One of the most successful exhibitions in the 25-year life of Redcar's Kirkleatham Museum, Titanic: Honour and Glory, completes its six month stay with a dramatic final weekend on Saturday and Sunday, December 9 and 10.
Redcar and Cleveland Council's Museums Service has been delighted at the response to the highly popular and successful national touring exhibition, which has seen over 32,000 visitors come to view the emotional story since its opening on July 1.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick said: "It has been a fantastic success and I'm delighted we can provide a fitting finale for its final weekend."
The true love story of Henry Samuel Morley and Kate Louise Philips, that inspired the blockbuster movie, will be told in a unique illustrated talk, entitled Love of the Sea, throughout the weekend, from 10.30am-5.30pm.
Visitors can also "Be Kate For The Day", with a rare opportunity to have their photograph taken wearing the 'Heart Of The Ocean Necklace', worn by actress Kate Winslet in the movie. There is a £3 fee for the photo.
There will also be a prize raffle, offering a replica of the necklace, with the lucky winner drawn before the close of the exhibition on Sunday. Tickets are £1.
Wednesday, 29 November 2006
Tuesday, 28 November 2006
Council's anger over Labour's Race Course stance
Redcar and Cleveland Council's leader Councillor Eric Empson has today condemned the Authority's Labour opposition for its "irresponsible" stance against Lord Zetland's vision for the future of Redcar Racecourse.
And Councillor Empson is calling on the Council to expel Labour from the membership of its multi-party Redcar Racecourse monitoring group.
Councillor Empson expressed his concerns as a question and a motion were delivered for debate at a meeting of the Council at Eston Town Hall on Thursday, November 30 which clearly breaks the Group's mandate to be an information-gathering forum first before making any decisions.
Councillor Empson said: "We have not decided to support a move to Dunsdale because we don't know the facts - and neither does the Labour Group leader Councillor George Dunning.
"We are behaving as all responsible politicians should behave, doing our best for the town, and until all the facts are known and we have a proper opportunity to talk to Lord Zetland, no-one knows the negotiating issues.
"However, we are being constantly bombarded by Councillor Dunning's irresponsible behaviour, which is blatant electioneering. In my view, it can have only one outcome - Redcar will be left with nothing and there will be no new course, either, because Lord Zetland will become completely disenchanted with our Council.
"So I believe it is time to act and say, We did believe the Labour group could act as a responsible opposition, listen to the facts, start a sensible debate and move forward. But they are absolutely incapable of doing that so the sooner we eject them from the monitoring group the better. And I can assure everyone that Councillor Dunning's motion will not succeed on Thursday."
Councillor Dunning's motion says: "This Council is concerned at statements made following the emergency general meeting of the Redcar Racecourse board on November 3, in particular that new board chair, Lord Zetland, is committed to future closure of the current Redcar racecourse, development of this whole greenfield site and proposed relocation of racing to a mega-course on green belt land at Dunsdale, near Guisborough."
A question from Councillor Mark Hannon to Councillor Chris Abbott, Cabinet Member for Housing and Neighbourhood Renewal, asks: "Can he explain why he is supporting the relocation of Redcar racecourse to Dunsdale when it is a successful community facility, which is improving in its racing programme, improving its financial performance and improving its diverse range of activities for the surrounding community and neighbourhoods of Redcar."
Councillor Abbott retorted: "The antics of the Labour councillors could lose us racing in Redcar forever. We lost the opportunity of top-class motor racing at South Bank some years ago because of their dogmatic, head-in-the-sand attitude.
"21st Century spectators demand first class sporting facilities. The present arrangements will not sustain racing in Redcar much longer. We must keep our nerve and remain open-minded. We have to be more ambitious for Redcar and welcome the opportunity to discuss ways to keep racing local."
And Councillor Empson is calling on the Council to expel Labour from the membership of its multi-party Redcar Racecourse monitoring group.
Councillor Empson expressed his concerns as a question and a motion were delivered for debate at a meeting of the Council at Eston Town Hall on Thursday, November 30 which clearly breaks the Group's mandate to be an information-gathering forum first before making any decisions.
Councillor Empson said: "We have not decided to support a move to Dunsdale because we don't know the facts - and neither does the Labour Group leader Councillor George Dunning.
"We are behaving as all responsible politicians should behave, doing our best for the town, and until all the facts are known and we have a proper opportunity to talk to Lord Zetland, no-one knows the negotiating issues.
"However, we are being constantly bombarded by Councillor Dunning's irresponsible behaviour, which is blatant electioneering. In my view, it can have only one outcome - Redcar will be left with nothing and there will be no new course, either, because Lord Zetland will become completely disenchanted with our Council.
"So I believe it is time to act and say, We did believe the Labour group could act as a responsible opposition, listen to the facts, start a sensible debate and move forward. But they are absolutely incapable of doing that so the sooner we eject them from the monitoring group the better. And I can assure everyone that Councillor Dunning's motion will not succeed on Thursday."
Councillor Dunning's motion says: "This Council is concerned at statements made following the emergency general meeting of the Redcar Racecourse board on November 3, in particular that new board chair, Lord Zetland, is committed to future closure of the current Redcar racecourse, development of this whole greenfield site and proposed relocation of racing to a mega-course on green belt land at Dunsdale, near Guisborough."
A question from Councillor Mark Hannon to Councillor Chris Abbott, Cabinet Member for Housing and Neighbourhood Renewal, asks: "Can he explain why he is supporting the relocation of Redcar racecourse to Dunsdale when it is a successful community facility, which is improving in its racing programme, improving its financial performance and improving its diverse range of activities for the surrounding community and neighbourhoods of Redcar."
Councillor Abbott retorted: "The antics of the Labour councillors could lose us racing in Redcar forever. We lost the opportunity of top-class motor racing at South Bank some years ago because of their dogmatic, head-in-the-sand attitude.
"21st Century spectators demand first class sporting facilities. The present arrangements will not sustain racing in Redcar much longer. We must keep our nerve and remain open-minded. We have to be more ambitious for Redcar and welcome the opportunity to discuss ways to keep racing local."
Enchanted wood destroyed by vandals
An enchanted wood which was created in Kirkleatham Woods in Redcar, by Cleveland Fire Brigade’s Prince’s Trust team has been wrecked by vandals just hours after it was opened.
The Brigade’s Princes Trust team has been working hard for 5 weeks with local schools, colleges and a local sculptor to create an enchanted wood in Kirkleatham Woods, which is managed by Redcar and Cleveland Council's countryside section, for the public to enjoy. The grand opening took place on Friday 24 November only to be vandalised later that evening.
The team had raised money through various fundraising activities including a talent contest and raffle and they were also given a grant from the National Lottery. The total cost to create the area was over £4000.
Metal posts which guided you through the specially created area have been ripped out from the concrete, which kept them in place, some of which have been stolen. Animals which were specially made have also been ripped away and stolen as well as graffiti on the benches which were custom made.
Karen Duncan, Prince’s Trust Team Leader said: “The team and I are devastated that vandals have come along and destroyed all the hard work we have put in over the past few weeks. This was meant to be a place for people to enjoy and I am disgusted that anyone would want to come along and wreck it.
“The animals that were specially created by youths at a local engagement programme called Fairbridge been stolen, we have found some of the metal posts that guide you through the area so we will be able to put them back in place. There was also empty beer cans and cider bottles all over as well as other litter and graffiti.
