Recent Blogs
- New Art Website Launched By Chief Editor| 29 Jan 2009
- Don't You Just Love Call Centres!!! By Chief Editor| 29 Jan 2009
- Share Tips From Shares Magazine By Chief Editor| 22 Jan 2009
- Financial Markets In Turmoil By Chief Editor| 17 Sep 2008
- Pet Friendly Places To Stay By Chief Editor| 9 Sep 2008
Recent News
Herefordshire Schools receive Artsmark awards
- Published 10 Jun 2009
Twelve of the county’s schools are to receive Artsmark awards for the work they have done to increase and improve their arts education provision.
Artsmark recognises and rewards a school’s commitment to continually developing arts provision. It encourages schools to consider the opportunities they offer in art, dance, drama and music. The application process helps to trigger changes in the school’s curriculum making them focus more on creative learning through the various medias embraced by the arts.
Schools to receive this year’s awards are:
Silver
Almeley Primary School
Kings Caple Primary School
Shobdon Primary School
St Mary’s CE Primary School, Credenhill
St Peter’s Primary School, Bromyard
Gold
Bosbury CE Primary School
Holme Lacy Primary School
Ivington CE Primary School
John Masefield High School and Sixth Form Centre
Ledbury Primary School
Mordiford CE Primary School
Pencombe CE Primary School
Herefordshire Council offers support to all schools interested in applying for Artsmark by funding an arts learning officer to organise training events, visit schools needing assistance and develop new arts education schemes to improve the chances of schools applying for Artsmark.
Sarah Laws, Herefordshire Council’s arts learning officer, said: “We are delighted that so many schools have once again received this national accreditation. In total, 45 Herefordshire schools have successfully applied for the award, which is great news for children and families as it makes learning so much more fun.”
An example of some of the exciting work going on in Herefordshire’s primary schools is a three year partnership between eight Herefordshire primary schools and the Royal Shakespeare Company. The schools will put on a major performance in 2010 at The Courtyard, and one school will be selected to go forward to the national final in Stratford-on-Avon.
Artsmark recognises and rewards a school’s commitment to continually developing arts provision. It encourages schools to consider the opportunities they offer in art, dance, drama and music. The application process helps to trigger changes in the school’s curriculum making them focus more on creative learning through the various medias embraced by the arts.
Schools to receive this year’s awards are:
Silver
Almeley Primary School
Kings Caple Primary School
Shobdon Primary School
St Mary’s CE Primary School, Credenhill
St Peter’s Primary School, Bromyard
Gold
Bosbury CE Primary School
Holme Lacy Primary School
Ivington CE Primary School
John Masefield High School and Sixth Form Centre
Ledbury Primary School
Mordiford CE Primary School
Pencombe CE Primary School
Herefordshire Council offers support to all schools interested in applying for Artsmark by funding an arts learning officer to organise training events, visit schools needing assistance and develop new arts education schemes to improve the chances of schools applying for Artsmark.
Sarah Laws, Herefordshire Council’s arts learning officer, said: “We are delighted that so many schools have once again received this national accreditation. In total, 45 Herefordshire schools have successfully applied for the award, which is great news for children and families as it makes learning so much more fun.”
An example of some of the exciting work going on in Herefordshire’s primary schools is a three year partnership between eight Herefordshire primary schools and the Royal Shakespeare Company. The schools will put on a major performance in 2010 at The Courtyard, and one school will be selected to go forward to the national final in Stratford-on-Avon.
Council calls for tax cuts to fill empty shops
- Published 8 Apr 2009
Herefordshire Council has added its voice to calls for the government to slash VAT on the refurbishment of empty shops from 15 per cent to 5 per cent to encourage local economies.
Several local authorities support the move for temporary measures to avoid town centres falling into decline, and the Local Government Association (LGA) is pressing the case on their behalf.
“Across the UK we are told that around 200 shops a day are closing”, said Councillor Adrian Blackshaw, cabinet member for economic development.
“Thankfully, Herefordshire has not been hit as hard as many other parts of the country and we still have plenty of good quality shops to offer visitors and tourists. However, if businesses were encouraged with a tax incentive to move into and refurbish empty shops, we could avoid the possibility of our market towns being turned into ghost towns.
"The council is taking decisive action to protect local people and small businesses, and helping through our mortgage relief scheme to keep people in their own homes, as well as promoting the building of more affordable homes for the future. However, more good be done at a national level for the good of market towns everywhere in the UK.”
