.Medals and awardscelebrated at youth eventYoung sports people in the boroughcelebrated medals and awards at theHampshire Youth Games. Over 120young people from the borough competedin the Youth Games and the ParallelGames held over two days. Sportsincluded swimming, squash, canoeing,football, new age kurling, athletics,gymnastics and hockey.For the first time ever, the area entered avisually impaired team in the athleticscompetition in the Parallel Games, for pupilswith physical or learning disabilities, andended up scooping a silver medal!Weekly walks programmeDAY/TIME WHERE TO MEET/ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONMonday 11am Eastrop Park BoathouseChoice of two or three walks including a walk suitable for beginnersTuesday 11.30am Basing Wood (behind Popley Fields Community Centre)Call 01962 797079 to book a placeEvery Wednesday Gill Nethercott Centre, Whitchurch10amA choice of two walks with refreshments afterwards1st Wednesday of The Square in Kingsclerethe month 10.30am A walk ideal for beginnersWednesday 11am Basingstoke Aquadrome at the Leisure ParkRefreshments afterwardsWednesday 7pm Fast evening walk from various locations Visitwww.basingstokehealthwalks.org or call 01256 845574 for starting placeThursday 11am The Walled Garden at Down Grange off Pack LaneRefreshments afterwardsFriday 11am Shakespeare Medical Centre in Popley Refreshments afterwards1st and 3rd Friday Tadley Library,of the month 1.30pm Tadley Pool Refreshments afterwardsWeekends, Various Visitoccasional www.basingstokehealthwalks.org or call 01256 845574 for further detailsActivitieson track forBeggarwood ParkLocal residents and Beggarwood Parkusers have given their views on proposalsfor a play area and bike track as part ofnew facilities and improvements atthe park.A drop-in session was held at HatchWarren Community Centre in Septemberas the first chance to see detailed designsthat will bring the masterplan for the futureof the park to life.Funding has been set aside for theimprovements over the next three years.For more information see www.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/beggarwoodparkBasingstoke & Deane Today 21

Wishing youa safer new yearMaking you feel safer is top priority for the combined forcefighting crime and tackling anti-social behaviour in your area.There was a 14% drop in crime in theborough in 2009/10, with significantreductions in criminal damage, burglary,vehicle crime and rowdy and inconsideratebehaviour.A survey also showed that 88% of peoplefelt safe outside their home after dark. ButBasingstoke and Deane Community SafetyForum, which brings together emergencyservices, councils and other public andvoluntary organisations to tackle crime andanti-social behaviour, is keen to see evenbetter results from its partnership worknext year.Based on crime and anti-socialbehaviour figures, as well as feedbackfrom the public and other information,the priorities are:• a no tolerance approach to violentcrime, including assaults, robberyand domestic abuse• tackling anti-social behaviour byworking with the community and• reducing the fear of crime thatcan blight lives despite the boroughbeing a relatively low crime area.More roadshows are planned after the forum joined forces to stop trouble for those drowning theirWorld Cup woesBuilding on the success of work to tackleproblems in communities in partnership, theforum has a plan of activities andcampaigns for the coming year.Two forum events are planned for thecoming weeks, following successfulpartnership work to highlight excessivealcohol dangers with World Cup watchers.On Thursday 25 November, there will be astall in Market Place, Basingstoke forWhite Ribbon Day, raising awareness ofthe support services available to helpwomen suffering violence. On Tuesday7 December the Community SafetyChristmas Campaign road show will bein Basingstoke town centre giving tips toshoppers on everything from keeping theirpresents safe to keeping an eye on theirdrinking over the festive season.Angels give a helping handThe holiday season will soon be upon usand with that comes Christmas partiesand nights out. If you are out inBasingstoke town centre on a Friday orSaturday in December you may notice afew ‘Christmas angels’ helping ensure thatyou have a safe night out. The PastorPatrol run by the Alliance of BasingstokeChurches will be out in force providing