Remembering
Robert Foster and
the Riley brothers
New Council house
developments named
after soldiers (page 4)
harlow
times
Winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
A magazine about housing and your town
Thank you Harlow for welcoming our soldiers home
Royal Anglian Regiment exercises right to march through Harlow (page 2)
Essential Christmas and winter information
Advice for you, bin collections, what’s on and contacting the Council (pages 10,11,13, 15 and 16)
C o u nc i l
News in brief
Leader’s lines - creating opportunities
We are
approaching the
end of 2015 and
it is another year
that a positive
and visible
difference has
continued to be
made to Harlow.
Two recent announcements give a
further positive outlook for Harlow
and something Harlow Council
is determined to ensure creates
opportunities for residents. The new
£350m Public Health England labs
will provide fantastic opportunities
to improve higher education and the
careers of local people. This came a
week before it was revealed that two
international companies – Raytheon
and Arrow – are staying in Harlow
Green Flag
number seven
For the seventh year in a row
Parndon Wood Nature
Reserve has been awarded the
Green Flag, a sign to visitors
that it is managed to the
highest possible standards,
beautifully maintained and
has excellent facilities.
Parndon Wood is maintained by
Harlow Council and volunteers
with local organisation ECCO
managing the Conservation
Centre and running community
activities as part of a partnership
agreement.
Find out what’s on at the
Reserve at www.ecco.org.uk
2
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
and expanding their operations at
the Harlow Enterprise Zone.
However, the final decision is in a
High Court Judge’s hands.
As shown in this edition of Harlow
Times, Harlow continues to be a
thriving place both during the day
and night. To help residents and
local shift workers feel safer at night
Harlow’s street lights are now kept
on all night every night after a deal
was agreed with Essex County
Council.
Early next year we will set out our
budget plans and future priorities as
we continue to receive less funding
from the Government. We will be
open and honest with residents
about the choices we face and our
plans will be explained in the March
edition of Harlow Times.
Close and co-operative working with
Essex County Council also means
we are moving ahead to apply for
a final injunction against the setting
up of unauthorised encampments
in the town. In responding to the
concerns of our residents and local
businesses we have put together the
very best case we can.
Thank you
Harlow
Thank you to all those who
were able to attend the Royal
Anglian Regiment Freedom
Parade on 22 October 2015
to witness history being
made. It was an extremely
proud day for the Regiment
and the town in what was a
fitting homecoming for the
soldiers.
Around 5,000 residents turned
out and lined the streets to
cheer and applaud the soldiers
as they marched through the
town centre.
The feedback from the
Regiment, the soldiers and
those who attended was very
positive and together everyone
played their part to welcome
the soldiers to Harlow.
Videos and memories from
the day can be viewed on the
Council’s Youtube channel.
I wish you all a very happy
Christmas and New Year.
Councillor Jon Clempner
Leader of Harlow Council
[email protected]
News in brief
Street lights back on
Parkrun’s
first birthday
A running craze which has
helped over 1,000 people stay
fit and healthy has celebrated
its first birthday.
Harlow Parkrun, a free, timed
5km run takes place in Harlow
Town Park every Saturday
morning. Over 1,300 individuals
have participated in Harlow
Parkrun and almost 6,000 total
runs have been reached.
Street lights now stay on all
night every night in Harlow,
following a landmark deal
between Harlow Council and
Essex County Council.
In Harlow, Essex County Council
is responsible for over 9,000
lights with around 85 per cent
being switched off since March
2014 before the deal was agreed.
The agreement was signed
in October 2015 with Harlow
Council funding the switch-on
with a Council Tax increase
of around 7p per week for the
average household in the town.
Harlow Council will support the
County Council to explore the
use of energy efficient lighting.
Keeping Harlow’s street lights
on responds to the genuine
concerns of the community and
businesses and supports the
town’s night-time economy.
More information on the street
light agreement can be found at
www.harlow.gov.uk
The event, backed by Harlow
Council, is totally managed by a
team of volunteers.
To register and take part visit
www.parkrun.org.uk/harlow
Injunction hearing date set Bag a saving
Harlow Council and Essex
County Council have applied to
turn the interim injunction into a
final injunction.
The decision will be announced
at www.harlow.gov.uk and
on the Council’s social media
channels and in the local press.
© chrisdorney - Fotolia.com
Wednesday 16 December 2015
is the date set for the High
Court hearing on the townwide injunction against both
named and unknown persons
setting up unauthorised
encampments in Harlow.
this Christmas
Throughout the town centre a
variety of shops will be open for
late-night shopping on Thursday
3, 10 and 17 December 2015.
Free parking is also available on
these days from 3pm until 8pm
in the Harvey Centre, The Water
Gardens and Post Office Road
car parks.
The range and length of time
the injunction is in force will be
decided by the High Court. The
interim injunction remains in
force until a further decision is
made by the High Court.
