BROXBOURNE Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 1 Front cover photos:

New facilities at Regional College, opened in 2009

A nurse at the Urgent Care Centre at Community Hospital, opened in 2009

Young people on a kickabout court, built in 2008

2 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Contents Forward 4 Introduction to Broxbourne 4 Regional planning 5 Countywide planning 5 Community planning in Broxbourne 6 Method of working 6 Consultation and scrutiny 7 Place Survey 7 The Local Strategic Partnership 8 Outcomes of the Community Plan 2007-09 9 Achievements shown in numbers 11 Resources for Sustainable Community Strategy priorities 13 Themes for 2010-2021 14 Theme 1: Health and Wellbeing 15 Theme 2: Community Safety 17 Theme 3: Children and Young People 19 Theme 4: Jobs, Prosperity and Skills 22 Theme 5: Places to live 25 Theme 6: Transport and Access 27 Theme 7: The Environment 29 Theme 8: Stronger communities 31 Theme 9: Older People 33 Glossary 35 E-contact details for LSP partners 36

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 3 Foreword This is the first Sustainable Community The Sustainable Community Strategy forms Strategy (SCS) for Broxbourne, previously a the overarching strategic plan for public and Community Plan fulfilled the same function. The voluntary sector bodies that provide services in last Community Plan ran from 2007-2009. This Broxbourne. It provides the framework within strategy covers the period from 2010 to 2021, which LSP members will focus their efforts. the vision and many of the aims are long term, whilst many of the actions proposed are for Copies of the supporting documentation are implementation in the short term. This strategy available from Broxbourne Council at the will be reviewed during 2012 and then every address below and on the Council’s website. three years. It was produced after a review Contact details of all partners organisations can of community needs, and is owned by the be found on page 36. Broxbourne Local Strategic Partnership (LSP).

Introduction to Broxbourne The of Broxbourne has a population to national networks. Broxbourne is close of about 90,100 and covers 20 square miles both to and to some of the loveliest in south east . Broxbourne’s countryside in the home counties. Broxbourne towns of , Cheshunt and is a good place to live, work, visit or locate a lie along the Lee Valley’s main business. roads and railways. The protects the surrounding countryside. Detailed information about the Borough and its To the west the Borough extends over well- characteristics can be found in the Community wooded countryside to include Goff’s Oak. The Audit background document, produced to River Lee and the Lee Valley Regional Park support the development and review of the mark the eastern boundary. Communications Community Plan. Copies of this document are are good with excellent road and rail links available from the Council.

Broxbourne Borough Council Map of Broxbourne Borough Offices Borough Bishops’ College, Churchgate, Cheshunt, Waltham Cross, Herts, EN8 9XQ

Tel: (01992) 785555 Fax: (01992) 785578 Email: [email protected] Minicom: (01992) 785581 Out of hours and emergencies: 01992 639561

Website: www.broxbourne.gov.uk

4 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Regional planning • Sustaining Hertfordshire’s Unique Character and Relevant regional plans produced by the East of Quality of Life Assembly include: spatial • Promoting Sustainable Development strategy, economic strategy and housing strategy. The county as a whole has formulated a second The Government Office for the East, (GOEast) have local area agreement (LAA), which was signed off by stated their priorities are to work with Hertfordshire Government in 2008. These agreements bring together Forward to: the public and voluntary sectors to work towards • support Hertfordshire in its response to the improvements in services through partnership working. recession including delivering economic and The LAA lasts for three years until 2011 and includes housing growth in ways which promote carbon 40 performance indicators, taken from the national set reduction, focusing on industries and skills for the of performance indicators. Successful performance will future result in additional Government funding being made • reduce the high level of inequality between parts of available to Hertfordshire. The first LAA came to an the county, e.g. reducing health inequalities across end in 2009, payment of performance reward grant Hertfordshire in particular within Broxbourne, is expected in January 2010, and is anticipated to be and between £15 and £18 million. The county and local • support partners in Hertfordshire working on LSPs have put in place mechanisms for allocating this community safety and substance misuse. In funding to local priorities. Broxbourne LSP contributes to particular, raising public confidence in the police the delivery of the LAA targets. Monitoring of progress and partners and reducing perceptions of anti- will be carried out on a regular basis by the LSP social behaviour when disaggregated information is available. Where • implement the Child Poverty strategy that is being necessary action will be taken to improve performance. developed between the PCT, Police and County Council to target support to the most vulnerable families and children Map showing Broxbourne • progress the two-tier Pathfinder pilot for local and Hertfordshire authorities, including joint use of the total public sector resource • improve community empowerment and engagement across Hertfordshire. Countywide community planning At county level, community planning is led by Hertfordshire Forward, the County LSP. This group includes representation from some district level authorities, Hertfordshire County Council, the voluntary sector and business interests. The Sustainable Community Strategy for Hertfordshire (Hertfordshire 2021: A Brighter Future) was updated in 2008, it has the following themes:

• Jobs, Prosperity and Skills • Safer and Stronger Communities • Children and Young People • An Ageing Population • Health and Wellbeing • Housing, Affordable Housing and Quality Neighbourhoods • Transport and Access

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 5 update risk management arrangements to ensure Community planning in coverage of risks in relation to key partnership working.” A protocol is being developed to respond to this Broxbourne recommendation. Where possible, the opportunities The Local Strategic Partnership in Broxbourne presented by new technology will be used to develop continues to be remarkable for the number of actions and deliver solutions, e.g. web-based communication on the ground, which have resulted from the community with residents, use of shared web-based resources by planning process and made a difference to residents’ working groups to plan and develop solutions. lives. The membership of the LSP has changed during the period of the last Community Plan, as organisations Development of this strategy have changed. Gaps identified at that time have been The findings of the Community Audit, consultations and filled, representation has been secured for the business the Resource Inventory have been brought together sector, via Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and to identify areas of unmet need. Challenges and Industry, and for Hertfordshire Highways, who have opportunities facing the Borough and feedback from the responsibility for highways and transport planning. first Comprehensive Area Assessment (CAA) conducted Until 2010 delivery of Community Plan objectives was by the Audit Commission, which reported in December undertaken by thematic groups, one for each theme. 2009 were also considered. The areas of unmet need Each group produced action plans and prioritised form the priorities to be addressed within this strategy. actions within its own area of responsibility, leading Priorities are identified within each theme of the plan, to over 24 priorities for the LSP. The Comprehensive and are shown on the thematic pages which follow. Performance Assessment of Broxbourne Borough Priority issues have been identified because they were Council published by the Audit Commission in June either: 2009 recommended improvements in action planning and performance reporting for the LSP. An increased • raised by a large number of residents or focus on a small number of issues will be adopted stakeholder groups during consultation during the life of this strategy; the process to be used • issues where Broxbourne performs poorly in for 2010 onwards is described in the paragraph below. comparison to countywide or nationwide statistics This approach will respond to the Audit Commission’s • national priorities recommendation on processes, and it is hoped will • an opportunity which can be seized at this moment prove a more effective delivery method than the in time previous thematic approach. The Council’s Use of Resources assessment by the Audit Commission in or a combination of any of the above. July 2009 recommended that the Council “review and

agencies. Other items will increase in importance and Method of working will be the focus of targeted action in the future. Each year the LSP will decide upon the key issues on which activity and resources will be focused. These will be The process is described by the diagram below: selected from the priorities within each theme. Ideally there will be no more than five of these. Multi-agency working groups of officers from partner organisations will be tasked by the LSP with finding and implementing solutions to these problems. Working groups will be time limited, and will be reformed to meet the need of new priorities. Where statutory groups exist (Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership, Children’s Trust Partnership), they will lead on issues within their areas of responsibility. Performance indicators will be chosen for each issue, to enable monitoring of progress. These indicators are drawn from either the national indicator set or other local indicators identified by the working group. Monitoring of progress will be carried out on a regular basis by the LSP.

Many of the Items not chosen for action will be progressed as part of the core business of partner

6 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Consultation and scrutiny

A comprehensive process of consultation assisted with • Workshops for staff at Broxbourne Borough the development of this strategy which comprised: Council, for members of the LSP and for Borough and County Councillors • A survey form was sent to 4,200 randomly selected • Businesses were contacted by letter, and views residents. Over 700 replies were received sought at a Broxbourne business network meeting. • Local voluntary organisations were contacted by • National Place Survey Broxbourne and East Herts CVS, and letters were sent to residents groups, as a result a number of Scrutiny meetings were held with individual groups • Meetings were held with young people at Reports of progress on SCS objectives are made to secondary schools the LSP on a regular basis. During 2010 a process will • Older people were contacted at the Borough be developed for reports to be made to Broxbourne Councils consultation events in April and October Council’s Scrutiny Committee. 2009

Place Survey

In Autumn 2008 a “Place Survey” was commissioned by the Government and carried out across the country. When asked what Broxbourne residents think makes The survey captured residents views and perceptions somewhere a good place to live, the level of crime was about the area in which they live. 1,541 completed most important (65 per cent) followed by health services questionnaires were received from residents of (50 per cent) and clean streets (47 per cent). Race Broxbourne Borough; these responses have been used relations was considered the least important with only (3 to inform this strategy. A summary of responses is set per cent) of respondents selecting this. out below: Priority analysis summary The local area Priority analysis summary Less Important, Most Needs More Important, Most Needs Improving Improving The majority of Broxbourne residents are very or fairly IMPROVEMENTS REQUIRED PRIORITIES FOR IMPROVEMENT Roads and pavement repairs Activities for teenagers satisfied with their local area as a place to live (74 per The level of traffic congestion Clean streets cent) and the same is true across Hertfordshire (84 per Health services Public Transport cent). Only 12 per cent of Broxbourne residents and 7 Shopping facilities per cent of Hertfordshire residents are dissatisfied. The level of crime Less Important, Least Needs More Important, Least Needs Improving Improving Key Points LOW PRIORITY STRENGTHS KEY STRENGTHS Community activities Access to nature Cultural facilities Affordable decent housing Facilities for young children Education provision The majority of residents (74 per cent) are satisfied with Job prospects Parks and open spaces their area as a place to live. The majority of residents Race relations Sports and leisure facilities (88 per cent) are also satisfied with their home. Elderly The level of pollution residents are significantly more likely than average to Wage levels and local cost of living be satisfied with their area and home. Residents in rented accommodation and non-white residents are significantly less likely than average to be satisfied. Just over half (56 per cent) of residents feel that they belong to their immediate neighbourhood; in particular, residents aged 65 or over and retired residents. Residents who are significantly more likely to feel that they do not belong are those aged 18-34 or in rented accommodation.