ahelping hand to festive revellers.People like to party at Christmas, but ifyou don’t plan things right, you run the riskof certain dangers. If you’re going out,arrange your return home before youleave. Pre-order a taxi or come home withsomeone you know. Don’t leave without afully charged mobile and if you travelalone, let at least one person know whereyou’re going to be and when you plan tobe home.And for those planning to celebrate athome, remember if you’re going tothrow a big party or make a lot of noiselet your neighbours knowbeforehand.The council and the police work togetherto keep anti-social behaviour as low aspossible. Call the police’s non emergencynumber 101 to report any issues.22 Basingstoke & Deane Today

Calling time onalcohol-fuelled crime!A campaign has been launched inBasingstoke town centre to crack down onalcohol-fuelled violent crime.The partnership initiative, called OperationDrinksafe, follows a successful campaign ofthe same name that was run in Portsmouthtwo years ago. By working closely with thecouncil, Festival Place, licensees and otherpartners, the campaign aims to reduceincidents of violent crime and disorder thathappen when people are on a night out inthe town centre and reduce excessive andirresponsible alcohol consumption.Basingstoke and Deane DistrictCommander, Chief Inspector AndyBottomley, said: "We've been verysuccessful in reducing crime in the boroughover the last year but have not seen achange in violence offences. Our analysisshows us that a third of violence offencesoccur outside licensed premises and that inalmost two thirds of all incidents, offendersare affected by either alcohol or drugs. Themajority of these offenders are men agedbetween 18 and 21."Operation Drinksafe aims to tackle thisthrough tough, intensive and ongoing policeoperations as well as education of regulardrinkers to change people’s attitudestowards excessive drinking habits in thetown. This is a significant campaign andwe'll be using a whole raft of differenttactics to make the night timeentertainment areas safe and welcoming forthose who want to enjoy themselvesresponsibly, while making the environmenthostile to drunks and trouble makers."Shoppingwith bells on!To help ensure that your ChristmasShopping is not more stressful than itneeds to be the Community SafetyPartnership would like to provide somesimple crime prevention advice:• Don't make your car or your presentsa target - never leave items on display.• Always try to use Park Mark Safe carparks.• If a cash machine looks like it hasbeen tampered with don't use itand report it to the bank.• Keep your handbag zipped andnever leave it unattended.Anti-pickpocket bells for yourhandbag are available by contactingthe Community Safety Team on01256 844 844 or emailingcommunity.safety@basingstoke.gov.ukDon’t let safety go up in smokeWhen decorating your house for Christmasthink safety first, that’s the message fromHampshire Fire and Rescue Service.Tree lights get used far less than regularlights so take extra care. Check the fusesare the right type for the lights, replaceblown bulbs, don’t overload sockets anddon’t go to sleep or go out with decorativelights still on.Candles are great fun and look lovely buttheir rise in popularity has increased the riskof fire in the home. Simple measures toavoid this are often overlooked. Don’t leavea room with a candle burning, avoid lightingoutdoor candles indoors. Give the candle asolid base so it can’t be knocked overeasily and of course don’t let your kids orpets play with them.The fire service would also like you to buyyour family an extra special gift this year – asmoke alarm. These life-saving devicesshould go in every room, except for thekitchen and the bathroom. The minimumshould be one smoke alarm on each floorlevel. For more information seewww.hantsfire.gov.ukFor more information about community safetysee www.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/comsafety.Not at home to burglarsGoing away to be with friends and relatives for Christmas? If so,then don’t invite the criminals around. Nearly half of all burglarieshappen when the homeowner’s not in, so do everything you canto discourage thieves when you’re not there.Don’t leave presents near a window or under the tree if you canavoid it; you don’t want a ‘shop’ display. Try to keep blinds andcurtains closed, consider buying light timers and keep your housesecure.Basingstoke & Deane Today 23