Figures published by the Local Government Association, which represents councils in England, show that four out of five councils are now seeing empty properties on the increase in their town centres and this is impacting on the look and viability of their high streets as well as the confidence of shoppers and shopkeepers alike.
Several local authorities support the move for temporary measures to avoid town centres falling into decline, and the Local Government Association (LGA) is pressing the case on their behalf.
“Across the UK we are told that around 200 shops a day are closing”, said Councillor Adrian Blackshaw, cabinet member for economic development.
“Thankfully, Herefordshire has not been hit as hard as many other parts of the country and we still have plenty of good quality shops to offer visitors and tourists. However, if businesses were encouraged with a tax incentive to move into and refurbish empty shops, we could avoid the possibility of our market towns being turned into ghost towns.
"The council is taking decisive action to protect local people and small businesses, and helping through our mortgage relief scheme to keep people in their own homes, as well as promoting the building of more affordable homes for the future. However, more good be done at a national level for the good of market towns everywhere in the UK.”
Figures published by the Local Government Association, which represents councils in England, show that four out of five councils are now seeing empty properties on the increase in their town centres and this is impacting on the look and viability of their high streets as well as the confidence of shoppers and shopkeepers alike.
Herefordshire to challenge the banks to support recovery
- Published 16 Mar 2009
Herefordshire Council is organising an event to help local businesses access the finance they need to survive and prosper during the economic downturn – and prepare for recovery.
The Financial Matters event will be held in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce Herefordshire and Worcester. It will bring the county’s enterprises together with senior regional representatives of all major high street banks to discuss how together the local economy can be positioned strongly to take advantage of recovery. The regional development agency Advantage West Midlands will also be on hand, together with finance consultants Impetus.
The event will be held on 25 March from 3pm to 5pm at Hereford Leisure Centre, Holmer Road, Hereford in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce’s Herefordshire Business Expo, which runs from 7.30am to 3pm at the same venue.
The council believes that Herefordshire – as the regional capital for enterprise – has a wide spread of industry and commerce. As the county is not dependent on any one market or sector, it is well placed for recovery, providing the money market is there to support it.
Councillor Adrian Blackshaw, cabinet member for economic development, explained the purpose of the event: “There are many businesses seeking finance to sustain their business during the downturn, as well as enterprises who want to be ahead of the game in preparation for the recovery.
“Having recently won the accolade Enterprise Capital of the West Midlands - Herefordshire is very competitive and has much to offer”, he added, “but the council wants to do everything it can to ensure companies have the information at hand to take full advantage of all the support available”.
The views of businesses will be heard at a panel discussion, with key speakers joined by senior representatives from Herefordshire Council and Chamber of Commerce.
The council has also produced an interactive guide to access support during the downturn on its web site: www.herefordshire.gov.uk/economicdownturn.
Also available is a quick contact guide for businesses and individuals to access services, which can be obtained from council info shops, libraries and on the council web site. For hard copies of the guide contact Info in Herefordshire on telephone: 01432 260500 or email: info@herefordshire.gov.uk.
The Financial Matters event will be held in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce Herefordshire and Worcester. It will bring the county’s enterprises together with senior regional representatives of all major high street banks to discuss how together the local economy can be positioned strongly to take advantage of recovery. The regional development agency Advantage West Midlands will also be on hand, together with finance consultants Impetus.
The event will be held on 25 March from 3pm to 5pm at Hereford Leisure Centre, Holmer Road, Hereford in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce’s Herefordshire Business Expo, which runs from 7.30am to 3pm at the same venue.
The council believes that Herefordshire – as the regional capital for enterprise – has a wide spread of industry and commerce. As the county is not dependent on any one market or sector, it is well placed for recovery, providing the money market is there to support it.
Councillor Adrian Blackshaw, cabinet member for economic development, explained the purpose of the event: “There are many businesses seeking finance to sustain their business during the downturn, as well as enterprises who want to be ahead of the game in preparation for the recovery.
“Having recently won the accolade Enterprise Capital of the West Midlands - Herefordshire is very competitive and has much to offer”, he added, “but the council wants to do everything it can to ensure companies have the information at hand to take full advantage of all the support available”.
The views of businesses will be heard at a panel discussion, with key speakers joined by senior representatives from Herefordshire Council and Chamber of Commerce.
The council has also produced an interactive guide to access support during the downturn on its web site: www.herefordshire.gov.uk/economicdownturn.
Also available is a quick contact guide for businesses and individuals to access services, which can be obtained from council info shops, libraries and on the council web site. For hard copies of the guide contact Info in Herefordshire on telephone: 01432 260500 or email: info@herefordshire.gov.uk.