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 7 The Local Strategic Partnership The Broxbourne Local Strategic Partnership (LSP) Local Development Framework (LDF) consists of high level representation from all public and voluntary sector bodies in the area. The LSP has Broxbourne Borough Council, in partnership with responsibility for producing a community plan and for other bodies such as Hertfordshire County Council, carrying out the actions within it. must address key planning issues and plan for LSP members are: new development in the Borough through the Local Development Framework. The LDF will be guided by • Aldwyck Housing Association the East of England Regional Plan – which sets out • Broxbourne Borough Council how many homes need to be built and how many jobs • Broxbourne Citizens Advice Bureau need to be provided – and the Sustainable Community • Broxbourne Housing Association Strategy – which sets out the overall vision for the future • Broxbourne and East Herts Council for Voluntary of the Borough. It will seek to deliver the SCS themes Service and priorities which relate to the use and development • Hertford Regional College of land, namely housing and employment land, the • Hertfordshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry physical regeneration of key sites and the integration of • Hertfordshire Constabulary development and transport planning. It will also provide • Hertfordshire County Council the policy framework to support key priorities such as • Hertfordshire PCTs sustainable living and development, affordable housing • Hertfordshire Police Authority and the protection of open spaces and wildlife sites. • Lee Valley Regional Park Authority The Broxbourne Ethnic Minority association have previously received papers only, having indicated that they did not wish to participate in board meetings. This position changed in 2009, and they have been invited to attend meetings from January 2010.

Vision The Local Strategic Partnership (LSP) has the following vision for the Borough: Broxbourne will continue to be a pleasant, prosperous, safe, healthy and green place where people want to live, work, spend leisure time and do business. The sense of place and of community will be enhanced. The LSP aims to work with the local community to improve the quality of life for all those living and working in the Borough in a sustainable way by: • maintaining a healthy, safe and prosperous Borough with a vibrant local economy. • increasing the vitality of the Borough’s town centres • increasing the level of educational attainment and promoting life long learning within the Borough • providing recreational, sporting, exercise and cultural opportunities for all, including targeted activities for young people • increasing the provision of a range of housing to buy or to rent • promoting sustainable living and development • maintaining, protecting and improving the environment • making transport improvements to reduce congestion and make it easier to use public transport or to walk or cycle • providing quality local services that provide value for money • increasing community pride, cohesion and engagement of citizens • encouraging equality of opportunity for all residents and celebrating diversity within the Borough

8 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Outcomes of the Community Plan 2007-09 Achievements on the ground: Redevelopment of Hertford Regional Many outcomes are clearly visible on the ground – these College include: An Urgent Care Centre at Cheshunt Community Hospital

Adult and family learning room at Arlesdene children’s

centre in Cheshunt

A treatment room at the Urgent Care Centre which opened in October 2009 at Cheshunt Community Hospital

Following investment by the NHS and the Borough An artist’s impression of the new buildings at Hertford Council to expand the hospital buildings, during 2008- Regional College, where students now learn in an 09 the LSP contributed to a successful campaign to innovative and inspiring new environment persuade the NHS to site an Urgent Care Centre at The new teaching facilities at the redeveloped Cheshunt Community Hospital. The centre opened in campus at Hertford Regional College’s Turnford site October 2009, it offers: opened in November 2009. This new building which is part of the College’s £63m development programme • care for patients with accidental injuries and provides state of the art facilities for learning with an medical emergencies that do not need intensive or exciting blend of social spaces and learning areas for all specialist care students at the Broxbourne Centre to study and relax in. • diagnostics and treatment areas for wound This latest building completes the redevelopment of the stitching, sprains and minor fractures Broxbourne campus adding to the new Sports Centre Patients attending the centre who have life threatening and specialist facilities for construction, motor vehicle conditions will be transferred by emergency ambulance and engineering that were completed last year. The local to an appropriate hospital. community will be able to use the new fitness gym and sports hall as part of a community use agreement with Adult and Family learning facilities at the Borough Council and the College will welcome use Arlesdene and Longfield Children’s of the other facilities such as the performance theatre centres by the local community. The College is the lead agency Community and adult learning facilities were provided at for the establishment of a Children’s Centre, which, with Arlesdene Children’s Centre in Cheshunt and Longfield partner organisations will provide a range of services Children’s centre in End; these opened in for children from birth to five years and their families. 2008 and provide courses which include: parenting, Hertfordshire Police are to establish a locality police IT, and numeracy. The facilities were funded by the base adjacent to the children’s centre as a base for local and Hertfordshire County police and police community support officers, to which Council, with the children’s centres themselves being Broxbourne Council has contributed £100,000. This provided using Government funds. building should be completed in the summer 2010.

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 9 Opening up employment sites the developers of this site have recently gone into administration, which has caused uncertainty as to the Development at the Road industrial site in north- future of this project. The development at Fawkon Walk east Hoddesdon was facilitated by the provision of a includes new housing units, 28 of which are affordable new road bridge to replace the level crossing over the housing flats already occupied by tenants. railway. Industrial development started in February 2006, and it is now nearing completion. Almost all the larger units have been let or occupied. Surveys of employers estimate that over 500 jobs have already been created on the site. Print production began at News International’s print works scheme at Park Plaza, Waltham Cross in spring 2008. A 100-room Travelodge hotel opened on the site in July 2007. Significant financial contributions have been received from News International for station improvements, life long learning and environmental improvements. 535 jobs have been created on this site so far. Fawkon Walk development, where tenants have moved in to the flats Holdbrook regeneration

Work to improve the estate at Holdbrook South was completed during 2008 at a cost of around £700,000. This included £350,000 from the Government’s “Investing in Communities” fund, from the East of England Development Agency (EEDA), with other contributions from Broxbourne Borough Council, Broxbourne Health Shuttle, which takes residents of Hertfordshire County Council, Broxbourne Housing all ages from their homes to local hospitals Association and Aldwyck Housing Association. Health Shuttle Improvements include a new community centre, refurbishments to the shopping precinct, a kickabout A hospital shuttle bus service to take residents of the court and new play areas for small children. The Borough to Chase Farm hospital in was community centre opened in May 2008. Hertford initiated by LSP partners in April 2007, in response to Regional College provide courses there including residents’ concerns about the difficulty of accessing ‘Computers for Beginners’, ‘English for Speakers of local hospitals. The service has since been extended Other Languages’ (ESOL), and First Aid. The community to serve the QEII in Garden City, the Lister building is available for booking by groups and the Hospital in Stevenage, the Princess Alexandra Hospital floodlit kickabout area has been used by West Ham in and Barnet Hospital. The service is funded by United FC for football training sessions as part of a the Borough Council, Hertfordshire County Council and programme of outreach activities. East and North Herts Primary Care Trust. The service is run by the Women’s Royal Voluntary Service (WRVS), one of the UK’s largest charities and volunteering organisations. The service picks up residents who have made a booking from their home and drops them off at the relevant hospital clinic. Fawkon Walk development, Hoddesdon

The Council has used planning gain money from new developments to improve GP surgeries in the Borough. A new doctor’s surgery in Hoddesdon town centre Holdbrook Community Centre, which is used for skill (Fawkon Walk) is planned to open soon, as a result of development, money advice, and a pre-school play joint work between the Council and the PCT. However group

10 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Achievements shown in numbers: The list below indicates the progress that has been made by all partners on some of the key objectives of the first community plan: Crime

Police data shows that between April 2006 and March 2009:

• The recorded level of crime in the Borough decreased by 14 per cent (from 8,729 to 7,500 offences). • Incidences of criminal damage decreased significantly, from 2,288 to 1,515 incidents; a Next Step in Waltham Cross, which provides training decrease of 34 per cent. and advice for job seekers • The recorded level of anti-social behaviour in Broxbourne decreased by 16 per cent, from 9,616 • There have been significant increases in the incidences to 8,057 incidences per year. qualifications held by Broxbourne residents between 2004 and 2007, as demonstrated by the These downward trends continue in 2009/10 with at the table below: half year (September 2009) all crime being down by a further 1 per cent, criminal damage down by a further 11 Changes in qualifications held in per cent and anti-social behaviour down by 22 per cent. Broxbourne, 2004-2007

Economy 2004 2007 Percentage (%) (%) change (%) • The number of managers, professionals and NVQ4 and above 19 30 58 associate professionals and those in technical occupations in Broxbourne have been increasing NVQ3 and above 39 47 21 since 2004. NVQ2 and above 63 70 11 • There have been substantial increases in NVQ1 and above 80 85 6 employment floorspace; between 2007 and 2008 Other qualifications 7 9 29 this increased by 103,000 square metres. No qualifications 12 6 -50 • The latest data from NOMIS for 2009 shows that residents of the Borough earn £5 per week less Based on total than the regional average and £73 per week less working age than Hertfordshire residents. population Average full-time gross weekly earnings by ONS Annual Population Survey, 2007 residence, 2008 Housing 600

Broxbo urne • Successful homelessness prevention work has Hertfordshire 400 East of resulted in far fewer households having to make En gland homeless applications to the Council. £ En gland • On 1 January 2009, there were 44 households 200 in temporary accommodation, which represented a drop in numbers of over 80 per cent, a performance that is in the top 10 per cent of

0 authorities in the East of England. 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, 2008

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 11 Deprivation Environment

• In 2007 the Borough had four Super Output • Between 2007/08 and 2008/09 the amount of Areas in the 10 most deprived in Hertfordshire, residual waste produced by households decreased a reduction from five in 2004. Deprivation is and recycling increased: measured using the Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD), which uses data from a range of indicators, Type Change Percentage employment, skills, income, environment, health, change crime, and barriers to housing and services. Total weight of residual 738kg to -13.6% waste collected per 638kg household Total weight of refuse 24,795 -17.2% collected per household tonnes to 20,506 tonnes Recycling and compost 29.8% to +5.3% rates 35.1% Weight of recyclables 2,037 + 24.4% collected from local tonnes neighbourhood recycling to 2,535 centres tonnes

Transport

• The two roads in Broxbourne that were monitored as part of the County Council’s bicycle monitoring programme in 2007/08 (Crossbrook Street, Waltham Cross, and High Street, Hoddesdon) had a greater number of cyclists per day than the county average. Map showing IMD data for 2007

Key: Most deprived areas are in red, moving towards blue least deprived.

