YourCroydon ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007

Hello Calat, goodbye Cets Page 6

Walking through ’s green and pleasant land Page 11

Time to vote for your favourite market stall Page 19 Getting involved with Neighbourhood Partnership Page 12 TAKE advantage Opening up OF OUR COMPETITIVE contents ADVERTISING RATES Croydon FULL page from £799 8 Healthy schools 297 x 210mm Providing a place where children can grow to become adults who can HALF page from £350 make healthy lifestyle choices. Horizontal- 148.5 x 210mm 10 Kitchen heat QUARTER page from £175 Once again it’s time for the borough’s Vertical - 148.5 x 105mm curry chefs to show their worth – and

If you would like your business to benefit from this year there’s a complementary advertising in one of the country’s leading competition. Bus heroes honoured community magazines and would like more The chance of a rare peep behind information, a copy of our rate card or a 14 Green awards Street wardens’ swift reactions rescue boy trapped under bus usually-closed doors booking form, please call: The council and the Croydon When they saw a schoolboy trapped under a Councillor Derek Millard who praised the pair The capital’s biggest architectural festival, Paula Howell % 020 8760 5644 bus, two of Croydon Council’s street wardens for the cool, calm manner in which they dealt Guardian pull together to find Open House , provides the annual knew they had to act fast. with a potentially life-threatening situation. opportunity to experience buildings in the the borough’s greenest citzens Neville Sharp and Nathan Thompson The incident happened when the youngster flesh, and better understand architecture and businesses. immediately organised a group of 10 tripped and fell beneath the wheels of a bus and the urban fabric. bystanders into a team which rolled up its in Katharine Street as he tried to catch it. And, as usual, Croydon will be taking 16 Planning your town sleeves and lifted the bus off the ground just He was trapped under the bus, suffering a part in the celebration of the capital’s high enough for Haling Manor pupil Corey broken leg and cracked pelvis. The council’s consultation document design excellence. gives you a say in the shape the Wilson to be dragged free. Nathan and Neville are pictured with the Croydon of the future will take. Their quick thinking has now been rewarded Mayor at the presentation of their citations A growing number of buildings across the with citations from Mayor of Croydon at . borough are planning to throw open their This magazine is printed on environmentally doors and allow the public a rare peep inside friendly, TCF (Totally Chlorine Free) paper, 17 Go online for school places over the weekend of 15 and 16 September. produced from a sustainable source. When If your child is starting at either As Your Croydon went to press, the following you have finished with this magazine please primary or secondary school in recycle it. Drawing on experience buildings had confirmed their intention to September, log on for a head start. take part in this year’s event, with more regarded illustrations, which have been Local cartoonist’s international expected to add to the list: published in more than 70 newspapers and work on show • viewing gallery magazines around the world. Visitors to still have a few • Alex has also illustrated several books and, days to catch an exhibition that has sparked • Church of St Michael and All Angels as a leading authority on cartoon art, often a deal of interest over the past month. • speaks to the media and societies. To contact Croydon Council % 020 8726 6000 It features the work and satirical humour • Airport House Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 3JS His portfolio includes cartoons for The Daily of world-renowned Croydon cartoonist • Whitgift Almshouses email: [email protected] Alex Noel Watson. Telegraph, Private Eye, Daily Express, The Council website: www.croydon.gov.uk Observer and The Evening Standard; Punch, Some of these properties will require Community website: www.croydononline.org The Spectator, New Society, New Statesman, advanced booking. Further details about The New York Times, The New Yorker and his opening times will be available on the Open home town’s Croydon Advertiser. House website at www.londonopenhouse. org and in the Open House Guide, which will To contact the editor % 020 8760 5644 Alex, who lives in , worked at the be available at borough libraries in August. Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon, CR9 3JS Croydon Advertiser as staff cartoonist, film email: [email protected] reviewer and feature writer, while continuing Call for entries: Open House is now to draw cartoons for national newspapers. accepting suggestions of new projects and The next edition of Your Croydon will be published on Wednesday 26 September developments from architects’ practices, for 2007. Commercial advertising is welcome, but inclusion of an advertisement does not The exhibition runs until Saturday, 28 July, possible inclusion in the event. indicate council endorsement of any products or services mentioned. at Croydon Clocktower, Katharine Street. Entitled From the Croydon Advertiser to The Opening hours are Monday to Saturday, Details should be forwarded to press@ New Yorker, the collection spans Alex’s highly 9am to 6pm. openhouse.org.uk for consideration.

