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Issue 3 Winter 2018 YOU

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SNOWDOGS Ashford goes Snowdogs crazy!

SPECIAL FEATURE Stay well this winter

FOCUS ON Golden age of cinema at Elwick Place Client - McAG Type Area - N/G Initials - GR AdvertiseOutlet - Ashford withBleed - 3mm us Scale - 100 Ad Type - Press HP Date - 25–10–2018 Effective DPI - 300 Publication - Ashford for you File Name -ASHFO0029_09_XMAS 18_Ashford_Press_Ashford For You_HP_180x132mm_AW Size - 180x132mm D ASHFOR

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SPOTLIGHT ON Snowdogs Discover Ashford – exciting art trail coming this autumn BIG PICTURE OF FEW An overview of the ‘Big 8’ developments changing the face of our area REMEMBERING The fallen – WW1 commemoration events + COMEDY CLUB LIV AUSTEN Advertise here and we’ll help get you noticed in around 56,000 homes in the Ashford borough! Not to mention TICs, shopping centres, SAT DEC FRI DEC restaurants, visitor attractions and many Doors: 2:45pm Doors: 2:45pm more places across the district. Show: 3:30pm 08 Show: 3:30pm 14 Find out more about the cost-effective advertising opportunities TICKETS FROM REVELATIONASHFORD.CO.UK in Ashford For You today: Advance: £10 (U16s: £8) / Door: £12 (U16s: £10) call 01233 330543 (advanced booking fees apply) or email [email protected]

18_REV_0012_Ashford YOU Magazine advert_v1.indd 1 29/10/2018 10:27 Contents News 4 & 5 Includes readers’ survey and the launch of the Your Ashford app You said, we did 6 & 7 Our biggest survey of residents Golden age of cinema 8 & 9 Welcome Our gleaming town centre cinema opens for business Thanks to everyone who responded to the summer issue, by commenting on our features, making suggestions for future content or entering our competition to win a Prosecco high tea at The Little Teapot in Park Mall – I was delighted to see more than 300 people take part! I’ve spoken to so many people recently who have been 14&15 thrilled by our Snowdogs Trail this autumn. Young and old alike have been captivated by the charm of the A profile of 10 & 11 Snowdogs and of course this fantastic cultural event is Ashford’s artist extraordinaire Alex Chinneck also raising lots of money for a worthy cause, our very own Pilgrims Hospice right here in Ashford. Snowdogs rule 12 & 13 Ashford has gone Snowdog crazy! If you enjoy a trip to the cinema then you’ll be excited to see the Ashford Picturehouse opening at Elwick Christmas & New Year 14 & 15 Place. Since work started last summer on this huge development in the heart of our town centre I have refuse collections watched the cinema, hotel and leisure complex taking All you need to know about seasonal bin services shape and now the waiting is over. And with the eye-catching gold mesh panels adorning the front of Know your boundaries 16 & 17 the building, you could say that the golden age of the Are you ready for the big shake-up in local elections? cinema has come to Ashford… Enjoy reading Ashford For You and keep sending us your views and ideas.

Tracey Kerly Chief executive, 18&19 Editorial Dean Spurrell, Jeff Sims, Samantha Stone, Winter wellbeing 18 & 19 Sarah Podger, Leanne Benn, Alice Pritchard Advice and tips to stay happy and healthy this winter Design What’s on 20 Emma Spicer, Ben Jones, Cath Babbage From Walt Disney’s Frozen to Christmas carols Printed by William Gibbons & Sons Ltd Rocket 21 Front cover photo courtesy of Leanne Benn Heralding a new era in community transport Advertising Sales 01233 330543 Your council 22 [email protected] Council contacts www.twitter.com/ashfordcouncil www.facebook.com/AshfordBoroughCouncil Competition 22 www.youtube.com/ashfordboroughcouncil Win a Picturehouse membership Instagram @Ashfordbc

ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 3 ASH D ASH FOR FOR Issue 2 Summer/Autumn 2018 D Issue 1 Spring 2018 YOU

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SPECIAL FEATURE SPOTLIGHT ON Battle’s Over: Ashford remembers BIG PICTURE Snowdogs Discover Ashford – exciting art trail coming this autumn An overview of the ‘Big 8’ developments changing the face of our area Countdown to theSNOWDOGS art trail launch REMEMBERING War hero honoured Readers’ Survey: The fallen – WW1 commemoration events & DistrictFOCUS Museum ON