Waltham Cross Railway Station, where car-parking facilities have been improved and extended

12 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Resources for Sustainable Community Strategy priorities

In order to address the issues identified funding is required. Funding from partners In many cases this will be found from the existing resources of partner organisations. For the Sustainable Community Much of the work to meet objectives of the SCS is funded Strategy (SCS) to be an effective planning and delivery from the core budgets of partner organisations. Voluntary mechanism, it is essential that all organisations consider organisations may apply for funding from Broxbourne SCS priorities when determining how their resources will Borough Council and Hertfordshire County Council. In both be allocated. In some cases services are provided to local of these cases priority is given to applications which are residents by one organisation alone, e.g. schools, in other expected to deliver outcomes which will support the areas cases partners work together to provide a service, e.g. adult of need identified by the SCS, at either a Borough or County learning at children’s centres. level. The NHS also offers funding for health improvement projects, for which voluntary or statutory organisations may External Funding apply. This funding is administered by the Health Partnership for Broxbourne, and successful bids must address needs Statutory and voluntary bodies can apply for funding by identified in the SCS. The four main Registered Social external organisations such as the lottery fund, or by regional Landlords in the Borough have also made funding available government agencies, e.g. East of England Development for projects which meet their and SCS objectives. Agency. Where possible, bids for external funding will be made to support action on those issues identified as key The CVS for Broxbourne and East Herts provides extensive priorities. information to local voluntary organisations about sources of external funding resources, particularly small grants – Planning gain funding and enhances many aspects of fundraising and bid writing through one to one support, training, forum presentations and As part of the process for mitigating the impact of electronic information. developments in the Borough, planning gain agreements Performance Reward Grant are made between planning authorities and developers. These agreements are designed to ensure necessary Hertfordshire as a whole will receive approximately £17million funding is available from developers to pay for issues such as from the Government in early 2010 as a result of achieving improvements in highways, increases in education provision targets for the first Local Area Agreement. Half of this money etc. In addition all developers in Broxbourne are now required is to be distributed countywide for projects to mitigate the to make a contribution to areas of need identified in the SCS. effects of recession, and an initiative targeting those families This money is then used to fund initiatives to address those most in need. The remaining money is to be distributed to needs. New legislation on planning gain money is expected District LSPs for local use. Broxbourne LSP will be using in the near future, which may affect the amount available to their share to support projects which will help to deliver the Broxbourne. Planning gain is for a wide variety of purposes, objectives of this strategy. notably affordable housing and general environmental programmes, it is not applicable to all developers.

There is a potential for the introduction of the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) which allows councils to obtain a proportion of the uplift value of land once it secures planning permission. The 11 authorities in Hertfordshire are currently debating the merits of a county wide levy and distribution mechanism. It could play a fundamental role in how the Borough funds and delivers infrastructure in the future. A key function of the Core Strategy will be to identify specific infrastructure items which are needed to support development News International Print Works at Park Plaza in and regeneration. Waltham Cross, which resulted in £1.5 million of planning gain money being available for projects in the Waltham Cross area.

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 13 Themes for 2010-2021

The strategy has been divided into nine themes, each of Respondents to the residents’ survey considered which focuses on a specific area for action. The themes that sustaining and improving the character of local are: settlements was of the most importance of any thematic area of work, this theme encompasses town centres • Health and Wellbeing and protecting green spaces. Hence it has been • Community Safety incorporated into two areas of work, the cross-cutting • Children and Young People theme of town centre vitality and within the environment • Jobs, Prosperity and Skills theme. Within each of the thematic sections which follow • Places to Live is a list of the priorities for action, an explanation of why • Transport and Access these are priorities, and examples of projects currently • The Environment underway which are addressing the identified priority • Stronger Communities issues. • Older People

There are also a number of cross-cutting issues listed below which more than one thematic area will have an impact on. Where relevant these issues are mentioned within the thematic sections, as are linkages between themes. Cross cutting issues:

• Community cohesion (people getting on well together) • Town centre vitality • Quality of life • Sustainability • Technological advances • Equality and access (includes deprivation issues as well as disability, ethnicity etc.) • Olympics

Proposed facility building at the Olympic White Water Canoe Centre

14 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 activity can improve the health of all sections of the Theme 1: Health and population. Since the first Sport England survey in Wellbeing 2006 levels of adult physical activity have increased in the Borough, and are no longer below the average When compared on a national basis, residents of for England.(Sport England Survey, 2008). However, Broxbourne enjoy good health and are able to access improving fitness for all can beneficially affect other the health services that they require. However there are priorities such as reducing obesity. In 2012 the some specific areas where the health of local residents Olympics will be held in London. The White Water and their access to services could be improved. Canoe Slalom event will be held in Broxbourne Borough, in a specially constructed course in Waltham Residents’ views: Cross, next to the river Lee. The course will be available before the Olympics start and will remain In the Place Survey, 79.5 per cent of Broxbourne residents in place after the Olympics have ended. Both the said their health was good or very good compared to a Olympics in general and the canoe event in particular Hertfordshire average of 75.8 per cent. Respondents to offer opportunities to increase engagement of residents the place survey put health services in the category of in sport and fitness activities. most important and most needs improving. Raising awareness of local health Priorities for action: services

• tackling obesity An urgent care centre opened at Cheshunt Community • reducing the numbers of people who smoke hospital in October 2009, as a pilot. The centre • increasing levels of fitness for all provides care for patients with accidental injuries and • raising awareness of local health services urgent medical attention that does not need intensive • improving access to health services or specialist care, diagnostics and treatment for wound • reducing inequalities in health stitching, sprains and minor fractures. Retaining this provision is important for residents, given that it is Why are these priorities? planned to move Accident and Emergency services Tackling obesity further away from the area. Obesity is one of the biggest public health issues and Improving access to health services its prevalence is increasing. Obesity is an important risk factor for mortality and a range of chronic diseases The range of facilities (outpatient clinics, ante-natal care in later life. 26 per cent of adults in Broxbourne are etc.) offered at Cheshunt Community hospital could be obese, compared to 22 per cent in Hertfordshire. increased. Reviews of GP surgeries and mental health Healthy eating amongst adults in Broxbourne appears facilities are being conducted by commissioners and worse than the England average (modelled estimate providers during 2009-10, these provide an opportunity from Health Survey for England 2003-2005). Tackling to utilise the resources of all relevant partners to childhood obesity is a priority within the Children and improve access. Young People theme of this strategy. Reducing the numbers of people who smoke One in five of all deaths is due to smoking, whilst seven in 10 premature deaths are due to the big killers – heart disease, stroke and smoking. (Death before the age of 75 is considered premature). Smoking attributable mortality in Broxbourne is 2.8 per cent, compared to a Hertfordshire rate of 2.3 per cent. Increasing levels of fitness for all surgery, which was improved using planning Improving levels of fitness and participation in physical gain money

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 15 Reducing inequalities in health Targeting fuel poverty

Health inequalities exist, the gap in life expectancy Reducing fuel poverty through maximising spend between the highest and lowest wards in the Borough on making homes warmer and improving energy is 5.3 years for men and 3.4 years for women. efficiency will reduce health inequalities and contribute Hertfordshire PCTs have identified areas in Broxbourne to reducing carbon output. Many residents are eligible which are particular priorities for health improvement. for help which they may not be aware of. As part of These are: Waltham Cross, Bury Green, Rosedale and their normal work visiting clients, a number of voluntary Goffs Oak, Wormley and Turnford, Cheshunt North and organisations will briefly explain the improvements on Hoddesdon Town. offer, observe the living environment and ask enough questions to indicate if the person is in fuel poverty. Supporting documents and plans: With the client’s permission, the voluntary organisation will then pass the contact details of the person to the NHS (2008) Broxbourne Health Profile 2008 Council’s environmental health service, who will request Hertfordshire Forward (2009) Health and Wellbeing a formal assessment be done by the Herts and Essex Action Plan 2009-2011 Energy Partnership. Hertfordshire Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (2008) Links to cross-cutting themes:

Town centre vitality – by encouraging local provision of health services Sustainability of lifestyles: reducing fuel poverty improves health and reduces carbon emissions Equality- by targeting areas of need in order to address health inequalities Olympics: - The 2012 Olympics will provide a means of increasing participation in sporting activity. Insulation materials being installed to make homes warmer and reduce fuel costs Links to other SCS themes: Health in Mind Children and Young people: – teenage pregnancy, healthy weight The ‘Health in Mind’ project will deliver a programme of Housing: - poor quality housing can adversely affect interactive well being courses and sessions to people health with mental ill health who want to improve their physical Jobs, Prosperity and Skills: - health inequalities can health and general well being. Sessions will aim to reduce be linked to deprivation smoking, increase physical activity and improve diet. Transport and Access: - cycling and walking have a positive effect on health ‘Air Alert’ service Older People: - as people get older they are likely to have more health problems Broxbourne residents can now take advantage of the new ‘Air Alert’ service, a free ‘early-warning’ air Current projects quality service, launched by the Herts and Beds Air Quality Network. Air alert is a free advice service to Active Young Mums those residents with respiratory conditions such as The project run by NACRO is aimed at young mothers, asthma and other lung related diseases. The service aged up to 25. The project consists of hour long sport is designed to inform residents of a pollution episode and leisure sessions four times per week and aims the day before it is expected. Broxbourne residents to increase physical activity and social inclusion. The with asthma, other respiratory sessions target young mothers who are marginalised complaints or just an interest in and disaffected, perhaps through social exclusion. The air quality can register for the free work includes both mother and child to remove the child service online at www.airalert. care barrier. info. Registration is easy and only takes a few minutes.