Featured Articles
Education task group agrees way forward
- By Chief Editor
- Published 29 Jan 2009
- Herefordshire
- Unrated
The future of Herefordshire’s education and learning provision is under discussion again as a new education task group met for the first time this week.The task group has been established as a result of a conference in December where head teachers, governors, officers and councillors met to discuss how to strategically plan the county’s educational provision for the next ten years.
Membership of the task group includes representatives from the Diocese, Herefordshire Council, primary and secondary schools and school governors. An independent chair will be appointed by Chris Bull, chief executive of Herefordshire Council and NHS Herefordshire.
At the group’s first meeting held on January 27th, they agreed terms of reference, discussed aims and purpose, and agreed how the group was going to work.
The group will act as an advisory body to the council and develop a set of criteria and principles than can be applied to the future planning of educational provision in the county. It is hoped to produce this draft criteria by May 2009. The next step will be to develop a strategic plan of provision based on this criteria and agreed principles, including options, which will be available for formal consultation in July. After consultation, the task group will put forward recommendations to the council’s Cabinet in November 2009.
In order to be open and transparent, minutes of meetings will be published on the council’s web site and schools and the local media will be kept up-to-date on progress.
The meeting was very positive with much debate about all the sensitivities any future planning would need to consider and the breadth of views that would need to be taken into account at every stage.
The priority for the next meeting, which is due to take place in February, will be to discuss principles around the quality of education that every child in the county should be entitled to.
New plans to make Suffolk safer
- By Chief Editor
- Published 3 Oct 2008
- Suffolk
- Unrated
Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet will be discussing new proposals next week designed to make Suffolk a safer place to live in, work in and visit.The draft Suffolk Fire and Rescue Authority Integrated Risk Management Plan for 2009/2010 includes nine actions which aim to reduce risk in the county through better use of resources and more accurate targeting of prevention, protection and response initiatives.
The proposed actions are to:
- Increase the home fire safety checks carried out by the Fire and Rescue Service in Suffolk
- Increase the use of domestic sprinkler systems
- Improve partnership working and commissioning
- Improve the fire safety protection service, which enforces fire safety regulations in business premises
- Increase the installation of sprinklers in industrial and commercial buildings, and in schools
- Improve the way building regulations consultations are dealt with
- Establish plans for new training facilities for the service
- Improve the way we support retained duty system fire stations
- Explore opportunities to create a number of Rural Safety Officers
“Improving home fire safety checks means that we would target the most vulnerable people in our communities, such as older people, and help them to improve fire safety in their homes, including fitting smoke detectors. Improving the use of sprinklers is an effective way of reducing the impact of fires in houses, commercial properties and schools – a single sprinkler head can extinguish a fire and save lives.”
A Policy Development Panel is already in place to look at the effectiveness of the retained service and to identify and address issues to secure the future of the service over the next ten years. The risk management plan identifies the need to review the outcomes of this work, including seeing if stand-by funding (used to ensure retained engines can be crewed) could be better used for other community safety activities, which are proven to prevent fires.
If the Cabinet agrees to the proposals, a 12 week period of public consultation on them will take place across the county. This will include roadshows in town centres, where the public will be able to speak to fire and rescue officers and councillors about the action plan.
New access road officially open for business
- By Chief Editor
- Published 30 Sep 2008
- Herefordshire
- Unrated
The Rotherwas access road has received the stamp of approval from local businesses which can now send out goods without height or weight restrictions.The 2.2-mile road, which has taken 16 months to build, came into use for the first time at the end of June.
On Monday, September 29, Nick Paul, chairman of Advantage West Midlands, officially declared the road open and unveiled a plaque.
Assembled guests heard Debbie Gittoes, from Arctic Circle, who spoke on behalf of local businesses.
She said the new road was essential to guarantee the future success of Rotherwas.
"Despite my previous lack of confidence that the access road would ever be built, it is now open for business.
“It is up to us, the business community at Rotherwas, to demonstrate that not only was it essential for the prosperity of Rotherwas and the wider region, but that it was money well spent.
“The best way to do this is for these businesses to prosper and increase their contribution to the local economy".
Cllr Brian Wilcox, Herefordshire Council’s cabinet member for highways and transportation, said the new road came at a key time in the development of the area.
“Rotherwas Futures promises a bright future for the area which will be developed to maintain it as the premier location for businesses in Herefordshire.
“Such a location demands first class access and this is exactly what the new road delivers. We’re delighted to have been able to work with Advantage West Midlands to create this lifeline to the businesses of Rotherwas.”