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
3
Council house building
New Council house
developments to be
named after soldiers
FOSTER COURT
RILEY MEWS
Another development in The Hill
in Old Harlow is to be named
“Riley Mews” in memory of
the Riley brothers, Thomas,
Cyril and Francis, who were all
from Harlow and lost their lives
serving in the First World War.
Private Thomas William Riley
served for the 1st and 4th
Battalions of the Essex Regiment
and died in September 1915.
Private Cyril Riley served for the
5th Battalion of the East Kent
Regiment and died in May 1916.
Riley Mews
Two new Council house
developments are to be
named in memory of Harlow
soldiers who gave their lives
while serving and protecting
their country.
A day before the Royal Anglian
Regiment 1st Battalion marched
through Harlow on 22 October
2015, the Council announced
that the new development on
Momples Road will be named
“Foster Court” in memory of
Private Robert Foster. Robert
from Harlow was tragically
killed in Afghanistan in August
2007 and served under the 1st
Battalion.
Private Robert Foster
4
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
“We are extremely
touched that Harlow
Council has decided to
name one of their new
housing developments
after Robert. He was very
much a Harlow boy and
loved his town, so this,
along with his name on the
Netteswell memorial, his
oak tree in the Town Park
and the bench at Ward
Hatch, will be considered
a real honour.
“Although we will always
feel his loss, it is a real
comfort to know that he is
thought of with such pride
not only by his family and
friends but also his town.
We wish the residents
every happiness in their
new homes.”
Reaction from Robert’s family.
Corporal Francis Arthur Riley
died in February 1917 serving
with the 8th Battalion of The
Bedfordshire Regiment. He
formerly served with The Essex
Regiment.
Francis, Thomas and Cyril Riley
Both announcements were
made on the Council’s social
media sites with the Facebook
post reaching over 83,000
people on Facebook and being
‘liked’ over 3,000 times.
The Council’s house building
programme will provide 18 brand
new, two-bedroom Council
homes for local families with four
houses at Foster Court, seven
houses at Riley Mews and
seven houses at Fesants Croft.
Housing news
Council reviewing housing priorities message from the Portfolio Holder for Housing
The Government
has announced
that Councils will
need to reduce
housing rents by
one per cent every
year for four years
from April 2016.
While tenants will welcome this
it will mean less income for the
Council reducing our housing
budget by £12.8m over four
years. This means less money for
housing services, modernising
and maintaining Council homes
and building new Council homes.
In the last two years some of the
Council’s achievements include a
five-year £100m Housing Investment
Programme which has funded
34,688 improvements to Council
homes helping to improve tenants’
lives. We’ve also started the first
programme for more than 25 years:
building new Council homes for rent.
With having less income we are
looking carefully at how we prioritise
what we do and how we do it. A new
housing business plan will be agreed
by the Council early next year and
there will be more information about
this at January’s Winter Tenant
Forum and in the March Harlow
Times.
Tackling housing need by creating
more housing is the Council’s top
priority and we know it remains one
of the most important issues for
residents.
We will work hard to minimise the
impact on tenants but we are going
to have difficult choices to make.
Government proposals could also
affect this meaning this issue could
continue to be a huge challenge for
towns like Harlow. This is something
we can only address working with
the Government.
Our priorities are likely to be:
maintaining decent homes,
safeguarding the wellbeing of
Council tenants in their homes,
making homes warmer and more
energy efficient and funding disabled
adaptions inside and outside homes.
At this point there remains some
uncertainty about the future funding
for housing, and we await more
detail on the implications.
Councillor Rod Truan
Harlow Council
Portfolio Holder for Housing
[email protected]
I would welcome tenants’ views on
these priorities so please do contact
me with your thoughts.
Dates for your diary
rum
t Fo
n
ena
T
r
e
t
Win
Housing Standards Board
Tuesday 15 December 2015 and
Tuesday 5 January 2016, in the Civic Centre
begins at 7pm.
Having your say
Winter Tenant Forum 2016
Tuesday 12 January 2016, in the Civic
Centre, Forum begins at 7pm.
Spring Leaseholder Forum 2016
Wednesday 23 March 2016 at the Council
Chamber, Civic Centre, registration and
refreshments at 6.30pm. Forum begins at
7pm. Market Place opens at 7.35pm.
Spring Tenant Forum 2016
Wednesday 30 March 2016, in the Civic
Centre. Forum begins at 7pm.
Do you have a housing issue which needs attention or a suggestion on
how Harlow Council can improve its housing services?
Harlow Council in partnership with tenant representatives invite you to the
Winter Tenant Forum
(For Harlow Council Tenants only)
Tuesday 12 January 2016
from 7pm, Council Chamber, Civic Centre
• A new Business Plan and changes to your Housing
Service.
• Surgeries - come along and talk to Council Housing
staff and contractors (Kier Harlow Ltd, United Living
and Mulalley) on a one-to-one basis about any
housing-related issues.
Harlow Council staff will be on hand to provide welfare reform and
benefits advice. All tenants attending will be entered into a free
raffle, with prizes donated by the contractors including shopping
vouchers for £50.
