Friday, 23 June 2006
Getting prepared for filming Atonement
In preparation for the forthcoming scenes to be shot at Redcar, Working Title Films Special effects Department, are carrying out black smoke and ash tests on the beach between the Cinema and Coatham Enclosure from lunchtime onwardsTuesday 27th June.
Tuesday, 20 June 2006
Lib Dem Quiz Nights at Redcar Cricket Club
Redcar Lib Dems are hosting the following Quiz Nights at Redcar Cricket Club all starting 8pm for 8.30pm:
27th June 2006
25th July 2006
22nd August 2006
26th September 2006
31st October 2006
28th November 2006
27th June 2006
25th July 2006
22nd August 2006
26th September 2006
31st October 2006
28th November 2006
Council welcomes housing cash
Redcar and Cleveland Council is today welcoming the Government announcement that it is to receive a share of £18.25 million to tackle the housing market collapse in South Bank.
The Housing Market Renewal Cash is being divided by Tees Valley Living between the four authorities and a decision on how much will be allocated to South Bank is expected within weeks.
The Cabinet Member for Housing and Neighbourhood Renewal, Councillor Chris Abbott, said: “We are pleased to receive confirmation of the funding that will help us start to deliver a new South Bank that people can be proud to live in.
“We also remain absolutely committed to seeking additional funding sources to ensure we give the people of South Bank what we said we would and what they rightly deserve.”
The Chairman of the South Bank Housing Strategy Steering Group, South Bank ward councillor Ian Jeffrey, said: "South Bank has a well established case. The people of South Bank deserve the money and we are looking forward to an early start to the work so that people can feel that progress is being made."
The Renewal Plan involves the acquisition and clearance of nearly 362 properties - 205 of these over the next two years, of which 142 are already empty.
The first phase of the scheme, officially titled the South Bank Renewal Plan, focuses on clearing the areas of older terraced housing with the highest proportion of voids, while ensuring others are not left in isolation.
The Housing Market Renewal Cash is being divided by Tees Valley Living between the four authorities and a decision on how much will be allocated to South Bank is expected within weeks.
The Cabinet Member for Housing and Neighbourhood Renewal, Councillor Chris Abbott, said: “We are pleased to receive confirmation of the funding that will help us start to deliver a new South Bank that people can be proud to live in.
“We also remain absolutely committed to seeking additional funding sources to ensure we give the people of South Bank what we said we would and what they rightly deserve.”
The Chairman of the South Bank Housing Strategy Steering Group, South Bank ward councillor Ian Jeffrey, said: "South Bank has a well established case. The people of South Bank deserve the money and we are looking forward to an early start to the work so that people can feel that progress is being made."
The Renewal Plan involves the acquisition and clearance of nearly 362 properties - 205 of these over the next two years, of which 142 are already empty.
The first phase of the scheme, officially titled the South Bank Renewal Plan, focuses on clearing the areas of older terraced housing with the highest proportion of voids, while ensuring others are not left in isolation.
Thursday, 8 June 2006
New venue and new sponsor for Flat Cap Fling
Redcar Yorkshire Day Celebrations
Saturday 29th July 2006
Flat Cap Fling
Winner will receive the DJ Tucker Ltd Cup
Plus prizes for the first three places
FREE ENTRY
11am to 12 noon on Redcar High Street
(near the Town Clock)
Sponsored by DJ Tucker Ltd
Electrical & Mechanical Engineers
Zetland Buildings
Marske by the Sea
Redcar, Yorkshire, TS11 6HS
Saturday 29th July 2006
Flat Cap Fling
Winner will receive the DJ Tucker Ltd Cup
Plus prizes for the first three places
FREE ENTRY
11am to 12 noon on Redcar High Street
(near the Town Clock)
Sponsored by DJ Tucker Ltd
Electrical & Mechanical Engineers
Zetland Buildings
Marske by the Sea
Redcar, Yorkshire, TS11 6HS
Entry form for the 2006 North Riding Duck Race.
Below is an entry form for the 2006 North Riding Duck Race.
This year there will be only one category and the winner will receive the Colin Holt Cup, in memory of the Ridings Society Chair who died recently.
To enter the race please print off the form and return it to me.
If anyone is interested in sponsoring the race please let us know.
Entry Form £1.00 per entry
Your Name.........................................................................
Address...............................................................................
.........................................................................................
Telephone...........................................................................
E-Mail..................................................................................
Name of Duck........................................Entry Fee............