Nick Paul, chairman of Advantage West Midlands, said: "Today's official opening of the access road is great news for Rotherwas businesses and for Herefordshire.
"It solves the longstanding issue of restricted road access - and is an opportunity to change perceptions of Rotherwas by creating a quality business environment where companies are more likely to stay, invest and grow.
“That means more jobs and better jobs for the people of Herefordshire.
"This is partnership working at its best. Herefordshire Council and Advantage West Midlands have worked together to open a first class transport link in just two years."
Carillion Project Manager Ashley Brookes said: “We’re pleased to have played a part in developing and securing the long term future of the people and businesses of Rotherwas through building this long-awaited access road for our clients.
“The scheme has included a range of environmental measures including tree and hedgerow planting, provision of a hibernaculum a natural habitat for insect and small animals, general landscaping, stream re-alignment and mitigation against impact on protected species by the creation of a multi species tunnel all of which are testament to our mission of making tomorrow a better place.”
Rotherwas access road facts:
- Work on the road started in March 2007 and it opened for business at the end of June 2008
- The road is 2.2 miles long, a single carriageway route from the A49 (north of Grafton Inn) to a new roundabout at the junction of Holme Lacy Road and Chapel Road
- The main contractor was Carrillion plc and the main consultant, which supervised the construction of the scheme, was Amey Consulting
- More than eight miles of fencing has been installed, including a combination of specialist fencing to protect badgers, otters, newts and livestock from the new road
- An underpass has been installed for use by badgers, newts and bats and two culvert structures have included ledges for use by badgers and otters
- The sustainable drainage system uses a variety of features including balancing ponds which help reduce flooding, improve the quality of water from the new road and provide important habitat sites.
Herefordshire Council is one of the best council tax collectors
- By Chief Editor
- Published 10 Sep 2008
- Herefordshire
- Unrated
Herefordshire Council has out-performed many other authorities in the region and across the UK after collecting 98.6 per cent of the council tax it should have during 2007/08.The average amount collected by council across the West Midlands stands at 97.2 per cent, while the average for councils in the UK stands at 97.1 per cent.
The average amount collected by other unitary authorities in England stands at 96.7 per cent – nearly two per cent less than Herefordshire Council’s collection rate.
“This is good news for the people of Herefordshire as it demonstrates that the council is very efficient at collecting local money which goes towards the cost of providing more than 800 different services it provides to the communities in the county,” said Cllr Harry Bramer, cabinet member with responsibility for resources.
“No council can achieve a collection rate of 100 per cent – one of the reasons for this is that bills issued later in the year are unlikely to be recovered before the end of March, so there is always a figure that is outstanding to be collected in the next financial year.
“Herefordshire people have a strong sense of civic responsibility, so it’s only fair to those people who pay their council tax on time that we secure late payments as quickly as possible.
“Indeed, since the year end financial figures were published, we have significantly reduced the amount which remains uncollected from around £1 million to £800,000.
“While we recognise that there will be people who may find it difficult to pay their council tax, the message for the minority of people who can pay but won’t is that we will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of the money that is owed,” added Cllr Bramer.
Visit Tamworth
- By Chief Editor
- Published 13 Aug 2008
- Tamworth
- Unrated
A new Tamworth website called Visit Tamworth has been launched.The website has details of Tamworth accommodation (hotels, bed & breakfast and self catering), Tamworth attractions, restaurants, shopping and business.
Link: Tamworth
Recent Articles
Herefordshire schools celebrated as role models
- By Chief Editor
- Published 21 May 2009
- Herefordshire
- Unrated
Herefordshire schools have been named as role models of sustainable living in a national publication aimed at getting people to reduce their harmful impact on the environment.
The schools – Kings Caple Primary, Staunton-on-Wye Primary, Marden Primary School and Whitecross High School – feature in the publication Positive action: Greening the Local Community which has been published by the National Association for Environmental Education (NAEE) and feature in a series of case studies designed to inspire others to follow their example.
Kings Caple Primary School is mentioned for its Big Tidy Up day when some of the children did a walk around the village picking up litter and clearing up leaves which not only improved the environment but also boosted links with the local community.
Staunton-on-Wye Primary School’s Eco-Committee is included for designing and selling recycled cloth bags to the local community and the school is also praised for its emphasis on outdoor learning.
Marden Primary School is included for installing a wind turbine and solar electricity panels which not only power a proportion of the school but, during the holidays, allows electricity to be exported back into the National Grid.
