ECDCsum08 pp01 cover.qxd - East Cambridgeshire District Council

Transcription

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east
cambridgeshire
www.eastcambs.gov.uk
ISSUE 5 SUMMER 2008
Get your
kids to try
different
sports
Win tickets
to the
Cambridge
Rock Festival!
Celebrating
Cromwell
Revived attraction honours
the Fens’ most famous son
INSIDE: SUMMER EVENTS • BIN AND RECYCLING DAYS • NOISY NEIGHBOURS • EXTENSIONS IN CONSERVATION AREAS
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welcome contents
A message from
Councillor Fred
Brown, Leader of
East Cambridgeshire
District Council
I have lived in East
Cambridgeshire for many
years now and I love it. There
are so many different places
and characters out there
which make the District what
it is – a thriving, vibrant area
where lots of people want to live.
You just have to look at some of the events
coming up this summer to see what I mean.
We have the Littleport Show, the Haddenham
Steam Rally and even the World Pea Shooting
Championships in Witcham coming soon. Each
event has a unique heritage which has
sustained many changes over the years to
create events which are really popular today.
In a sense, we can learn a lot from these
events as we move forward in the District. Let’s
make no bones about it – change is everywhere
and we can’t hide away from it. But this doesn’t
mean we have to sacrifice all that makes East
Cambridgeshire great.
We must hold onto our traditions and our
heritage because this is what attracts people to
the District. So we need to manage our growth
and celebrate our successes, while embracing
the new schemes and projects which can make
us stronger in the future.
This means dealing with the real issues that
affect people’s lives. Whether it is anti-social
behaviour, decriminalisation of parking or
growth, we must look for answers to the
problems that are out there.
However, we can’t do this by ourselves. The
days have long gone when councils could bring
about change by themselves. To really change
people’s lives we need to work in partnership
with other organisations, community groups
and, most importantly, the public.
For all the tradition and history in East
Cambridgeshire, it is the people who live here
who make it what it is. This is why we need to
talk to you and involve you as we try to make
the District an even better place to be.
I am proud to be Leader of the District
Council. It is a position that not many people
get to hold. I promise I will do my best to serve
the interests of East Cambridgeshire and its
residents so that, in years to come, we can look
back and celebrate how we tackled the big
issues and changed lives for the better.
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Contents
Features
Oliver twists
Child’s play
4
Oliver Cromwell’s historic stately home in Ely
has undergone some major refurbishments to
provide new facilities for visitors to the house
and the Tourist Information Centre within
Witchford wonder
8
A state-of-the-art centre is replacing the waste
site at Grunty Fen, taking East Cambridgeshire’s
recycling facilities into the future
Eco-extensions
10
Conservation area? No problem! Be inspired
by these savvy ideas for making improvements
to your home with minimal impact on the
surrounding environment
Sounding off
14
Complaints about noise are a common issue for
the Council. Here’s how to turn things down –
and how to deal with a noisy neighbour
16
There are plenty of fun sports clubs around the
District to encourage kids to get fit and active
Photo focus
Strawberries ripe!
20
Get a quintessential taste of summer with
these mouthwatering images of British berries
at their best
News and events
Great days out and diary
22
News update
from the Council
26
Finance and accounts
28
Recycling and bin days
30
Publisher
Advertising
Design and Production
East Cambridgeshire District Council
The Grange, Nutholt Lane, Ely CB7 4PL
For all council enquiries (and availability of
this magazine in other languages/formats)
tel: 01353 665555. Editor: Tony Taylorson.
Photographer: Geoff Durrant
Rob Tidswell
Advertising Manager
01223 477427 (direct line)
01223 477411 (switchboard)
01223 304760 (fax)
rob@cpl.biz
Cambridge Publishers Ltd
275 Newmarket Road
Cambridge CB5 8JE
Tel: 01223 477411
Fax: 01223 327356
www.cpl.biz
©All rights reserved. No part of East Cambridgeshire magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior permission in writing from
the copyright owners. The opinons expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of the Publisher or of Cambridge Publishers Ltd. In accordance with Section
51(6)(b) of the Local Government Act 2000, notice is hereby given that East Cambridgeshire District Council adopted a new Code of Conduct for Members on 22nd May
2007. This code applies to all Councillors and Co-opted Members of the authority with voting rights and replaces the previous code adopted in March 2002. Furthermore a
renewed Register of Members’ Interests has been established. The Register of Members’ Interests and copies of the new Code of Conduct are available for inspection by
members of the public at the Council offices, The Grange, Nutholt Lane, Ely between the hours of 8.45am to 5.00pm Monday to Thursday and 8.45am to 4.30pm Friday.
John Hill, Chief Executive, East Cambridgeshire District Council.
summer 2008 east cambridgeshire magazine
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feature Oliver Cromwell’s House
Dressing-up games... it is not just adults who will appreciate a visit to Oliver
Cromwell’s House.
A house fit for a
A major refurbishment to Oliver Cromwell’s
House in Ely incorporates state-of-the-art
facilities into this historic building, as Simon
Cobby found out
magine how the course of
history would have changed if
Oliver Cromwell had been king.
In all but name he was. From
1649 to 1653 he effectively led
England after concluding that
Parliament, which was running the
country at the time, wasn’t doing a
very good job.
But more importantly, imagine
how much more famous Oliver
Cromwell’s House in Ely would now
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be. Cromwell lived in the house in
St Mary Street between 1636 and
1647, having inherited control of
several properties in Ely from his
uncle – as well as his uncle’s job as
tithe collector for Ely Cathedral.
As a result, his income would
have been between £300 and
£400 a year – a huge amount at
the time and one which would
have put him within the ranks of
the gentry.
east cambridgeshire magazine summer 2008
king
As it is, the house – which
incorporates the city’s Tourist
Information Centre – welcomes
thousands of visitors a year. But a
recent refurbishment has brought it
right into the 21st century, with
state-of-the-art facilities to make
the Cromwell experience even
more memorable for visitors.
The refurbishment, which was
completed in March, was the most
extensive the house has undergone
in the last 15 years, according to
the District Council’s tourism team
leader Tracey Harding: “Visitor
numbers had started to stagnate so
it was time for a makeover. More
than 100,000 people a year visit the
Tourist Information Office, but only
10 or 12 per cent of those stay in
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the building and take a tour of the
house. We wanted to change that.
We want to make it an attraction
that tourists and local people will
want to look around as part of their
visit to Ely and the Tourist
Information Centre.
“The makeover has been
considerable. The house was
decorated throughout, a new fire
alarm system was installed and the
electrics were renewed. The shop at
the front of the house was refitted
and new audio handsets – used
extensively in other properties open
to the public throughout the world
– have been introduced. Some of
the rooms were reorganised and
one has now been set aside for
functions. Visitors to the house are
now greeted with a scene-setting
film at the start of their tour.”
This all adds up to a pretty
impressive monument to a man
famous for his Puritanism and
deeply-held religious beliefs.
As Tracey explains, Cromwell
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“Visitors to
the house are
now greeted
with a scenesetting film”
believed that everybody should lead
their lives according to what was
written in the Bible.
“The word Puritan means that
followers had a pure soul and lived
a good life. Cromwell believed that
everybody else in England should
follow his example.
One of the main beliefs of the
Puritans was that if you worked
hard, you would go to heaven.
“Pointless enjoyment was
frowned upon. Cromwell shut
many inns and the theatres were all
closed down. Most sports were
banned. Boys caught playing
football on a Sunday could be
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Oliver Cromwell’s House – a room-by-room guide
The parlour – a dimly-lit, atmospheric
room, panelled with original 17th century
oak where visitors can watch an
introductory film. This sets the scene in
1636 when the Cromwell family came to
live in the house.
out over St Mary’s Church. An eel dish is
being prepared at one end of the table,
while at the other, dishes are ready to be
taken into the dining room.
Oliver Cromwell, provide general
information about the causes of the Civil
War. Exhibits include pieces of armour,
weapons and a soldier’s field kit.
The cold larder – a cold room in the
days before fridges, where food such as
fish and meat was kept on marble
shelves.