Name of Duck........................................Entry Fee............
Name of Duck........................................Entry Fee............
Name of Duck........................................Entry Fee............
Return to Cllr Chris Abbott 39 Essex Close, Redcar, Yorkshire, TS10 4BY.
Proceeds to the YRS North Riding Group Campaign Fund
This year there will be only one category and the winner will receive the Colin Holt Cup, in memory of the Ridings Society Chair who died recently.
To enter the race please print off the form and return it to me.
If anyone is interested in sponsoring the race please let us know.
North Riding of Yorkshire
DUCK RACE
Saturday 29th July 2006
2.30pm
Saltburn Beck, Saltburn
Winner will receive the Colin Holt Cup
Plus prizes for the first three places
Prize for most original name
DUCK RACE
Saturday 29th July 2006
2.30pm
Saltburn Beck, Saltburn
Winner will receive the Colin Holt Cup
Plus prizes for the first three places
Prize for most original name
Entry Form £1.00 per entry
Your Name.........................................................................
Address...............................................................................
.........................................................................................
Telephone...........................................................................
E-Mail..................................................................................
Name of Duck........................................Entry Fee............
Name of Duck........................................Entry Fee............
Name of Duck........................................Entry Fee............
Name of Duck........................................Entry Fee............
Return to Cllr Chris Abbott 39 Essex Close, Redcar, Yorkshire, TS10 4BY.
Proceeds to the YRS North Riding Group Campaign Fund
Tuesday, 6 June 2006
Dig at Coatham finds no delay
AN archaeological team that has been delving deep to dig up the past on the site earmarked for the multi million pounds Coatham Links scheme in Redcar has not found anything that could delay the development.
Redcar and Cleveland Council’s development partner Persimmon Homes has commissioned the investigation as part of the preparatory work for the planning application due later this Summer.
A team of five archaeologists will be on the site until Friday, including Senior Keeper Steve Speak and Keeper of Field Archaeology Gary Brogan from Tyne and Wear Museums, who have dug out seven trial trenches across the site as they look for relics.
Gary said: “It is standard practice these days for developers to engage archaeologists and other specialists to study sites before construction work begins.
“We chose the seven sites by looking at anomalies thrown up by a geophysical study. So we are trying to find out what their origin is, whether it is archaeological or geological, and as such we are looking for evidence of human occupation in the upper part of the soil."
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Councillor Vera Moody said: ”It is fascinating to think about what could have been there before - the saltpans and former settlements in the vicinity - and it will be really interesting to hear about the investigations and the conclusions.”
Redcar and Cleveland Council’s development partner Persimmon Homes has commissioned the investigation as part of the preparatory work for the planning application due later this Summer.
A team of five archaeologists will be on the site until Friday, including Senior Keeper Steve Speak and Keeper of Field Archaeology Gary Brogan from Tyne and Wear Museums, who have dug out seven trial trenches across the site as they look for relics.
Gary said: “It is standard practice these days for developers to engage archaeologists and other specialists to study sites before construction work begins.
“We chose the seven sites by looking at anomalies thrown up by a geophysical study. So we are trying to find out what their origin is, whether it is archaeological or geological, and as such we are looking for evidence of human occupation in the upper part of the soil."
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Councillor Vera Moody said: ”It is fascinating to think about what could have been there before - the saltpans and former settlements in the vicinity - and it will be really interesting to hear about the investigations and the conclusions.”
Thursday, 1 June 2006
Council applauds grants for new housing schemes
Posted by Chris
Redcar and Cleveland Council today applauded an £8.5million programme for new housing schemes in the Borough, including the conversion of a derelict petrol station site into homes for the over 55s.
The five schemes planned by three local housing associations, which will provide a total of 68 new units, are benefiting from a £4.164m Housing Corporation Grant, part of the National Affordable Housing Programme, towards their completion over the next two years.
We are delighted with the grant allocation and are sure that the housing associations will maximise the impact of this expenditure.
I am particularly pleased to welcome Tees Valley Housing's proposals to redevelop the Roseberry Road petrol station site at Redcar into accommodation for the over 55s. That site has been an eyesore for too long and I'm sure residents will be looking forward to a positive conclusion.
Tees Valley Housing Group is in the process of agreeing terms of sale with the Council for the site to develop 12 units and this £1.395m scheme will complement the wider Courts development, a partnership between the Group and private developers.