Get involved in yourWhat do you love about where you live –and what would make it an even better place to live?You know best what your area needs andwhat it doesn’t and that’s why the council iskeen to involve residents in setting up theirown activities, running their own facilities andlaying out their own plans for the future of theplace where they live.Neighboursare doing it forthemselvesA newneighbourhoodagreement hasbeen drawn upby residents in anarea ofRooksdown tobring theircommunitycloser together.The agreement sets out ground rules forneighbours after the local community gottogether at a barbecue in July. Thecommunity discussed ideas on topicsincluding local traffic problems anddeveloping activities for young people todo. Rooksdown Community Association,local patroller Sarah Ratcliff andcommunity development officer LucyMackmin organised the barbeque forresidents in the Moth Grace and CrondallTerrace areas.North Waltham was the first parish in theborough to complete a community plan in2005, which has been reviewed to reflect thecurrent situation. Kingsclere, St Mary Bourneand East Woodhay have all completed plans.Others like Bramley and Buckskin are juststarting work on theirs, using communityevents to talk to people about what thingsthey value about their area and what needsimproving or changing. Burghclere, Dummer,East Woodhay, Headley and Ashford Hill,Highclere, Newnham, Oakley, Overton,Silchester and Tadley are working closely withthe council to produce plans. And there aresix Basingstoke town areas that have beenidentified to develop community plans:Popley, Buckskin, South Ham, Norden,Brighton Hill and Winklebury.It is important that as many residents aspossible get involved in their communityplans as it gives them the chance, in a singledocument, to outline a vision for theircommunity and how that can be achieved.Community plans will be used to shape andinfluence key decisions for the local area, forexample what services are needed, what newhomes and facilities should be built or whatdevelopers’ contributions should be spent on.The council’s team of community developmentofficers is working with residents and existingorganisations in their areas to set up residents’groups, where they don’t already exist anddevelop initiatives, such as youth clubs, lunchclubs for older residents or exercise sessionsto promote healthier lifestyles.For more information aboutcommunity planning contactCarole Ruse on 01256 845485 or emailcarole.ruse@basingstoke.gov.ukBreathing new lifeinto the Popley PartnershipThe Popley Partnership, which has been active for more than a decade, is changing. It isnow called the Popley Resident Action Partnership and in the future will provide a strongervoice for local residents. In each area around Popley existing or newly formed communityor resident associations will each have representatives on the partnership. If you live in oneof the new communities in Popley, such as Merton Rise and Marnel Park, please look outover the next few months for information about how you can get involved and make adifference in your local community.One of the new residents’ associations has been set up in the Popley Poets area. Settingup a community café and arranging fun events to raise funds for local activities to make thearea a better place to live are high on the agenda for the newly-formed ShakespeareCommunity Residents’ Association.24 Basingstoke & Deane Today

community’s futureLocalyouthprojectsGiving young peoplea big sayOffering more things for young people todo in the borough – and involving them inplanning what is needed is a high priorityfor the council.Secondary school pupils in the boroughcompleted the Your Big Say survey, giving theirviews on the borough. The feedback will beused to put together an action plan formeeting the needs and aspirations of youngpeople in the borough. This will help to guidethe development of more youth activities andfacilities in the future.Get in contact,get involved!One example of an effective partnership togive 11 to 17 year olds something differentto do and stop boredom becoming acommunity nuisance was the council’sSummer Streetz school holiday activityprogramme. Sponsorship from globalspecialty biopharmaceutical companyShire assured half the funding for the summerprogramme to run in Brighton Hill, Buckskin,South Ham, Oakridge, Popley, Tadley andWhitchurch this year. It was also financiallysupported by Sovereign Kingfisher HousingAssociation and the Community Safety Forum.To find out more about the projects on these pages and others going on in your area,contact your community development officer:• Popley East, Popley West, Chineham, Basing, Bramley, Sherfield andSherborne St John – Stephen Bate on 07500 987638 or viastephen.bate@basingstoke.gov.uk.