Whitecross High School is included as an example of how school buildings can be a national flagship for renewable energy use. The school has a sedum roof and the heating in the building is managed so it only comes on when needed.
These schools are used as role models of sustainable living and teachers will find it a useful resource when planning Eco-Schools, Travel Plans and Healthy Schools.
Antonia Fitch, Herefordshire Council’s sustainability officer, said ”We believe this publication is an inspiring resource for the community and schools that would like to become sustainable and are delighted that so many of our schools have been highlighted as examples to follow. A copy of the publication will be sent to all schools in Herefordshire.”
For further information or to request a copy of the publication, contact Antonia on 01432 260132 or email eco-schools@herefordshire.gov.uk
The schools – Kings Caple Primary, Staunton-on-Wye Primary, Marden Primary School and Whitecross High School – feature in the publication Positive action: Greening the Local Community which has been published by the National Association for Environmental Education (NAEE) and feature in a series of case studies designed to inspire others to follow their example.
Kings Caple Primary School is mentioned for its Big Tidy Up day when some of the children did a walk around the village picking up litter and clearing up leaves which not only improved the environment but also boosted links with the local community.
Staunton-on-Wye Primary School’s Eco-Committee is included for designing and selling recycled cloth bags to the local community and the school is also praised for its emphasis on outdoor learning.
Marden Primary School is included for installing a wind turbine and solar electricity panels which not only power a proportion of the school but, during the holidays, allows electricity to be exported back into the National Grid.
Whitecross High School is included as an example of how school buildings can be a national flagship for renewable energy use. The school has a sedum roof and the heating in the building is managed so it only comes on when needed.
These schools are used as role models of sustainable living and teachers will find it a useful resource when planning Eco-Schools, Travel Plans and Healthy Schools.
Antonia Fitch, Herefordshire Council’s sustainability officer, said ”We believe this publication is an inspiring resource for the community and schools that would like to become sustainable and are delighted that so many of our schools have been highlighted as examples to follow. A copy of the publication will be sent to all schools in Herefordshire.”
For further information or to request a copy of the publication, contact Antonia on 01432 260132 or email eco-schools@herefordshire.gov.uk
Pride awards 2009 to celebrate county’s achievements
- By Chief Editor
- Published 6 May 2009
- Herefordshire
- Unrated
Planning is already well under way for the 2009 Pride of Herefordshire Awards and county residents are being urged to start thinking now of people whose efforts in making the community a better place to live should be rewarded.
Last year’s overall award winner Elizabeth Francis, 79, from Dorstone, said: “I was overwhelmed to receive the award and would really encourage other people to nominate people who they think deserve to be rewarded as it really does make a big difference to them.”
Elizabeth won the award for being a real village stalwart who runs a warm, open house for her neighbours.
Two new categories have been added to this year's awards, run by the Herefordshire Partnership, of which Herefordshire Council is a member, in conjunction with the Hereford Journal.
These are both Community Group Awards for community organisations that have made a difference locally, one for groups with fewer than 10 members and one for groups with more than 10 members.
The other categories are:
For further details about the awards scheme and how to nominate someone please contact the Herefordshire Partnership on 01432 261751 or log onto the website www.prideofherefordshire.co.uk
Last year’s overall award winner Elizabeth Francis, 79, from Dorstone, said: “I was overwhelmed to receive the award and would really encourage other people to nominate people who they think deserve to be rewarded as it really does make a big difference to them.”
Elizabeth won the award for being a real village stalwart who runs a warm, open house for her neighbours.
Two new categories have been added to this year's awards, run by the Herefordshire Partnership, of which Herefordshire Council is a member, in conjunction with the Hereford Journal.
These are both Community Group Awards for community organisations that have made a difference locally, one for groups with fewer than 10 members and one for groups with more than 10 members.
The other categories are:
- Herefordshire Entrepreneur Award: Someone who is successful in business, with an innovative approach.
- Herefordshire Learner Award: Someone who has learnt new skills or knowledge and uses them in their day-to-day life or an achiever who may have overcome obstacles to progress.
- Herefordshire Courage Award: Someone who in a personal or community capacity has overcome adversity or made the community a safer place by their actions.
- Herefordshire Environmental Champion: Someone who has made a difference to the environment in his or her local community.
- Herefordshire Adult Carer Award: Someone who looks after or helps others, whether family at home, or in their community.
- Herefordshire Young Carer Award: Someone up to 18 years old who looks after or helps others, whether family at home, or in their community.
- Herefordshire Health Champion: Someone who has improved people's health and quality of life.