For further information, or if you require transport, please contact Zulfi Kiani,
Community Engagement Co-ordinator on 01279 446330
or email [email protected]
Harlow Council
Civic Centre
The Water Gardens
Harlow, Essex CM20 1WG
Council
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
5
Housing news
Changes in
legislation for
leaseholder
landlords
What to check if your
gas boiler breaks down
Private landlords including
leaseholder landlords are
now required to fit smoke
alarms on every storey of
their properties and fit carbon
monoxide (CO) alarms in
every room with a solid
fuel burning appliance. The
new laws came into force in
England on 1 October 2015.
Whilst the new regulations don’t
state the type of smoke alarm
required, landlords are asked to
make informed decisions and
choose the best possible alarms
for their properties and tenants.
Landlords are also encouraged
to ensure that working CO
alarms are installed in rooms
with gas appliances as well as
solid fuel burning appliances.
Smoke alarms should carry
the British Standard BS 58396:2013 with CO alarms carrying
the British Standard BS EN
50292:2013.
Copies of these regulations and
guidance notes can be found at:
www.harlow.gov.uk/alarmslandlords
If you are a Council tenant and
you think your gas boiler has
broken down, check the following:
1. Is the thermostat turned
up high enough (until you
hear a click)?
2. Is the gas switched on?
3. Is there sufficient credit on
the gas meter?
If your heating is still not working
please call the Repairs Call
Centre on 01279 446666 to
arrange for a gas representative
to contact you.
An appointment will then be
made if it is necessary for an
engineer to visit.
Remember: By failing to allow
Kier Harlow Ltd to carry out an
annual gas service, you could
be putting your tenancy at risk.
If you think your gas service is
overdue, call Kier Harlow on
01279 446666.
Take the first step
Save
yourself
time...
...go online
There is never an excuse for domestic abuse and it is never your fault
Book, apply,
pay and report
Safer Places support for adults and children: 0845 0177 668
National Domestic Violence Helpline (for women): 0808 2000 247
Men’s Advice Line: 0808 801 0327
Victim Support: 0845 456 5995
www.harlow.gov.uk
6
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
If you are a man or a woman who is being
Hurt ● Threatened ● Controlled
you can get help
In an emergency ring 999
Housing news
Kier Harlow services to Smoke alarm
transfer to new company servicing
Housing repairs, street
cleaning and grass cutting
will be provided by a
new company owned by
Harlow Council from 2017,
under proposals agreed in
September 2015.
Front-line services including, but
not limited to, housing repairs
and maintenance, repairs
to Council buildings, street
cleaning, grass cutting and
pest control, which have been
operated by Kier Harlow Ltd
since 2007, will be transferred
to a Local Authority Trading
Company (LATC) wholly owned
and set up by the Council.
The transfer follows a review
carried out by the Council, which
included independent reports to
look at the best way of providing
these services in the future.
The option to set up an LATC
was found to be the most costeffective option whilst also giving
the Council the flexibility it needs
to meet any future financial
challenges it will face.
The changes will be funded by
existing approved budgets at no
extra cost to Council Taxpayers,
Council tenants and Council
leaseholders.
The current contract for the
provision of services by Kier
Harlow Ltd expires on 31
January 2017.
programme
Harlow Council and Kier
Harlow Ltd are to carry out
smoke alarm servicing.
This involves a clean and
check of your smoke alarms
to ensure they are working
fully to keep you safe.
Checks will take place at the
same time as your annual gas
servicing visit.
We know that a number of
homes have no gas heating
appliances and the smoke
alarms in these homes will be
checked as part of a separate
programme.
Where to turn for
money advice
Local Council Tax Support Officers
01279 446419 or 01279 446420
[email protected]
Welfare Reform Housing Support Officer
01279 446655
[email protected]
Harlow Advice Centre
01279 704002
[email protected]
Need a
wheelchair?
We loan wheelchair,
commodes, high back chairs
and other equipment. The
loan is short-term and whilst
there is no charge, we do
ask for a donation.
Harlow Citizens Advice Bureau
0344 477 0808
www.harlowcitizensadvice.org.uk
For loan or sales call
Harlowsave
01279 451234
www.harlowsave.coop
AVAILABLE TO BUY
Money Advice Service
0300 500 5000
www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk
If you live in a Housing Association property,
you may be able to get support and advice
from them. Contact details can be found at:
www.harlowhomefinder.co.uk/contact.aspx
01279 428 569
£60
(prices include delivery and set up charges)
£450
£65
£155
Couple of hours to spare? volunteer with us! call 07738 607684 for more information
Advertisement
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
7
Housing news
Join in with your
estate inspections
We are encouraging more
residents to get involved and
attend as you can help us
identify issues as you are more
familiar with your area.
The timetables for the next
estate and tower block
inspections will be published in
spring 2016.
© Tanusha - Fotolia.com
Estate inspections are your
opportunity to improve your
area and take place twice a
year. Anything from dumped
rubbish, graffiti and damaged
pavements and brick walls, to
unkept gardens and missing
drain covers are picked up on
these inspections.