• Buckskin, Kempshott, Oakley, North Waltham, Upton Grey, the Candovers,Brookvale and Kings Furlong – Dani Berry on 07766 803403 or emaildanielle.berry@basingstoke.gov.uk• Norden, Eastrop, Baughurst, Tadley, Pamber and Silchester – Sherrie Morganon 07785 516966 or email sherrie.morgan@basingstoke.gov.uk• Brighton Hill, Hatch Warren, Beggarwood, Grove, Overton and Laverstoke SouthHam, Burghclere, Highclere, St Mary Bourne, Bishops Green and East Woodhay –Simon Christian on 07775 413236 or email simon.christian@basingstoke.gov.uk• Winklebury, Rooksdown, Kingsclere and Whitchurch – Lucy Mackmin on 07775413251 or email lucy.mackmin@basingstoke.gov.uk.South Ham goes club crazyThe “Crazy Days” Youth Club has startedin South Ham for eight to 12 year olds,following the success of trial sessionsover the summer holidays. Thanks to 25volunteers coming forward, the WestsideCommunity Association is now able torun club sessions every Monday eveningbetween 5pm and 6pm at RussellHoward Pavilion.Drop in for Winklebury funThe Winklebury Youth Project runs dropin sessions on Tuesday and Thursdayevenings during term time for 10 to 16-year-olds. The sessions run between6pm and 9pm at the youth building nextto Hampshire Football Association inWinklebury Way.Voice for young North WalthamA youth forum is being set up for theNorth Waltham area by the council’scommunity development officer, DanniBerry, and local organisations, workingwith young people. There is a need foryouth activities in the area the forum aimsto give young people a voice in theplanning of activities and programmes fortheir communities.More volunteers in BramleyThe new Bramley Youth Forum isnow meeting to look at developingyouth facilities in the village. Inputfrom over 80 young people led to53 signing up for volunteering projectswith Vinvolved as well as helping toform the youth forum.New wing takes offExtra youth workers mean ‘The Warren’youth wing at Hatch Warren CommunityCentre can now open for two extraevenings per week. Support was alsogiven to the youth club to get externalgrant funding for equipment and asummer programme of events.Basingstoke & Deane Today 25

‘Supersize’your recyclingWe want you to ‘go large’ on what goesinto your recycling bin.Cabinet ViewCabinet Member for Environment andClimate Change Cllr Elaine Still said:“Our most recent recycling figureshave gone up slightly, but we stillaren't at 25%. However, if everyone wasrecycling everything that can currently berecycled here, we'd be closer to 50%.We really need all of our residents'support in driving up our recycling rates.“As our picture shows, drinks cans andnewspapers (no matter what their size!) cango into your green bin! But what else can berecycled? We’ve provided a cut-out and keepguide as a simple reminder of what you canput in your green bin.Cutting the confusion about what goes in yourgreen bin is the aim of our ‘Keeping RecyclingSimple’ campaign. The symbols on productssaying that they can be recycled doesn’tmean that we can find a company to recyclethem in the UK or Europe. This would meansending recycling thousands of miles away,which is a lot less green!After you spray,don’t throw away!We are increasing what can be recycledwherever possible. One of the latest thingsthat can now be put into your green bin isempty aerosols, such as deodorants, hairsprays, air fresheners and furniture polish.These empty aerosol cans can now be putout for recycling, as long as any loose plasticlids are removed and they are not be piercedor squashed.However, aerosols containing products suchas insecticides, oven cleaners, paints andautomotive sprays, often marked with a skulland crossbones or a black cross on anorange background should be placed in thegrey rubbish bin for disposal.Bigger green binsAlmost 2,400 homes in the borough havealready ‘supersized’ their green bin over thelast 12 months exchanging their smallrecycling bin for a larger 240 litre one, so