A commemorative paving stone to honour the only Victoria Cross The council is seeking views on Ashford For You magazine, and how successful you feel it is in keeping you informed. Please recipient to be born in the borough was unveiled in ’s Sundial respond by placing a tick inside the box you feel best reflects your views and you could win a £50 Love2Shop voucher. garden. It marks the 100th anniversary of Corporal Frederick George Q1: To what extent do you agree Ashford For You keeps you up to date with what the council is doing? ’ Victoria Cross award. Stones are only laid in the area where each VC recipient was born and while Corporal Coppins lived in Strongly agree Disagree to some extent California he was Charing born and bred, leaving the village when he joined the army aged 18 in 1907. After joining the Royal West Agree to some extent Strongly disagree Regiment with the British Army, Frederick emigrated to Canada Neither Don’t know where he was enlisted with the Canadian Army at the outbreak of WW1. He was serving with the 8th Battalion (90th Winnipeg Rifles) Q2: To what extent do you think Ashford For You keeps you informed with what’s going on in the borough? when he was awarded his VC, given for his actions in Amiens, when Very well informed Not well informed he single-handedly took out a machine gun nest that was annihilating his platoon, saving the lives of many men. Quite well informed Not informed at all Neither Don’t know TIC Singleton success Q3: Do you feel better informed since the introduction of the Ashford For You magazine? on the move Yes Don’t know The Visitor Information Centre in Ashford has Singleton Environment Centre is going from strength moved…but not far. It has moved from the second to strength since with Singleton Parish No floor of Ashford Gateway Plus in Church Road to a larger space on the ground floor. Council took over management earlier this year. Q4: What articles would you like to see in future editions? Under the skilled stewardship of a dedicated group Opening: Mon-Sat 10.15am-3.30pm of volunteers, use of the centre is growing, new staff (closed 1-1.30pm). Call 01233 330316, have been appointed, the café is busier than ever and email [email protected] or visit www.visitashfordandtenterden.co.uk. exciting ideas are planned to make the centre even more popular with users. Q5: Do you have any other comments to make about Ashford For You? Have your say on www.singletonenvironmentcentre.org.uk Lower Thames Crossing Introducing the new A major new road linking Kent, Thurrock and Essex would app… The closing date for reponses is Friday 21 December 2018. Only one response allowed per person and people must be over 16. The nearly double road capacity across the Thames and almost Your Ashford draw for the £50 voucher will take place on Monday 14 January 2019 and the winner will be notified soon after. The editor’s decision www.ashford.gov.uk/ashford-for-you. A convenient way for residents to report their concerns is final and no correspondence will be entered into. For full terms and conditions please visit halve northbound journey times at the Crossing, This survey is also available to complete at this web page. under plans by Highways . The multi-billion pound directly to the council, especially if they’re out and project will connect communities, boost the economy and about and spot something. The app can be used in a add vital extra resilience to the road network while reducing number of ways and helps the council to deal To enter either: Email the editorial team at [email protected] please put Survey in the subject line and include your full name, postal address or pressure on the Dartford Crossing. It is the most ambitious with any concerns more rapidly. Use it to: road project since the M25 opened 30 years ago and will email and contact phone number. include the UK’s longest road tunnel. A consultation runs • Check recycling and refuse services Or send this page to Ashford For You magazine, Communications, Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford, TN23 1PL including your: Full name, postal address including post code, email address. Please include a contact telephone number. until 20 December. • Report environmental issues To view the details and to comment on the plans visit www.lowerthamescrossing.co.uk/haveyoursay • Make payments online (e.g. Council Tax) Join our Mailing List • Find your local councillor Why not join our mailing list to stay up-to-date with news and events and receive an electronic copy of our magazine? Just email [email protected] with the message: Please add me to your mailing list to receive an electronic copy of Ashford For You magazine and • Contact the council (there is the option to create an associated articles. Or if sending this page tick the box below: Council Christmas account, so all reports will be in one place and both hours Yes I’d like to join your mailing list. trackable and accessible 24/7). Need to contact Ashford Borough Council over the festive Ashford Borough Council is the data controller for any personal information you provide. Depending upon what you have requested your information season? Our Christmas and New Year opening hours at the will be used to administer our competitions, collect resident’s feedback or to circulate our resident’s magazine and keep you up-to-date on recent news We all want to keep our borough beautiful. This app Civic Centre are: 17-21 December normal hours; 24-28 and events. Collecting and processing of your personal data is being conducted relying upon the legal basis of consent. You have the right to remove will enable officers to deal with residents’ concerns your consent at any time and this can be done by sending ‘unsubscribe’ to [email protected] or alternatively the option to unsubscribe will December closed; 31 December normal hours; 1 January more quickly and effectively, as they’ll be able to access be offered each time we contact you. We will not share your information with any third parties unless we are required or permitted to do so by law. closed; 2 January normal hours. ABC services at Tenterden reports while on the move themselves. If you are entering our competition your information will be held for 3 months if you have asked to receive an electronic copy of our magazine your Town Hall are closed from 12 noon 21 December until information will be held for as long as we produce a resident’s magazine and you stay subscribed. For more information about your data protection 2 January. For more details visit www.ashford.gov.uk. Download it now via… rights please see the Council’s data protection pages which can be found at www.ashford.gov.uk or contact the Data Protection Officer at The Data Protection Officer, Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford TN23 1PL.

