Cllr Sarah Hacker

Our budget has been passed

2012-02-21T22:11:00.000Z

Well, back from the Council meeting where the budget was passed with full support from all parties, apart from the Greens.

The Greens put forward a motion to increase the Council Tax by 3.5%, following what the Green council in Brighton have done. Strangely, they didn't say what this rise would pay for. This amendment to the budget was rejected.

Times are hard. Many people have already lost their working tax credits, with more to follow. Food prices are going up, energy prices are on the rise, petrol is getting more expensive again. If you get a payrise, it is likely to be below inflation making it, effectively, a paycut. Many people aren't getting a payrise at all and, with unemployment rising, people are facing the possibility of not having a job at all.

With costs rising faster than pay people are struggling. I know people who are having to decide between heating and food so, when offered the choice of no Council Tax rise, or a rise of 3.5%, I know what most people would go for and it's not with the Greens.

Are you interested in Reading's health and heritage?

2012-02-16T11:03:00.001Z

13/02/2012
Reading Borough Council Press Release

Reading residents will be able to vote for who they want to stand on The Cultural Partnership Board during an election taking place over the next two months.

The Cultural Partnership is looking for two board members to represent the Reading community on key themes; health and heritage. There are currently six community representative seats on the Board, but two of the posts are currently vacant.

The Cultural Partnership celebrates the diversity of Reading , through involving, inspiring, engaging and achieving.

Individuals elected to the board will work with residents, businesses and charitable organisations to promote the themes and encourage communities to get involved and make a real difference.

Nominations can be received until February 29th.

Ways to nominate:
On-line: www.theculturalpartnership.co.uk
Phone: 01189374047
Post:
Reading Town Hall
Blagrave Street
Reading
RG1 1 QH

People can also pick up nomination forms from:

HexagonCivic Centre
Town Hall
Whitley Library
Palmer Park Stadium
Central Pool
Meadway Leisure Centre
Caversham Library

Nominees must be willing to be nominated and nominees are also allowed to nominate themselves.

Nominations will not be accepted for Councillors or Council Officers as the Partnership board already has cross partnership representation. Representatives will be expected to serve a two year term and will be expected to adhere to a code of conduct issued at the first Cultural Partnership Board meeting.

In order to vote or be nominated in the community elections, residents will need to be aged over 16 and signed up as a member of The Cultural Partnership.

Residents can register to The Cultural Partnership www.theculturalpartnership.co.uk or by contacting the Council's Culture and Sport Development Team on (0118) 9374047 to request a form.

Looking forward to the new gardening year!

2012-02-11T10:00:00.000Z

I'm sure I'm not alone in enjoying browsing through seed and plant catalogues (maybe I am?). When they start dropping through the door in January I actually look forward to finding a quiet moment to have a good look and start planning my garden for the coming year.

Most of my flowers are perennials as I am not a fan of the hard work and waste of bedding plants. I also don't want to spend my money on something that will only last a year. I like my plants to be an investment.

Fruit and veg is another matter. You can eat what you grow and that's something I find exciting. I now have a 'mini orchard' thanks to my parents buying me five patio fruit trees for Christmas to add to my cherry, nectarine and family apple tree (three varieties grafted onto one stem). I also have a decent strawberry bed, blueberries and an ever growing raspberry patch. I have even scavenged a tayberry from my mother-in-law.

Veg this year will be courgettes as they are always a success and we eat a lot of them. Carrots did well in a trough last year so I will do them again and may attempt cabbages for a second year but with greater attention to caterpillars. The boys have developed a taste for cherry tomatoes so I just have to decide on variety. I think I will just grow Charlotte potatoes this year as they are a favourite of mine and stored well.

But, once again, I am tempted by butternut squash although I have never been successful. Maybe this will be the year?

'We Need to Talk' Success and Next Steps

2012-02-09T10:00:00.000Z

07/02/2012
Reading Borough Council Press Release

The success of the first phase of Reading Borough Council's 'We Need To Talk' public engagement programme is outlined in a report going to a Cabinet meeting later this month, along with the next steps in the process.

Last summer year the Council launched a new way of working with local people, aimed at building long-lasting relationships with local residents and providing new opportunities to influence Council decisions and services. The 'We Need to Talk' public engagement initiative focused on the difficult decisions facing the council in the current economic climate and gave local people the chance to have their say on the issues that matter most to them and their communities.

With 780 online responses, 30 community engagement events spread across the borough and a successful community event at the Town Hall attended by 150 people, Reading residents have provided a rich source of information on their priorities. A separate Resident's Survey confirmed the feedback received in the 'We Need to Talk' consultation.

Crime, clean streets, road and pavements repairs, levels of traffic congestion, good schools and public transport were all identified as important areas for Reading residents. Crime and clean streets were identified as the highest priorities. This information is consistent with the Council's 2008 and 2009 Residents Surveys, although affordable housing has moved up significantly in importance since they took place.

Strengths for Reading were highlighted as parks and open spaces, good neighbours, health services, public transport and good schools.

Young people highlighted youth centres, activities and places to meet, buses and transport, educational and employment as the most important areas for them.

The Residents Survey showed that many people have a real appetite for being part of an on-going programme of engagement, either on specific topics of interest or more broadly.

People's views and priorities are being used by Reading Borough Council to inform budget decisions going forward, including in responding to people's concerns about protecting key frontline services.

The report - which goes to meeting of Reading Borough Council's Cabinet on February 13th - includes detailed information on the results of the public consultation as well as describing the next steps in the process in an appendix which includes detail on how priorities are being taken forward with further resident involvement.

Some of the next steps include:
" On-going follow through with ideas and suggestions from phase 1 of the 'We Need To Talk' consultation
" Further development of a database of residents who wish to be consulted or involved further, on specific subjects or generally
" Further development the link between the engagement programme and the budget setting process, including ongoing dialogue about the hard decisions the Council must make in the face of a reducing budget
" The delivery of a 'Let's Talk Health' initiative to inform and shape local priorities when national reforms are implemented

Jan Gavin, Reading's Lead Councillor for Service Delivery and Improvement, said: 'This administration promised residents that we would listen to them, so we have started a conversation with residents about what is most important to them. Even though there is less money, we want to work with residents to find new and better ways to deliver improved services. Residents will be able to see in the budget for next year that we have listened and taken action on what they have told us matters to them. This is not a one-off, we will continue to listen and talk to residents.'

Bet Tickner, Lead Councillor for Public Engagement and Health, added: 'The Council has now launched 'Let's Talk Health.' We are asking Reading residents to tell us what are their priorities for their own health and for healthcare in Reading, via a survey and public meetings. It's important to ask residents this now because, under the NHS Bill now going through Parliament, the Council will in future have a role in co-ordinating healthcare in Reading. We are determined that the public must have a voice in setting these priorities for health, after all it's our NHS..'

Let's Talk Health - continuing the conversation

2012-02-07T07:38:00.000Z

In the recent Let's Talk surveys and events, Battle residents made it clear that health services were very important to them. Reading Borough Council are committed to talking to residents about the things that are important to them so the next Let's Talk conversation will be about health! Click on the picture below to find out more:

Battle will be hosting a Let's Talk Health event at Battle Library on Monday 27 February 2-4 pm. There is a questionnaire available online and there are also paper questionnaires available at libraries, leisure centres and other council buildings, as well as GP surgeries, dentists and local hospitals

Is there enough health provision in Battle Ward? Do you use our local parks to exercise and keep fit? Are you and your family getting the support you need to improve or maintain your health? Please do go along and make your thoughts heard about the things you like and the things you want to see more of.

Do you know someone struggling in the cold?

2012-02-02T20:00:00.000Z

£100,000 in Money for Vulnerable Reading Residents During the Winter

02/02/2012
Reading Borough Council Press Release

As the cold snap continues this week, vulnerable residents who struggle to keep warm during cold winter months could get help thanks to Reading Borough Council's successful £105,000 bid for Government funding which will help save lives.

Health authorities estimate around 80 people in Reading die needlessly as a direct result of cold homes during the winter. Very often these are vulnerable elderly people whose homes either need minor repairs to protect against the cold or who struggle to pay heating bills. In some cases the installation of a few small energy efficiency measures in their homes would make all the difference.

Late last year Reading Borough Council bid for a slice of the Government's 'Warm Homes Healthy People' fund and was successfully awarded £105,000 in funding to help vulnerable people in the borough.

Whilst supporting the elderly will be a key target for the funding, other vulnerable groups whose health may be adversely affected by cold will also be eligible, including those with disabilities and very young children.

The Council is now calling on vulnerable residents who struggle to keep warm or neighbours who know of anyone who may struggle during the winter months to make contact to discuss their needs. The number to call is 0118 937 3747.

In some cases the funding could be used to provide minor repairs to homes which will help block draughts and protect them from the cold. It could be used to introduce some energy efficiencies into a property, like loft insulation for example, or it could be utilised in some individual cases to address fuel poverty.

The Council's campaign called 'Winter Watch: Saving Lives by Working Better With You' - will offer targeted advice to vulnerable people on how to alleviate fuel poverty, raise awareness of the risks of low temperatures and high humidity in homes and encourage the take up of grants available for insulation and heating.

An emergency fund will also be offered to provide immediate help and warmth to especially vulnerable people in extreme need.

Reading Borough Council has already been in contact with Ridgeway, its housing repairs contractor, about how the money could be most effectively used, as well as Age UK about how best to encourage vulnerable members of the Reading community to come forward. The Council will work closely with a range of partner organisations, including voluntary and health organisations, to discuss how the money can be most effectively used..

Bet Tickner, Reading's Lead Councillor for Health and Public Engagement, said: 'A little help at the right time can make all the difference and I trust that organisations like Age UK will work with Reading Borough Council to ensure that we use this extra funding effectively to help elderly people keep warm at home.'

Reading Borough Council is embarking on a significant public awareness campaign to encourage vulnerable Reading residents to make contact and see if they would be eligible to access the fund. This will also include a local radio advertising campaign and working with partner organisations to get information out to the public.

Access to the funding is available now, even if in some cases it will be next winter before some of the real benefits will be realised.

To say I was obsessed with the weather.....

2012-02-02T10:00:00.000Z

.. would be a understatement.

It's one of the first things I check everyday, making sure my family are properly kitted out. I watch the Countryfile forecast for the week ahead to make sure I'm prepared. I follow the Met Office on Twitter - I could go on. So imagine how excited I was to read in the Reading Post that Reading is having a festival of Weather, Art and Music over the Jubilee weekend.

I really enjoyed the Meteorology module I did at the University of Reading while I was doing my degree so I definately will be along to this festival. There are also the Childrens Festival and Water Fest to look forward to - and many more besides. I just love the diverse range of festivals Reading has to offer!

Healthy Living Event To Be Held in Town

2012-01-30T10:00:00.000Z

19/01/2012
Reading Borough Council Press Release

A healthy living event is taking place in the town on Wednesday, February 8th.

People who live and work in Reading can go along to the Civic Offices from 10.30am-1.30pm, where adult social care and health professionals will be on hand to offer advice to those with long-term health conditions, such as diabetes, stroke, breathing problems and joint pain.

There will be free blood pressure checks and screening for diabetes.

From 10.30am-12.30pm, a series of lifestyle presentations will take place, led by Citizens' Advice Bureau, Arthritis Care, Diabetes UK, The Stroke Association and NHS Berkshire.

The event has been organised by Reading's Physical Disabilities and Sensory Needs Network (PDSN) a group which aims to improve the quality of life for people with physical disabilities, neurological conditions and sensory loss.

Mike Orton, lead councillor for adult social care, said: 'It is really important people take care of their health. This event is a good way for people who have long term health conditions to check themselves out and ask health professionals any questions.'

The PDSN Network is an organisation made up of adult social care service users, carers, representatives from national charities and local user-led organisations. This event will help people to improve their lives by seeing how they improve their health by changes in life style.

Regular meetings take place four times a year alongside special events and conferences focusing on issues of particular interest or concern for people with physical and/or sensory disabilities and their carers.

For more information call Nina Crispin on (0118) 937 2383 or email housingccstrategyteam@reading.gov.uk

Sometimes it pays to look up.

2012-01-29T12:57:00.002Z

It's so easy to bustle about, getting on with life, and miss some truly beautiful things simply because you dodn't look up. I was in Battle Library on Thursday and, while waiting to get the baby weighed, noticed this stunning stained glass:

I have been told by a very reliable source that they depict the arms of Reading Abbey, Reading Borough and the University College, Reading, ( later the University of Reading ). I've been in and out of Battle Library for the last 30 years and never really noticed it. What else have I missed?

Cow Lane bridge nearly finished!

2012-01-22T18:32:00.000Z

Here's a brilliant time-lapse video showing the entire construction of the new Cow Lane bridge. The works are on track and the bridge will open on 30 January at 6am. Although the change for motorists will be small at this stage (you could just about get two cars side by side under the old bridge), pedestrians will benefit immediately with a pavement where, before, you had to dodge traffic. The traffic on the Oxford Road should also return to normal - phew!

Grit, urea and the winter plan

2012-01-17T20:08:00.001Z

Last Thursday was the Transport Users Forum - open to all. This time there was an excellent presentation on the winter plan Reading Borough Council puts in place for the winter season. I found it very interesting and, if it weren't for my banana bread and soda bread, I would have popped a post on about it earlier. You can get more information by searching for 'winter gritting' on the council's website.

Here are a few of the facts about the winter plan:

We have 1200 tonnes of salt in stock at the beginning of the season.
40% of the highway network is treated in the event of ivy/snowy weather. It takes 2 hours to complete the primary routes and a further hour for the secondary routes.
Salt is only effective up to -7C.
The spread rate of the salt depends on the weather forecast 10g/m2 is the normal amount but they spread 20g/m2 if prolonged icy or snowy weather is forecast.
They get a forecast at midday then an update at 7 in the evening. These forecasts help them decide if the gritters are to be sent out.
If prolonged cold weather or snow is forecast urea is spread in the pedestrianised areas of the town centre. It is either extracted from animal urine or synthetic. It forms a gel that lasts three days and stops ice forming and snow settling. If needed it will then be swept away and re-applied.
There is a new Vaisala weather station outside Battle Library to measure urban road/surface temperature, dewpoint, humidity, air temperature and rainfall to help get more accurate forecast for Reading. It will be fully operational shortly.

I thought this was CCTV and wondered why it was pointing at the floor!