16 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Anti-social 2008 (%) % point Theme 2: Community Safety behaviour change 2006 (%) In comparison with other areas of the country, Broxbourne 22 28 +6 Hertfordshire, including Broxbourne, is a safe place to live. 23 15 -8 However, when surveyed, residents identify crime and East 20 14 -6 anti-social behaviour as priority areas for action. The fear Hertfordshire of crime is disproportionately high compared to the actual 27 17 -10 rates of crime. North 19 16 -3 Residents views Hertfordshire St. Albans 13 10 -3 Respondents to the 2009 residents’ survey ranked anti- Stevenage 24 16 -8 social behaviour 5th and crime and community safety 6th Three Rivers 21 12 -9 of important issues facing people in the Borough. Problems Watford 32 21 -11 with young people, often linked by residents with anti- 23 19 -4 social behaviour, were ranked 1st. The level of crime and activities for teenagers were two of the issues considered Respondents to the recent survey of residents indicated most important and most in need of improvement by their priorities for action to improve feelings of safety.These respondents to the place survey. were: • more visible uniformed patrols by police (36.5 per cent) Priorities for action • fewer young people hanging about (27.8 per cent) • more CCTV (11.6 per cent) The Broxbourne Crime and Disorder Reduction • a cleaner environment (10.6 per cent). Partnership, which includes the Borough Council, Hertfordshire County Council, Hertfordshire Police and Reducing crime and managing offenders other statutory bodies has adopted the objectives below as priorities in the Community Safety Plan 2009-12: Compared to the rest of Hertfordshire, levels of some types of crime in Broxbourne Borough are relatively high. Crime • Improving feelings of safety in the community rates in general are just above the average for England • Reducing crime and managing offenders and Wales. In particular there were high rates of vehicle • Tackling alcohol/drug misuse crime and dwelling burglary in 2008-09. • Tackling anti-social behaviour Tackling\\BROXSTORE1\R_Drive\community alcohol/drug misuse plan\Community Plan 2009\Draft SCS\SCS 2010- 34 The Community Safety Plan is based on an annual 2021 draft 1.1.doc R:\community plan\Community Plan strategic crime and disorder assessment of the Broxbourne 2009\Draft SCS\SCS 2010- Recorded crime BCS comparator 2021 draft 1.1.doc area. The latest assessment was carried out in late 2008. 60 Offences per 1,000 population 08/09

New targets will be aimed at individuals and families, not 50 areas and more work will be done to integrate the district 40

Children’s Trust Partnership and local educational bodies. 30 Why are these priority areas? 20 10 Stevenage AlbansSt Watford Dacorum Hatfield Hertsmere Herts East Improving feelings of safety in the 0 Broxbourne Welwyn Herts North RiversThree District Hertfordshire Total England and Wales community

ResidentsTackling alcohol/drug have frequently misuse expressed concern about the The Place Survey (2008) shows that generally local public Residents have frequently expressed concern about the availability of alcohol, especially to perceptions about anti-social behaviour and related issues availabilityyoung people. of Testalcohol, purchasing especially operations to undertakenyoung people. by trading Test standards officers show that purchasingsale of alcohol operations to under 18s undertaken is a problem, with by thetrading highest standards failure rate in Hertfordshire and have worsened over the last three years, with perceptions several premises have been prosecuted. Along with other district and borough councils in the Borough being significantly worse than other places officersBroxbourne show Council that has sale taken of onalcohol the responsibility to under for 18s issuing is alicences to sell alcohol, these problem,powers can with be usedthe tohighest refuse re-licensingfailure rate of premisesin Hertfordshire which flout the law. in the County. andTackling several anti-social premises behaviour have been prosecuted. Along with What follows is a comparison of overall perceptions of otherTotal districtrecorded and level boroughof anti-social councils behaviour Broxbourne in Broxbourne Councildecreased from 2006 to 2009 by 14% (from 8,729 to 7,500 offences). In 2008/09 five Borough wards showed increased anti- anti-social behaviour in Hertfordshire between Best Value hassocial taken behaviour on the levels responsibility compared with for the issuingprevious year,licences with the to Rosedalesell ward showing the General Survey (2006) and Place Survey (2008) score. alcohol,greatest thesepercentage powers increase. can The be remaining used to eight refuse wards re-licensing showed reduced of anti-social behaviour levels with the biggest percentage and actual decreases being in Wormley and premisesTurnford ward. which The flout Borough’s the law.three town centres are a focal point for levels of anti social behaviour, with lesser issues associated with local shopping parades.

Residents identify problems with young people as the most important issue facing people in the borough. Such problems are often associated with anti-social behaviour. Provision of Broxactivitiesbourne for young Su peoplestaina is baddressedle Community within the Strategy Children and 2010 Young - 21 People17 theme of this plan. Adult’s views of young people are often influenced by the behaviour of a minority. Encouragement of positive interaction between adults and young people, and promotion of the positive behaviour of the majority of young people will help to address fears.

Supporting documents:

Broxbourne Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership (2009), Community Safety Plan 2009-12

Links to cross-cutting themes:

Page 34 of 76

Tackling anti-social behaviour funding support for the provision of Police Community The total recorded level of anti-social behaviour in Support Officers (PCSOs). Dedicated anti-social behaviour Broxbourne decreased from 2006 to 2009 by 14 per cent resources comprise a co-ordinator based at Broxbourne (from 8,729 to 7,500 offences). In 2008/09 five Borough Council and an investigator based at Cheshunt Police wards showed increased anti-social behaviour levels Station, together with personnel based in housing compared with the previous year, with the Rosedale ward associations. showing the greatest percentage increase. The remaining eight wards showed reduced anti-social behaviour levels Community payback with the biggest percentage and actual decreases being Offenders can be given non-custodial sentences which in Wormley and Turnford ward. The Borough’s three town require them to perform community payback work which centres are a focal point for levels of anti-social behaviour, is of benefit to residents. In liaison with the probation with lesser issues associated with local shopping parades. service, Broxbourne Council has arranged for a number of environmental tidying up schemes to take place, including Residents identify problems with young people as the most litter picking in College Brook, Cheshunt, the Asters, Goffs important issue facing people in the Borough. Such problems Oak and Trafalgar Avenue, Broxbourne. Further schemes will are often associated with anti-social behaviour. Provision of be arranged. activities for young people is addressed within the Children and Young People theme of this plan. Adults’ views of young people are often influenced by the behaviour of a minority. Encouragement of positive interaction between adults and young people, and promotion of the positive behaviour of the majority of young people will help to address fears. Supporting documents: Broxbourne Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership (2009), Community Safety Plan 2009-12 Strategic Assessments of Crime and Disorder Hertfordshire Police Authority Policing Plan 2009-2012 Links to cross-cutting themes: Community cohesion - reducing the fear of crime helps Community payback team cleaning a brook in Cheshunt enable people to positively interact with others and to get out and about. Improving access to the Police Town centre vitality: reducing crime in town centres will Enhanced technology and resourcing have improved the encourage use of pubs, restaurants and shops. service for both emergency call handling and contact made Quality of life: fear of crime is an important factor in people’s via 0845 3300222. The Safer Neighbourhood Team will quality of life. respond to non emergency queries within 24 hours and are Use of technology: CCTV and ANPR cameras, use visible within the community for over 80 per cent of their duty of voicemail, text messaging etc to communicate with time. neighbourhood watch groups. Technology has also been introduced to enable the Links to other SCS themes: community to call officers directly whilst they are on patrol. Children and Young People: provision of activities for young There are now public meeting events in every locality at least people once a month. These minimum standards on accessibility Stronger Communities: people are less likely to fear crime and quality of service are contained in the Policing Pledge if they feel their local community is cohesive. which can be found, together with helpful advice and how to Transport and Access: fear of crime can deter usage of access policing services at www.herts.police.uk . public transport. An additional police base opening at Hertford Regional Current projects: College in the summer of 2010 will build on the access already available at Hoddesdon and Cheshunt police Sale of alcohol licence reviews stations. There were five licence reviews in 2008/09, an increase over previous years. There were none in 2007/08 and one in both 2005/06 and 2006/07. In 2008/09 one public house was reviewed and four convenience stores/off-licences. In the main tighter restrictions were imposed on the premises as a result of the reviews but in two cases the right to sell alcohol was withdrawn. Resources to combat anti-social behaviour Broxbourne Council and local secondary schools provide Hoddesdon Police Station, which reopened in 2007

18 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 dropped. Ensuring the teenage pregnancy rate stays Theme 3: Children and low and does not revert to previous levels is important, as is support for existing young parents. Young People Reduce underage drinking and substance misuse The Children’s Act 2004 identified five key outcomes for children. These are known as the “Every Child Matters” Drinking and substance misuse have an adverse impact outcomes, and are: on health and can affect behaviour. • Being Healthy Staying safe • Staying Safe • Enjoying and Achieving Increase support available for vulnerable children • Making a positive contribution Vulnerable children include those with emotional and • Achieving economic wellbeing mental health problems and those with disabilities. These outcomes form the planning framework for the Enabling disabled children to take part in activities Children’s Trust Partnership for Broxbourne who are available to other children, including after school responsible for delivering this theme of the Strategy. activities is important. Residents’ views: Enjoying and achieving

Continue to improve levels of attainment and enable Residents’ survey: problems with young people was the young people to fulfil their potential top priority issue facing the Borough today. Place Survey: activities for teenagers - a priority for There is a general pattern of increasing achievement improvement. Parents not taking responsibility for their at GCSE and A level nationally, in Hertfordshire and children was an issue of concern. in Broxbourne. However, the level of achievement in Broxbourne remains below national and county Priorities for action: averages. Levels of absence from school are higher than the County average. • Address healthy weight issues • Reduce the teenage conception rate Increasing attainment for the full range of qualifications, • Continue to improve levels of attainment and including NVQs and other vocational qualifications is enable young people to fulfil their potential important to ensure young people can gain access to • Provide more activities for young people jobs. • Reduce the number of young people not in education, employment or training % o f p up ils a t the e nd o f K e y S ta g e 4 a c hie ving 5 + a *-C inc . e ng lis h a nd M a ths a t g C S e a nd e q uiva le nt, 2 0 0 7 /0 8 • Extend the range of parenting support available three r ivers • Reduce underage drinking and substance misuse e ast Herts • Increase support available for vulnerable children S t. albans W atford Being healthy Hertfordshire North Herts Herts m ere

Address healthy weight issues D acorum W elw yn Hatfield Children entering primary school and aged 10 to 11 Broxbourne are now routinely weighed. There have been increases S tevenage in obese and overweight children in both age groups 0.0 10.0 20.0 30.0 40.0 50.0 60.0 70.0 80.0 in Broxbourne, whilst in Hertfordshire as a whole, numbers fell. Underweight children and young people, Making a positive contribution which include those suffering from anorexia and similar disorders are also a matter of concern. Provide more activities for young people

Reduce the teenage conception rate A lack of activities for young people is frequently identified by residents as a reason for groups of young Although when compared nationally rates are average, people hanging about and engaging in anti-social until 2007 Broxbourne had a high rate of teenage behaviour. Residents concerns about this issue are conceptions compared to the average for Hertfordshire. reflected in the survey results shown above. Young In 2007 this position changed dramatically and the rate people themselves also say there is not enough to do.