theycan fit in even more recycling.The majority of these exchanges are the resultof bin exchange campaigns in areas such asOld Basing, Hatch Warren and Brookvale.The council’s recycling team will be continuingthe Big Green Bin Exchange programme inother areas of the borough where householdsare still using the smaller recycling bins butregularly filling them.Flats the way to do it!The recycling team has been working hard togive residents who live in flats the opportunityto recycle at home. If you live in a flat and donot have a recycling bin or do not know whereyour recycling bin is, please get in touch.We can even supply a reusable bag to helpyou collect and carry your recycling to the bin!For more information see www.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/recycle, where you canapply for a bigger or extra green bin, find out your local ‘bring banks’ and get lotsof recycling tips. If you don’t have access to the internet call 01256 84484426 Basingstoke & Deane Today

Keen on being greener?Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from those who want to recycle even more.Why don’t you collectour recycling weekly?Weekly collection of both recyclingand waste bins would be extremelyexpensive. Within the current systemresidents can easily recycle, even applyingfor a bigger green bin, and there is noevidence that a weekly recycling collectionwould increase participation amongstnon-recyclers.What can I do withmy kitchen waste?Residents can buy discounted homecomposters and food digesters, which aresuitable for recycling all different types oforganic waste. We also encourage residentsto try to waste less food. On average, eachhousehold in the UK throws away nearly£500 worth of food each year, much ofwhich is edible.Why doesn’t the counciloffer a free gardenwaste collection?In 2005 all residents were consulted on whatsort of collection service was preferred forgarden waste, and a system with a chargefor those who wanted to use it was the mostpopular option.Can we have more glassand textile recyclingbanks?There are 65 local recycling ‘bring bank sites’around the borough collecting a range ofmaterials such as glass and textiles,aluminium foil, CDs and books, and another13 textile-only sites. We are always happy toconsider any new site suggested for bringsites but, whilst trying to place them inconvenient locations, we also have toconsider the proximity to houses due topotential noise nuisance.I only have one bin in thekitchen, how can I keeprecycling separate?Many homes use two smaller bins to helpthem separate their recycling from theirrubbish. If you don’t have room for two bins,the council can provide you with a reusablebag to help you collect your recycling athome.What about anotherHousehold WasteRecycling Centre, like theone on Wade Road?The Household Waste Recycling Centre onWade Road is run by Hampshire CountyCouncil. The county council is looking for asuitable site within the borough for anotherrecycling centre.I already recycleeverything I can –what else can I do?We are running a Waste Less Challenge laterthis year, to encourage those residents whoare already recycling lots to reduce theamount of waste they produce in the firstplace. We have already had lots of volunteersfor this, but if you would like to take partplease get in touch with the recycling team.Are you missinga green bin?The council has a legal duty to makesure, by the end of this year, that allhouseholds get a recycling collection.We believe that we are nearly there andwe are working on the few flats that arestill missing out. If you do not yet have arecycling collection from your home,please get in touch.Basingstoke & Deane Today 27

Living landscapesThe fictional rabbits of Watership Down madeone part of our local landscape famous, but anew plan aims to help protect more of theborough’s natural habitats.The Living Landscapes Strategy sets outhow the council will prioritise its efforts tosecure greener developments, improve thewildlife value of its parks and open spaces,promote public participation in conservationwork and work in partnership with otherCommunitiesgo greenerSince the Greening Campaign initiativewas unveiled last autumn, areas in theborough have already come forward tolaunch their own individual projects.The campaign supports and guideslocal communities to come together towork as a team towards improvingthe