Lowestoft base for Royal Philharmonic

Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. Meet the new Chief Executive Air Festival latest Transformation for footpath Commission reported that we have ‘unsustainably low levels of council tax’ against our ambitions for the district. This Keeping up year council tax rose by 4.9%. We still have the lowest average council tax bills in Suffolk. We face financial pressures placed on the pace of us by central government and we will endeavour to keep the council tax as low as possible. Our commitment is to provide value for money and to make our services improvement as efficient as possible, whilst also Mark Bee. meeting community needs. Waveney is moving majority comes from you, the council Take a look at the following pages that ahead. There is a distinct sense in which it taxpayer. outline what we have achieved, and our has turned the corner and is now making We have now received the results of the planned improvements for the future. Our great progress. We have set out in this ‘Listening To You’ survey sent to every challenge is to keep up the pace of newsletter some of what is currently going household in Waveney. You have told us improvement and constantly look at new on. that you want us to continue to make and better ways in which to work. I think One major change is the arrival of our Waveney a clean and safe place to live you’ll agree that we are heading in the new Chief Executive, Glen Garrod, who and work, and want us to renew our right direction to becoming a good council took up his position on March 29th. We efforts in regenerating the area. However, that provides good services. welcome Glen and wish him well. we have a careful balancing act to make. Waveney District Council is going We are committed to using the information You can find more information about our through a period of significant change to you have provided to us in identifying our performance on our website ensure improvement - both to services to priorities, but we will not be able to do www.waveney.gov.uk local people and the way the organisation everything we would like to do and we is run. To do that we need to provide have some difficult choices to make. good, high-quality services. Some money Our recent Comprehensive Performance Mark Bee comes from the Government, but the Assessment undertaken by the Audit Leader, Waveney District Council New Chief Executive looks to Glen Garrod has development.” University College North Wales, followed officially taken over at the helm as And although it’s early days he can by a Master of Science in Pure Research Waveney’s new Chief Executive - and is already point towards three steps which at Edinburgh University and an MBA at thoroughly looking forward to meeting the he believes could help Waveney improve Sunderland University. challenges of his new role. on the standards it already offers. “I have a fairly eclectic background,” Glen, 45, arrives in Waveney following “From my perspective, we will need to said Glen. “I have worked in the voluntary a two-year spell as Strategic Director for develop our strategic partnerships as sector, the public sector, and the private Adult and Community Services with the these will be part of our core business for sector, as well as in academia, both here Isle of Wight Council. many years to come,” said Glen. “The “I felt hugely privileged when I was Council can’t do everything that needs to appointed to be Chief Executive. In the be done on its own - we need close interim I have had further opportunity to partners we can work with for a very long meet the senior management team, the time. Leader and feel a very similar sense of “The second area is to pick up on the encouragement and support to that I performance agenda; to make sure we experienced when I went to the Isle of are clear on our priorities and how well Wight,” said Glen. we are moving towards them. “What do you look for in your first post “The third point is that we need to as Chief Executive? You look for political engage better with people who work support, an able team of senior within the Council - my new colleagues - managers and an enthusiasm to change and with partners, but also and very things and improve on what’s there importantly with the different communities already - and I feel all those factors apply that constitute Waveney. There are gaps - in Waveney. but this is not unique to Waveney and is “In one sense I’m coming in at a time always something you can do better at.” when there’s a lot of disappointment with Born in Shropshire, Glen admits to what the recent Comprehensive having led a nomadic existence in which Performance Assessment Report had to he has accumulated a formidable say about the Council - but there was collection of degree qualifications! After also a recognition of some very good studying Psychology at Leeds University work, for example on economic he took a course in Social Work at Glen Garrod. 2 Footpath transformed into tranquil haven

Cllr. Steve Barrett. An overgrown footpath Cllr Barrett turned to Waveney to carry in Pakefield has been transformed into a out the work - and to provide an tranquil haven for walkers thanks to a ongoing programme of maintenance. the future ground-breaking £5000 project. “The council was chosen as the main The Oiley Fields Footpath - which runs contractor because I knew I’d get good and abroad.” between Blackheath Road and London service and good value for the money However, he is keen that his arrival in Road - had degenerated into an I’d been allowed, and they did an Waveney should signal the start of a eyesore and a potential haunt for admirable job,” he said. rather more settled spell in his life. His criminals. “They planted bluebells along the wife, Sabine, already works as a doctor in But now hedges have been trimmed, footpath, they gave us a defensible Norwich, and gave birth to the couple’s flowers planted, a gate put up to stop space by erecting an oak gate to stop first child, Philippa, in December. vehicles dumping rubbish, and new vehicles going up to dump rubbish, and “I feel it’s now time to set up a ‘base signposts erected. they erected two new fingerposts at camp’ here in East Anglia,” said Glen. The work has been carried out by either end of the path. “I am delighted to have started my job, Waveney using money obtained from “The footpath is a very long-standing the time between appointment and take- central government by Pakefield part of Pakefield, and this project is a up has been long and there is a degree councillor Steve Barrett while acting in sustainable one. It has to be maintained of frustration at being at a distance. For a his role as a co-ordinator of the Kirkley by the council as a result of this grant, while I felt I had two management teams Cemetery and Allotment Watch scheme. and recently they cut the hedge the - one you are getting to know, the other “I applied for a £5000 Living Spaces entire length of the footpath on the you are saying goodbye to, the emotional Grant from the Office for the Deputy allotment side. The staff who did this turmoil can be a pressing influence.” Prime Minister to open up the Oiley could take pride of place in any stately Away from his work Glen has no Fields Footpath, which was virtually home - the hedge is immaculate, they shortage of interests. “We do travel a lot, overgrown and was a crime generator,” did an excellent job. and we do a lot of mountain walking,” he said Cllr Barrett, who works for Suffolk “Weekly litter picks are being said. “I used to be a fairly serious rugby Constabulary as Crime Reduction and undertaken by allotment holders, and player and fell-runner, but work tends to Architectural Liaison Officer for the it’s a footpath now to be enjoyed by all.” get in the way of that. I’m also learning to county’s eastern area. Now Cllr Barrett is hoping the success become a dad! “I wanted to reduce that crime of the scheme will serve as an “I still play squash and go running, generator, and open up a space which inspiration to others. and I also go sea-canoeing - or canoe could be enjoyed by walkers and the “It could be a beacon for other surfing as it tended to be on the Isle of people of Pakefield, and the other spin- locations in Waveney,” he said. “If other Wight. It’s quite exhilarating when you’re off was that the allotment holders would people took an interest in footpaths, and going along on the top of an enormous also enjoy less anti-social behaviour and took a no-tolerance approach to wave - though it doesn’t always end up crime.” dumping, we would all have a nicer quite as you’d anticipated.” After successfully securing the grant place in which to live.” 3 Credit Union Elderly retain their independence Elderly people living in residents able to vary the frequency of aids money sheltered accommodation or in their calls according to their needs. homes are being helped to maintain “If they do need help from the Health their independence for as long as Service, Social Services or from any possible in Waveney. other source they will liaise to make sure management An army of 24 full- and part-time the resident gets access to those wardens are on constant stand-by to services. A successful credit ensure the well-being of almost 700 “In all units there are also emergency union and exciting new plans to transform residents in around 20 sheltered pull cords for residents which link up to a large area of public land in North accommodation schemes in the district. central control, and we can despatch a Lowestoft are just two of the community They also respond to calls for help warden. It’s a 24-hour, 365-days-a-year development projects currently ongoing from around 1600 people who live in service.” in Waveney. their own homes but have home alarm The control centre is also at the hub