“We have reported this act of vandalism to Cleveland Police and are now looking at the cost of restoring the enchanted wood.”
A police spokeswoman confirmed they had received a report of vandalism in Kirkleatham Woods, she said: “We are keen for anyone with information to come forward and tell us who was responsible for the damage caused. This new community facility had been created after a lot of hard work by local children and young people and it’s devastating to see it ruined so soon after opening. Anyone with information should contact Cleveland police on 01642 326326 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111”
Redcar and Cleveland Council's Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs Councillor Graham Jeffery said: "I'm absolutely disgusted - this is a crime against the people who use the wood and the people who have worked hard to create it. The Police take this type of crime very seriously and have a number of ongoing operations to tackle this problem throughout the Borough."
The Brigade’s Princes Trust team has been working hard for 5 weeks with local schools, colleges and a local sculptor to create an enchanted wood in Kirkleatham Woods, which is managed by Redcar and Cleveland Council's countryside section, for the public to enjoy. The grand opening took place on Friday 24 November only to be vandalised later that evening.
The team had raised money through various fundraising activities including a talent contest and raffle and they were also given a grant from the National Lottery. The total cost to create the area was over £4000.
Metal posts which guided you through the specially created area have been ripped out from the concrete, which kept them in place, some of which have been stolen. Animals which were specially made have also been ripped away and stolen as well as graffiti on the benches which were custom made.
Karen Duncan, Prince’s Trust Team Leader said: “The team and I are devastated that vandals have come along and destroyed all the hard work we have put in over the past few weeks. This was meant to be a place for people to enjoy and I am disgusted that anyone would want to come along and wreck it.
“The animals that were specially created by youths at a local engagement programme called Fairbridge been stolen, we have found some of the metal posts that guide you through the area so we will be able to put them back in place. There was also empty beer cans and cider bottles all over as well as other litter and graffiti.
“We have reported this act of vandalism to Cleveland Police and are now looking at the cost of restoring the enchanted wood.”
A police spokeswoman confirmed they had received a report of vandalism in Kirkleatham Woods, she said: “We are keen for anyone with information to come forward and tell us who was responsible for the damage caused. This new community facility had been created after a lot of hard work by local children and young people and it’s devastating to see it ruined so soon after opening. Anyone with information should contact Cleveland police on 01642 326326 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111”
Redcar and Cleveland Council's Cabinet Member for Rural Affairs Councillor Graham Jeffery said: "I'm absolutely disgusted - this is a crime against the people who use the wood and the people who have worked hard to create it. The Police take this type of crime very seriously and have a number of ongoing operations to tackle this problem throughout the Borough."
Thursday, 23 November 2006
Redcar Police District set for major change
Cleveland Police Officers and staff have begun operations from a brand new building in the Borough of Redcar and Cleveland designed for 21st Century policing.
Old stations at Redcar and South Bank will eventually close with the switch to the new district headquarters - a purpose-built complex on Kirkleatham Business Park.
The move is part of a £38million project that will also include a major police headquarters at Middlesbrough. Work there is in the final stages.
The Business Park development will replace Redcar’s 24-hour front desk service but the new HQ has much improved facilities for the public. A privacy screen will ensure that people wanting to discuss matters in private at the front desk will not be overheard.
Other facilities on the site include six cells, monitored by CCTV for safety and security reasons; a lecture theatre for training and even a dedicated major incident suite.
District Commander Supt Ian Richards said: “We have facilities here that in the past we could only dream about. This building allows us to bring virtually everybody under one roof.
“The latest technology has been incorporated in the design which gives us among many other things a video link room and electronic pads in the custody suite which can be signed by prisoners doing away with a lot of paper.”
He added: “The buildings in South Bank and Redcar that are to close have served us well in the past, but this is the face of the future and new Town Police Offices will ensure we retain a police presence in our communities.””
From Monday December 11th a new South Bank Office, on Normanby Road at the junction with Hampden Street, will open to the public and from December 18 the new Redcar Town Office, next to the old police station will also open.
Both these buildings will continue to provide a front desk service to the public. The opening times for these buildings will be published in due course.
The postal addresses for the new buildings are as follows:-
1. Redcar & Cleveland HQ
Troisdorf Way
Kirkleatham Business Park
REDCAR
Yorkshire
TS10 5AP
2. Redcar Town Office
Lord Street
REDCAR
Yorkshire
TS10 3JP
3. South Bank Town Office
2 Hampden Street
South Bank
MIDDLESBROUGH
Yorkshire
TS6 6PJ
Old stations at Redcar and South Bank will eventually close with the switch to the new district headquarters - a purpose-built complex on Kirkleatham Business Park.
The move is part of a £38million project that will also include a major police headquarters at Middlesbrough. Work there is in the final stages.
The Business Park development will replace Redcar’s 24-hour front desk service but the new HQ has much improved facilities for the public. A privacy screen will ensure that people wanting to discuss matters in private at the front desk will not be overheard.
Other facilities on the site include six cells, monitored by CCTV for safety and security reasons; a lecture theatre for training and even a dedicated major incident suite.
District Commander Supt Ian Richards said: “We have facilities here that in the past we could only dream about. This building allows us to bring virtually everybody under one roof.
“The latest technology has been incorporated in the design which gives us among many other things a video link room and electronic pads in the custody suite which can be signed by prisoners doing away with a lot of paper.”
He added: “The buildings in South Bank and Redcar that are to close have served us well in the past, but this is the face of the future and new Town Police Offices will ensure we retain a police presence in our communities.””
From Monday December 11th a new South Bank Office, on Normanby Road at the junction with Hampden Street, will open to the public and from December 18 the new Redcar Town Office, next to the old police station will also open.
Both these buildings will continue to provide a front desk service to the public. The opening times for these buildings will be published in due course.
The postal addresses for the new buildings are as follows:-
1. Redcar & Cleveland HQ
Troisdorf Way
Kirkleatham Business Park
REDCAR
Yorkshire
TS10 5AP
2. Redcar Town Office
Lord Street
REDCAR
Yorkshire
TS10 3JP
3. South Bank Town Office
2 Hampden Street
South Bank
MIDDLESBROUGH
Yorkshire
TS6 6PJ
Tuesday, 21 November 2006
Coalition ensures safe journeys to school
Redcar and Cleveland Council has reassessed the walk to school for some children attending Freebrough Specialist Engineering College and they will now have transport provided when their new school opens in the New Year.
The decision means that children from Carlin How and Skinningrove will benefit from home to school transport to Freebrough Specialist Engineering College when the doors of its new building open to students at Brotton on the first day of the new term in January.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Education Councillor Steve Kay said: "We are now in a position to inform parents that we can offer free home to school transport for more children going to Freebrough in January."
The decision follows a review of the walking route to school after the Council had ruled children living in Carlin How and Skinningrove could not claim free school travel.
Councillor Kay explained: "I have had representations from Brotton ward councillors Val Miller and Kay Walker and Loftus ward councillor Dave Fitzpatrick, who all asked for the walking route to be reviewed on safety grounds.
"Following our reassessment we can make home to school transport available to the children concerned. We are now in the process of writing to parents to explain the decision and hope that pupils can all look forward to the excitement of attending the new school in a few weeks."