carbon footprint in their local area.In July, Sherborne St John became thefirst area to launch their campaign.This was quickly followed by areas suchas Tadley, Chineham and Upton Greystarting their own campaigns under theinitiative. The council is keen for otherareas in the borough to come forwardand get involved in the communityclimate change challenge.organisations such as the Hampshire andIsle of Wight Wildlife Trust.To be launched this autumn, it containsa three-year action plan, as the council’scommitment to playing its part in lookingafter the natural environment and guidingthe day-to-day work of the council’sconservation officers. To find out more seewww.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/landscapesor call 01256 844844.Waving the green flagEastrop Park has been named in the list of best public parks in England and Wales for theeleventh year in a row. The War Memorial Park has also gained the same Green Flagstatus. The scheme, managed by the Green Flag Plus Partnership, represents the nationalstandard for parks and green spaces.Eastrop Park boasts everything from a wildlife area to a children’s paddling pool, boatinglake, play areas, trim trail, tree trail and crazy golf course. While the War Memorial Park,which recently hosted the Basingstoke Live festival, offers visitors an attractive parklandlandscape of mature trees and garden features. It has a play area, BMX and skate park,sports pitches and all weather tennis courts. It also includes a woodland walk, weddinggarden and an aviary.For more information on climate changein the borough or to sign up to theGreening Campaign contact LucyMartins on 01256 845620.BloomingBasingstoke!Basingstoke has received a Silver Giltaward in the South and South East InBloom competition, for the third yearrunning, demonstrating the highstandard of horticulturaldisplays, natureconservation andenvironmentalprotectionin theborough.Council adviceto shout aboutTips on helping to make your area anicer environment for your neighbours,and what to do if they don’t do the samefor you, is available in three new noiseadvice leaflets.In a bid to cut the number of noise nuisancecomplaints, Dealing with Noisy Neighbours,Barking Dogs and Neighbour Noise, are nowavailable on the council’s website. Mostcomplaints about noise nuisance are aboutbarking dogs, slamming doors, loudmusic and parties. The result of these cancause irritation, physical and emotionalstress, sleep disturbance and lead toconflict between neighbours. For moreinformation about noise nuisance visitwww.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/noisenuisance oremail pollution@basingstoke.gov.uk orcall 01256 844844.28 Basingstoke & Deane Today

BasingstokeDiscovery Centrea new chapter beginsLet battlecommenceat Basing HouseThe history of Basing Housewas brought back to life witha bang during an event tomark the reopening of thehistoric site.Cheered on by the crowds, 1,000 Roundheads and Cavaliersdescended on the site over the August Bank Holiday weekend forone of the biggest ever Civil War re-enactments.The three-day event marked the reopening of Hampshire CountyCouncil’s Basing House following extensive work to conserve thehistoric buildings associated with the site and create neweducation and visitor facilities. Funding from the Heritage LotteryFund, MLA Renaissance and the borough council has enabled itstransformation into a family-friendly site that will appeal to peopleof all ages and abilities.New features include a visitor centre with gift shop andrefreshments, new facilities for learning, a brand new museumexhibition and a hair-raising sound and light show in the TudorGreat Barn. Visitors will also have the benefits of landscapingimprovements, new toilets and baby-changing facilities andimproved disabled facilities and parking.Visit www.basinghouse.org.uk for more information.The transformation of Basingstoke Library into a high-tech DiscoveryCentre is well underway with doors set to open on Tuesday 30 November.Using funding provided by Hampshire County Council andBasingstoke and Deane Borough Council, the old library in FestivalPlace is being transformed into a state-of-the art Discovery Centreproviding access to books, computers, events and activities,community learning and fun.As part of the work the Basingstoke Citizens’ Advice Bureau has alsobeen extended and refurbished, reopening