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 19 Achieving economic wellbeing Links to other SCS themes:

Reduce the number of young people not in Heath and wellbeing: teenage pregnancy, healthy education, employment or training: weight Community Safety: activities for young people The percentage of year 11 school leavers destined to Jobs, Prosperity and Skills: reducing the number of be NEET (not in Education, Employment or Training) in young people not in employment, education or training 2008 was 6.4 per cent, an increase from 5.4 per cent Family prosperity has an impact on the wellbeing of in 2006. This compares to a county average of 4.0 per children and young people cent, down from 4.4 per cent in 2006. There are fewer Housing: poor housing conditions can affect children’s year 11 students staying in education in Broxbourne health and achievements than in 2006: between 2006 and 2008 the percentage of pupils remaining in full time education after year 11 in Current projects: Broxbourne decreased from 82 per cent to 80 per cent. In Hertfordshire, the number increased from 84 per cent Activities for children and young people to 86 per cent. For all Every Child Matters outcomes:

Extend range of parenting support available

Help for parents can enable them to find effective ways of supporting their children to reach their full potential and to integrate into society. Parents not taking responsibility for their children was identified as an issue of concern in the Place Survey. Supporting documents and plans: Young people making use of the kickabout court Hertfordshire Forward (2009), Hertfordshire Children which was built on the site of a derelict school and Young People’s Plan 2009-11 A range of positive activities is located throughout The Children’s and Young People’s Plan for the Borough. In 2008/9 the Borough’s Let’s GO Play Hertfordshire sets out how all children and young portfolio was launched which saw Play Rangers people will be helped to reach their full potential. This delivering fun activities five-days-a-week at Holdbrook, plan is based on the outcomes of the Children’s Act Goffs Lane, Broxbourne, Grundy Park and Pound 2004, and is lead by the Hertfordshire Children’s Trust Close. Sports-based youth diversionary projects, Partnership. offering both physical activity and an alternative to anti-social behaviour, were run at the Holdbrook Estate, Links to cross-cutting themes: Canada Fields, Nightleys, Pound Close and Grundy Park in addition to the regular youth clubs / drop-ins at Sustainability of lifestyles: encouraging walking and Rosedale, Wormley and Broxbourne. The Nacro XS cycling will help to address healthy weight issues as youth diversionary project, funded by the Council, local well as reducing carbon emissions from cars: housing associations, the Herts Sports Partnership Community cohesion: reducing bullying in schools, and the Police, began in September 2008 delivering addressing anti-social behaviour by providing positive football, street dance and basketball on the Canada activities Fields estate and, from January 2009, in Wormley. Use of technology: use of text messaging and Many of these projects used the Borough’s network of websites to communicate with young people kickabout courts, with new facilities added at Hammond Equalities: addressing economic inequalities by Street, and Wormley during 2008/9. developing skills and reducing the numbers of young people who are NEET.

20 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Children’s centres Teenage conception

The provision of children’s centres across the country A new beginnings course held at High Trees Children’s is national Government policy. Children’s centres will Centre in 2009 enabled a group of young mums to provide a range of services for children under five years access education with a view to going on to further old and their families, including: education or training. There will be further training made available in 2010. A group of young mums in Waltham • Early education integrated with full day care Cross are becoming involved in a peer education • Parental outreach programme, which they plan to take into schools. They • Family support have produced a DVD and have already shown it in a • Health services few schools. • A base for childminders • Assistance for parents to access training and jobs, via links with Jobcentre Plus, local training providers and further and higher education institutions

There are five children’s centres now open in Broxbourne, at the Greenfield centre in Waltham Cross, Longfield in Flamstead End, Rye Park, High Trees in Turnford and Arlesdene in Cheshunt. The final phase of development will see children’s centres in Bury Green, Goff’s Oak and Hoddesdon.

Greenfield Children’s centre, where adults and families can learn too. Extended schools

The use of school facilities and buildings during and outside normal school hours to support a range of activities for parents and children is national Government policy. Activities may include high quality childcare, homework clubs and study support, parenting support, referral to specialist services, e.g. speech therapy, behaviour support, community access to sports and art facilities, including adult learning. It is intended that extended services will be available through all schools by 2010. Extended schools co-ordinators are in post across the Borough.

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 21 Theme 4: Jobs, Prosperity Why are these priorities? and Skills Broaden the local economic base Broxbourne is a prosperous area. Prospects for Encouraging a wider range of businesses to locate in economic growth are better than many parts of the Borough will increase the number and range of jobs Hertfordshire, with increasing numbers of jobs predicted available. by 2021(East of England forecasting model, May 2009, EEDA). However the local rate of business formation Broxbourne Council has agreed that the LDF Core lags behind other parts of the County, and on average Strategy should progress on the basis that land at Park the local population is not as well equipped to meet Plaza North be brought forward for high quality mixed the needs of today’s employers as other residents of use development and that land in the Southern A10 Hertfordshire are in terms of education and skills. Local Corridor be identified for potential future employment levels of unemployment are slightly below the national purposes, including land at Theobalds Park Farm for average. high quality business park development.

Residents’ views Greater Brookfield will be developed as a larger retail and leisure destination to complement existing town Residents’ survey: unemployment was judged to be the centres. This will provide about 1,400 new jobs and third most important issue facing people in the Borough. encourage people to do more comparison shopping Sustaining the Borough’s character, which included locally rather than travelling long distances to competing reference to town centres, was considered the most centres. important area of work. Place Survey: job prospects, wage levels and local cost of living are low priority strengths.

Priorities for action:

An Economic Development Strategy has been developed by Broxbourne Borough Council after consultation with the public, businesses and partner organisations. The priorities of that strategy will be taken forward by a sub-group of the Local Strategic Essex Road bridge, which has enabled industrial Partnership, the Broxbourne Prosperity Forum and development in North East Hoddesdon by the Broxbourne Adult Learning partnership. The priorities of the Economic Development strategy are Encourage investment in local listed below: infrastructure and provide support to • Broaden the local economic base existing and new businesses • Encourage investment in local infrastructure and Investment in infrastructure such as broadband provide support to existing and new businesses and transport links and support for businesses will • Improve the skills and educational attainment of encourage both existing businesses, those considering the local population and access to employment locating here and local people wanting to start a opportunities. business. Compared to the rest of Hertfordshire: • Support town centres in their evolving role • proportionately fewer businesses are registered • Maximise opportunities and benefits arising from in Broxbourne – Broxbourne has 3,090 VAT the London 2012 Olympic Games registered businesses which is 6.9 per cent of all • Provide support for residents and businesses Hertfordshire businesses, whilst Broxbourne has affected by the recession 8.2 per cent of Hertfordshire’s population. • Work towards a low carbon economy • there are lower numbers of new business start-ups, per capita, Broxbourne has the third lowest number of business start ups out of the 10 county districts.

22 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Canoe Slalom course, which will remain in place after Improve the skills and educational the Olympics are over, and businesses will benefit from attainment of the local population and the facility, for example those involved in providing tourist accommodation and specialist sports suppliers. access to employment opportunities Compared to the rest of Hertfordshire: Provide support for residents and • earnings in Broxbourne are relatively low - average gross weekly earnings in Broxbourne are £510, businesses affected by the recession whilst the average for Herts is £568. • unemployment is relatively high, Stevenage Advice on money management, access to business is the only district in Hertfordshire with higher support services or help with retraining can assist those unemployment rates. Unemployment increased most affected by the economic downturn. 133 per cent between May 2008 and May 2009 in Broxbourne Increase access to apprenticeships for all ages • long term unemployment is relatively high – 6.9 per cent of all claimants that have been claiming Apprenticeships provide skills for the employee and a for over 12 months in Broxbourne compared to a relatively low cost worker for the employer. Properly Hertfordshire average of 5.7 per cent regulated, apprenticeships provide a route into work for • there are pockets of high local unemployment: Out all age groups. of 193 Hertfordshire wards, Waltham Cross has the fifth highest unemployment rate, Theobalds the Supporting documents 16th, and Bury Green the 18th. • qualifications are below Hertfordshire averages Broxbourne Borough Council (2009) Economic – for example, NVQ3 equivalent and above Development Strategy (draft) 2010-13 qualifications held: Broxbourne - 47 per cent , Hertfordshire Forward (2009) Economic Development Hertfordshire - 53 per cent strategy (draft) 2009-2021 Broxbourne Borough Council (2009) Local Development Support town centres in their evolving role Framework Core Strategy Vibrant town centres have a positive effect on jobs in the East of England Regional Assembly (2009) East of retail sector and on the facilities and services available to England plan (draft) local residents and to workers in nearby employment areas. Links to cross-cutting themes:

Town centre vitality: encouraging local businesses and making use of empty shops Sustainability of lifestyles: increasing the number of local jobs and local businesses may reduce travel by car. Equalities: providing access to skill development will help to reduce inequalities in employment Use of technology: high speed broadband facilitates business and education services

Links to other SCS themes:

Hoddesdon Town Centre re-opened to traffic in late Children and Young People: reducing the number of 2009 to encourage visitors and shoppers young people not in employment, education or training. Family prosperity has an impact on the wellbeing of Maximise opportunities and benefits arising children and young people. from the London 2012 Olympic Games Stronger Communities: voluntary activity can be the first step towards a paid job. The Olympics can have a positive effect on overall prosperity. Jobs will be created at the White Water

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 23 Current projects: Redevelopment of Hertford Regional College Hertsavers Credit Union

Some people, especially the worst-off in the community, find it difficult to obtain mainstream financial products. Some find it difficult to save, have no insurance cover, and pay high interest rates when borrowing through high cost lenders such as loan sharks, home credit companies, money shops and pawn brokers. Local organisations have developed a Credit Union that gives residents and workers in the Borough of Broxbourne access to a range of ethical and affordable financial services, no matter what their financial circumstances.

