HThe newspaaper of Hr art District CoNuncil wwew.harwt.gov.uk s Spring-Summer 2018 ‘Green Gym’ Business support Safety online Volunteers help us to Two-page special on Tips to help keep our country the help and advice parents make sure parks (and themselves) available to businesses their child avoids in tip-top shape – p5 in Hart – p10-11 risks online – p15

Don’t miss your chance to comment on the NNeeww ppaarrkk ooppeenn ttoo aallll Hart Local Plan Hart’s newest greenspace, Don’t miss the deadline! Please comment on the Hart Local Plan Bramshot Farm Country by 4pm on Monday 26 March. Park, is now open for Everyone should take the opportunity to comment. residents and visitors. The Plan sets out where new homes will be built. It also has policies to protect the Situated just off the A327, the environment, deliver new park boasts 91 acres of infrastructure and promote the greenspace with pathways economy. extending for 2.5 kilometres In Spring 2017 Hart District through fields and woodland. Council consulted on a Draft The new Country Park was Plan. This new version has been recognised by an official ribbon updated and we have taken a cutting ceremony held by the number of possible development Chairman of the Council, Cllr sites out of the Plan. Gerry Crisp, on Monday 13 However, we must have an eye November 2017. initially host two on long-term housing demand, Cllr Crisp said: “Our different walking routes. One of and the need for a new Countryside Team have worked these, 'Leaping Hare Loop', Rushmoor Borough Council secondary school, so we are hard to deliver a quality Country provides a 1.3 kilometre surfaced and Enterprise M3 LEP. The proposing an area around Murrell Park for the local community. pathway which can be used by LEP provided a £5.3 million loan Green/Winchfield where we This is very much a first step in wheelchairs and buggies around from its Local Growth Fund, to think it would be sensible to build a new village. This will its development and we hope a wide open meadow, with acquire the site and create the l You can read more about allow us to plan properly to meet that, over the years, this site will beautiful carved benches allowing Country Park. our countryside sites, our future needs. continue to develop and grow a place to rest and reflect. For more information about including our 'Spotlight on Cllr Graham Cockarill, Cabinet into a remarkable high-quality The new country park has this site, call Countryside on SANGS and the Thames Member for Planning, is greenspac e. ” been developed by Hart District 01252 623443 or email Basin Heaths' on page 4 of encouraging people to take part The exciting new site will Council in partnership with [email protected] Hart News. in the consultation and says: “Our Local Plan is now well advanced and this is the last chance for everyone to make their views known before the Plan is Celebrating six months of the Hart Lottery considered by an independent Inspecto r. ” In January we celebrated the six Council, said “Support for the supporters to choose from when to the community. I take part to Comments made on this month anniversary since the start lottery so far has been fantastic, buying their tickets, residents are support Daisy Chain Café, a café version of the Plan will be sent to of the Hart Lottery. with more than 450 supporters able to donate to a cause which that provides free support for an independent Planning The lottery was set up by the buying tickets to donate directly is personal to them and have a 1 people with dementia or Inspector who will consider the Council to support local charities to a cause of their choice. in 50 chance of winning a prize, memory loss. I think the Hart Plan and assess whether it is and good causes. Since launching “I would encourage all local including an incredible £25,000 Lottery is a fun and easy way to acceptable and meets in July 2017, it has raised more good causes to sign up and get jackpot and other cash prizes. support your local charit y.” Government guidelines. We For more information than £10,000 for local causes and involved in the lottery as it is a Mrs W, winner of £2,000, the expect this to be later this year. is on target to raise over great way to raise funds for highest lottery prize to date, said: about joining the lottery as £25,000 in its first year. projects which may have been “I am so pleased to have won a good cause, or if you To see the Plan, supporting Speaking about this milestone hard to achieve without the this fantastic prize on the Hart would like to buy tickets for documents and how to respond, visit for the lottery, Cllr David extra donations.” Lotter y, whilst supporting a the next draw visit www.hart.gov.uk Neighbou r, Leader of the With over 45 local causes for worthwhile cause that gives back www.hartlottery.co.uk