to the public last month.During the library’s closure the spiral staircase has been removed, anew lift installed for easier access and new accessible changing suitefacilities added.Basingstoke Library before the transformationA community room, funded by the borough council, has been created tohost activities including author talks, education activities and small musicperformances. It will also be available for community groups to hire.In addition to this, the Basingstoke Discovery Centre will feature selfservice stations and a new help desk where local residents can enquireabout any of the services provided by the county council. A learningand business suite, funded by Eli Lilly, will provide a small meeting andtraining room with computers.When the centre opens on Tuesday 30 November visitors will alsonotice the shelves stocked with over 30,000 new titles.For more information about Basingstoke Discovery Centrevisit www.discoverycentres.co.uk/basingstokeComing into Basingstoke toExtra parking is available at Basing View for just £2.50 for a maximumfor anTH5572_0910_0910Basingstoke & Deane Today 29

What’s onFor more events, ideas for days out and a comprehensive list of what’shappening in Basingstoke and Deane see www.destinationbasingstoke.co.ukWhy not sign up for the leisure newsletter for regular updates about what’s on,details of local attractions and events in the area.Perhaps you have an event happening in Basingstoke, whether it’s large orsmall, why not submit your own event via the website.100 years of Happy GuidingUntil Saturday 20 November, 10amWillis Museum – freeGuiding the first hundred years – come and celebrate the100th birthday with Basingstoke Brownies and Guides.0845 603 5635Mementoes and MemoriesUntil Sunday 12 DecemberMilestones Museum –cost included in entry priceA personal collection of objects, photographs anddocuments linking three soldiers from the Great War1914–18 to the present.0845 603 5635Christmas GrottoMonday 8 Novemberto Friday24 DecemberFestivalPlace –£4.50per childMeet Santaand receive apresent, haveyour phototaken and enjoya carousel ride.www.festivalplace.co.ukWho’s BadWednesday 17 November, 7.45pmThe Anvil – prices varyWith glitzy jackets, glittering gloves and 80s regalia,Who’s Bad is an infectious production that takesaudiences on a musical expedition spanning threedecades of Michael Jackson’s chart topping music.www.anvilarts.org.uk01256 844244Toddlertime at Kingsclere LibraryThursday 18 November, 2.15pmKingsclere Library – freeFun half hour long session for children aged from birthto five years with songs, rhymes and short stories withillustrated puppets. Usually the first and third Thursdayof the month. 0845 6035631Festival Factor FinalFriday 19 November, 8pm to 10pmFestival Square, Festival PlaceIntroduced by Olly Smith, come and vote for yourfavourite as the 12 finalists perform to win the under18s’ and the over 18s’ titles. www.festivalplace.co.ukChristmas Light Switch OnFriday 19 November, 5.30pm to 6pmFestival PlaceJoin in the annual Christmas light switch on celebration,this year hosted by Olly Smith and starring pantomimestars, costumed characters, special guests and fireworks!Christmas Craft FayreSunday 21 November, 2pm to 4pmHatch Warren Community Centre – 50p entranceA chance to buy some locally produced crafts in timefor Christmas. Plus a Christmas craft zone in the grotto.01256 811262The Little MermaidThursday 25 November to Saturday 27 NovemberCentral Studio – prices varyHans Christian Andersen’s classic tale brought to life.www.centralstudio.co.uk, 01256 418318Working with Digital Imagesand Photoshop ElementsSaturday 27 November, 10.30am to 3pmFairfields Arts Centre – £35, £25 concessionswww.fairfields.org, 01256 32162130 Basingstoke & Deane Today