4 NEWS ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 5 Our survey says… YOU YSAID...OU SAID...WE WE DID DID Opinions were positive overall but there were Opinions were overall positive but there were Your Residents of Ashford have their say….and the council responds somesome areas areas where where residents residents are not are happy. not happy. We We havehave listened listened carefully carefully to what to thewhat community the community voice has hassaid. said. Some Some areas areas we have we alreadyhave already addressed, addressed, OF RESIDENTS FEEL THEY DO NOT HAVE ANY One of the biggest residents’ surveys ever carried out in the borough has generated interesting results which will be used YOU SAID...WEin others there DID is more work to do... SAY IN THE DECISIONS THE COUNCIL MAKES to reshape council services for years to come. Between March and April 2018, the council conducted a postal survey in others there is more work to do. asking randomly selected residents what they think of the borough, the council and the services we provide. Opinions were overall positive but there were some areasFree where parking residents are not happy. We have listenedParking carefullyT oiletis too to expensive provisionwhat the according community to 165 residents, while DISAGREE THAT THEY HAVE ANY INFLUENCE, has said. Some areas we have alreadyWe addressed, are pleased to inform you OfOf thethe 10,00010,000 surveyssurveys, 2,165 2,165 were were returned, returned,Of theand and 10,000 we we would would surveys like like 2,165 to to thank were returned, and we would like34 toasked thank for free parking. ACCORDING TO THE SURVEY RESULTS. in others there is more work to do. allthank the allpeople the peoplewho took who part. took is part. is Thisa solidall is theresponsea solid people response ratewho oftook nearlyrate part. of 22%, is is a solid response rate of nearlythat there 22%,Many is of free you parking have told at certainus that youtimes aren’t in council happy withrun Your views are important to us, and so the council is meaningnearly 22%, the meaningdata and thefeedback data and is reliable. feedbackmeaning is reliable. the data and feedback is reliable. car parks:the toilets in the community; namely the quantity of the toilets that are available. addressing the ways in which it consults the public SUNDAYS & BANK HOLIDAYS about upcoming and current developments, and how KEY FINDINGS DID YOUToilet KNOW? provision e councilEdinburgh is currently Road running multi-storey a scheme carto make park you can have your say in what we do. AREASKEY WE FINDINGS ARE DOING WELLOf the 10,000 surveys 2,165 were returned,AREAS and weDFOR IDwould IMPROVEMENTYOU like to thank KNOW? toilet provision(TN24 more 8LG) accessible for the public, through all the people who took part. is is a solid response rate of nearly 22%, Many of you have toldthe usCommunity that you aren’t Toilet happy Scheme, with where businesses open the toilets in the community; namely the quantity of meaning the data and feedback is reliable. AFTER 3PM the toilets that are available.their toilets for public use. The survey has provided us with valuable insight Ashford has the lowest council tax MONDAY TO SATURDAY Keeping you informed e council is currentlyYou runningcan identify a scheme businesses to make into the views of local residents about living in the Ashford has the lowest council tax in Kent. For every pound of council Edinburgh Road car park The council is changing how it communicates too KEY FINDINGS DID YOU KNOW? tax youtoilet pay, ABCprovision gets 10p.morethat accessible take part for inthe the public, scheme through borough and the services they receive from us. in Kent. For every pound of council every Monday to Saturday – 45% of you feel that we do not keep you well informed tax you pay, ABC gets 10p. the Community Toiletby lookingScheme, forwhere the businesses yellow open 83% their toilets for publicsticker use. inSUNDAYS their window, & BANK HOLIDAYS about what’s going on in the town. 9p Flour Mills car park We are expanding the ways in which we keep you up-to- HAPPY WITH Ashford hasF theEEL lowest THEY council DO NOT tax You can identify businesseslike the one to the right. 83% 65% date including: Ashford For You magazine, the council’s 9p that take part in the scheme (TN24 8PA) YOUR LOCAL AREA in Kent. For everyHAVE pound ANY of councilSAY For more information HAPPY WITH HAVE PRIDE IN by looking for the1 0yellowp website and social media channels so you can find out tax you pay, ABC gets 10p. AFTER 3PM YOUR LOCAL AREA THE LOCAL AREA stickerHow yourin their window,about the scheme or if more about current projects in your surrounding area. 10p like the one to the right.you5p are aSUNDAYS business and AND BANK HOLIDAYS 83% 65% 74p Follow us on 9p How your would2p likeStation to get Roadinvolved car park For more information HAPPY WITH HAVE PRIDE IN 5p £1 visit: www.ashford.gov.uk/the-environment/(TN23 1PP) @ashfordbc aboutis allocated the scheme or if YOUR LOCAL AREA THE LOCAL AREA 74p community-toilet-scheme 10p 2p you are a businessIn addition, and you can park for free in pay and display How your £1 would like to get involved @AshfordCouncil 73% DISAGREE THEYis allocated HAVE parking bays in the High Street, North Street and Bank 5p www.ashford.gov.uk/the-environment/ ANY INFLUENCE visit: SATISFIED WITH 74p Street after 6pm from Monday to Saturday and all day 2p community-toilet-scheme Ashford Borough Council HOW THE COUNCIL £1 at theseFree locations parking on Sundays. 73% 64RUN% THINGS is allocated Kent County ForCouncil more information visit: or visit the ABC Newshub SATISFIED WITH THINK THE COUNCIL www.ashford.gov.uk/free-parkingLots of you have commented on the price of parking, https://news.ashford.gov.uk Ashford Borough Council HOW73% THE COUNCIL 6IS4 COMMITTED% TO Free parkingand have asked for free parking too. We are pleased to RUN THINGS inform you that there is free parking at certain times in SATISFIED WITH THINK THETHE COUNCIL LOCAL AREA KentLots Police of you andhave commented on the price of parking, HOW THE COUNCIL IS COMMITTED TO Crimeand have Commissioner askedImproving for councilfree parking our run too. towncar Weparks: arecentre pleased to RUN THINGS SATISFIEDAshford WITH THEBorough Council inform you that there is free parking at certain times in THE LOCAL AREA Kent County Council Kent Fire andThe survey showed us that 40% of you are happy with In the meantime we have exciting projects such as TOWN CENTRE AS A council run car parks: SUNDAYS & BANK HOLIDAYS Rescue Services 77% AshfordPLACE BoroughKent TO PoliceVISIT Council and Ashford as a placeEdinburgh to shop, but Road less satisfied multi-storey with the car parkthe new Picturehouse cinema and leisure complex at Crime Commissioner Parish CouncilsSUNDAYStown as a place& BANK to(TN24 visitHOLIDAYS (24%) 8LG) and go out (22%). Elwick Place, the much-anticipated expansion SATISFIED WITH Edinburgh Road multi-storey car park and Over the summer, we ran a public consultation on the of the Designer Outlet and the new Chapel Down OUR BIN COLLECTION Crime CommissionerKent Fire and (TN24 8LG) future of Ashford town centre, where many of you told Brewery and visitor centre, which will significantly SERVICE Rescue Services 77% 64% Kent Fire and us your ideas. The results are being processed and we improve the town centre offer. Rescue Services will provide more details in the next edition. Visit: www.ashford.gov.uk/towncentre 77%SATISFIED WITH 6T4HINK% THAT THE Parish Councils OURSATISFIED BIN COLLECTION WITH COUNCILTHINK THAT UNDERSTANDS THE Parish Councils OUR BINSERVICE COLLECTION COUNCIL UNDERSTANDSYOUR NEEDS SATISFIED WITH THE SERVICE YOUR NEEDS TOWN CENTRE AS A PLACE TO GO OUT anks again to everyone who took 71% part in this year’s survey. Full results SATISFIED WITH can be found on our website PARKS Thank you www.ashford.gov.uk anks again anks to everyone again whoto everyone took who took 71%71% 62%62% Thankspart in this again partyear’s in tosurvey. thiseveryone year’s Full results survey.who took Full part results SATISFIED WITH SATISFIED WITH HAPPHY AWPITPHY WITH in canthis be year’s foundcan survey. on be our found Fullwebsite results on our can website be PARKS YOUR PLAY AREAS PARKS YOUR PLAY AREAS found onwww.ashford.gov.uk our websitewww.ashford.gov.uk www.ashford.gov.uk