All in all a lot of work goes into ensuring the roads of Reading remain safe and usable. I really do recommend coming along to a Transport Users Forum as the presentations made are very interesting!

I am going to get into baking!

2012-01-13T15:28:00.000Z

I would say I am a pretty good cook and most of our meals are 'from scratch' (to quote a good friend). I do your usual family meals - roasts, sausage and mash, spaghetti, chilli plus a few more exotic risottos and paellas thrown in for variety. The perfect curry still eludes me though so I usually cheat with a ready made sauce. One thing I rarely do is bake. If you make a tasty cake you have to eat it don't you? Not good for the waistline.

Well this year I have decided to embrace my inner domestic goddess and take up baking. I shall just bake things that can be eaten sensibly or as part of a main meal. I have just baked a rather good chocolate and banana bread, inspired by the Great British Bake-off and a baking book from my parents. So pleased with how it's turned out:

The oven is still on so I am going to bake a soda bread to go with our stew instead of potatoes. So expect the random posts of 2012 to be about baking as well as gardening!

UPDATED: The soda bread, lemon drizzle cake and shortbread

Good news for Readings voluntary sector

2012-01-09T22:13:00.001Z

Reading Borough Council Press Release

Voluntary and community groups across Reading are set to benefit from an increase in funding from Reading Borough Council over the coming year..

Despite the difficult economic climate, in Reading the Council plans to continue to increase money going towards the voluntary and community sector from a budgeted £12,596,403 million in the current year, to £12,637,584 in financial year 2012/13.

Reading has always maintained a strong voluntary sector and the proposed increase in funding is in recognition of the significant benefits voluntary and community groups bring to communities across Reading, and in helping the Council to tackle key issues in the town.

Bet Tickner, Lead Councillor for Public Engagement and Health, said: 'Once again Reading is supporting the vital work of the voluntary sector, at a time when families, the elderly and disabled and young people are all going through hard times. Continuing to work in partnership will be our way forward.'

The proposed total funding pot for 2012/13 is made up of direct grants to voluntary groups and revenue contracts with community organisations.

Direct grants of £1.5 million underpin the work of many of Reading's local voluntary organisations, including Reading Citizens Advice Bureau and the Reading Community Welfare Rights Unit, which provide advice and support for people who are struggling with debt and whose services have become even more important in the current economic conditions.

Reading Council for Racial Equality will be provided with transitional funding while they carry out a consultation with a view to forming a new local organisation to bring together, represent and support the work of all local groups working on equalities issues and community cohesion.. *(see notes to editors).

In 2011/ 12 there was a significant shift in the way Reading Borough Council commissioned services from grants to contracts with the voluntary sector, and there is projected expenditure of £10.8 million on contracts - in addition to the £1.5m expenditure on grants - planned in 2012/2013.

The change provided opportunities for new services to be tendered in 2011/12 to provide the best possible value for council tax payers money. These have included for example the Family Support and Youth Counselling services, for which both open tenders were awarded to voluntary organisations. New funding for the Active Ageing programme enabled Age UK to continue to deliver a vital service for local residents.

Plans for 2012/2013 include opportunities for service providers to bid for funding for:

- Preventative services for older people, following a series of pilot projects which tested out new approaches
- Carers services
- Timebank service (whereby residents can give time to help their community and then receive help back when they may need it)
- Re-investment into substance mis-use support services and mental health

There will also be bidding opportunities for short breaks/ respite for children with disabilities. This will be restricted to voluntary, community and not-for-profit organisations.

Local groups involved in culture and sport will continue to access a £74,000 grants pot for projects planned for the year of the Olympics and for the wide range of related events and activities planned to take place in the town.

Local groups will also benefit from the easy access community grants pot of £25,000 to encourage neighbourhood and grassroots activity where participation is the key. This will help groups organise or take part in regular local events such as Carnival, Children's Festival, Waterfest, Pride, Asian Arts, Holocaust Memorial Day, East Reading Festival, Oxford Road Fun Day, Caversham Festival, Climate Week, Reading Rescue and Black History Month, as well as take part in environmental activities, or simply set up a new group or project. GLOBE groups are now included in this easy application process.

In addition a funding pot of £100,000 has been set aside by the Council to fund capital projects for the voluntary and community sector in Reading. This fund has already proved popular in helping voluntary organisations make improvements to heating systems, replace windows, install security systems and improve car parking facilities for a support centre for children with learning disabilities.

Reading Borough Council has confirmed its continued support of £220,000 in 2012/2013 to bring the Central Club back into community use, working in close collaboration with the Reading African and Caribbean Community Association. The Association is still seeking matched funding support for this venture.

An additional £384,049 is also provided in the form of low cost accommodation for local groups.

The proposed new funding opportunities for voluntary and community groups across Reading will go to Cabinet on Monday January 16th for discussion and approval.

Working Better With You - Battle

2012-01-06T16:00:00.000Z

Last year Reading Borough Council held a series of Let's Talk events. There was an on-line survey, leaflet, letters were sent out and two events held in every ward. This all culminated in the Working Better With You event at the Town Hall in November.

It was during this event that the priorities for Reading residents were revealed. The feed back from Let's Talk can be found as a pdf at the bottom of this page.

The priorities in Battle were found to be:

Important: Health services, libraries, public transport,
education and play activities for children

Improve: Tougher licensing laws for shops selling
alcohol cheaply, removal of street drinking around
Oxford Road.

While setting the budget for 2012/2013 the Labour administration have had the priorities of residents at the forefront of their minds. Funds are tight and it's important that valued services are maintained and protected wherever possible.

Battle councillors Chris Maskell, Gul Khan (also our candidate in May's local elections) and I are already taking the results above very seriously.

Residents say health services are important but we have all just found out the promised medical centre on the former hospital sit will not be built. Battle councillors have expressed their anger and concern about this massive disappointment and will be working hard to ensure residents concerns are taken seriously.

We are also considering the future of the Oxford Road once the Cow Lane bottle neck has been removed in 2015. The road has already been resurfaced and unnecessary street furniture removed. We are now looking for further improvements in the next few years.

We are working with local police and the Oxford Road Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) about concerns with public drinking, alcohol sales and street workers near West Reading bridge.

There are many other things we are working on for the neighbourhood as a whole, certain areas and individuals. If you need our assistance, please get in touch.

Sometimes it's the small things

2012-01-03T19:22:00.000Z

A councillors work is varied - from ensuring roads are resurfaced and libraries refurbished to getting missed bins collected and dog waste bins installed.

This dog waste bin in Little Johns Lane was installed in the last few months because residents were concerned about dog fouling. I asked if a bin could be provided, and it was. Let's hope those walking their dogs use it.

Small projects like dog waste bins are just as important as the larger problems and projects because they are important to residents and are therefore important to me.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000Z

Wishing you all a peaceful New Year.

Battle councillors Chris Maskell, Gul Khan and I will continue to work hard for Battle residents. If you have a suggestion, concern or need some help please do get in touch. Our contact details are here or you are welcome to come to one of our surgeries at Battle library - the first of the year being Saturday 7 January 10.30-12. Further dates are on the left hand side of this page.

Cow Lane bridge - time lapse video

2011-12-31T16:04:00.001Z

Very impressive to watch and at one point it looks like the old embankment is being eaten by yellow dinosaurs. They are going to line the inner walls with bricks which will look nice. Can't wait to go under it!

This really is a historic moment for Reading. I have a friend whose relative helped build the bridges which then where in farmland. They were never designed as road bridges, their name makes that clear, so it is great we are getting something fit for purpose.

Boxing Day at the new Cow Lane bridge

2011-12-26T15:48:00.001Z

The embankment and rails have gone.

Biggest and a big truck.

Loads of people watching.

The new bridge being moved into place.

2011-12-24T09:00:00.000Z

Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Peaceful New Year

My eldest son and Father Christmas (or is it?)

Walk away the Christmas excesses

2011-12-21T12:53:00.000Z

Random post alert. I was wondering what to blog about before Christmas. Crime figures (good news as they are down), bin collection dates (available here) or about last nights Carols in the Community at Battle Library (which was great with a surprise presentation for Marjorie)? I then glanced upon my latest Current Archaeology magazines and thought I would share some of my favourite winter walks with you all instead.

My family and I often go for a winter walk to blow away some of the Christmas cobwebs that set in after a few days of TV and Christmas food. Last year we went to Uffington White Horse. Took a while to get there and was very cold but offered stunning views.

The head of the horse

One of our favourite walks is Lardon Chase overlooking Goring. It is a short drive outside Reading and again has great views over the Thames Valley. We go to this one all year round as it's so easy.

One year we fulfilled my ambition to go to Wittenham Clumps. I had seen them from afar on many journeys but had never actually 'found' them. I always seemed to miss them. I love learning about the ancient history of Britain so visiting a Bronze age hill fort was a worthwhile journey.

Another favourite from years ago is Calleva Atrebatum or Silchester. We are yet to take the boys but I am sure they will love the ampitheatre as much as I did as a young girl. I would love to go to the field school the University of Reading run each year and have a go at archaeology.

So far we haven't decided where we will go this year - suggestions welcome.

Carols for the Community

2011-12-18T19:23:00.003Z

I am in the middle of watching Countryfile (love Countryfile) and they are examining Christmas and community. They are suggesting the current period of austerity is making people want to come together as a community again for support, encouragement and some festive cheer. The recent Let's Talk events highlighted Reading residents drive for community activities, especially the Town Hall event where residents had some wonderful ideas for local groups and activities.

Once again Battle Library is hosting Carols for the Community on Tuesday 20 December at 6 pm. It is a packed event and a great chance for local people to get together to celebrate Christmas or just have a good sing. The Salvation Army brass band will be there again to add to the festive cheer and the excellent Reading Community Gospel Choir will be treating us to some carols. Last year I did a reading which was a very special moment for me (and a surprise!).

There will be a sad note to this years event as Marjorie McClure is retiring at the end of the month so this will be the last service with her in charge. She has made Battle Library into a fantastic community hub and will be sorely missed.

Picture pinched from Cllr Maskell

Today I visited the new Cow Lane bridge.....

2011-12-16T16:56:00.000Z

Today Battle councillors Chris Maskell, Gul Khan and I visited the new Cow Lane bridge along with Cllr Tony Page (Lead Cllr for Transport, Planning and Regeneration) and Network Rail.

We were shown the new bridge and it was explained to us how they are going to lift, then drive the bridge, into place over Christmas. They will then replace the road surface and create the footpath and cycle way. We were not expecting the footpath and cycle way to be in place so quickly (although only under one bridge) and the benefit will be immediate as there is no footpath under this bridge at the moment.

The work that is being put into this project is immense and I shall try to watch the new bridge being driven into place on Boxing Day. Further information on the road closures and viewing platform can been read in my other post about the project here.

Cllr Chris Maskell, and former Battle cllr and Redlands candidate Tony Jones fought hard for this project which will be of great benefit to the residents of Battle ward.

Below is a short video on the Cow Lane project which was shot today:

The problem of fly-tipping

2011-12-15T21:36:00.000Z

Fly-tipped items this month

Fly-tipping is still a problem in Battle ward. Here's how you can report it:

Contact one of your councillors. You can contact us through councillor services here or directly here.
Call the council on 0800 626540.
Complete this online form.
You can report litterand fly tipping problems by texting the Council GROT number 81722.
You can even report it via www.fixmystreet.com as the council is sent reports from this website.

If you have bulky waste you cannot remove yourself, the Council can remove it for a fee. Complete this form to arrange collection. Alternatively you can take it to Household Waste Recycling Centre or donate it to charity.

For more information on fly-tipping from Reading Borough Council please see here.

Civic Carol Service

2011-12-12T10:00:00.000Z

Below is the press release about the wonderful Civic Carol Service. I have been to a few now and they are really special. Reading Minster Church of St Mary the Virgin is a beautiful church and I am looking forward to attending this year and singing my socks off.

'Civic Carol Service to Take Place in Town

08/12/2011
Reading Borough Council Press Release

One of the highlights of the festive calendar, the Civic Carol Service, takes place in Reading next week.

The service will be at Reading Minster Church of St Mary the Virgin, St Mary's Butts on Thursday, December 15th.

It is a traditional service of lessons and carols retelling the story of the Nativity.

There will be a number of readings by representatives of local organisations.

These include Councillor Deborah Edwards, Mayor of Reading; Michael Coughlin, Chief Executive Reading Borough Council; Colin Wallace, Fundraising and Communications Coordinator Launchpad Reading, Mary Genis, Artistic Director of Culturemix Arts and Member of the Reading 2012 Partnership Board, and Simon Edgley, Managing Director at Trinity Mirror Southern.

The readings will be complemented by Earley St Peter's Church Choir.

The evening begins at 6.30pm.

Cllr Deborah Edwards, Mayor of Reading, said: "The concert is a wonderful way of Reading residents entering into the festive spirit. I hope to see a full church joining me and gathering together to celebrate the Nativity at this year's popular Civic Carol Service."

If you would like more information, call (0118) 937 2771.

Battle site medical centre a victim of NHS cutbacks

2011-12-09T15:11:00.001Z

It has been confirmed by the local health authority that the much anticipated medical centre on the Battle Hospital site will not be built. To say this is disappointing would be a massive understatement. For years Battle residents have been waiting for the medical centre and it was something they decided they would like on the former hospital site after being consulted in 2005.

In a press release from NHS Berkshire, financial constraints were given as one of the reasons for abandoning their plans. This is a very real demonstration of how the Tory/Lib Dem's plans for the NHS are effecting the people of Reading already, before the highly damaging health bill is passed. For example the number of patients on waiting lists for more than 18 weeks has risen 153 % in Berkshire West since May 2010.

Battle councillors believe the Primary care Trust (PCT) will sell off the land in West Village for further housing. Battle councillor ChrisMaskell said: “This is a betrayal of the Oxford Road Community. In 2005 we helda series of public meetings and surveyed the entire ward to find out whatpeople wanted to come from the redevelopment of the Battle Hospital site. Theoverwhelming response was that people wanted a medical centre to replace BattleHospital. “

Battle councillor Gul Khan said: “This is a devastating blow to the Oxford Road Community. We believethe Coalition Government is “cleaning up” the NHS in preparation to sell off theprofitable bits to the highest bidders wherever they may be in the world butonly time will tell. However, what we do know is, cuts to the NHS are happeningnow even though the Coalition Government’s NHS reform bill has not yet passedinto legislation. What the PCT is proposing is a disgrace.”