Christmas BazaarSaturday 27 November, 11am to 3pmChurch Cottage, St Michael’s Church –20p pensioners, 30p adultsCrafts, gifts and local charity fundraising stall.01256 423874Storytime at South Ham LibraryWednesday 1 December, 10amSouth Ham Library – freeHalf an hour of stories for under fives and theirparents/carers every Wednesday morning.0845 6035631The Wind in the WillowsFriday 3 December to Sunday 2 JanuaryThe Haymarket – prices varyFollowing the adventures of good natured Mole, friendlyRatty, their loyal friend Badger and the jovial butconceited Toad. www.anvilarts.org.uk, 01256 844244The Sleeping PrincessSaturday 4 December, 11amCentral Studio – £7 adults, £4.50 childrenSleeping Beauty in the wood with full integrated signlanguage. www.centralstudio.co.uk01256 418318Christmas Arts and Crafts FairSaturday 4 December, 10am to 3pmWillis Museum – free admissionJoin local artists and craftspeople at the Willis Museumfor a Christmas fair. Plenty of creative and imaginativeideas for Christmas presents, all made locally.0845 603 5635Scrabble at Tadley LibraryThursday 9 December, 10am to middayTadley Library – 50pJoin the friendly group for a game of scrabble.0845 6035631Sleeping BeautyThursday 9 December to Sunday 2 JanuaryThe Anvil – prices varyPantomime fun for all the family featuring Wendy Craig,Abi Titmuss and Andrew Agnew.www.anvilarts.org.uk, 01256 844244Mayor’s Charity Christmas ConcertSaturday 11 December, 7.30pmSt Michael’s Church – costs tbcA charity Christmas Concert in aid of the Mayor’sCharity Appeal. 01256 844844Nativity SceneSunday 12 December, 12pm to 2pmFestival Place, Festival SquareCalling all would be Mary, Josephs, shepherds, kingsand angels, join the Mayor of Basingstoke at the Nativityscene. Traditional music, mulled wine and mince pies.Come dressed as your favourite nativity character.www.festivalplace.co.ukKnit n’ Knatter at South Ham LibraryWednesday 15 December, 2.15pmSouth Ham Library – freeWant to learn to knit, or try new patterns?The group meets every two weeks. 0845 6035631Bookmates at Tadley LibrarySaturday 18 December, 11amTadley Library – freeA free club for boys aged 10 and over to discussbooks and find out about ones you would like to read.Parents are welcome to come along too. Free hireof a DVD or game at each session. 0845 6035631An Evening with Brian BlessedFriday 28 January, 7.30pmCentral Studio – £15The extrovert personality comes to the studio of which heis he patron. www.centralstudio.co.uk, 01256 418318Jimmy CarrSunday 13 February, 7.30pmThe Anvil – £25Laughter Therapy is Jimmy Carr’s ninth solo show.An evening of non-stop jokes, gags and banter.Suitable for ages 16 and over. www.anvilarts.org.uk01256 844244Sophia the Snail could be coming to a schoolnear you from 28 May to 19 June next year.The Proteus Theatre production for three to seven yearolds is being offered to schools in the borough for amuch reduced charge. The production follows the fastand funny tale about one little girl’s journey towardovercoming her biggest fears – and why it’s soimportant to eat your greens!If you would be interested for your schoolcall 01256 354541, email info@proteustheatre.comor visit www.proteustheatre.comBasingstoke & Deane Today 31

How to getin touchwith the councilBy post, write to:Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council,PO Box 191, Basingstoke. RG21 4AHBy phone, call:The contact centre on 01256 844844The contact centre is open Monday to Thursday from 8.30am to5.30pm and on Fridays from 8.30am to 5pm (except bank holidays).By SMS message, text:07797 877006By fax, send to:01256 845200By email, write to:customer.service@basingstoke.gov.ukBy website, click:www.basingstoke.gov.ukIn person, visit:Basingstoke and Deane Borough CouncilCivic Offices, London Road, BasingstokeThe Civic Offices are open Mondayto Thursday from 8.30am to 5pmand on Fridays from 8.30am to 4.30pm(except bank holidays).Bin collectionsover ChristmasOver the Christmasand New Year periodthere will be no changes tothe bin collections, unlessadverse conditions affectcollections. Pleaseplace your grey and greenbins out for collection asusual.For more informationabout bin collectionssee the website atwww.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/recycle orcall the contact centre on 01256 844844.Christmas openingThe civic offices will be closed between Christmas and New Year.The offices re-open on Tuesday 4 January 2011 (for emergenciesrelating to council services call 01256 844844).Representingyou and your viewsThere are 60 borough councillors, with eachelected to represent a ward of the borough.Depending on their electorate, wards haveeither one, two or three councillors torepresent them on the borough council.To find our who your councillor is seewww.basingstoke.gov.uk/go/mycouncilloror call 01256 844844.If undelivered please return to:Communications, Marketing and Involvement, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council,Civic Offices, London Road, Basingstoke, RG21 4AH