For further details about the awards scheme and how to nominate someone please contact the Herefordshire Partnership on 01432 261751 or log onto the website www.prideofherefordshire.co.uk
Herefordshire residents urged to have say on waste management
- By Chief Editor
- Published 21 Apr 2009
- Herefordshire
- Unrated
Herefordshire Council is looking to hear from residents about future plans for waste management in the county and neighbouring Worcestershire.
The Joint Municipal Waste Management Strategy for Herefordshire and Worcestershire sets out how household and some commercial waste is managed by councils in the two counties.
Originally put together in 2004, the strategy covers the period up to 2034 and it is currently under review with a number of important changes being proposed.
Views of residents are being sought on the proposed changes to ensure that the final strategy reflects the needs and opinions of local people.
Although there has been a marked reduction in the amount of waste produced and an increase in recycling rates, there has been a shift in national government approach to waste management.
There is now much more emphasis on reducing the effect waste management has on climate change. As a result the government has introduced tougher financial penalties to all council’s who exceed set landfill allowances.
Landfill is a major producer of methane gas, a greenhouse gas linked to harmful climate change. In order to avoid these fines, the strategy now includes consideration of how to use waste as a valuable resource and how to reach recycling rates of 45 per cent by 2015.
Resident views and feedback will play a large role in the review.
Councillor John Jarvis, Herefordshire Council’s cabinet member for the environment and Strategic Housing said: “We need to start looking at waste as a potential resource as we simply cannot continue to fill up landfill sites.
“Although we already boast a number of fantastic recycling initiatives across the two counties, we need to be even more creative in how we deal with waste. It is important that residents have the opportunity to share their views as this important issue needs to be addressed collectively by the community and I would urge everyone to make sure they have their say,” he added.
The feedback from the resident consultation and engagement will be used to inform proposed solutions for long-term sustainable waste management.
Further information on the waste strategy consultation is available from the council’s website www.herefordshire.gov.uk/wastestrategy. A short questionnaire is available for residents to give us their views on this important document. You can fill the questionnaire out online. The deadline for responses is 15th May 2009.
For further information or to request a questionnaire to be sent to you contact Herefordshire Council on 01432 260051.
The Joint Municipal Waste Management Strategy for Herefordshire and Worcestershire sets out how household and some commercial waste is managed by councils in the two counties.
Originally put together in 2004, the strategy covers the period up to 2034 and it is currently under review with a number of important changes being proposed.
Views of residents are being sought on the proposed changes to ensure that the final strategy reflects the needs and opinions of local people.
Although there has been a marked reduction in the amount of waste produced and an increase in recycling rates, there has been a shift in national government approach to waste management.
There is now much more emphasis on reducing the effect waste management has on climate change. As a result the government has introduced tougher financial penalties to all council’s who exceed set landfill allowances.
Landfill is a major producer of methane gas, a greenhouse gas linked to harmful climate change. In order to avoid these fines, the strategy now includes consideration of how to use waste as a valuable resource and how to reach recycling rates of 45 per cent by 2015.
Resident views and feedback will play a large role in the review.
Councillor John Jarvis, Herefordshire Council’s cabinet member for the environment and Strategic Housing said: “We need to start looking at waste as a potential resource as we simply cannot continue to fill up landfill sites.
“Although we already boast a number of fantastic recycling initiatives across the two counties, we need to be even more creative in how we deal with waste. It is important that residents have the opportunity to share their views as this important issue needs to be addressed collectively by the community and I would urge everyone to make sure they have their say,” he added.
The feedback from the resident consultation and engagement will be used to inform proposed solutions for long-term sustainable waste management.
Further information on the waste strategy consultation is available from the council’s website www.herefordshire.gov.uk/wastestrategy. A short questionnaire is available for residents to give us their views on this important document. You can fill the questionnaire out online. The deadline for responses is 15th May 2009.
For further information or to request a questionnaire to be sent to you contact Herefordshire Council on 01432 260051.
Primary schools to benefit from £8.3m cash boost
- By Chief Editor
- Published 27 Mar 2009
- Herefordshire
- Unrated
Herefordshire's primary schools are to benefit from a financial boost worth £8.3million thanks to the council successfully revising and resubmitting its Primary Strategy for Change to the Department for Children, Schools and Families (DCSF).
The National Primary Strategy for Change programme is designed to rebuild, remodel or refurbish about half of primary schools across the country over the next 14 years. Like many other authorities in the country, Herefordshire Council submitted a strategy in July 2008 but was told more work needed to be done before the strategy could be approved. The council worked hard during December 2008 and January 2009 to improve its strategy which was resubmitted in January 2009.