The Group also receives half its £2.938m project cost for providing 20 extra care units, alongside 20 privately-financed apartments at Lodge Farm, Eston. A third scheme, costing £2.938m, with a £1.5m grant, will provide 23 family homes, a mix of rented and shared ownership, at Church Lane, Eston.
The Accent Housing Group is in negotiation to buy land for six affordable shared ownership homes at Guisborough in a £820,000 scheme, helped by a £158,000 grant.
The Three Rivers Housing Group has funding to refurbish the Council-owned Hollingside at Saltburn to provide six special needs residential units in a £673,000 scheme, boosted by a £525,000 grant.
Redcar and Cleveland Council today applauded an £8.5million programme for new housing schemes in the Borough, including the conversion of a derelict petrol station site into homes for the over 55s.
The five schemes planned by three local housing associations, which will provide a total of 68 new units, are benefiting from a £4.164m Housing Corporation Grant, part of the National Affordable Housing Programme, towards their completion over the next two years.
We are delighted with the grant allocation and are sure that the housing associations will maximise the impact of this expenditure.
I am particularly pleased to welcome Tees Valley Housing's proposals to redevelop the Roseberry Road petrol station site at Redcar into accommodation for the over 55s. That site has been an eyesore for too long and I'm sure residents will be looking forward to a positive conclusion.
Tees Valley Housing Group is in the process of agreeing terms of sale with the Council for the site to develop 12 units and this £1.395m scheme will complement the wider Courts development, a partnership between the Group and private developers.
The Group also receives half its £2.938m project cost for providing 20 extra care units, alongside 20 privately-financed apartments at Lodge Farm, Eston. A third scheme, costing £2.938m, with a £1.5m grant, will provide 23 family homes, a mix of rented and shared ownership, at Church Lane, Eston.
The Accent Housing Group is in negotiation to buy land for six affordable shared ownership homes at Guisborough in a £820,000 scheme, helped by a £158,000 grant.
The Three Rivers Housing Group has funding to refurbish the Council-owned Hollingside at Saltburn to provide six special needs residential units in a £673,000 scheme, boosted by a £525,000 grant.
Thursday, 18 May 2006
Be an extra in Redcar's blockbuster film
Redcar and Cleveland Council is set to receive the final plans which could turn Redcar seafront into 1940s Dunkirk as the setting for a £36 million blockbuster movie.
The production company, Working Title Films, has drawn up a draft timetable for the war time movie which could see set building starting from early July and closure of the Esplanade from the Regent Cinema to the boating lake at the end of August for filming to start.
The Regional Screen Agency for the North East, Northern Film and Media, has started a recruitment drive for up to 1,000 local extras, for the film based on the Ian McEwan novel, Atonement, alongside confirmed stars Keira Knightly and James McAvoy
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for Redcar. Of course, it’s not 100 per cent certain yet but this film is a fantastic showcase for the town and its residents.
“Working Title Films has assured us they are not considering any other towns for filming and are now looking for further locations in Redcar and across the Borough, which is very promising”.
Northern Film & Media Location Service Manager, Gayle Mason, said: “Working Title Films has commented on how positive the Council have been and how much progress has been made, they’ve had a great reception from the North East”.
Working Title Films sent 50 members of its technical crew to visit the town this week to inspect locations and make preparations ready to turn parts of the town into war time scene.
To apply for a part as an extra download an application form by logging on to the Northern Film and Media website at http://www.northernmedia.org/ and click on locations, crew & facilities. The form will ask for basic details including name, address, age, height, dress or collar size and a mid-shot photograph.
The production company, Working Title Films, has drawn up a draft timetable for the war time movie which could see set building starting from early July and closure of the Esplanade from the Regent Cinema to the boating lake at the end of August for filming to start.
The Regional Screen Agency for the North East, Northern Film and Media, has started a recruitment drive for up to 1,000 local extras, for the film based on the Ian McEwan novel, Atonement, alongside confirmed stars Keira Knightly and James McAvoy
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for Redcar. Of course, it’s not 100 per cent certain yet but this film is a fantastic showcase for the town and its residents.
“Working Title Films has assured us they are not considering any other towns for filming and are now looking for further locations in Redcar and across the Borough, which is very promising”.
Northern Film & Media Location Service Manager, Gayle Mason, said: “Working Title Films has commented on how positive the Council have been and how much progress has been made, they’ve had a great reception from the North East”.
Working Title Films sent 50 members of its technical crew to visit the town this week to inspect locations and make preparations ready to turn parts of the town into war time scene.
