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ISSUE 72 - NOVEMBER 2005 ReportsReports

How Fairfield will figure in - ’s Cultural Quarter SPECIAL PULL-OUT SECTION

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LEADER’S Report TAKE advantage Creating a more cultured Croydon OF OUR NEW Ambitious plans that we on the council have of developing a cultural quarter in Croydon into a buzzing reality are now closer than ever. ADVERTISING RATES They are plans that I, as the Leader, am personally committed to, a fact I made clear in a recent meeting with Croydon’s Cultural Partnership, a body that is doing much excellent FULL page from £799 work as a group and with the council. 297 x 210mm Proposals worth more than £2 billion are in the pipeline – schemes that will continue the modernisation of the town centre and equip it with a vibrancy that appeals to residents HALF page from £350 and visitors of all ages. Horizontal- 148.5 x 210mm Much of Croydon’s transformation in recent years has been inspired by the council’s Vision 2020 master plan – a blueprint for the town’s urban renaissance, produced to QUARTER page from £175 acclaim in 1998. It was this forward-thinking document that first identified the potential Vertical - 148.5 x 105mm for developing a distinctive cultural quarter in which leisure, entertainment and creative businesses could flourish. If you would like your business to benefit Since then, we, along with our partners through Croydon’s Cultural Partnership, have from advertising in one of the country’s developed a strategy to enhance the existing cultural offer and establish Croydon as a leading community magazines and would like significant cultural destination. more information, a copy of our rate card or a Concentrating cultural activities housed within historic buildings, attractive open space booking form, please call Paula Howell on: along with restaurants, cafes, bars and shops is seen as a way of reinforcing Croydon’s popular appeal – balancing commercial and architectural progress 020 8760 5644 with entertainment and public participation. A dynamic cultural destination is already taking shape, with the Grants building thriving after its rescue from years of decay, the Clocktower established as a leading arts venue, old favourites including Fairfield and the looking forward to bright futures, new hotels PROVIDING YOU WITH EASY constructed and many more new homes built ACCESS TO SERVICES within the town centre. Our special 12-page section of Croydon Reports, Did you know that you can receive starting on page 7, sets out how far plans for the free help and information at a number cultural quarter have developed and highlights what is of advice surgeries throughout the still to come. I think you will find it a thought-provoking borough? The sessions cover general read, full of exciting ideas designed to make Croydon enquiries, tax matters, pensions, a cultural destination for people who live beyond our housing and council tax benefits, borough boundaries as well as Croydon residents. help from social services and more. We have also included a questionnaire that gives you the opportunity to tell us what you think Available on a drop-in or appointment- of the approach to broaden Croydon’s only basis in: Broad Green, , cultural offer. Fieldway & , , Purley, , Shirley, , and

Go to www.croydon.gov.uk Tony Newman - Leader, and click on the words: Get Local Advice. You will be taken to a page which lists the surgeries taking place, along with full contact details.

This magazine is printed on environmentally friendly, TCF (Totally Chlorine Free) paper, produced from a sustainable source. When you have finished with this magazine please recycle it.

2 Cleaner Safer Greener Designed by croydondesign the in-house business within Croydon Council [email protected] 50729/150M/10 2 & 3 11/10/05 14:07 Page 2 contents 4 4 Rewarding excellence Find out who you voted as the council’s most friendly and helpful members of staff. 6 Contacting the council Got a question? Paying a bill? Need an appointment? Any of the above will be 6 dealt with by the council’s contact centre. Learn how it works. 7 Croydon’s cultural future 7 A 12-page pull-out detailing the council’s blueprint for the establishment of a cultural centre in the town. 15 Acting its age The borough’s leading youth theatre group celebrates its 40th anniversary with its own Ruby. 16 Continuing centuries of tradition 16 Read how the manor’s Fair Field became the town’s Fairfield and south ’s centre for entertainment and the arts.

CROYDON Reports - your local community magazine, full of news, views and information. To contact Croydon Council: 020 8726 6000 , Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 3JS email: [email protected] Council website: www.croydon.gov.uk Community website: www.croydononline.org Cover photo by To contact the editor of Croydon Reports: 020 8760 5644 John Nunn Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 3JS email: [email protected] The next issue will be published on Wednesday, 26 October 2005. Commercial advertising is welcome, but inclusion of an advertisement does not indicate council endorsement of any products or services mentioned. Please ask if you require a translation in a community language, in large print, on tape or in Braille. Cleaner Safer Greener 3 4 & 5 10/10/05 10:49 Page 1

excellenceexcellence People in Croydon have said a big “Thank you” to staff working for the council to mark the hard work and commitment to service they have shown

Earlier this year we asked you to nominate staff members who you he represents and an inspiration to those who are fortunate to felt went that little bit further when delivering the service you meet him.” expected from them. We’re glad to say that virtually all areas of the Vanessa Pain, from housing, was nominated by several council were represented among the nomination forms we received. customers for her persistence and professional care. Customers After carefully sifting through the completed forms, the list of finalists said: “She really put her heart into this case”, and “It’s such a was whittled down to 32, competing treat to see people doing work across nine categories. The category with enthusiasm”. winners were presented with their Outstanding Customer Service Winner Tim Newman was awards at a ceremony in Fairfield in commended by a customer for In the Contact Centre Anita Haylock early October. They were: the support given during a contaminated-land issue and Arti Singh, an environmental In a face-to-face environment Vanessa Pain health officer from the housing Angie Brown for her professional department, was nominated by a On the phone (non-contact centre) Arti Singh customer approach at the Victoria customer with a large family, House pupil-referral unit. including young children, after their In a customer service support role George Fillery Chris Fretwell, a horticultural central heating went off a few days assistant at Greenlawn Memorial In the community Chris Fretwell before Christmas. She was most Park, in Warlingham, was nominated by a colleague. “He impressed with the same-day In particular circumstances Tim Newman delivery of electric heaters to her always goes the extra mile . . . home as no help had been offered In providing a consistently provides an excellent example to by her landlady. outstanding customer service model Angie Brown others . . . he has received many Ken Whittick nominated Pam customer compliments.” Pilcher, leisure manager at Purley In commitment to developing Our finalists came from all swimming pool, after her efforts to customer service delivery corners of the council and all the stabilise the water temperature for and standards Katie O’Donnell staff nominated thank you for a swimathon. He praised her taking the time to recognise their In addressing equalities and “initiative, willingness to keep me outstanding contributions. accessibility issues Pam Pilcher informed, following through, all The Customer Service with a human touch and no Excellence Awards scheme runs defensive red-tape talk. Brilliant.” throughout the year and you can Mr Austin nominated George Fillery, from social services, for complete a nomination on line at his sensitive professionalism with a close relative. “He always had www.croydon.gov.uk/csawards or pick up a form from any time to listen, was compassionate, caring, dependable and a major borough library or the One-Stop reception at Taberner House. Please source of hope and strength throughout a very difficult time . . . an help us to ensure that our staff are recognised for when they deliver outstanding and exceptional individual who is a credit to the people outstanding customer service to you.