Town centres Hoddesdon High Street was officially opened to through traffic on Wednesday 2 December by the Leader of Learning facilities for the 21st Century inside the the Council, Councillor Ken Ayling and the Mayor of new Hertford Regional College building Broxbourne, Councillor Mrs Lyn White. The Council hopes this will support the towns’ traders. 23 new parking spaces have been provided along the High Work began in April 2007 to redevelop Hertford Regional Street. The Council has also provided two new disabled College’s Turnford campus. All the new buildings are spaces, two new loading bays and has extended now in use and the redevelopment will be complete by the existing taxi rank in Amwell Street. Opening up April 2010 when all the car parking and new entrance the High Street is phase one of the Council’s wider have been constructed. strategy to improve Hoddesdon town centre which was The learning environment has been completely subject to consultation during September and October transformed and provides vocational training facilities 2009. Strategies are also under development for for young people and adults which are among the best improvements in Waltham Cross and Cheshunt town in the country. The new facilities include motor vehicle centres. and engineering workshops with the latest high tech equipment including a one man MOT testing bay, construction and electrical installation workshops, a fitness gym and testing suite, sports hall, performance theatre, TV studio, music recording studio, restaurant and catering kitchens, simulated air cabin, science labs, IT rooms and a management suite. The move into the new building has also seen a major step forward in the use of Information Technology to support students in developing their skills. Through a partnership with IBM, the College has created an IT network which is the fastest in any college in Europe. There are electronic whiteboards in all classrooms, laptops for use in all areas and plasma screens for general communication. The College is the lead agency for the establishment of High Trees Children’s Centre which, together with partner organisations, will provide a range of services for children from birth to five years and their families, including training for parents. The new Children’s Centre The opening up of Hoddesdon High Street to through building which will include a 72 place nursery will be traffic. completed in summer 2010.

24 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Theme 5: Places to live Identify sufficient sites to meet targets for new housing Broxbourne is a pleasant place to live; this is reflected in The East of England plan sets a minimum target of 5,600 the high cost of housing. The level of home ownership dwellings to be provided in Broxbourne between 2001- (79.8 per cent) is the highest in Hertfordshire. There is 2021. Allowing for the 2,492 homes already completed a low level of rented accommodation, a limited stock of this equates to 239 homes/ year. The Local Development social housing (the lowest in Hertfordshire), and a shortage Framework (see page 8) is the vehicle for planning of affordable housing. The development of Greater where these homes will be built. Identified infill and other Brookfield will include up to 500 new homes to help create brownfield sites are insufficient to enable this level of a lively and pleasant place to live, work and shop. provision so release of land from green belt will need to be explored. The population of the Borough is growing due to increased longevity. It has been agreed that the Residents’ views: LDF Core Strategy should progress on the basis that urban sites and up to 500 dwellings at Greater Brookfield Residents’ survey: development pressures and will provide the majority of the Borough’s housing needs overbuilding were considered to be the fourth most in the short-term and will be supported by Green Belt important issue facing the area. Housing was rated one releases in the medium-term and long-term. Areas of of the least important areas of work, this may reflect search have been identified at west of Hoddesdon, Bury the finding that when surveyed in 2007 (housing needs Green area, southern A10 corridor and Goff’s Oak area. assessment) the majority of people were satisfied with their accommodation. Improve the supply of good quality Place survey: affordable decent housing was affordable housing considered to be a key strength, important but not in The 2007 Housing Needs Assessment calculated need of improvement. between the need for affordable housing and the predicted supply, there was an annual shortfall of 680 A housing strategy for 2009-2021 has been developed by affordable homes/ year. Not only is there considerable a sub group of the LSP which was approved by LSP and need for social rented homes, but also for homes in the Council in March 2009. The priorities of that strategy are: intermediate affordable sector, such as shared ownership and intermediate rent. Households on moderate incomes • Encourage the formation of sustainable of £20,000 – £30,000 cannot easily afford to buy or rent in the private sector. Broxbourne has the lowest amount communities of social housing out of the 10 Hertfordshire districts. • Identify sufficient sites to meet targets for new housing Prevent homelessness by providing • Increase the supply of good quality affordable appropriate advice and accommodation housing for those at risk • Prevent homelessness by providing appropriate advice and accommodation for those at risk. Historically Broxbourne has had high levels of homelessness due in part to the relatively high house • Maintain and improve the quality and sustainability prices and low average incomes in the Borough. An of the existing housing stock across all tenures increased emphasis on homelessness prevention by • Improve access to and choice in housing Broxbourne Council and preventative work done by • Provide suitable accommodation and support for the Citizens Advice Bureau has resulted in a significant vulnerable people reduction in the number of households accepted as homeless in the last two years. Why these are priorities: Homelessness Acceptances and Preventions

350 Encourage the formation of sustainable 300 communities 250 Communities which have adequate infrastructure 200 Homeless (shops, services etc.) and a mix of tenures, size and 150 Preventions Households100 design are more likely to be free from problems. 50 Maximising opportunities for training and employment 0 for local people, and providing youth diversionary 2006 2007 2008 2009 activities and addressing antisocial behaviour will Ye a r improve the strength of existing communities. Source: Broxbourne BC P1E homelessness returns to Communities and Local Government 2008

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 25 Maintain and improve the quality of the Links to other SCS themes: housing stock across all tenures Health and Wellbeing: poor quality housing may affect There is a Government target that 70 per cent of health vulnerable households should be living in decent Children and Young people: poor housing conditions can homes by 2010. A private sector stock condition survey affect children’s health and achievements being carried out in 2009-10 will inform target setting The Environment: insulating housing reduces carbon and activity to ensure decent homes in this sector. output Regulation of the private rented sector, especially Stronger communities: the range and mix of housing houses in multiple occupation is important to ensure types and tenures affects community spirit and pride in the decent living standards. Local Registered Social local area Landlords are on course to achieve zero non-decent homes by 2011. Current projects: Improve access to and choice in housing

Ensuring provision of a range of types of tenure, and size of homes will maximise choice for residents and reduce overcrowding. Maximising use of private sector stock will also reduce the number of eyesore properties. There is a limited private sector rental market in the Borough, the sector is smaller (6.4 per cent) than the national average of 10 per cent.The East of England draft report on the needs of gypsy and traveller communities estimates a need for a minimum of 18 additional pitches in Broxbourne during 2008-11 and a New affordable homes under construction in the Borough further 16 pitches from 2011 – 2021. Provide suitable accommodation and Use of planning laws support for vulnerable people Since 8 December 2005 the Council negotiates for the provision of affordable housing at a rate of 40 per Hertfordshire County Council’s Supporting People cent for all residential and mixed use developments in Strategy sets out the plans for delivering the programme the Borough that are capable of accommodating 15 or of housing related support for vulnerable people in more dwellings or with an area of 0.5ha or more. This is Hertfordshire, including Broxbourne. higher than any other district in Hertfordshire. In addition many developers are required to make a financial Supporting documents and plans: contribution to the provision of affordable housing as part of their permission to build. Broxbourne Borough Council (2009) Housing Strategy 2009-2021 Choice-Based Lettings Hertfordshire County Council (2009) Supporting People Strategy 2009-12 Broxbourne Council introduced Choice-Based Lettings Broxbourne Borough Council (2009) Local Development in 2008. Under this scheme, the Council advertises Framework Core Strategy properties which are available and people on the Housing Register put in bids for the property of their Links to cross-cutting themes: choice. The bidder with the highest number of points is then offered the property. This system gives people Sustainability of lifestyles: reducing the energy use of homes greater choice in where they live, while still giving Community cohesion – addressing anti-social behaviour priority to people with the greatest housing need. It also and providing community development support helps to build stronger communities by making it easier Town centre vitality: using redundant spaces to provide for people to find a home where they want to live. homes

26 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Improve access to and user experience of Theme 6: Transport and Access railway stations Transport links along the A10 corridor are good, and the Borough is well provided with railway links and rail There is a shortage of car-parking spaces at some stations. Bus services are good along the main transport railway stations, especially Waltham Cross, Rye Park corridors and in town centres. and Cheshunt. This causes commuters to park in nearby residential streets, which is a problem for residents. Many Development in the Borough will continue to place railway stations in the Borough have limited access for the pressure on the road network, particularly the A10 which disabled and parents with pushchairs. There are few cycle accommodates both local and strategic traffic. Work routes which access rail stations, and some stations do will continue to identify potential transport solutions to not have sufficient space for buses. Many of the stations ensure road traffic flows smoothly and more people provide a poor environment for users. have access to decent public transport, walking and cycling opportunities. The development of Greater Brookfield will include a new link road to relieve congestion on the A10 and far greater emphasis on public transport, walking and cycling from nearby towns. Residents’ views:

Residents’ survey: transport and access was rated one of the least important areas of work. Place Survey: public transport was considered a priority Rye House railway station, which has very poor access for for improvement. Road and pavement repairs and traffic pedestrians and vehicles congestion were less important, but in need of improvement. Improve co-ordination between different Priorities for action: modes of transport • Use Urban Transport Studies to reduce congestion and improve facilities Facilities for buses at some railway stations are poor or • Improve access to and user experience of railway non existent. Rye House railway station has no parking stations facilities. Signage for pedestrians and cyclists directing • Improve co-ordination between different modes of them to rail and bus links is poor. transport • Improve east-west transport routes Improve east-west transport routes • Improve quality of service and facilities for all forms Public transport routes from north to south are good, but of transport there are few services which run from east to west. • Reduce car usage and hence congestion • Increase walking and cycling for short journeys Improve quality of service and facilities for all forms of transport Why are these priorities? Provision of covered seating for passengers to wait at Use Urban Transport Studies to reduce bus stops and railway stations improves the passenger congestion and improve facilities experience and increases usage. There is potential to increase the frequency of train services. Taxi ranks are to be Hertfordshire Highways are leading a process of improved as part of a range of plans to improve town centres. developing Urban Transport plans for the whole of the Borough. These plans encompass all forms of transport, Reduce car usage and hence congestion including bus and rail, walking and cycling as well as the car. A plan is being prepared for Cheshunt and Waltham Encouraging people to use other forms of transport Cross during 2009-10; this will be implemented from 2010 to the car can contribute to improving levels of onwards. A further plan will be prepared during 2010-11 fitness and reduces the use of energy resources, as for the northern part of the Borough, covering Broxbourne, well as reducing congestion on roads. The ‘school Wormley and Turnford and Hoddesdon. This plan will be run’ contributes significantly to congestion in the implemented from 2011 onwards. morning and early afternoon, and reduced children’s opportunities for exercise. Parking problems often occur around school entrances.