6 RESIDENTS’ SURVEY ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 7 Market gateposts The gateposts were discovered in a scrapyard, and were Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough Council, Golden age of cinema stored while work was carried out to restore them. said: “This development created by Stanhope has been They have been dismantled, cleaned and refitted to funded by the council on land that we own. It is one ensure that they remain structurally safe. Following their element of a wider £519m of investment in developments comes to town… restoration by Stanhope, the gateposts have been installed in Ashford town centre which are currently under way or onsite, close to the footbridge over the railway tracks. planned for the near future. The golden age of cinema has come to Ashford town centre with the opening of our They are being fitted with a gate-like façade that will not “Elwick Place promises to be a real game-changer for gleaming new cinema and restaurant complex at Elwick Place, a leisure development open or close but will form a three dimension map of the our town centre. And by investing in this site, Ashford immediate area by using vertical steel bars or strips that Borough Council is receiving a secure source of long- which has been described as a “game-changer” for the area. reflect the contours of the surrounding area. term income generated through rents and business rates, This piece of contemporary artwork reflects Ashford’s helping to sustain and improve local services without the heritage while showing what is possible in the need for central government funding.” Elwick Place The grand opening new surroundings. Elwick Place has been developed by Stanhope PLC, A series of headline-grabbing events are taking place and funded by Ashford Borough Council. to mark the opening of the cinema and hotel at Elwick Construction work began in July 2017 on the Place. These include a royal unveiling of a statue of The Elwick Etchings The Elwick Etchings initiative, put together by Stanhope 100,000 sq ft scheme which is set to revitalise the town Queen , the installation of specially- Elwick Place is one of our Big 8 projects centre’s night-time economy. commissioned market gates and gateposts in a nod to and public arts company Strange Cargo, has involved “ the site’s agricultural heritage, and the unveiling of the Ashfordians coming forward with their personal stories This £75m investment represents a huge economic which are together transforming the Elwick Etchings art installation. of living in Ashford, as well as interesting facts about the boost to the area – the cinema and hotel alone is town. These memories have been etched into around borough’s skyline and fortunes. creating more than 60 jobs. Members of the Romanian royal family and other 100 large granite slabs and set into the pavements around Cllr Gerry Clarkson, Leader of Ashford Borough” Council VIPs are expected to visit Ashford to unveil a statue It includes a six-screen cinema with over 850 seats, a Elwick Place for future generations to read and enjoy. of Queen Marie located within the public plaza. 58-bedroom Travelodge hotel, eight restaurants and other retail spaces, a landscaped public plaza together Marie was a granddaughter of and was with a 282-space car park. born on the Eastwell estate in Ashford. After marrying SCREEN PICTUREHOUSE CINEMA into the Romanian royal family, she went on to become The development, which has been delivered ahead OVER 850 SEATS AND A 70 COVER RESTAURANT a revered figure in public life, serving as a nurse in the 6 of schedule and on budget, is opening in phases, First World War and playing a key role in forging the with planning consent recently given for around modern day Romanian state. 200 apartments to be built on the brownfield site. BEDROOM TRAVELODGE Ashford’s proud heritage as a market town is celebrated Over the last 16 months, passers-by have seen the 58 RESTAURANT, BAR AND MEETING ROOMS by the installation of imposing iron gateposts that complex gradually take shape and rise above the originally adorned the main entrance to Ashford’s hoardings opposite Debenhams. One of the most eye- historic town centre market. The gateposts were NEW RESTAURANTS catching design features of the cinema are the dozens originally made in Ashford by John Udal Bugler in of large curved gold mesh panels decorating the façade. 8 CAFES AND OTHER RETAIL SPACES 1879 and were located at the entrance to the old The former Ashford cattle market site, which had market. It is believed they were removed from remained unused and derelict for more than 20 years the site in 1970. SPACE CAR PARK before being snapped up by the council, has been 282 INCLUDING SPACES WITH transformed into a vibrant leisure hub that provides ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING POINTS residents and visitors alike with a stylish place to eat, drink and relax, by day or night. HIGH QUALITY APARTMENTS 200 IN PHASE 2

WEEKS 86 BUILDING PROGRAMME “ Elwick Place is a perfect example of the visionary approach that Ashford Borough Council is taking to improving the town, not only with the Commercial Quarter, but also +250,000 with other major development projects. This partnership will enable the Council to secure HOURS WORKED ON SITE long-term revenue streams through rents and business rates, providing a steady source of income to sustain and improve the local services it provides. Gary Bourne, Development Director, Stanhope ” Find out more With Elwick Place opening in phases you can keep up to date with news and developments by visiting www.elwickplace.com

8 ELWICK PLACE ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 9 “ Ashford allows what London doesn’t as there is so much more space and both head space and physical space, which is great for my creativity. ”

Images courtesy of Marc Wilmott, Chris Tubbs and Stephen o’Flaherty. Leading British artist swaps London for Ashford He’s been described by art critics as the Harrison Ford or the Indiana Jones of the art world, and recently he has gone on a new exciting adventure of his own - swapping the bright lights of London for the quieter rural appeal of the outskirts of our borough.

shford For You speaks to British sculptor and Open to the public installation artist, Alex Chinneck, who has It didn’t take long for Alex to display his artistic skills recently relocated his studio to Brook. A in Ashford too, transforming an unused building into a Explaining his move to Ashford, Alex points to its surreal sculpture. ‘Open to the public’, which appeared proximity to both London and the coast. The rural secretly overnight, turned Brundrett House on the location of Brook works for his growing family but also former Kent Woolgrowers site on Tannery Lane, into for his own sculptural ambition and he is confident that a local, national and even international talking point his decision to move to Ashford is the right one. – by the afternoon on the day of the unveiling, it had generated 152 media articles. “Initially I was slightly worried that I would lose energy moving from London, but actually I have been The artwork, commissioned by U+I, a specialist re-energised. There are some brilliant tradesman and regeneration and property developer, creates the illusion makers in the local area, who we are already building that the walls of a 1960s office building have been relationships with and no doubt there will be more to unzipped to reveal its interior. make in the future. Alex said: “There is sculptural freedom with a building due for demolition. I have a fascination with warping Exciting time the world around us and bending things that shouldn’t “We have joined Ashford at a really exciting time when be bent, which is definitely true of this piece. its urban ambition is in its infancy. We are hoping to contribute to the momentum of the growth and “I’m always keen to conceive artwork based on the development of the area with our work.” narrative of the area in which it is based. My inspiration for ‘Open to the public’ came from the history and Over the past five years, the artist has completed a association with the textiles and leather industry. succession of major street sculptures including sliding the brick façade off a three-storey property in ; “My main aim of the piece was to create an impact and I’d like to think we achieved this.” View more of Alex’s work at: constructing a full-size melting house from 7,500 wax www.alexchinneck.com bricks near London Bridge; creating the illusion that a Expect more artwork from Alex Chinneck in the local or follow him on Instagram: stone building on London’s Covent Garden Piazza was area – he has recently announced that his new project @alexchinneck #opentothepublic floating in mid-air; and inverting a 37-metre electricity will be a loop-the-loop footbridge over the River Stour pylon to stand on its tip. in Ashford.