 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007 Designed by croydondesign the in-house business within Croydon Council [email protected] 70409/150M/4  YOURCROYDON ISSUE 6 - april 2007  Looking after number ones Best bib and tucker Treble Dutch Walking Caring for baby – now and in the future Croydon’s links with its Dutch twin, A smart new look Arnhem, recently received a boost With the alarming fact that one baby creates The scheme, similar to those running in 20 to welcome visitors with the arrival of a youthful trio for health an average of 52 bin bags full of disposable London boroughs, will be open to 150 low- Croydon has long enjoyed the benefits of, nappies in a year, Croydon Council is acting income families and the council predicts The first stage of a phase of improvements and opportunities presented by, its links with With long, warm evenings in to bring that figure down. that if three-quarters of that group make to the way Croydon Council handles face- the Dutch town of Arnhem. the switch a permanent one, more than to-face meetings with the public has been prospect, this is the ideal time of Borough mums are to be given a financial Since 1946, when the link was established 90 tonnes of waste could be diverted from implemented. year to switch off the TV and get incentive to leave disposable nappies on the following the extensive bombing suffered by landfill in only two years. out in the fresh air for an after- supermarket shelf and adopt the reusable Staff at the council’s One-Stop reception both towns during World War II, there have work walk cotton variety. A family could save more than £500 a year desks and public enquiry counters have been been many social, sporting, business and by switching from disposable to cotton issued with smart new uniforms, making it civic exchanges conducted. Croydon Council is continuing its series nappies laundered at home – even taking easier for visitors to differentiate between One of the most recent was the arrival of Active Lifestyles Evening Health Walks into account the purchase of a washing reception staff, other council workers and on the doorstep of council headquarters throughout August. machine, electricity and washing powder. members of the public. Taberner House of three college students All walks, taking in some of the borough’s Real nappies have the advantage of being The main element of the uniform is a tailored from Arnhem. greenest areas, are free and last made from natural fabrics, while disposables black jacket that is matched, for female staff approximately one hour. Please be at use paper pulp and plastics, and contain members, to a white blouse and a scarf the meeting point 15 minutes before the super-absorbent chemicals. coloured in the council’s corporate purple. scheduled start time. Men will wear a similarly coloured tie with Through the real nappy incentive trial, eligible a white shirt. The introduction of the uniforms will be Due to health and safety requirements, mums will be offered two options: either a followed over the coming months with a all dogs must be properly restrained for month’s free use of a local nappy laundry Each will also wear a distinctive name badge. refurbishment of Taberner House’s One-Stop the duration of the walks. service; or vouchers worth £50 toward the The final choice and style of garments was Reception area that will offer bright new cost of a starter nappy kit. Walkers are advised to wear appropriate decided following consultation with the 50- surroundings and a more efficient system of footwear, come prepared for all weathers, The council hopes that a majority of plus members of staff who will be wearing dealing with visitors to the council’s town- and be aware that all walks may involve those taking up the trial offer will make a the new kit. centre headquarters. hilly terrain. permanent switch and that, gradually, the Thursday 26 July, 7pm benefits of reusable nappies will be widely understood by new mothers. Meet at The Cricketers pub (Harvester) car park, Addington Village Open to higher education? Adinda Hulsebos, Saskia Schoenmaker and Sabrina Daams came to Croydon for what each course involves. Wednesday 1 August, 6.30pm Reaching out to gangs An information day at the five weeks’ work experience in the council’s Meet at tram stop (Tram route 3) Central Library will set you The Open University is Britain’s largest offices, and to get a taste of life in the capital. New appointment to up for home studying toward university (one of the top five UK universities Adinda said: “We’ve really enjoyed our – Sunday Times University Guide 2005), with Thursday 9 August, 7pm coordinate information a degree qualification time here; it’s so different from life in the more than 20,000 students in the London Meet at Fox Lane car park, Old (off The council has announced that it is to Are you considering higher education? Netherlands, things are so much more region alone. Coulsdon Road) appoint a dedicated person to coordinate all Looking to improve your career prospects? Or, relaxed.” perhaps, simply keen to gain new skills and Since its establishment in 1969 it has opened activities in the borough that work to reduce Sabrina admitted that, after five weeks away, Wednesday 15 August, 6.30pm confidence? the door to higher education for more than the negative impact of gangs. she was missing home but added: “I really Meet at Wood car park, two million people. The youth gangs project coordinator will be If you answered “Yes” to any – or all – of the like the people; they’ve shown a real interest Old Farleigh Road the lead person to pull together the work of above, is where you OU courses are designed for people who and helped us all a lot.” should be on Tuesday, 25 September. need to fit their study around their work and Thursday 23 August, 7pm the many agencies involved in gang diversion And horse-loving Saskia had used the trip work. family commitments; studying in their homes Meet at The Good Companions pub car park, The Open University will be holding its annual to experience something she rarely gets the or workplaces, in their own time. The role intends to boost information-sharing advice day on Level 2, between 11am and chance to in Holland: “I went to the races at on young people’s involvement in gangs from 5.30pm, and, in addition to course advisers, A range of teaching media is used on the Sandown and really enjoyed the atmosphere For more information, or for directions to the different agencies, working closely with the there will be display stands and literature on courses, and, with most offering tutorials in and seeing all those lovely horses.” walks, please contact the Walking for Health hand to help you make your decision. study centres throughout London, students police Gang Intelligence Unit. Back home again, the young women are coordinator on 020 8726 6900. study with the support of a local tutor. The coordinator will also work with The library, in Katharine Street, holds the enjoying the summer break before beginning Alternatively, visit www.croydon.gov.uk type community organisations who achieve a lot of reading material for most of The Open Further information about the advice day can university courses; Adinda plans to read “active lifestyles” into the search field in the successful work with young people who are University’s undergraduate courses, so be obtained from Ray Wheeler at The Open administrative law, while her two friends will top right-hand corner and follow the links. involved directly or indirectly in gang life. potential students can take a look to see University in London on 020 7556 6184. be studying social law.