Mrs Cromwell’s room – this room
shows how the Cromwell family would
have spent their leisure time. Mrs
Cromwell is seen working on her
embroidery, while rocking the baby in the
cradle at her feet.
The study – here visitors see the figure
of Cromwell writing at his desk, perhaps
reflecting on his responsibilities as Lord
Protector.
The kitchen – Mrs Cromwell’s kitchen is
a bright and cheerful room which looks
The Civil War room – panels in this
room, dominated by a large portrait of
The haunted bedroom – in here the
deathbed scene of Cromwell is portrayed,
while the commentary tells the story of
Cromwell’s death and subsequent
exhumation and decapitation. The story
of his head and its burial in Sidney Sussex
College in 1960 is graphically told.
Gallery corridor – the doorway is 13th
century and originally an external door to
the house. The small painting at the
bottom of the stairs is a Victorian study of
the remains of Cromwell’s Tithe Barn.
Mrs Cromwel’s Room
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Tithe office – this room, with some of its
original 17th century oak panelling, is
where Cromwell would have overseen the
locals bringing corn and other produce in
order to pay for their tithes or taxes.This is
now the function room and is used for
events, activities, displays and meetings.
whipped. Swearing was punished
by a fine, though persistent
offenders could be sent to prison.
Sunday became a very special day
under the Puritans. Most forms of
work were banned. Women caught
doing unnecessary work could be
put in the stocks, while simply
going for a Sunday walk – unless it
was to church – could lead to a
hefty fine. All a far cry from the Ely
we see today.
“Cromwell’s presence is not only
felt in Ely, but across
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“It has been a
real challenge to
introduce new
attractions to
the property”
Cambridgeshire. He or his family
have lived in some of the county’s
grandest houses. His grandfather,
Sir Henry Cromwell, owned
Hinchingbrooke House in
Huntingdon (now Hinchingbrooke
School), where he is said to have
entertained Queen Elizabeth I,
James I and Prince Charles Stewart.
Sir Henry’s second son Robert,
who was MP for Huntingdon,
married Elizabeth Steward of
Stuntney Hall near Ely. They were
the parents of Oliver.
Ramsey Abbey (now Abbey
College) was the home of Oliver
Cromwell’s uncle Sir Oliver.”
Tracey explains that the
Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon
is housed in the former Grammar
School attended by the young
Oliver Cromwell. The museum –
owned by Cambridgeshire County
Council – is devoted to him and is
the only one of its kind in the
country.
The year 2008 marks the 350th
anniversary of the death of Oliver
Cromwell on 3 September 1658.
“When Cromwell died he was
the Lord Protector, the head of a
British Republic. The ceremonial
proceedings after his death were
closely modelled on those for King
James 1st, over 30 years earlier. In
the weeks leading up to the
anniversary we will be holding a
number of events based in and
around the house so it makes it an
even better time to refurbish the
home.
“I am delighted with the new
look as it has been a real challenge
to introduce new attractions to the
property while still complementing
its period features, especially as we
open seven days a week, 362 days
a year.
“So next time you pass by the
house, please pop in and we’ll be
delighted to see you.”■
Opening times and
admission prices
Open all year except 25 and 26
December and 1 January
Summer Hours
1 April to 31 October
10am to 5pm daily, including
Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays.
Winter Hours
1 November to 31 March
11am to 4pm Monday to Friday and
Sundays, 10am to 5pm Saturdays
Admission Prices
Adult: £4.30
Concession: £3.85
Child: £3.00
Family: £12.50
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feature new recycling centre
Recycling centre
marks new era for
waste management
The Grunty Fen Recycling Centre will shortly be coming
to the end of its working life, after many years of
recycling the things people no longer want. So how will
residents in the district recycle their bulky waste in the
future? Tony Taylorson went to find out
have learnt as I have got older that visiting
the local recycling centre becomes part of
your normal adult life.
You stack up your car and trundle down to
Grunty Fen to recycle an old tree, some plastic
bottles and a bit of rubble. In fact, anything you
care to mention can be left there to be put to
some good use.
But all good things come to an end and the
Grunty Fen Recycling Centre will be closing its
doors in 2009. So where will you go after that
to get rid of your unwanted rubbish?
According to Simon Lacey, from the Waste
Team at Cambridgeshire County Council, the
future for recycling in the district is going to be
very exciting.
“We are just about to unveil our plans for a
new Recycling Centre, which will completely
revolutionise the way we handle household
recycling in East Cambridgeshire. Grunty Fen
has served the district really well but it is an oldstyle site, which is no longer big enough,
considering all the growth there has been in the
area.
“After assessing a number of different sites,
the preferred location for the new centre is just
outside Witchford, on the A142. Everything will
be totally different from what you currently see
at Grunty Fen.
“The centre will be indoors, there will be
longer opening hours and controls over litter,
light, dust and smells coming from the building.
This centre will be the first one we build from
scratch, so we will have the chance to address
many of the issues residents find difficult with
our existing sites.
“For example, the new recycling centre will
be split-level. This means no lifting heavy items
up a flight of steps – and we will design the site
so it is easy for skips to be removed without
having to close the site – a major problem at
Grunty Fen.”
One aspect that will be key to the successful
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development of the new centre is engaging
with the public, as Simon readily recognises.
“It would be foolish to come up with a
building that is completely out of character with
the area. We are committed to working with
the local community to understand their
aspirations for the future of their village and
therefore the site. We want to create a
sustainable building that will be fit for purpose
well into the future.
“Throughout the design process, we will
work hard to make sure that we create an
unobtrusive building that is in harmony with the
landscape. For example, the centre will be set
back from the road, be screened with
landscaping, and may even have a turfed roof.
The proposed site should also mean far less
traffic going through Witchford as cars with
trailers will use the A142 instead of the village’s
lanes.”
Over the summer the waste management
team will be holding a series of events to
explain how plans have progressed from open
days to market stalls. This will allow the public
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feature new recycling centre
“We could have one of the most advanced sites
in the country – in waste management
terms it doesn’t get more exciting than that”
to feed into the process before the planning
application is made in the autumn.
As Simon concludes: “I think everyone agrees
that improving the way we all recycle is key to
securing a better world for generations to
come. This new centre will play a central role in
this important work.
“The plan for the rest of the county is to build
more of these centres closer to urban areas to
reduce the amount of travelling people have to
do to recycle. So instead of driving a long
distance with your waste, we want to
encourage shorter trips, or even popping into
your local recycling centre on your way to the
shops or returning from work. With increasing
fuel costs, this makes increasing sense.
“The recycling experience is set to change
and we want to make sure it is the best it can
possibly be. But we can only do this with public
support. In a very short time we could have one
of the most technologically advanced sites in
the country – in waste management terms it
doesn’t get more exciting than that.” ■
● If you want to view the proposals for a new
recycling centre at Witchford, log on at
www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/environment/
waste and follow the links.
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feature conservation areas
Past modern
Just because you live in a conservation area, it doesn't
mean your property has to remain rooted in the past.
Tony Taylorson finds innovation can create homes that
enhance the area they inhabit
o you live in your self-proclaimed castle, but
something is missing. You look at your
home and of course you love it, but
something is not quite right. Is it the space, the
windows or even the letterbox? It’s definitely one
of them but what if to put it right means going
through the complex and nightmarish world of
building in a conservation area?
This is a world where you assume nothing will
be easy; it will be complicated, long, drawn-out
and come the end of it, you will be left with
something that may be functional, but wasn’t
really what you wanted.
To the great surprise of many, it doesn’t have
to be like this. Throughout East Cambridgeshire’s 29 conservation areas, there are examples
of where, with a bit of innovative thinking and
S
discussion, people have come up with designs to
rival any TV property development show.
Take Rob Assheton, for example. He lives in
Burwell and had the dilemma of how to extend
his cottage to take into account his growing
family.
“It was obvious that our home wasn’t big
enough for us anymore, but we didn’t want to
move from where we were happy. We needed
an extension, but when we were told our
original ideas would dwarf our existing home
and we were unlikely to get permission, we
knew we had to think a bit differently.