of The Lowestoft Community Enterprise systems linked to the wardens’ central the Council’s emergency alarm service project has seen the launch of a credit control centre at John Lang Court, in for around 1600 residents still living in union which aims to address some of the Oulton Broad. their own homes. problems that can result from high levels “Waveney’s sheltered housing is “Individuals can rent home alarms of personal debt and to help with money available to anyone over 60 years of from the Council and have them in their management. age,” said Jerry Smith, Waveney’s own home,” said Mr Smith. “The It is run by trained volunteers, Senior Housing Officer (Sheltered residents have a pendant around their headquartered on London Road South, in Housing). “They remain fully neck and if they activate it a call comes Lowestoft, and managed in partnership independent, they have their own front through to the control centre which will with Suffolk Acre. door, and they can partake in social and be able to activate a response - usually “It’s a savings and loan scheme that’s communal activities if they want to. to a named person such as a friend or run as a not-for-profit business,” said “Our wardens provide services to our neighbour. Waveney’s Community Economic own sheltered tenants, to some Housing “The wardens will fit these alarms as Regeneration Co-ordinator Jo McCallum. Association sheltered tenants, and to well. It’s all about ensuring that no one “It’s not like a bank creaming off some private landlords’ sheltered needs to be left without help. The overall massive profits - it’s owned and run by tenants. aim is to help people retain their the community but it’s still governed by “One of the most important services independence for as long as possible the Financial Services Authority.” we offer is a morning check that the either in the sheltered housing units or in It is intended to set up outlets in all residents are up and about, that they’re their own homes.” Lowestoft’s five inner wards, and four of well, and that they don’t need any For further information on sheltered these are already in place. assistance. housing and associated services call The main office at 229 London Road “We offer a fully flexible service, with 01502 523127. South (telephone 01502 584854) covers Kirkley, and there are further collection points at Whitton Life Centre, Whitton The project is expected to cost around ensure they have all the relevant expertise Estate (Whitton); St Andrew’s Church £250,000, and already around £135,000 to handle this project.” Hall, Roman Road (Normanston); and the worth of funding has been secured - The first phase of work is expected to Gunton Tenants and Residents Hall, £120,000 from ‘The Big Lottery, start this summer. Hollingsworth Road (St Margaret’s). Plans Transforming Your Space’ programme, are still being drawn up for a collection and £15,000 from Suffolk County Council. point in Harbour ward, near to the town “At the moment the grass is cut, but the Matt Thubron, Credit Union Project Officer. centre. land hasn’t really been used to its full “The credit union started in February potential and hasn’t had the kind of last year and it’s gone very, very well,” investment the community would have said Jo. “There are currently around 150 liked to see in terms of facilities,” said Jo. members, and you only have to save for “The important thing about this project 13 weeks before you can qualify for a is that it really has empowered the loan. Around 118 million people are community. A steering group has been members of credit unions worldwide, so formed and monthly meetings are held they’re extremely popular.” with support from the Waveney A second major project is the Gunton Community Forum, Suffolk Association of Community Park project, which has Voluntary Organisations and Suffolk involved members of the local community Police. working together with a view to “The community wants to take on the regenerating a 25,000 sq m area of ownership of the park - not in terms of public open space in North Lowestoft, on owning the land, but in terms of being the Gunton, St. Margaret’s Estate involved in the consultation process to It is hoped to create a see what people would like, and making community/peace garden, a natural area decisions as to what will happen. and a children’s play area, and also to “They are very hands on, and have improve lighting. attended various training courses to 4 New beach cleaning gear costs £55,000 The award-winning beaches of the Waveney coastline will be kept in pristine condition this summer thanks to more than £55,000 worth of new beach-cleaning equipment. The Council has taken delivery of a easily be taken free to official dumps in It’s cost us £30,000 this financial year as £26,000 tractor and collecting bucket Lowestoft, Beccles and Southwold. opposed to £16,700 last year so it’s which will tow a £29,000 Barber HD600 “Fly-tipping is on the increase and it virtually doubled. beachrake capable of cleaning up to was felt something should be done,” said “The Tidy Town campaign gives people seven acres of sand an hour. Mr Daniels. “The bulk of it is in Lowestoft, a chance to report fly-tipping, and The 7ft rake has a conveyor belt which and this year we have been averaging 80 there’s also an element of whistle-blowing picks up all types of rubbish and will also fly-tips a month altogether. - any evidence we collect will be passed turn the sand over on flagship beaches “The majority of all fly-tips are removed on to Environmental Health for them to including those at Lowestoft, Kessingland within 24 hours of it first being reported. examine.” and Gunton. The new equipment will enable an area such as Lowestoft’s South Beach to be cleaned in four hours from 5-9am - the same time it previously took three men to New rates concession for do the back-breaking job by manual means. Street cleansing manager Mike Daniels said the council would be saving a lot of small businesses money in the long term - and would be cleaning the beaches more thoroughly. Small businesses in And for the first time business rate “It’s not going to cost as much to clean Waveney are being urged not to miss out payers should already have received a as it does by hand,” said Mr Daniels. “At on the opportunity to slash their business “summary valuation” confirming their new the moment our men litter-pick every yard rate bills by up to 50 per cent. rateable value and giving a breakdown of of the beach, and when bottles were From April new rateable values will how it has been arrived at. buried in the sand last year they were apply to business premises as a result of Meanwhile, the latest revaluation very hard to remove. We have got a the latest five-yearly revaluation process. should not lead to a sudden massive rise better chance to sort these things out. But of far more significance to many in bills as changes are always introduced “During the summer the new firms will be the Government’s gradually. equipment will be used on the Blue Flag introduction of a Small Business Rate “The Transitional Relief Scheme phases beaches on a daily basis removing litter Relief which could ease their burden in any increase or decrease over the full and seaweed, and on other beaches it considerably. five years of the revaluation,” said Mr will be used on a weekly basis. “In broad terms any business with a Sharman. “If the rateable value has “This will help to maintain the standard rateable value of less than £10,000 could increased they’ll only pay a proportion in of our beaches so that we can keep our be eligible for the new Small Business year one, and will be paying the full Blue Flag awards. Rate Relief,” said Waveney’s Local charge by year five.” “In the winter it will be scaled down to Taxation Manager, Chris Sharman. Meanwhile anyone who believes their once a week on all beaches to reduce “But they do need to make an new rateable value is incorrect or litter and dog fouling.” application to the Council by September excessive should appeal to the Valuation The new tractor will also assist the 30th if they haven’t already done so. If in Officer, not to the Council. council in street cleaning - and will be doubt - contact us. “The important thing is that we as a especially valuable in the on-going battle “A number of businesses who were not local authority act as collectors for the against fly-tipping. aware of the implications have been Government so far as the business rate is The council started a “Tidy Town” pleasantly surprised by how much their concerned,” said Mr Sharman. campaign in partnership with the rates have been reduced - potentially “We don’t have any input into the level Lowestoft Journal to give members of the they can get a reduction of up to 50 per of the charge and we don’t benefit public a chance both to report instances cent on their bills.” directly from the money we collect - it of fly-tipping and to blow the whistle on Waveney’s new rateable values on goes to the Government, who than hand those caught dumping their rubbish. business premises are based on notional some it back to us on a head-of- The scheme has proved so popular rental values, and have been calculated population basis.” that it has now been extended to the over the last two years by valuation As a result of the revaluation and other Beccles and Halesworth areas. officers representing the Inland Revenue. changes the Government has launched a Tyres, fridges, furniture, and black bags Bills are calculated by multiplying the new website to deal with frequently asked full of household waste are all being rateable value by a ‘rate in the pound’ questions. For further information visit illegally dumped when the waste could as announced annually by the Government. www.mybusinessrates.gov.uk 5 Royal Philharmonic Orchestra.