 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007  YOURCROYDON ISSUE 6 - april 2007  David West is a successful businessman who had Kingsley Gregory is a previously been a physiotherapist for leading athletes 73-year-old learner who and footballers. Bringing learning to life attends the Calat power circuit training course. David’s first experience of adult learning with Calat was A change of name but still a tip-top service for those too old for through a French course. He then went on to take a A retired teacher, Kingsley Pilates course, before attending a range of photography school but still keen to learn spends part of his time classes. It was in this area that he found a new interest involved in volunteer work and now runs a successful photography business. From September, the borough’s adult education Dinesh is now much more confident; intends to ranging from driving a provider will be changing its name from Croydon’s continue with his study and hopes eventually to mini-bus, to supporting David has recently exhibited his work at the successful Continuing Education and Training Service (Cets) to get a job. homeless individuals. Our House photography exhibition at the Croydon Calat – Croydon Adult Learning and Training. Clocktower, and another at the Hilton Hotel which He said: “I needed to learn to read and write if I was Kingsley has been engaged in various keep-fit focuses on the personalities of . The name may be changing but the popular provider to get a job, so I started a basic skills course in 2005 and training courses for more than 10 years and of more than 2,000 courses, enjoyed by more than which enabled me to go on and do other courses. believes that this commitment has made, and You can also be a part of some of the many success 20,000 learners every year, remains the same. stories that we experience at Calat. “I like learning and meeting people. Attending Calat continues to make, a significant contribution to learning makes me feel good about myself.” his quality of life. For more information on the courses available, Rosemary Sloman, visit: www.calat.ac.uk or phone 0870 556 1630. head of adult learning Elaine is one of Calat’s and skills in Croydon, We’re aiming to counselling tutors. Wanting explains why the service provide a service to see what counselling was has changed its name. which will make it about and whether or not easier for individuals “We already deliver our she had anything to offer in and businesses to courses from more than terms of her own personal access learning 40 locations, reaching a skills, she first attended a opportunities which wide variety of people, from six-week Introduction to business professionals to Counselling Skills course will enhance the housewives, and teenagers to pensioners. in 1991. lives of people and businesses living and “However, we’re looking at how we can make She said: “The course was interesting and gave working in Croydon. our services even more accessible to everybody me a sense of what skills I would need to develop in the community. should I continue on to a foundation course “The change of name is more than just cosmetic. elsewhere. Calat is making a considerable investment in “I went on to complete some personal development providing more courses, training and support courses and then onto a foundation year and two services for businesses and individuals wanting year diploma level with a year to improve or change their life options, as well as later.“ maintaining services for those who wish to engage in learning on a social basis. Elaine continued training and working as a volunteer counsellor, gaining further counselling qualifications, “We’re aiming to provide a service which will seeing clients, continuing her professional make it easier for individuals and businesses to development, and gradually building up her access learning opportunities which will enhance experience until she became a British Association of the lives of people and businesses living and Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited working in Croydon.” counsellor in 2001. In that same year, she was offered a job with Calat as a sessional tutor and The name may be Some of Calat’s learners share their gained a Certificate in Education in 2003. changing but the experiences with Your Croydon: popular provider Elaine is currently teaching the Introduction to Born in Kenya and leaving school at 14, Dinesh was Counselling Skills and NCFE Level 2 Certificate in of more than 2,000 unable to read or write in his native language, Gujarati. Counselling Skills courses. courses, enjoyed by more than 20,000 As an adult, he came to England to work in the family “What began as initial curiosity has led me to a learners every year, business, which he did for 20 years. When the family career that I find thoroughly rewarding,” she said. business closed, Dinesh sought further employment but remains the same. “I feel I’ve achieved what I wanted, which was was unsuccessful because he could not read, write or to teach. speak English very well. “I remember, on the last day of my diploma, my In addition Dinesh suffers from severe arthritis and is tutor asked each of us what we wanted to do in the registered blind. He has received national recognition, future. I said ‘Teach’ and Calat has helped me fulfil winning an award from NIACE because of his sheer that dream.“ determination to become a learner.

6 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007 7 “Knowing how Croydon works at Taking the reins grass-roots level will better help me New chief executive looks forward understand what the to making a difference members want to Jon Rouse, 39, has become only the sixth chief achieve and how to executive of Croydon Council in the past 70 years. turn their ambition into the kind of He arrives in the borough, after holding the same post actions that residents with the Housing Corporation, with priorities that include really want”. improving customer service standards and ensuring the council gets recognised as an efficient organisation, providing value-for-money services. Intending to build further on the established partnership working practices with the business sector and bodies He intends becoming a familiar figure around the such as the police, he is keen to give a new emphasis borough and will be attending lots of Neighbourhood The wealth of health to the training and development of staff so that they Partnership meetings. Is your school a healthy school? can better perform their public duties. He said: “If you want to know what’s happening We all know how important it is to have a Physical activity Getting to grips with the emerging gangs culture, and in Croydon these are the meetings to attend to find healthy diet and keep healthy with exercise Physical activity doesn’t mean only sport. It covers all helping the town overcome a negative image problem out what is really on residents’ minds. – but what about healthy emotions or activities that children and young people participate in. and become better known outside its boundaries are “I intend to learn a lot about Croydon by walking also high on his agenda. healthy relationships? For example, does your local school participate in the patch. Additionally, he is keen to see an improvement The Healthy Schools programme is working in Croydon the Walk on Wednesdays scheme (WOW), or does it “Knowing how Croydon works at grass-roots level will in performance in the borough’s schools, and in to help schools provide a place where children can promote cycling to school? better help me understand what the members want to the quality of basic services such as keeping the achieve and how to turn their ambition into the kind of grow to become adults who can make healthy lifestyle There are many ways that children can incorporate streets clean. actions that residents really want.” choices, both socially and academically. physical activity into their normal everyday lives Currently, 80% of Croydon’s schools have signed – without the expense of joining a gym! up with the Healthy Schools team and are working together with the school community, including staff, Emotional health and wellbeing parents and children, to improve four important areas This element of healthy schools focuses on developing A healthy school of school life. children’s emotional and behavioural development. works at breakfast It’s about creating a school environment where bullying clubs, after-school Personal, social and health education PSHE is different to traditional lessons like maths, is not tolerated and where all pupils have a voice in clubs, lunchtime school decisions. queues and the English and science in that it is learning for life. time given to eat to In PSHE, pupils might learn about what makes a good A healthy school has clear rewards to promote good create a pleasant friendship and respecting different cultures. They might behaviour and raise self-esteem. receive sex and relationship education, or be told of and friendly eating How can you help your school? environment. the dangers of drinking too much alcohol, and how to stay safe. A healthy school will have met standards set by the Government that consider each of these areas. Pupils learn to understand their own feelings and respect the feeling of others. PSHE is taught in creative To find out what your child’s school is doing, or to offer and interactive ways that give pupils opportunities to to help, ask at your school who its healthy schools practise social skills safely and make informed choices. coordinator is. Healthy eating Remember, all parents can help a school to become There can’t be many people nowadays who don’t know “healthy”. that eating well helps you look and feel better, but We all want the best for our children and healthy healthy eating in school considers more than just the schools will give them the start they need to succeed food at lunchtime. at whatever they do, both in school and out. A healthy school works at breakfast clubs, after-school If you’d like more information, contact the healthy clubs, lunchtime queues and the time given to eat to schools team – Joe Adolphe on 020 8726 7396, create a pleasant and friendly eating environment. or by email at [email protected] or Within the curriculum it teaches skills to budget, shop Caroline Davies on 020 8726 7397, or by email and prepare nutritious meals. at [email protected]