To apply for a part as an extra download an application form by logging on to the Northern Film and Media website at http://www.northernmedia.org/ and click on locations, crew & facilities. The form will ask for basic details including name, address, age, height, dress or collar size and a mid-shot photograph.
Monday, 8 May 2006
Super Leeds
Posted by Chris
What a night for Leeds United! What a match! What superb support from the fans! They drowned out the commentator the whole match long. I have not enjoyed a match so much for two or three years.
Leeds were brilliant. They never stopped trying and it all came good in the end. It will be a real miracle if we get back in the Premiership this time, after coming so close to going out of business such a short time ago. If they play in Cardiff with the same determination as they did tonight they can beat anyone.
What a night for Leeds United! What a match! What superb support from the fans! They drowned out the commentator the whole match long. I have not enjoyed a match so much for two or three years.
Leeds were brilliant. They never stopped trying and it all came good in the end. It will be a real miracle if we get back in the Premiership this time, after coming so close to going out of business such a short time ago. If they play in Cardiff with the same determination as they did tonight they can beat anyone.
Re-development of Roseberry Square underway
Demolition of the northern block of Roseberry Square will allow work to commence on the new district shopping centre that is set to replace the unsightly, vandalism plagued, 1960’s facility.
Following long, drawn out, negotiations with existing leaseholders, an agreement was signed on 7th April 2006, between the Council and Bellway & Persimmon, who in turn entered into a sub-agreement with Stirling Capital on the same day.
Stirling Capital are the developers for the commercial elements of the project. Bellway & Persimmon are the developers for the residential element.
Stirling Capital have appointed York House Construction as their main contractor.
The first phase of demolition, will remove the northern, unoccupied block, Oasis Public House, the Health Clinic and the Youth & Community Centre. It was due to begin in the week commencing 8th May 2006 and due to complete 5 weeks later.
The second phase of demolition the remaining shopping includes Ladbrooks, Bells, Scott-Chem, Johnson Dentist, and the Library. It is currently scheduled for mid to end February 2007 and will follow the completion and fit-out of the long awaited new district shopping centre.
Following long, drawn out, negotiations with existing leaseholders, an agreement was signed on 7th April 2006, between the Council and Bellway & Persimmon, who in turn entered into a sub-agreement with Stirling Capital on the same day.
Stirling Capital are the developers for the commercial elements of the project. Bellway & Persimmon are the developers for the residential element.
Stirling Capital have appointed York House Construction as their main contractor.
The first phase of demolition, will remove the northern, unoccupied block, Oasis Public House, the Health Clinic and the Youth & Community Centre. It was due to begin in the week commencing 8th May 2006 and due to complete 5 weeks later.
The second phase of demolition the remaining shopping includes Ladbrooks, Bells, Scott-Chem, Johnson Dentist, and the Library. It is currently scheduled for mid to end February 2007 and will follow the completion and fit-out of the long awaited new district shopping centre.
Sea front shelters enjoy a facelift
Liberal Democrat Councillors Irene Curr and Josie Crawford do love to be beside the seaside - even more so now that their favourite seafront shelters have been given a facelift.
Sadly, vandals had wrecked havoc on the three Esplanade shelters, smashing windows, breaking panels and daubing the structures with graffiti.
Now thanks to funding from both the Council's Redcar Area Environment Committee and the Council's highways partner, Alfred McAlpine, the shelters are gleaming again.
Councillor Curr, the Committee's chair and, along with Councillor Crawford a Coatham ward councillor, said: "I think they look lovely. They looked really unloved with all the vandalism - now I'm really pleased they're back looking as good as new."
The Council's Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Development and Infrastructure Councillor Eric Empson praised the five weeks work and said: "They're an asset to the town again. What could be nicer than looking out to sea in comfort and pleasant surroundings."
Sadly, vandals had wrecked havoc on the three Esplanade shelters, smashing windows, breaking panels and daubing the structures with graffiti.
Now thanks to funding from both the Council's Redcar Area Environment Committee and the Council's highways partner, Alfred McAlpine, the shelters are gleaming again.
Councillor Curr, the Committee's chair and, along with Councillor Crawford a Coatham ward councillor, said: "I think they look lovely. They looked really unloved with all the vandalism - now I'm really pleased they're back looking as good as new."
The Council's Cabinet Member for Strategic Planning, Development and Infrastructure Councillor Eric Empson praised the five weeks work and said: "They're an asset to the town again. What could be nicer than looking out to sea in comfort and pleasant surroundings."