Mozart’s Symphony No 40. On September 23rd, the programme Royal Philharmonic features works such as Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, by Mozart; Air on a G String, by Bach; Barber’s Adagio for Strings and the Four Seasons, by Vivaldi. are a Marina sell-out The orchestra will be joined on December 9th by singer Mary Carewe and members of The Royal Philharmonic important part in the cultural life of the town the Lowestoft Choral Society, Pakefield Orchestra (RPO) is enjoying a harmonious and the surrounding area.” Singers and Beccles Choral Society for a relationship with Lowestoft’s Marina Lowestoft Enterprise Adviser Madeleine programme of choral and orchestral music, Theatre. Heath has been working with local schools Christmas songs and traditional carols. Tickets for the orchestra’s first concert in and the Marina to develop activities and The RPO’s residency is supported by the a three-year residency at the theatre were programmes with members of the Eastern Orchestral Board and train operator snapped up within four hours - and its orchestra. "This is a fantastic opportunity for ‘one’. summer, autumn and Christmas concerts students to share in the experience of Sir Thomas Beecham founded the Royal are also expected to sell out. playing and learning from such high-calibre Philharmonic Orchestra in 1946, with the “It’s brilliant to see Britain’s top orchestra musicians. I have been overwhelmed by the aim of creating a world-class ensemble getting such a warm welcome from local response from schools and look forward to whose emphasis on quality and flexibility people,” said Stephen Ardley, Waveney’s the educational partnership with the would attract the best players in the world. Portfolio Member for Operations and orchestra," she said. In 1966, the Queen conferred the Royal title Facilities. “We are so fortunate to have the The idea of establishing a residency was on the orchestra. Today, it remains RPO in Lowestoft. It’s their only residency developed after the RPO performed to a committed to bringing exciting music- outside London and they’re keen to packed house at the Marina last June. The making of the highest quality to the widest develop a real rapport with the local first of its 2005 concert series took place in possible audience. community, and especially our schools.” April and featured the renowned cellist Ian Maclay, Managing Director of the Julian Lloyd Webber. There are further RPO, said, “In addition to the exciting concerts in July, September and December. concert series, RPO members will be The programmes are very accessible, working with young people in the area and comprising mainly popular pieces of music. there will be workshops for the whole family The summer concert on July 1st, for to enjoy. We look forward to making friends example, includes Schubert’s Unfinished with the Lowestoft audience and playing an Symphony, Greig’s Piano Concerto and 6 Waveney’s new vision Rachel tackles Waveney is pursuing the and prosperous environment for our vision of a safe, clean and prosperous communities”. anti-social environment for all its communities This was accompanied by four following a comprehensive review of the priorities: authority’s strategic direction. ● An environment that meets the behaviour The new vision statement and basic needs of our communities: This accompanying priority list were agreed by includes maintaining and improving Waveney has appointed Council members in February. streets, beaches, buildings, parks and its first Anti-Social Behaviour Officer to Lynn Major, Acting Corporate Director, open space; reducing crime and anti- help communities work together to tackle said the Council reviewed its priorities social behaviour; and meeting the a growing problem. every year. However, the latest review had housing requirements of the whole Rachel Tucker has been working with been especially radical as it had community. the Suffolk Special Constabulary as a ● attempted to address issues raised about An environment that is sustainable supervisor in the area for four years, so the Council in its latest Comprehensive and clean: This includes enhancing the she is well aware of the misery that anti- Performance Assessment (CPA). natural environment and access to it, and social behaviour can cause. “We needed to develop a clear vision reducing environmental damage. It can involve problems such as loud for the organisation and the community, ● An environment of quality and music, verbal or physical abuse, and a set of priorities outcomes,” said culture with a strong economy: This aggressive behaviour, or criminal activity. Mrs Major. “We picked up on some of the includes continuing to regenerate “Anti-social behaviour has become a issues raised in the CPA, and we went Lowestoft, the market towns, the rural buzzword for all sorts of neighbourhood through a fairly robust process. areas and the sub-region; increasing issues, some of which are really petty “We used information in the CPA commitment to learning; creating a skilled crimes,” said Rachel. assessment to help us, and we carried and diverse workforce; and increasing “Some civil complaints can be solved out a consultative exercise with the public cultural activity and leisure opportunities. through mediation. It is my job to work in September and October. We used that ● An environment that engages the with partner organisations, including other to find out what was important to the community: This includes improving services of the Council, the Police, youth public and what they saw as key access to information and services; and offending teams, education welfare services.” organising services increasingly around service, housing associations and various The Council’s approved new vision local communities. other agencies to help communities and statement is for “a safe, clean, attractive individuals do something about it. “Sometimes more than one agency for the information they need. It shouldn’t might be dealing with different aspects of Free websites put be necessary for them to know, for the same anti-social behaviour problem example, that highways matters are dealt in what can seem like a rather piecemeal with by the county council and that manner. Part of my job is to ensure that groups online tourism is a district council responsibility. the various agencies share information “Onesuffolk.co.uk simplifies the whole and procedures effectively so that we can Community process of finding out about local all arrive at a lasting and comprehensive organisations are getting free websites as authority and police services in Suffolk.” solution more quickly.” part of a major new initiative to make The site includes a community portal Anti-social behaviour is defined as any more information available online to designed to give community groups a behaviour that causes or is likely to cause Suffolk people. voice on the internet. harassment, alarm or distress to one or At the heart of the project is a new So far, organisations as diverse as more persons not of the same household website - onesuffolk.co.uk parish councils and as the perpetrator. - which puts residents and netball teams have Action can include asking residents to business people in touch taken up the offer of a keep a diary of events and installing with services from all the free website to give temporary CCTV cameras to provide county’s district councils, them a presence on the evidence which can be used to identify including Waveney, plus worldwide web. They the best course of action. Suffolk County Council are also provided with This may involve referring high-quality and Suffolk Police. training to enable them evidence to one of the Council’s partners, Visitors to the site can to keep their sites up to or deciding to apply for an Anti-Social access details on date, a package that Behaviour Order (ASBO), which can carry everything from transport would cost hundreds of a five-year prison sentence if breached. and education to social services and pounds in the commercial world. Details Legal powers available include eviction housing. They can even see where the are available at proceedings where housing association latest traffic hold-ups are and where onesuffolk.co.uk/introduction. or local authority tenants are implicated; safety cameras are positioned. As well as containing a great deal of exclusions from play areas; and “It’s all part of what’s known as original news and information, injunctions, with powers of arrest, seamless service delivery,” said Bruce onesuffolk.co.uk also features seamless prosecution, or confiscation of noisy Provan, Waveney’s Portfolio Holder for links to the individual police and council amplification equipment. Finance and E-Government. websites, putting a massive amount of For further information contact Rachel “People often don’t know where to look information at people’s fingertips. Tucker on 01502 523111. 7 Events1 Thrilling events JUNE