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Making contact with your council What is less than two years old, has 356 legs and answers 1.5million telephone calls and takes £250million in revenue each year?

The answer is Croydon Council’s contact A main complaint was that, after calling, centre – a facility which has transformed the they were passed between departments as way people get in touch with the authority it was decided which was responsible for and drastically increased the number of calls that particular call. Callers wanted a service that can be handled without the need of that was accessible to them. In addition to the 120 people who deal transferring a caller between departments. In those days, the switchboard operators with the thousands of telephone calls that The contact centre came into being in were able to complete only about 10% of come in each week, the contact centre’s January 2004, taking over from an outdated calls – that is, to answer questions directly staff include those sitting behind the desks switchboard system which often proved or arrange services to be delivered without in the revenues and benefits office and the frustrating for callers and council staff alike. the need of transferring the call. One-Stop Receptions at Taberner House, The decision to change was taken The current completion figure is at the Zion House in Thornton Heath and the New following extensive consultation with 50% mark and a target of 80% is in the Addington district office. It also takes in the customers. It was found that, for the most sights for next April. council cashiers who, over the course of a part, they were unhappy with the level of Simon Britton, the man responsible for year handle £250million in cash, cheques service they were getting. the smooth running of the contact centre, and credit card payments for council tax, said: “Our aim is to have the same high rent, parking permits and assorted charges. quality of service however people choose For the most part, contact centre staff to contact the council – whether that’s have been recruited from other areas of the by phone, in a face-to-face situation or council’s workforce, some staying on after by writing.” working for external contractors who have The latest stage of the contact centre’s completed their contracted task. development was recently completed with Simon added: “To work in the contact the introduction of the council’s new centre, people have to be calm, friendly, telephone number system, details of respectful, empathetic and sure about what which can be found on the back page of the customer is asking for and needs; this magazine. they’ve got to be able to resolve the customer’s enquiries. “We aim to provide excellent customer service in a friendly and efficient manner and to provide value to the council taxpayer.”

Chris Bandoo is a 28-year-old customer service adviser who has worked in the contact centre for a little over a year. He said: “The work is challenging, interesting and no two calls are ever the same. It’s challenging because some calls really get you thinking about how to deal with them and can often involve your doing some research. “You certainly get a good knowledge of how the council works and you also get to recognise regular callers. “Basically, we’re here to help and to make sure people get a good service when they call the council.”

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spearheads Croydon’s dream There is no doubt that culture has a key role to play in maintaining the momentum of the town’s regeneration. In physical terms, the area being described as a cultural quarter takes in the whole arc from the proposed Gateway arena in the north-east to the Fairfield renewal in the south-east, across busy Surrey Street and through to the restored Pumping Station in the south-west. However, a cultural quarter is more than a Gardens, along with more public art and Croydon’s cultural quarter will provide highlighted map. On the ground it is an area street festivals, will contribute to a lasting a common thread, linking the developments that is characterised by high-quality, readily legacy to be enjoyed for decades to come. and ensuring that, as the town progresses, accessible, commercial and subsidised More than ever, Croydon will be a place it never forgets that human activity must be cultural activity. It is where you go to relax, where people choose to live, work, study at the forefront of development. Inward be entertained and have fun. and socialise – a place that is visually investment has already been pouring in to With culture at their heart, the major, attractive, colourfully illuminated at night the town and there’s more to come. In turn, cutting edge redevelopment projects within and with a new wave of landmark buildings it is expected this will deliver a sense of Croydon’s cultural quarter will introduce contributing to the town’s unique identity. place and belonging, bringing people new amenities appealing to daytime and Moreover, the attractions are set to together and fostering an enhanced evening visitors. become more easily reached by ever- sense of pride. In addition, a new theatre and concert improving public transport particularly if a Turning the concept into reality will also space, a more diverse night-time economy, pre-Olympic extension of Tramlink to rely on the successful conclusion of the better sports facilities, piazzas where Crystal Palace is added and the East redevelopment proposals which the council people can enjoy a sense of space, a London Tube line extension starts has been discussing with those keen on restyled green area in place of The Queen’s operations in 2010. investing in the borough.

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Mindful of capacity issues at peak times, and with the prospect of greater use resulting from successful development of the Gateway site, the council has been talking to Network Rail about improving the present station. A study has been commissioned to explore layout, platform access and the possibility of bridging over the railway lines and creating three new entrances.

While the daily market will remain, the This £700million scheme will bring a council is examining proposals for massive new, three-level shopping centre to redeveloping the old telephone exchange the town including a new department store into loft-style apartments with another new and 100-unit shopping mall. It also includes piazza opening up public space and a town square, bus interchange and featuring more food and drink outlets. The remodelling of The Queen’s Gardens with existing footbridge over the market would the possibility of a more open and be replaced and the council is talking to convenient link through to Fairfield. developers about making this Lend Lease, the Australian redevelopment a focus for developer responsible for artistic and heritage Kent’s Bluewater activities. complex, is now involved and brings a high level of confidence to the project. The John Lewis Partnership is a strong contender as anchor tenant for a new department store. The council has recently won a major public inquiry into a competing scheme – Bishop Court II – and this rejection should quicken delivery of .