Here is the press release from Reading and District Labour Party about this weekend of action. There will be a stall outside Battle Library from 10-1 tomorrow (Saturday 10 December 2011) and you can sign the petition to drop the bill here:

Reading& District Labour Party Media Release

6 December 2011

“Altogether now - all wewant for Christmas is our NHS!”

Healthcare campaigners will be out and about this weekend inReading in afurther push to force the Government to scrap its Health and Social Care Bill.Talking to shoppers in local shopping centres and leafleting door to door, theywill be highlighting the threats in the Bill, which will undermine the NHS weall need and value so highly.

Reading Lead Councillor for Health Bet Tickner says “It’s vital right now to step up our opposition tothe government’s proposals to make health services a postcode lottery and toput financial pressure on NHS hospitals to take private patients who willqueue-jump even if they are in less need. This is just wrong for the NHS.”

Cllr. Tickner added “All this upheaval is adding to thesevere pressures on our NHS locally, where waiting times are up 153% andfunding is being cut - despite promises from Mr Cameron before the Election.”

Deputy Lead Councillor for Health Matt Rodda says “The costs of this dangerous reorganisation arealready huge - £25 million just for our area and rising. Originally thegovernment said it would cost £2 billion overall - now PCTs are being told toput aside £3.5 billion! At a time when nurses locally have had a £600 pay cut,the RBH is being cut by £60 million and 600 jobs are to go.”

Reading’scampaign, supported by Reading Labour Party and trade unions in the healthcaresector, is part of a nationwide campaign this weekend dubbed All we want for Christmas is our NHSto try and prevent the bill’s final passage from the House of Lords back to theCommons, where Cameron and Lansley, the Health Secretary, will be able to pushit through.

Cllr Gul Khan our candidate for 2012

2011-12-07T10:00:00.000Z

I am very pleased to confirm that Cllr Gul Khan will be standing in Battle ward in May 2012 after Battle Branch Labour party selected him as our candidate.

Gul has lived in Battle ward for many many years and has been one of it's councillors since 2008. He was Mayor in 2010/2011 and is Deputy Mayor this year. Gul is a popular character within the community and works well within our team of councillors. Cllr Chris Maskell and I are delighted he is standing again.

You can view his blog here.

Cow Lane to close again

2011-12-05T09:00:00.000Z

This Christmas the project to replace Cow Lane Bridges will take a huge step forward with the replacement of the bridge closest to Salisbury Road. The road between this junction and the Safestore entrance will be closed from 19 December until 23 January 2012. The road between Safestore and Cardiff road will then be closed 23-30 January 2012 for preparation work on the second bridge.

It will potentially be a difficult time for residents of Battle ward as there will be disruption to traffic flow however it will be for a huge benefit once the bridges are complete, as large vehicles and through traffic will no longer need to use the Oxford Road.

This video very neatly shows the improvements to the station and, near the end, Cow Lane Bridges!

You can check if your train journey will be disrupted here. You can also visit the Network Rail pages for this project here.

You can even go and watch the bridge being moved into place from a viewing platform in the Dairy Crest yard on Boxing Day.

I am going to try and go along. I will never forget watching a bridge being pushed under the main line to London. It was part of the Maidenhead flood defences. They ran wires through the railway embankment to freeze and stabilise it, dug the bank away and pushed the bridge underneath all while the trails continued to run over the top (slowed down though). I saw it as part of my Degree course. Fascinating.....

UPDATE: Just received notification that Cow Lane will be shut between Safestore and Cardiff Road for three nights 8pm until 6am from 5 to 8 December for safety reasons.

Good news for families in need

2011-12-03T10:00:00.000Z

02/12/2011
Reading Borough Council Press Release

Families in need are to benefit from £300,000 worth of extra investment over the next three years as part of a new and expanded Community Family Support Service for Reading.

The Community Family Support Service provides a valuable lifeline for vulnerable families who are struggling to cope due to circumstances. The service sees trusted volunteers go into family homes and provide parents with the skills and confidence they need to eventually help themselves and to turn their lives around.

In recognition of the vital role the Community Family Support plays in Reading, the Local Strategic Partnership has committed a new grant of £300,000 over the next three years to helping vulnerable families who would benefit from the service. Added to the £58,000 a year the service receives from Reading Borough Council, the total funding pot in this key area of work will be £474,000 over the next three years.

The additional money coincides with the re-tendering of the Community Family Support contract this year. A detailed selection process saw a successful 'bidders day' held on June 10, attended by around 50 different organisations. Following a detailed selection process, five organisations met the criteria set. Barnardo's has been selected as the preferred bidder.

The new service delivered by Barnardo's would cover the whole of Reading and is expected to increase the number of families seen by the service by 70%.

As one of two current providers of the Community Family Support Service in Reading, Barnardo's was selected as the preferred bidder for the following reasons:

" A strong ethos of empowering families, reducing dependency and encouraging families to support each other in the long term
" Use of an evidence based-programme which has a proven track record in Reading
" A promise to share their skills and expertise by training other organisations and professionals, which will benefit Reading families beyond the funding period

There are a number of reasons why families may need to access the Community Family Support Service in Reading. They can be parents who are experiencing depression, or who are struggling to cope with their children's behaviour for example.

Under the Barnardo's-run service, trained volunteers who visit these families aim to provide them with the skills and confidence they need to help them help themselves. Close-knit communities will eventually get to know and trust a number of experienced volunteers. It is hoped this approach will reduce dependency in the longer term and, in some cases, it is also hoped families who benefit from the service which eventually also be able to help out neighbours who are struggling with similar problems.

John Ennis, Reading's Lead Councillor for Education and Children's Services, said: 'Barnardo's has run a smaller version of the support service in Reading for the last 3 years and I know they have had lots of positive feedback from families in that time. As the additional money going into it shows, this is a vital area of work for the Council. I'm very much looking forward to working closely with Barnado's on a new expanded service which will look to benefit even more vulnerable families in our town.

'I'd also like to place on record my thanks to Home-Start for the huge difference they have made to vulnerable families in Reading over the many years they have helped to run this important service.'

A Decision Book on the proposed new Community Family Support Service is to be published on Friday December 2.

If the Decision Book is passed, it is proposed Barnardo's is expected to start the new contract quickly, given they already have a service in place in Reading. Expansion of that service will take place over the next few months. Home-Start staff will also be given the opportunity to transfer across to the Barnardo's service if they choose to.

Are we heading for a drought?

2011-12-01T21:46:00.001Z

Drought is usually something we consider in the summer months if the weather has been glorious but it seems Reading may be at risk of drought now. It's dark, gloomy and feels like autumn so how come we don't have enough water?

Thinking back to the last year is hasn't been that wet really. Dull, yes. Cool, yes but wet? No. The water we drink and use around the home has to come from somewhere and that somewhere is rain. It rains into rivers, reservoirs, onto the ground and onto man-made surfaces. Rain that falls onto the ground seeps through the soil and underlying rock and is held as groundwater or in aquifers. Thames Water can then collect this water for our consumption. If it isn't replenished we face drought (see this story from the BBC).

What can we do? There are some simple water saving methods:

Turn of the tap while brushing your teeth.
Fit a water saving device into your toilet cistern.
Use only the water you need while cooking and making drinks.
Use a watering can rather than a hose for the garden.
Install free water saving devices from Thames water which can be ordered here.

I just used the water usage calculator on Thames Waters website and was relieved to be told we are a very low water user using approximately 312 litres a day while the average is 656 litres a day. We could do better as our outside usage is high. For example we have a water butt which is yet to be connected and I am going to make sure it's hooked up by the end of the year (fear of messing up the down pipe has prevented it's connection so far). I already use water saving gel in the garden so I am part of the way there. Phew!

The truth about N30 - todays strike action

2011-11-30T10:30:00.000Z

Here is a video of those striking in Reading and their concerns for their futures.One day of action to try and protect potentially 30+ years of retirement. The Government say they need to make these changes because of the economic situation. Will they improve public sector workers pensions when the economy picks up? Highly unlikely....

Council to Submit Multi-Million Pound Lottery Bid For New Abbey Quarter

2011-11-29T10:30:00.000Z

Reading Borough Council Press Release

Reading Borough Council is to submit an application to the Heritage Lottery Fund next week for £6.7m to create an Abbey Quarter for the town..

Reading's bid to the HLF will transform Reading 's historic heart, conserving and promoting this nationally significant heritage, to encourage more visitors and investment in the area. It will also create opportunities for people to participate and learn about their heritage whilst enjoying this hidden gem right in the town centre.

A new Abbey Quarter would pull together a number of important historic sites, buildings and structures. It would include conservation and stabilisation work to the Abbey Ruins, Abbey Gateway and other historic elements including St Laurence's Churchyard and wall, the 1943 air raid memorial, Reading war memorial, and Queen Victoria's statue.

There will be site-wide interpretation for the first time, giving people access to 1,000 years of heritage. This will be through information boards, mobile phone apps and photographs telling the history of the site, and maximising the appreciation and enjoyment of the Abbey Quarter's heritage through creative and learning opportunities.

Another aspiration behind the lottery bid is to transform the ground floor of Reading Museum to become the orientation point and learning hub for the Abbey Quarter and also for Reading 's history. This will provide in-depth information using traditional and digital inter-actives and have more Reading artefacts on display.

There would be learning opportunities for visitors of all ages through a programme of both school and life-long learning courses and increased opportunities for volunteering in all aspects of the heritage work. In addition, two apprenticeship posts would be created one in traditional building skills and the other in heritage and museum skills.

There will also be viewing areas located around the site so people can observe specialists at work as the Abbey Quarter takes shape.

The proposals are estimated to cost around £7.5million. This includes an £850k contribution from Reading Borough Council that has already been identified, the majority of which has been secured from section 106 agreements:- contributions towards leisure and environmental improvements from new developments in the area.

The Council has been working on the proposals for a new Abbey Quarter for two years and an independent board, representing heritage groups, Reading Youth Cabinet, councillors and community representatives, was established to oversee the fundraising and conservation process for the Quarter. .

In April 2012, the Council will find out whether this first stage application has been successful and if the HLF will invite it to make a more detailed application for grant funding. If successful, work could start on site in the summer of 2013.

Councillor Marian Livingston, Chair of the Abbey Quarter Board, said: 'The Council and Abbey Quarter Board has put in a great deal of work behind this bid to the HLF to create a new Abbey Quarter for Reading, which, if the funding is approved, will provide fantastic cultural and learning opportunities for many people for years to come.

'The Abbey Ruins is an important historical site and we want to preserve that. People will be able to find out about progress of the creation of the quarter and be involved in a number of volunteering opportunities that will come up throughout the project. There will be many learning opportunities and it will attract a real visitor hub for people coming to the town.'

In November 2010, HLF announced it was increasing its allocation for major projects from £20million a year to £30million a year and reducing the match-funding applicants must raise for projects from 25% to 10%..

Reading Abbey is designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument and is recognised both locally and nationally as an important and significant historical site, other official designations within the Quarter also include Grade I listings for Abbey Ruins, Abbey Gateway and St Laurence's church; Grade II* for Reading Town Hall, the archway tunnel connecting The Forbury Gardens to the Abbey Ruins and Simeon Monument; numerous Grade II buildings and structures. The Forbury Gardens is also a Registered Victorian public pleasure garden. The project is essential to preserve its legacy.

Concessions introduced for bulky waste collection

2011-11-28T10:30:00.000Z

As a councilllor I spend a lot of my time reporting dumped and fly-tipped items to the council for collection. If I see something when I am out with the boys or on the bus I make a note/take a photo and report it. I also get contacted by residents about abandoned items, like mattresses and sofas.


A bed in Gordon Place

It is important the streets are kept clean but these things shouldn't be dumped in the first place. They should be taken to the tip, given to charity/recycled if appropriate or residents should arrange for their collection and disposal.

Recently the cost of the Councils collection service may have proved too high for some after the two free collections for concessionary 'Your Reading Passport' holders were removed by the previous administration. Tonight, at Cabinet, the Labour administration are proposing to introduce a 25% discount for concessionary 'Your Reading Passport' holders. This means that for elderly, disabled or residents on low incomes, the cost of the collection of up to 5 items or a fridge/freezer from a doorstep will be reduced to £24.68p and for the collection of 6 to 10 items the cost would be reduced to £32.03.

New reward and loyalty scheme for Reading residents

2011-11-25T10:30:00.000Z

There are a lot of great initiatives going to council Cabinet on Monday. Here is the press release for proposals to revamp 'Your Reading Passport' with rewards for people who frequently use Reading Borough Councils sport and leisure facilities, libraries and arts and entertainment venues.

"Money Saving Incentives For Residents

21/11/2011
Reading Borough Council Press Release

Money saving incentives for Reading residents could be introduced if a new reward and loyalty scheme gets the go-ahead from councillors.

Savings and rewards will be available in all Reading sport and leisure centres, libraries and arts and entertainment venues – including The Hexagon and South Street - if proposals are agreed by the Council's Cabinet on Monday, November 28.

The reward and loyalty scheme works by collecting points on the Your Reading Passport when you take part in particular culture and leisure activities. The more people who participate in particular activities, the more points they will earn, resulting in bigger discounts for future use.

As part of the proposals, which follow a detailed review of the scheme, free swimming in the school holidays for under 16s with a YRP card would be continued and concessionary rates for the Council's pest control service and bulky waste collection service would be reintroduced.

Marian Livingston, Lead Councillor for Culture and Sport, said: 'I am delighted that we have been able to propose even more benefits with the Your Reading Passport Scheme. The changes being proposed provide some great opportunities for residents to utilise these benefits right across Reading. As well as maintaining existing savings, we have been able to extend the concessions to bring back savings on bulky waste and pest control services."

Paul Gittings, Lead Councillor for Environment and Climate Change, said: 'With the Olympic and Paralympic Games coming to the country next year and also the Olympic torch coming to Reading borough in July, there has never been a better time for people of all ages to take part in cultural and sporting activities in Reading. These proposals will provide an added incentive for people to get involved.'

The Your Reading Passport scheme was launched in 2004, updating and replacing the Passport to Leisure scheme which had been running since 1987. It is a combined discount and library card, available free and exclusively to residents of Reading borough. It is used on the spot at ten locations around Reading.

There are two categories available through Your Reading Passport membership:

- YRP general membership: for residents of Reading and those aged 3 years and over

- YRP concessionary membership: for residents of Reading and either: aged 60 years or over, people who have a disability or be permanently incapacitated by ill health, or on low income/unemployed.