 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007  Cooking for the big prize Are you, or do you employ, a chef producing top-quality Asian or oriental food? If so, here’s your chance to shine Croydon Curry Chef of the Year 2007 What happens? Battle of the baltis? Those businesses that choose to take part and meet Croydon’s environmental health team is relaunching the the standards, will cook three imaginative dishes: a prestigious Curry Chef of the Year Award. starter, a main course and a rice, naan or noodle dish. The guided walks are conducted by The award celebrates the huge variety of curries safely There will be two-phased judging with a cook-off for the knowledgeable staff cooked in Croydon, and praises the creation of an finalists. Each dish will be judged on its flavour, texture, interesting and tasty menu of Asian food. appearance and aroma by a panel. who are able to talk about the history Is your mouth watering yet? This year, top chefs from restaurants across the of the land they are borough are to be invited to compete against each covering and can other for the hotly contested title. At the cook-off A guided walk point out interesting The popular competition creates a real buzz among Special guests are invited to our event facts about the plant local Indian restaurateurs. Are you interested? with an opportunity for high-profile publicity and animal life that throughout Croydon. inhabit it. There will be exhibit stands for local businesses on the wild side and residents to view new products and services See Croydon’s greener side with a little “I’ve never been to this part of the wood before and the available to them, and a multimedia centre help from the experts walk’s been very interesting; it’s nice to see all the plants for delegates to surf the net to review food coming through, and the guide’s been excellent.” websites. Croydon is blessed with many public green spaces – some ordered and neatly manicured, others retaining Mark Trompeteler admitted that, despite living in nearby There will be a tantalising display of the food more of a natural feel. Forestdale for 28 years, he’d never previously walked cooked by the finalists, and lively demonstrations through Littleheath Woods. All, however, have a couple of common traits: they are of Asian and oriental cooking, including noodle managed – most of them by Croydon Council – and they pulling and sugar-craft techniques. form a valuable leisure resource for the people who live 2005 Curry and work in the borough. Chef winner The competitions To heighten the enjoyment obtainable from those Manzoor Ahmed green spaces – be they parkland, garden, heathland Do you own or manage a local food business? Tabaq II or woodland – the council hosts a free, year-round Does it produce Asian, Bangladeshi, Malaysian, programme of guided walks and events. Sri Lankan, Pakistani, Indian, Chinese, Japanese The guided walks are conducted by knowledgeable or Thai food? staff who are able to talk about the history of the land Is it a noodle bar, takeaway or café, producing they are covering, and can point out interesting facts Croydon Oriental Chef of the Year 2007 tasty Asian- or oriental-style food, safely and about the plant and animal life that inhabit it. Superb sweet and sour? hygienically? A recent walk through Selsdon’s Littleheath Woods The team is also pleased to announce the launch of a Would you like the chance to win these prestigious on a bright, clear morning was attended by more new competition – the Oriental Chef of the Year. awards, gain huge publicity and lots of first-class than 20 people. prizes for yourself and your business? Ranging in age from three-year-old Oliver to several It offers local oriental restaurants the first opportunity retired folk, the group was led by community partnership for their business to benefit – and for their chef to be Would you like to get involved? officer Meike Weiser who, over the course of 90 minutes, “It’s been extremely enjoyable and very informative recognised as the king of the king prawns. The events will be taking place in the autumn and chefs identified many varieties of woodland plants, described – Meike’s been an expert guide and I’d recommend one The award covers all oriental-style food premises within from local businesses wishing to compete, should get in the antics of the woods’ animal population, and of these walks to anyone. touch at the earliest opportunity. Croydon, including Japanese, Chinese, Malaysian and answered the questions that arose. “It’s exactly the sort of community provision that we Thai food restaurants, noodle bars, take-aways, bars The award ceremony will be open to the public, but by Littleheath Woods were not new to local resident expect from the council and it’s the sort of thing that A recent walk through and cafés. invitation only. Kaye Taylor but the walk took her to parts she had should get more publicity.” Selsdon’s Littleheath Chefs entering either competition must hold For more information, or to register your interest, not previously visited. Details of the programme of guided walks can be found Woods on a bright, the minimum level of food-hygiene training, either as a competitor or spectator, call the council’s She said: “My son and I often walk here on the way at www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure/events. Alternatively, clear morning and the business must have a written statement food safety team on 020 8760 5436 home from school. I saw a sign publicising this walk call the community partnership officer on 020 8726 was attended by of its food-safety management systems. or email [email protected] and thought it’d be nice to see what it had to offer. 6900 ext 64952 more than 20 people.