10 SPECIAL FEATURE ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 11 Snowdogs Discovered Ashford

Take one town, 35 giant dog sculptures, 19 school pups, a handful of sponsors and talented artists and thousands of art trail enthusiasts and what do you get? The answer is, of course, one very successful Snowdog trail.

or ten weeks this autumn, we’ve welcomed the Snowdogs (along with their pup litters) Fthroughout the town, breathing life and magic into the streets and open spaces of the borough. Having never organised a public art trail of this scale before, we were unsure quite how it would be received. We needn’t have worried, however – the reaction to the Snowdogs was beyond anything we ever anticipated. It goes without saying that the trail wouldn’t have created so much magic and happiness across the town without all of your support and input; it was wonderful to see the positive impact the dogs had on everyone who took part. Of course, the point of the trail was to raise funds for Pilgrims Hospices, a very worthy local cause, and we must also thank them for their tireless work and support on the trail as well as Wild in Art, who were responsible for delivering the initiative. Here are a few of our favourite pictures from the Picture courtesy: Team Waddell10 trail. Did you #FindYourSnowdog this autumn? @teamwaddell

WIN SOME PAW-SOME GOODIES! Snowdogs in numbers You’ve done the trail and taken the selfies and now it’s time to win some goodies! We have a selection of official Snowdogs merchandise to give away to one lucky reader, including a 833.9 Classic Snowdog model, T-towel, mug, magnet and keyring. MILES COVERED All you need to do is check through this magazine carefully and count how many Snowdogs you can find ‘hiding’ among our features (excluding the ones you see on the front cover and on this page). Clue: there are more than 3 but less than 6! Once you have added them up, email us at [email protected], putting Snowdogs in the subject 1,961,451 All Photos courtesy of the official box. Include your full name, postal address and email, plus a contact phone number. Snowdogs Discover Ashford app Or send a postcard or sealed envelope with your name, address, email and phone number to: TOTAL STEPS Ashford For You magazine, Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford TN23 1PL. Stats correct at time of going to press. Enter our fun competition today – you’d be barking mad not to!

12 SPECIAL FEATURE ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 13

To ensure your recycling is collected, place your bin out by 7am on collection day. Recycle more this Christmas

Christmas collections Green recycling bin Grey refuse bin During the festive period your refuse and recycling collection days may • Christmas cards • Tinsel be altered. Check out the 2018/2019 calendar below for any changes! • Tin foil & foil serving trays • Broken decorations • Champagne, wine & beer bottles • Bubblewrap & soft plastic • Paper only wrapping paper packaging like cellophane • Cardboard boxes • Foil/shiny wrapping paper Normal collection day Revised collection day • Sweet/Chocolate tins • Champagne & wine corks • Mince pie foil cases • Polystyrene Mon 24 Dec Mon 24 Dec Tues 25 Dec Thurs 27 Dec recycling Wed 26 Dec Fri 28 Dec Thurs 27 Dec Sat 29 Dec Fri 28 Dec Mon 31 Dec This year give your food caddy a good stuffing! Mon 31 Dec Wed 2 Jan Use it for your leftovers, turkey carcass Tue 1 Jan Thurs 3 Jan refuse and all your food waste from sprout tops Wed 2 Jan Fri 4 Jan to carrot and potato peelings! Thurs 3 Jan Sat 5 Jan Fri 4 Jan Mon 7 Jan Visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com for handy recipes for those festive leftovers! Mon 7 Jan Tues 8 Jan Tues 8 Jan Wed 9 Jan recycling Wed 9 Jan Thurs 10 Jan Thurs 10 Jan Fri 11 Jan Fri 11 Jan Sat 12 Jan Christmas Tree Recycling Remember...

Normal collections will resume on Monday 14 January 2019. Ashford Borough residents can register their real Christmas We cannot take items that have plastic Garden collection resumes normal service on Monday 7 January 2019 on your usual day. tree for collection and recycling in return for their chosen donation to Pilgrims Hospices. This scheme raised £19,000 or metallic coatings. for hospice patients last Christmas. Ashford Borough Most Christmas cards are paper-based and can be recycled Council is proud to support our local hospice and we’re but any extras such as ribbons or bows cannot easily be hoping even more people will sign up this year. recycled and should be removed by tearing off that part of the card. Garden Recycling & Bulky Collections This special fundraising campaign offers As stated on your garden recycling collection Christmas tree collections from homes across If your Christmas decorations such as your tinsel and calendars, there will be NO garden waste the Ashford Borough Council area. baubles have lost their sparkle then you will need to place or bulky collections over the festive period; Visit www.pilgrimshospices.org/treerecycling these in your general waste bin. Any natural decorations week commencing 24 December 2018 and to register your tree for collection and their friendly team like ivy or holly can be recycled in your garden waste bin. 31 December 2018. of volunteers will take it away on 12 January. No need to When it comes to wrapping paper - do the scrunch test! mess up your car; they’ll do the hard work for you! These collections will resume on Monday Clinical Collections Only non-foil paper is accepted for recycling so to check, 7 January 2019 on your usual day. Weekly Monday Clinical collections will NOT scrunch up the paper and if it doesn’t spring back then it’s be affected during the Christmas period. non-foil and can be recycled. Out of ease and convenience a lot of us order Christmas If we have been unable to collect from your street or area due to bad weather then please leave your bin out so the presents online which means items are likely to be delivered crews can access it for recollection. in boxes or envelopes made from corrugated cardboard. Remember to take out any polystyrene and flatten the For missed bin collections visit www.ashford.gov.uk/wastecollections/reportmissedbin boxes to save space!