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Just behind Surrey Street sits the 150-year-old, castle-style pumping station. An established local icon and an attractive visual feature, the council believes the building could become an ideal base for creative businesses – those businesses which have their origin in individual creativity, skill and talent such as advertising, architecture, the art and antiques market, crafts, design, designer fashion, film and video, interactive leisure software, music, the Fairfield is now 43 years old and, despite the renowned acoustics of performing arts, publishing, software its concert hall, desperately needs updating in order to remain viable and computer games, television and radio. both for audiences and performers. These would, themselves, contribute to the Finding ways of funding Fairfield’s future has been a top priority for several years and cultural vitality of the area. The owner, who several schemes have been explored. While the council’s commitment to Fairfield remains already has planning permission for gym undiminished, the authority is exploring a range of options that will retain its presence in the and leisure facilities, has expressed a town while broadening its appeal. Most of the work to date has been on refurbishing or willingness to work with the council to find renewing Fairfield on its existing site next to , but it is possible that one of other appropriate uses. the redevelopment projects described above may offer the possibility of a brand new Fairfield elsewhere in the town centre.

The council is committed to ensuring that Detailed design work for the £1million, theatre space for the work that the lottery-backed redevelopment of the Warehouse Theatre, currently council’s award-winning Lifetimes located on the Gateway site, gallery is already under way. creates is provided as an When completed, in spring outcome of redevelopment. 2006, the project will include Discussions are under way to refurbished gallery space with that effect. new touch-screens, an online gallery and a new museum education suite. There will also be a review of existing space in the building to ensure that any new facilities required for a successful cultural quarter can be accommodated.

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The council is proposing a 12,500-capacity arena to be a key Croydon has a vast array of cultural feature of a mixed-use redevelopment of this long-neglected activities in which people can get involved. 12.5-acre site alongside . Planning permission for a The Summer Festival 2005 was a huge scheme including offices, homes, retail and leisure uses submitted by the council’s preferred success, with the World Party bursting at developer, Arrowcroft, has been granted. The Government Office for London (GOL) must decide the seams with three stages of world, jazz whether the application should be “called in” to become the subject of an inquiry. and dance music from the UK and further An alternative planning application from the Croydon Gateway Limited afield and the Mela’s four stages of live Partnership is to be subject of a new year appeal after the council was music, dance and community unable to make a decision within the specified time limit. This participation. scheme is backed by Stanhope Schroder, which owns or appears to During its first month, have options over much of the site. Although an arena has not approximately 5,000 people been formally included in the application, discussions on a visited the Crystal Palace possible arena are continuing with both developers. Football Club Centenary exhibition at the Clocktower. Research undertaken by polling company NOP found that A variety of events 77% of those questioned expressed an interest in attending will be taking place three or more of the sporting and entertainment events likely to at venues in be staged in an arena. A higher proportion, 79%, said they were central Croydon likely to combine their visit with shopping or eating locally. during the A further finding was that the Croydon arena would have minimal coming month, impact on audience figures for either the refurbished Wembley Stadium including: complex or the Millennium Dome in Greenwich. 6 November – Alexander O’Neal, Fairfield 8 – Bristol Vic production of Private Following wide-ranging consultation, including asking readers of Croydon Reports in July 2004 Peaceful, Clocktower their priorities for culture, Croydon Council has developed Be Inspired, a new cultural strategy 8 – Of Mice and Men performed by for 2005-2008. This sets out a framework for delivering and improving cultural opportunities in Mind the Gap, Clocktower Croydon and is the overarching document for culture in Croydon. It pulls together strategies 9 – Brendan Shine, that have been developed by the cultural partnership for open space, public art, sport and physical activity, tourism and the library strategy. 19 & 20 – International Playwriting Festival, Warehouse Theatre 22 – Croydon-based London Mozart Here is an outline of what will be delivered over the next three years: Players and Tango Siempre, • More facilities for young people such as multi-use games areas and children’s Clocktower entertainment in parks • More traditional pubs, outdoor cafés and family-friendly restaurants 23 – a performance of Thalidomide! • Safer, cleaner parks and open spaces A Musical as part of the Xposure • Improved borough-wide sports and exercise facilities for all ages Festival, Clocktower. • Opportunities for a more varied programme of entertainment including theatre, live music, classical concerts and cultural activities helping to celebrate cultural diversity • Encouraging open-air markets, small independent shops and creative businesses • New studio/exhibition space in the borough, supporting local artists • A new jazz café in Surrey Street • Investigating funding sources to redevelop Ashburton and Thornton Heath libraries • Croydon Lifetimes Museum redeveloped with Heritage Lottery Funding

If you would like a copy of Be Inspired it is available on Croydon Council’s website at www.croydon.gov.uk

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have your say on cultureculture in Croydon We hope we have given you a taste of how culture is at the root of Croydon’s aspirations to be a more attractive town, offering a wide range of activity to enhance the experience of living here. Naturally, we want it to be better. Your answers to the following questionnaire will help us understand what matters most to residents and to influence the improvements we would like to bring to the town centre and the cultural activities on offer.

1. What would you like to see in the Cultural 3. Do you think that the Surrey Street area and the Quarter? (please tick your preferred three) street market need improving? Public Space Yes No Piazzas Fitness/ health facilities 4. If so, what would you most like to see? Newly based arty and creative businesses (please tick your preferred three) Public art Improved public space, such as piazzas, Street entertainment new paved areas, etc Music venue Attractive and distinct street furniture, such as Theatre provision lighting, seating, signage, etc Arts exhibition space/gallery Restaurants, shops and cafés Other (please specify) A greater variety of market stalls Better quality of product on the market stalls 2. Do you think that the opening of a centre for a Public art number of arty and creative businesses in the Other (please specify) Surrey Street area would help to provide a buzz and a more cultural atmosphere to the town centre? Yes No

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5. Are there sufficient public/green spaces in the 12. If you have never attended Fairfield, or have not town centre? in the past year, please indicate why Yes No Not interested in the events Location 6. If not, which of the following areas should the Condition of the building council enhance? (please tick your preferred three) Cost College Green Not enough information about events The Queen’s Gardens Competition from other facilities in, Gateway site eg, Bromley, the West End Space in front of Grants Parking/transport links Surrey Street Time Other (please specify) Other (please specify) Fairfield 13. If you have visited , from what you 7. Do you believe the redevelopment of Fairfield is experienced and your general impressions, how a good thing for Croydon? would you rate the following aspects of the Yes No venue? Please circle one number from 1 to 5 where 1 represents “Very Poor” and 5 represents 8. Which cultural product would you most like to “Excellent”. If you don’t know, or can’t remember, see in the redeveloped Fairfield? a particular aspect, please leave blank. (please tick your preferred three) Concert hall Meeting areas very poor Excellent Theatre Bar Exterior of building 1 2 3 4 5 Dance studio Art studios Interior of building 1 2 3 4 5 Rehearsal rooms Education workshops Helpfulness of staff 1 2 3 4 5 Conference facilities Cinema Ease of parking 1 2 3 4 5 Gallery Café Public transport links 1 2 3 4 5 Other (please specify) Ease of booking tickets 1 2 3 4 5 Area around Fairfield 1 2 3 4 5 Quality of food & drink 1 2 3 4 5 9. Do you agree that the cultural product of the Heating and ventilation 1 2 3 4 5 Fairfield is more important than the location? General quality of events 1 2 3 4 5 Yes No Specific appeal of events to you 1 2 3 4 5 10. If so, is it important that Fairfield should be one of the following In its current location Nearer the town centre Near East Croydon station No opinion