The decision means that children from Carlin How and Skinningrove will benefit from home to school transport to Freebrough Specialist Engineering College when the doors of its new building open to students at Brotton on the first day of the new term in January.
The Council's Cabinet Member for Education Councillor Steve Kay said: "We are now in a position to inform parents that we can offer free home to school transport for more children going to Freebrough in January."
The decision follows a review of the walking route to school after the Council had ruled children living in Carlin How and Skinningrove could not claim free school travel.
Councillor Kay explained: "I have had representations from Brotton ward councillors Val Miller and Kay Walker and Loftus ward councillor Dave Fitzpatrick, who all asked for the walking route to be reviewed on safety grounds.
"Following our reassessment we can make home to school transport available to the children concerned. We are now in the process of writing to parents to explain the decision and hope that pupils can all look forward to the excitement of attending the new school in a few weeks."
Friday, 17 November 2006
Grangetown wins the Big Lottery
Grangetown Primary School has issued heartfelt thanks to thousands of local residents who helped it win a £50,000 Big Lottery Fund prize to build a new playground.
Headteacher Carl Faulkner said: "We could not have won without the support of so many people. We're so grateful for their backing. It's great to have won the Lottery!
"We're hoping to start building work just after Christmas and hopefully the whole project will be ready for the summer term, with a formal opening on our Family Learning Day, Friday, June 29.
"To win so soon after receiving our excellent Ofsted report is a double celebration for the school. The money is the perfect reward for the efforts of our staff, pupils and the local community in making the school the success it is today."
The school went head-to-head with a Tyneside environmental project in a day-long public text vote on Wednesday, before an anxious wait until the announcement on Tyne Tees TV's North East Tonight news programme last night (Thursday, November 16).
Now the school plans to give its 70-year-old playground a facelift with the introduction of new sports facilities, shelters, displays and an innovative learning environment. Plans are in place to make some of the facilities open to the local community.
Redcar and Cleveland Council's Cabinet Member for Education Councillor Steve Kay said: “I'm delighted that the school has won. The planned playground improvements will deliver a range of new facilities for dozens of schoolchildren and local community groups.”
Headteacher Carl Faulkner said: "We could not have won without the support of so many people. We're so grateful for their backing. It's great to have won the Lottery!
"We're hoping to start building work just after Christmas and hopefully the whole project will be ready for the summer term, with a formal opening on our Family Learning Day, Friday, June 29.
"To win so soon after receiving our excellent Ofsted report is a double celebration for the school. The money is the perfect reward for the efforts of our staff, pupils and the local community in making the school the success it is today."
The school went head-to-head with a Tyneside environmental project in a day-long public text vote on Wednesday, before an anxious wait until the announcement on Tyne Tees TV's North East Tonight news programme last night (Thursday, November 16).
Now the school plans to give its 70-year-old playground a facelift with the introduction of new sports facilities, shelters, displays and an innovative learning environment. Plans are in place to make some of the facilities open to the local community.
Redcar and Cleveland Council's Cabinet Member for Education Councillor Steve Kay said: “I'm delighted that the school has won. The planned playground improvements will deliver a range of new facilities for dozens of schoolchildren and local community groups.”
South Bank Drop In
People living in South Bank can find out more about the Renewal Plan and how it affects them at a drop in session.
It has been organised by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council in partnership with South Bank Tomorrow and will take place on Monday November 20, at Golden Boy Green on Normanby Road in South Bank from 1pm until 8pm.
The community has been and still is involved in the consultation process and visitors will be able to view a series of display panels explaining what the Renewal Plan is, the area affected by the plan, what the current state of play is regarding house acquisition and relocation assistance available to residents, as well as future plans for the area.
The event will be held in the main hall and a meeting room is available for any residents who want to hold private discussions.
The Cabinet Member for Housing and Neighbourhood Renewal, Councillor Chris Abbott, said: "This event reinforces the Council's commitment to the local community. It shows that we are working with residents to give them a better quality of life in a better environment."
The Chairman of the South Bank Housing Strategy Steering Group, South Bank ward Councillor Ian Jeffrey, said: "This is a really good opportunity for people to find out more about the renewal plan and how it affects them."
Interpreters will be at the event, which will also be attended by representatives from the Council's waste and recycling department.
It has been organised by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council in partnership with South Bank Tomorrow and will take place on Monday November 20, at Golden Boy Green on Normanby Road in South Bank from 1pm until 8pm.
The community has been and still is involved in the consultation process and visitors will be able to view a series of display panels explaining what the Renewal Plan is, the area affected by the plan, what the current state of play is regarding house acquisition and relocation assistance available to residents, as well as future plans for the area.
The event will be held in the main hall and a meeting room is available for any residents who want to hold private discussions.
The Cabinet Member for Housing and Neighbourhood Renewal, Councillor Chris Abbott, said: "This event reinforces the Council's commitment to the local community. It shows that we are working with residents to give them a better quality of life in a better environment."
The Chairman of the South Bank Housing Strategy Steering Group, South Bank ward Councillor Ian Jeffrey, said: "This is a really good opportunity for people to find out more about the renewal plan and how it affects them."
Interpreters will be at the event, which will also be attended by representatives from the Council's waste and recycling department.
Wednesday, 15 November 2006
Libraries hosting help and advice on keeping warm this winter
Libraries across Redcar and Cleveland are hosting information sessions to offer help and advice for keeping warm this winter.
The Borough's Warm and Well initiative can undertake benefit checks and home energy efficiency surveys, with the chance of accessing grants for energy efficiency measures and discount insulation schemes.
We want to ensure that people who might struggle with their heating bills this winter get all the help and advice available to help them cope.
Library dates and times are:
Wednesday, November 22 - Marske, 12.30pm-2pm.
Thursday, November 23 - Loftus, 2pm-5pm.
Friday, November 24 - Saltburn, 2pm–4pm.
Thursday, December 7 - Brotton, 1.30pm–4pm.
Tuesday, December 12 - Grangetown, 10am–1pm.
Friday, December 15 - Guisborough, 10am–1pm.
Monday, December 18 - South Bank, 10am–1pm.
Wednesday, December 20 - Redcar Central, 10am–1pm.
For more information about the Warm and Well scheme, call 01642 777976 or e-mail, warmandwell@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk.
The Borough's Warm and Well initiative can undertake benefit checks and home energy efficiency surveys, with the chance of accessing grants for energy efficiency measures and discount insulation schemes.
We want to ensure that people who might struggle with their heating bills this winter get all the help and advice available to help them cope.
Library dates and times are:
Wednesday, November 22 - Marske, 12.30pm-2pm.
Thursday, November 23 - Loftus, 2pm-5pm.
Friday, November 24 - Saltburn, 2pm–4pm.
Thursday, December 7 - Brotton, 1.30pm–4pm.
Tuesday, December 12 - Grangetown, 10am–1pm.
Friday, December 15 - Guisborough, 10am–1pm.
Monday, December 18 - South Bank, 10am–1pm.
Wednesday, December 20 - Redcar Central, 10am–1pm.
For more information about the Warm and Well scheme, call 01642 777976 or e-mail, warmandwell@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk.
Grangetown Primary School wants your support today
Grangetown Primary School wants your support today (wed) in a text vote to win a £50,000 Big Lottery Fund prize to give its 70-year-old playground a facelift with the introduction of new sports facilities, shelters, displays and an innovative learning environment.