The DCSF has approved the revised strategy this week and as a result, £8.3m will be released to Herefordshire over the next two years with further funding to follow. Most of the funding will be used to create a new primary school in Leominster, by merging the existing infant and junior schools. There will also be a fund available to support small schemes that meet the Primary Strategy for Change criteria. This will enable other primary schools in the county to benefit from the strategy as well and over the next few weeks they will be invited to bid for some of the cash.
Cllr Philip Price, cabinet member for ICT, education and achievement, said: “This is really good news for children and young people in Herefordshire, and for the schools that educate and support them.
“The revised strategy had to respond to a number of issues such as how the council will support world class standards in our schools, how links will be made between schools and early years settings, how we intend to address deprivation and how we can make sure all schools benefit from good quality ICT both within the communities and in the classroom.
“I am delighted to learn that children’s services officers have managed to address these issues in their revised strategy and that so many schools will benefit as a result.”
The next step will be for the local authority to begin working with Leominster Infant and Junior schools to agree a way forward for the two schools to come together.
The National Primary Strategy for Change programme is designed to rebuild, remodel or refurbish about half of primary schools across the country over the next 14 years. Like many other authorities in the country, Herefordshire Council submitted a strategy in July 2008 but was told more work needed to be done before the strategy could be approved. The council worked hard during December 2008 and January 2009 to improve its strategy which was resubmitted in January 2009.
The DCSF has approved the revised strategy this week and as a result, £8.3m will be released to Herefordshire over the next two years with further funding to follow. Most of the funding will be used to create a new primary school in Leominster, by merging the existing infant and junior schools. There will also be a fund available to support small schemes that meet the Primary Strategy for Change criteria. This will enable other primary schools in the county to benefit from the strategy as well and over the next few weeks they will be invited to bid for some of the cash.
Cllr Philip Price, cabinet member for ICT, education and achievement, said: “This is really good news for children and young people in Herefordshire, and for the schools that educate and support them.
“The revised strategy had to respond to a number of issues such as how the council will support world class standards in our schools, how links will be made between schools and early years settings, how we intend to address deprivation and how we can make sure all schools benefit from good quality ICT both within the communities and in the classroom.
“I am delighted to learn that children’s services officers have managed to address these issues in their revised strategy and that so many schools will benefit as a result.”
The next step will be for the local authority to begin working with Leominster Infant and Junior schools to agree a way forward for the two schools to come together.
Getting youngsters back on track
- By Chief Editor
- Published 16 Mar 2009
- Herefordshire
- Unrated
Some of the county’s 14-16 year olds who have previously struggled with their learning are now back on track to gain qualifications because of a new innovative programme in Herefordshire.
Around five percent of Herefordshire’s young people in years 10 and 11 have the potential to end up dropping out of traditional education every year, which is lower than the national average, but a concern nevertheless. The reasons vary but can include difficulties at home, problems with peers at school or difficulty relating the school environment to future careers and work.
Under the new Live and Learn programme launched in 2008, arrangements have been made for 250 pupils to spend one a day week out of school working on practical work-based activities to encourage them back into learning.
Organisations involved in the scheme include Keith St Peters hairdressers, the Wye Wood project, Taste for Adventure, Herefordshire College of Technology and CVS Herefordshire. As well as providing practical work related opportunities for the young people, these organisations are involved in mentoring them, providing support and guidance and helping them understand the learning required to embark on specific professions.
Lisa Amos from Herefordshire Council, said: “By pursuing one day a week of practical work-related activities in a real working environment, pupils are able to see how their school work relates to the world of work and this has been of great benefit to them.
“The project offers a second chance for pupils who become disengaged from school and has proved to be a much needed lifeline – it’s a route back into education. It has meant some children at risk of exclusion have now settled back into school and are doing really well.”
Anyone wanting more information about the programme which is funded by the European Social Fund, or any businesses wanting to get involved, should contact Lisa on 01432 260379.
Around five percent of Herefordshire’s young people in years 10 and 11 have the potential to end up dropping out of traditional education every year, which is lower than the national average, but a concern nevertheless. The reasons vary but can include difficulties at home, problems with peers at school or difficulty relating the school environment to future careers and work.
Under the new Live and Learn programme launched in 2008, arrangements have been made for 250 pupils to spend one a day week out of school working on practical work-based activities to encourage them back into learning.