11. When did you last visit Fairfield Halls? 0 – 6 months ago 6 – 12 months ago One year-plus Never been

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15. Which of the following things would you be The Gateway Project interested in using in the proposed Arena venue? 14. Which of the following events/activities would Restaurants Bars you be interested in attending at the proposed Cafés Shops Arena venue? (please tick your preferred three) Nightclub Health & fitness club Indoor sports events, such as ice hockey, basketball, Community health centre/dental practice badminton, tennis, table tennis championships None of these Other (please specify) Newer/extreme sports, such as indoor snowboarding, skateboarding, windsurfing Family shows 16. How likely do you think you would be to combine your visit(s) to the event(s) you Rock concerts mentioned with either a shopping trip and/ Classical music events or a meal in one of the restaurants? Community/religious conventions Very likely Quite likely Theatre and musicals Not very likely Not at all likely Ice shows Don't know Equestrian events 17. If you are not interested in any of the events or (such as show jumping and dressage) facilities, why is this? Boxing, WWF wrestling and martial arts Nothing of interest Too far to reach None of these Don't know where it is Too expensive Other (please specify) Other (please specify)

About You You do not have to answer the following questions but, by doing so, you will help us assess how representative the responses to this survey are.

18. Where do you live (postcode)? Asian or Asian British Indian Pakistani Bangladeshi Please specify Any other Asian background

19. Are you male/female? Please specify Male Female Black or black British 20. Which age range are you in? Caribbean African 0-16 17-24 25-34 Any other black background 35-44 45-54 55-64 65+ Please specify ARE YOU: White Chinese or other ethnic group British Irish Other white background Chinese Any other ethnic group Please specify Please specify

Mixed Please detach and seal this form and return it to White & black Caribbean White & black African the council using the freepost address overleaf. White and Asian Alternatively, place it in an envelope marked for the attention of: Emma Wiggins, Croydon Council, Any other mixed background 18th Floor Taberner House, CR9 3BT. Please specify All forms returned will be automatically entered into a free prize draw with the chance to win two free tickets of your choice to an event at Fairfield Halls, subject to availability. Cleaner Safer Greener 13 14 - 15 10/10/05 10:59 Page 1

This survey is also available to complete online. To find out more please visit www.croydon.gov.uk. Thank you for taking the time to complete this form. Please return the questionnaire to the Freepost address below by Wednesday, 30 November. The results of this survey will be published in the new year.

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Advanced Data Tabulation Services Freepost NEA 10864 Malton YO17 7ZZ

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Youth theatre group unearths gem for anniversary Croydon Youth Theatre Organisation this month celebrates its 40th anniversary with Ruby, a new work by a local playwright

Croydon Council’s commitment to culture includes all age groups living Mary Wolf, and working in the borough and this month extends its congratulations chairman of the to an organisation that has been helping Croydon’s young for 40 years. committee, said: Croydon Youth Theatre Organisation, based at The Shoestring “The anniversary will Theatre, Oakley Road, South Norwood, offers young people, aged 13 also be celebrated to 25, a chance to become involved in theatre through its theatre with a party for as performance and technical skills workshops and its productions. many former CYTO Ruby, a play commissioned to mark the anniversary, will be members as we’ve premiered from 17 to 19 November. Written and co-directed by been able to locate. Croydon playwright Richard Vincent, the play looks at the life of a During the party we’re CYTO member over four decades and the cast will include former planning to commemorate the contribution CYTO members acting alongside current members. of Marjorie Taylor, the founder of CYTO, Artistic director Viv Berry and the CYTO tutors are theatre who died recently at the age of 92. “Miss professionals with a wide variety of experience and qualification. Taylor was a member of Youth Service staff Apart from age, the only criteria for young people wanting to join in 1965, and CYTO’s creation and continued CYTO are that they must live, work or study in, or near, Croydon. The existence is a credit both to Croydon Council’s willingness to support organisation is a charitable/non-profit company run by a voluntary good things for young people and to generations of volunteers who management committee working closely with the council’s youth have ensured that CYTO has continued to give a very special service, the group’s principal funder. opportunity to thousands of Croydon’s young people.”

ADVERTISEMENT Black History Month Ideas… not just for October! A celebration of the contribution made to British culture by black and ethnic minority people Croydon Local Education Authority, organiser of this year’s Black History Month schools showcase day, would like to thank the following local businesses for their sponsorship and support, helping to make the event a great success:

Solid Homes www.solidhomesproperty.com 020 8683 6499 email: [email protected] Ebony Online www.ebonyonline.net email: [email protected] www.croydon.gov.uk/business/bussectors/surreystmarket 020 8681 0044

“The showcase day is about schools sharing ideas and best practice in mainstreaming race equality in teaching and learning, keeping the subject alive throughout the year. Promoting positive contributions by black people to British history helps build awareness and improve people’s confidence in their cultural heritage.” Councillor Louisa Woodley, cabinet member for education, youth and lifelong learning 16 & 17 10/10/05 10:45 Page 1

The cultural centre of the town for more than 40 years, Fairfield is set to continue its prominent role into the future. Croydon Reports looks at the early days of the fifth of the Seven Wonders of Croydon.