10 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007 11 Everyone who attends a meeting is sent a copy of the Contact minutes and is included on the relevant mailing list as a The Neighbourhood Partnership team is here member of the partnership. to assist you. Agendas, minutes and reports are published on the Write to Neighbourhood Partnership Team, Policy Croydon Online website at www.croydononline.org/ & Corporate Services, 5th floor South side, Taberner neighbourhood_partnerships/ House, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3JS. Keeping local people informed Alternatively, you may call 020 8726 6000 Neighbourhood Partnership has proved to be: ext 62396, 62564, 62811; email: [email protected] • a complementary medium for providing information or visit the website at: www.croydononline.org/ – about boroughwide developments which have an Neighbourhood neighbourhood_partnerships/ impact locally; Partnership is for people with a local • a facility that can be, and has been, used to consult Charles Trefusis, chairman connection to get Neighbourhood Partnership about a wide range of issues, informing aspects of of Purley and Kenley NP, policy development and service delivery; together with their said: “Neighbourhood ward councillors and Everything you ever wanted to know but were afraid to ask • an opportunity for people to raise and discuss Partnership is an important people who provide local concerns. interface between the You may have heard about Neighbourhood Many of those involved belong to local groups and the services. council and the local Partnership, or seen it mentioned in this organisations – for example, members of more than 100 residents’ associations regularly take part. Graham Lomas, chairman community. magazine, but never really understood of Coulsdon East and “I believe that an NP what it entails. If that’s the case, read on The meetings are supported by a small dedicated Coulsdon West NP, said: “If has to be a two-way team from the council’s democratic and legal Croydon’s Neighbourhood communication and it’s What’s it all about? services division. Partnership did not exist, important for councillors Getting connected. Neighbourhood Partnership (NP) it would surely have to and council officers to come to the meetings and is for people with a local connection to get together Who goes there? be invented, because we listen to what the local residents have to say. with their ward councillors and people who provide the Overall, two-thirds of attendees are local residents. no longer have units of services we use. Anybody with a “local connection”, who lives, government operating at “I want to give a voice to the greatest number To promote NP, the level of the meaningful of people. I want there to be an opportunity for To promote NP, Croydon has been divided into 10 works, studies or has business interests in the local community. everybody to express their views. I would, though, Croydon has been areas, combining adjacent electoral wards. area may participate. like to see a greater diversity across the age divided into 10 areas, “The meetings are a device for anyone interested Three meetings a year take place in each area, NP has brought together members of the public and groups. We’d like to be able to better express the combining adjacent to hear what is in the offing, and to challenge and at suitable local venues. Each NP area has an community groups, local councillors, council staff and views of people in their 20s and 30s.” electoral wards. cajole officers and councillors face to face – within independent chairman, elected to serve for two years. representatives from partner agencies, such as the the framework of each meeting agenda. police and the primary care trust. We aim to: “The Coulsdon area is undergoing massive change The next 5 scheduled NP meetings are: currently, which leads to lively, well-attended • facilitate the exchange of information and provide Kail Gunaratnam, chairman Wednesday 5 September meetings, with full agendas.” opportunities for consultation on matters affecting of and South Norwood and Selhurst NP, said: “I’ve been local people; Players’ Lounge Crystal Palace FC • give participants a chance to contribute to the the chairman of our group When and where? Tuesday 11 September planning of services provided by Croydon Council and for just over a year but I’ve Meetings are held on Wednesday evenings – except Purley and Kenley other agencies; been very active in this area for quite some time, having in Purley and Kenley where they’re held on Tuesdays Christ Church Hall, Brighton Road • encourage the development of local projects that lived here since 1964. – and start at 7.30pm, see page 22 for more details. could play a part in the regeneration of the area. Wednesday 19 September “I think NP’s very important If you are interested but unable to come to a meeting, , Croham and Selsdon & Ballards How long has this been going on? because it’s made local at least one meeting a year of each Neighbourhood St John the Divine Church Hall, Upper Selsdon Road We recently had the 200th NP meeting! people aware of the Partnership is recorded for webcasting. Wednesday 26 September facilities provided by the council. It’s a problem- NP was introduced, with cross-party support, on a trial But don’t just sit in front of a computer monitor – go , Woodside and Ashburton solving body and goes some way to resolving most along to your local NP meeting, see at first hand what Ashburton Learning Village, Shirley Road basis in three areas in autumn 2000 and extended to of our issue. Many of those all parts of the borough in mid-2001. goes on, and play a part in the proceedings. Wednesday 24 October involved belong “NP brings people from the community together, You never know, your involvement could be just and Fieldway to local groups Meetings are advertised on posters displayed locally it’s a strong support group. – eg, in branch libraries – and details are published what it takes to achieve something in your area. And Timebridge Youth Centre, Field Way and organisations regularly in Your Croydon. “Our councillors are fantastic, they attend our we’re especially keen to see and hear from younger Wednesday 31 October – for example, meetings and are so committed, and we need members of the community. Broad Green and members of more Is size important? this sort of relationship with the council to get Details of recorded NP and Croydon Council meetings Salvation Army Citadel, Booth Road, than 100 residents’ On average, about 70 people come to each meeting, things done.” can be found in the archive at http://www.croydon. Lower Church Street associations although this does vary considerably. ukcouncil.net/site/webcasts.php regularly take part.

12 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007 13 A & D Pink Environmentally-friendly coffins and caskets made from The environmentally-friendly coffins are produced sustainable materials such as bamboo and wicker in China using traditional skills and come from consolidate Sanderstead funeral directors A & D Pink’s a sustainable resource of bamboo and annually Green green credentials. harvested willow. Adrian Pink runs the business with his wife Diane The emissions released by the bamboo and wicker Daniell-Pink from their premises in Limpsfield Road when buried, or during cremation, are less harmful to and decided to offer this service because they the atmosphere than traditional wooden coffins. considered it important.