“So with our architect, Graham Waterhouse,
we looked closely at what was possible. My wife,
Sarah, and I have always found ecological
designs more interesting, and had an idea it
might be fun to build an earth-sheltered home
on a hillside one day, but it hadn’t occurred to us
it could work well on the edge of the fens. So,
when Graham suggested an earth-sheltered
extension, we were both really keen. It seemed
like a great way to satisfy the constraints of the
conservation area while getting a really
interesting end result.
“As well as looking good, there are benefits of
building like this in terms of energy efficiency.
The earth surrounding the building acts as a
thermal store. A bit like the sea, the temperature
of the ground lags behind the temperature of
the air. This means in the winter, it has retained
the heat of the autumn so requires less energy to
heat it, while in the summer, it still holds onto
the coolness of the spring. The technical term is
‘thermal flywheel,’ but it effectively means we
will be able to maintain a given temperature
with less energy.
“One of the reasons we love living here is that
we have great neighbours around us so it was
important that our extension should be a good
thing for them, too. If we had simply followed
the obvious route of extending the same profile
backwards from the road, it would have
Before
After
Rob Assheton’s home in a conservation area in Burwell before the renovations... and how it will look when finished
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“A conservation area is an area of special
architectural or historic interest, the
character or appearance of which it is
desirable to preserve or enhance”
The plans for
the ‘green’
extension.
Neighbours are
excited about
living next to
such an
interesting
property.
overshadowed our neighbours to the north and
made their home a lot darker, as their windows
are not far from our boundary.
“This is the main reason why our design sinks
partly into the ground, giving a finished height
less than half that of the existing cottage. We’re
really pleased that their response to the design
we showed them was that they are ‘very excited
by the prospect of having such a totally cool
house next door.’ Our neighbours to the other
side have helped us out during the build, too.
Everyone around us has been very supportive,
and this really makes the whole process so much
more enjoyable.
“We are about a third of the way through the
build at the moment, but I don’t want to set a
finish date because then we can’t be late! Once
it’s done it will be a really lovely place to live with
our family.”
Rosie Burton, Conservation Officer at East
Cambridgeshire District Council, agrees that
building in a conservation area more often than
not encourages innovation. “Conservation areas
are all about managing change, ensuring we do
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Conservation area grants
Lionel March sits in the new
extension with his wife
“An earth-sheltered design seemed like a great
way to satisfy the constraints of the conservation
area while getting a really interesting end result”
not repeat some of the mistakes that were made
in the 1970s and 80s. Back then, buildings
received permission which seemed to have no
relevance to the place they were built. What we
are now trying to do is restore some balance,
giving some individuality back to distinguish
towns and villages from each other.
“The dictionary definition of a conservation
area is: ‘an area of special architectural or historic
interest, the character or appearance of which it
is desirable to preserve or enhance,’ which I like
to think is really important in a district like East
Cambridgeshire. We have so much heritage
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here, it is important to protect it but we also
must be flexible to understand people’s needs.
“Planning officers we are always keen to help
and advise about changes to buildings because
for many this will be their one and only venture
into planning. From the outside it can seem a
very daunting procedure, but talking it though
with us and a good architect means you know
what you can achieve from the start. For
example, when people understand a three storey
extension on a one-and-half storey cottage is not
appropriate, they look for other suitable and
often innovative solutions.
East Cambridgeshire District Council is keen to help
the repair of buildings in conservation areas and is
one of the few remaining authorities that run a
conservation area grant system.
Basically, if you’re an owner of a building in a
conservation area, which needs renovation, you can
apply for funds via a points system. Applicants need to
provide at least two quotes based on identical
specifications.
Any grant likely to be over £5,000 would go to
Planning Committee for their decision and it is likely
to be offered on a loan basis. The Loan is interest free
and need not be repaid until the property is sold.
However, it is attached like a loan to the property at
the land registry, so when the property is sold the loan
is automatically repaid by the solicitor.
Councillors are keen to assist with the protection of
the historic built environment through grants. Most
are small so the money is spread as far as it can be.
The forms are available from the East
Cambridgeshire website www.eastcambs.gov.uk or by
contacting Rosie Burton on 01353 665555.
“Like Rob Assheton, I cannot stress how
important it is to speak to your neighbours
ahead of submitting a planning application. No
one likes shocks or surprises so if you explain to
them what your plans are, they can feel part of
process.”
Lionel March, from Stretham, can back up
Rosie’s comments about the importance of
speaking to officers from the time when he and
his wife came to build his extension.
He said: “By speaking to officers at the
beginning of the process, I believe the
application became very straightforward. We
had just returned from living in a large house in
Los Angeles, where we had plenty of space for
our books and furniture, to a cottage which had
been in my wife’s family for more than 30 years.
Following a spot of renovation to the old
building, it became clear we needed more space
if we hoped to get all our things in.
“We withdrew our first plans for the extension
as, following a meeting with planning officers,
they told us – and quite rightly so – that we
should make the proposed building smaller. So
we rethought our designs for the library and
another bedroom to fit in with this.
“I have always admired the way homes in
Germany embrace greener architecture so I was
keen to try and develop some environmentally
friendly aspects to the cottage. Given the
building is in a conservation area, I thought this
was only right. So as well as a green roof, which
is landscaped with sedum, we also included a
timber structure and solar water heaters.
“We have now been living in the new
extension for two years, and it has both allowed
us to keep all our books and given us a room for
visitors to stay. We also have a smaller garden,
but to be honest when you get to my age that is
a blessing as it is easier for us to potter around
in.
“This whole process has been really
worthwhile and as I said at the start, if you need
help go and get the advice of the experts. They
can ensure you develop what you actually
need.” ■
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focus noise pollution
Turning it down
If something goes boom, bang, buzz,
bark, beat or generally disturbs your
peace, what can you do about it? Well,
you can call your local district council, as
Glenn Thwaites finds out
he rapid development of East
Cambridgeshire – in both its
housing and economy – has
brought with it many challenges.
One of these is excessive noise,
which can have a real impact on
someone’s life, especially if it is
loud and constant. But there are
things which can be done.
The District Council Domestic
Pollution Team consists of seven
officers who are experts in dealing
with a wide range of domestic
issues such as housing disrepair to
odour and noise disputes
between those people who want
a quiet life and those whose
T
Top tips for a quiet life
● Warn neighbours of any events you
are organising;
● Avoid excessive noise at all times;
● Reduce the volume level as the
evening progresses;
● If you are going away, leave contact
details with a neighbour and,
whenever possible, also leave a key;
● Generally be a good neighbour and
treat others as you would want them
to treat you; and
● Respect other people’s opinions
and accept that different people have
difference tolerance levels to noise
and disturbance.
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lifestyles or businesses are a little
more noisy.
Karen See, who leads the team,
explains how the department
works: “We deal with everything
from complaints about barking
dogs to booming car stereos,
noisy neighbours and
malfunctioning smoke and
burglar alarms. There are also
often issues raised by new
housing developments built near
existing industrial sites.
“We have found that the key is
to deal with potential problems
before they even happen. For
example, we have two huge
music events coming up this
summer – the Ely Folk Festival and
Danceisland. The only way to
make sure they run smoothly is to
work closely with the organiser of
the events.
“We have held regular
meetings with all parties – from
the organisers to the police and
local residents – to agree a
number of conditions that include
noise. We have agreed to monitor
these events closely to ensure the
levels we have decided on are
stuck to and do not cause
unnecessary disturbance to
people in the area.
On the domestic front,
excessive noise can make life a
misery. Noisy neighbours, noise
from industry or construction sites
and barking dogs are just a few of
the problems that crop up.
The rapid growth in house
building has brought many more
people living closer together. So
barbecues, birthday parties and
other celebrations that go on into
the night can upset people if
people aren’t considerate.
As Vinnie Jathoul explains:
“When we receive a complaint,
we do our best to resolve the
issue informally and mediate
between the two parties. But
sometimes things cannot be
resolved easily, so a range of
“Deal with
potential
problems before
they happen”
legislation can be brought into
force to deal with the issue.
“There are a variety of Acts
which we can use. These provide
a range of weapons that can be
brought to bear on those
responsible for unacceptable
levels of noise or disturbance.
“For example, pubs and clubs
that exceed agreed noise levels at
night can be hit with an instant
£500 fixed penalty notice, and
drivers who like to entertain the
world with their car stereo
systems can also be required to
quieten down.