More details will be available
at www.harlow.gov.uk/estateinspections or by phoning
Contact Harlow on 01279
446655.
Isn’t it better to be
safe than sorry?
For more information, or if you
are a leaseholder landlord and
want to register details of your
tenant, please contact Anna
Martellotta on 01279 446424, or
[email protected]
Repairs Centre
Christmas opening
information
01279 446666
If you are a Harlow
Council tenant, we
may be able to help.
Are you aware that Harlow Council is not
responsible for insuring the contents of your
home? To help you protect yourself financially
against the risk of damage to your possessions,
Harlow Council offers a home contents
insurance scheme that is payable by weekly
instalments.
The policy is provided by Aviva and insures
your possessions against fire, flood, theft, storm
and other perils. There is no excess to pay in
the event of a claim, no minimum security
requirements* and the application process is
simple.
With affordable premiums payable by weekly
instalments, can you really afford not to be
insured?
For an application pack or for
more information call us on
01279 446655.
*This means that you do not have to have a specified security
alarm system or insurance industry approved locks to qualify
for the policy.
FP.ENT.961.LM
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
The Leasehold Standards
Panel has put together a new
“Handbook for tenants of
sublet properties”. This will
be sent out to all tenants of
the Council’s leaseholder
landlords who have registered
their details with us.
The handbook covers tenants’
responsibilities when living in a
flat block, with subjects including
blocking communal walkways,
refuse, smoking in communal
areas, noise and nuisance.
Do you have
Home Contents
Insurance?
8
Handbooks for
tenants of sublet
properties
The Kier Harlow Repairs Centre
will be open from 8am to 4.45pm on:
24 December 2015
29 December 2015
30 December 2015
31 December 2015
A 24-hour genuine emergency
repairs service is available on
Bank Holidays and out of hours.
Normal opening times from 4 Jan 2016.
Advertisement
Do you have
a long-term health
condition or are
you 65 or over?
Cold weather can
be seriously bad for
your health.
Keep yourself warm.
Your home should be
at least 18º C (65º F).
nhs.uk/staywell
Cheril Sowell, Nurse
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
9
Condensation advice
Looking after your home
Keep your home free from damp and mould
When the weather gets colder, condensation in the home can increase which
can cause damp and mould. Don’t worry though, there are simple measures you
can take to reduce condensation and the start of mould.
Reduce moisture
Heating and Insulation
Improve ventilation
• Cover saucepans and close
the kitchen door during and
after cooking.
• Maintain a low heat when the
weather is cold or wet – this
is more effective in keeping
your home warmer and costs
less than short bursts of high
heat. Heat all rooms, even
those not used.
• Keep a window open or use
extract fans during and after
cooking, washing and drying
clothes.
• Close the bathroom door
during and after bathing or
showering.
• Dry clothes outside where
possible and not over
radiators. Otherwise confine
drying to a single room
(preferably the bathroom)
and open the window and
close the door.
• Vent tumble driers to the
outside.
• When bathing, run cold
water first and then hot to
minimise steam.
• Cover fish tanks.
• Wipe down surfaces where
moisture settles.
10 harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
• Do not obstruct radiators
with furniture or overhanging
curtains that prevent heat
circulation.
• Open windows slightly when
your home is occupied or
use fitted trickle vents.
• Allow sunlight into your
home to help warm rooms.
• Do not block air vents –
particularly important where
gas and heating appliances
require oxygen for
combustion while permitting
carbon monoxide to escape.
• Insulating your loft and walls
will help. If you are a Council
tenant, contact us for details
of work planned for your area.
• Allow air to circulate – move
beds and furniture away
from walls and do not overfill wardrobes.
More advice can be found at
www.harlow.gov.uk/condensation
Get ready for winter
Cold weather advice
With temperatures expected to plummet again this winter,
Harlow Council is prepared to help keep the town moving.
In Harlow, only the main roads
are gritted by Essex County
Council, not residential roads.
Residents can check which
roads are gritted by Essex
County Council at:
www.essex.gov.uk/winter
Harlow Council is responsible
for gritting the town centre and
neighbourhood shopping areas.
Harlow Council teams also
put grit down around doctors’
surgeries and sheltered housing
complexes to ensure more
vulnerable residents can get
around safely. We’re ready, but
we’re asking everyone to do
their bit too.
© Fotolia.com
• Keep a close eye on the welfare of neighbours and Guide to clearing
snow and ice
vulnerable people - if you’re concerned about someone let us know.
•
Clear snow and ice from in front of your homes and businesses. If it’s a hazard, see our clearing snow and ice guide (right).
• Please do keep warm.
Pensioners may qualify for extra help and cold weather payments which are paid automatically.
If you’re concerned about
someone:
• Knock on their door and ask them if they are alright.
• If you’re still worried, please let Social Services know on 0345 603 7630.
• If there is an imminent danger dial 999 and speak to the emergency services.
Up-to-date information on
gritting and services affected by
severe weather can be found at
www.harlow.gov.uk
You can also check for regular
updates on closures and any
disruption to services.