The Council's Cabinet meeting will take place in the Kennet Room of the Civic Offices, and starts at 6.30pm."

Charging for dumped trolleys......

2011-11-23T10:30:00.000Z

Dumped trolleys have been a problem around Reading, and in Battle ward, for many years. Things got worse when Tesco opened in 2008. Despite the automatic wheel locks, Tesco trolleys were found all over the place and residents and councillors were very cross about it.

Earlier this year they finally introduced a £1 deposit scheme. Things improved but I still see Tesco trolleys, along with ASDA and Waitrose, in the streets and parks. The supermarkets do collect them if they are told about them but this is usually just once a week.

The Labour administration of Reading Borough Council are now proposing to charge supermarkets for the collection, storage and return of their rogue trollies. I see no reason why the Council should collect and store trollies for free, as is currently the case. Councillors Gul Khan, Chris Maskell and myself welcome this proposal and hope we will see fewer and fewer trolleys scattered around Battle ward.

Council press release:

"Proposed Charges for Dumped Shopping Trolleys

21/11/2011
Reading Borough Council Press Release

Reading Borough Council is proposing to charge supermarkets and convenience stores for abandoned shopping trolleys that are dumped around the town.

Keeping the town clean and tidy and respecting the environment were key issues raised by residents during the Council's 'We Need To Talk' consultation initiative. Discarded shopping trolleys, particularly when they are abandoned on pavements, parkland, beauty spots or in waterways, are the cause of a large number of complaints by local residents each year.

The Council already contacts the owners of abandoned trolleys, requesting them to retrieve their property. If they fail to do so, Council staff remove the trolleys. This has significant cost implications, both in terms of staff hours and disposal fees. So in future, the Council is proposing to charge supermarkets and convenience stores for recovering, storing, returning of disposing of the items.

Proposed charges would be as follows:

• Removal: £15 per trolley
• Storage: £7.50 per week or part week
• Return the trolley to the business: £15 per trolley
• Disposal: £50 per trolley

A report including the proposals will be going to a meeting of Reading Borough Council's Cabinet on November 28 for approval to begin a consultation process with interested parties. If approved businesses affected will be invited to have their say on the proposals before a final decision is made.

Paul Gittings, Reading's Lead Councillor for Environment and Climate Change, said: 'Unsightly dumped shopping trolleys are a blight on local areas and it is only fair that businesses who do not put in place appropriate measures to collect them have to pay for their retrieval.'

Shopping trolleys dumped on pavements can be an obstruction for pedestrians as well as in some cases causing damage to parked cars. When dumped in rivers they can also damage boats and be harmful to wildlife.

The Environmental Protection Act 1990 allows local councils to remove abandoned shopping trolleys from their land and recover subsequent costs. After removal a notice must then be served on the owner of the trolley within 14 days. If the owner claims the trolley it must be returned but only after the Council's charges have been paid. If the trolley is not claimed by the business, the Council may dispose of the trolley after a period of six weeks and may charge the owner for the subsequent costs of disposal."

Discounts back to fight Readings rats

2011-11-20T10:52:00.001Z

A proposal to reduce the cost of pest control, and re-introduce concessions for the elderly, disabled and those on low incomes (through the Your Reading Passport scheme), is to be put before Reading Borough Council cabinet on November 28. It has become clear that the price rises made by the previous administration made the service unaffordable.

I have been contacted by a few residents in Battle about vermin and suggested they contact the council but the price of the service was a barrier. These new, reduced, charges should enable people to seek assistance and get their problem under control.

"Discounts to be Reinstated for Council's Pest Control Service

18/11/2011

Press Release

Discounts for Reading residents who want to make use of the Council's pest control services to get rid of rats or mice look set to be reinstated.

In January 2011 fees charged by the Council's pest control service for a 3-visit course of treatment increased significantly. From being either free to elderly, disabled and residents on low incomes, or just £25-£30 for all other Reading residents, they increased to a cost of £114 for everyone, with no concessions offered. All prices include VAT.

The price increases have resulted in a big drop in requests for treatment - from around 600 a year to just 7 a month on average – making the current pest control service financially unviable. The Council and councillors have also received feedback from the public unhappy with the price increase.

As a result the current administration is now proposing to reinstate discounts for pest control services offered by Reading Borough Council.

The new cost of a 3-visit course of treatment would be £45 for concessionary 'Your Reading Passport' holders, and £70 for all other Reading residents. The prices include VAT and would be effective from January 2012.*(see Notes To Editors)

The proposals will go to a meeting of Reading Borough Council's Cabinet on November 28 for approval, as part of the Council's wider review of fees and charges. ** (see Notes To Editors)

Paul Gittings, Reading's Lead Councillor for Environment and Climate Change, said: "Given the dramatic fall-off in use of the Council's expert in-house service, we felt it necessary to introduce a much more realistic pricing structure, with concessionary elements re-introduced. We will continue to closely monitor the situation to make sure residents' interests are best served."

While Reading Borough Council provides a pest control service to residents, it is a non–statutory service and the national picture is varied, with some local authorities offering no pest control service at all and others offering subsidised services for vulnerable groups only.

If approved, the proposed cut in treatment prices in Reading is intended to run parallel with a more strategic approach to the treatment of rats and mice across the town. This could include the promotion of environmental control methods available to residents such as filling gaps, undertaking drainage repairs and the removal of food sources, where rats or mice have become a problem.

Examples include:
• Private Sector Renewal Policy grants available for owner occupiers on means tested benefits to carry out small repairs
• The availability of a 'handyman' scheme funded by the Council to those aged over 60 who could carry out small repairs such as pest proofing, for the cost of labour and materials.
• The possibility of Council enforcement action against landlords if living conditions are considered to be a hazard
• For council tenants, the Property Services team to undertake investigation and repairs where necessary

Changes to drainage legislation which came into effect last month saw private sewers move from being the responsibility of property owners to that of the statutory water undertaker. In Reading's case this is Thames Water. This change means it will become easier to investigate infestations where there is a link to drainage. The report to Cabinet on November 28 raises the issue of closer working with Thames Water where drainage is thought to be an issue. "

Mayor packing bags at Tesco?

2011-11-16T14:05:00.001Z

Despite some accusations of being anti-Tesco, it is my local supermarket and the one I use most, mainly because I can walk there with the pram. With that in mind, this press release from Reading Borough Council made me smile. Imagine having your bags packed by the Mayor, Cllr Deborah Edwards! Cllr Edwards is working ever so hard to raise money for the Mayors Fund so why not take advantage and raise some money in the process?

"Mayor Steps Up Fundraising at Local Supermarket

16/11/2011

Press Release

Shoppers at Tesco's Portman Road branch might see a familiar face at the tills next week as Reading's Mayor Debs Edwards steps up her fundraising campaign.

Cllr Edwards, along with representatives from the six charities she is supporting during her term of office, will be packing bags at the tills for three days. She will also be in the store for a further three days with charity collection buckets and selling her unique Mayor's Fund wristbands.

The Mayor has set herself an ambitious target of raising £60k to support her chosen charities which all involve children, families and vulnerable people. They are Plan UK International, NSPCC, Berkshire Women's Aid, Albert Road Day Centre, Launchpad and the YMCA.

She will be collecting cash from Monday November 21st to Wednesday November 23rd, and then bag packing from November 24th to 26th.

Speaking about the marathon fundraising bid, Cllr Edwards said: "I'm hoping big-hearted Reading people will dig deep into their pockets to help me raise much needed funds for these charities which do such fantastic work to help the more vulnerable members of our society. All these charities, along with many more, are feeling the effects of the current climate and any support is so gratefully received.

Natalie Harrison, Tesco Reading West Community Champion, said: "We are delighted to help support the Mayor of Reading with her charity. We really believe in this project and hope to raise a lot of money from our store."

It's not the first time Tesco has backed the Mayor's fundraising. Earlier this month the store presented a cheque for £1,000 to Albert Road Day Centre."

UPDATED: Working Better With You - The Future......

2011-11-14T10:00:00.000Z

UPDATE: I have just got back from the 'Working Better With You - The Future' event at the Town Hall. It was very well attended and started with an overview of feedback so far and an explanation of how the evening was to run. There were ten working groups but, rather than their theme being pre-determined, the topics for each group came from the floor.

I visited a couple of groups, one discussing libraries and the other old and young getting together in the community. Feedback from the event will be on the councils website shortly. It will make interesting reading, I'm sure.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
This video, from the Reading Borough Council YouTube channel, beautifully explains the Let's Talk events that have happened and invites you to the 'Working Better With You - The Future' event.

It is at the Town Hall on Thursday 24th November 2011 at 5.30pm and is for you to hear about the views that have been gathered so far.

Whether or not you have already been a part of the programme by joining one of the Let’s Talk events, or completing a questionnaire, this is your opportunity to get involved. More information, and the on-line booking form, can be found here.

Hope to see you there!

Here is the Council's press release and a bit more information:

"Reading's Top Priorities to be Revealed

09/11/2011

Press Release

The results of one of the biggest consultations ever seen in Reading will be revealed at a special community event in the Town Hall on November 24.

Invites to the event are being sent to community groups right across the borough and other residents are also being invited to attend.

Places are limited so people are urged to put their names down by using the Council's booking form at www.reading.gov.uk/letstalkevents, email communications@reading.gov.uk or phone 0118 937 2098. Return slips are also being sent out in letters to community groups for them to register to attend the event.
Earlier this year Reading Borough Council launched a new way of working with local people, aimed at building long-lasting relationships with local residents and providing new opportunities to influence Council decisions and services. The 'We Need to Talk' public engagement initiative focused on the difficult decisions facing the council in the current economic climate and gave local people the chance to have their say on the issues that matter most to them and their communities.

Starting in the summer, the Council posed a number of key questions relating to the services it provides and people were asked to respond by completing questionnaires or visiting the Council website. There were also more than 30 daytime and evening community workshops spread across the borough's 16 wards.
Hundreds of responses have been received and Council officers have been busy analysing the results, which will be unveiled at the 'Working Better With You – The Future' event.

The feedback begins at 6pm on Thursday November 24. The top priorities as listed by local residents will then be announced and people attending will then be invited to split into different groups to discuss key themes in more detail.

Bet Tickner, Lead Cllr for Public Engagement, said: "Residents have responded positively to our consultation. It's time now to take things forward in terms of feedback to community groups and residents on the results of that exercise, the main themes emerging from what they said and their response when we ask the question: `Have we got it right in how we're planning to take forward what you've said?".
With public spending being reduced there are difficult budget decisions to be taken over the next few years. It is therefore more important than ever to listen to people's views on how the Council should spend their money. The Council has asked residents about the things that are important in their local communities, what they like and what they think can be improved.

Reading Borough Council believes services can work better and be more responsive if the people of Reading are more involved in how they are run. This programme – 'Reading: Working Better With You' - now underpins everything the council does."

In Remembrance

2011-11-11T08:30:00.000Z

Two ceremonies take place today to remember the men and women who have sacrificed their lives in defence of this country.

Reading's Mayor Councillor Deborah Edwards will lead a two minute silence at the Forbury War Memorial at 11am.

This is the first time this has happened and follows the Council unanimously supporting a resolution put forward by Cllr Chris Maskell on behalf of The Royal British Legion. He said: 'The Council believes the people of Reading, in line with a request from The Royal British Legion, should be given the opportunity to gather for remembrance in a formal setting."

And Deputy Mayor Councillor Gul Khan will lead a two minute silence outside the Civic Offices, also at 11am.

Everyone is welcome to join in the two minute silence at either event later today.

New non-emergency number for Thames Valley Police

2011-11-10T16:12:00.000Z

This was brought to the Oxford Road NAG (Neighbourhood Action Group) on Tuesday. Please read and share:

'The Thames Valley Police non-emergency number is due to change. On 14th November 2011 the new number will be 101. This is the new national single non-emergency number and replaces the 0845 8 505 505 number. Both numbers will run side by side until the end of March 2012, but if demand for the 0845 8 505 505 number drops it may be discontinued earlier.

How will it work?

When you call 101, the system will determine your location and connect you to the police force covering that area. A recorded message will announce which police force you are being connected to. If you are on a boundary between two or more forces, the recorded message will give you a choice of which force to be connected to.

Police call handlers will then answer the calls and respond appropriately. You will not be put through to a large national call centre.

Calls to 101 (from both landlines and mobile networks) cost 15 pence per call, no matter what time of day the call is made, or the duration of the call.'

Reading Abbey: Sites of Significance & Abbey Quarter

2011-11-07T14:51:00.000Z

Sometimes people accuse Reading of lacking culture and heritage - how wrong can they be? Reading is packed with history as this video shows. Reading Borough Council have applied to the Heritage Lottery Fund to develop the Abbey Quarter. Please have a look at the plans and lend your support for this exciting project.

Recently I was lucky enough to go on one of the very popular tours of the ruins and heard all about the plans and ongoing conservation work. I am the one with the red coat and white hard hat in the picture on Reading Museums page about the project. There is a feedback form on the project - I've already done mine.

Getting involved - Transport

2011-11-01T09:18:00.000Z

On Thursday (3 November) the Transport Management Advisory Panel (TMAP) meets at 6.30 in the Council Chamber. The first hour of this meeting is open to public participation like the former Transport Users Forum was. Member of the public can ask questions on transport related issues. There is quite often a presentation and discussion following. Anyone can come along to this meeting.

Once this first part has finished, the TMAP continues. The public can stay if they wish, although this part is for councillor participation only. Members of the public can ask questions during this meeting and petitions can also be formally presented. . They need to be submitted four working days in advance, and in writing. Further information on who to write to can be given to you by the council.

The agenda can be viewed here and gives you an idea of the items for debate. This is my second year on this panel, and I am vice-chair. I have found it very interesting.

This is just one of the many ways you can get involved with the council. Further information on other committees can be found here.

Council forums and working groups are re-launched as Labour says “Let’s talk”

2011-10-22T20:51:00.002+01:00

Reading & District Labour Party press release:

Since regaining control of the Council in May, the newLabour administration has moved fast to re-launch and re-invigorate theconsultative forums that the Conservative/LibDem Coalition had axed as part ofits budget savings.

The Coalition Cabinet voted in November 2010 to scrap thePensioners Working Group, Access Forum, Ethnic Minorities Forum, Green City& Open Spaces Forum, Transport Users Forum, Arts Forum, Sports DevelopmentForum and the Safer Reading Neighbourhood Action Group Forum, but, says JonHartley, Lead Councillor for Transforming Services, the new Labouradministration has either re-established them or replaced them with newexpanded consultative forums, covering the costs by cutting the servicing ofinternal meetings.