The school is one of two organisations shortlisted for the cash prize as part of the Big Lottery Fund?s People?s Millions contest to be shown as part of Wednesday's Tyne Tees news bulletin from 6pm.
Voting opens at 9am and closes at midnight.
How to vote: Text TTTV 2 to 63330 or phone 0870 243 4702.
The school is one of two organisations shortlisted for the cash prize as part of the Big Lottery Fund?s People?s Millions contest to be shown as part of Wednesday's Tyne Tees news bulletin from 6pm.
Voting opens at 9am and closes at midnight.
How to vote: Text TTTV 2 to 63330 or phone 0870 243 4702.
Monday, 13 November 2006
Redcar Town Clock restoration is complete
The time is right for Redcar's Town Clock to come under the spotlight when a £230,000 refurbishment of the 93-year-old building is officially unveiled on Thursday, November 16.
Children from the town's primary and secondary schools will tell the story of the King Edward VII Memorial Clock in a performance of music and dance in the High Street, starting at 4pm.
Then Redcar and Cleveland Council's Mayor Councillor Mary Ovens and the chairman of the Friends of Redcar Town Clock Vera Robinson MBE will switch on the lights at around 5pm to illuminate the clock from dusk to dawn.
The town's most famous landmark now has a fully-restored clock tower and clock mechanism as well as the return of its chimes with the fitting of a bell, discovered in store at Redcar's Kirkleatham Museum.
Panels, created by children from four primary schools - Coatham, Ings Farm, Zetland and Wheatlands - have told the history of the clock tower, erected by public subscription in 1913 as weeks of specialist work has been carried out. The panels will now form a mobile exhibition, touring libraries.
A leaflet, telling the clock's history and the project's story, is now being produced, along with interpretative panels to be erected in two of the tower's four arches.
The involvement of children in the work was a key element of levering the majority of funding, £148,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, while the Northern Rock Foundation supplied £20,000 with the Council providing a total of £40,000 after matching the Friends' £10,000 starter from its public appeal three years ago.
The Mayor said: "‘It is wonderful we have been able to restore this lovely building which has stood at the heart of the town for so many years.
"The clock is Redcar’s most famous landmark and I know the town’s residents will be delighted it has been enhanced and conserved for many years to come."
The Friends' chairman Vera Robinson said: "When the Friends of Redcar Town Clock undertook to save this listed building I had no idea of the tremendous support we would get from the townspeople.
"Now, four years after the public appeal was launched, the restoration is complete, signalling that Redcar people do indeed care about their heritage and the clock’s future is now secure."
Children from the town's primary and secondary schools will tell the story of the King Edward VII Memorial Clock in a performance of music and dance in the High Street, starting at 4pm.
Then Redcar and Cleveland Council's Mayor Councillor Mary Ovens and the chairman of the Friends of Redcar Town Clock Vera Robinson MBE will switch on the lights at around 5pm to illuminate the clock from dusk to dawn.
The town's most famous landmark now has a fully-restored clock tower and clock mechanism as well as the return of its chimes with the fitting of a bell, discovered in store at Redcar's Kirkleatham Museum.
Panels, created by children from four primary schools - Coatham, Ings Farm, Zetland and Wheatlands - have told the history of the clock tower, erected by public subscription in 1913 as weeks of specialist work has been carried out. The panels will now form a mobile exhibition, touring libraries.
A leaflet, telling the clock's history and the project's story, is now being produced, along with interpretative panels to be erected in two of the tower's four arches.
The involvement of children in the work was a key element of levering the majority of funding, £148,500 from the Heritage Lottery Fund, while the Northern Rock Foundation supplied £20,000 with the Council providing a total of £40,000 after matching the Friends' £10,000 starter from its public appeal three years ago.
The Mayor said: "‘It is wonderful we have been able to restore this lovely building which has stood at the heart of the town for so many years.
"The clock is Redcar’s most famous landmark and I know the town’s residents will be delighted it has been enhanced and conserved for many years to come."
The Friends' chairman Vera Robinson said: "When the Friends of Redcar Town Clock undertook to save this listed building I had no idea of the tremendous support we would get from the townspeople.
"Now, four years after the public appeal was launched, the restoration is complete, signalling that Redcar people do indeed care about their heritage and the clock’s future is now secure."
Monday, 6 November 2006
Winning the fight against flytipping
Residents of Redcar and Cleveland have given their enthusiastic backing to a Borough-wide initiative aimed at winning the war against flytipping.
The Council’s Clean and Green team launched its BOYD – Bring Out Your Dross - scheme in April, covering the Borough’s 22 wards on a rolling programme.
With one ward to go - Coatham, starting on Monday, November 13 - staff has visited 10,444 homes, collecting a total of 247.95 tonnes of rubbish and unwanted items, including 60 gas bottles, 83 batteries, 190 tyres, 253 fridges and 399 television sets.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Environmental Improvement Councillor Bob Stanway said: “The success of the BOYD scheme and our two civic amenities has helped to bring down the reports of flytipping.
“Unfortunately those who persist in flytipping are costing the Council Tax payers of the Borough huge expense.
“But, under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005, we have the power to investigate flytipping and, where identities can be proved, we will prosecute."
In the 12 months between April 2005 and March this year, the Council received 4,929 reports of flytipping. In the following six months, from April to September, 2,223 incidents of flytipping were reported – leading to a predicted reduction in flytipping by up to 500 less incidents this year.
The Council faces the dilemma of sorting dumped rubbish from flytipping – a dumped black bag at the side of the road is flytipping, a dumped black bag in an alley is classed as waste collection.
Councillor Stanway said: “I would encourage residents of the Borough to take pride in the Clean and Green aspects of the environment and make more use of the facilities we already provide.
"Contrary to many reports flytipping is down in this Borough because of the pro-active approach we now take."
The Council’s Clean and Green team launched its BOYD – Bring Out Your Dross - scheme in April, covering the Borough’s 22 wards on a rolling programme.
With one ward to go - Coatham, starting on Monday, November 13 - staff has visited 10,444 homes, collecting a total of 247.95 tonnes of rubbish and unwanted items, including 60 gas bottles, 83 batteries, 190 tyres, 253 fridges and 399 television sets.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Environmental Improvement Councillor Bob Stanway said: “The success of the BOYD scheme and our two civic amenities has helped to bring down the reports of flytipping.
“Unfortunately those who persist in flytipping are costing the Council Tax payers of the Borough huge expense.
“But, under the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005, we have the power to investigate flytipping and, where identities can be proved, we will prosecute."
In the 12 months between April 2005 and March this year, the Council received 4,929 reports of flytipping. In the following six months, from April to September, 2,223 incidents of flytipping were reported – leading to a predicted reduction in flytipping by up to 500 less incidents this year.
The Council faces the dilemma of sorting dumped rubbish from flytipping – a dumped black bag at the side of the road is flytipping, a dumped black bag in an alley is classed as waste collection.
Councillor Stanway said: “I would encourage residents of the Borough to take pride in the Clean and Green aspects of the environment and make more use of the facilities we already provide.
"Contrary to many reports flytipping is down in this Borough because of the pro-active approach we now take."
Who's got the Redcar X-Factor?