14 CHRISTMAS COLLECTIONS ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 15 Know your boundaries What does this mean for you? MAP KEY WARD BOUNDARIES WILL BE 1. AYLESFORD & EAST STOUR REDRAWN AND THIS MEANS Did you know that there are major changes are on the way that could have a big 2. BEAVER SOME STREETS WILL FALL INTO 3. NEW WARDS AND PEOPLE WILL 9 impact on how people will vote during local elections in the ? 4. BIRCHOLT NEED TO ATTEND DIFFERENT 5. BOCKHANGER POLLING STATIONS TO VOTE. These have been ushered in following a major review of election arrangements 6. BYBROOK 7 7. CHARING 10 carried out by the Local Government Boundary Commission. Read on to find out 8. CONNINGBROOK & LITTLE BURTON FARM more about this strengthening of local democracy… 9. DOWNS NORTH 10. DOWNS WEST 39 11. FURLEY 32 12 16 12. GOAT LEES 13. 5 22 6 8 14. HIGHFIELD 36 13 15. ISLE OF OXNEY 33 11 38 16. KENNINGTON 27 26 2 4 New polling stations being used for the first time 17. VILLAGE AND BRIDGEFIELD 19 1 14 18. , SOUTH WITH 34 28 19. NORMAN 35 24 20 18 Venue Ward 20. PARK FARM NORTH 3 21 21. PARK FARM SOUTH 17 Gerlach House sheltered housing, Beecholme Drive Bockhanger 22. REPTON 23. ROLVENDEN & TENTERDEN WEST 24. ROMAN St Mary’s Community Centre, Ryland Road Bybrook 31 37 25. SAXON SHORE 25 26. SINGLETON EAST Spearpoint Pavilion, The Ridge Bybrook 27. SINGLETON WEST 29 28. STANHOPE Mobile at Finberry Primary School, Avocet Way Mersham, Sevington South with Finberry 29. TENTERDEN NORTH 30 30. TENTERDEN SOUTH 23 Repton Connect, Repton Avenue Repton 31. TENTERDEN ST MICHAEL’S 32. UPPER WEALD 33. VICTORIA 34. WASHFORD 15 35. WEALD CENTRAL When people living in Ashford go to the polls on many more – or many fewer – voters than some of their 36. WEALD NORTH TWO-MEMBER WARDS Thursday 2 May 2019 to choose their borough fellow councillors on the same authority. 37. WEALD SOUTH SINGLE-MEMBER WARDS 38. councillor they could find themselves attending a In delivering its recommendations for Ashford, the 39. different polling station to the one they are used to, Commission said the borough “currently has high levels or be asked to vote for two candidates rather than the of electoral inequality where some councillors represent THE NUMBER OF COUNCILLORS usual one. many more – or many fewer – voters than others. IS INCREASING FROM Of these, two – Kennington and South Willesborough This means that the value of your vote in borough and Newtown – voted “yes” to the creation of a council elections varies depending on where you live community council, with the other three voting “no”. Ashford is the only borough or in Ashford.” 43 to 47 “ Much like parish councils do in other areas of our district in Kent where the numbers of The Commission said its plans for Ashford would borough, these community councils will get involved deliver electoral equality for voters; reflect local THE NUMBER OF WARDS WILL INCREASE FROM councillors are increasing - this means in local issues and represent the best interests of people community interests and identities; and promote living in those areas. In recent months a huge amount improved representation for local effective local government. of work has gone into preparing for the launch of the voters. This is a direct reflection on the councils, with two groups known as shadow councils set 35 to 39 New community councils up to handle the preparations. rapid pace of economic and population UNDER THE NEW SYSTEM, make their bow These shadow groups have included volunteers from COUNCILLORS WILL NOW REPRESENT growth right across the district. ” Two new community councils come into force on the local community, local borough councillors and 2 May 2019. They were created in response to a representatives from existing community forums, and TWO-MEMBER Community Governance Review undertaken by they have worked tirelessly so that the community 8 WARDS For some people, their arrangements may be unchanged Ashford Borough Council in 2015-16. The North councils are ready to hit the ground running from from previous local council elections. For others, the Willesborough Community Forum had requested day one. ONE-MEMBER review carried out by the Commission means the trip the review be carried out in their area and this led the 31 WARDS to cast your vote next May, and in all future elections, borough council to expand the review further. is changing. A ballot was held of all Ashford residents who are What happens next... So why are these changes being rolled out across currently not represented by a parish council, with The updated electoral register will be published in December well ahead of the borough elections on Ashford? The Local Government Boundary the ballot split into five areas – Central Ashford, Thursday 2 May 2019. You can find more by visiting: Commission’s review aimed at tackling electoral Kennington, North Willesborough, South Ashford, and www.ashford.gov.uk/councillors-meetings-and-elections/elections-and-electoral-registration/ inequality where some borough councillors represent South Willesborough and Newtown.

16 BOUNDARY CHANGES ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 17 Sad For some, the effect of the shorter days and colder weather can have a significant impact on their daily life. If you suffer from the following symptoms you may have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a type of depression and a recognised mental health disorder;

l A persistent low mood and lack of interest l Sleeping for longer than usual and having in activities trouble rising

l Irritability l Weight gain

l Tiredness and low energy throughout the day If you think this applies to you then get in touch l Feelings of worthlessness and despair with your GP or health centre for more advice.