Lead Councillor for Community Care Mike Orton held a consultativemeeting for older people on 9 September, about 100 people came and said theywanted to have a real say in Council decisions affecting them, so Mike Orton isproposing to the Council meeting on 18 October the formation of a new OlderPeople’s Working Group to take this forward.

At the same Council meeting and following similar pressure from areconvened Access Forum in July, Cllr. Pete Ruhemann will be proposing that theForum be renamed the Access & Disabilities Working Group with new andexpanded Terms of Reference.

There was a very positive and productive first meeting of theArts Forum, chaired by Cllr. Sarah Hacker, on 13 September and it was decidedthe forum will have a relaxed agenda going forward with talks, meetings held invarious venues and a chance to share events and information within the artscommunity of Reading.

Cllr. Paul Gittings has held a first meeting of thereconvened Sports Development Forum and further meetings are planned leading upto the Olympics 2012. Cllr. Rachel Edenhas chaired two meetings of the Safer Reading Neighbourhood Action Forum, attendedby NAG chairs, Council officers and senior police officers, and working on thereduction of crime and anti-social behaviour.

The Ethnic Minorities Forum has also been reconvened and is workingtowards a new structure for the future; a special meeting of the Green Cityand Open Spaces Forum is being planned; and the Transport Users’ Forum is nowmeeting for an hour before each meeting of the Traffic Management AdvisoryPanel which makes recommendations to Cabinet.

Cllr. Hartley says: “Since forming the newadministration, Labour has been determined to listen to and work withdifferent stakeholder groups and make sure their voices were heard,especially in these difficult times. In contrast to last year's coalition,we’ve been developing new and innovative ways of making the Council workbetter with local people.”

Support Gurkhas - petition and council motion

2011-10-19T11:18:00.000+01:00

Last night we had a full council meeting. This gives the opportunity for members of the public to present petitions and ask questions. Councillors can also ask questions, debate and vote on reports and recommendations from committee and debate and pass motions on various subjects.

One of the motions passed last night, with unanimous support was as follows:

Moved by Cllr Chris Maskell

"This Council, which agreed in June 2008 to support the Reading-based British Gurkha Ex-Servicemen's Association's campaign for Gurkhas' rights and in particular the right to remain for servicemen discharged before 1 July 1997, and sought and obtained support for many other Councils for that position, regrets that Gurkha servicemen discharged before 1 July 1997 are still being discriminated against in terms of their pensions and that they, and their widows, are being denied parity with other British and Commonwealth ex-servicemen.

This Council therefore declares its support for the Gurkha's campaign for pension parity and urges the Mayor of Reading, the party leaders, and the Members of Parliament for Reading to sign the e-petition on the direct-gov website."

An amendment was put forward from the Greens, and accepted so, in addition to the above motion:

"This Council also instructs the Chief Executive to write to all other councils in the United Kingdom asking them to support the campaign for pension parity and asking them to invite the petition organisers to their area to conduct the petition."

Please sign the e-petition that can be found here and share it with your friends and family.

Out and about with Reading RESCUE

2011-10-14T11:21:00.002+01:00

I have just got back from a very enjoyable 1 1/2 hours litter picking along the Thames towpath from the Roebuck hotel to Scours Lane. I was working with a really friendly team from Blandy and Blandy and I would like to thank them for having me along. It was part of the latest Reading RESCUE project.

We founds all sorts but mainly beer cans, cigarette and crisp packets although there were some odd finds.

Unfortunately we also found evidence of drug use in a small unused building and this has been reported. I had to leave early as I had a meeting but the team from Blandy and Blandy carried on towards Rivermead. This is what we collected in the section I helped with:

Reading RESCUE is an excellent project and I look forward to joining in with future events. Here is a link to the press release about this successful event.

Tesco Express Oxford Road plans rejected!!!!

2011-10-12T22:00:00.003+01:00

Just heard the great news that the Tesco application at Parsons Garage on the Oxford Road has been rejected. Residents and local businesses were very concerned about the impact this store would have on their lives and livelihoods.

There was a planning meeting held this evening where Cllr Chris Maskell spoke against this proposed store highlighting concerns about increased noise and traffic. The site is on a very busy section of the Oxford Road next to a crossing, school and bus stop. Any increase in car journeys would have had a very negative effect on the quality of lives and safety of residents and those taking children to and from Oxford Road Community School. I spoke at the last planning meeting asking for rejection based on safety concerns and the impact on local businesses.

Many residents and businesses put a lot of time and effort into opposing these plans and they should be congratulated. Labour councillors have also worked hard putting together a case for rejection. This is a fantastic example of what can be achieved when a community works together. Well done folks!

Garden review of the year

2011-10-09T18:02:00.000+01:00

October has begun and the garden is shutting down. It's been a funnygrowing season with a very warm start, disappointing middle and hot end. At least there wasn't much watering to do.

My raspberries that fruited again in the late autumn heat!

My successes, once again, were the raspberries. I got loads of themearly in the season. I am going to halve my existing canes and get someautumn ones to extend the season. I also got a good handful ofblueberries in my first year with the new bushes. The carrots did well introughs and the potatoes OK in pots. The most prolific being the varietyVivaldi. The strawberries did well but I think I moved them too late andI expect next year to be better.

There were a few disappointments. The courgettes were duff. Itried a more compact variety this year, Midnight I believe, but they goteaten by slugs then got mildew. I may go back to Defender nextyear. The cabbages also got eaten (by caterpillars I think) and thespring onions never really got going. I did peas in containers but theydried out (that is just laziness on my part). I used organic slug pelletsthis year but they didn't work fast enough so I am going to try nematodes nextyear. I also can't bring myself to squish caterpillars so maybe some sortof covering for the cabbages.

The trees did OK. We had a few cherries, a couple of apples (that felloff and got slugged) and the nectarine produced fruit but it split.

Tiny nectarines.

I plan to get a few more trees. I only have a smallish garden so I am goingto get them on dwarfing rootstock and keep them in large pots. I reckonanother cherry (to cross-pollinate with the one I have and hopefully producemore cherries), a plum and a pear.

Any tips for good varieties and gardening in general are welcome. Thegarden is north facing and is shaded by the house November to March (we havealready lost most of the sun). It also appears to be a haven for slugsand snails (any control method must be baby friendly). The soil is good,if a bit stoney.

I shan't give up. Each year teaches me new things. I may do afew beans next year and definitely some tomatoes, but at the right time. I have some out there now but they are unlikely to ripen. I shall waternext years peas and the nectarine trees - lesson learnt there!

I have flowers too - my flower border with veg at the end.

What a week!

2011-09-30T20:01:00.000+01:00

I was trying to think what to post about after such a busy week then it struck me - why not talk about the week I have had? Being a councillor is a very varied role, one which I am really enjoying. Not all weeks are like this one but it does give a good snapshot!

Monday - Not council related but to do with my role as a Learning Rep with Unite the Union; I had a brief meeting to discuss some ideas for learning related activities at work. In the evening I had a governors meeting at Oxford Road community school, where I am a Local Authority governor then a Battle branch meeting where Labour members in Battle ward get together to discuss local and national issues.

Tuesday - Work and then the Oxford Road Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) meeting. It was a public meeting where the new priorities were announced. Councillors from Battle and Abbey attended. It was interesting to hear what concerns the local residents have and they will be something we work with the NAG and local police to tackle. The list is here.

Wednesday - I should have attended an Internal Scrutiny meeting but the heavy cold my son had given me prevented me from going. There was me hoping for a picture or painting from his nursery, I just got given a cold, sore throat and dizziness!

Thursday - The first of the Battle Let's Talk events. A fun session. I built a toilet out of the Lego provided to represent the under-use of Kensington Park because it doesn't have toilet/changing facilities.

Friday - The second and final Let's Talk event. Different from the first as they are directed by those who attend. This time I made a Lego garden to represent the hidden potential of front gardens/balconies in Battle that could be turned into floral displays or used to grow veggies. I mentioned that I remembered fruit and veg shows in Caversham when I was a young girl and it would be fun to have something like that again - maybe a front garden competition to tie into Reading In Bloom along with you classic giant leek/funny shaped carrot comps.

Saturday (tomorrow as I write this) - New governor training. The role of school governor is an important one and this training should help me develop my role. I am then taking my eldest to a birthday party and, once home, collapsing onto the sofa and watching Strictly Come Dancing. Gutted to be missing the town meal in Forbury gardens (what amazing weather for it) and the Zumba taster sessions.

In amongst all this I have been dealing with residents queries and reporting various dumped items I notice on my travels within the ward (mattress on Wantage Rd and Alma Street for example). A busy week indeed, but an enjoyable one.

Oxford Road NAG public meeting - open to all

2011-09-22T20:10:00.002+01:00

The Oxford Road Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) meets on a regular basis and is attended by local residents groups, clubs, community teams, the neighbourhood policing team, Reading Borough Council officers and councillors. I try to go as often as I can as it's a useful forum for sharing concerns and information.

The NAG has been running a residents survey over the last few months both on paper and online. There will be a public meeting next Tuesday (27 September) 7.30-9 at Oxford Road Community School where they will announce the top three priorities identified by the survey.

The NAG does a lot of work in the community, for example litter picking and tidying the Central pool carpark, working with the council and police about safety concerns in Kensington Park and a recent tidy up based around the YMCA.

Please do come along.

We Need To Talk - Your Invitation

2011-09-14T16:07:00.002+01:00

The council 'We Need To Talk' conversation is continuing, this time with a series of events throughout the town attended by the council and your local councillors. There will be small group activities designed to identify the things that matter most to you and your community.

I will be attending the sessions at Battle Library:

29 September 7-9 pm &
30 September 1-3 pm

To book your place please call 0118 937 3787 or visit www.reading.gov.uk/letstalkevents

Here is the press release with further information on events all over Reading as you don't have to go to the event in your ward if it's not convenient:

'A series of consultation workshops spread across the borough begins later this month and marks the next stage in Reading Borough Council's on-going 'We Need To Talk' campaign.

Residents are being invited to attend one of the events which involve informal, small group activities, designed to tease-out the things that matter most to people in their own communities, the council services that are most valued, and how local people can work with each other and the council to improve the places in which they live.

With public spending being reduced there are difficult budget decisions to be taken over the next few years. It is therefore more important than ever to listen to people's views on how the Council should spend their money.

Feedback from the events will be added to the views that hundreds of residents have already provided via the on-going Council leaflet and website campaign. These will be analysed to identify common themes and the results will be used to help shape council spending decisions that will need to be made over the coming months.

The consultation events have been arranged to ensure everyone in the borough can have easy access to them, with a choice of day-time or evening events in each of the borough's 16 wards. All residents need to do is to register their interest in the event which suits them best, either by telephoning 0118 937 3783 or on-line at www.reading.gov.uk/letstalkevents, and then turn up on the day to make their views count.

Jon Hartley, Reading's Lead Councillor for Service Delivery and Improvement, said: 'These events will play an important part in helping us to gather as many views as possible. We always said we didn't just want this to be a box ticking exercise - this is a new way of engaging with residents and I'd ask as many people as possible to try and find the time to attend.'

Bet Tickner, Lead Councillor at Reading for Public Engagement and Health, said: 'We hope that by attending an event we will be able to help residents focus on which services are important in the local communities and how they can be better delivered.'

The full timetable of events is:

Central
• 27 September from 12.00-2.00pm at Katesgrove Children's Centre, Waterloo Meadows, Elgar Road, RG2 0BN
• 27 September from 7.00-9.00pm at Christchurch Centre, Milman Road, RG2 0AY
• 29 September from 7.00-9.00pm at Battle Library, 420 Oxford Road, RG30 1EE
• 29 September from 1.00-3.00pm at Coley Park Baptist Church, Wensley Road, RG1 6DU
• 30 September from 1.00-3.00pm at Battle Library, 420 Oxford Road, RG30 1EE
• 3 October from 7.00-9.00pm at All Saints Hall, Downshire Square, RG1 6NN
• 4 October from 1.00-3.00pm in the Kennet Room, Civic Offices, RG1 7AE
• 4 October from 7.00-9.00pm at Wesley Church Hall, Queens Road, RG1 7BW

North
• 4 October from 12.00-2.00pm at Mapledurham Pavilion, 129 Upper Woodcote Road, RG4 7EZ
• 5 October from 1.00-3.00pm & 7.00-9.00pm Milestone Centre, Northbrook Road, Caversham Park Village, RG4 6QH
• 6 October from 7.00-9.00pm Caversham Primary School, Hemdean Road, Caversham, RG4 7RA
• 6 October from 1.00-3.00pm at Caversham Hall, St Johns Road, Caversham, RG4 8BD
• 6 October from 7.00-9.00pm at Caversham Methodist Church Hall, Gosbrook Road, Caversham, RG4 8BS

South
• 30 September from 1.00-3.00pm at New Directions, 330 Northumberland Avenue, Whitley, RG2 8DH
• 3 October from 1.00-3.00pm & 7.00-9.00pm at the Scout & Guide HQ, 163 Northcourt Avenue, RG2 7HG
• 6 October from 7.00-9.00pm at Whitley Wood Community Centre, Swallowfield Drive, RG2 8UT

East
• 29 September from 12.30-2.30pm & 7.00-9.00pm at Hamilton Road Children's' Centre, 135 Bulmershe Road, RG1 5SG
• 29 September from 1.00-3.00pm & 7.00–9.00pm at Cintra Park Pavilion, Cintra Avenue, RG2 7AU

West
• 28 September from 1.00-3.00pm at St Mary Magdalen Church Hall, LyndhurstRoad, Tilehurst, RG30 6UB
• 28 September from 7.00-9.00pm at Norcot Community Centre, Lyndhurst Road, Tilehurst, RG30 6UB
• 30 September from 1.00-3.00pm & 7.00-9.00pm at St Matthew Church Hall, Southcote Lane, RG30 6AX
• 4 October from 7.00-9.00pm at St Michael's Parish Centre, Routh Lane Tilehurst, RG30 4JX
• 5 October from 1.00-3.00pm at St Michael's Parish Centre, Routh Lane, Tilehurst, RG30 4JX
• 5 October from 1.00-3.00pm at Dee Park Advice Shop, Lyon Square, RG30 4DD
• 5 October from 7.00-9.00pm at Wilson Primary School, Wilson Road, RG30 2RW

In July this year Reading Borough Council launched a new way of working with local people. This is the beginning of a new relationship between the council and residents, which will give people a real and on-going say in how their local communities are run and how the Council delivers services to them. 'We Need To Talk' is the start of that process.