It could easily have been called the Park Lane Hall or the Millenary maidservants and farm labourers were hired. Over the years it Hall. Then again, if the suggestion of Councillor Mrs Maycock had became a leisure fair and, by the 1850s, had become notorious for held sway, it would have been the Allen Kirby Concert Hall. its rowdy customers who travelled to the town simply to make But, in the end, the council committee responsible for the mischief and cause trouble. inauguration of Croydon’s new public halls The fair was eventually suppressed to the settled on Alderman J A Clinch’s proposal, accompaniment of some lively rioting, in the name that has become synonymous with which visitors repaid the town’s hospitality entertainment in Croydon – Fairfield Halls. by breaking some of the most respected heads With the benefit of hindsight, the chosen in Croydon. name does have an air of the obvious about it. At that point, Fairfield was bought by the The new complex had, after all, been built on Brighton Railway Company and, until shortly the land which had, for centuries, hosted before the outbreak of World War II, was used as sidings and workshops by the Southern travelling fairs visiting the town. Fairfield under construction, 1961. In 1314, King Edward II granted to the Railway Company. Archbishop of Canterbury the right to hold an annual fair in his Manor of Croydon. Until 1866, when the fair was suppressed, it was The Croydon Chronicle of 4 October, 1856, reporting on held every September on Fairfield on the Vigil and Croydon Fair, revealed that: “Prices for ewes ranged from Morrow of the Feast of St Matthew. 30/- to 35/- (£1.50 to £1.75). Lambs 15/- to 28/- (75p to £1.40). For centuries, Croydon Fair was a trading There were the usual quantity of pleasure booths in the field fair and, perhaps, a hiring fair, where sheep, and the number of pleasure seekers seemed to have cattle and corn were sold and where increased, if we may judge from the quantity of vehicles which lined the streets, and the thousands that came pouring in by rail from the metropolis.”

Croydon Corporation bought the site in 1934 and, in 1955, Croydon Technical College (as it was then known) welcomed its first students, although it was not officially opened until 1960. The rest of the site was a large ground-level car park before work began on the Fairfield Halls. Plans for Croydon Corporation’s new £1,250,000 cultural centre Blake’s Mead, 1930 (site of future Fairfield complex) were in place by 1957 with the intention of its becoming south

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Concert Hall with full orchestra.

The early stewards, mostly During the opening night’s Among the credits in the programme for the Ashcroft retired and giving up their time in concert, attended by The Theatre’s inaugural production are: exchange for bus fares and a cup Queen Mother, a message of coffee, soon had a taste of • Hoovermatic Washing Machine in Wardrobe by Hoover Ltd was relayed from the vicar Britain’s burgeoning pop boom of Perivale. of St George’s, , when, in 1963, The Beatles and • Garden plants courtesy of The Croydon Parks Dept. who wanted to let the then the Rolling Stones Bishop of Croydon, in the appeared. The stewards were London’s home for entertainment and the arts. It meant that audience, know that the issued with cotton wool to Croydon’s rich theatrical tradition could continue despite the loss of church was on fire. protect their ears. the Grand and Davis Theatres, swept aside as part of the town’s But it wasn’t all raucous redevelopment. Lessons learnt in the construction of central rock’n’roll; other acts to tread the Fairfield boards during the first London’s Royal Festival Hall were applied to the new building, years included cellist Jacqueline du Pre, pianist Artur Rubinstein ensuring that facilities were state of the art and acoustics of the and Mantovani, who had a series of annual seasons. Popular acts best possible quality. included Count Basie, Cleo Laine, Cliff Richard and Ken Dodd. The opening-night concert, on 2 November, 1962, attended by The Queen Mother, comprised works by Elgar, Beethoven and Max Bruch, performed by the BBC Symphony Orchestra conducted This is the fifth of Croydon Reports’ Seven Wonders of by Sir Malcolm Sargent.. Croydon. The four featured so far are Beanos, All Saints’ Three days later, the opening production of the Ashcroft Theatre Church in , South Norwood Country Park and was Royal Gambit starring Michael Denison and Dulcie Gray, Whitgift Almshouses. With two more to go, we are asking performed in the presence of Dame Peggy Ashcroft, after whom the what you, the readers, consider to be your personal theatre had been named. Wonder of Croydon. We hope to take the total to 10 and The Arnhem Gallery was the third large space to be housed within numbers eight, nine and 10 will be decided on by your the complex and was so named to signify the link between Croydon votes. The names of all who vote for the most and the Dutch town of that name. It was designed as a versatile popular selection will go into a hat space, suitable for exhibitions, conferences, banquets, dances and and the winning name concerts of a more intimate nature, such as recitals and folk. will, provisional One of Fairfield’s stalwart organisations was established shortly upon permission after the opening of the complex, that of the Corps of Stewards. being granted, visit This voluntary body, which has patiently and diligently checked their choice with the tickets, shown patrons to their seats and helped with visitors’ Mayor of Croydon, queries made the headlines of the local press in the early 1990s Councillor Maggie when it tried to resist admitting women to its all-male ranks. Mansell, on a mutually After initially defeating a motion from then Labour group leader agreed date. Councillor Mary Walker, who called for a new corps which adhered To register your to equal opportunity policies, the inevitable eventually happened vote write to the editor or and today’s corps comprises both men and women. email: [email protected]

Cleaner Safer Greener 17 18 &19 10/10/05 10:26 Page 1

Transport to cultureculture Ease of access is going to be a major consideration in the success of Croydon Council’s plan for a cultural quarter in the town centre

Tramlink (Existing) Tramlink Extensions under construction Aspirations for further extensions Cross River Tram Scheme South London Partnership Area Town or district centre Motorway Major Road Underground Station East London Line extensions

A key factor in the development of more planning work. Crystal Palace will be As well as making getting to the Croydon’s cultural quarter is, inevitably, the least expensive to build as much of its cultural quarter far easier, the proposed going to be that of access. route uses railway corridors; the other extensions offer further benefits as routes Almost as important as having the three will be street-running. link healthcare centres in Tooting, Croydon, numerous facilities and attractions in Extensions beyond these would Mitcham, Carshalton and Purley. The place is the question of how people are continue to open up south London, creating planned new critical care hospital in going to get to them – and then home vital accessibility throughout the area. Sutton, on the same site as the Royal again afterward. Crucial additions to the whole system Marsden Hospital and Institute of Cancer, With road congestion and parking would be park and ride. will also benefit significantly with the charges making visitors think twice about Demand for extensions is rising as Sutton line extension. the wisdom of driving into central Croydon, people try the system and realise its With the news that the East London many will be looking for a quick, hassle- benefits, such as reduced unemployment, Line is going ahead with stops at West free journey into town – and the obvious regeneration of difficult-to-access areas, Croydon and Crystal Palace, tram option open to them is Tramlink. level boarding for passengers in extensions will offer south Londoners an But what about those who live beyond wheelchairs or with children in pushchairs, easy route to the Olympic events for which the reach of Croydon’s envied tram system? less air pollution as trams do not emit they are helping to pay. Many living in neighbouring boroughs – exhaust fumes and a turn-up-and-go South London Trams, part of the South and further afield – would be more inclined service with passenger information display. London Partnership is leading the lobby for to sample the cultural delights on offer if The current system is in profit as far as extensions to Tramlink. they could simply hop on a tram and be its running costs are concerned but has yet To find out how to assist with the whisked to the heart of the action. to fully repay installation costs. Laying new campaign, email Theo Spring at At present there are four planned tracks may now be cheaper due to new [email protected] extensions – Streatham to Purley, Tooting thinking which no longer requires moving or call her on to Sutton, Sutton to Morden, and the the utilities like gas and water from 020 8726 0174 Crystal Palace spur which has funding for beneath the tracks.