Thursday, 13 April 2006
Surveys start at Coatham
Consultants working towards a planning application for the multi million pounds Coatham Links development in Redcar are starting a series of studies to support the application, the outcomes of which will also address concerns raised by residents during consultation.
Persimmon Homes has commissioned a variety of different surveys to be carried out in the coming weeks. They include detailed geophysical studies and ecological surveys which address any plant or wildlife on the site and archaeological trenching which checks for any relics.
Persimmon's Regional Projects Director, Peter Jordan, said: "We are very excited about the appointment of our specialist team who will assist Persimmon in preparing a robust and thorough planning application with supporting environmental statement.
"With the approval of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, we have appointed a wide range of consultants who are experts in their relative fields and will be looking at Coatham very closely. This will entail a number of site visits over the coming months to assess the impact the proposed development will have on the area.”
Persimmon Homes has commissioned a variety of different surveys to be carried out in the coming weeks. They include detailed geophysical studies and ecological surveys which address any plant or wildlife on the site and archaeological trenching which checks for any relics.
Persimmon's Regional Projects Director, Peter Jordan, said: "We are very excited about the appointment of our specialist team who will assist Persimmon in preparing a robust and thorough planning application with supporting environmental statement.
"With the approval of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council, we have appointed a wide range of consultants who are experts in their relative fields and will be looking at Coatham very closely. This will entail a number of site visits over the coming months to assess the impact the proposed development will have on the area.”
Wednesday, 5 April 2006
Another award for Coalition Council
More good news for Redcar and Cleveland Council today. We celebrate Investor In People status, which has praised the Authority's good business planning, its equal opportunity culture and joint development working with other organisations.
A cross-directorate group is already implementing a number of recommendations in areas for future development, centring on consistency and effective implementing of corporate policies and procedures, which will be closely monitored.
The Investors in People Standard is awarded indefinitely, subject to regular reviews no more than three years apart to make sure standards are met and to assess progress made since the last visit.
A cross-directorate group is already implementing a number of recommendations in areas for future development, centring on consistency and effective implementing of corporate policies and procedures, which will be closely monitored.
The Investors in People Standard is awarded indefinitely, subject to regular reviews no more than three years apart to make sure standards are met and to assess progress made since the last visit.
Council to probe fish oil benefits
Posted by Chris
The dreaded part of our regular Saturday visits to my Grandma, for my brother and I, when we were kids, were the doses of cod liver oil she gave us before we set off for the bus home. Yuc!!! I can still taste it now. As soon as we got out of the door we were into the bag of sweets, she always gave us to share with our other brothers and sisters, to take the taste away.
The practice seemed to have gone out of fashion, though Glynis used to give our kids a cod liver oil and malt mixture. It seems to be now back in fashion and the Council has issued the following statement today:
The possibility of using fish oil supplements to improve pupil performances in more schools across Redcar and Cleveland is set to be investigated.
Two projects have already been carried out at Loftus Junior School and Eston Park Comprehensive with 'potentially significant benefits', councillors have been told.
Now the Council's Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee wants more wide-ranging consultation on the options for the promotion of fish-oil supplements and is urging more schools to take part in trials.
Our Lib Dem colleague and Committee chair Councillor Mary Ovens said: "We're not saying this is some sort of magic formula, but there's no doubt that the results have been very encouraging in some cases and the scrutiny committee felt everyone would benefit from more consultation.
"We would also like more schools to consider taking part in these trials because of the possible benefits and so we can look and compare more data."
In a report to councillors, the Council's principal educational psychologist Alastair Robertson said: "On the basis of the evidence available, the use of fish oil supplements appears to hold some significant potential benefits for some pupils with little evidence of disadvantage. Should any pupil not respond positively, cessation of the supplements would be a simple solution.
"We would advise schools and parents wishing to try supplements that they should do so, but to monitor the effects for their individual children. Such monitoring need not be elaborate but should include learning and behaviour."
The benefits of taking fish oils is thought to relate to the high Omega 3 and Omega 6 content. These fatty acids are essential to the functioning of the brain, but cannot be made by the body and have to be ingested.
The dreaded part of our regular Saturday visits to my Grandma, for my brother and I, when we were kids, were the doses of cod liver oil she gave us before we set off for the bus home. Yuc!!! I can still taste it now. As soon as we got out of the door we were into the bag of sweets, she always gave us to share with our other brothers and sisters, to take the taste away.