Stay hydrated It’s easy to drink more fluids in the summer when you’re Winter hot and thirsty but in winter you may tend to reach for warming tea and coffee and shun water. Caffeinated drinks are actually diuretic (i.e. they make you urinate more) so they’re not as hydrating. Try to ensure you’re Wellbeing drinking water or squash throughout the day, or if you really don’t fancy something cold then try herbal tea instead. At this time of year, when the days are getting shorter, it’s natural to want to hibernate. However, with a long list of demands on our time, trying to achieve Sleep well too much can leave you feeling frazzled and burnt out. Get into a good sleep habit by going to bed and getting up at the same time each day. Avoid long lay-ins as these he cold weather can also deplete our natural immunity so can have the same impact as jet-lag, leaving you feeling foggy and even more tired. this, on top of a fast-paced lifestyle, could be the reason You are what you eat Twhy we end up catching a cold and feeling generally low. Resist the urge to check your phone before you go to There are some things we can all do to counter the effects of the sleep too as the blue light can affect your body’s release of It may be tempting to reach for convenience comfort season and improve our mental and physical wellbeing. melatonin (the hormone that regulates sleep), impacting food but high sugar and salt meals and snacks will also Here are a few suggestions: your ability to drift off. Instead, ensure your bedroom deplete your immune system. is cool and dark and enjoy a warm bath before bed to Instead, aim to increase your intake of fresh fruits and Get outside naturally soothe your body into slumber. vegetables. This time of year is perfect for hearty, warming stews and casseroles Try to get as much sunlight as possible – the lack of light during with plenty of vegetables. winter can affect your sleep cycle, causing you to feel fatigued so take the opportunity to get outside during daylight hours. Make the most of cheaper cuts Why not encourage your colleagues to go for a lunchtime walk of meat by slow cooking them or take the family out into the fresh air? and bulking out with pulses. If you make more than you need and you can save portions in the fridge or freezer to reheat Exercise when you don’t have the time or It may feel like the last thing you want to do when you’re feeling inclination to cook from scratch. tired but exercise is a fantastic way to boost your energy levels and immune system. If you fit in a gym session before or after work you’ll be more likely to stick with it as, once you get home, you If you are interested in making a positive lifestyle change the Ashford One You shop can help. The shop provides support may not feel like going back out again. Alternatively, join a group and advice on a range of lifestyle issues, stop smoking support, healthy weight, health checks, health MOTs and blood fitness class and enjoy the social aspect too. A high energy Zumba pressure checks. No appointment necessary just pop in and speak to an advisor to find out more. class is a great way to enjoy an endorphin boost or, if you’re feeling Find the One You Shop in Ashford’s Park Mall on Tuesday to Friday from 9.30am to 5pm and Saturdays from 9.30am to 1pm. stressed, a yoga class can help stretch out muscle tightness and encourage relaxation. Visit: www.oneyoukent.org.uk for more information about Health Improvement Services or call 0300 123 1220.

18 SPECIAL FEATURE ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 19 What’s On This issue we bring you a Christmas Special event guide, these are just a few of the activities you can do in our borough this festive season…

December Christmas Countdown Look out for our daily advent reveal with mini workshops from Christmas crafts and activities to styling advice. 1-24 December, Ashford town centre, for details visit www.loveashford.com Santa Specials on Kent & Railway Take a magical steam train journey to meet Santa on the railway’s popular Santa Specials. 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 21-24 December, Tenterden Station, Ashford MP joined representatives of the borough and parish councils at the unveiling. Station Road, Tenterden TN30 6HE, Admission: Standard Class Tickets - from £19, First Class Tickets from £25, for details visit: www.kesr.org.uk Santa’s Grotto Come and meet the man himself in his cosy cabin. A community connected 1, 8, 15, 18-24 December, 11am – 4pm, Park Mall shopping centre, Ashford Outdoor Ice Skating at Eastwell Manor We recently saw the launch of the Rolvenden Rocket, a 16-seater community Whether it’s an afternoon out with the family, or a romantic Christmas balloon modelling and face painting date with someone special, the outdoor skating rink is perfect minibus, which was made possible by the hard work and combined efforts of Get creative and look festive! for some traditional festive fun. Rolvenden Parish Council and Ashford Borough Council. 2, 9, 16 December, 10am – 3pm, Main Square, 1 December to 2 January, Monday to Thursday 2pm - 8pm, shopping centre, Ashford Friday, Saturday and Sunday 12pm - 6pm, Eastwell Park, The minibus, which is the first in a pilot wellbeing Duncan Murray, Chairman of Rolvenden Parish The Reindeer Centre Christmas Grotto , Ashford TN25 4HT, Admission: 1 hour initiative, was named the Rolvenden Rocket in a nod Council, said: “Lots of hard work has gone into skating and skate hire: Adults - £14.50pp, Enjoy a special family encounter with Father Christmas to the village’s history, where the village supported a getting the Rolvenden Rocket community minibus. Children under 12 - £9.50pp in his Festive Cabin, where every good child receives a successful team of speedway racing cyclists during the We’re delighted to see how popular it’s proving and how quality wrapped present. School Choirs sing for Demelza 40s, 50s and 60s. it’s connecting people and improving their wellbeing.” 10 November to 24 December, Reindeer Centre, Your local schools sing it loud for charity. Capralama Farm, , Ashford TN26 3EQ, 6 December, times to be confirmed, While provided by the borough council, the minibus Rolvenden residents can find out more via for details visit: www.reindeercentre.co.uk County Square shopping centre, Ashford is fully operated by the parish council. They run the www.rolvendenparishcouncil.org.uk and follow the booking system, collect the hire charges and undertake Rolvenden Rocket on Facebook (@RolvendenRocket). Carols in the Courtyard Family Film Fun: all necessary administration. Volunteers drive the Enjoy your favourite carols and Christmas songs in the minibus for their local clubs, societies and other 1 December Courtyard with “Harmony”. Warm up with mulled wine and community groups, providing access to attractions, Frozen Sing Along mince pies in the Barn. cultural and sports events and shopping trips. All monies Experience Frozen, the hit musical comedy from Walt 14 December, Willesborough Windmill, Mill Lane, Is your parish council interested Disney Animation Studios, like never before in a full length Willesborough, Ashford TN24 0QG, collected go towards the operational costs, with any Sing-Along version! Admission: Adults: £5, Children: £5, Under 10’s: FREE surplus being retained by the participating clubs. in having a community minibus? 1.00pm to 2.30pm People therefore benefit from not only using the minibus The borough council is interested in hearing Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Pantomime but by being part of a community group. from other parish councils who might want The Snowman and the Snowdog That’s Entertainment Productions return again this Christmas their own community minibus. If you would with the loveliest Panto of all as Snow White and the Seven Public transport in rural areas is an important issue and In this sequel to Raymond Briggs’ like further information, please contact the Dwarfs arrives at the Sinden Theatre. classic animated tale a snowman and it’s well known that poor transport can lead to rural Community Safety and Wellbeing service by email: snowdog come magically to life. 28 December to 30 December, various times, The Sinden isolation for people of all ages. It is hoped that this will [email protected]. Theatre, Homewood School, Ashford Road, Tenterden 3.00pm to 3.30pm be the first in a fleet of community-run minibuses, TN30 6LT, for details visit: www.sindentheatre.com making it easier for those in more rural areas to travel Arthur Christmas For events in January check out the What’s on around the borough. How can Santa deliver billions of presents to the whole section of Visit Ashford and Tenterden website Cllr Brad Bradford, Ashford Borough Council’s portfolio world in just one night? Deck the halls with excitement, fun and wonder in this new Christmas classic! For events around the borough: holder for Community Safety and Wellbeing, said: 3.30pm to 5.00pm www.visitashfordandtenterden.co.uk/find-events/ “This is a fantastic new service that will be