18 Cleaner Safer Greener 18 &19 10/10/05 10:28 Page 2 Fireworks With bonfire night just around the corner, you may be thinking about buying fireworks or attending firework events. We want people to enjoy themselves, but also to stay safe. Fireworks are harmless if you use them properly but unfortunately last year there were 153 reported injuries in the south-east and a 42% increase in firework-related injuries at family or private parties in Great Britain (figures from DTI). If you’re putting on a home display, you should follow these simple steps to make sure that everyone has a good time without getting hurt. • Buy only fireworks marked BS7114. • Don’t drink alcohol if setting off fireworks. • Keep fireworks in a closed box until ready for use. • Follow the instructions on each firework. • Light them at arm’s length, using a taper. • Stand well back. • Never go near a firework that has been lit. Even if it hasn’t gone off, it could still explode. • Never put fireworks in your pocket or throw them. • Always supervise children around fireworks. • Light sparklers one at a time and wear gloves. • Never give sparklers to a child under five. • Remember that, under new regulations, it is not only an offence for the under-18s to possess fireworks in a public place but also for anyone to let fireworks off during night hours (11pm to 7am). Police have the power to issue penalty notices for disorder for these offences. Bonfires present additional hazards when it is dark and if you must light a bonfire for your fireworks display ensure that: • It is sited well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs • No pets or children are hiding inside before setting it alight. • The stack is built so that it is stable and will not collapse outward or to one side. • Flammable liquids – paraffin or petrol – are NEVER used to light the fire. • Foam-filled furniture, aerosols or tins of paint and bottles are not burnt. • Everybody, especially children, keeps away from the fire. • Buckets of water, the garden hose or a fire extinguisher are ready and easy to hand in the event of an emergency. • Embers are doused in water before you leave. • Always buy fireworks from a reputable shop. Whatever you do, don’t buy fireworks from anywhere you’re not sure about. Shops have to register or obtain a licence from the council’s trading standards department to be allowed to sell fireworks. Although fireworks are fun for us, most animals get very scared by the bright flashes and noise and should be kept indoors, including pets that are normally kept outside, such as rabbits or guinea pigs. Close windows and doors and try to drown out the noise as much as possible.

Cleaner Safer Greener 19 20 & 21 11/10/05 11:50 Page 1

North-west residents get a voice Residents in the north-west of the borough now have a recognised body through which they can have their say about local services People living in wards running across the “top” of the borough, from service and answer questions, and it will also get involved in key Waddon across to and up to Upper Norwood, now have decision-making groups within the area. access to the North West Croydon Regeneration Residents’ Forum. The forum is currently developing its constitution on the way to The forum is open to all tenants and leaseholders of the council becoming a community association and is keen to welcome new or local housing associations, as well as private owners who live on members with energy and commitment. their estates within the area. The forum reflects the fact that social housing landlords • Do you live in the north-west Croydon area? recognise that they have a major role in supporting their • Are you are a council or housing association resident? communities, and that this role goes beyond dealing with repairs or collecting rent. • Do you live on one of their estates as a leaseholder Also, social housing residents often live in areas where levels of or freeholder? need for regeneration are high and, as such, it is vital that their • Are you are interested in finding out more about the voice is heard when planning services. Therefore, although the North West Croydon Regeneration Residents’ Forum? forum is run by residents it receives financial and practical support from a range of landlords. The forum’s main role will be to ensure that the views of social If the answer to any of these questions is “Yes”, please contact housing residents are considered when key decisions are made Keith Hoare, the housing department’s community investment about local services or regeneration projects. To achieve this, the manager, by email at [email protected] or by calling forum will invite key officers to its meetings to explain about their 020 8726 6100 extn 64059

Book of condolence for AsianAsian earthquakeearthquake victimsvictims Relatives of Croydon residents were among those affected by the devastating earthquake that wrought havoc in south Asia in early October. To mark the borough-wide expressions of sympathy, civic leaders joined with members of Croydon’s Asian community in being the first to sign a Book of Condolence in the town hall. The signing was led by the Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Maggie Mansell, who said: “No one can have failed to be shocked by the stories and pictures of devastation following the earthquake. “Our deepest sympathy is with all those in the Kashmir region and for the many in our own borough with family or loved ones living there.” Croydon residents are being invited, in addition to contributing to the nationwide appeal for donations to help survivors and the recovery efforts, to show their sympathy for the victims by signing the borough’s Book of Condolence. The book, in the shadow of a burning candle, has been set up in the ground floor reception area of the town hall in Katharine Street and is moved to the Clocktower, next door, at weekends.