“We also help businesses to
avoid problems. We are here to
give advice to any firms that are
considering changing their
working practices or hours of
business, and regular liaison
meetings are held with local
businesses.”
These liaison meetings also
involve a range of interested
parties, such as local people,
parish and district councillors. The
meetings are chaired by an
independent person and are
designed to resolve any potential
areas of conflict in advance.
But, as Claire Braybrook
explains, a district council can act
swiftly when it has to: “Ultimately
we have the power to obtain a
warrant to enter a property and
deal with the source of the noise
– but this is not an action which is
taken lightly and the decision to
enter a property could leave the
owner with a hefty bill.
“Just a few weeks ago, we
were told about a smoke alarm
that was disturbing the
neighbours of a three-storey
terraced house.
“A fault had developed, which
meant the alarm was sounding
continuously. We tried to find the
ECDCsum08 pp14-15
27/6/08
15:02
home owners, but they were
away for the weekend so
unfortunately it proved fruitless.
The neighbours couldn’t even
expect some respite when the
smoke alarm batteries were
exhausted, as they were mains
powered.
“So we obtained an entry
warrant and, accompanied by a
police officer, a locksmith and an
engineer to fix the alarms, we
went into the house to deal with
the problem. We then charged
the homeowners for all the work.
Page 15
Although this is an extreme
example, it does show what we
can do to deal with noise
problems, although thankfully
most issues are settled much more
easily.”
The message from the East
Cambridgeshire District Council
team is clear: ‘Don’t suffer in
silence: we are here to help.’■
● The team can be contacted
during normal office hours or via
the Council’s out of hour’s
emergency number (07710
978900).
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ECDCsum08 pp16-19
27/6/08
15:03
Page 16
feature sport for youngsters
Star-searching
There are hundreds of sporting clubs based
in the District – from bowling to football to
athletics – which are all looking for new
members. But how many realise there is a
vast pool of untapped talent on their
doorstep? Tony Taylorson finds out where
clubs can go to find the next superstars
chools – to me they are the
key to the future survival of
sporting clubs in the
District. I am always amazed that
they are not inundated with
requests from people wanting to
show why their sport is the best.”
So says Tom Hickson, Sports
Development Officer at East
Cambridgeshire District Council as
“S
he explains why he is working to
bring schools and clubs closer
together.
“We have more than 25 schools
in East Cambridgeshire which have
thousands of children keen to find
some sport or leisure activity that is
right for them. They are not
necessarily looking to become
world champions, but they are
looking for something they can
enjoy. I have always thought clubs
should be hammering down their
doors to get access to such a well of
talent and, let’s face it, membership.
“This is why we are now
working with schools and clubs to
make them aware of the benefits of
mutual cooperation. Every school in
the District is working towards
government targets to offer five
hours of sport and physical activity
in a week, so linking to local clubs
can really help to reach this goal.
“To be fair I don’t think anyone,
until very recently, understood how
Fencing for the future
Gerry Doe, who is in the process of
setting up a new fencing club in East
Cambridgeshire, agrees the key to
success for a coach is to convey your
enthusiasm to the youngsters.
“Fencing can be very complex but I
learnt a few years ago that, to get
beginners into the sport, you have to
keep it simple. Following the example of
a master of the art, I say to people
during taster sessions that there are only
four moves to remember: straight, over,
under and twiddle.
“The value of getting into schools is
that you can expose people to a sport
which they wouldn’t normally play.
Teaching children is great because if you
can get them interested, then you can
begin to programme into their muscles
16
the moves for them to use in the future.
“I have found that the key is to give
people praise and encouragement.
Everyone reacts well to positive
comments – it is human nature. So when
I see someone has made their best effort
in an area, I congratulate them and then
we move onto another technique. That is
the way to get people to relax and
ensure they retain their interest enough
to come and join a club.
“For minority sports, good school and
sport club links are vital. We are not as
privileged as some areas in the country
where a lot of money is spent honing
future generations but I have learnt that
money isn’t everything and by
simplifying things, people can find a love
for any new sport.”
Thousands of East Cambridgeshire
children are keen to find sporting activity.
“Times have changed and, to be
honest, not many people bother to
read notice boards anymore”
schools and sporting clubs could
link up effectively. I see it as being
really important that we get this
moving now before it is too late.”
One of the people which Tom is
working with is Di Baker at
Witchford School Partnership. It is
her job to act as a bridge between
the sporting clubs and the schools,
establishing links and making sure
all the basic checks are done.
“In the past I think many
sporting clubs thought it was
enough just to put a poster up at
the local leisure centre to tell people
about when they held their weekly
meeting. But times have changed
and this is possibly not the most
effective way of communicating
information. So in order to find new
recruits for their clubs, they have to
think smarter which is where we
come in..
“To help them along, we are
actively speaking to groups and
clubs, explaining to them that I am
here as a link from school to club.
One of my roles is to sort out the
paper work, ensure the basic things
like criminal record, insurance and
ECDCsum08 pp16-19
27/6/08
15:03
Page 17
Community spirit is as
important as fitness and activity.
first aid checks have been done. We
then advertise to all the schools in
that area. Schools are then able to
contact the clubs direct and arrange
taster sessions, assemblies etc. From
there we can develop more formal
links and get people involved in
which ever sport it is.
“While we aim to create fit and
active children through this
programme, we also want to bring
a sense of community spirit to the
clubs. For example, not everyone is
driven to be the best at a sport but
they may want to participate in
other areas like volunteering or
becoming officials. Sport is such a
good way to make this possible.”
For those who teach sport every
day, like Sarah Denney at Witchford
Village College, these club links and
taster sessions can be invaluable for
introducing new sports to young
people – but only if they are done
right.
“The taster sessions are a great
ECDCsum08 pp16-19
27/6/08
15:03
Page 18
feature sport for youngsters
“Children and young people
want to learn things and be
inspired by high-quality coaches”
way to bring a new sport into a
school, because if they are done
well they can offer a brief snapshot
of all that is great about the sport.
Children and young people want to
learn things and be inspired by
high-quality coaches. But they are
no fools either. If people who come
in don’t catch their imagination,
then they will switch off.
“There are so many sports that
should be competing for young
people’s attention, from the big
guns like football and hockey, to the
more minority sports like archery
and fencing. This puts the onus on
people to come in and put their
club on the map.
“Sports clubs, if they are to
attract young people, must be
smarter as children no longer go
out looking for clubs. To be fair, I
think people are beginning to get
the message, especially in the minor
sports that need members to
sustain their clubs.
“From my own experience, I have
seen how young people are keen to
be taught by different coaches, as it
turns a PE lesson into an event. The
key is to be enthusiastic, adaptable
and really know what you are
doing. In that way you can ensure
children will go away feeling they
have learnt something and more
importantly want to learn more.”
Perhaps the final word should go
back to Tom Hickson: “In an ideal
world, I would like to see schools
promoting sports clubs through lots
of taster sessions and then for more
children to take up an extracurricular activity. What is exciting is
that this isn’t a long-term goal that
could take years to achieve. With
the right will and commitment from
all sides it is not out of the question
that we could have this set up in a
matter of months. Now that would
be something to celebrate.”■
● For further information contact
Tom Hickson on 01353 665555
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Sports clubs need to be smarter to attract children.
ECDCsum08 pp16-19
27/6/08
15:03
Page 19
19
ECDCsum08 pp20-21 Photo
27/6/08
15:04
Page 20
photo focus strawberry growing
20
ECDCsum08 pp20-21 Photo
2/7/08
11:38
Page 21
photo focus strawberry growing
Strawberry fields forever?
Strawberries and cream are one of our
favourite desserts, blending perfectly with a
hot summer’s day. And Cambridgeshire has a
long tradition of responding to the nation’s
desire for this luxurious fruit.
Frasers of Little Downham and John Quince
of Isleham are two farms that are keeping up
the tradition. “Warm nights and a dry spell
just before ripening are the best conditions
for strawberries,” explains John (pictured
below), who has been growing them since
1986. “People are still keen to discover the
fun of Pick-your-own and the children
absolutely love it. It makes a great day out”.