© Paul Maguire - Fotolia.com
Patches of ice or frost on
the roads and pavements
can make travel trickier
for cars and pedestrians
alike. To tackle this,
Harlow Council and Essex
County Council have a
stockpile of grit ready to
use to help keep Harlow
moving.
There’s no law stopping
you from clearing snow
and ice on the pavement
outside your home,
business or from public
spaces. It’s unlikely you
will be sued or held legally
responsible for any injuries
if you have cleared it
carefully.
•
Do not use hot water. This will melt the snow, but will replace it with black ice, increasing the risk of injury.
•
Removing the top layer of snow from your path will allow the sun to melt any
ice beneath. However, you will need to cover any ice with salt to stop it from refreezing overnight.
•
Spread some ordinary table salt on the area you have cleared to prevent any ice forming but avoid spreading it on plants or grass.
For more information on how to prepare for winter visit: www.metoffice.gov.uk/learning/get-ready-for-winter
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
11
Restoring Harlow Town Park
New-look Pets’
Corner opens
Harlow Town Park’s much-loved Pets’
Corner, which closed to the public in
February 2015 for major refurbishment,
has reopened.
The Council-run facility, which
celebrates its 50th anniversary
next year, has undergone a
£450,000 renovation as part of
the Town Park’s £2.8 million
regeneration project, which is
part-funded with £1.83 million
from the Heritage Lottery
Fund.
Pets’ Corner benefits from
a new events barn, new
shelters for animals, a new
small animal quarantine room,
updated surfacing, new turf and
drainage and a new duck pond.
New cladding and repairs to
buildings have been completed
throughout, giving the facility a
refreshed new look.
Facilities for staff have also
been upgraded and access for
all visitors has been improved
with a new ramp and hand rails
installed.
A new gift shop and reception
is being fitted out and will be
ready to open soon, and two
new entrance gates will also be
completed shortly to improve
access for all.
Construction work on a new
£275,000 eco-friendly learning
centre next to Pets’ Corner is
ongoing and, once completed,
will host educational visits to
both the Town Park and Pets’
Corner.
Feedback from those of you who
have visited Pets’ Corner since
its reopening has been positive.
Comments we’ve received on
Facebook include:
“Well done Harlow
Council. A lot of money
has gone in to this, but
worth every penny as it
will benefit children and
families for years.”
“No more tramping
through mud etc, but
I’m glad it’s not changed
beyond recognition.”
“Looks great, well done!”
Pets’ Corner is open all year
round (except Christmas Day
and Boxing Day) seven days a
week from 11am. Entry to the
facility continues to be free.
For more information visit:
www.harlow.gov.uk/pets-corner
12 harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
What’s on
A selection of the many events and activities taking
place in Harlow. For more information please visit
www.harlow.gov.uk/events
Gibberd Gallery
01279 446404
[email protected]
www.gibberdgallery.co.uk
The Gibberd Gallery is based
at Harlow Civic Centre and is
open to the public Monday to
Friday 9am-4.45pm. Closed
Bank Holidays.
Saturday 12 December
12noon-2pm
iPad Art - Free Family
Workshop led by artist Alex
Bearne. Create your own digital
masterpiece using our iPads
and painting apps.
Open until 17 December
Exhibition :Xenotopia
Group exhibition featuring
Internationally renowned artists
that explores architecture
and strange fictitious spaces
through the medium of print.
18 Jan to 26 Feb 2016
Harlow Open 16
Celebrating the talent of Harlow
artists. Open Sat 16 January
12noon-2pm.
Harlow Playhouse
01279 431945
www.playhouseharlow.com
Sun 6 December 2015 to
Sun 3 January 2016
Snow White and the Seven
Dwarfs Pantomime
Sat 12 to Thu 24 December
Santa’s Dizzy Day
For children under 7 years old.
Harlow Town Park events
Parkrun – every Saturday 9am
Meet at School Lane car park.
Before your first run, register at
www.parkrun.org.uk/harlow
pay what you can
harlow playhouse
C R E AT E
ENJOY
FOR ALL
There really isn’t anything like live theatre. Now, at Harlow
Playhouse, theatre truly is available for all. No barriers, no
worries, no risk. Book for as many productions as you like
from the list below, and after each show just Pay What You
Can, whether it’s ten pence or ten pounds. Our first-class
range includes:
Xmas Day Parkrun 9.30am.
Meet at School Lane car park.
Festive running outfits are
encouraged!
FREE
Bound ● Confirmation ● The Chairs ●
Backstage in Biscuit Land ● The Hogwallops ●
Jonny & The Baptists ● Handle with Care ●
Weekend Rockstars ● Work Play ● Women’s Hour
Town Park Volunteers
Thu 10 and 17 December
FREE
10am-2pm
Meet at entrance to Walled
Garden (next to Pets’ Corner).
Visit www.playhouseharlow.com or call the Box Office 01279 431945
Health Walk
FREE
Fri 11 December 10am-11am
Meet at Greyhound car park.