20 Cleaner Safer Greener 20 & 21 11/10/05 09:53 Page 2

Cowboy rides off into the sunset Six things you didn’t know about Croydon’s If Del Boy’s mate Trigger’s broom – the same one he’d used for 20 road sweepers years – had worn its way through 17 heads and 14 handles, Derek Martlin’s must have had about 36 heads and probably 30 handles, 1 Over the course of one year, Croydon’s road sweepers brush because he’s been sweeping the streets of Croydon for 42 years. their way through about 1,150 brooms. But Derek has now put the broom into The music hasn’t always brought storage and hung up his high-visibility jacket unbridled joy, however: “I used to have a 2 A team of 143 road sweepers for the last time and is looking forward to a really good collection of old country & are out in all weathers waging long, peaceful retirement, sweeping up after western and rock’n’roll LPs but, when I was the war against litter on the only himself and indulging in his abiding on holiday in Nashville, my flat was borough’s streets, footpaths and passion, ‘50s rock’n’roll burgled and they were shopping centres. and country & western “I went to all taken. That was music. St Christopher’s, in the years ago; I concentrate 3 The average length of a Croydon It’s his love of the on CDs now, and I’ve road sweeper’s round may be music of the likes of London Road; it’s gone got a few of them.” “only” 6.5km (four miles) but, Now aged 61, Hank Williams, Patsy now, it’s all houses. when zig-zagging across Cline, Chet Atkins and he has taken early footpaths is taken into Earl Scruggs that I came to work for the retirement on health consideration, the actual distance earned him the grounds, having worked walked is usually greater. nickname of “Cowboy” council and have been on streets all over among his colleagues at sweeping ever since” the borough since 4 All the borough’s road sweepers the council’s Stubbs leaving school. work out of the council’s Mead depot in Factory Lane. And his “I went to Stubbs Mead depot in Factory affinity with rockers such as Elvis Presley St Christopher’s, in the London Road; it’s Lane, Waddon. and Carl Perkins played more than a small gone now, it’s all houses. I came to work part in his decision to adopt the for the council and have been sweeping 5 The move to a barrow-based magnificent ever since,” Derek said. service was a conscious decision quiff he Having started work for the council, he taken in order to allow the road sports so has worked for the various companies that sweepers to get to know, and proudly. have won the council contract over the develop relationships with, the years and leaves as an employee of people on their round. Cleanaway, the current contract holder. Over the years, he has made many 6 Road sweepers these days cover friends, both among colleagues and a broad range of age and ability – members of the public who have grown to and the job is no longer the sole recognise his cheery face around Croydon, preserve of men; it’s becoming an but from now on he might say, as his hero increasingly common sight to see Hank Williams once did: “I ain’t got nothing women wearing the distinctive but time.” Enjoy it, Cowboy. blue and yellow uniform.

Cleaner Safer Greener 21 22 & 23 10/10/05 12:22 Page 1

Council Meetings Neighbourhood Partnership Meetings Scrutiny Meetings Other

All council and scrutiny meetings will take place in the town hall, unless otherwise stated. MEETING SCHEDULE Date Meeting Time 1 Nov Scrutiny and Overview Committee 7.00pm 2 Nov Neighbourhood Partnership (Thornton Heath, Bensham Manor and West Thornton) 7.30pm 3 Nov Development Control Committee 7.00pm 7 Nov Licensing Committee 7.00pm 8 Nov Scrutiny Sub-committee (Working and living) Cabinet member attending: Councillor Ian Payne (answering pre-submitted questions on Economic Development) 7.00pm 9 Nov Social Services Review Panel 7.00pm 9 Nov Neighbourhood Partnership (Coulsdon East and Coulsdon West) 7.30pm 9 Nov Croydon Community Police Consultative Committee 6.30pm 11 Nov Upper Norwood Library Joint Committee Venue Upper Norwood Library, Westow Hill 6.15pm 14 Nov Cabinet 7.00pm 15 Nov Pensions Sub-committee 1.00pm 15 Nov Scrutiny Sub-committee (For a healthy and caring Croydon) 7.00pm 15 Nov Cycle Forum 6.00pm 16 Nov Cabinet Committee (New for Old) 7.00pm 16 Nov Neighbourhood Partnership (Norbury and Upper Norwood) 7.30pm 17 Nov Development Control Committee 7.00pm 21 Nov Cabinet Committee (Customer Focus) 7.00pm 22 Nov Scrutiny Sub-committee (For learning and leisure in Croydon) Cabinet member attending: Councillor Louisa Woodley (answering pre-submitted questions on education and lifelong learning) 7.00pm 23 Nov Standards Committee 6.30pm 23 Nov Neighbourhood Partnership (Fairfield, Heathfield and Shirley) 7.30pm 28 Nov Council 6.30pm 29 Nov Cabinet 7.00pm 29 Nov Neighbourhood Partnership (Purley and ) Christ Church, Brighton Road 7.30pm 30 Nov Corporate Services Committee 6.30pm

These meetings are to be transmitted using webcasting. They can be viewed at: www.croydon.gov.uk/meetingsofthecouncil Licensing Sub-committee meetings are scheduled for the Deadlines for forthcoming Scrutiny Sub-committee public following dates and times but may be subject to late question sessions cancellation. To check, call 020 8726 6000 extn 63876 Noon on each relevant deadline date or 62326. Date Meeting Deadline Date Meeting Time 8 Nov Working and living 10 Oct 2 Nov Licensing Sub-committee 10.30am 22 Nov Learning and leisure in Croydon 24 Oct 8 Nov Licensing Sub-committee 10.30am 6 Dec Safe and inclusive communities in Croydon 7 Nov 10 Nov Licensing Sub-committee 6.30pm 13 Dec A clean and green Croydon 14 Nov 14 Nov Licensing Sub-committee 6.30pm To submit a question to a cabinet member at a Scrutiny 16 Nov Licensing Sub-committee 10.30am Sub-committee Q&A session, email it to 21 Nov Licensing Sub-committee 10.30am [email protected], fax it to 020 8760 5657, print and complete the form at 23 Nov Licensing Sub-committee 6.30pm www.croydon.gov.uk/scrutinyquestion and post it to Scrutiny Public Questions, Democratic and Legal Services,Taberner House, 28 Nov Licensing Sub-committee 10.30am Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3JS or telephone 30 Nov Licensing Sub-committee 6.30pm 020 8726 6000 extn 62529 or 62315

For general information on council meetings contact the Corporate Services section on 020 8726 6000 extn 63876 or 62326 For information on Neighbourhood Partnerships call 020 8726 6000 extn 62564 or 62396 or email: [email protected]

22 Cleaner Safer Greener 22 & 23 10/10/05 12:22 Page 2 novembernovember www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure

FILMS IN THE

Pride & Prejudice U Me and You… 15 ON The Adventures of Arsene Lupin 15 SpongeBob Squarepants U in croydon James & The Giant Peach U Innocence 15 Oliver Twist Silver City 15 U Wallace & Gromit: The Curse GUIDED WALKS & Kinky Boots 12A of the Were Rabbit U WILDLIFE EVENTS Broken Flowers 15 Night Watch 15 Herbie: Fully Loaded U Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants PG Thur 3 Nov A Matter of Life & Death U Le Grand Voyage PG Oliver Twist PG Midweek Meander Le Grand Voyage Meet Mill House Ecology Centre, Windmill Road, Mitcham, at 10.30am. LIVE EVENTS AT THE CLOCKTOWER Nearest bus: 264, 118. Nearest tram: Lane. Floating Wed 2 Nov 8pm Roger McGough: Everyday Eclipses For ages 14-plus. Fantastic tale of the Sat 19 Nov 8pm Sun 6 Nov Fungus Foray island that floated away. The man who’s done more than most to A two- to three-hour beginners’ walk in breathe life into poetry. search of local fungi. Meet at 11am at UPFRONT COMEDY CLUB Sisters Wid Gags London Mozart Players and Tango Dunmail Drive. Nearest Bus: 412 3 Nov 8pm, first act on stage 8.30pm Siempre Tues 22 Nov 8pm Performing separately and together to Sun 13 Nov Sunday mornings on Martin Furey Mitcham Common. create a heady mix of traditional tango with Fri 4 Nov at 8pm, on stage 8.30pm contemporary jazz-influenced arrangements. Meet Ecology Centre, Windmill Road, Martin brings an eclectic mix of traditional Mitcham, at 10.30. Nearest buses: 264, and contemporary songs and tunes. Thalidomide! A Musical 118. Nearest tram: Beddington Lane. Written and composed by Mat Fraser Private Peaceful For info call 07768 632719 Wed 23 Nov 8pm (BSL-interpreted Tues 8 Nov 8pm For ages 8-plus performance) A PC-free musical with a Sun 20 Nov Cattle, Sheep & a Fox Private Tommo Peaceful, a young First short-armed punch. on World War soldier is awaiting the firing Meet 10am, Reddown Road exit from squad at dawn. Mermaid and the Mirror Thur 24 to Sat 26 Nov, 11am & 2pm Coulsdon South station. Two-hour walk. Nuru Kane and Bayefall Gnawa on Thur & Fri, 11am on Sat Please use public transport. Wed 9 Nov at 8pm, on stage 8.30pm Approx 40mins. no interval. Some British Start: Coulsdon South station. Nuru Kane wowed the audience at the sign language. For ages 3 to 7 years Nearest bus: 405. Finish: The Fox, public 2004 Festival in the Desert. Meet a mermaid who has left her house, nearest bus 466 for central underwater world for a life on land. Croydon, 404 close to Coulsdon South Of Mice and Men by Mike Kenny Thur 10 to Sat 12 Nov This production has been commissioned by Station Thur & Fri 1.30pm, Fri & Sat 8pm Xposure 2005 Sun 27 Nov Managing Happy Valley (BSL-interpreted performance Friday 8pm) EXHIBITIONS A two-hour stroll. Meet at the Farthing For ages 11-plus. An extraordinary tale of friendship, loyalty and the power of dreams. Crystal Palace Football Club Downs car park at 2pm. Nearest Bus: Centenary Exhibition 60, 405. Nearest train: Coulsdon South, NB: New exhibits on display from 10 Nov. walk up Downs Road 1 mile FREE Clocktower Gallery Sun 20 & Sun 27 Nov Tree planting Kukku Husain: at South Norwood Country Park A Blend of East and West Join the countryside wardens planting Exhibition blending eastern patterns and trees to regenerate the woodland strip architectural relief work with contemporary at Elmers End as part of National Tree and modern abstraction. From 15 Nov 2005. If All The World Were Paper FREE Café gallery Week. Both Sundays between10.30am Wed 16 to Sat 19 Nov and 4.00pm. Suitable for families, tools Wed 1.30pm, Thurs & Fri 10am and provided. Nearest Tram: Arena. 1.30pm, Sat 11am & 1.30pm For details and prices call Nearest Bus: 312 50 mins, no interval. For ages 2 to 5 years Croydon Clocktower Ticket Office on For info call 020 8656 5947 Britain’s leading creators of theatre for the 020 8656 5947 very young, on a magical, multi-sensory Get a Clock It! deal: journey of discovery. Four shows for only £26

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Calling Croydon Council We’re making it easier for you to contact us Most of the work we do for you can be grouped in to just a dozen areas. So we’ve set up 12 distinct phone numbers – each of which will be answered by staff with specialist knowledge. From now on you can get straight through to someone who really understands your specific needs. This will make calling the council quicker, simpler and more efficient. If you’re not sure who you need to speak to, call our new general enquiries number – 020 8726 6000.

Housing 020 8726 6100 For all council tenancy issues, housing options and private sector housing enquiries.

Environmental Reporting 020 8726 6200 For reporting pests, dead animals, litter, dog mess, leaves, graffiti, noise,

missed rubbish collection and fly-tipping, to arrange bulky waste collections and get information about trade waste and recycling.

Registration Services 020 8726 6300 To notify change of address, arrange for the registration of births, marriages and deaths, find out about Croydon crematorium and cemeteries, arrange to attend a citizenship ceremony and get information about election matters.

Children, Youth, Families 020 8726 6400 For information and assistance concerning child protection, drug and alcohol Schools services, adoption and fostering, children with a disability and other family social services issues. For information about school places, Early Years and childcare, special needs education, general education enquiries, bullying and harassment, student loans, youth services and making complaints about education. Social Services for Adults 020 8726 6500 For information and assistance concerning homecare, residential care, drug and alcohol services, mental health, domestic violence, learning disabilities and physical disabilities (including sensory impairment). Business Advice & 020 8726 6600 For business advice (for rates contact Revenues and Benefits) and working in Council Partners partnership with the council. Life in the Community 020 8726 6700 For consumer advice, health and safety, crime and disorder, antisocial behaviour and harassment issues. Planning & 020 8726 6800 For advice and application information on planning and building control issues. Building Control

Leisure & 020 8726 6900 For information and assistance concerning libraries, parks, sports and leisure Continuing Education centres, leisure events, continuing education training services (CETS) and further education. Revenues & Benefits 020 8726 7000 For advice and applications on housing and council tax benefits, business rates and other benefits, payment of council tax. Streets & Transport 020 8726 7100 For reporting street lighting, street cleaning issues, road damage and safety, trees, abandoned vehicles and parking issues; and advice on supported travel services.

General Enquiries 020 8726 6000 For ‘Who do I contact?’ enquiries, asking for someone by name, general information requests, council job vacancies, council and community meetings information, language support services and Minicom communication.