Low-priced strawberry pulp from Bulgaria
and its neighbours – imported by the major
jam manufacturers – almost destroyed the
Cambridgeshire industry in the 1970s. Many
farmers could not produce their fruit
competitively, and switched to other crops.
It’s now making a comeback, however,
thanks to luxurious varieties such as
Symphony and Cambridge Favourite. “There
is no substitute for freshly-picked fruit,”
continues John. “You can get them from the
supermarkets, but very often they have been
driven hundreds of miles to get there, and
once they’ve been refrigerated, they lose
their original flavour.”
Photographer: Geoff Durrant
21
ECDCsum08 pp22-24 days out
27/6/08
15:07
Page 22
feature days out
A summer of fun
Dates for your diary
Ely & District
Horticultural Society
Show
The Summer Horticultural Show
will be held at the Paradise
Sports Hall,
Newnham Street,
Ely. Gardeners
from around the
district come to
enter their prized
specimens in
hotly contested
competitions.
The show
starts after
judging has
completed at
12 noon and
runs through
until 5pm.
On Sunday
the show
22
will run from 10am until 5pm.
Admission £2 for adults and
there is no charge for
accompanied children.
23-24 August
World Pea-Shooting
Championship
In 1971, residents of Witcham
were trying to raise funds for their
Village Hall. Local headmaster
John Tyson had the idea to harness
his pupil's penchant for peashooting.
The community organised a
pea-shooting challenge during the
Village Fair. The event was a huge
success. Over the years, it has
grown into the World PeaShooting Championship,
attracting competitors from
around the globe.
Competition is fierce and peashooters have travelled from the
United States, Europe and New
Zealand to challenge locals in a
contest to hit the bull’s eye with a
pea.
Contestants shoot a pea
through a tube, 12 feet towards a
12-inch target. Laser-guided
shooters are not unknown, taking
the sport into the 21st century.
July 12 2008 sees the 38th
Championship at the Village Fair
on the Green at 1pm.
(Competition starts at 2pm). The
aim remains to raise funds for the
upkeep of the Village Hall. Entry is
£1(50p for juniors) and peashooters and peas will be on sale
on the day. 12 July
27/6/08
15:07
Page 23
feature days out
Soham Pumpkin Fair
Soham Pumpkin Fair is an annual
event, open to all-comers, and
held every September in the
recreation ground.
A festival of size, it measures a
gardeners’ skill and patience. With
a variety of classes for pumpkins,
sunflowers and outsize vegetables,
there are prizes for all, including
special sections for junior
members of the community.
Categories include:
Heaviest Pumpkin
Grown in East Anglia;
Tallest Sunflower
Grown by a Child; and
Longest Runner Bean.
It has become a
local tradition to issue
every child in the
town with a
pumpkin and
sunflower seed to
grow especially for
the fair – some
enjoy amazing
success.
There is a range
of traditional
stalls, a car boot sale,
funfair, vintage cars and tractors,
plus children's amusements,
including performances by Soham
Fenlander Majorette Troupe and
Zak the Clown. Mr Pumpkin will
also be making a special visit.
Admission is £1 for Adults, 50p
for Senior Citizens and Children
over 12, Children Under 12 get in
free. The show opens at 1.30pm
and closes at 5pm.
Exhibits are on show
throughout.
27 September
Littleport Show
One of the highlights of the year
in the Cambridgeshire calendar is
the Littleport Show, which draws
visitors from outside the county as
well as thousands nearer home.
The show is famous for its
displays of heavy horses, and
other features include show
jumping, sports, stalls, food and a
licensed bar.
All are welcome for a fun
family day out at one of
Cambridgeshire's oldest country
shows.
26 July
23
27/6/08
15:07
Page 24
feature days out
Win!
Haddenham Steam
Engine Rally
The 35th Haddenham Steam Rally
and Show is a nostalgic weekend
for all with over 500 exhibits from
a bygone age. There are steam,
horse and tractor working
demonstrations, including
ploughing, threshing and wood
sawing.
There will also be an old-time
fair; fire & rescue, sub aqua &
marine model displays; as well as
Ken Fox's World Famous Wall of
Death Show. Visitors will also be
able to experience Graham
Atkinson's Famous Showman's
Engine "Iron Maiden" with the
Oktoberfest Organ & Stage Show.
6-7 September
Calling all rock
fans… here’s your
chance to win tickets
to Cambridge Rock
Festival at Wood
Green Animal Shelter,
Godmanchester, from
17-20 July 2008.
With more than 70
bands playing the
festival, and more than
70 beers and ciders to
try, as well as an array
of craft stalls and a record fair,
there’s plenty to keep everyone
entertained at the 52-acre site.
Plus, there’s no chance of
going hungry with everything
from savoury crepes to Turkish
mezze on offer.
Rock and blues are the order
of the weekend, but a variety of
genres will be showcased, all
with superb hi-fi quality sound,
and accompanied by spectacular
lighting. Catch the likes of Led
Zep Too, The Pure Floyd Show
and Mostly Autumn (pictured).
Two lucky winners will each
Friday 18th July
Friday 25th July
UB40
with special guest
Maxi Priest
Friday 1st Aug
Friday 8th Aug
Friday 15th Aug
24
receive a pair of tickets to the full
festival, worth £178. We’re also
giving away 10 pairs of Friday
night tickets, worth £50 a pair
and 25 pairs of Thursday night
tickets, worth £20 a pair.
How to enter: Simply visit
www.cambridgerockfestival.co.u
k and register to join our email
list (and receive our regular
eNewsletter) before 14 July
2008, entering ‘East Cambs’ in
the ‘state/region’ field.
Children are welcome, but
under-16s must be accompanied
by an adult at all times.
ECDCsum08 pp25 events
27/6/08
15:41
Page 25
diary
More at www.eastcambs.gov.uk/tourism
July
Location
Time
11
EOSA Club, Ely
3 days
Event
Ely Folk Festival (www.elyfolk.co.uk)
12
Jubilee Gardens, Ely
14.30-16.30
Free Live Music: Generationz
Ely Cathedral
19.30 onwards
Concert: Natalie Clein
Witcham Village Hall
All Day Event
World Pea Shooting Championship
13
Wicken Fen
14.00-16.00
Fen Flora Walk
19
Wicken Fen
10.00-17.00
Working Fen Weekend
20
Denny Abbey, Waterbeach
12.00-17.00
Archaeology Discovery Day
25
Wicken Fen
11.00-14.00
Pond Dipping
Jubilee Garden, Ely
14.30-16.30
Free Live Music: White Winos
Littleport Village Hall
All day event
Littleport Show
27
Engine Museum, Prickwillow
All day event
Traditional Crafts and Trades
Wicken Fen
11.00-14.00
Minibeast Hunting
31
12.00-16.00
Food and Farming
August Location
Time
Event
1
10.30&14.00
Children’s Activity: Butterfly Flutter By
Wicken Fen
14.30-16.30
Free Live Music: Fenland Jam
Wicken Fen
19.30-21.00
Twilight BBQ & Night Safari with Warden
3
Wicken Fen
6.00-10.00
Birdringing Demonstration
4
Wicken Fen
10.30&14.00
Children’s Activity: Fairies, Pixies & Potions
5
Ely Cathedral
13.10 onwards
Concert: Wellington Cathedral Choir
6
Wicken Fen
10.30&14.00
Children’s Activity: Slimy Slugs & Wiggly
Worms
Ely Cathedral
10.00-11.30
Fun & Crafts for Young Families
8
Wicken Fen
10.30&14.00
Children's Activity: Damsels & Dragons
9
14.30-16.30
Free Live Music: Steve Bingham
Wicken Fen
10.30-12.30
Ponies Galore
11
Wicken Fen
14.00-16.00
Children’s Activity: Wicken Warriors
12
12.00-17.00
Farmland Olympics
Wetland Centre, Welney
14.00-16.00
Children’s Event: Frogs and Toads Party
14.30-16.30
Riverside Concerts: Ely Military Band
Old Stretham Station
14.00-18.00
NGS Gardens Open for Charity
10.00-17.00
Adult Craft Workshop: Plant Dyeing
19
14.00-16.00
Children’s Activity: Minibeast Mayhem
20
Wicken Fen
10.30&14.00
Children’s Activity: Wildlife Detectives
23
Paradise Centre, Ely
All day event
Ely Horticultural Society Show
14.30-16.30
Free Live Music: Riverside Blues Collective
& The Grace Brothers
12.00-17.00
Mediaeval Fun!