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can all change our ...... dotted habits to reduce Awards Your daytime tel no...... Your email address...... line that effect. Award category...... Person/organisation you are nominating...... and send Address...... back

Daytime tel no...... Email address...... to the Why you think they deserve to win (to help the judges, please include as much detail as possible):...... 2007 given How do you halve your fuel bills, teach Alternatively, contact Liz Waters by calling

...... address children about climate change or make 020 8329 9252 or emailing lwaters@london. your business greener and more successful? newsquest.co.uk The Green Guardian website ...... can be visited at www.greenguardian.co.uk ...... All of us have an impact on the environment, so we can Green Guide Essentials book, worth £7.99, while # all change our habits to reduce that effect. stocks last. Send completed form in an envelope marked: Croydon is full of great people who are beginning to “Green Guardian Awards” to Liz Waters, Green Guardian, Unecol House, 819 London Road, North Cheam SM3 9BN make that change, and the Green Guardian Awards It’s your borough . . . it’s your world Closing date is September 7, 2007 scheme is finding out about them, so we can follow their good ideas, and all say “thank you” to these Parish Church Infants pioneers. This year, pupils at Parish Church Infants have planted 30 trees in the playground, begun to recycle cardboard We want to hear from schools, individuals, groups and and paper (with a box in each classroom and in the businesses that have made a noticeable change in their staff room), fruit and vegetable waste and tea bags go “green” habits since September 2006. into the compost bin to be used around the school, and This includes those who are complete beginners, as inkjet cartridges and mobile phones are being sent to well as those who have been actively carrying out good a charity. environmental practice for a long period of time. The school, in central Croydon, now buys recycled You may be doing more to recycle, save energy or copier paper whenever possible and has mouse mats reduce your water use. Perhaps you buy Fairtrade made from recycled rubber. products, or have had a solar panel put on the roof. It also reuses packaging like bubble wrap and, in the This year, Croydon Council has sponsored the schools classroom, “reduce, reuse and recycle” initiatives are category. In May, nine local schools were treated to a being taught. The 2007 awards special assembly with Recycler, the rapping robot. categories are: For more information, or to make a nomination, visit the Green Guardian website at www.greenguardian.co.uk Green Household and click on the awards button. Green School-Primary Green School-Secondary Main sponsor of the 2007 awards is British Gas, along with Croydon Council, Tramlink and Envibe, Croydon’s Green Business environmental business adviser. Young Environmentalist To contact the Green Guardian Awards, call Green Project or Group Croydon Council on 020 8760 5640 Green Champion or email [email protected]

14 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007 15 Croydon’s town centre Apply For School Places Online

in your hands Secondary school applications Children born between 1 September 1996 and 31 Your chance to have a say on the future August 1997 can start secondary school in September of Croydon Metropolitan Town Centre social, cultural and environmental renaissance of the 2008. You can apply for schools in Croydon between 1 Croydon Council’s planning and transportation town centre. September and midnight on 19 October 2007. department has published a planning document Background work has already started on preparing the Primary school applications CMC AAP, both by council officers and others employed for consultation which will influence the future of All children born between 1 September 2003 and 31 Croydon’s centre. on the council’s behalf. August 2004 can start primary school in the school year The Croydon Metropolitan Centre Area Action Plan For example, architects firm SMC Alsop has been beginning September 2008. You can apply for schools Issues & Options Report identifies those issues employed to work alongside the local community in Croydon between 8 September and midnight on 19 – present or foreseen – affecting the town centre and its in drawing up a refreshed vision for the town centre December 2007. future development. It also sets out possible options for and its immediate environs. Last year, more than 1,000 parents More information addressing these issues. The council welcomes any comments on this report applied for a place for their child in one Before you decide which schools to apply for, download You are encouraged to get involved and make known for a minimum period of six weeks, which began on of Croydon’s 118 schools using a new pan- Croydon has made your opinion on the issues and options outlined. 16 July. a primary or secondary school brochure, available by London eAdmission system. visiting www.croydon.gov.uk/education and following it easier for parents What you tell us could help formulate the final version Sign up now to our easy-to-use online consultation the links. to apply for school of the Croydon Metropolitan Centre Area Action Plan tool and make your representations heard: This year, the council is hoping that every application places, by enabling (CMC AAP), a statutory planning document. www.croydon.gov.uk/publicconsultation will be made online. These brochures include the criteria used to decide people to search the order in which children are offered places at each The area action plan will include land-use policies and For further information email [email protected] Croydon has made it easier for parents to apply for school information school. In addition, every school publishes its own proposals that could act as catalysts for the economic, or call 020 8407 1385. for school places by enabling people to search and make applications prospectus, which is given to parents on request. for school information and make applications for both primary for both primary and secondary school places For more information call 020 8726 6400 or email and secondary Are you saving for a non-rainy day? via www.croydon.gov.uk/education [email protected] school places This may not have been the driest of summers, but Sutton and East Surrey Water says it’s still important to conserve water Water is a precious, life-preserving resource – but it has a limited natural supply. The drought conditions of the past two years have clearly shown that existing water supplies can be significantly affected by certain weather patterns. Did you know that an With the implications of climate change yet to be unattended hosepipe resolved, future rainfall and likely weather conditions Consider using water-efficient plants. Sutton and East can use as much remain unpredictable. water in ONE HOUR as Surrey Water produces A Guide to Drought Resistant a family of four uses But all of us can take action now to prevent potential Gardening, packed with advice on how to create a problems arising in the future – by saving water for in TWO DAYS? beautiful and healthy garden in the driest conditions. those non-rainy days. Contact the company’s customer services team on Saving water is something we can all do. It just takes a 01737 772000 for a free copy. Did you know that little care and some prudent action. Cistern displacement – Save-A-Flush sachets taking a bath can and Hippo bags are provided free of charge to Sutton use three times Take a little care and East Surrey Water customers. Slipped into the toilet the amount of Taps – Don’t leave taps running when washing, cistern, they reduce the volume needed to refill the water as a shower? cleaning teeth or rinsing vegetables. cistern. Order them free online at www.waterplc.com Cars – Use a bucket and sponge to clean – not a or by calling the customer services team. Did you know that hosepipe. Water butts – Collect the water that nature provides, one-third of all Machines – Load washing machines and dishwashers and reuse this rainfall on the garden in dry weather. domestic water fully. Remember that, because saving water saves is flushed down Grass – To retain moisture, cut grass less frequently in energy, you can reduce your carbon footprint the toilet? dry weather and raise the lawnmower cutting height. by using water wisely.