Young people across the Borough of Redcar and Cleveland are being urged to bring their own cheerleaders to auditions that offer them the chance to show off their talents when Redcar's Christmas lights are switched on next month.
Redcar and Cleveland Council's Mayor Councillor Mary Ovens will be chairman of the judging panel in the church hall at Christ Church, Coatham on Friday, November 10 and Saturday, November 11, in X-Factor style auditions, when entries are invited to bring along family and friends for support.
Councillor Ovens said: "It's going to be a busy couple of days and I'm really looking forward to it, maybe I'll turn into the new Sharon Osbourne!"
There will be rehearsals for Key Stage 4 pupils and college and university students on Friday from 5pm-7pm, then a talent show, starting at 7.30pm.
On Saturday, the day starts with rehearsals for Key Stage 2 students, from noon-2pm, then their talent show from 2pm-4pm, before rehearsals start for Key Stage 3 students, from 5pm-7pm, then their talent show, from 7.30pm-9.30pm.
The winners from each age group will be part of the lights switch-on on Sunday, December 3, when they perform on the High Street stage, starting at 2pm.
Redcar and Cleveland Council's Mayor Councillor Mary Ovens will be chairman of the judging panel in the church hall at Christ Church, Coatham on Friday, November 10 and Saturday, November 11, in X-Factor style auditions, when entries are invited to bring along family and friends for support.
Councillor Ovens said: "It's going to be a busy couple of days and I'm really looking forward to it, maybe I'll turn into the new Sharon Osbourne!"
There will be rehearsals for Key Stage 4 pupils and college and university students on Friday from 5pm-7pm, then a talent show, starting at 7.30pm.
On Saturday, the day starts with rehearsals for Key Stage 2 students, from noon-2pm, then their talent show from 2pm-4pm, before rehearsals start for Key Stage 3 students, from 5pm-7pm, then their talent show, from 7.30pm-9.30pm.
The winners from each age group will be part of the lights switch-on on Sunday, December 3, when they perform on the High Street stage, starting at 2pm.
Tuesday, 31 October 2006
Shopmobility returns to Redcar
Redcar and Cleveland Council has entered into a new partnership with a voluntary organisation run by local disabled people to ensure Redcar Shopmobility is back in business for users in time for Christmas shopping.
The Redcar and Cleveland Real Opportunity Centre (ROC) has secured Council funding for the next 18 months to revive the service, formerly run by the Redcar and Cleveland Disability Access Group (DAG), which was forced to close its doors on the Esplanade in September due to lack of funds.
The current Shopmobility members have all been notified about the good news and recruitment for staff is now underway.
The Council's Cabinet Chairman Councillor Eric Empson said: "Council officers and ROC have pulled out all the stops to get Shopmobility up and running before Christmas.
"As well as financial support, we are also helping with some equipment and building maintenance and repairs. Council departments are pitching in to get things moving on a safe and sound basis."
ROC Manager Jane Reast explained: "This is a busy and challenging time for ROC and our first priority is to get the doors open again.
"The Council has recognised the value of voluntary sector work and the public and economic benefit this partnership can bring. It has listened to local people and responded very positively. DAG has done a great job and given us a platform so we can develop."
ROC's other work will include a day resource newsletter and organising the Disabled People's Partnership Board, which will complement and enhance the Information and Shopmobility service.
The Redcar and Cleveland Real Opportunity Centre (ROC) has secured Council funding for the next 18 months to revive the service, formerly run by the Redcar and Cleveland Disability Access Group (DAG), which was forced to close its doors on the Esplanade in September due to lack of funds.
The current Shopmobility members have all been notified about the good news and recruitment for staff is now underway.
The Council's Cabinet Chairman Councillor Eric Empson said: "Council officers and ROC have pulled out all the stops to get Shopmobility up and running before Christmas.
"As well as financial support, we are also helping with some equipment and building maintenance and repairs. Council departments are pitching in to get things moving on a safe and sound basis."
ROC Manager Jane Reast explained: "This is a busy and challenging time for ROC and our first priority is to get the doors open again.
"The Council has recognised the value of voluntary sector work and the public and economic benefit this partnership can bring. It has listened to local people and responded very positively. DAG has done a great job and given us a platform so we can develop."
ROC's other work will include a day resource newsletter and organising the Disabled People's Partnership Board, which will complement and enhance the Information and Shopmobility service.
Monday, 30 October 2006
Redcar & Cleveland Compact
Guidelines for a new method of working, which can cover local public bodies and the voluntary and community sector in Redcar and Cleveland, will be outlined by a national expert at an awareness-raising day on Wednesday, November 1.
Mark Blake, the project manager for the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, will address the meeting at Belmont House, Guisborough, organised by Redcar and Cleveland Council, which is applying compact principles across the Authority.
The Redcar and Cleveland Compact is an overarching agreement between 28 local public bodies and approximately 450 voluntary and community sector organisations which sets out working arrangements and what they can expect from each other.
The Council's Compact Champion, Councillor Chris Abbott, said: "We are fully committed to embedding the Compact principles into Council policy and procedures."
For more information, contact the Council's Business Planning and Development Officer Tracy Calvert on 01642 444241 or email tracy_calvert@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk
Mark Blake, the project manager for the National Council for Voluntary Organisations, will address the meeting at Belmont House, Guisborough, organised by Redcar and Cleveland Council, which is applying compact principles across the Authority.
The Redcar and Cleveland Compact is an overarching agreement between 28 local public bodies and approximately 450 voluntary and community sector organisations which sets out working arrangements and what they can expect from each other.
The Council's Compact Champion, Councillor Chris Abbott, said: "We are fully committed to embedding the Compact principles into Council policy and procedures."
For more information, contact the Council's Business Planning and Development Officer Tracy Calvert on 01642 444241 or email tracy_calvert@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk
Fireworks Night on the Stray
Redcar's Fireworks Night will switch to The Stray for a sparkling display on Sunday, November 5, starting at 6.30pm.
The 30-minute extravaganza, between Redcar and Marske, will mean the Coast Road will be closed to traffic from the Zetland Park roundabout at Redcar to the roundabout at Marske from around 5pm to at least 30 minutes afterwards.
Organisers will be setting off the fireworks from the grassed area near the car park close to the Redcar Stray toilets, firing over the sea.
Huge new effects are planned, with fireworks rising to 1,800 feet and spraying as wide as 1,200 feet, building to a spectacular finale.
Spectators will be guided to two viewing areas either side of the firing zone, accessed from either Redcar or Marske.
Three 26-seater buses start a free shuttle service from the Majuba Road car park at 5pm until 6.15pm, with one free bus operating during the same times from the car park opposite Marske library. Return journeys will start at 7.15pm until 8pm.
Parking will be available in the usual town centre car parks.
Friday, 27 October 2006
Three new schools are first class
More than 2,000 children in Redcar and Cleveland will mark the start of an educational era next week when three brand new schools simultaneously open their doors.
Pupils at Bydales Specialist Technology School in Marske, Gillbrook College in South Bank and Sacred Heart RC Specialist Science College in Redcar, will return from their half term holiday on Thursday, 2 November to study in new state-of-the-art buildings as part of a £155million project.
The new schools are the latest of five new schools to be built in Redcar and Cleveland in just 18 months thanks to a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract. In April 2006, 600 pupils at South Bank Community Primary and St Benedict’s RC Primary School moved into new buildings as part of the project, co-ordinated by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.