Consultation leaflets distributed across libraries, leisure centres and other community spaces across the town and already hundreds of residents have come forward with their views.

Go to www.reading.gov.uk/weneedtotalk for more and to register your details.'

Battle on Thames?

2011-09-09T21:07:00.000+01:00

No, I'm not suggesting we change the name of the ward to sound fancy, but it's easy to forget how close we are to the Thames in Battle ward. The boys and I walked to feed the ducks during a brief dry day a week or so ago and it only took 20 minutes (at the pace of a 3 year old). We had a lovely time, saw fishermen (and boys), ducks, swans, tiny fish and the preparations for the Reading Festival.

There will be a clean-up of the tow-path happening in October and they are looking for volunteers. Here is the press release with information on how to get involved:

'05/09/2011
Reading Borough Council Press Release

A new environmental clear-up of Reading's waterways is being launched next month.

The clear-up events take place on October 14th and 15th and complement the RESCUE (Rivers and Environmental Spaces Clean Up Event) events which take place every March.

Reading Borough Council and sponsors Thames Water – who are supporting this new event - are keen to hear from businesses, charities, community groups and residents who would like to get involved.

They would also like to hear from groups with an interest in Reading's rivers and canals, or perhaps diving and rowing clubs who use the rivers, to see if they would like to lend a hand. The clear-up initiative is supported by Connect Reading and Oxford Road Community Garden.

During the two days, Thames Water will be concentrating on keeping the towpaths tidy and is looking for support from local businesses.

Paul Gittings, Reading's Lead Councillor for Environment and Climate Change, said: 'After a busy summer on the river the areas can gather litter which is all the more obvious as the leaves die back and this can be a hazard to wildlife. We're keen to hear from people who can spare a bit of time to help us with this vital clean up. We get such a fantastic response to our annual RESCUE event so I'm hoping this new clean up will prove to be just as popular and successful.'

Tracy Sacks, Community Investment and Education Manager for Thames Water, said: "We often take for granted that we live and work beside such a beautiful river. We rely on the Thames and its tributaries for our core business and are very pleased to sponsor RESCUE - our staff will be rolling their sleeves up to help."

To take part or find out more, call 0118 937 2100, contact through the website on www.readingrescue.org.uk, find more on facebook 'Rescue 2011' or email rescue@reading.gov.uk or tweet '@ReadingRESCUE'. Anyone interested in joining in, needs to contact Rescue by September 30th.'

Completely free disabled travel returns to Reading!

2011-09-06T21:43:00.002+01:00

I wrote a post in March about the awful treatment of Readings disabled bus users who were notified they would no longer get free travel before 9.30 on the day the change came into force. Naturally people were outraged, including many Battle residents I spoke to.

This time I am writing a happier post as around 5000 letters go out to disabled bus users and their travel companions to confirm free travel, in Reading, before 9.30 will be reinstated from September 19.

Here is the councils press release:

'Free Bus Travel Reinstated for Disabled and Carers

05/09/2011
Reading Borough Council Press Release

Free unrestricted bus travel for disabled residents and their carers will be fully reinstated later this month.

Over the next few days Reading Borough Council will be writing to the estimated 5,000 disabled residents and carers in the borough to confirm that from Monday September 19 Access Passes and Companion Passes will once again become valid for free bus travel in Reading at anytime of the day or night, seven days a week.

Reading's generous concessionary scheme had been scrapped from April 1st this year, but was reinstated following a change in Administration at Reading Borough Council in May.

Tony Page, Reading's Lead Councillor for Regeneration, Planning and Transport, said: 'This delivers on an early commitment from the new Administration and re-instates the cut which was a part of the budget we inherited. It will be welcome news to the many disabled who are obliged for reasons such as doctors and hospital appointments to travel before 9.30am.'

Disabled residents and carers are asked to note that free bus travel at anytime will apply only to boarding buses within Reading Borough. Free travel upon boarding buses outside Reading Borough will remain available off peak only – that is 09.30 to 22.59 Monday - Friday and anytime on Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays - and is subject to the rules of the National Concessionary Travel Scheme. In some other council areas Companion Passes – which are used by carers to accompany disabled residents - are not accepted at all.

Letters being sent to residents this week will include the new passes which will become operational on Monday September 19. As of that date old passes will no longer work.

Disabled residents and their carers who have any questions or require further information can phone Stephen Wise at Reading Borough Council on 0118 9373948 or stephen.wise@reading.gov.uk'

More resurfacing - Connaught and Cranbury Road

2011-09-03T09:23:00.001+01:00

Cllr Chris Maskell has spent a long time pushing to get Connaught and Cranbury Roads resurfaced as you can see here.

We got confirmation yesterday:

Connaught Road: Surfacing works will start on the 22^nd September and last 1 day. The lining is due to be carried out on Friday 30^th September and the ironworks will be raised during the week commencing 10^th October. The surfacing work will be carried out under a lane closure and temporary traffic management.

Cranbury Road: Surfacing works will start on the 29^th September and last 1 day. The lining is due to be carried out on Wednesday 5^th October and the ironworks will be raised during the week commencing 1^st October. The surfacing work will be carried out under a lane closure and temporary traffic management.

As someone who uses these roads quite often I am fully aware of the state they are in so this is excellent news.

#flashmob1121 - Capture Reading project

2011-08-17T09:45:00.005+01:00

Here is my picture - very domestic - putting away wet shopping. It was taken on my phone as I was in the middle of things:

I am chair of the Arts Forum this year and recently got an email about an interesting project taking place tomorrow. I am going to join in, probably on Twitter initially (using #flashmob1121). Here is the email from Suzanne Stallard of Jelly:
“On the Third Thursday of August, (18.08) as many people as possible who work, live and play in Reading are being invited to take a photo of whatever they are doing or wherever they are in Reading at 11.21am.

This digital, art and heritage event aims to capture images of Reading and Reading people. Using any photographic medium from mobile phone, webcam to digital camera, record what you are doing and upload them to the online site at http://www.flickr.com/groups/capturereading/. We are delighted to also be working in partnership with http://www.historypin.com/reading/ who would like to add any images captured on the day to their project.

Historypin is a way for the world to share their history. People can add photos, videos, audio files and stories to this global communal archive, helping to build up the story of human history. Historypin.com is the main hub of the project, plus there is a free app so people can use their phones to see all the content and interact with the history around them.

Why 11.21?

Reading Abbey was founded in 1121 by the youngest son of William the Conqueror, Henry I, who intended it to be his memorial and burial place. As a Royal foundation it was richly endowed with lands and privileges and drew the focus of the town away from St Mary’s Butts. Many nationally significant events took place at the Abbey, including meetings of parliament and royal visits. Its important relics, particularly the hand of Saint James, attracted pilgrims to the site. The presence of the Abbey was a major economic stimulus to the town which serviced the visitors and the pilgrims, benefited from the fairs, and supplied the Abbey itself with goods and services.

Why 18.08?

18.08 is The Third Thursday in August and is an opportunity for the people of Reading to be involved. The Third Thursday is a monthly event showcasing the creative talent of Reading and includes visual, literary, music and performing arts in non-traditional arts venues. The year 1808 was the year The Reading Society for Promoting the Observance of the Sabbath, and the Suppression of Vice and Immorality was founded at a meeting in the Crown Inn. This was the society, which campaigned to close the Reading Theatre in Friar Street.”

Back to my roots!

2011-08-09T19:44:00.000+01:00

This weekend I was in Derby for a friends Thanksgiving service. I was born in Derby and lived nearby until I was about 2 1/2. It was lovely to see the places I have been told about - Kilburn, Belper etc. I have very few memories of my time there but it still felt special. I didn't get the chance to visit my old house so I think we will all go for a trip and visit the places of my toddlerhood.

Reading is very much my home though, especially Battle ward. When we moved to Reading we moved to Battle and I live here now. I love the community and vibrancy of the place. I am glad my boys will grow up here and go to the same school as I did. My love for the area is one of the many reasons I wanted to become a councillor.

Battle councillors surgery on Saturday!

2011-08-04T18:24:00.000+01:00

On the first Saturday of every month (excluding Bank Hols like New Years day) Battle councillors hold a surgery at Battle library. We are there 10.30-12. You don't need to make an appointment and all conversations are treated confidentially. If you have a comment or concern or would like advice on council matters, please do pop in. The next surgery is this Saturday 6 August.

Future surgeries are:

3 September
1 October
5 November
3 December

The Oxford Road resurfacing starts!

2011-07-29T19:40:00.001+01:00

Tomorrow will see the first sections of the Oxford Road resurfaced - the sections from Western Elms Avenue and Beresford Road and Grovelands Road to Norcot Junction. These sections will be closed to through traffic but the buses will continue their normal routes.

On Monday the Oxford Road will be closed between Beresford Road and Grovelands Road for the main body of work. The de-cluttering of Oxford Road will also be carried out. Residents will still have access where possible.

Most people should be able to 'escape' via either Beresford Road and Portman Road or Tilehurst and Waverley Road although there are some areas where the only exit is onto the Oxford Road, namely the Sherwood Street/Alma Street/Chester Street/Dorset Street/ Gordon Place/Westbrook Road/ Fulmead Road/Thornton Mews area. Further information on the closures can be found here.

Buse will also be diverted during this time. Outbound of town they will turn down Beresford Road, go down Portman Road and continue their journeys from Norcot Roundabout. Inbound buses will divert up Grovelands Road, along Tilehurst Road and down Western Elms Avenue before continuing their normal route. Further information can be found here.

The information line during these closures is 01275 464 441.

You can also contact your Battle councillors. Contact information is here.

We Need To Talk

2011-07-19T13:53:00.002+01:00

Today Reading Borough Council launched 'Difficult Times, Big Questions, We Need To Talk', a new parternship and conversation with residents. Unlike previous consultations, we aren't asking for your views on a chosen list of topics, we are asking you for your views and concerns on anything you feel is important. Every resident can share what is valuable to them, what they feel needs improving or changing.

I was at the launch at Battle library today. I am usually at Rhymetime anyway so hanging around afterwards to hand out leaflets and talk to people was easy for me to do and very enjoyable. I was joined by Cllr Chris Maskell.

Councillor Jon Hartley, Lead Councillor, Service Delivery and Improvement says:

'You can help us to transform the way the council operates, so it more effectively responds to your views and those of your community, and so that Reading remains a great place to live.

In return, we promise that we will:

listen to what you say
publish what you tell us
provide feedback to you on what you have said
ensure your community’s views influence our decisions
and keep on talking to you as we go forward'

Leaflets will be available at council buildings open to the public and you may find them dropping through your door. They can be returned to council buildings too. You can also complete one of them online here. It will only take a few minutes to complete and your views are important so please take the time to fill one in.

Oxford Road to be resurfaced - but closed for 5 days

2011-07-13T16:24:00.001+01:00

The Oxford Road, from West Reading bridge to Norcot roundabout, will be resurfaced this summer and at the same time improvements made to the layout of the road and pavements. This is a great 'gain' for Oxford Road residents but it does come with some 'pain' because, for a full resurfacing to be completed, a large section of the Oxford Road will be closed for 5 days.
Residents will still have access but there will be no through traffic. Residents will be receiving information soon, but below is a summary of what is happening, taken from the council press release :

'Extensive resurfacing of Oxford Road is included in this year's programme. In order to complete this safely and in the shortest possible time, road closures are planned. Oxford Road will be closed as outlined below:

Between Grovelands Road and Beresford Road 5 days 1st to 5th August.
Between Norcot Road and Grovelands Road except for buses and hgvs and between Western Elms Avenue and Beresford Road on Saturday 30th July and Sunday 31st July. These closures will not be at the same time.

Diversions will change depending on which section of the Oxford Road is being resurfaced at any particular time. The Council is therefore asking all road users to follow marked diversion routes as necessary and to be aware these may be liable to change.'

Live in the Oxford Road area? Please read on......

2011-07-12T21:16:00.001+01:00

The Oxford Road Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG) is a group of local people, organisations, councillors and council officers working together to improve the Oxford Road Area, of which Battle ward is a part.

There is an Oxford Road NAG survey available to complete on line here.

The objective of this survey is to identify the issues that are a concern to you as a local resident or as someone that works in the Oxford Road NAG area. The three priority issues are identified by the community following consultation via this survey.

The three priorities that the NAG will work on going forward will be announced at a public meeting to be held on:

Tuesday 27^th September 2011
at Oxford Road Primary School
from 7.30 – 9.00pm.

This meeting is open for anyone to attend. I have been to several NAG meetings and find them very effective and positive.

Buying British

2011-07-11T11:15:00.000+01:00

I always try and buy British. I only buy British meat because we have such strict laws in this country. I try and but British fruit and vegetables and focus on seasonal produce (although it can get a bit dull in winter). I buy British bread and butter, use a British brand of skincare and the baby wears British made cloth nappies.

I feel I am buying good quality if I am buying British. I choose to buy British to support our farmers and manufacturers. It's important that we try and grow as much of our own food as possible. In the first instance it reduces the carbon footprint of things as they don't have far to travel it and it also means we are less reliant on other countries produce. Buying British supports the economy and jobs.

Sometimes you have to buy from abroad - bananas, tea and coffee for example, and when that happens I try and buy Fair Trade so the farmers and producers get a fair deal. Some of the ingredients of the skincare I use have been ethically sourced overseas because they simply don't grow in our climate. I think it's important you make an informed decision when you buy things as your decision could have far bigger consequences than you realise.

Happy Birthday NHS!

2011-07-05T10:47:00.000+01:00

The NHS is 63 today. I sincerely hope we have another 63 years of this wonderful service and many more after that. I have used the NHS many times over the years - broken ankles, dodgy tonsils, two babies one of whom needed special care after arriving 2 months early. It's not perfect but it saves lives and you never have to worry about being able to afford treatment.

I am very worried about what the NHS will look like after this Tory-led government have made the changes they feel are necessary, changes no-one voted for and very few people agree with. Very worried indeed.

New community group launched today

2011-06-22T14:13:00.000+01:00

The boys and I attended the launch of Our Community today. This is a community group set up by local resident Ali. Today she had organised first aid training for local shop keepers and has plans for many other events in the future. It was well attended, despite to torrential rain, and the Mayor popped in to show her support too.