16 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007 17 A roof over All tenancies are let on assured Good produce, good service... shorthold tenancies. Landlord can choose It’s time once again for the annual from medium-or-long their heads Good Stalls Surrey Street Good Stall Awards term lets. Surrey Street market is a thriving market with a charter Winners will receive a certificate and become eligible • Households are matched to properties in order to Helping find tenants through the council’s that dates back to 1276 and is a wonderful place to pick for a further Best Show Award, going to the stallholder ensure maximum income for the landlord, who is landlord deposit scheme up everything from fresh fruit and veg to a variety of with the best display in each of four categories – Fruit advised, in advance of letting his property, how foods from around the world. & Vegetables, Other Food, Plants & Flowers, and Non- Are you a private landlord with property to let? much rent he is likely to receive. The tenant may Food. be entitled to receive full or partial housing benefit, The chances are that you shop in Surrey Street market, Croydon Council could help – it works with landlords and advice is also given about tenants’ rental even if it’s only on the odd occasion. Once all the nominations are received, council officers and agents, and offers a range of incentive packages. will carry out inspections and test purchasing exercises. contributions in advance. If so, you’ll be aware that today’s market traders offer The winners will be announced in October. All types of properties are required, including studios, the sort of personal, one-to-one, friendly service that is bedsits, smaller registered houses of multiple Certain properties are not eligible for either scheme. disappearing in our modern, impersonal world. The closing date for nominations is Friday, 31 August. The awards also occupancy, and all sizes of self-contained property. These are: To make a nomination, complete and return the The 2007 Good Stall Awards give regular market give shoppers • Properties that have been purchased from the form below. shoppers the opportunity to say which stall they think the chance to say The following services are available to landlords who council within the past five years under right-to-buy should be rewarded for its high standards of customer Alternatively you can make your nomination online “Thank you” to are able to manage their own properties: arrangements, even if the property was purchased by care and sound knowledge and understanding of food at [email protected] the stallholders who a previous owner. • Deposits and incentive payments paid to landlords hygiene, safety and trading standards issues. or email your nomination to: are there every day, and advice about securing the deposit through one of • Properties that have been purchased from a housing The awards also give shoppers the chance to say [email protected] rain or shine – the Government-backed schemes. association within the past five years under right- “Thank you” to the stallholders who are there every day, Forms are also available from the market inspector by and they can all All types of • Tenants’ housing benefit paid directly to landlords. to-acquire’ arrangements, even if the property was rain or shine – and they can all be nominated. calling 020 8681 0044. be nominated. purchased by a previous owner. properties are • Long-term lets to tenants at current market rates. required, including While the risks of letting privately are not completely The minimum property requirements are:

Good Stall Awards 2007 Nomination Form P lease studios, bedsits, removed, they are lower than renting in the open • A current gas safety certificate if there is a gas smaller registered market as tenants with an adverse history are not I vote for Surrey Street stall number ______because:...... houses of multiple connection to the property; the certificate must be cut

nominated. along issued by a Corgi-registered gas engineer. occupancy, and ...... • A support service to assist with tenancy sustainment all sizes of self- • A current electrical safety certificate. dotted and housing benefit is offered to both tenant and contained property. • Two working smoke alarms...... landlord. line • The landlord selects a prospective tenant from Further advice can be obtained from the council’s What do you think of the stall’s display of goods? Please put an ‘X’ in the relevant box below: and applicants sent to view the property. housing specialist team on 020 8726 6100 or send

from www.croydon.gov.uk by searching “landlord Excellent q Very Good q Good q Reasonable q back • Legal documentation associated with letting the

deposit scheme”. to

property, such as tenancy agreements, notices and Name and address of the person voting:...... the

sample inventory are supplied free of charge. given ...... • All tenancies are let on assured shorthold tenancies. address All types of properties are required, Landlord can choose from medium- or-long term lets. including studios, bedsits, smaller ...... • A full, free survey of the property to ensure that it is registered houses of multiple occupancy

fully compliant with the Housing Health and Safety and all sizes of self-contained property. Post the completed form to: Ruth Matthews, Good Stall Awards 2007, Environmental &Trading Standards, # Rating System as laid down in the Housing Act 2004. Environment, Culture & Public Protection, Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3BT.

18 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007 19 What’s On JULY 07 www.croydon.gov.uk/leisure This is the final instalment of Nature Notes. Over the past D avid Lean – July year, young naturalist Chris Toomey has guided us through Riddlesdown’s changing seasons, bringing its many forms of Molière - Digital Beyond Hatred Children’s & Family Films: wildlife into our homes. AUGUST Fri 3 to Thur 9 August Wed 22 & Thur 23 August Spider-Man 3 (12A)* At the beginning of July, I was walking in a meadow of cricket: the Roessels Common Green Grasshopper Zodiac (15) Grow Your Own Sat 4 and Wed 8 August TBC when a pheasant, which had been resting in the long bush and the oak bush. Fri 3 to Thur 9 August Fri 24 to Thur 30 August grass, started flapping its wings and took off over my Happy Feet (U) Did you know that head. Joe Strummer: The Queen Sat 11 and Wed 15 August the different species The Future is Unwritten Fri 24 to Thur 30 August Fantastic Four: I was very surprised, this was the first pheasant I’ve of grasshoppers and Wed 8 & Thu 9 August Sunshine (15) Rise of the Silver Surfer TBC seen on Riddlesdown. crickets can be identified Flyboys (12)* Wed 29 & Thur 30 August Sat 25 & Wed 29 August I did some research and found out that the pheasant from the differences in Fri 10 to Thu 16 August Pheasent spends most of its time on the ground but roosts in their sounds? Golden Door (PG) trees at night. It has been a good month for butterfly spotting Fri 10 to Thu 16 August There have been lots of caterpillars with spikes and – especially the holly blue and marbled white. Away from Her (12A)* small red spots this month. They are the caterpillar of I noticed that the marbled white stayed in a small Wed 15 & Thur 16 August the peacock butterfly and they feed on nettles. area close to the meadows. Harry Potter and the I noticed that as soon as they are touched, they The holly blue can be distinguished from the Order of the Phoenix TBC fall to the ground – I think this must be a defence common blue as it has small black spots on Fri 17 to Thurs 23 August mechanism, so that they’re not eaten. its blue underwing, while the common blue has I’ve also found three types of grasshopper: the a blue underwing with brown and orange patterns This is England - Digital Peacock Caterpillar Fri 17 to Thur 23 August 18 Away from her The Queen Fantastic Four meadow, the common green and field; and two types at the edges.