The practice seemed to have gone out of fashion, though Glynis used to give our kids a cod liver oil and malt mixture. It seems to be now back in fashion and the Council has issued the following statement today:
The possibility of using fish oil supplements to improve pupil performances in more schools across Redcar and Cleveland is set to be investigated.
Two projects have already been carried out at Loftus Junior School and Eston Park Comprehensive with 'potentially significant benefits', councillors have been told.
Now the Council's Children's Services Overview and Scrutiny Committee wants more wide-ranging consultation on the options for the promotion of fish-oil supplements and is urging more schools to take part in trials.
Our Lib Dem colleague and Committee chair Councillor Mary Ovens said: "We're not saying this is some sort of magic formula, but there's no doubt that the results have been very encouraging in some cases and the scrutiny committee felt everyone would benefit from more consultation.
"We would also like more schools to consider taking part in these trials because of the possible benefits and so we can look and compare more data."
In a report to councillors, the Council's principal educational psychologist Alastair Robertson said: "On the basis of the evidence available, the use of fish oil supplements appears to hold some significant potential benefits for some pupils with little evidence of disadvantage. Should any pupil not respond positively, cessation of the supplements would be a simple solution.
"We would advise schools and parents wishing to try supplements that they should do so, but to monitor the effects for their individual children. Such monitoring need not be elaborate but should include learning and behaviour."
The benefits of taking fish oils is thought to relate to the high Omega 3 and Omega 6 content. These fatty acids are essential to the functioning of the brain, but cannot be made by the body and have to be ingested.
Tuesday, 4 April 2006
Helping Redcar to shine at night
REDCAR's night-time economy, already boosted by the arrival of three new bars in the town centre, can now benefit from a new Government initiative that is linking the seaside town with Newcastle.
Redcar and Newcastle are among 20 towns and cities nationwide who will be getting the help of experts to accelerate the economic revival of town centres across England.
Officers from Redcar and Cleveland Council and Newcastle City Council meet for the first time along with North East Lincolnshire, representing Grimsby, under the new concept in Redcar on Friday, April 7, with nightlife high on the agenda.
Redcar Town Centre Manager John Partridge, who successfully applied to join the project, said: "It gives us the opportunity to learn from other towns and cities in the country so we can more effectively manage our night-time economy.
"Since Christmas, three new wine and food bars have opened in the East end of the town - Martha's Vineyard, Barracuda and Blue Lounge - and all of them are offering food and drink during the day as well as high quality service at night.
"We are now enjoying a better mix of premises and we need to try and market this as effectively as possible."
Local business partnerships in the 20 selected areas will receive free management, technical, and communications support from town centre experts, to establish sustainable partnerships between businesses, the public sector and the local community. Lessons learnt will be shared across all town centres to promote best practice.
Existing BIDs have already succeeded in creating safer cleaner greener town centre environments for example by; removing gum from pavements; setting up a graffiti removal hotlines; providing new street furniture; appointing a crime reduction manager; and promoting the town as a visitor destination.
The 20 town centres involved are Grimsby, Lancaster, Lowestoft, Peckham, Redcar, Stockport, Tottenham, Trafford, Wood Green, Worksop, Broxtowe, Blackpool, Newcastle, Bristol, Melton, Taunton, Havant, Colchester, Derby and Birmingham.
Redcar and Newcastle are among 20 towns and cities nationwide who will be getting the help of experts to accelerate the economic revival of town centres across England.
Officers from Redcar and Cleveland Council and Newcastle City Council meet for the first time along with North East Lincolnshire, representing Grimsby, under the new concept in Redcar on Friday, April 7, with nightlife high on the agenda.
Redcar Town Centre Manager John Partridge, who successfully applied to join the project, said: "It gives us the opportunity to learn from other towns and cities in the country so we can more effectively manage our night-time economy.
"Since Christmas, three new wine and food bars have opened in the East end of the town - Martha's Vineyard, Barracuda and Blue Lounge - and all of them are offering food and drink during the day as well as high quality service at night.
"We are now enjoying a better mix of premises and we need to try and market this as effectively as possible."
Local business partnerships in the 20 selected areas will receive free management, technical, and communications support from town centre experts, to establish sustainable partnerships between businesses, the public sector and the local community. Lessons learnt will be shared across all town centres to promote best practice.