Wed 1 June to Sun 5 June Continental Circus Berlin, Royal Green, Lowestoft (07030 190190). Thurs 2 June to Sun 5 June programme Charter Fair, South Green, Southwold. Sat 4 June Fete, Patrick Stead Hospital, Halesworth, 2pm - 4pm Tall Ships Race, one of the world’s most (01986 872804). prestigious maritime events, are expected to call Wrentham Town Band Concert, United in at Lowestoft between July 19th and 21st. Up Reformed Church, Lowestoft, 7.30pm planned to 30 tall ships could visit the town and five of (01502 513518). Arts & Crafts - Eastern Sails, High the larger ships have already declared their Street, Lowestoft (01502 513518) Sea, land and air events will intentions to come here. Sat 4 June to Sun 12 June thrill residents and visitors to Waveney this year. Skies over Lowestoft seafront will come alive “Easterly Wind”, 2005 Lowestoft Artz Festival (01502 513518) The annual Lowestoft Seafront Air Festival, with spectacular flying displays on July 28th and Sun 5 June Trafalgar bicentenary celebrations and the 29th, when the ninth annual Air Festival takes Fiesta/Fayre in the Square, Beccles opening of a new “dancing” fountain as part of place. The event will be part-funded by a Town Centre, 10am - 4.30pm (01502 710777). the Waveney Sunrise Scheme are all expected voluntary entrance charge and will include three Oulton Broad Musical Festival, 10am - to attract big crowds. and a half hours of flying each afternoon, 4pm (01502 513518). They are part of a massive programme of starting at 2pm. The world famous Red Arrows Thurs 9 June events planned for the spring and summer, display team are the star attraction on both Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm Fri 10 June including a number being organised as part of days. Beccles Charity Bingo, Public Hall, the Sunrise Scheme. The first of these is a Summer fun continues in Lowestoft when the Station Road, Smallgate, Beccles, celebrity re-opening of the colourful new Sunrise Coast Lowestoft Carnival weekend sets 7.30pm Fri 10 June & Sat 11 June permanent market stalls at the Britten Centre the town buzzing on August 13th and 14th. French Market, Triangle Market Place, Market on May 28th. Museums in Lowestoft are coming together to Lowestoft. celebrate various aspects of the town’s history. Sat 11 & Sun 12 June Between October 8th and 9th and October 22nd Flower Festival & Teddy Bear Parachute Jumping, St. Mary’s Church, to 30th there will be exhibitions, guided walks Blundeston, 10.30am - 5.30pm and film, slide and music shows. A reunion of (01502 730145). the Royal Naval Patrol Service, which was Sun 12 June Big Bikeathon, Normanston Park, based at Sparrows Nest during the Second Lowestoft, in aid of Leukaemia World War, takes place on October 8th. Research. Celebrations to mark the 200th anniversary of Halesworth Lions Carnival Fete, Town the Battle of Trafalgar will take place on Royal Park, Halesworth (01986 872994). Thurs 16 June Hydroplanes racing at Oulton Broad. Green on October 22nd and will feature a fun Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm fair, roadshow, fancy dress competition and Fri 17 to Sun 19 Lowestoft’s fishing and maritime traditions are beacon lighting. A special battle-effect fireworks Arts and Gardens Weekend Beccles celebrated in the annual Fish Fayre at the fish display, including simulated cannon fire from the Town Centre, - 10am - 2pm (01502 710777). docks on June 18th as part of the East Coast South Pier, will conclude the evening. Sat 18 June Regatta. Other activities include, two prestigious Lowestoft Fish Fayre, Lowestoft yacht races, powerboat racing, a model boat Docks, 9am - 5pm (01502 565269) (01502 523003). regatta and a lifeboat demonstration. Sun 19 June A new fun fountain opens at Royal Plain, Royal Plaza Fountains opening at Royal Lowestoft, on June 19th when 74 water jets will Plain, Lowestoft. burst into life from the ground. At night the East Coast Festival Model Boat Regatta, Kensington Gardens 10.30 - fountains will be illuminated and “dance” to a 4pm. selection of music, providing a great attraction Thurs 23 June in an enhanced plaza area. Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm Strawberry Tea, The Marquee, Parkhill, Celebrations to commemorate the 60th Oulton anniversary of the end of the Second World War (01493 445314 or 01502 580297) take place at Sparrows Nest on July 9th and Fri 24 June & Sat 25 June 10th. Attractions include a children’s all-day Hangar Dance, 1940s style dance, Ellough Airfield Hangar, Fri 8pm - street party and musical entertainment. The 11.30pm, Sat 8pm - Midnight highlight will be a special anniversary parade Trafalgar Weekend celebrations are being co-ordinated (01502 743189). through Lowestoft with floats, military vehicles nationally by Lowestoft-based Bruno Peek. Sat 25 June and bands, followed by a commemorative Beccles War Memorial Hospital Fete, St Mary’s Road, Beccles, 2pm. service. Further information can be found on the The Southwold Festival of the Sea takes place following web sites: between July 14th and 17th, when classic www.eastcoastfestivals.co.uk sailing boats visit the picturesque harbour to www.lowestoftairfestival.co.uk take part in the Sole Bay race. www.visit-lowestoft.co.uk Some of the vessels taking part in this year’s www.waveneysunrise.org.uk 8 Air Festival takes to the skies Events2 Great news from the organisers aircraft to ensure another first-class line-up - with a of this year’s Lowestoft Air Festival. They have bigger flying budget than in recent years. Sun 26 June Band Concert, Great Yarmouth Brass, finally lifted the doubt surrounding the event, Confirmation has just been received that the Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad, confirming that the Air Festival will definitely take to display will once again include the world-famous 2pm - 4.30pm. the skies again in 2005. Funding from sponsorship Red Arrows on both days! They will be performing Carnival Country Music Day, Sparrow’s and Friends is still required, however. their magical manoeuvres and will be joined in the Nest Gardens, Lowestoft, 12 noon - 7pm. The town’s most popular event has been flying programme by other frontline jets from the Thurs 30 June saved thanks to the efforts of a group of RAF including the Tornado, Hawk and Jaguar. Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm local business people, who have formed a new This year commemorates the 60th anniversary of company called Lowestoft Seafront Air Festival the end of World War Two, so a number of aircraft JULY Ltd. The non-profit-making company is from that era will feature in the display, including Sat 2 July limited by guarantee for charitable the ever-popular Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Crossley Cars Rally, South Green, purposes and those in charge are giving their time A terrific array of civil aircraft will also give flying Southwold, 12noon - 2pm (01206 330550). as volunteers to run the event - taking place on displays. These include a heritage aircraft, Beach Volleyball Tournament, South Thursday, July 28th, and Friday, July 29th. aerobatics teams and old favourites such as the Beach in front of the Hatfield Hotel, The company has the support of Waveney wing walkers. Further details will be published on 7.30am - 6pm. District Council, who are sharing their experiences the Air Festival website as aircraft are confirmed. Gospel Style Concert, Pakefield Singers, United Reformed Church, and expertise of organising Air Festivals for the Each evening when the flying is finished, Lowestoft Lowestoft, 7.30pm (01502 513518). past eight years, and are also giving substantial Esplanade will come alive with music and Sat 2 July to Sun 17 July administrative help to the company. entertainment, and there will be a spectacular Bungay Town Festival, various venues (01986 892005) The Air Festival was previously organised with firework display at 10pm on Thursday evening. Sun 3 July the financial backing of European funding, but this Souvenir programmes priced at £3.00 will be Band Concert, Climax Jazz Band, has now ended. Financial support from available in local shops from early July and from Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad, commercial sponsors, together with voluntary outlets on the seafront during the event. 2pm - 4.30pm. Foresters Big Toddle for Barnardo’s, donations from the public, is therefore vital for its Further Air Festival information can be found at Sparrow’s Nest Gardens, 12 noon survival. A new initiative to encourage individuals www.lowestoftairfestival.co.uk (01502 587756). and businesses to become a Friend of the Air Many keen supporters have already sent in Lowestoft Lifeboat Open Day, South Pier, Lowestoft, 11.00am - 3.00pm, Festival has been introduced, and spectators will applications to become a Friend of the Air Festival sea exercise 2pm, service & blessing again be encouraged to make voluntary donations - but more are still needed. For just £10 annual of the lifeboat at 3pm. at the entrances to the seafront. membership subscription, you and your family can Thurs 7 July This year will be the ninth Lowestoft Seafront Air become Friends of the Air Festival and will receive: Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm ● Sat 9 July & Sun 10 July Festival and it promises two days of spectacular A Friends of Lowestoft Air Festival 60th Anniversary Celebrations to mark flying. It is sponsored again this year by Unilever certificate the end of WW2, Sparrow’s Nest Ice Cream and Frozen Food, the home of Birds ● Access to the Lowestoft Air Festival Gardens & Marina Theatre, Lowestoft (01502 533200) Eye products in Lowestoft. Website - Exclusive “Friends” pages Sun 10 July Plans are now set for two fantastic days of ● A souvenir programme* Band Concert, Castleton Brass, entertainment with each day’s activities starting at ● Two Friend of the Air Festival Badges* Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad, 10am when amusements and a wide variety of 2pm - 4.30pm. (*Both of these will be posted to you in July prior Display & Procession of World War market stalls, lining the promenade and Royal to the Air Festival) Two Vehicles, Royal Green, 11am Green, open for business. There will also be a All existing and new Friends will be entered into (01502 523003). food village and beer tent, plus other food outlets Concert to celebrate the end of World a free prize draw to win a 32” LCD TV home War Two, featuring the John Leman positioned along the Esplanade. cinema system, valued at £2000, kindly donated Swing Band, Woodbridge Youth Band Much work is going into the programming of by Hughes Electrical and Sony. and Hewitt School Norwich Band (01502 533200) Marina Theatre, Lowestoft. Thurs 14 July Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm Friend of Lowestoft Air Festival Thurs 14 July to Sun 17 July I would like to become a “Friend” and enclose my cheque for £10 (no cash please) Southwold Festival of the Sea, Sole Bay Festival (01502 523003). Please make cheque payable to Lowestoft Seafront Air Festival Ltd Sat 16 & Sun 17 July (Please print clearly as the name(s) shown below will appear on the certificate) Lowestoft Classic Vehicle Club, two- day rally at Fritton Lake, 10am both Surname (Mr/Mrs/Miss/Other) ...... days (01502 584566). Forename ...... Sun 17 July Band Concert, Wrentham Band, Address ...... Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad, 2pm - 4.30pm...... Bungay Antiques Market, Earsham Street, Bungay - 9am - 5pm, free ...... Postcode ...... admission (01986 782464). Tues 19 to Thurs 21 July Date ...... E-mail Address ...... Tall Ships Visiting Lowestoft Harbour Please return this completed form and your cheque for £10 to: (01502 523003). Friends of Lowestoft Air Festival, 41 Tennyson Road, Lowestoft, Suffolk, NR32 1PS Thurs 21 July www.lowestoftairfestival.co.uk Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm 9 Events3 Sat 23 July Public Open Day, Hampton Boatyard, Caldecott Road, Oulton Broad, 11am - 4pm (1pm demonstration on the water). Sat 23 July to Mon 25 July St Benet’s Flower Festival, St Benet’s Minster & Church Hall, St Mary’s Road, Beccles, Sat 10am - 6pm, Sun 11am - 6pm, Mon 10am - 6pm. Sun 24 July Band Concert, Cawston Band, Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad, 2pm - 4.30pm. Thurs 28 July Artist’s impression of improvements to Bevan Street, Lowestoft. Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm Thurs 28 July & Fri 29 July Lowestoft Seafront Air Festival, fantastic flying displays on both dates, 2 - 5.30pm (01502 523335) Sat 30 July Jazz on the Green, South Green, Sunrise brings new Southwold, 6pm - 11pm (charity collection) (01502 675705). Sat 30 July to Sat August 6 Exhibition of Paintings by Beccles Society of Artists, Beccles Public Hall, Smallgate, Beccles, 10am - 6pm daily, Sun 2pm - 6pm, closure day 5pm. look to Lowestoft Sun 31 July Work is continuing on the junctions. Initial proposals are expected within Eastern Lights Motorcycle Cavalcade, £14.7million Waveney Sunrise Scheme to make three months, following which the public will be Royal Green, Lowestoft, 12 noon - 5pm. Lowestoft a more welcoming and attractive fully consulted before any decisions are made. Band Concert, Dereham Band, shopping destination. If approved, the projects will be developed in Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad, The scheme aims to improve access for partnership with the Highways Agency and 2pm - 4.30pm. Adnam’s Flying Egg Alternative pedestrians, cyclists, disabled drivers and constructed in 2006. Deckchair Competition, High Street, passengers. Works in London Road North from Surrey Southwold, all day, prize presentation The improvements will encourage a more Street to Gordon Road are progressing as at 3pm (01502 727200) lively, vibrant street scene, which in turn will planned, and are on schedule for completion by Sun 31 July to Fri 5 Aug Cross Roads Club, South Beach, improve business for traders. Local residential October this year. Lowestoft, Beach Mission by streets and the approaches into Lowestoft will They include the re-creation of the Queen Association of Grace Baptist Churches, also benefit from the scheme. Elizabeth Square, complete with new clock; two 10.30 am & 2.30 pm (01449 736525) The next stage of works comprises new areas for children’s play equipment; and AUGUST improvements to Bevan Street East. Plans the creation of a vibrant gateway to the Marina approved by traders include improvements to Theatre. Thusday 4 Aug road surfacing, widening of footways and Just off this area are the existing market stalls Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm Fri 5 Aug to Sun 7 Aug improvements to the lighting and signing. in the Britten Centre which are being replaced Gig in the Park at Halesworth Town Streetlights will be replaced and trees planted by permanent stalls open five days a week. Park similar to those in London Road North. Work to replace the stalls was due to start in Sat 6 Aug & Sun 7 Aug Southwold Model Railway Exhibition, If you have any queries about these late April. St. Felix School, Halesworth Road, improvements please contact Project Officer Looking forward to the remaining 21 months Southwold, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am- Debra Smith on 01502 523384. of the scheme, works will concentrate on 4.30pm (01986 873523). Other works programmed in the area include projects south of the bridge. Phase one of the Sat 6 Aug 60th Anniversary celebrations for end the widening of Katwijk Way from Clapham Royal Plain improvements are well under way, of World War Two, concert in Public Road South to Denmark Road. This project, with testing of the 74 water jets set to take place Hall, Beccles. which is being developed in partnership with the during May in time for a grand opening in June. Music Hall Concert, finale to the Lowestoft Concert Series, United Highways Agency, will provide an additional Designs for projects including Royal Green, Reformed Church, Lowestoft traffic lane to be used for traffic travelling from the four gateways, Parade Road South, (01502 513518). Clapham Road South to Denmark Road, Waterloo Road, Claremont Road and Cliff Road, Sat 6 Aug to Fri 12 Aug avoiding Bevan Street East. which link London Road South to the seafront Lowestoft Summer Funfair, Royal Green, Lowestoft. These works, with the agreement of traders, and the existing A12 from the bascule bridge to will be carried out at the same time as the Kensington gardens and back, are almost Bevan Street East works to reduce the overall complete. All these projects form part of the period of disruption. Associated Measures to be carried out in Investigations are also continuing to see if the conjunction with the South Lowestoft relief long-term aim of preventing traffic entering Road. Suffolk Road at the Station Square end can be brought forward. This could include making If you have any queries about the Waveney Katwijk Way, Station Square and Waveney Road Sunrise Scheme please contact Project two-way, with measures at various associated Manager Paul Moss on 01502 523392. 10 New company to Events4 Sun 7 Aug Lowestoft Carnival Dog Show, Royal encourage prosperity Green, Lowestoft, 11am - 4pm. Lowestoft Carnival Funday, Sparrow’s Nest Gardens, Lowestoft, 12 noon - The future looks brighter for The URC will cost £500,000 a year to run, with 6pm (01502 523003) Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth following the the East of England Development Agency being Band Concert, New Buckenham Silver Band, Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Government’s approval of plans to set up an the principal funder along with Norfolk County Broad 2pm-4.30pm. Urban Regeneration Company (URC). Council, Suffolk County Council, Great Yarmouth Lowestoft Model Boat Club Carnival The URC intends to reverse previous decline Borough Council, and Waveney. Regatta, Kensington Gardens, by bringing economic growth to the area - and The URC will create a master plan to allow the Lowestoft, 10am – 4pm St John Fellowship Bazaar, aims to create more than 2000 jobs within the redevelopment of riverside and brownfield sites Walberswick Village Hall, 2pm. next six years. Currently Lowestoft and Yarmouth for employment, housing and other appropriate Mon 8 Aug to Sat 13 Aug account for 25 per cent of all those unemployed uses. Lowestoft 53rd Juler Junior Tennis Tournament, Normanston Park in Norfolk and Suffolk. The main areas to be targeted in Lowestoft (01502 523010). Confirmation that the URC had been given the will be Lake Lothing, the Fish Dock, and Ness Thurs 11 Aug go-ahead by the Department of Trade and Point. The URC will focus initially on riverside Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm Industry and the Office of the Deputy Prime sites to regenerate quayside frontages in a Fri 12 Aug Lowestoft Carnival Fishing Match, Minister won a warm reception from Wendy sustainable manner. South Pier, evening. Mawer, Waveney’s Portfolio Holder for URCs already operate in 21 English towns Sat 13 Aug Regeneration. and cities, and are run by a private sector-led Lowestoft Sunrise Carnival, Royal Green, Lowestoft, 10am - 10pm, free “This is a most welcome step along the path board with a chief executive and small staff. family entertainment (01502 523003). to delivering the maximum regeneration for the Kevin Lim, Suffolk County Council’s Executive Sat 13 Aug & Sun 14 Aug Lowestoft/Great Yarmouth sub-region,” said Cllr Member for Economic and Social Regeneration, Exhibition of Photographs 1939 – Mawer. “This really is the most significant move said: “I believe the URC will provide a genuine 1945, St Michael’s Parish Church, Beccles. for the improvement of the whole of Waveney.” new initiative with the two towns working in Sun 14 Aug She highlighted the important link with close harmony, and will enable us to regenerate Band Concert, Fakenham Town Band, Yarmouth’s eagerly-awaited £43.5million Outer substantial areas of Lowestoft, such as Lake Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad, Harbour scheme, which is expected to open in Lothing and the harbour area, enabling them to 2pm - 4.30pm. Sunrise Coast Lowestoft Carnival, 2008. reach their potential and achieve both economic events all weekend on Royal Green, “One of the cries of companies like Unilever growth and environmental improvement.” parade at 3pm from Kirkley Park Road and Sanyo is that this is such a bad place to get EEDA chairman Richard Ellis said: “Yarmouth (01502 523003) 60th Anniversary of end of World War products away from,” said Cllr