Town Park Weekend
FREE
Volunteers
Sat 12 December 1pm-3pm
Meet at Pets’ Corner entrance.
Guided Walk - Winter wander
Saturday 12 December REE
F
10am-11.30am.
Meet at Greyhound car park.
Contact Mike Levett 01279
446834 for volunteer events or
[email protected]
Pets’ Corner
Annual Nativity Play
Thu 17 December 6.30pm
Live nativity with star
appearances from the Pets’
Corner animals and local
children. Refreshments
available. Although this is a free
event, donations are always
welcome.
FREE
Parndon Wood Nature Reserve
01279 430005
www.ecco.org.uk
some donkeys throughout
the weekend! £3 per child.
Booking in advance advised.
Sat 12 to Sun 13 December &
Sat 19 to Sun 20 December
Santa’s Grotto 11am-4pm.
Visit Santa as he visits the
nature reserve. Join our Elf
hunt around the trail, festive
arts and crafts and say hello to
Photography competition
Running throughout December
the theme of the competition
is festive shots. Images can
be submitted on social media
using #pwphotocomp and
must have been taken within
the nature reserve. For full
terms and conditions, please
see www.ecco.org.uk Winners
receive a free cake and hot
drink voucher to use at the
reserve. Deadline midnight on
31 December 2015.
Friday 11 December
Afternoon Tea in the Woods
Join us for a spot of Afternoon
Tea in our beautiful woodland.
Booking in advance required,
£10 per person.
Event information correct at time of going to press. Please check times, dates and prices by calling the relevant contact number.
Children must be accompanied by an adult at all events.
Northern Ballet presents
Tortoise and The Hare:
This fabulous 40 minute
version of a popular fable is
the perfect opportunity
for little ones to come
and enjoy live ballet,
music and theatre.
Free Family Ticket
Voucher
harlow playhouse
C R E AT E
ENJOY
FOR ALL
Bring this voucher to the Harlow Playhouse Box Office, Playhouse Square, Harlow and
claim your free Family Ticket (up to four people) to see Northern Ballet’s latest family
show Tortoise and The Hare on Saturday 13 February 2016.
By claiming your free ticket you give Harlow Council permission to collect and use either your
email address, telephone number or home address to inform you of future promotional offers
and events at Harlow Playhouse. Your information will not be shared with any third party.
harlow
Offer available for Harlow residents only. Suitable for 3+.
One family ticket per voucher, subject to availability.
Vouchers and tickets are not transferrable. No photocopies accepted.
times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
13
Councillor Information
Bush Fair
Church Langley
Councillor Manny Doku
Labour
Councillor Simon Carter
Conservative
56 Great Brays, CM18 6DN
Tel: 306569 / 07988 372357
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Dan Long
UKIP
57 Longfield CM18 6LA
Tel: 07775 799985
Email: [email protected]
CHAIR
Councillor Tony Hall
Conservative
Councillor Eddie Johnson
Conservative
Fullers End, Kingsdon Lane, CM17 9AB
Tel: 445897
Email: [email protected]
47 Old Orchard, CM18 6YQ
Tel: 312195
Email: [email protected]
Councillor David Carter
Conservative
15 Spencers Croft, CM18 6JX
Tel: 442669
Email: [email protected]
78 Mallards Rise, CM17 9PL
Tel: 865673
Email: [email protected]
23 Greygoose Park, CM19 4JL
Tel: 420340
Email: [email protected]
Little Parndon & Hare Street
Councillor Jon Clempner
Labour
Mark Hall
Councillor Jacqui Cross
Labour
1 Canons Brook, CM19 4EE
Tel: 436444
Email: [email protected]
c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG
Councillor Tony Durcan
Labour
Councillor Danny Purton
Labour
329 Rundells, CM18 7HN
Tel: 414357
Email: [email protected]
c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG
Tel: 07763 486882
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Mark Wilkinson
Labour
Councillor Jean Clark
Labour
Councillor Bob Davis
Labour
56 Sakins Croft, CM18 7BP
Tel: 07718 696429
Email: [email protected]
4 Rushmead Villas, CM20 2QE
Tel: 423474
Email: [email protected]
5 Commonfields, CM20 3QE
Tel: 300582
Email: [email protected]
c/o Harlow Council,
Civic Centre, CM20 1WG
Tel: 07885 881255
DEPUTY LEADER Email: [email protected]
LEADER
Councillor Maggie Hulcoop
Labour
330 Carters Mead, CM17 9HA
Tel: 452252
Email: [email protected]
Netteswell
VICE-CHAIR
78 Mallards Rise, CM17 9PL
Tel: 865673
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Andrew Johnson