01252 622122 e [email protected] www.hart.gov.uk /HartDistrictCouncil @HartCouncil /Hart-District-Council /hartcouncil Hart District Council 2 News www.hart.gov.uk Hart takes back the crown as the best place to live in the UK Hart District Council has wide range of measures, including reclaimed the crown as the l Residents feel fit and well with UK’s best place to live for the more than nine in 10 (97%) fifth time in six years, reporting good or fairly good according to the 2017 Halifax health. Quality of Life Survey, l It has the longest average female published in December. life expectancy in the UK of 86.7 Commenting on the survey, Cllr years, and the third longest for David Neighbou r, Leader of Hart men (82.5). District Council, said: “It’s great to l Hart has one of the highest see that the Halifax recognises the employment rates with eight in attributes which residents of Hart 10 (84%) of 16-64 year-olds in value so greatly and contribute to work and weekly average the quality of life we enjoy. earnings of £844. “This year we’re back at the top l The latest ONS figures indicate spot and it’s due to our continued adults living in Hart are among investment in our residents’ the most happ y, satisfied and wellbein g. content in the UK. “Our new £23 million pound l Residents enjoy one of the state-of-the-art Leisure Centre and lowest crime rates in the UK. new Bramshot Country Park are l They also have a relatively good testament of this. Elvetham Heath climate, with more sunshine “Through our new Corporate (32.5 hours per week against Plan we will continue to deliver our the average of 29.7 hours). key activities and priorities to encourage a thriving local economy, and effective Council. with reduced government fundin g; What makes Hart such a To read the full press release maintain a clean, green and safe “We face some challenges over but through all of this, we will good place to live? from the Halifax, please visit environment, keep our the next few years with increasing remain committed to deliver The Halifax Quality of Life Survey www.hart.gov.uk/the-council/ communities healthy, and make pressure to provide more services that continue to keep Hart has placed Hart in the top spot news/hart-takes-back-crown- sure we become a more efficient affordable homes and infrastructure as the best place to live.” based on its high performance in a uks-best-place-live www.hart.gov.uk News 3 Send us your images so we can share the best of Hart Small rise in Council Have you captured something beautiful in your local area? If you're looking for a great way to showcase your photos, Hart can help. We are looking for keen photographers to send us their pictures, so we can share the best of Hart. Tax will offset cut in Email your favourite images to [email protected] and you could see your photo featured on our website. You can also tag us in your photos on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram or use the hashtag - #PictureHart Government grant The Council has set its budget for 2018/2019 and it was agreed that there will be a small council tax increase for the District Council element of that charge. In light of the complete phasing out of Government support grant, this increase is necessary if we are to protect the services that are important to our residents. Although the Council collects all of the council tax, it actually retains as little as 10%, with some going to the local parish councils but the greatest share going to Hampshire County Council, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Hampshire, and Hampshire Fire and Rescue. Fleet Pond at sunrise From April 2018 a householder with an average band D property is likely to see the Hart District Council element of their annual bill increase by just over 9 pence a week. The Government is currently proposing a negative grant in 2019/20. This would further reduce our funding by over £500,000. We have made a number of efficiency savings through renegotiating existing contracts, but over the next few years we will look for more opportunities to make savings and efficiencies while working hard to deliver better services at a lower cost.