Anglesey Abbey, Lode
10.30-17.50
Gardens Scheme Day
30
10.30-17.00
Anglesey’s Finest Hour? (WWII)
31
14.30-16.30
Riverside Concerts: Mississipi Jazz Band
September
Location
Time
3
Oliver Cromwell House, Ely
19.00 onwards
Lecture: Remember Oliver Cromwell
6
Palace Green, Ely
10.00-16.00
Living History Day
10.00-16.00
Adult’s Art Workshop
17
24
Haddenham Village Hall
All day event
Steam Engine Rally
14.30-16.30
Riverside Concerts: Waterbeach Band
11.00-16.00
Wild about Autumn Workshop
10
11.00-16.00
How to Grow Dahlias
13
10.30-17.30
Heritage Open Day
20
Wicken Fen
10.00-16.00
Rush Weaving Workshop
21
Drainage Museum, Prickwillow 11.00-16.00
Model Engineering Day
27
Soham Village Hall
Pumpkin Fair
All day event
whe OFF
spen n you
d
on ga £500
rd
furnit en
ure
GARDEN & LEISURE UPPER FIRST FLOOR
We have the widest selection of - BBQ`s, both Gas & Charcoal,
we supply Calor gas and regulator. Garden furniture in wood
and metal, in sets or individual bench, chairs, tables, parasol
and other specialist items. Also a selection of garden hoses,
sprinklers and chemicals.
DIY AND TOOLS FIRST FLOOR
Projects around the house - Come and see us for tools, stains,
brushes, scrapers, sandpaper, locks, screws, brass and metal
fittings and of course friendly knowledgeable advice. An
extensive range of bathroom cabinets and fittings - roller,
venetian and blackout blinds.
PAINTS AND LINENS
UPPER GROUND FLOOR
We now stock Farrow and Ball paints
along with our usual high quality range of
paints, stains and decorating equipment.
Linens, bedding, towels and curtains are also on this floor.
Event
7
20%
Local art exhibitions/ongoing events
2 July- 3 August
Anglesey Abbey
Spotlight – Racing
21-31 August
Oliver Cromwell House
Free Children’s Craft Activities
23 July-8 August
Welney Wetland Centre
Wetland Olympics
6-31 August
Anglesey Abbey
Spotlight – The 1st Lord Fairhaven
16-25 August
Ely Cathedral
Art in Wood: Summer Exhibition
3-29 September
Angelsey Abbey
Spotlight – Caring for the House
™
AGA Cookshop
COOKING & TABLEWARE GROUND FLOOR
Looking for anything for the kitchen - pans, pots, stainless steel
cookware and utensils, kitchen gadgets, timers, chopping
boards, trays, cutlery, crockery, glasses, mugs and much more
New Aga cookshop ariving soon
19/21 Forehill,
Ely
Tel. 01353 662881
264 Mill Road,
Cambridge
Tel. 01223 246418
within 50m of Market Square
and Broad Street, Free car park
own free car park opposite
store in Ross Street
www.cutlacks.co.uk
25
ECDCsum08 pp26-27 News
27/6/08
15:50
Page 26
news from east cambs
Maltings closed for repairs
The Maltings, the historic centre
for conferences, exhibitions and
banqueting in Ely, has closed for
six months for essential repairs.
The repair work coincided
with the end of the Council’s
contract with Eliance, who
provided the catering and
exhibition facilities at the venue.
The Council is currently looking
into the various options for the
future of the building, but has
confirmed it will continue to
house a cinema and community
facilities when it reopens.
Get heard!
Want to act as a sounding board for
the tough decisions that affect the
lives of East Cambridgeshire
residents?
The District Council is offering local
people the chance to join a new
register of consultees to give their
views about the decisions and services
made in East Cambridgeshire.
John Hill, Chief Executive at East
Cambridgeshire District Council, said:
“This is a great opportunity for
anyone who lives in East
Cambridgeshire to have their say on
the policies, services and decisions
that we make at the District Council.
We often hear local authorities are
aloof from the public, but with this
scheme we want the public to
become part of our decision-making
process.
To register, log on to
www.eastcambs.gov.uk and fill in the
form. The Council will be in touch
when an issue of interest comes up.
Make sure you don’t miss out!
Milton Park English
& Thai Restaurant
Milton Park Golf Course, Ely Road, Milton,
Cambridge CB24 6DD
Reservations - 01223 864602
For superb Thai, Esan, and English Meals or Snacks
Come out to play in Swaffham Prior!
Swaffham Prior’s play area is the
place to hang out in East
Cambridgeshire – thanks to new
play equipment that has just
arrived.
The new slides and climbing
frames, have been paid for through
the Better Play Profile Project set up
by the District Council. The project
made a successful bid of £200,000
from the Big Lottery Fund and has
since been using the money to
improve play facilities across the
district.
Michelle Burrell, Play & Physical
Activity Co-ordinator at East
Cambridgeshire District Council,
said: “The money the District
Council secured has already made a
real difference to the lives of
children and young people in East
Cambridgeshire. We want to stretch
it as far as possible in order to
provide play equipment and youth
shelters where they are desperately
needed. Our ultimate aim is to keep
our children and young people
active, and we believe the new play
equipment in Swaffham Prior will
do just that.”
Commuter car park hits 100
The Angel Drove car park in Ely is
now being used by more than 100
people a day, far exceeding initial
expectations.
Since the facility on the
Cambridge Business Park opened in
December last year, nearly 6,000
cars have parked in the 205-space
car park.
Councillor John Seaman MBE,
Chairman of the Environment &
Transport Committee, said: “To have
hit the 100-a-day figure so early in
this car park’s life is a real
achievement and a vindication of
our decision to build the facility last
year. We have steadily watched the
figures go up week upon week since
the car park opened and I am
delighted so many people have
decided it is the best and safest
place to leave their car.
“We are also cautiously optimistic
about the current usage of the Parkand-Ride service at Angel Drove. In
the last couple of months, the
Saturday service has regularly made
more than 100 trips... We are
confident we will see more and
more people using this service, too,
as they become aware of its
availability.”
The Park-and-Ride Buses leave
every 15 minutes from 9.30am at
the Tesco bus stop, taking
passengers to the city-centre shops
or visitor attractions, after they have
parked and paid in the new car
park.
Customers can have their
validated tickets reimbursed at either
Oliver Cromwell House for free, or at
a number of participating stores in
the city with a minimum spend.
KITCHEN & RESTAURANT OPENING TIMES
8:30 – 10am (seasonal) English Breakfasts & Snacks
12 – 3pm & 5:30 – 11pm Thai & English Meals
BAR OPENING TIMES
8:30am – 11pm Hot & Cold Drinks, Snacks
The Old Fire Engine House
Restaurant and Gallery
The Old Fire Engine House Restaurant, specialising in
traditional English cooking, fine wines and afternoon teas.
Gallery showing work by leading East Anglian artists.
Monthly exhibitions.
Tim & Anna Richards, who brought you superb Thai and Esan meals
at The Hoops and Golden Elephant, and initially at The Big Buddha,
are now back with their Thai family (Ed, Cattareeya, and Suriyan) to
give you the very best quality meals in the Milton Park Golf Course.
Location – North end of Milton (3rd Right turn on A10 to Ely from
A14 at Cambridge, turn left at first building).
26
Open every day. 10.30am – 10.30pm Mon – Fri
12.15pm – 5.30pm Sun
25 St. Mary’s Street, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4ER
Tel: 01353 662582
ECDCsum08 pp26-27 News
27/6/08
15:50
Page 27
ECDCsum08 pp28-29 Finance.qxd
27/6/08
15:09
Page 28
feature accounts
Spending wisely
So… where is your Council
Tax money going? Here,
we put three council
priorities in the spotlight
A National Lottery grant has
improved play and leisure facilities
in East Cambridgeshire.