Councillor Steve Kay, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “Next week is a momentous week for Redcar and Cleveland and I am delighted to see three more first rate schools being made available to more than 2,000 pupils. The creation of five new schools in such a short space of time is testament to the commitment of both the council and local schools to continue to improve the education of our children and young people.”
Built by Carillion Regional Building and designed by RyderHKS architects, the three new schools each boast the most up-to-date learning facilities. The new buildings each include auditoriums and drama suites with hi-tech sound and lighting equipment, e-learning rooms to seat up to 60 pupils, music suites complete with recording studios and sports facilities installed to Sport England standards. A viewing platform has also been created at Bydales School to enable pupils to map ships and study birds, gaining educational benefit from the school’s coastal location.
All three schools also use the latest biometric finger scanning technology to support their school meals services. Each mealtime, pupils will use finger scanning technology to enable them to claim a school meal. School meals are pre-paid at the start of a day, week or term, minimising the need for pupils to carry money to school.
Headteacher of Bydales Specialist Technology College Tony Hobbs said: “We are all extremely excited to be moving into such a modern building with first rate resources that will undoubtedly be an excellent learning environment for our students.”
Pupils from all three schools have played a central part in finalising the layout and designs of their new buildings. Earlier this year, students attended a council-run design workshop to give their views on landscape proposals, furniture designs, room layouts and test out some of the information technology (IT) and drama equipment.
Headteacher of Sacred Heart RC Specialist Science College Pat Hibbert said: “Our new situation will enable us to deliver the curriculum more effectively in a building which we can enjoy. We very much look forward to the new half term.”
The opening of the schools will come just two weeks after Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council was given the green light to increase education for 16-19-year-olds with the creation of over 500 places at Eston Park School, Gillbrook College and Nunthorpe from September, 2008.
Headteacher of Gillbrook College John Anthony added: “As we move into a new successful future for Gillbrook College, our fantastic new building represents a resource that will enable us to continue to develop an excellent learning culture in which our students can excel and achieve their personal goals. The recent confirmation of our post-16 status and the imminent construction of the collaborative post-16 centre will offer increased and accessible educational choice to students on their doorstep.”
The students will be spending their first week being inducted into a range of new processes and facilities within the building. Formal openings of the building will take place at a later date.
Pupils at Bydales Specialist Technology School in Marske, Gillbrook College in South Bank and Sacred Heart RC Specialist Science College in Redcar, will return from their half term holiday on Thursday, 2 November to study in new state-of-the-art buildings as part of a £155million project.
The new schools are the latest of five new schools to be built in Redcar and Cleveland in just 18 months thanks to a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract. In April 2006, 600 pupils at South Bank Community Primary and St Benedict’s RC Primary School moved into new buildings as part of the project, co-ordinated by Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.
Councillor Steve Kay, Cabinet Member for Education, said: “Next week is a momentous week for Redcar and Cleveland and I am delighted to see three more first rate schools being made available to more than 2,000 pupils. The creation of five new schools in such a short space of time is testament to the commitment of both the council and local schools to continue to improve the education of our children and young people.”
Built by Carillion Regional Building and designed by RyderHKS architects, the three new schools each boast the most up-to-date learning facilities. The new buildings each include auditoriums and drama suites with hi-tech sound and lighting equipment, e-learning rooms to seat up to 60 pupils, music suites complete with recording studios and sports facilities installed to Sport England standards. A viewing platform has also been created at Bydales School to enable pupils to map ships and study birds, gaining educational benefit from the school’s coastal location.
All three schools also use the latest biometric finger scanning technology to support their school meals services. Each mealtime, pupils will use finger scanning technology to enable them to claim a school meal. School meals are pre-paid at the start of a day, week or term, minimising the need for pupils to carry money to school.
Headteacher of Bydales Specialist Technology College Tony Hobbs said: “We are all extremely excited to be moving into such a modern building with first rate resources that will undoubtedly be an excellent learning environment for our students.”
Pupils from all three schools have played a central part in finalising the layout and designs of their new buildings. Earlier this year, students attended a council-run design workshop to give their views on landscape proposals, furniture designs, room layouts and test out some of the information technology (IT) and drama equipment.
Headteacher of Sacred Heart RC Specialist Science College Pat Hibbert said: “Our new situation will enable us to deliver the curriculum more effectively in a building which we can enjoy. We very much look forward to the new half term.”
The opening of the schools will come just two weeks after Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council was given the green light to increase education for 16-19-year-olds with the creation of over 500 places at Eston Park School, Gillbrook College and Nunthorpe from September, 2008.
Headteacher of Gillbrook College John Anthony added: “As we move into a new successful future for Gillbrook College, our fantastic new building represents a resource that will enable us to continue to develop an excellent learning culture in which our students can excel and achieve their personal goals. The recent confirmation of our post-16 status and the imminent construction of the collaborative post-16 centre will offer increased and accessible educational choice to students on their doorstep.”
The students will be spending their first week being inducted into a range of new processes and facilities within the building. Formal openings of the building will take place at a later date.
Wednesday, 25 October 2006
Council calls for urgent talks with Racecourse Board of Directors
Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick, has put forward a Council motion to call for the Board of Directors of Redcar Racecourse to enter into urgent private discussions with representatives of the Council to ensure that racing in Redcar continues.
The request has been made in response to recent media reports which suggest that the future of Redcar Racecourse may be under threat.
Cllr Dave Fitzpatrick, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, said: “As a Council, we have not received any direct communication from the Racecourse regarding any future plans.
“This Council is concerned at press reports that there may be a threat to the continuation of racing at Redcar. This Councils calls on the Board of Directors of the racecourse to enter into urgent private discussions with representatives of the Council to ensure that racing in Redcar continues.
“Racing is so important to Redcar; the Racecourse has been a leading attraction to Redcar since 1875 - it is part of our town, our history, our identity, and we feel, an essential part of our future - and we will do everything in our power to ensure that this important attraction and the opportunities it represents for the future of Redcar are not threatened.”
The Mayor has called a special Council meeting of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council on Thursday 2 November at 2pm at the Town Hall, Eston, to approve the motion and discuss the future of Redcar Racecourse before the Extraordinary General Meeting of Redcar Racecourse shareholders on 3 November.
The request has been made in response to recent media reports which suggest that the future of Redcar Racecourse may be under threat.
Cllr Dave Fitzpatrick, Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, said: “As a Council, we have not received any direct communication from the Racecourse regarding any future plans.
“This Council is concerned at press reports that there may be a threat to the continuation of racing at Redcar. This Councils calls on the Board of Directors of the racecourse to enter into urgent private discussions with representatives of the Council to ensure that racing in Redcar continues.
“Racing is so important to Redcar; the Racecourse has been a leading attraction to Redcar since 1875 - it is part of our town, our history, our identity, and we feel, an essential part of our future - and we will do everything in our power to ensure that this important attraction and the opportunities it represents for the future of Redcar are not threatened.”
The Mayor has called a special Council meeting of Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council on Thursday 2 November at 2pm at the Town Hall, Eston, to approve the motion and discuss the future of Redcar Racecourse before the Extraordinary General Meeting of Redcar Racecourse shareholders on 3 November.
New Chairman of the Yorkshire Ridings Society
Chris is the new Chairman of the Yorkshire Ridings Society.