This is what Ali says about the group:

'What is it? A new community group that aims to help build, grow and support the wonderful people and small businesses that we have here in Reading West by bringing them together'

If you would like to find out more Ali can be contacted on 07796192276 or by email alisonskuse@hotmail.com

Have you seen drug dealing?

2011-06-15T10:42:00.000+01:00

I have been hearing that drug dealing is happening in Salisbury Road and around Kensington Park. Have you witnessed this or drug dealing in another part of Battle ward?

Battle councillors will not accept this behaviour in our ward. If you have seen something please either get in touch with one of us here or contact the police on the police non emergency number 0845 8 505505 (if your call is an emergency then dial 999).

If you have information about crime or anti-social behaviour in your area but you do not want to speak to the police, please call the Crimestoppers charity on 0800 555111.

Weekly bin collections dropped by government - good!

2011-06-14T08:08:00.000+01:00

It's a subject that provokes strong feeling - how often should your waste be collected? In Reading it's been fortnightly for some time - household waste one week, recycling the next. Recycling rates have gone up and despite fears of a plague of rats, the Pied Piper hasn't had to visit.

In our house we recycle a lot of our waste and it's the recycling bin that is often the most full. We sort waste as we go along with two swing bins in the kitchen and two small bins in the living room. It makes it so much easier (although it does give the baby two targets for attack). Using cloth nappies also helps as we don't fill the bin with disposables.

The government had planned to force councils to collect waste weekly (a vote winner?) - this plan has been dropped (see here.) I am glad. Why? Because there are better things to spend your money on. Weekly collections would likely halt the increase in recycling rates, maybe even reverse them as people would'nt need to be as careful with their waste sorting. It costs money to dump household waste and, when the government were told they would have to find £100 million centrally, as councils couldn't afford the costs, the idea was dumped - good!

Peat free please

2011-06-07T22:20:00.000+01:00

I was watching the One Show today and it had an interesting piece on peat used for compost. Peat bog is a fragile and precious ecosystem. It takes many hundreds of year to form and is made of layers and layers of vegetation preserved in an wet, acidic environment.

Archaeologists learn a lot about past climates and vegetation from peat bogs They can take core samples that reach back many hundreds of years and look at the vegetation, insects and pollen that was around at the time giving an indication of climate and agricultural use. Many important archaological finds are discovered in peat bogs ranging from preserved bodies to causeways and offerings.

This precious peat is dug up and used in our grow bags and compost. It isn't replaced, nor can it be. Only nature can create peat. You can now easily buy peat-free compost, which is something I make sure I do. If we all made the effort to buy peat-free we could make a real difference as shops aren't going to stock what they can't sell.

Reading Community Carnival - rainy but spirits far from dampened.

2011-05-30T15:14:00.000+01:00

The boys and I have just got back from watching the Reading Community Carnival. Despite the rain there were lots of people along the Oxford Road waiting and watching. The procession certainly lifted the mood on an otherwise grey and dreary day. We decided not to go up to Prospect Park but to go home to the warm and watch the Reading v Swansea football match.

It makes me proud to be a resident of Reading to see so many people come together for the Carnival and the football.

(Sorry for the sound quality - I recorded it on my camera)

The hard work begins

2011-05-25T22:58:00.000+01:00

The Mayor has been made, the Deputy elected and leader of the Council in place (despite Tory and Lib Dem heckling and protestation and Cllr Swaines Green goody bag). Labour are back in control with a manifesto to deliver. It will be a challenging year as we have to work with the Tory/Lib Dem budget and further cuts from the Tory led Government. We also need to act quickly to protect our NHS.

Battle Ward councillors will continue working hard for Battle. Some of the issues we have in progress are:

Fly tipping
Anti-social behaviour
Drug use
Street workers
Parking
The Oxford Road Area Study

Please get in contact if you have any comments or concerns and report any issues so they can be dealt with. You can reach us by email, phone, through the Council website and, of course, by post. You can also pop into to our monthly surgeries at Battle Library.

I have also taken on a few more responsibilities this year:

Arts Forum
Transport Management Advisory Panel & DiscretionaryParking Permits Appeal Panel
Internal Overview & Scrutiny Commission
Vice chair of the Labour Group

I am looking forward to the next municipal year, serving the people of Battle Ward and Reading.

The real reason the Tories/LibDems are cross about Mayor

2011-05-25T17:03:00.000+01:00

Last year the Tories and Lib Dems got a taste of power and they want more.

Without a Tory or Lib Dem Mayor they are unable to win the vote in the council chamber without support from the Greens. Why you ask? Simple.

In the event of a tie the Mayor gets the deciding vote. If the Greens abstain from a vote it will be 22 votes to Labour and 22 to the Tory/Lib Dem/Swaine 'coalition'. The Mayor decides who wins. With a Labour Mayor, the Labour Group will win. If it was a Tory or Lib Dem Mayor, the 'coalition' would win.

For there to be a stable administration we need a Labour Mayor. It is a shame the tradition of deputy becoming Mayor couldn't continue but I am sure, if they were in our position, they would do exactly the same.

How my garden is growing

2011-05-19T20:02:00.000+01:00

It's not all politics and, as things are still uncertain regarding who will form an administration (although Labour looking likely), I thought I would do a garden update.

I had a lot of work to do this year as the garden was neglected after last years election and my youngest arriving 2 months early. I weeded, dug in compost and manure, cut the lawn, got the weeds out from between the slabs in the path and refurbished the water feature. I can now go out there and not feel guilty!

I am growing more fruit and veg than I thought I would:

Veg - peas, courgettes, lettuce, tomatoes, salad leaves, potatoes, cabbages, carrots, chillis, radishes, spring onions, french beans & runner beans.
Fruit - strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, cherrys, tayberries, blackberries, rhubarb, apples and nectarine on dwarf trees.

I don't have a big garden so a lot of the veg are in containers and a very clever hanging veg kit. It's so exciting to see the first shoots of something and I think we will get our first strawberry soon. I will then have the fun task of preventing the 3 year old from helping himself!

What will the Greens do?

2011-05-09T21:56:00.000+01:00

Last weeks election results left the Greens in an interesting position.

Labour have 22 councillors and 39.9% of the vote. The Conservatives have 16 councillors and 34.1% of the vote. The Lib Dems lost all the wards they were defending and have 5 councillors and suspended Lib Dem Cllr Swaine remaining. The means last years coalition does not have enough councillors to lead the council, their total also being 22 (if Cllr Swaine is included). The Green now have 2 councillors.

There has been talk of a 'rainbow coalition' consisting of the Conservatives, Lib Dems, Cllr Swaine and the Greens - a total of 24 councillors. I think this would be a huge mistake.

The Greens won in Park ward with 1585 votes and Labour came a close second with 1213. The Conservatives came a poor third with 735 votes. The people of Park have made it clear - if they didn't have a Green councillor they would have a Labour councillor and they don't want much to do with the Conservatives (and even less to do with the Lib Dems with just 123 votes).

If the Greens side with the Lib Dems and Conservatives to form this 'rainbow coalition' I think they would be doing the Labour party in Park ward a huge favour and irreparably damaging their reputation at the same time.

Congratulations Cllr Chris Maskell and Reading Labour

2011-05-06T15:05:00.000+01:00

Well, what a day. Election time is always stressful and exciting at the same time and never more so at the count at Rivermead. You can usually get a rough idea as to how the voting has gone when they start separating the votes into parties. They then count the ballots into 25's then the 25's into 100's and the 100's into 500's. Once they get to this stage, where the winner has a large lead, you can almost count the ballots and guess the result.

This is what happened in Battle ward today. The Tory candidate had one 500 and some extras and Cllr Chris Maskell had two 500's and some extras so it was obvious he had won. The final result was:

Chris Maskell (Labour): 1373
Imraan Ishtiaq (Conservatives): 690
John Oakley (Lib Dems): 230
Alan Lockey (Green): 181
Michael Diamond (Common Sense): 81
Jean-Marie Pascual (Roman): 30

It is an excellent result for Cllr Maskell. He has worked hard for Battle in the past and will continue to do so. You can visit his website here.

For the full results you can visit the Reading Borough Council website here. Reading Labour as a whole had a great day holding all seats and gaining Redlands, Church and Katesgrove.

Congratulations Cllr Chris Maskell and Reading Labour.

Cllr Maskells committment to Battle & Reading Labours manifesto

2011-04-26T11:31:00.000+01:00

As we head towards the local elections next week I thought I would share Cllr Chris Maskells committment to the residents of Battle ward and Reading Labours pledge to the people of Reading:

Labour will:

• Stand up for a cleaner Reading by making clean streets the Council’s priority.
• Radically re-organise the Council and its services to deliver savings and protect people in need.
• Use the Council’s watchdog powers to stand up for your NHS.
• Stand up for those least able to care for themselves
• Involve the public more effectively.
• Ensure that all voices in Reading are heard equally – not just those of the politicians and those who shout loudest.
• Create a New Local Partnership to stand up for Reading.
• Work with our partners to continue the regeneration of our town.
• Review the Green Bin fiasco.
• Maintain the Council’s committment to paying a living wage.

The full manifesto can be viewed here.

Cllr Maskell has a proven record of fighting hard for the people of Battle ward and will continue to do so. Past editions of Into Battle, our long standing ward newsletter can be viewed here and past editions of Battle Councillors Reports can be viewed here.

They really do show how hard Cllr Maskell, alongside other Battle councillors, works for the people of Battle ward.

Vote for Cllr Chris Maskell on 5 May 2011!

Dumb blondes? Let's not feed a stereotype.

2011-04-20T11:08:00.000+01:00

As you can probably imagine I was quite surprised to see that I was mentioned in a small article in the Reading Post discussing Cllr Daisy Bensons hair colour. I am sure it was meant in jest but all it does is reinforce the stereotype that blondes are dumb.

I quote Cllr Benson, in an article where she said she wanted to shake of any notion of being a dumb blonde. 'I've been blonde for quite a while, but I can't remember when I first had highlights. I guess serious times call for serious measures, and politics is a serious business'.

Eh? Politics is a serious business, representing the people of Reading is a serious business. Hair colour isn't.

Changing the colour of your hair doesn't change your intellectual powers, how seriously you take your work or your abilities. Hair dye isn't magic. Isn't it time we dropped stereotypes based on appearance?

Big changes to Reading town centre

2011-04-14T09:32:00.000+01:00

On Monday there will be massive changes made to the way traffic flows around the town centre. The council will have staff in town to help people with these changes and to direct them to their bus stop if it has been moved. More information can be found here.

Information on the changes to bus stops can be found here.

Information on the changes to traffic flow can be found here.

Local elections less than a month away!

2011-04-06T15:16:00.000+01:00

I remember last time this year well. I was super busy in the run up to my election and wondering how the national mood would effect local results.

I am now wondering the same thing but this time the mood has changed, and it's not my turn to stand for election - phew! There are a lot of people unhappy with the decisions made by both the Tory-led Government and the Tory-led council - green bins, disabled/oap concession removal, loss of free bulky waste collection for the elderly and those on benefits - the list goes on.

Chris Maskell, long running Battle councillor, is standing again - the list of candidates was announced today and can be viewed here. He has worked so very hard for Battle ward over the years and will obviously be getting my vote! Please visit his website at http://cllrchrismaskell.com/ for up to date information on what he's been up to.

In order to vote you must, of course, be registered. Time is running out and you have until the 14 April. Details of how to get registered can be found here.

Green bin deadline moved but what about slashed disabled travel?

2011-03-30T12:45:00.000+01:00

So the Council have realised that asking people to respond to the letter about green bin collection charges in just 5 days is unreasonable - good!

But what about the thousands of disabled bus pass holders who, on Friday, will be losing free travel before 9.30? Those letters hadn't even been sent as of Monday this week. We have known for a while the OAP's free travel will revert to the national standard - free after 9.30 am and before 11pm weekdays but not so the disabled bus users and their travel companions.

Last night Labour group put forward a motion asking for consultaion on these changes before they are passed - this was rejected by the Tory-led Council. This means people will have just a day or so's notice before changes are made to their travel arrangements without being consulted.

I believe this first letter should have gone out months ago welcoming comment/complaint, warning of potential changes and giving people enough time to make other arrangements.

Not fair in the slightest.

UPDATED: Green bin & bag charge? I'll do it myself thanks.

2011-03-28T16:16:00.000+01:00

UPDATED 12 July 2011 - Great news - the Labour administration have indentified savings within the Council are are scrapping this stealth green tax. I am going to be filling my green bags as I don't seem to be very good at making compost.......

It's safe to assume that those of you who have bought green bins and bags on the past have had your letters asking you to pay for their collection. When I bought my green bag I got it because I thought free green waste collection was an excellent idea and so good for the environment. I was never patient enough to make my own compost so it was an ideal solution.

Well, I have just spent the afternoon making a compost bin. £22.50 for bin collection and £7.50 for bag collection just seemed a bit of a waste of money to me when I could buy a compost bin for about £20-£25 pounds, save the collection fee and keep the compost. I have bought compost accelerator though because, although I have bought a compost bin, I still don't have that much patience.

If you don't want to pay for green bin/bag collection don't forget to ring 0800 834 035 to cancel your collection otherwise you will shortly be receiving an invoice. I know there are other people out there not happy with this new charge and also not happy with the short notice given to avoid an invoice. The call only takes a minute or so so you still have time.

UPDATE: The Council have extended the deadline to refuse to pay for green bin/bag collection until 12 April which, considering letters only started dropping onto doormats at the end of last week, is a welcome move. Read about it here.

Back from the march

2011-03-26T20:34:00.000Z

Goodness that was tiring but completely worth it. We marched from the Embankment to Hyde Park and I didn't see a single act of vandalism or violence. It was lovely to see so many different people on the march ranging in age from a few months to pensioners. We were all there to show the government that we believe their policy of drastic cuts to reduce the deficit is damaging our country and communities.

It's a shame that a few violent people, not connected to the march, choose it as a cover for vandalism and aggression.

I'm Marching for the Alternative

2011-03-25T15:07:00.000Z

Just back from a short seaside break and batteries recharged for the March for the Alternative tomorrow.

I believe the the Government is moving too quickly to reduce the deficit. Last year we had an economy that was starting to recover and now we have an economy that didn't grow, but shrank last quarter.

The cuts being made are damaging and putting people in fear for their and their childrens futures. I am marching against these cuts - there is an alternative.

UPDATED: It's a sunny day so the fluff's on the line!