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 27 Increase walking and cycling for short Current Projects: journeys A10 bridge Many journeys currently undertaken by car are very short and could be achieved by cycling or walking, which would A bridge to provide cycle and pedestrian access across be beneficial for both the environment and the physical the A10 is to be built in early 2010. Funding is being fitness of the traveller. Providing information about suitable provided by the Sustrans’ ‘Connect2’ Big Lottery bid routes, parking facilities for cycles and signposting for which won a televised vote in December 2007. The cyclist and pedestrians could help people to feel more scheme is likely to cost in the region of £1.5m, funded confident about using these modes of transport. by the £500,000 grant from the lottery and money from Broxbourne Council. Supporting documents and plans: TravelSmart Hertfordshire Highways (2009) Cheshunt and Waltham Cross Urban Transport Plan (final stakeholder report) Broxbourne Borough has been chosen to participate in Broxbourne Borough Council (2009) Local Development Sustrans’ TravelSmart programme which is designed Framework Core Strategy to reverse the trend towards increased car use and to tackle its impacts on climate, public health and quality of life. Hertfordshire County Council successfully bid for government funding for this project. TravelSmart works with households offering tailor-made information and support, enabling people to walk, cycle and use public transport more often. TravelSmart programmes in other parts of the country have achieved reductions in car trips averaging more than 10 per cent together with significant increases in levels of walking, cycling and public transport use. 0-7 Waltham Cross

A project to map children’s space and journeys between children services, home and play and community facilities in the Hurst Drive area of Waltham Cross. The project aims to increase physical activity for children and reduce car usage to take children to school. Children and parents will be involved in designing improvements to the area to enhance the local travel environment. Public transport routes in the Borough of Broxbourne Access to railway stations Links to cross cutting themes: Waltham Cross: Broxbourne Council has provided a new car-park at Waltham Cross Railway Station. The new Sustainability of lifestyles – reducing car usage facility serves users of the station, users of the adjoining Equalities – improving access to public transport for the playing fields and staff and visitors to local commercial disabled. premises. The Council is working with Herts County Olympics - Improvements are planned to facilitate Council and Network Rail and National Express, who access to the Olympic site own and run the station to fund and implement a station Links to other SCS themes: improvement plan, which will include improving access for the disabled and re-building the station entrance. Health and Wellbeing: cycling and walking have a positive effect on health Theobalds Grove: a programme of station Community Safety: fear of crime at public transport improvements during 2010-11 is to be funded from nodes can discourage usage planning gain money from the Park Plaza site and The environment: reducing car usage helps to reduce contributions from National Express and Network Rail. the carbon footprint of the Borough.

28 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Raise public awareness of the impact of Theme 7: The Environment climate change The quality of the environment affects the quality of life of residents, and can have an impact on health and Scientists now agree that climate change is a serious well being. Broxbourne Borough is surrounded by high threat, not just to the environment but to our society and quality green areas, including the Lee Valley Regional economy. It is almost certain that it is a result of human Park to the East and Broxbourne woods to the west. activities contributing to, and accelerating the natural climate change process. Given the low priority placed on Residents’ Views: this issue by residents, the immediate aim therefore is to raise public awareness of the potential threat of climate Residents’ survey: reducing our impact on the change, and to gain public support for local action. environment was considered the least important area of work, and reducing contribution to climate change Reduce the Borough’s carbon footprint was rated the least important issue facing people in this Borough. Sustaining the Borough’s character, which Public and voluntary sector agencies can act to included reference to protecting green spaces, was reduce their own carbon output, and by doing so show considered the most important area of work. leadership to the community. The business sector can Place Survey: clean streets were a priority for also have a major impact, but needs encouragement, improvement. Access to nature and public open spaces advice and information. were key strengths. The Council has recently prepared a Corporate Climate Priorities for action: Change Strategy which sets out actions to be taken • Improve the street scene for the future. As part of this, efforts to raise public • Increase recycling and home composting and awareness will be complemented by on-going actions to reduce residual waste address climate change. • Raise public awareness of the impact of climate change Protect open spaces and improve • Reduce the Borough’s carbon footprint accessibility • Protect open spaces and improve accessibility • Improve air and water quality Broxbourne has many beautiful areas of open space • Protect and improve the diversity of flora and fauna close by including the Lee Valley Regional Park and Broxbourne Woods. Access to these areas is not Why are these priorities? always easy, and many residents are not aware of the facilities available on their doorsteps. Green spaces Improve the street scene are important to provide a diverse range of recreational opportunities. In general the Borough is clean and tidy. Continued vigilance is necessary to maintain these standards. Fly- tipping, abandoning vehicles and fly-posting are crimes, which can be reduced by increased enforcement and reporting. Increase recycling and home composting and reduce residual waste

Reducing waste, re-using and recycling goods reduce carbon output by reducing the requirement for fuel and materials to manufacture new products. Home composting also reduces the fuel required to transport such waste. Broxbourne has the fourth lowest rate of recycling of all authorities in Hertfordshire. There is a countywide target to increase recycling to 45 per cent by The River Lee, which provides a range of recreational 2010 and 50 per cent by 2012. opportunities

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 29 Improve air and water quality Council have worked together to enhance local parks and the wildlife within them. Numerous enhancements to There are pockets of poor air quality in parts of the Cheshunt Park and Wormley Open Space focussed on Borough, especially near to the M25. Poor air quality biodiversity, landscape and public access. At Cheshunt can affect people’s health. The River Lee has poor Park, £150,000 of external funding was obtained for a water quality, and is affected by run-off from land in large capital works programme including: conversion of Broxbourne Borough. World War II pillboxes to bat hibernacula, restoration of a large Great Crested Newt breeding pond, enhanced Protect and improve the diversity of flora meadow management and the reintroduction of and fauna extensive grazing by rare breed cattle.

The Upper Lee Valley and Broxbourne woods are Small River Lee biodiversity action areas of regional importance. Biological diversity (biodiversity) is the variety of life. It is Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust is a partner in a important because the intricate network of ecosystems, project to conserve and make more accessible a section habitats and species comprising plant and animal of the Small River at Holdbrook, Waltham Cross. life provide the support systems that sustain human Initiated by Charles Walker, MP for Broxbourne and existence. This value extends from the benefits to facilitated by Groundwork, the project hopes to enhance be gained from contact with nature, to the economic riverine habitats, increase numbers of water voles and potential of wild species for new sources of food or provide new opportunities for local people to get close to medicines. their local nature. Supporting documents and plans: Recycling

Hertfordshire County Council: A 50-year vision for A pilot scheme to collect food waste and cardboard the wildlife and natural habitats of Hertfordshire – from the kerbside was introduced in March 2010. It is Biodiversity action plan for Hertfordshire, updated 2008 anticipated that the volume of recyclable waste will be increased significantly by this measure. Herts County Council (2008) Carbon Management Strategy and action plan 2008

Hertfordshire WasteAware Partnership (2007) Waste Management strategy Links to cross cutting themes:

Sustainability: reducing the Borough’s carbon footprint, protection of the environment and biodiversity Quality of life: will be improved by a cleaner local environment Links to other SCS themes:

Transport and Access: reducing car usage helps to reduce the carbon footprint of the Borough. Health and wellbeing: air and water quality may affect health Allotments at Holdbrook, which are a valuable open Housing: good insulation reduces carbon output space, as well as promoting healthy eating and physical activity. Current projects: Biodiversity in parks

The Countryside Management Service and Broxbourne

30 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Why are these priorities? Theme 8: Stronger communities Increase volunteering and civic Cohesion describes the ability of communities to live participation and grow in harmony together. It lies at the heart of safe, strong and prosperous place to live. The Local People’s sense of being part of a community is Government Association has defined a cohesive enhanced when they feel they have adequate \\BROXSTORE1\R_Drive\community plan\Community Plan 2009\Draft SCS\SCS 2010- 60opportunities to influence the course of events around community2021 draft 1.1.doc as one where: R:\community plan\Community Plan them.2009\Draft Citizen SCS\SCS 2010-engagement is at the heart of healthy Theme 8: Stronger communities 2021 draft 1.1.doc • there is a common vision and a sense of belonging and vibrant communities and local people should Cohesion describes the ability of communities to live and grow in harmony together. It lies at the heartto of the safe, local strong andcommunity; prosperous place to live. The Local Government Association hasbe encouraged to understand and take part in local • defined the a cohesive diversity community of aspeople’s one where: backgrounds and democratic processes and decision making. Results circumstances• there is a common vision are and appreciated; a sense of belonging to the local community; • the diversity of people's backgrounds and circumstances are appreciated; from the national Place Survey conducted in 2008 show • those• those from from different different backgrounds backgrounds have equal opportunities; have and equal that Broxbourne had the second lowest numbers of opportunities;• strong and positive relationships and have been developed between people from different backgrounds in the workplace, in schools and in neighbourhoods. respondents in Hertfordshire that said they had given • strong and positive relationships have been Residents’ views unpaid help at least once a month in the past year. developed between people from different Residents' Survey: Stronger communities as an area of work was of medium importance. When people take part in voluntary activity they benefit Race relationsbackgrounds were the second in theleast importantworkplace, issue facing in peopleschools in the andBorough in today. Place survey: Community activities were a low priority strength. Responses to cohesion both wider society by the activities they perform, and relatedneighbourhoods. questions are shown below in graphical form demonstrate that Broxbourne Borough residents are less likely than residents of other parts of Hertfordshire to feel that people treat themselves by increasing their own sense of worth, each other with respect, and less likely to feel that people from different backgrounds get on and by learning new skills. Volunteer numbers have Residents’well together. views increased significantly due to recession, maintaining NI 23: % who think there is a problem with people not treating each 45 other with respect and consideration in their local area this pool of talent and joining volunteers up with suitable 40 (Place Survey 2008) opportunities will continue to be a challenge. The 35 30 increase in Broxbourne and East Herts area has been the 25 highest in the County at 128 per cent from 2008 to 2009. 20 15 10 Develop initiatives to foster togetherness, 5 Broxbourne St Herts East Dacorum Watford Hatfield Hertsmere Stevenage 0 RiversThree Herts North Welwyn and an increased feeling of belonging