www.rolvendenparishcouncil.org.uk hugely beneficial to the local community. TEL: 07578657478 All at Revelation St Mary’s, Churchyard, For events at Revelation St Mary’s: I am proud to have championed the initial ROLVENDENROCKET Ashford TN23 1QG, Admission: 50p for each film, www.revelationashford.co.uk (tickets can also be idea and would like to give my thanks to the purchased from the Tourist Information Centre at for details visit: www.revelationashford.co.uk fantastic volunteers, the clubs and the parish Ashford Gateway Plus) council who turned this idea into a reality.”

20 YOUR COMMUNITY ISSUE 3 WINTER 2018 21 Get in touch! To comment on this magazine, to tell us what you’d like to County Council services see more of and maybe to submit an article of your own, please: Email: [email protected] (subject line NEWS) or and other useful information Write to: Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Kent County Council Tannery Lane, Ashford, Kent, TN23 1PL Website: www.kent.gov.uk 03000 414 141 Ashford Gateway: 03000 416 666 Feeling social? Environment & public rights of way: 03000 417 171 Tweet @AshfordCouncil on Twitter Highways and transport (roadworks, Like Ashford Borough Council on Facebook potholes and street lighting): 03000 41 81 81 Watch Ashford Borough Council on You Tube Kent libraries: 03000 413131 Follow us on Instagram - @Ashfordbc Social care & health: 03000 416161 Customer Services Other useful phone numbers Email: [email protected] Ashford Community Safety Unit: 01233 330891 Write to: Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Tannery Leisure & Tourism: Stour Centre: 01233 663503 Lane, Ashford, Kent TN23 1PL Julie Rose Stadium: 01233 613131 Call: 01233 331111 Kingsnorth Recreation Centre: 01233 879389 All our face-to-face enquiries are by appointment only at the Singleton Environment Centre: 01233 666519 Civic Centre, Mon to Fri, from 9am to 3.45pm. Find your borough councillor: Environment Agency floodline: 0345 988 1188 www.ashford.gov.uk/councillors Benefit fraud: 0800 854 440

A YEAR'S FREE WIN MEMBERSHIP A Perfect Picturehouse Prize For Film Fans! To celebrate the opening of Ashford Picturehouse at Elwick Place this winter we have 10 Annual Memberships to give away, a fantastic prize for movie buffs! Benefits of Annual Membership (normally costs £50) include four free cinema tickets, 10% off food and drinks, discount on tickets at Picturehouse Cinemas nationwide, access to exclusive members’ free preview film screenings, members’ priority booking, and no booking fees. Members also receive lots of extra benefits from Picturehouse partners - for a full list and other details visit www.picturehouses.com The closing date for entries is Friday 21 December 2018, when the draw will be made. Winners will be notified in writing. Only one entry allowed per person. The editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Visit www.ashford.gov.uk/ashford-for-you.

To enter your name in our prize draw either: * Email the editorial team at [email protected] – put Picturehouse Competition Entry in the subject heading and include your full name, postal address and email. Please include a contact phone number. * Send a postcard or sealed envelope with your name, address, email and contact phone number to: Ashford For You magazine, Communications, Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford TN23 1PL. Write Picturehouse Competition Entry on the card. We will contact each winner to request consent to provide your contact details to Picturehouse to enable you to claim your prize.

Ashford Borough Council is the data controller for the personal information you provide us and this will be used to circulate our magazine and keep you up-to-date on recent news and events. Collecting and processing of your personal data is being conducted relying upon the legal basis of consent. You have the right to remove your consent at any time by sending ‘unsubscribe’ to media@ ashford.gov.uk The option to unsubscribe will be offered each time we contact you. We will not share your information with any third parties unless we are required or permitted to do so by law. Your information will be held for as long as we produce a residents’ magazine and you stay subscribed. For more information about your data protection rights see our data protection pages at www. ashford.gov.uk or contact the Data Protection Officer, Ashford Borough Council, Civic Centre, Tannery Lane, Ashford TN23 1PL. Competition winners More than 300 readers took part in our competition to win a Prosecco high tea for two at The Little Teapot – a record response! The 10 lucky winners are David Forbes, Isabel Sage, Emma Bradford, Iris Millen, Michelle Sinclair, Paul Allison, Shelley22 Ashton, Mrs C. Herbert,YOUR BOROUGH, Mrs Joan YOUR Mills, MAGAZINE and Mrs J. Read. EN TE S R A T M A T I S N I

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