2011-03-19T12:42:00.000Z

You must be thinking - eh?

Fluff is cloth nappy users speak for cloth nappies because they are cute, pretty and, sometimes, fluffy. I have used cloth nappies for both my boys. We decided to use cloth because we would save money, landfill space and help the environment. This is what www.goreal.org.uk say about real nappies and the environment:

'Real nappies can be up to 40% better for the environment than disposables. This was the finding from the 2008 update to the Environment Agency’s Life Cycle Analysis Report on nappies. Unlike disposables, Real Nappies put parents in control of the impact they have on the environment, with the carbon savings directly related to how you choose to wash your Real Nappies.'

Reading Borough Council currently offer a £30 cashback scheme that you can read about here. You can claim it once per child against the purchase of cloth nappies.

Real Nappy Week is running from 16 - 22 May and I have asked the council if they intend to do anything to promote cloth nappies during this week and also to check if the cashback incentive will continue.

UPDATE: Reading Borough Council have finally confirmed the cashback scheme will continue which is great news. That, combined with real nappy week bargains, makes for inexpensive cloth nappies!

Lovely new paint job

2011-03-16T13:06:00.000Z

I reported not long ago about the state of double yellow lines in Gordon Place and the illegal parking taking place there.

I'm pleased to report that the double yellow lines have already been repainted - the first part of Gordon Place and the corners with Sherwood Street.

Unfortunately the illegal parking continues and you will often see one or two cars parked on this stretch of Gordon Place. Not only is this illegal but also dangerous as people turn from the Oxford Road to be confronted by cars on the wrong side of the road trying to get past.

I reported this to the Council several weeks ago and they have assured me they have increased the number of visits by the traffic wardens. Doesn't seem to be working!

Dirty George Street

2011-03-14T14:33:00.000Z

I have been contacted by concerned users of George Street about rubbish and dog waste causing problems for pedestrians and the parents and children attending Oxford Road Community School. I have reported this to the council and asked that the area be tidied up.

UPDATED: Coming to a street near you - a cabinet and an old bed.

2011-03-09T10:37:00.000Z

On my travels around Battle ward I have yet again discovered fly-tipped items. This time it was an entire living room cabinet and broken sink or toilet in Little Johns Lane:

I have reported these items and asked that they be removed.

UPDATE 17 March 2011: The site has now been visited and the items will be removed shortly.

With the collection of bulky waste items going up 40% in a months time I can only see dumped waste being even more of a problem. Added to that increase, all OAPs, and those receiving benefits, will have their two free collections a year removed. Will they have £32.90 available to pay for their waste to be collected? There are also new charges for the collection of boilers (£98.11), bathroom suites (£122.65) and radiators (£33.10).

Some of these things can be put in a car and taken to the household waste recycling centre but what can you do with the large items apart from pay up? If they are in good condition you could offer them to charity, some of which will collect large items, or free via a site like Freegle. Nows the time to consider the mantra 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle'.

International Womens Day: What Can We Do?

2011-03-08T10:40:00.000Z

The first International Womens Day was celebrated 100 years ago. Society has changed a lot in that time. Women have the vote and the right to equal pay but there is still a long way to go until we are truly equal. We are moving towards equal pay but it has yet to be achieved. Women working full-time in the UK are still paid on average 15.5% less per hour than men. Women have the vote but are under-represented in local and national Government.

Maybe it's the under-representation of women in Government which has led to us being badly effected by the recent emergency budget. Only four of the 29 ministers allowed to attend Cabinet meetings are women. We have seen cuts to Child Benefit, Health in Pregnancy Grant and Surestart Maternity Grant to name a few. Support for children is being cut by £2.4bn. A further £560m cut from the Child Trust Fund.

What is clear is that women should not accept these cuts. We should make our voices heard and stand up for our, and our childrens, rights and future. Today you could pledge to attend the March for the Alternative in a few weeks time, you could contact your local MP or councillor about an issue that concerns you or you could sign a petition asking that services vital to you are protected. Do something on International Womens day because you can make a difference.

UPDATED: Join The Dots - Well, Double Yellow Lines

2011-03-06T19:54:00.000Z

UPDATE 9 March 2011: I have just been contacted by the council to confirm these lines will be repainted in the near future - excellent news.

I noticed this on one of my journeys with the pram and 3 year old. The road in Gordon Place has been repaired but the double yellow lines have not been replaced.

There is a problem with people parking on the double yellow lines on this side of the road. You can often see one or two cars parked here, sometimes more and this causes a problem when cars turn off the Oxford Road. They often have to stop as a car is approaching from the opposite direction and is in the middle of the road going past illegally parked cars. This sometimes causes cars to be backed up onto the roundabout on the Oxford Road. A more definite line may help and this problem has been reported.

Dog pooh problem?

2011-03-03T14:20:00.000Z

There's nothing worse than getting into your house to find you have brought dog pooh in on your shoes/childs shoes/pram wheels/wheelchair. You then have to clean this horrible mess and ensure your floors are safe for you and your family.

I was recently contacted by a concerned resident about the dog waste on the pavements leading up to Kensington Park. There are dog waste bins in that area but clearly not enough to encourage the more irresponsible dog owners to clear up. It also musn't be forgotten that allowing your dog to foul the pavement, and not clear up, is an offence.

A new dog waste bin has since been installed on Wilton Road near to Elm Lodge Avenue and the 'Beat Sweepers' clear up dog mess on a weekly basis. If this is a problem where you live, please let me know.

You will be relieved to see I have not included a picture ;-)

Battle councillors surgery this Saturday (March 5th)

2011-03-01T16:01:00.000Z

If you've not been before, please just pop into Battle Library between 10.30 and 12 with any comments or concerns you have. It's open to all Battle Ward residents. If you're not sure which ward you are in please visit the Reading Borough Council website here.

Anything you say is confidential.

Parking chaos outside Tesco: What can be done?

2011-02-22T09:38:00.000Z

The Tesco development is now over 3 years old and, in the main, has been a positive influence on the surrounding area. One of the problems that has come to light is the small carpark infront of Tesco. It has a one hour maximum stay and it is clear that this parking restriction is not being enforced leading to spaces being rare. Other problems with this carpark include people parking where there aren't spaces (usually behind other cars or on the pavement at the front), misuse of the disabled spaces and traffic congestion caused by right turns in and out of the carpark.

Cllr Chris Maskell and I have asked the council enforce the parking restrictions and ensure illegal parking is stopped. We have also asked that there be a study into the effect on the Oxford Road of traffic turning right into and out of the carpark. The carpark is an excellent resource but needs to be used fairly and safely.

UPDATED: Outstanding schools in Reading: A question to the Council

2011-02-19T22:00:00.000Z

West Reading, and the Oxford Road area, have recently had two 'outstanding' reports from Ofsted - Gloucester Road Playgroup in Battle and Wilson Primary School in Norcot. I have asked the Council if they would consider a small celebration, at the end of the school year, for all 'outstanding' childcare providers, playgroups, pre-schools and schools. I believe these success stories should be celebrated and that we should be proud of these achievements. I shall update you with their response.

UPDATE: I got a response today confirming all 'outstanding' providers will be celebrated:

'Currently all Childminders who receive an Outstanding Ofsted inspection outcome receive a letter of congratulations from the Head of Early Years. The termly newsletter produced by the Quality team for all Childcare and Early Education Providers records all the Ofsted inspection outcomes under a congratulations banner. In addition the Quality Advisory team will offer congratulation during their visits.

Schools that receive either a good or outstanding outcome receive a letter of congratulations from the Director of Education and Childrens services and the Head of School Improvement.

Since the introduction of the EYFS 11 private or voluntary EY settings and 28 childminders have been judged as outstanding

At the termly Providers Forum on the 28^th June 2011 a celebration of achievements will take place. All settings and Childminders who have received an outstanding Ofsted will be presented with a certificate of achievement.'

Good news: Kensington Road fly-tippers beware!

2011-02-16T14:39:00.000Z

In my previous posts I have highlighted my concerns about fly-tipping at the Kensington Road recycling point. I pass by on a regular basis when I pick my eldest up from playgroup and nearly everyday there was something new. I contacted the council who have cleared away the mess and I also asked that something be done about this recurrent problem.

I was contacted today with some good news. In the near future there will be signs going up reminding people what can be recycled in these recycling bins and that the dumping of any other rubbish is an offence. Where the tippers have been identified there have been warning letters sent and, in one case, a fixed penalty notice was issued. Reading Borough Council and the councillors of Battle ward will not tolerate this kind of anti-social behaviour.

Is fly-tipping getting worse?

2011-02-08T16:27:00.000Z

I walk a fair bit around Battle ward - to and from the library, Tesco and my sons playgroup in the main and from these routes alone I have picked up five cases of fly-tippng in the last week:

A sofa at the bottom of Kensington Road
A sofa in the Kensington Road carpark.
A chair in Elm Lodge Avenue.
A whole divan bed and mattress on Gordon Place.
A whole heap of full binbags in the Kensington Road recycling point.

Some of the cost saving/money making measures likely to be introduced by the Tory-led council will mean the end of concessions on bulky waste collection and an increase in charges for everyone else. I can only see an already bad situation getting worse.

Good morning at Battle Library

2011-02-05T15:23:00.000Z

Today is Save Our Libraries day. So far in Reading our libraries have not been touched and I sincerely hope they never are. As I've said before, Reading libraries are a vital resource for the community.

BBC news story on Save Our Libraries day

Cllr Chris Maskell and I held our surgery there this morning and were quiet busy which was great to see - it's our job to help the people of Battle after all!

We were chatting to Marjorie about all the different groups and activities at the library and she mentioned a family had come in to offer their help on Save Our Libraries day - just shows how important the library is to the people of Battle ward.

Councillor surgery tomorrow

2011-02-04T16:47:00.000Z

There is a Battle Ward councillors surgery at Battle Library tomorrow, Saturday 5 February, 10.30-12. Please come along if you have any questions or concerns. No need to make an appointment, just pop in. Anything discussed will be treated confidentially.

If you can't make it tomorrow, please do get in touch with us. Our contact details can be found here.

Who steals from children?

2011-02-01T16:07:00.000Z

This isn't a political post, just one from a mum who can't believe someone has broken into a playgroup and stolen childrens equipment. You must be in a pretty sorry state to do something like that.

Gloucester Road playgroup, in Battle ward, received an Outstanding rating from OFSTED before Christmas and started the year on excellent form only to have their computers, cameras and cash stolen over the weekend. My son attends this fabulous playgroup and the theft is so sad. The story in GetReading is here.

If anyone can help in any way please get in touch with the playgroup whose contact information can be found here.

Letting my garden grow and saving pennies

2011-01-30T17:23:00.000Z

I am a keen gardener, not great, but very enthusiastic. I have been leafing through seed and plant catalogues trying to decide what to grow - usually a balance between ease and cost saving. Fruit is usually the greatest cost so that will be a focus - we have a cherry tree, raspberries and strawberries already. Blueberries went in last year to crop this year and I have a blackberry and tayberry waiting to be planted. It's not a big garden but will be crammed!

Having read in the national press that farmers are predicting food prices will rise, growing some of our own food will certainly help. VAT has gone up so some everyday purchases cost more and this, combined with more expensive food, will make the next year tougher on the bank balance.

Council Tax is likely to be frozen but the Tory-led council will be making other charges to compensate such as being charged for green bag/bin collection, no more concessions for large waste item collection, more charging for parking and a focus on increased income from fines. Council tenants will see a rise in their rent and those with mortgages are likely to see an interest rate rise as the Bank of England battles with rising inflation.

Not ready to sacrifice the flower border for veggies yet but it may become a sensible choice.

From the RCRE Holocaust Memorial Event

2011-01-27T22:26:00.000Z

I have just got back from the Reading Council for Racial Equality (RCRE) Holocaust Memorial Day event. It was moving and interesting in equal parts and the speakers told me many things about the children of war I never knew. It was made clear that even if an issue you care about doesn't effect you personally, speak out and help others as you may need their help one day. We read this out at the end:

First They Came
Pastor Martin Niemoller

First they came for the Communists
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Communist
Then they came for the Socialist
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Socialist
Then they came for the trade unionist
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a trade unionist
Then they came for the Jew
And I did not speak out
Because I was not a Jew
Then they came for me
And there was no one left
To speak out for me.

We left them a recovering economy and they broke it!

2011-01-25T12:43:00.000Z

I must admit I was surprised to see the economy did not grow in the last quarter. There have been warnings of a double-dip recession but it's not something anyone wanted. I really do hope this quarter shows growth and recession is avoided.

You cannot grow an economy by making massive cuts as the Tory-led Government have done. It leaves people fearing for their jobs, homes and services and not likely to spend any more than they have to. And you also can't blame the lack of growth on snow!!!!!

Got a problem? We're here to help....

2011-01-22T21:59:00.000Z

As a ward councillor I am here to help Battle ward residents be it a parking issue, concern about your local area or a question about a Council service.

As I walk about the ward I do pick up a few issues - this week an example was a blocked gutter and some fly tipping.

Don't gift thieves your property!

2011-01-19T09:36:00.000Z

Last night Cllrs Chris Maskell, Tony Page and Mohammed Ayub and I attended the Oxford Road Neighbourhood Action Group (NAG). The Oxford Road NAG is a group of residents, local groups, council and Police officials all with the improvement of their local area at the top of their agenda. It was a very interesting meeting covering littering, crime, and other local concerns.

I did discover something surprising and it has prompted me to take action. If the Police raid a suspected thief's property and find what could be the proceeds of crime, they cannot prosecute unless it can be proven the items were stolen. Unless you report your property stolen and provide a means of identification, like a serial number or you've marked it with a UV pen, the theft cannot be proved and the property returned to the suspect. Suffice to say all our electricals are now marked.

Of course it's better not to have things stolen in the first place and one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent burglary is to double lock your front door. Burglars can very easily open an unlocked door from the inside using a bendy pole - they just pull the door handle and wander in - nasty. So double lock your front door and make a note of serial numbers/mark your property with a UV pen and keep safe!

Slow down Mr Cameron!

2011-01-17T13:58:00.000Z

The sheer pace at which the Tory-led Government is making changes scares me. How well thought through are these changes? We have already seen there have been problems with the proposed changes to child benefit and the u-turn on Bookstart. After targeting disability benefit leaving many vulnerable people worried about how they are going to survive, they are now targeting the NHS.

Stop and think things through. The NHS is too precious to be hacked to pieces in the name of reform.