Hertfordshire England

In a strong, cohesive society people interact with each other on a regular basis, people know their neighbours Residents’ survey: stronger communities as an area of work was of medium importance. Race relations were and others who live in their communities. There is a the second least important issue facing people in the sense of belonging, and people feel they have adequate Borough today. opportunities to influence the course of events around Page 60 of 76 them. People are willing to take part in community Place Survey: community activities were a low priority events, and to take responsibility for their own strength. Responses to cohesion-related questions shown immediate areas. When asked in the residents survey, in graphical form demonstrate that Broxbourne Borough people responded that the development of residents’ residents are less likely than residents of other parts of associations and neighbourhood watch groups would Hertfordshire to feel that people treat each other with help people to get on well together. respect, and less likely to feel that people from different backgrounds get on well together. What do you think would help people in your area to get on well together? More information Neighbourhood Priorities for action: about voluntary watch scheme activities 21% • Increase volunteering and civic participation 11% • Develop initiatives to foster togetherness, and an increased feeling of belonging a residents' • Provide accessible information about existing association community halls and meeting spaces 26% • Utilise town centres as a focus of local life Family events in parks 22% • Encourage intergenerational activity to support town centre mutual learning and understanding between entertainments and events generations 20%

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 31 Provide accessible information about Jobs, Prosperity and Skills: voluntary activity can be community halls and meeting spaces the first step towards a paid job

The availability and awareness of public halls and Current projects meeting rooms is important to ensure that voluntary Celebration of Communities groups and social groups have places to meet and to hold social events. Two multi-cultural festivals were held; in September 2008 and July 2009 in Cedars Park. The events set out Utilise town centres as a focus of local to celebrate cultural diversity in Broxbourne and bring life together a broad spectrum of voluntary and statutory sector groups and providers. Over 100 volunteers Events and entertainments in town centres can act were involved and over 2,500 people attended the first to bring people together and increase a sense of event, a number exceeded in 2009. Information, food community and belonging. Residents (see previous and cultural stands were provided, plus a rolling stage chart) indicated that family events in parks and town performance embracing music, dance and fashion from centre entertainments and events would help people to around the world get on together. Encourage intergenerational activity to support mutual learning and understanding between generations

Lack of interaction between younger people and older people can lead to mutual suspicion and misunderstanding. Supporting documents and plans A Chinese dragon dance at the celebration of Hertfordshire Forward (2009) Community Cohesion communities event in 2009 Strategy for Hertfordshire (Draft) Voter registration drive Broxbourne and East Herts CVS (2007) The Broxbourne Compact : an agreement between local statutory Broxbourne Council has exceeded the standards set agencies, the voluntary and community sector and by the electoral commission for voter registration, and other local public bodies to improve their relationship for carries out a regular programme of civic awareness mutual advantage. education with local schools. Links to cross cutting themes: Volunteering

Community cohesion: major issue for this theme Volunteer Centre Broxbourne and East Herts provides Town centre vitality: use of town centres to bring a number of services aimed at raising the skills people together and educational attainment of residents, including Quality of life: cohesion has a major impact on quality employability training, coaching and mentoring and of life. advice about volunteering/work experience. The volunteer centre works with JobCentre Plus to engage Links to other SCS themes: with those people who are out of work. Due to the Community Safety: people are less likely to fear crime recession the number of volunteers has increase if they feel their local community is cohesive. dramatically, as residents wish to develop skills, and Housing: the range and mix of housing types and tenures have more time available. affects community spirit and pride in the local area.

32 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 needs to be as flexible as possible to meet individual Theme 9: Older People need. A coherent package of joined up services which avoid duplication from the user perspective should be All of the themes in this strategy affect older people as developed. they do all age groups. However there are some issues which are particularly relevant for older people, such Provide access to appropriate housing as support to enable independent living, access for the disabled and social activities for those who may be People’s need for housing may change as they get isolated. The most significant change in the Borough’s older. Supported housing may be needed, or a smaller population in the future is likely to be a significant property or one on a single floor. Older residents need to increase in those aged over 80. Estimates (see chart know what is available, and to have access to a range of below) indicate a 16 per cent increase between 2009 suitable housing options. and 2014. Increase take up of benefits B roxbourne Population by Age Groups

16,000 Many older people are not aware of all the benefits they 14,000 may be entitled to and do not claim them. Their income 12,000 levels and quality of life are adversely affected as a 10,000

2001 CeNSUS result. 8,000 2009 ONS 2014 ONS

6,000 Number of Residents Increase awareness of older people about 4,000 activities 2,000

0 0 to 9 10 to 19 20 to 29 30 to 39 40 to 49 50 to 59 60 to 69 70 to 79 80 plus Respondents to the residents survey indicated that a Age G roups lack of information about what is available is the major Residents’ views barrier to taking part for older people, closely followed ONS Annual Population survey and projections 2008 by the cost of activities and having no-one to go with. A Residents’ survey: majority of 65.5 per cent of people believed that there are not enough activities available for older people in the Older people as an area of work was of medium Borough. importance. Place survey: Lower levels of older people feel that they Develop social linkages for older people receive the support they need to live independently at home compared to the County average: Broxbourne – As demonstrated by responses to the residents’ survey 25 per cent, Hertfordshire – 27 per cent. shown in the chart below, having no-one to go with is a Priorities for action: major barrier for older people to taking part. • Increase support and information available to older people to enable them to live independently at home What are the barriers to taking part for older people? • Provide access to appropriate housing Lack of transport 18% • Increase take up of benefits Having no-one to • Increase information for older people about activities go with 21% • Develop social linkages for older people Lack of information about what is available Why are these priorities? 23% Increase support and information available to older people to enable them Cost of activities 22% to live independently at home Poor health 16% Whilst many older people will live independent lives, others will require some form of support. That support

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 33 Links to cross cutting themes: sessions and arts events. New projects in the last year have included Wii Are Active exercise sessions Community cohesion: developing social linkages for using a Nintendo Wii console, an intergenerational older people photo exhibition where older people had their photo Use of technology: to provide support and on call taken and were interviewed by sixth form students, assistance to people in their own homes. and a craft competition judged by the Borough’s Links to other SCS themes: Mayor. The Council works in partnership with other local organisations including Broxbourne Housing Health and Wellbeing: older people are more likely to Association to fund the events and the Evergreen have health problems booklet and also advertises events and activities for Housing: access to suitable housing over 50s held by voluntary and community agencies. Community Cohesion: lack of interaction between younger people and older people leads to mutual suspicion and misunderstanding Community Safety: older people are particularly vulnerable to certain types of crime Supporting documents and plans:

Hertfordshire Forward (2009) Health and Wellbeing Action Plan 2009-2011 Hertfordshire Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (2008) Current projects: Hertfordshire Community Agents Older people using Wii equipment to keep fit. Community Agents are part of a scheme to be funded Take Up Together by Hertfordshire County Council from April 2010. Their targets are anyone aged over 50 who could benefit from The ‘Take Up Together’ project is run in partnership information, advice or opportunities to improve their between Broxbourne Council, Hertfordshire County quality of life. This can include mainstream services Council’s Money Advice Unit and the Citizens Advice from leisure to libraries, home safety checks from the Bureau. The aim of the project is to support the police and fire service, starting a hobby, volunteering Borough’s older residents in accessing full entitlements or help getting back to work. Once the agents have to state benefits, for example Attendance Allowance, met people in their homes, they can make referrals Carers’ Allowance and Pension Credit. Through the to a wide variety of opportunities and services which project, residents over 60 years of age can be helped will keep older people healthy and active, give them to complete claim forms through to the final payment, to greater independence and more involvement in local ensure people have their correct entitlement. communities. Key to the success of the mission is the First Contact Checklist which allows older people, staff and volunteers to access information easily in one place on a range of services and opportunities. Evergreen events

The Council holds various events aimed at over 50s throughout the year, which are publicised in the booklet ‘Evergreen events for over 50s’, printed twice a year and available from Council facilities. Events include an annual Information Fair where older people can meet representatives of local organisations and collect information on services, sports and exercise taster Resident receiving advice on benefits

34 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 Glossary ANPR Automatic Number Plate Recognition CAA Comprehensive Area Assessment CCTV Closed Circuit Television CDRP Crime and Disorder Reduction Partnership CVS Council for Voluntary Service DVD Digital Versatile Disk EEDA East of England Development Agency ESOL English for Speakers of Other Languages GCSE General Certificate of Secondary Education IMD Index of Multiple Deprivation LAA Local Area Agreement LDF Local Development Framework LSP Local Strategic Partnership NACRO National Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders NEET Not in Education, Employment or Training NHS National Health Service NOMIS A web-based database of labour market statistics NVQ National Vocational Qualification PCSO Police Community Support Officer PCT Primary Care Trust RSL Registered Social Landlord SCS Sustainable Community Strategy WRVS Women’s Royal Voluntary Service

Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21 35 E-contact details for LSP partners Organisation e-contact details Aldwyck Housing Association Email: [email protected] Website: www.aldwyck.org.uk Broxbourne and East Herts Council for Voluntary Service Email: [email protected] Website: www.bvsda.org.uk Broxbourne Ethnic Minority Association Email: [email protected] Broxbourne Housing Association Email: [email protected] Website: www.broxbourneha.org.uk Citizens’ Advice Bureau Website: www.broxbournecab.org.uk Chamber of Commerce Email: [email protected] Website: www.hertschamber.com Hertford Regional College Email: [email protected] Website: www.hrc.ac.uk Hertfordshire Constabulary Website: www.herts.police.uk Hertfordshire County Council Email: [email protected] Website: www.hertsdirect.org.uk Hertfordshire Police Authority Email: [email protected] Website: www.hertspa.org Lee Valley Regional Park Authority Email: [email protected] Website: www.leevalleypark.org.uk Primary Care Trust Email: [email protected] Website: www.enherts-pct.nhs.uk

36 Broxbourne Sustainable Community Strategy 2010 - 21