Conservative
Councillor Emma Toal
Labour
Portfolio Holder
71 Mark Hall Moors, CM20 2NF
Tel: 429443
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Ian Beckett
Labour
Harlow Common
Portfolio Holder
Great Parndon
Councillor Shona Johnson
Conservative
Portfolio Holder
Portfolio Holder
Old Harlow
Tel: 07599 188756
Email: [email protected]
Staple Tye
Councillor Waida Forman
Labour
Councillor Muriel Jolles
Conservative
Councillor Patrick McCabe
Labour
16 Holmes Meadow, CM19 5SG
Tel: 07970 732314
Email: [email protected]
c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG
Tel: 432242
Email: [email protected]
61 Great Plumtree, CM20 2NU
Tel: 861177 / 07701 060520
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Mike Danvers
Labour
Councillor Joel Charles
Conservative
Councillor Bill Pryor
UKIP
65 Tunnmeade, CM20 3HN
Tel: 425934
Email: [email protected]
86 Jocelyns, CM17 0BU
Tel: 07752 096765
Email: [email protected]
3 Joyners Field, CM18 7PU
Tel: 07780 876934
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Edna Stevens
Labour
Councillor Sue Livings
Conservative
Councillor John Strachan
Labour
210 Fullers Mead, CM17 9AX
Tel: 324183
Email: [email protected]
15 Seeleys, CM17 0AD
Tel: 422339
Email: [email protected]
c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG
Sumners & Kingsmoor
Toddbrook
Councillor Russell Perrin
Conservative
Councillor Phil Waite
Labour
Tel: 312195
Email: [email protected]
1 Spruce Hill, CM18 7SR
Tel: 07812 147663
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Nick Churchill
Conservative
Councillor Rod Truan
Labour
c/o Harlow Council, Civic Centre, CM20 1WG
215 Brockles Mead, CM19 4QA
Tel: 621094
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Clive Souter
Conservative
227 Longbanks, CM18 7PB
Tel: 07850 667900
Email: [email protected]
Know your Cabinet Members:
Portfolio Holder
www.harlow.gov.uk
Political make-up
19 Seats
Labour
12 Seats
Conservative
17C High Street , CM17 0DN
Tel: 07850 907232
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Karen Clempner
Labour
2 Seats
UKIP
1 Canons Brook, CM19 4EE
Tel: 436444
Email: [email protected]
Councillor Jon Clempner - Leader of Harlow Council
Councillor Emma Toal - Deputy Leader & Portfolio Holder for Youth & Community
Councillor Jean Clark - Portfolio Holder for Governance
Councillor Mike Danvers - Portfolio Holder for Resources
Councillor Tony Durcan - Portfolio Holder for Regeneration & Enterprise
Councillor Rod Truan - Portfolio Holder for Housing
Councillor Mark Wilkinson - Portfolio Holder for Environment
14 harlow times · winter 2015
Tel: 323656 / 07941 829965
Email: [email protected]
Ward Surgeries
Please contact your Ward Councillors
for details of up-coming Ward
Surgeries.
For more information on who your
Councillors are visit:
www.harlow.gov.uk/councillors
Christmas recycling guide
Keeping your bin
happy all year
We need your help to reduce
recycling contamination.
Contamination happens when
items which cannot be recycled
are put in your recycling bin or
container.
This means unfortunately some
loads of recycling could be
rejected by the recycling facility.
When recycling is rejected it
has to be sent for alternative
disposal like to landfill. This
costs the Council more money
and also means that your
carefully recycled items cannot
be transformed into new and
valuable products – what a waste!
Keep your bin happy and help
us avoid contamination. Follow
our guide below on what you can
recycle. Unfortunately, we will
not be able to empty your bin if
it is contaminated. If in
doubt always check
www.harlow.gov.uk/
recycling
Recycle your real
Christmas tree
In January 2016 you can book
a Christmas tree collection at
www.harlow.gov.uk/greenwaste for just £2 a tree. All the
trees we collect are composted.
If you have signed up for our
fortnightly garden waste
collections just put your tree out
on your collection day.
What to do with your
waste and recycling in
extreme weather
During heavy snow and ice,
recycling and waste collections
can be disrupted. For up-to-theminute information please visit
www.harlow.gov.uk
Extra non-recycling
over Christmas...
We will collect one extra bag of
non-recycling per household on
the first non-recycling collection
after Christmas Day.
Extra food waste can be placed
in compostable liners on top of
your caddy or in a cardboard box.