Meeting needs in a growing district
Our town planners have identified areas around
the main towns and villages as the best places
to take this growth. They are working closely
with developers to ensure the house designs
are in keeping with the existing buildings and
fenland landscape. During 2006/07, 681 new
houses were built, at an average of 39 for every
hectare of land. In consultation with local
housing associations, 193 of these have been
allocated for affordable housing, to meet the
needs of families that cannot afford market
prices. This is a great achievement against the
local target of building 110 low-cost homes.
We are actively promoting the district for
new retail and other employment
opportunities. More than 22,000 square metres
of new business premises was created in
2006/07. The rate of growth in population and
in businesses is creating many pressures on
local services, especially in the Ely area. The
Council has listened to public concern about
the urgent need for better parking
arrangements in the city. Having carefully
considered the options available, a new pay
and display ‘commuter’ car park near the
station was identified as right for Ely. This
opened in December and has helped to take
pressure off the city-centre car parks, leaving
more space for visitors and shoppers.
Affordable housing targets
have been exceeded.
Listening to the public
Last year we tried out a new Neighbourhood
Panel in the Soham area. This is a meeting of
local parish, district and county councillors –
and other people who know what needs doing
in your area. Four times a year, they hold a
public meeting with the Police, local housing
association and other public services. Members
of the public say what is concerning them, and
the panel agree what are the most important
actions to improve life in the local community.
28
As a result of the first few meetings, the Soham
area has seen more Police speed checks,
resulting in speeding tickets and a drink-driving
prosecution. There has been a clean-up action
day to deal with graffiti, litter and abandoned
vehicles. And increased Police patrols have cut
the number of anti-social behaviour incidents
to just seven in target areas over last summer’s
hol iday period. Because of their success, we
are now providing Neighbourhood Panels in
every area of the district.
Sport and leisure
The Council has been successful in a bid for
£200,000 from the National Lottery to improve
play and leisure facilities for young people.
Recent new projects include an outdoor
meeting area for teenagers in Ely, and new play
areas for Isleham, Stetchworth and Swaffham
Prior. Additionally, we have appointed a Play
Officer who is co-ordinating the introduction of
activity clubs in local primary schools. These
help to ensure that young children have
opportunities to enjoy the benefit of structured
play and physical exercise. The Council’s good
work in this area has been underlined by the
results of a recent survey by Sport England,
which indicated that East Cambridgeshire
residents have good access to sport and leisure
facilities and they are also heavily involved in
volunteering with local sports clubs. With the
London Olympics just around the corner this is
positive news and we are already planning for
an increasing need for leisure opportunities for
all ages, including the possibility of a new
leisure centre. The Council is committed to
listening to the voice of a growing community
and giving you a range of modern services we
can all be proud of.
Statement from the Executive
Director, Finance
The following statement by the Executive Director,
Finance describes some of the key points from the
Council’s stewardship of public funds.
“The Council budgeted to make a small surplus in
2007/08 with a contribution of £116,000 to General
Reserves in line with its medium term financial
strategy. The year-end position produced a
contribution of £46,000 to reserves. The revenue
reserve balance was £1.62 million at 31 March 2008
in line with prudent financial management guidelines.
“The Council’s Statement of Accounts has been
prepared in accordance with the Accounting Code of
Practice. The figures in this summary were originally
compiled having regard to proper accounting practice.
For the purposes of this statement some modifications
were made to provide more meaningful information.
“The Council’s 2007/08 accounts are currently
being audited by an auditor appointed by the Audit
Commission. The auditor is expected to publish his
opinion on the accounts by the end of September
2008.
“A full copy of the Council’s 2007/08 accounts is
available for examination on request. Please
telephone Tony Grzybek (Principal Accountant) on
01353 616269 for more details or to obtain a copy.
Alternatively, visit www.eastcambs.gov.uk where the
full document can be found online.”
Alex Colyer FCCA Executive Director, Finance
The Grange, Nutholt Lane, Ely CB7 4PL
East Cambridgeshire District Council is committed to
openness and transparency in its dealings with
customers subject to the need to preserve
confidentiality as required by relevant legislation.
ECDCsum08 pp28-29 Finance.qxd
2/7/08
11:39
Page 29
feature accounts
Summary of
2007/08 accounts
(*) Distributable reserves comprise the following balances:
General Fund Balance
Surplus for the year
Balance at March 2007
Details of the Council’s spending during 2007/08
including Planning, Economic Development,
Recreation and Tourism, Environmental Health,
Refuse Collection and Recycling and Housing
The cost of Council services
Revenue Account for the year ended 31 March 2008
The Revenue Account presents the costs of running Council services between April 2007
and March 2008 and where the money came from to finance these costs along with the
impact on the Council’s reserves.
Gross Exp Gross Inc
Net Exp
£’000s
£’000s
£’000s
Central services to the public
4,976
4,170
806
Cultural and related services
1,742
252
1,490
Environmental Services
5,029
639
4,390
Planning & Econ Development
3,413
2,005
1,408
Transport
673
73
600
Housing
13,404
12,448
956
Corporate & Democratic Core
2,568
914
1,654
Net Cost of services
31,805
20,501
11,304
Plus: Interest payable
Less: Interest receivable
Less: Appropriations and other internal accounting
Amount to be met from Government grants and local taxpayers
31
(817)
(721)
9,797
Financed by
Revenue support grant
Business Rates
Council Tax
Total Income
Net General Fund (Surplus) for the year
(937)
(5,585)
(3,321)
(9,843)
(46)
General Fund at the end of March 2007
General Fund at the end of March 2008
(1,580)
(1,626)
Income
East Cambridgeshire had a total income in 2007/08 of £9.8 million. Just over two-thirds
of this comes from central government as grants and redistributed business rates. Total
council tax income for East Cambridgeshire accounts for just over a third of total
expenditure. Last year the Council had a surplus of £46,000.
Balance Sheet
What the Council owned and was owed on 31 March 2008
Buildings and Land
Stock
Cash in bank and Investments
Money owed to the Council
Money owed by the Council
Financed by
Non distributable reserves
Distributable reserves (*)
£’000s
14,761
69
10,791
2,293
(14,404)
13,510
9,124
4,386
13,510
46
1,580
Useable capital receipts
Other reserves
1,911
849
4,386
The Council has a duty under legislation to maintain a prudent level of general reserves.
The Council has targeted this level to be around £1.7 million. The balance of £1.63
million is, therefore, slightly lower than this objective.
The Council’s Medium Term Financial Strategy provides for reserves to be brought up to
the target level over the next three years.
Cash Flow
= Cash in bank (at end of March 2007)
+ Cash in
– Cash out
= Cash in bank (at end of March 2008)
£ 7.272 m
£ 76.017 m
£ 72.661 m
£ 10.628 m
How has the finance service performed?
2005/06
Population of the District (Mid year ONS Estimate) 78,500
Households liable to pay council tax
32,871
Band D equivalents
27,000
2006/07
79,600
33,100
27,250
2007/08
81,100
34,340
27,650
Council Tax collected in Year
(English District Council Average)
98.53%
97.90%
97.92%
98.00%
98.45%
n/a
Business rates collected in Year
(English District Council Average)
99.19%
98.79%
99.02%
98.90%
99.40%
n/a
Creditors % of invoices paid within 30 days
(English Average)
97.44%
92.04%
99.33%
93.06
98.43%
n/a
213
208
201
4.64%
4.67%
4.87%
4.99%
5.79%
5.77%
Yes
0
Yes
0
Yes
n/a
Employee numbers
Average rate generated on investments
Average benchmark rate for investments
Financial Management
Annual Accounts prepared on time
Number of Audit Qualifications (*)
(*) The Council’s external auditors are required to give an opinion on the financial statements and this
opinion should be “unqualified”. Where the opinion is qualified, each qualification identifies an area where
the financial statements are unreliable. At the date of production of this summarised statement the
Council’s audit had not been completed and so no opinion was available.
Some statistics for 2007/08 were not available at the date of production of this summarised statement
(marked “n/a”).
Capital expenditure in 2007/08
Capital expenditure generally represents money spent by the Council on purchasing,
upgrading and improving assets such as vehicles and buildings, or giving grants to third
parties for these purposes. The distinction from revenue expenditure is that the Council
or the grant recipient receives the benefit from capital expenditure over a longer period
of time. The Council spent just over £2.2 million during the year financed from Central
Government grants and receipts from the sale of assets.