Members of the Society's Executive Committee, met last night in the Black Swan, York, to select a replacement for one of the Society's founder members, Roland (Colin) Holt of Fenwick, near Doncaster, who died in April.
Chris said: "It is a real honour to follow Colin Holt as Chairman of the Ridings Society. It was a sad blow when we lost Colin In April but the Society carries on with the same enthusiasm that has kept it going for more than 30 years.
"I feel proud that members have placed their trust in me as the person to continue the good work that Colin started. Some of these members have travelled to York, from all parts of the County, six or eight times year, in all weathers, to meetings and have kept the Society alive and thriving since 1974."
Roger Sewell, of Goole, who last year completed a charity walk around the boundary of real Yorkshire, is the new Vice Chairman.
The Yorkshire Ridings Society campaigns for recognition of the continuing existence of the Ridings of Yorkshire, never abolished, in spite of numerous local government changes that created new administrative counties and lately new unitary authorities.
Members campaign for Yorkshire to be used as part of the postal address in all parts of the historic County. For the real County to appear on maps alongside local government administrative areas and have been active in restoring and erecting signs on the real boundaries of Yorkshire.
The Society invented Yorkshire Day in 1975 and the event is now celebrated, on August 1st each year, in many towns and villages across the real County.
A former member of Cleveland County Council, Chris took a controversial stand as a member of the County Council, actively campaigning for its abolition and its replacement by four unitary authorities, with boundaries along the River Tees - the traditional boundary between Yorkshire and Durham.
The County Council and the administrative county of Cleveland was formally abolished on 1st April 1996. Chris saw this as the catalyst for regaining recognition for the area south of the Tees to be part of Yorkshire for all cultural, ceremonial and sporting and postal purposes. This ambition was partly achieved in 2003 when Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council agreed to recognise its status as part of Yorkshire and decided to use Yorkshire as part of its postal address.
Members of the Society's Executive Committee, met last night in the Black Swan, York, to select a replacement for one of the Society's founder members, Roland (Colin) Holt of Fenwick, near Doncaster, who died in April.
Chris said: "It is a real honour to follow Colin Holt as Chairman of the Ridings Society. It was a sad blow when we lost Colin In April but the Society carries on with the same enthusiasm that has kept it going for more than 30 years.
"I feel proud that members have placed their trust in me as the person to continue the good work that Colin started. Some of these members have travelled to York, from all parts of the County, six or eight times year, in all weathers, to meetings and have kept the Society alive and thriving since 1974."
Roger Sewell, of Goole, who last year completed a charity walk around the boundary of real Yorkshire, is the new Vice Chairman.
The Yorkshire Ridings Society campaigns for recognition of the continuing existence of the Ridings of Yorkshire, never abolished, in spite of numerous local government changes that created new administrative counties and lately new unitary authorities.
Members campaign for Yorkshire to be used as part of the postal address in all parts of the historic County. For the real County to appear on maps alongside local government administrative areas and have been active in restoring and erecting signs on the real boundaries of Yorkshire.
The Society invented Yorkshire Day in 1975 and the event is now celebrated, on August 1st each year, in many towns and villages across the real County.
A former member of Cleveland County Council, Chris took a controversial stand as a member of the County Council, actively campaigning for its abolition and its replacement by four unitary authorities, with boundaries along the River Tees - the traditional boundary between Yorkshire and Durham.
The County Council and the administrative county of Cleveland was formally abolished on 1st April 1996. Chris saw this as the catalyst for regaining recognition for the area south of the Tees to be part of Yorkshire for all cultural, ceremonial and sporting and postal purposes. This ambition was partly achieved in 2003 when Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council agreed to recognise its status as part of Yorkshire and decided to use Yorkshire as part of its postal address.
Tuesday, 24 October 2006
Cool fun on Redcar High Street for half term
Cool fun will arrive at Redcar High Street this half term with Borough’s first ice rink thanks to Redcar and Cleveland Council.
Opening tomorrow, (Wednesday, October 25) the all-weather synthetic polished surface will be open to skaters 10am-9pm daily until Sunday, 29 October with a £3.50 fee per session.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick, said: “The whole town is really excited about the arrival of this ice rink.
“I’m not a very good skater but I will definitely have a go, it’s a fun way to keep fit and spend time with the family”
The rink will hold up to 90 skaters at a time and organisers have a store of 144 pairs of boots with sizes ranging from suitable for those aged three year olds, up to adult size 13.
Construction of the 12 metres by 18 metres rink started on Monday, October 23.
Leaflets with 50p off coupons have distributed across the borough, each coupon is valid for up to four people.
Opening tomorrow, (Wednesday, October 25) the all-weather synthetic polished surface will be open to skaters 10am-9pm daily until Sunday, 29 October with a £3.50 fee per session.
The Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, Leisure and Tourism, Councillor Dave Fitzpatrick, said: “The whole town is really excited about the arrival of this ice rink.
“I’m not a very good skater but I will definitely have a go, it’s a fun way to keep fit and spend time with the family”
The rink will hold up to 90 skaters at a time and organisers have a store of 144 pairs of boots with sizes ranging from suitable for those aged three year olds, up to adult size 13.
Construction of the 12 metres by 18 metres rink started on Monday, October 23.
Leaflets with 50p off coupons have distributed across the borough, each coupon is valid for up to four people.
Monday, 23 October 2006
Coatham abuse has to stop
Posted by Glynis:
On Saturday I was helping to deliver a letter to residents of Coatham on behalf of Josie Crawford, our friend and fellow Lib Dem Councillor. Josie, like us, has had a dreadful time putting up with abuse from certain protestors who do not want a superb leisure and housing development at Coatham. Josie has suffered more than most because she lives close to the site and by helping deliver the letter I was showing my support for her.
These protesters have gone way beyond what is considered to be reasonable and have mounted a campaign of abuse, allegations and scare mongering against members and Council officials that has caused great distress and has wasted so much time. It has got to stop.
None of the allegations and the 1001 conspiracy theories have stood up to scrutiny. They have all proved to be exaggerated nonsense.
As soon as I started to deliver the letter in High Street West out came the lead protester who started bellowing at me in the street: "We don't want this through our letterboxes." "She's a liar." "Your husband's a liar." I simply carried on and ignored the man. They can give it out in spades but if anyone dares to answer back they can't take it.
I post Josie's letter below:
A personal message from Councillor Josie Crawford
Ward Councillor for Coatham
20th October 2006
Dear Coatham Resident.
I have lived in Coatham for 37 years and I have been privileged to serve as its Ward Councillor since 2003. Where I live, the people know me. They know how passionate I am about Coatham.
They, also, know I don’t lie and I am always open and honest about what’s on my mind. This is an open letter and personal message from me. It has not been instigated by anyone other than myself.
As your Ward Councillor, I have to represent the views of all local residents. I work very, very hard to get all of these views and concerns listened to in a constructive and influential way.
There are people who are worried about the proposed development at Coatham. They are worried about the housing, about the change and what might be lost.
As the proposal began to take shape, I openly shared my own views and my own concerns. I have, also, worked hard to fulfil my duties as a Councillor and put forward all views to represent all Coatham residents, and still continue to do so.
I could never have stopped the application from happening. The ball was set rolling long before I was elected, but, believe it or not, Coatham residents have actually influenced what has gone into the final application.