CROYDON COUNCIL presents: The Pride of Croydon A competition for the young and the not so young – tell us, in essay or art form, who inspires you. Win a trip to Barbados or the Republic of Trinidad & Tobago to see the artefacts of slavery – including plantation houses, sugar cane Not sure what to do with your exams results? factories and more. Connexions Personal Advisers are on hand to point young people or in the right direction. to The Door of No Return – Ghana Slaves’ final sight of Africa, before transportation by ship to the west Connexions South London will have a number of Personal Advisers available in the Croydon Connexions Centre and in some schools or or colleges throughout Croydon to talk to students about their next move, Become a guest feature writer with GV Media Group for either The whether it will be to go to college, into employment or training. Voice, Young Voices or The Weekly Gleaner. Young people, whether they have done better than expected Other prizes include: and think that there may be more options open to them, or are • A night for two, with meals, at Jurys Inn, Croydon disappointed with results and need to rethink their choices, will have • Dining at The Spreadeagle pub and restaurant Connexions Personal Advisers available to offer help and advice! • Books – a Barclays account • Goodies packages from Nestlé Young people can drop into the Croydon Connexions Centre to talk to • and much more a Personal Adviser who can access all the information needed and For more information visit www.clavelrowepr.co.uk help to make the best-informed decision. and follow the links Your local centre is at: Connexions Croydon, 112 – 114 High Street, Croydon Tel 020 8401 0301 www.connexions-southlondon.org.uk or, for course options, visit www.yourlondon.gov.uk/choice

20 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007 21 Council Deadlines for public questions for forthcoming full council meetings (all start at 6.30pm) Noon on each relevant deadline date. Meeting Deadline

I Monday 17 Sep, 2007 (6.30pm) Monday, 3 Sep, 2007

I Monday 26 Nov, 2007 (6.30pm) Monday, 12 Nov, 2007

To submit a question for consideration at a full council meeting, email it to [email protected]; fax it to 020 8760 5657; print and complete the form at www.croydon.gov.uk/councilquestion and post it to Questions for the Council, Democratic and Legal Services, Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3JS; or call 020 8726 6000 extn 62327

Scrutiny

Deadlines for the forthcoming scrutiny and overview committee public question sessions. Noon on the relevant deadline date. Meeting Deadline Cabinet Member 4 Sep Scrutiny and overview 27 Aug Cllr Gavin Barwell (resources and customer services) 18 Sep Community services 10 Sep Cllr Chris Wright (planning) To submit a question to a cabinet member at a scrutiny sub-committee Q&A session, email it to [email protected]; fax it to 020 8760 5657; post it to Scrutiny Public Questions, Democratic and Legal Services, Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3JS; or call 020 8726 6000 extn 62529 or 62315.

Neighbourhood Partnership

Neighbourhood partnership meetings (all start at 7.30pm) Meeting group venue 5 Sep South Norwood and Selhurst Players’ Lounge, Crystal Palace FC,

I 11 Sep Purley and Kenley Christ Church Hall, Brighton Road, Purley 19 Sep Sanderstead, Croham and Selsdon & Ballards St John the Divine Church Hall, Upper Selsdon Road 26 Sep Addiscombe, Woodside and Ashburton Ashburton Learning Village, Shirley Road

For information on Neighbourhood Partnerships, visit the website at www.croydononline.org/neighbourhood_partnerships/, email [email protected], write to Neighbourhood Partnerships, Democratic and Legal Services, Taberner House, Park Lane, Croydon CR9 3JS or call 020 8726 6000 extn 62564 or 62396

Croydon Community Police Consultative Group

Meetings of the Croydon Community Police Consultative Group are held in the Council Chamber of the Town Hall. All are open to the public and begin at 6.30pm. For further information, go to www.croydononline.org/ccpcg Forthcoming meeting dates are: Wednesday, 19 September; Tuesday, 13 November

Details of all Croydon Council meetings can be found on the council website at www.croydon.gov.uk/meetingsofthecouncil I These meetings are to be transmitted using webcasting. They can be viewed at www.croydon.ukcouncil.net/site/webcasts.php

22 YOURCROYDON ISSUE 10 - AUGUST 2007 23 61326 - Your_croydon_6 13/3/07 16:50 Page 24 Do you have an empty property?

Croydon Council is targeting long-term empty properties in the borough which are empty without good reason. To support this campaign, Croydon offers the following:

■ Empty-property grant of up to £25k per property ■ Private sector leasing with guaranteed rents ■ Sponsored tenancy lettings ■ Rent-in-advance schemes ■ A grant for first-time buyers who are purchasing a long-term empty property with a view to renovating the property and living in it for five years.

Croydon is targeting long-term empty properties which have been empty without good reason, and taking legal action to bring them back into use using compulsory purchase powers (CPO) and empty dwelling management orders (EDMO). Contact Croydon Council’s housing department for advice and assistance to get your property back into use. Call 020020 87268726 61006100