Extra recycling should be put
out as normal visit:
www.harlow.gov.uk/recycling
Food waste tip:
Christmas means extra people
and extra food; for tips to help you
make the most of the food you buy
visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com
Please remember to only put
food waste in newspaper
or use compostable
liners showing this logo:
Your revised Christmas and New Year
waste and recycling collections
Normal Collection
Revised Collection
Normal Collection
Revised Collection
Normal Collection
Revised Collection
Date
Day
Date
Day
Date
Day
Date
Day
Date
Day
Date
Day
25/12/2015
Fri
29/12/2015
Tue
01/01/2016
Fri
05/01/2016
Tue
08/01/2016
Fri
11/01/2016
Mon
28/12/2015
Mon
30/12/2015
Wed
04/01/2016
Mon
06/01/2016
Wed
11/01/2016
Mon
12/01/2016
Tue
29/12/2015
Tue
31/12/2015
Thu
05/01/2016
Tue
07/01/2016
Thu
12/01/2016
Tue
13/01/2016
Wed
30/12/2015
Wed
02/01/2016
Sat
06/01/2016
Wed
08/01/2016
Fri
13/01/2016
Wed
14/01/2016
Thu
31/12/2015
Thu
04/01/2016
Mon
07/01/2016
Thu
09/01/2016
Sat
14/01/2016
Thu
15/01/2016
Fri
15/01/2016
Fri
16/01/2016
Sat
You can also check your revised collection days at www.harlow.gov.uk
Normal collection days will return from Monday 18 January 2016
Weekly food waste collection
Fortnightly recycling collection
harlow times · winter 2015
www.harlow.gov.uk
15
Useful numbers and websites
Adult Social Services
0345 603 7630 www.essex.gov.uk
Essex Police
101
www.essex.police.uk
Kier Harlow Ltd Repairs Centre
01279 446666
www.harlow.gov.uk/housing-repairs
Affinity Water
0345 357 2407 www.affinitywater.co.uk
Gas Leak Emergency Number
0800 111 999
National Rail Enquiries
0345 7484 950
www.nationalrail.co.uk
Arriva Buses
0344 800 4411
www.arriva.co.uk
Blue Badge Enquiries
0345 603 7630
www.essexhighways.org
Bus Pass Helpline
0845 200 0388
www.essexhighways.org
Children’s Social Services
0345 603 7627 www.essex.gov.uk
Essex County Council
Contact Essex
0345 743 0430
www.essex.gov.uk
Essex Highways
For traffic updates and to report
potholes and faulty street lights
0345 603 7631
www.essexhighways.org
Harlow Bus Station
01279 426349 www.harlow.gov.uk/bus-station
Harlow Citizens’ Advice Bureau
0344 477 0808
www.harlowcitizensadvice.org.uk
Harlow College
01279 868000
www.harlow-college.ac.uk
Harlow Council
Contact Harlow
01279 446655
www.harlow.gov.uk
NHS Choices
111
www.nhs.uk
Parndon Wood Cemetery
& Crematorium
01279 620620
www.parndonwoodcrem.co.uk
Post Office Customer Helpline
0345 722 3344
www.postoffice.co.uk
Princess Alexandra Hospital
01279 444455
www.pah.nhs.uk
Harlow Leisurezone
01279 621500
www.harlowleisurezone.co.uk
Samaritans
116 123 (free)
www.samaritans.org
Harlow Registry Office
0845 603 7632
www.essex.gov.uk
Schools Admissions
0345 603 2200
www.essex.gov.uk/admissions
Job Centre Plus
0345 606 0234
www.gov.uk/contact-jobcentre-plus
UK Power Networks (power cuts)
0800 316 3105
www.ukpowernetworks.co.uk
Contact Harlow opening times over Christmas:
Open: 9am - 4.45pm
Monday 21 December 2015
to Thursday 24 December 2015
Closed:
Friday 25 December 2015
Monday 28 December 2015
Tuesday 29 December 2015
Wednesday 30 December 2015
Thursday 31 December 2015
Friday 1 January 2016
Normal opening hours from
Monday 4 January 2016
Most Harlow Council services
will shut down between
Christmas and New Year. This
helps to save money on energy
and building costs.
Contact Harlow is extremely busy
before Christmas and the few days
after the New Year. If you phone or
visit us, it is likely that you will have
to wait longer than normal.
You can still access Council
services online by visiting
www.harlow.gov.uk where you
can book services, pay bills and
find a wealth of information. The
Council can be contacted in an
emergency on 01279 446666.
Paying Council Bills
You can pay your Council bills
24 hours a day, seven days a
week with a credit/debit card at
www.harlow.gov.uk or by phoning
the automated bill payment line on
01279 446600.
Harlow Times can also be read online
at www.harlow.gov.uk/harlow-times
The online edition is compatible with a
variety of screen reading software.
www.facebook.com/harlowcouncil
C o u nc i l
Tweet us your views
www.twitter.com/harlowcouncil
Harlow Times is published quarterly by Harlow Council to keep you informed.
This magazine is distributed by Royal Mail. In some areas where postcodes overlap the boundaries of Harlow and other Councils, a small number of
residents outside Harlow will also receive this magazine. We hope our residents will appreciate that this system of delivery is one of the most efficient
and that our extra readers on the borders of the town will enjoy their complimentary copies and news about their nearest important town.
Most photographs produced and copyrights owned by Brian Thomas Photography.
© Harlow Council 2015. You may re-use this information (excluding logos) free of charge in any format or medium, under the terms of the Open
Government Licence v2.0. To view this licence, visit www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/doc/open-government-licence/version/2/ or email
[email protected]. Where we have identified any third-party copyright information, you will need to obtain permission
from the copyright holders concerned. Any enquiries regarding this publication should be sent to Communications, Harlow Council, Civic Centre,
The Water Gardens, Harlow, Essex CM20 1WG or email [email protected]