Mawer. and Lowestoft were both historically vibrant Two, parade of veterans in Beccles to She added that the URC would be crucial in towns that, unfortunately, were badly affected by commemorate VE and VJ delivering local jobs and retaining the skills of the loss of traditional industries.” anniversaries. young people in the area. Walberswick Crabbing. Sun 14 Aug to Fri 19 Aug Oulton Broad Regatta Week, racing (01502 565619). Tues 16 Aug Nutmeg Puppet Show, presented by the Work complete on Corton defences Broads Authority at Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad, 11.00am - Work to reinforce the coastal enable walkers to go on it once it’s opened up,” 3.00pm. defences at Corton has been completed at a said Julian Walker, Waveney’s Principal Service Sun 21 Aug Lowestoft Classic Vehicle Club, classic total cost of around £3million. Manager (Coast Protection). vehicle run in aid of Lowestoft Mini The first stage of work to protect Corton took “The public hasn’t been able to gain access Bus for the Blind, fish docks, place in 2003 when 30,000 tonnes of rock were for five or six years, but we hope it will be open Lowestoft, to Somerleyton Hall, placed in front of a 1.1km section of damaged again by the early summer.” Lowestoft, 10am (01502 584566) Band Concert, Loddon Band , Nicholas sea wall. The latest major project has seen Waveney Everitt Park, Oulton Broad, 2pm - But the old structure then suffered additional join forces with the Environment Agency to 4.30pm. damage as a result of a surge tide in December devise a £6million plan to protect Southwold Goldwing Motorcycle Club of Great Britain Parade of 1,000 Goldwing 2003, and further funding had to be obtained for and Easton Marsh. Motorcycles to Royal Green, new work to be carried out. “The declining beach level is causing concern Lowestoft, from their Norwich Rally Now more rock has been imported by barge for the long-term security of the coastal (01502 560414). from Norway and placed in front of the sea wall. protection and sea defence structures,” said Mr Thurs 25 Aug Powerboat Racing, Oulton Broad, 6pm Around 65 per cent of the total project costs Walker. Sat 27 August have been paid for by the Department for Although Waveney will be putting up around St. Bartholomew’s Fair, Southwold, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA). £4million the proposed scheme will require medieval charity fair, Bartholomew Green, 10am - 4pm (01502 724340) It is anticipated that the Corton defences will DEFRA approval and substantial grant aid. Sun 28 Aug now last for 20-30 years. Meanwhile it is It is hoped the eight-month project will be Band Concert, Stowmarket Concert expected that the sea wall will soon be opened given the go ahead to begin this autumn. Band, Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton for the public to walk on for the first time in The work will comprise rock groynes over to Broad, 2pm - 4.30pm. Mon 29 Aug years. the north of Southwold Pier, timber groynes to Lowestoft Lions Charity Gala Day, “In effect the work is done, but we have yet to the south of the pier, and the introduction of Nicholas Everitt Park, Oulton Broad. reinstate the handrail in front of the seawall to fresh supplies of sand to recharge the beach. 11 Six executive members of Waveney District Council have special decision- Faster decision-making Events5 making responsibilities in key areas. They were given their Wendy Mawer Ken Sale SEPTEMBER powers in 2003 as a result of changes made by the Council Wendy Mawer Ken Sale, 66, is Sun 4 Sept wears two very Waveney’s Portfolio Band Concert, Hellesdon and to help speed up the process of Sprowston Brass, Nicholas Everitt decision-making. In this special different yet closely Member for the Park, Oulton Broad, 2pm - 4.30pm. feature we meet Waveney’s six related hats in her Built Environment - Sun 4 Sept to Fri 9 Sept work for Waveney - battling on and admits there’s plenty to Lowestoft Blind Bowls Annual Portfolio holders. Tournament, Kensington Gardens, the one hand for the economic keep him busy. Lowestoft. regeneration of Lowestoft, and “I cover planning, Thurs 8 Sept to Sun 11 Sept Colin Law on the other for the recognition environment, licensing, Southwold Jazz Festival of rural areas. environmental health, recycling Sun 11 Sept Powerboat Racing, Battle of Britain Colin Law is Cllr Mawer was first elected and fly-tipping, transport, Trophy, Oulton Broad, 12noon. delighted to be at on to Waveney District Council highways and coastal Lowestoft Scores Race, a hill race up the cutting edge of in 2002, and represents defences, so there’s quite a bit and down the historic Scores & High local politics - Street, 1.00 - 3.30pm (01502 574763) Blything. Since 2003 the to do,” says Cllr Sale, a Thurs 15 Sept helping to make decisions that Conservative has also been a Conservative councillor RNLI Coffee Morning, Royal Norfolk & are shaping frontline services key figure as Waveney’s representing Worlingham ward. Suffolk Yacht Club, Royal Plain, for the people of Waveney. Portfolio Holder for Economic “Coastal defences are a big Lowestoft. Sat 17 Sept & Sun 18 Sept Cllr Law, 62, was elected as a Regeneration. talking point at the moment, Grand Henham Steam Rally, Henham Conservative councillor for “As a member I have always and I feel strongly that while Park, 10am - 6pm Oulton Broad in 2002, and is highlighted the rural agenda. I there are areas where you can now Portfolio Holder for feel that in Waveney we are let nature take its course there OCTOBER Corporate Governance. dominated by Lowestoft and are parts you have to protect as Tues 4 Oct “I take responsibility for the there’s a perception that not well.” Historic Lowestoft - Lighthouse Tour management of the Council,” enough attention is paid to the Cllr Sale was born and 7pm (01502 533600) Thurs 6 Oct said Cllr Law, who lives in rest of the local area,” she brought up in Bury St Historic Lowestoft - Ghost Walks Oulton Broad. “It’s about said. Edmunds, where his parents (01502 533600) setting out the corporate “I tend to say: ‘Hold on, ran the Greyhound pub in Sat 8 Oct image, the corporate structure, Waveney is also the rural areas Eastgate Street. Royal Naval Patrol Service Association Reunion, 10.45am annual parade, and looking at ways of as well as Lowestoft’, and I feel He completed an engineering 11am memorial service, Belle Vue improving the constitution and that has to be said. apprenticeship in two stints Park, Lowestoft (01502 523003) the way we do our business. “The other side is that as either side of a 12-year spell in Sat 8 Oct & Sun 9 Oct It’s about being an enabler for Historic Lowestoft - Events to celebrate Portfolio Holder I try to attract the RAF, but then followed the the history of Lowestoft. the other portfolio holders.” the maximum economic family tradition by entering the Tues 11 Oct Originally from Liverpool, Cllr regeneration input in Lowestoft, licensing trade. Historic Lowestoft - Ghost Walks Law has lived in the Waveney because the major urban Working for the Norwich (01502 533600) Thurs 13 Oct area for more than 40 years, conurbation tends to be the Brewery Company he managed Historic Lowestoft - Ghost Walks and his wife, Dianne, daughters driver for the well-being of the the Dolphin on Heigham Street, (01502 533600) Nicola and Amanda, and his rural area as well.” in Norwich, followed by the Thurs 20 Oct grandchildren, are all Suffolk- Cllr Mawer lives in Stracey Arms, on the Acle Historic Lowestoft - Ghost Walks (01502 533600) born. Halesworth and has been Straight, and the Lamb Inn, in Fri 14 Oct & Sat 15 Oct He works as an electrical settled in the area for 32 years Norwich city centre. Christmas Craft Fayre, Somerleyton maintenance engineer for AJS - a far cry from the much- He then held the tenancy of Hall, organised by Lowestoft Lifeboat Guild, Fri 12noon - 5pm, Sat 10am - (Amec-Jacobs-Stork). Based in travelled lifestyle she grew up the Kingsway, on Carrow 4pm Yarmouth, he acts in support of with as a result of her father’s Bridge for 10 years, during Sat 15 Oct & Sun 16 Oct offshore personnel. work as a trouble-shooting which time he also held the Art and Craft Exhibition and Sale, St Aside from his Council aircraft engineer. licence for two other pubs. He Mary’s Church, Blundeston, 10.30am - 5pm (01502 730145) involvement he is also kept “I was born in Scotland, but I wound up his career in Tues 18 Oct busy by his role as Deputy worked out that by the time I Portugal, where he spent eight Historic Lowestoft - The Mystery of the Chairman of Waveney was 21 I had had 37 different years running a building firm. Monk Walking Tour (01502 533600). Conservative Association. homes,” she recalls. “I never Although he had family Fri 21 Oct “I have always had an really quite knew where home connections with local politics 200th Anniversary of Battle of Trafalgar interest in local politics in was. I swore I would never do from an early age, Cllr Sale did Beacon, lighting the beacon and all the particular,” he said. “I believe that with my children, so when not become directly involved for fun of the fair, Royal Green, Lowestoft, 5pm - 9.30pm. they’re what affect people most we came to Suffolk home many years. That changed with Sat 22 Oct because they provide frontline became Suffolk.” a phone call five years ago. Historic Lowestoft Trafalgar Firework services, so you can have a big Cllr Mawer enjoyed a sales “I was on holiday lying on a Display, Royal Green, Lowestoft, free influence.” admission, 5pm - 9.30pm (01502 and marketing career during beach when I got a call from 523003). In his spare time Cllr Law which she and her late Mark Bee asking if I would like enjoys playing golf, and is also husband, Tony, were always to stand in Kessingland. looking forward to spending as active in politics. She has three “I wasn’t too sure at first but I much time as possible with his daughters, all of whom were won the seat and that was the second grandchild, Millie, who educated locally and have now start of it, first at Kessingland, is just a few weeks old. “grown and flown”. and now Worlingham.” 12 Stephen Ardley Steve Chilvers Bruce Provan