Existing BIDs have already succeeded in creating safer cleaner greener town centre environments for example by; removing gum from pavements; setting up a graffiti removal hotlines; providing new street furniture; appointing a crime reduction manager; and promoting the town as a visitor destination.
The 20 town centres involved are Grimsby, Lancaster, Lowestoft, Peckham, Redcar, Stockport, Tottenham, Trafford, Wood Green, Worksop, Broxtowe, Blackpool, Newcastle, Bristol, Melton, Taunton, Havant, Colchester, Derby and Birmingham.
Monday, 3 April 2006
Sunny Redcar to become Dunkirk in big screen blockbuster
REDCAR and Cleveland Council is delighted with the progress of talks to turn Redcar seafront into Dunkirk 1940 for a multi-million pound blockbuster this summer.
The film's director, Joe Wright, who directed the Oscar-nominated Pride and Prejudice, has made his own trip to the town, which could be home to the 'film village' for several weeks in preparation for filming to start.
Now the production company, Working Title Films, is to draw up its detailed proposals, which would involve the closure of the Esplanade from the Regent Cinema to the boating lake and the creation of a wartime scene.
The film is titled Atonement, based on the novel by Ian McEwan. It will star Keira Knightley, with an as yet undisclosed male lead starring alongside her in a story billed as a mix of love, war and emotional truth.
Northern Film and Media, the regional screen agency created to develop the media sector in the North East, co-ordinated the talks.
NFM's Location Service Manager Gayle Mason said: "Securing this type of project takes a lot of negotiation and the talks so far have been very positive.
"There is still a lot to do to ensure that the experience of hosting filming activity in Redcar is as positive as possible for everyone involved, including local people.
"The fantastic work people have done to date will go a long way to ensuring this happens, everybody involved is so keen, so willing to help.
"Productions like this one can have a massive impact on the region in terms of economic benefit, tourism and work for local people and companies."
The Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick said: "The Council is delighted to be able to assist in this major film project, which will bring business and tourism into the Borough."
The public's main excitement is being generated by the thought of being involved - with the prospect of 1,000 extras needed for the film. But no firm details have yet been finalised.
Asbestos fear following vandalism of bungalows
Stuart Marshall a Council Emergency Planning Officer has issued the following warning:
"Bungalows due for demolition on the Lakes Estate were broken into and vandalised over the weekend. The buildings contain asbestos which was exposed during the incident, it is believed that those present in the building during the vandalism would have been exposed to asbestos fibres.
"The health impact is believed to be limited, however following advice from health organisations, Coast and Country Housing intend to publish a press statement asking for those responsible to come forward.
"This will allow Coast and Country to:
- Dispose of clothing containing asbestos in a safe manner
- Give guidance to those exposed to the asbestos
"Coast and Country may make the offer of air monitoring in those residents houses who are directly affected as a means of providing reassurance. There are believed to be no health issues to third parties such as relatives.
"Given that the estate contains a number of houses of similar construction, Coast and Country intend issuing information on asbestos to all residents, this may give rise to some concerns. All queries should be directed towards the Coast and Country 01642 471300."
"Bungalows due for demolition on the Lakes Estate were broken into and vandalised over the weekend. The buildings contain asbestos which was exposed during the incident, it is believed that those present in the building during the vandalism would have been exposed to asbestos fibres.
"The health impact is believed to be limited, however following advice from health organisations, Coast and Country Housing intend to publish a press statement asking for those responsible to come forward.
"This will allow Coast and Country to:
- Dispose of clothing containing asbestos in a safe manner
- Give guidance to those exposed to the asbestos
"Coast and Country may make the offer of air monitoring in those residents houses who are directly affected as a means of providing reassurance. There are believed to be no health issues to third parties such as relatives.
"Given that the estate contains a number of houses of similar construction, Coast and Country intend issuing information on asbestos to all residents, this may give rise to some concerns. All queries should be directed towards the Coast and Country 01642 471300."
National award for Saltburn lighting scheme
THE new lighting scheme that is illuminating Saltburn's Victorian Pier and Cliff Lift from dusk to midnight has won a national award.
Redcar and Cleveland Council's scheme, part of its Lighting Our Culture initiative, won the annual Lighting Design Awards' category for Transport Lighting.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick said: "I'm absolutely delighted the scheme has won. This scheme has been at virtually no cost to the Council taxpayer and has been very, very popular. Dozens of people have told me what an attractive job's been done."