Organisations involved in the scheme include Keith St Peters hairdressers, the Wye Wood project, Taste for Adventure, Herefordshire College of Technology and CVS Herefordshire. As well as providing practical work related opportunities for the young people, these organisations are involved in mentoring them, providing support and guidance and helping them understand the learning required to embark on specific professions.
Lisa Amos from Herefordshire Council, said: “By pursuing one day a week of practical work-related activities in a real working environment, pupils are able to see how their school work relates to the world of work and this has been of great benefit to them.
“The project offers a second chance for pupils who become disengaged from school and has proved to be a much needed lifeline – it’s a route back into education. It has meant some children at risk of exclusion have now settled back into school and are doing really well.”
Anyone wanting more information about the programme which is funded by the European Social Fund, or any businesses wanting to get involved, should contact Lisa on 01432 260379.
‘Explore Oxfordshire’ exhibition
- By Chief Editor
- Published 16 Mar 2009
- Oxfordshire
- Unrated
A countywide exhibition showcasing Oxfordshire’s tourist attractions is taking place on March 23 at the Barceló Oxford Hotel, between 10.30am and 3pm.
As tourism businesses across Oxfordshire prepare for Easter and the new season, this ‘first ever’ event marks the start of British Tourism Week 2009. It is being organised by West Oxfordshire District Council’s tourism team on behalf of all the Oxfordshire councils.
Over 40 Oxfordshire attractions are exhibiting and amongst these will be major attractions including Bicester Village, Blenheim Palace, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Didcot Railway and Oxford Castle. The exhibition is set to appeal to a wide audience and it is expected that many smaller businesses involved in the tourist industry will be attending.
One of the museum attractions exhibiting is Kelmscott Manor, the former home of William Morris. Jane Milne, the Manor’s Property Manager said: “It is a really good opportunity to advertise the forthcoming season alongside other museums and attractions in the county. For us it is particularly important as this year we are opening up more of Kelmscott Manor to the public and there will be more Saturday openings than in previous years.”
Cllr Hilary Biles, West Oxfordshire District Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Tourism said: “This is a brand new event which is attracting a lot of interest. We believe it will serve a range of needs from guesthouse owners to travel operators. For tourism businesses it as an important meeting place before the season begins and is likely to result in new working relationships for several companies.
“For local residents it is an opportunity to find out what’s on offer close to home – and there is even a chance to enter a competition to win a ‘Day Out’. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event.“
Tourism is an important industry in Oxfordshire, contributing almost £1.5 billion a year to the local economy and providing employment for nearly 28,000 people. It is estimated that about 23.5 million people visit Oxfordshire each year.
The exhibition is being promoted by all the Oxfordshire councils, Tourism South East, newspaper advertising and the British Tourism Week website. To find out more about the event visit the Oxfordshire Cotswolds website: www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org/site/industry or telephone 01993 861553.
As tourism businesses across Oxfordshire prepare for Easter and the new season, this ‘first ever’ event marks the start of British Tourism Week 2009. It is being organised by West Oxfordshire District Council’s tourism team on behalf of all the Oxfordshire councils.
Over 40 Oxfordshire attractions are exhibiting and amongst these will be major attractions including Bicester Village, Blenheim Palace, Cotswold Wildlife Park, Didcot Railway and Oxford Castle. The exhibition is set to appeal to a wide audience and it is expected that many smaller businesses involved in the tourist industry will be attending.
One of the museum attractions exhibiting is Kelmscott Manor, the former home of William Morris. Jane Milne, the Manor’s Property Manager said: “It is a really good opportunity to advertise the forthcoming season alongside other museums and attractions in the county. For us it is particularly important as this year we are opening up more of Kelmscott Manor to the public and there will be more Saturday openings than in previous years.”
Cllr Hilary Biles, West Oxfordshire District Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Tourism said: “This is a brand new event which is attracting a lot of interest. We believe it will serve a range of needs from guesthouse owners to travel operators. For tourism businesses it as an important meeting place before the season begins and is likely to result in new working relationships for several companies.
“For local residents it is an opportunity to find out what’s on offer close to home – and there is even a chance to enter a competition to win a ‘Day Out’. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event.“
Tourism is an important industry in Oxfordshire, contributing almost £1.5 billion a year to the local economy and providing employment for nearly 28,000 people. It is estimated that about 23.5 million people visit Oxfordshire each year.
The exhibition is being promoted by all the Oxfordshire councils, Tourism South East, newspaper advertising and the British Tourism Week website. To find out more about the event visit the Oxfordshire Cotswolds website: www.oxfordshirecotswolds.org/site/industry or telephone 01993 861553.