Mayor of Lowestoft Steve Chilvers Bruce Provan only is a title Stephen believes Waveney became a Waveney Events6 Ardley holds with is facing one of its councillor last year pride after leading biggest decisions - but has a wealth Wed 26 Oct the campaign in 2003 to have in years as tenants prepare to of experience to draw on in his Historic Lowestoft - Family Tour, for all the family and ideal for children aged the role reinstated. vote on the future of the role as Portfolio Member for between 6-12 years (01502 533600) Lowestoft-born Cllr Ardley , a district’s housing stock. Finance and E-Government. Mon 31 Oct Conservative councillor for As Portfolio Holder for Cllr Provan, 54, spent more Historic Lowestoft - Family Halloween Tour, Lowestoft’s Historic High Street, Carlton ward, is Waveney’s Housing and Social Inclusion than 30 years in finance and (01502 533600). Portfolio Member for he has no doubt as to the economics with Shell Oil - the Operations and Facilities, significance of proposals to company that originally brought MARKETS which means he is responsible transfer management of the him to Waveney around 12 Town Markets for facilities such as parks, Council’s stock to a Housing years ago. Fri New Market, Beccles caravan sites, swimming pools Association. After taking early retirement Thurs The Buttercross, Bungay and theatres. “We are in the process of Cllr Provan was persuaded by Wed Market Place, Halesworth Tues/Thurs/Fri/Sat In addition he is Chair of the balloting tenants on how they Shell colleague Chris Punt - Britten Centre, Lowestoft Local Area Forum, a member would like to see the stock already a councillor and now Fri & Sat The Triangle, Lowestoft of Waveney’s Executive, and managed. We face some deputy Portfolio Holder - that he Mon & Fri The Market Place, Chairman of the Lowestoft serious challenges in the way should stand for the Council. Southwold Charter Trustees. we’re going to finance major He was subsequently elected Arts & Crafts “It’s a lot of different hats, repairs and the maintenance of to represent Kessingland as a 1st Saturday in month, Arts & Crafts but I love it,” says the 51-year- housing, so it’s an interesting Conservative. Fayre, Eastern Sails Canopies at the Triangle, Lowestoft. old auctioneer at Lowestoft time.” “The finance side is all about Contact: Artworkz 01502 513518. auction rooms. “It’s my town, Cllr Chilvers, 48, is a keeping in close contact with and I feel it’s my duty to do Conservative councillor for the finance officer. We have Craft & Gift Fayre, Hungate Hall, anything I can to improve the Gunton and Corton, having first regular fortnightly meetings to Beccles, 10am - 4.30pm Saturdays: 21 May, 25 June, 30 July, Waveney area whether by been elected prior to boundary discuss any issues that have 27 August, 17 September, 20 October, promoting local businesses or changes to represent the old come up and may require 26 November by improving parks and Gunton ward in 2000. decisions, and to look at how (01502 714161/07901 635591). facilities.” He originally comes from we should proceed in the Farmers’ Markets Cllr Ardley was born on Fleetwood, but has close ties future,” said Cllr Provan. Last Saturday in the month, Grange Police Station Road in his with Waveney as his “The E-government is about Farm Centre, Barsham 9am -1pm mother’s home town of grandfather’s family used to bringing the Council up to date (01502 575218) 1st & 3rd Saturday of the month, Lowestoft, but grew up in fish out of Lowestoft. technologically. It’s heavily Beccles Heliport, Ellough, near London. Cllr Chilvers returned to the computer based, and involves Beccles. He reached the rank of area about 10 years ago to things like helping people to General Markets / Car Boot Warrant Officer during a 22- work on contract with Shell. An pay their Council Tax by credit Sales year career in the Army, and instrument engineer, he now card over the phone rather than March to December, Every Sunday, undertook a variety of roles in works for AMEC on engineering having to come into the council Beccles Sunday Market, Ellough Lowestoft after leaving the and contract projects. offices with a cheque book.” Airfield, 9am - 4pm. March to October, every Sunday forces 10 years ago. He is married to Jenny, and Originally from Surrey, Cllr morning, Suffolk Wildlife Park Car Boot He worked at Lowestoft has three grown-up children. Provan is married to Anne, and Sale, Suffolk Wildlife Park, Kessingland. Magistrates’ Court in a security He is a real ale enthusiast - and the couple have a son, Andrew, role, and was then manager of a member of CAMRA - and 29, and a daughter, Sarah, 27. Regular Events Electric Picture Palace, Blackmill Road, a local pine company before also enjoys indulging a passion He is a keen rugby follower, Southwold the dream job came up and for motorcycling. having played the game at club Fri & Sat 7pm 15 April - 18 June gave him a golden opportunity Cllr Chilvers stood for the level for 40 years - including a Mon, Tues & Thurs 22 July - 3 Sept Fri & Sat 7pm 22 July - 3 Sept to indulge his passion for Council out of a desire to help seven-year spell playing in Fri & Sat 7pm 7 Oct - 10 Dec antiques and auctions. bring about changes in Holland. Other interests include “Getting this job in Lowestoft Waveney, and says he enjoys hiking, walking, touring, and was just a question of being in the work. motorcycling. the right place at the right time “It is demanding trying to Summing up his first year in - there’s only one auction accommodate the demands of local politics, he says: “I’m house in Lowestoft and I’ve a full-time job at the same time, enjoying it very much - though been here for eight or nine but I still get a buzz out of it I’m sometimes surprised at just years now.” and feel we have made some how difficult it is. People want Cllr Ardley - who is married significant improvements to the things done but they don’t want to Maria and has three grown- area. to pay council tax - and it’s not up children - has always been “A lot of things take a while to easy trying to give people what interested in politics, but did come to fruition, but I’m they want without charging for not stand for election as a confident that in five or 10 it.” Waveney councillor until 2001. years’ time we’ll have a sense He led the campaign to of pride in some of the work reinstate the role of Mayor of that’s been done to regenerate Lowestoft in 2003, and took up the area and improve the office a year later. employment prospects.” 13 Wardens given green light to carry on

Lowestoft’s four-strong team of street wardens have been given the go-ahead to continue. The wardens have been working in partnership with the Council, police and town centre manager to make Lowestoft town centre a cleaner, safer and friendlier place. They have now received funding through a partnership deal with Suffolk County Council and St Edmundsbury Borough Council. Street wardens have been extremely successful and it is hoped to build upon the impact they have already achieved. The wardens will continue their crusade against fly-posters, dirty dogs, abandoned cars, litter and fly-tipping. Lowestoft Street Wardens (left to right) Steve Baker, Tony Ames and Sue Harvey. Waveney is working closely with Suffolk County Council to develop ways in which The most common questions put to the Happily, experience has proved that the street wardens can extend their areas wardens are ‘Where are the toilets?’ or children are normally located within less of patrol to include a larger part of ‘Where’s the tourist information?’ than five minutes. Lowestoft and the towns of Beccles, The wardens’ extensive local Wardens not only help children but also Bungay, Halesworth and Southwold. knowledge means they are able to provide reassurance to the elderly when With the more extended patrol areas it answer most questions, and when they they visit the town centre. Occasionally is envisaged that the street wardens will are unable to do so they will know wardens will accompany vulnerable be given a more active role to tackle someone who can. elderly people back to their cars in the some of the issues that blight Reuniting lost children with their multi-storey car parks. neighbourhoods, such as dog fouling, parents, for example, is all in a day’s So what type of person makes a good graffiti and fly posting. work. Fortunately, wardens are able to street warden? Someone who is Street wardens will also be given new call upon the assistance of CCTV and knowledgeable and outgoing, willing to powers to take enforcement action. This local retailers in the search. As soon as a deal with all sorts and ready to help involves issuing fixed penalty notices to parent reports the loss of a child, people in many different circumstances. deal with persistent and wilful offenders wardens will radio their description A thick skin that shrugs off the occasional who continue to despoil our streets and through to CCTV control. barbed comment and a willingness to neighbourhoods. A radio message is instantly passed to tackle anti-social behaviour are also The street wardens are also visible all the shops via the retail security essential. Most of all, it’s someone who is ambassadors for the town, helping network. Immediately, there are more proud to keep things safe in Suffolk. visitors and having a valuable role to play than 50 sets of eyes, as well as cameras, So next time you pass a street warden, in making them feel welcome in the town. on the look-out for the missing child. just stop and have a chat.