29
ECDCsum08 pp30-32 Recycling
27/6/08
15:56
Page 30
bin/recycle collection days
RECYCLING
Your fortnightly collection dates
(for all your recyclables)
YELLOW WEEK
The district’s recycling is divided into two weeks – yellow
and blue – with different areas having their recycling
collected every other week. To find out your recycling day,
see the calendars and information below, or visit
www.eastcambs.gov.uk
MON Aldreth, Ditton Green, Dullingham, Haddenham,
Isleham, Prickwillow, Queen Adelaide,
Stetchworth, Woodditton
TUES
WED
Chauffeur Services
• Weddings
• Courier Service
• Airport Transfers
• All at Taxi Rates?
Accounts
• Corporate
01223 890027
lehire@tiscali.co.uk
VERY Competitive Rates
BLUE WEEK
LUCKING
EXECUTIVE HIRE
Ely*
Bottisham, Lode, Longmeadow, Reach,
Stuntney, Swaffham Bulbeck, Swaffham Prior,
Wicken
MON Ashley, Brinkley, Burrough Green, Cheveley,
Chippenham, Fordham, Kennett, Kirtling,
Newmarket, Saxon Street, Snailwell, Upend,
Westley Waterless
TUES
Littleport
WED
Soham*
THUR Burwell, Soham*
FRI
Chettisham, Coveney, Little Downham, Little
Thetford, Stretham, Wentworth, Wilburton,
Witcham, Witchford
So, for example, if you live in Aldreth, which is in the Yellow zone,
you will have a collection on a Monday in a Yellow week, such as 4th August.
YOUR
YO
OUR
R LOCAL
LOC
OCAL
O
CA
CAL
ALL ORGANIC
ORG
OR
RGAN
RGAN
RG
A IC B
ANIC
BOX
OX
X SCHEME
SCH
C EME
CHEM
E E GROWING
EM
GROW
GR
O ING AND
DELIVERING ORGANIC VEGETABLES SINCE 1995
Box Deliveries to Burwell, Exning, Soham, Fordham, Reach,
The Swaffhams, Bottisham, Lode, Commercial End, Stow cum Quy
Contact Paul or Doreen Robinson on 01223 812912
or enquire through Our website:
waterlandorganics.co.uk.
Our own organic eggs and seasonal fruit also available.
30
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
● Always remember: in a bank holiday
week, collection will be one day later.
Ely*, Mepal, Pymoor, Sutton, Wardy Hill
THUR Ely*
FRI
AUGUST 2008
SEPTEMBER
MAY 2008
2008
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
OCTOBER 2008
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
*In the lead-up to the new plastic bottle
recycling collections, the District Council
leafleted households throughout East
Cambridgeshire to explain which days each
household would have its recycling collected.
Please refer to this leaflet if you live in Ely or
Soham to determine which day your
collection will be done. If you have any issues
relating to recycling collections, please call
01353 863864.
2/7/08
11:42
Page 31
bin/recycle collection days
REFUSE
Your weekly collection dates
(black bags)
BANK HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS
Day your black bag
would normally be collected:
Revised
collection day:
Monday 25 August
Tuesday 26 August
Wednesday 27 August
Thursday 28 August
Friday 29 August
Tuesday 26
Wednesday 27
Thursday 28
Friday 29
Saturday 30
Monday ● Aldreth ● Ashley ● Cheveley ● Ely (Broad St and King St area
and old RAF site) ● Fordham ● Haddenham ● Isleham ● Little Downham ●
Little Thetford ● Prickwillow ● Pymoor ● Queen Adelaide (from Prickwillow to
Queen Adelaide Way)
Tuesday ● Chippenham ● Ely (St Mary’s St down to station, Cambridge Rd
and Northfield area) ● Kennett ● Littleport ● Soham (south)
Wednesday ● Coveney ● Ely (High Barns and New Barns) ● Mepal ●
Sutton ● Swaffham Bulbeck ● Wardy Hill ● Witcham ● Soham (centre) ● Soham
Downfields ● Queen Adelaide
Thursday ● Brinkley ● Burrough Green ● Burwell ● Dullingham ● Ely
(Witchford Rd and St John’s Rd areas) ● Reach ● Snailwell ● Stretham ●
Stuntney ● Swaffham Prior ● Wentworth ● Westley Waterless ● Wilburton ●
Soham (north)
Friday ● Bottisham ● Chettisham ● Ely (Columbine Rd and all new
developments in the west of the city) ● Lode ● Long Meadow ● Saxon Street ●
Stetchworth ● Upware ● Wicken ● Witchford
Ely Hypnotherapy
Specialising in the treatment of
Exam Nerves, Confidence Issues,
Stress and Anxiety
Other Treatments Available Inc:
Quit Smoking; Depression;
Weight Management;
Addictions; Grief; Relationship
Issues; and much more!
Rachel Grabham DHP LAPHP
for more information or to
book your 30 minute...
FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION
Tel: 077 6568 4150
www.elyhypnotherapy.com
WANT TO MOVE BUT CANT
AFFORD TO!
WHY NOT EXTEND YOUR
EXISTING HOME!
Anglia Gas &
Electrical Services
GREG SABERTON
DESIGN
Sales-Services- Installation-Repairs
Architectural Design
Consultancy
Professional friendly service, house builds,
extensions,
extensions loft conversions,
conversions conservatories,
conservatories
garages, design and access statements, etc...
From conception to completion, planning and
building regulation approvals at low costs
For free consultation call:
01353 687999
or 07881 902789
or check out our website:
gregsabertondesign.co.uk
Tom’s Hole Barn, Branch Bank, Prickwillow,
Ely, Cambs, CB7 4UR
✔ Boiler/Central Heating Repairs/
Servicing
✔ Domestic Gas Appliances,
Installations/Repairs
✔ Electrical Appliances
Installations/Repairs
✔ Essential Electrical &
Plumbing Repairs/Maintenance
✔ Dual Fuel Appliances Installation/
Repairs
✔ NatGas/LPG Landlord
Safety Checks
✔ Portable Appliance Testing
CONTACT: Jim Perry
PHONE/FAX 01638 741432
MOBILE: 07768856456
THE SHOE
TREE
31 Market St, Ely, CB7 4LZ
Open: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Tel: 01353 667769
• Fully trained, experienced staff
• Wide selection of fittings
available, including half sizesand
narrow/broad fittings
• Child friendly environment
• Ranges from tots to teens
• School shoes specialists
• Smart and casual styles
• Appointments available out of
hours with no obligation to buy
• Famous brands including:
Hush Puppies, Crocs,
Lelli Kelli, Ben Sherman,
Funky Feet, Western Chief,
Merrell,Tip Toey Joey,
Robeez, Geox, Bellamy
EASTERN LANDSCAPE
SERVICE LTD
TREE SURGEON
CONTRACTORS
COTTENHAM
(01954) 250338
Mobile: 07831 123533
Fax: (01954) 252559
www.easternlandscapeservice.co.uk
email@easternlandscapeservice.co.uk
27 High Street, Cottenham,
Cambridge CB24 8SA
ESTABLISHED IN 1972
Cambria Farm
Cattery
Holiday
Boarding for
Cats and
Rabbits
ALAN’S
TAXIS
Tel: 01353 688288
www.cambriafarm.co.uk
Cambria Farm, 29
Prickwillow Road,
Isleham, Ely,
Cambs CB7 5RQ
01353 665050
01353 667518
31
27/6/08
15:56
Page 32
Award Winning Designs
Cutting Edge Technology
Ex display kitchen furniture from as little as £2500 + VAT
For more information please ask for details
• Kitchens
• Bathrooms
• Bedrooms
• Full installation and project management
• Italian Style - German Functionality
7 All Saints Road, Newmarket Suffolk
T. 01638 669607
31 Clifton Road Cambridge FREE PARKING
T. 01223 248409
www.bydi.co.uk
(look for details on how to find us)
Open Monday to Friday 9.30 – 5.30
Saturday 9.30 – 5.00

ECDCsum08 pp01 cover.qxd - East Cambridgeshire District Council

Transcription

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