With your support, Irene Curr and I have fought for better pool facilities, the height of the flats on the front to be lowered, the retention of a dance floor, more seafront parking, better footpaths to the seafront and better viewpoints for the homes on High Street West. We were successful in achieving these.
I, have also, offered to meet Coatham Ward protesters to hear their views and concerns at a time and place convenient to them when there was still the opportunity to influence the planning process. My offer was ignored and I never received a reply.
Finally, I went to a massive effort to bring together a Council Scrutiny meeting to scrutinise openly the development proposals for Coatham. This was a crucial meeting that could have significantly influenced the final master plan. It came to nothing, because it was wrecked by loud and unrelenting verbal disruption by a protestor. This meant that many members of the public who, also, wanted to ask questions were unable to do so during the meeting.
This meeting was so important. It was wrecked. I was so angry, because it had taken so much time and effort to actually get the meeting together.
It was at this point I decided the spokesman for the protestors was actually sabotaging any real efforts to influence the planning application and I became increasingly concerned by the method of protest. I openly decided I would not stand by the protestor any longer. This decision saddened me, as I had hoped, together, through reasonable debate, we could influence changes to the final plan.
I cannot support those who think that spitting at me in the street, shouting at me in public, making abusive and aggressive telephone calls to my home, and sending me unpleasant e-mails and letters, is, an effective method of protest.
Many residents who are angry and worried about the development have approached me. They have been reassured once I have explained what is really happening, explained what work has been done to influence the planning application and what still can be done to represent their views on Coatham and on other issues.
I’ve been called ‘spineless’ and ‘an absolute disgrace’ as a Councillor. I am not spineless. I am angry and disappointed. I will not associate with those who cannot conduct themselves in a rational manner and enter into proper debate to be heard. To earn respect you have to show respect.
I have been disgusted at the way that certain protestors have used the proposed Coatham development to attack personally, individual Council officers. The officers are simply getting on with their job. They are responsible and professional persons. I write for them as much as myself. They are hard working and committed.
The Protest has now gone far beyond the Coatham Enclosure issue. It is now also an attack on the Council and its Officers. This is another reason why I cannot show my full support for the protest group even though I share a personal common viewpoint.
Unfortunately, the most vocal protestors won’t be able to fulfil any of the promises they make to anyone, because they have ignored the real opportunities offered to them to influence the development through discussion and debate.
Because I have been so unsettled about the direction and manner of the protest and the consequent pressure imposed upon me, I had considered resigning from my post as your Ward Councillor. This is however not a path I now choose to follow.
I am extremely proud to be representing yourselves and working on your behalf and shall endeavour to continue to act as your representative to the very best of my abilities.
Yours sincerely
Josie Crawford
On Saturday I was helping to deliver a letter to residents of Coatham on behalf of Josie Crawford, our friend and fellow Lib Dem Councillor. Josie, like us, has had a dreadful time putting up with abuse from certain protestors who do not want a superb leisure and housing development at Coatham. Josie has suffered more than most because she lives close to the site and by helping deliver the letter I was showing my support for her.
These protesters have gone way beyond what is considered to be reasonable and have mounted a campaign of abuse, allegations and scare mongering against members and Council officials that has caused great distress and has wasted so much time. It has got to stop.
None of the allegations and the 1001 conspiracy theories have stood up to scrutiny. They have all proved to be exaggerated nonsense.
As soon as I started to deliver the letter in High Street West out came the lead protester who started bellowing at me in the street: "We don't want this through our letterboxes." "She's a liar." "Your husband's a liar." I simply carried on and ignored the man. They can give it out in spades but if anyone dares to answer back they can't take it.
I post Josie's letter below:
A personal message from Councillor Josie Crawford
Ward Councillor for Coatham
20th October 2006
Dear Coatham Resident.
I have lived in Coatham for 37 years and I have been privileged to serve as its Ward Councillor since 2003. Where I live, the people know me. They know how passionate I am about Coatham.
They, also, know I don’t lie and I am always open and honest about what’s on my mind. This is an open letter and personal message from me. It has not been instigated by anyone other than myself.
As your Ward Councillor, I have to represent the views of all local residents. I work very, very hard to get all of these views and concerns listened to in a constructive and influential way.
There are people who are worried about the proposed development at Coatham. They are worried about the housing, about the change and what might be lost.
As the proposal began to take shape, I openly shared my own views and my own concerns. I have, also, worked hard to fulfil my duties as a Councillor and put forward all views to represent all Coatham residents, and still continue to do so.
I could never have stopped the application from happening. The ball was set rolling long before I was elected, but, believe it or not, Coatham residents have actually influenced what has gone into the final application.
With your support, Irene Curr and I have fought for better pool facilities, the height of the flats on the front to be lowered, the retention of a dance floor, more seafront parking, better footpaths to the seafront and better viewpoints for the homes on High Street West. We were successful in achieving these.
I, have also, offered to meet Coatham Ward protesters to hear their views and concerns at a time and place convenient to them when there was still the opportunity to influence the planning process. My offer was ignored and I never received a reply.
Finally, I went to a massive effort to bring together a Council Scrutiny meeting to scrutinise openly the development proposals for Coatham. This was a crucial meeting that could have significantly influenced the final master plan. It came to nothing, because it was wrecked by loud and unrelenting verbal disruption by a protestor. This meant that many members of the public who, also, wanted to ask questions were unable to do so during the meeting.
This meeting was so important. It was wrecked. I was so angry, because it had taken so much time and effort to actually get the meeting together.
It was at this point I decided the spokesman for the protestors was actually sabotaging any real efforts to influence the planning application and I became increasingly concerned by the method of protest. I openly decided I would not stand by the protestor any longer. This decision saddened me, as I had hoped, together, through reasonable debate, we could influence changes to the final plan.
I cannot support those who think that spitting at me in the street, shouting at me in public, making abusive and aggressive telephone calls to my home, and sending me unpleasant e-mails and letters, is, an effective method of protest.
Many residents who are angry and worried about the development have approached me. They have been reassured once I have explained what is really happening, explained what work has been done to influence the planning application and what still can be done to represent their views on Coatham and on other issues.
I’ve been called ‘spineless’ and ‘an absolute disgrace’ as a Councillor. I am not spineless. I am angry and disappointed. I will not associate with those who cannot conduct themselves in a rational manner and enter into proper debate to be heard. To earn respect you have to show respect.
I have been disgusted at the way that certain protestors have used the proposed Coatham development to attack personally, individual Council officers. The officers are simply getting on with their job. They are responsible and professional persons. I write for them as much as myself. They are hard working and committed.
The Protest has now gone far beyond the Coatham Enclosure issue. It is now also an attack on the Council and its Officers. This is another reason why I cannot show my full support for the protest group even though I share a personal common viewpoint.
Unfortunately, the most vocal protestors won’t be able to fulfil any of the promises they make to anyone, because they have ignored the real opportunities offered to them to influence the development through discussion and debate.
Because I have been so unsettled about the direction and manner of the protest and the consequent pressure imposed upon me, I had considered resigning from my post as your Ward Councillor. This is however not a path I now choose to follow.
I am extremely proud to be representing yourselves and working on your behalf and shall endeavour to continue to act as your representative to the very best of my abilities.
Yours sincerely
Josie Crawford
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