control section has just one vacancy. A 2007 target was set for dealing with Planning service on target minor, major and other planning applications and these are already on or above trajectory. Planning applications staffed we were three posts short of the The target for minor applications has are back on firm foundations in Waveney national average,” said Barry Reid, already been met. During the first after the Government acknowledged that Principal Services Manager, Planning quarter of 2004 only 31 per cent of minor a national problem was holding back and Building Control. applications were dealt with in eight regeneration. “But this picture was not unique to weeks. By the last quarter of the year Staff shortages and difficulties in Waveney and the Government this had risen to 69 per cent. recruiting qualified personnel badly recognised that planning was the There was also a marked affected the service, not only in Waveney catalyst for national regeneration and put improvement in dealing with other but also in towns and cities throughout millions of pounds into the service.” applications, which rose from 53 per the UK. It caused delays in applications Waveney received a planning delivery cent at the start of the year to 72 per being dealt with and building projects grant of £173,000 and worked with the cent at the end. being started. Government Office for the East of People buying property will be pleased “Not only was the planning England on an improvement plan. The to hear that the time taken to undertake department operating on half the aim was to recruit and retain staff for land searches fell from 20-25 days in number of staff it should have had, but existing jobs and also to fill additional January 2004 to just 4-5 days in January we found that even if we’d been fully posts. At present the development this year. 14 Waveney is an excellent place to start a new business. And Waveney District Council is a great place to start when you’re looking for advice on how to do it. Waveney first for The Council has established partnerships with a range of support organisations that can help budding entrepreneurs’ business ideas flourish. One example is with the Waveney Economic Partnership, comprising private new business and public sector organisations working for the economic benefit of Waveney. Waveney works with Suffolk “Waveney is a terrific place to start a Development Agency, for example, to new business,” said Wendy Mawer, provide a comprehensive list of available Portfolio Holder for Regeneration. “In property in the district - from managed advice addition to all the help and advice that workspace units and offices to factories can be accessed through the Council’s and shops. The register is updated economic development team, there’s a regularly thanks to links with commercial NWES also offers a range of services, real feeling that things are happening property agents, and details of all including advice, training, grants and here. properties can be found on the website loans, all aimed at boosting self- “More than £14 million is being www.suffolk-property.com. employment and encouraging invested in enhancing the image of Norfolk and Waveney Enterprise entrepreneurship. Lowestoft through the Waveney Sunrise Services (NWES), with whom the Council Another partner is The Prince’s Trust, a Scheme and the town’s South Quay has close ties, has a strong presence in UK charity set up to help people aged Development includes retail and leisure the district. It manages the Riverside from 14 to 30 to realise their potential. It schemes that will provide a real Business Centre, North East Suffolk provides training, mentoring and financial economic boost to the area. Business Centre and Silkcutters House, help, and focuses on those who have “Add to this the Urban Regeneration all providing ideal accommodation for struggled at school, been in care, been in Company being set up with Great new and expanding businesses in trouble with the law or are long-term Yarmouth and you have real progress Lowestoft. unemployed. being made at the heart of Waveney.”

there are also steps for the less adventurous. The centre - which is open seven days Swimming pool to have a week - has a 25 x 10.5m main pool, a teaching pool with steps and graded entry, a wheelchair ramp, and good accommodation for spectators. luxury fitness suite The pool is used regularly by members of both Beccles Kingfishers Swimming Waveney Valley disabled gym users. Club and Halesworth Swimming Club. Swimming Pool is undergoing a major The existing indoor heated pool As well as public sessions there are makeover as work progresses on a facilities - which attracted more than also regular adult and toddler classes, luxurious new fitness suite which is due to 128,000 visitors last year - are also aquacise, adult and junior swimming open this June at the popular facility in benefiting from major improvements. lessons, and sessions for the disabled. Bungay. The showers and shower walls have Information about membership of the The eagerly-awaited scheme is being undergone a much-needed new gym is expected to be available in fitted by Pulse Fitness, and will comprise refurbishment, and a significant upgrade May. Anyone wishing to receive this around 50 stations of mixed aerobic and has seen five new boilers installed to information should contact Waveney weight machines. It will also feature replace the three elderly ones which were Valley Swimming Pool on 01986 895014. television and music facilities to ensure approaching the end of their useful that keeping fit becomes a pleasure! working lives. “We have been waiting for years for The new boilers have greatly added to something like this and it’s going to be the comfort of pool users by ensuring a absolutely amazing,” said Bev Johnson, greater consistency of temperatures both Acting Principal Service Manager for in and out of the water! Leisure Facilities at Waveney District Meanwhile new flooring has been Council, which manages the pool. “The installed both in the spectator area and in area needs a facility like this and we are the main entrance/reception area. The pleased to be providing it.” latter has also benefited from a new The fitness suite will contain free weight ceiling and improved lighting. equipment, treadmills, cross-trainers, and Waveney Valley Pool was opened in running, cycling and rowing machines. 1991, and features an exciting 42m water The facility will also have its own slide which provides an exhilarating changing areas for male, female and means of entering the water - although Waveney Valley Swimming Pool, Bungay. 15 See where decisions are made

Want to see your July 6th Sept 7th councillors in action? Members of the 6.30pm Rural Parishes Development Control Committee 6.30pm Rural Parishes Development Control Committee July 12th Sept 8th public are welcomed at many of Waveney 7.30pm Area Forum (Carlton, Carlton Colville & Kessingland) 7.30pm Scrutiny Committee District Council’s meetings, where July 13th Sept 13th important decisions are taken on 7.30pm Area Forum (Harbour & Normanston) 7.30pm Area Forum (Gunton, Corton & St. Margarets) everything from housing and sea July 14th Sept 14th 7.30pm Scrutiny Committee 5.30pm Establishment & Workforce Planning Committee defences to leisure and refuse collection. July 19th 7.30pm Area Forum (Blything, Halesworth, Southwold, You may attend and observe meetings, 7.30pm Area Forum (Blything, Halesworth, Southwold, Reydon & Wrentham) and at planning and development control Reydon & Wrentham) Sept 15th July 20th 6.00pm The Executive committees you may also speak on 5.30pm Establishment & Workforce Planning Committee Sept 20th matters that concern you. 6.30pm Lowestoft & Northern Parishes Development Control 7.30pm Area Forum (Harbour & Normanston) Committee Sept 21st Here is a list of meetings open to the July 21st 6.30pm Lowestoft & Northern Parishes Development Control 6.00pm The Executive Committee public. A full programme of all Council July 26th Sept 22nd meetings is available on our website - 7.30pm Area Forum (Bungay & The Saints) 7.30pm Full Council Meeting www.waveney.gov.uk July 27th Sept 27th 7.30pm Area Forum (Kirkley, Pakefield & Whitton) 7.30pm Area Forum (Carlton, Carlton Colville & Kessingland) August 2nd Sept 28th 7.30pm Area Forum (Lothingland, Oulton & Oulton Broad) 7.30pm Area Forum (Bungay & The Saints) June 1st Aug 3rd Oct 4th 6.30pm Rural Parishes Development Control Committee 6.30pm Rural Parishes Development Control Committee 7.30pm Area Forum (Kirkley, Pakefield & Whitton) June 15th Aug 4th Oct 5th 6.30pm Lowestoft and Northern Parishes Development 7.30pm Full Council Meeting 6.30pm Rural Parishes Development Control Committee Control Committee Aug 11th Oct 6th June 16th 7.30pm Scrutiny Committee 7.30pm Scrutiny Committee 7.30pm Scrutiny Committee Aug 17th Oct 12th June 22nd 6.30pm Lowestoft & Northern Parishes Development Control 7.30pm Area Forum (Lothingland, Oulton & Oulton Broad) 5.30pm Establishment and Workforce Planning Committee Committee Oct 13th June 23rd Aug 18th 6.00pm The Executive 6.00pm The Executive 6.00pm The Executive (Statement of Accounts) Oct 18th June 29th Aug 24th 5.30pm Licensing Committee 7.30pm Area Forum (Beccles, Wainford and Worlingham) 5.30pm Establishment & Workforce Planning Committee Oct 19th June 30th Aug 25th 5.30pm Establishment & Workforce Planning Committee 7.30pm Full Council Meeting 7.30pm Full Council Meeting (Statement of Accounts) 6.30pm Lowestoft & Northern Parishes Development Control July 4th Sept 6th Committee 7.30pm Area Forum (Gunton & Corton and St. Margarets) 7.30pm Area Forum (Beccles, Wainford & Worlingham) Useful Numbers Opening Times Town Hall, Lowestoft ...... 01502 562111 Main Offices Mon - Thurs 8.30am - 5pm Beccles Local Office ...... 01502 713113 Fri 8.30am - 4.30pm Bungay Local Office ...... 01986 892176 Halesworth Local Office ...... 01986 873162 Local Offices Mon - Thurs 9am - 1pm & 2pm - 4.30pm Southwold Tourist Information Centre ...... 01502 723682 Fri 9am - 1pm & 2pm - 4.00pm

East Point Pavilion and TIC, Lowestoft Abandoned Vehicles ...... 01502 523361 Winter 10.30am - 5pm Blocked Drains (Office Hours) ...... 01502 523468 Summer 9.30am - 5.30pm Blocked Drains (Out of Hours) ...... 07770 267055 Car Park Enquiries ...... 01502 523377 Waveney Leisure Centre, Lowestoft Central Control ...... 01502 515435 Waveney Valley Pool, Bungay Ring for a timetable. Council Tax Enquiries ...... 01502 523435 East Point Pavilion and Tourist Information Centre, Lowestoft ...... 01502 533602 How to get in touch Fly Tipping ...... 01502 523468 Let us know what you think of this publication Housing Benefit Enquiries ...... 01502 523436 Post: Town Hall, High Street, Lowestoft, Suffolk NR32 1HS. Housing Repairs ...... 01502 523593 Tel: 01502 562111 Fax: 01502 589327 Email: [email protected] Website: www.waveney.gov.uk Marina Theatre Box Office ...... 01502 533200 MOT Station ...... 01502 565626 Pest Control Service ...... 01502 523101 Refuse Collection ...... 01502 523460

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