“Really effective lighting using simple fittings,” said the judges of a scheme which uses a blue light to illuminate the track as a visual reference to the water that drives the cliff lift power mechanism. The pier buildings and beach huts are lit to emphasise their heritage.
The Council's Mayor Councillor Peter Spencer collected the award - a metal certificate - along with lighting design consultant Michael Phillips at London's Royal Lancaster Hotel in a ceremony organised by Lighting Equipment News and the Institution of Lighting Engineers.
Mr Phillips' company, Lighting Design & Consultancy, was brought in by Middlesbrough Council Design Services, appointed the scheme's lead consultant, with Bartram Walker as electrical contractors.
The scheme's £380,000 funding package included contributions from the Government's regional development agency, One North East, Tees Valley Coastal Arc, the Tees Valley Partnership, the Council, Saltburn Pier Entertainments and Friends of Saltburn Pier.
More lighting has also been installed on the lower promenade and Cat Nab car parks. Design work on a potential Phase 2 including the town's community theatre and railway station portico, is also complete, with funding and planning applications to come.
Monday, 27 March 2006
Yorkshire Day 2006
The Yorkshire Ridings Society ( at a meeting of the North Riding Group on Friday) have made new additions to the Yorkshire Day and Yorkshire Festival programmes for 2006.
Saturday 29th July 2006
2.30pm - North Riding Duck Race - Saltburn Beck
3.15pm - Flat Cap Fling - Saltburn Valley Gardens - New addition
Tuesday 1st August 2006 (Yorkshire Day)
Readings of the Yorkshire Declaration of Integrity
10.30am - Eston - Square
11.31am - Redcar - Town Clock
12 noon - Marske - The Wynd
1.15pm - Loftus - Town Centre
2.15pm - Lingdale - Tavern - New Addition
3pm - Saltburn - Pier Entrance
4pm - Guisborough - Market Cross
All proceeds from sales of white roses will once again go to Redcar Lifeboat.
Saturday 29th July 2006
2.30pm - North Riding Duck Race - Saltburn Beck
3.15pm - Flat Cap Fling - Saltburn Valley Gardens - New addition
Tuesday 1st August 2006 (Yorkshire Day)
Readings of the Yorkshire Declaration of Integrity
10.30am - Eston - Square
11.31am - Redcar - Town Clock
12 noon - Marske - The Wynd
1.15pm - Loftus - Town Centre
2.15pm - Lingdale - Tavern - New Addition
3pm - Saltburn - Pier Entrance
4pm - Guisborough - Market Cross
All proceeds from sales of white roses will once again go to Redcar Lifeboat.
Wednesday, 22 March 2006
Red laggy band mystery
Posted by Glynis:
Whilst out delivering issue No 243 of our ward newsletter, Focus, I noticed that there were lots of individual red rubber bands on the pavement.
In Brooksbank Avenue, where I first noticed them, there must have been at least 50, spread about 10 metres apart, right along the pavements on both sides of the road. They seem to be mainly discarded right up against the garden walls. There were not as many elsewhere but there were some in every street. They were even scattered on Redcar's pedestrianised High Street, when I went to Thomas Cook's to pay for my holiday in June.
Now, the only people I know who walk around the streets with red laggy bands are postmen. I would not go so far as to accuse our hard working posties of committing this offence, there may be some other organisation that uses them that also walks the streets.
It is a dreadful waste of money and whoever is responsible are risking an on the spot fine, if one of our Community Wardens spots them. Why don't they reuse them? Obviously there will be some bureaucratic excuse that makes it more economical to chuck them away but I can't for the life of me think of a good reason for such wastefulness.
Whilst out delivering issue No 243 of our ward newsletter, Focus, I noticed that there were lots of individual red rubber bands on the pavement.
In Brooksbank Avenue, where I first noticed them, there must have been at least 50, spread about 10 metres apart, right along the pavements on both sides of the road. They seem to be mainly discarded right up against the garden walls. There were not as many elsewhere but there were some in every street. They were even scattered on Redcar's pedestrianised High Street, when I went to Thomas Cook's to pay for my holiday in June.
Now, the only people I know who walk around the streets with red laggy bands are postmen. I would not go so far as to accuse our hard working posties of committing this offence, there may be some other organisation that uses them that also walks the streets.
It is a dreadful waste of money and whoever is responsible are risking an on the spot fine, if one of our Community Wardens spots them. Why don't they reuse them? Obviously there will be some bureaucratic excuse that makes it more economical to chuck them away but I can't for the life of me think of a good reason for such wastefulness.
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