Peaceful pastures Odiham Castle l See page 18 for information on all the services we provide in a typical week. Our bank details have changed Do you have a bank transfer or standing order payable to Hart District Council? Our bank details have changed. We have a new sort code: 20-17-07 If you pay your Council Tax, Business Rates or any A new vision for Hart other payment to Hart District Council, by bank transfer The new Hart District Council Council to do things differently. We affordable housing in new or standing orde r, please update your payments now or Corporate Plan sets out the will ensure that the decisions taken developments, and initiatives to ensure they may not reach us. Council's vision and priorities for aim to achieve the best outcome for that we can achieve a greater level of Direct Debit customers do not need to make any 2017-2022, together with those who live, visit and work in Hart. financial self-sustainability. changes as these will be done automatically. the key actions that will be The Council has identified a range of The Council will continue to work in There is no change to our bank account number. The taken to achieve them over the key activities, set out under four partnership with other public and new bank details and information will be included in next five years. priorities: private sector partners to make sure your Council Tax or Business Rates bill. It provides a focus for future l A Thriving Local Economy that it can influence change and deliver You can also pay online at activities and services and will inform l A Clean, Green and Safe local priorities. www.hart.gov.uk/pay-it, by direct debit, or over decision making and the allocation of Environment Most importantly, the Council will the phone by calling 01252 622122. resources across the Council. l Healthy Communities and People continue to listen and engage with With a decreasing pot of l Becoming a More Efficient and residents and businesses. Government funding and greater Effective Council. The Corporate Plan was discussed pressure on our services, the Plan is an Projects the Council intends to and agreed at the Full Council meeting Stay better informed ambitious programme of activity for a deliver include finalising a new waste on 25 January 2018. relatively small Council. To make contract, supporting local communities To read the full corporate plan, savings, whilst continuing to provide to have more say in the future of their visit on local planning high quality services, will require the area, promoting the delivery of www.hart.gov.uk/about-council applications Hart District Council has launched an improved system where residents can sign up online to receive notifications about planning applications in their area. Residents can register their details to receive email Council shortlisted for national award notifications of any planning applications in their area. The Hart District Council has been delivery. The winners will be system is also linked to the current public access portal, shortlisted in the national Local announced in a ceremony at so people can comment online and check the progress of Government Chronicle (LGC) London’s Grosvenor House on 21 applications. The move to the online system is part of a Awards for the Best Service March. larger review to improve efficiency throughout the Delivery Model category. LGC editor Nick Golding said: department. The entry, titled ‘The new “To be shortlisted for an LGC You can register, and find a helpful step by step guide, at collaborative Council’, focuses partnerships, providing a mass of Award shows a council service is https://publicaccess.hart.gov.uk/ around the key themes of building expertise, resilience and support to among the country’s most online-applications blocks for success, including, being our residents. By working innovative, and doing the most to The Council has also introduced a new site notice that more entrepreneurial, innovating collaboratively, the Council has support the needs of local residents is bright yellow and placed in a prominent location at an and transforming how services are protected and enhanced services as councils face continuing budget application site to ensure the public are made aware of provided through collaboration and, while making savings of £2.5 million cuts. We should salute the officers new planning applications as and when they arise. most importantly, planning for long- in Revenue Support grant since and councillors doing the most to For more general information about planning term financial resilience. 2014. ensure our vital public services applications, please visit The Council has a range of The awards are the biggest and thrive in the era of austerity.” www.hart.gov.uk/planning-applications outsourced and shared services most prestigious ceremony for the For more information about Online portal hint: You may have previously registered with neighbouring authorities. Since local government sector. They the awards and to view the full to this system if you have previously submitted an online 2017, 70% of the Council’s budgets recognise the best of local list of finalists, visit comment. If you can't remember your login details, try are spent using collaboration and government innovation and service https://awards.lgcplus.com using the forgotten password link on the log in page. 4 Countryside www.hart.gov.uk

Countryside Events 2018 Each year, the Countryside team puts on a range of exciting events across the district. In 2018, we offer the chance to learn more about our fantastic heathland habitats, discover Spotlight on SANGs creepy crawlies at Fleet Pond, search for swooping bats at Bramshot Farm and much more!

Bird Ringing Demo – 17 March Hazeley Heath, 7.30am - 11.30am Learn all about bird ringing and why it is so important for conservation. The demo will be based on the main path running parallel to the B3011/Bracknell Lane, not far from the lay-b y. Drop in any time between 7.30am and 11.30am. Free event. Suitable for all ages. Build a Bug Home – 4 April Elvetham Heath, 10am - 12noon Do you love creepy crawlies? Head into the woods to build a home for our bugs, before making one to take home for your own garden. Suitable for ages 6+. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Bushcraft – 14 April & 21 July Fleet Pond, 10am – 12noon Could you make a fire without matches, find north without a compass, or purify water with just a plastic bottle? Let’s get hands on and learn some wilderness skills! Suitable for ages 8+. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Bird Song of Bramshot – 12 May A majestic oak tree standing at Bramshot Farm Country Park Bramshot Farm, 6am – 8am Learn how to identify common birdsong on this early Across Hampshire, Berkshire Bramshot Farm Country Park and woodland areas, all adding up to morning walk at Bramshot Farm with ranger Dave. and Surrey there are a number Bramshot Farm Country Park is Hart 84 acres of outdoor leisure space. Afterwards you should be able to identify four common of charming open spaces that Countrysides' newest greenspace A pond dipping platform and picnic species for yourself. Suitable for beginners. have either been specially designated as a SANG. area also provide a great place for Wildlife Day – 3 June created or enhanced to provide The site boasts 91 acres of families to relax. Fleet Pond, 11am – 3pm local people with great greenspace for use by the residents The park is based behind the new Join us for this very popular free event at Fleet Pond. Many of additional outdoor sites to and visitors of Hart, with pathways Hart Leisure Centre, and is easily the stalls are interactive, offering educational activities and explore and enjoy. extending for 2.5 kilometres through accessible along Hitches Lane in Fleet. hands-on learning, including bug hunting and bushcraft. Car These sites are also referred to as fields and woodland, making it perfect This is far from an exhaustive list of parking is very limited at Fleet Pond, so we are asking local Suitable Alternative Natural for exercising four-legged friends. SANG sites within Hart, with others visitors to leave their car at home and take a leisurely stroll Greenspaces (SANGs), and offer Bramshot Farm Country Park has a including QEII Fields (Hartley to the site. The event will be signposted from all access points pleasant alternatives to visiting the car park situated along Bramshot Wintney) and Crookham Park around the reserve. Free event. Suitable for all ages. Thames Basin Heaths Special Lane in Fleet, which can be found (Church Crookham). History Walk – 22 June Protection Area (SPA); a sensitive along the A327 opposite Travelodge Hazeley Heath, 9.30am - 11.30am habitat spanning the same three Fleet, close to Junction 4a of the M3. For further information Join ranger Nick as he takes you back in time to learn about counties, protected due to its rare regarding SANG sites and the the rich military history of Hazeley Heath. wildlife; specifically some of Britain’s Edenbrook Country Park Thames Basin Heaths Not suitable for children. rarest breeding birds. Edenbrook Country Park is a SANG partnership, visit Heathland Habitat Ramble - 30 July Within Hart, the Thames Basin site owned and managed by Berkeley www.tbhpartnership.org.uk. Hazeley Heath, 10am – 12noon Heaths Special Protection Area Homes group. Alternatively, call the Did you know that heathland habitat is rarer than rainforest? includes Hazeley Heath, Bramshill, The site is distinguished by its countryside rangers on Come for a jaunt across Hazeley to learn more about this Castle Bottom to Yateley and Hawley variety of habitats, including ponds 01252 623443 or email special and fascinating habitat and the species that live there. Commons, parts of Bourley and Long and wetlands, sprawling meadows [email protected] Pond Dip and Bug Hunt – 3 August and 20 August Valley, and Eelmoor Marsh. These sites Fleet Pond, 10am – 12noon are home to rare woodlark, nightjar Creepy crawlies galore! Step into a miniature world, using and Dartford warbler; birds which all nets to sweep through the water and pots to gather up nest on (or close to) the ground. insects on the land. You may want to bring your magnifying The Thames Basin Heaths glass. Suitable for all ages. All children must be accompanied Partnership staff warden these by an adult. protected sites, giving out friendly Butterfly Walk – 24 August information to visitors to raise Bramshot Farm, 2pm – 4pm awareness of the fragile habitat and Spring and summer are the best times of year to spot encourage responsible behaviour, beautiful, fluttering butterflies. Take a walk across the including keeping people and dogs to meadows of Bramshot Farm, looking for and learning about paths during the nesting season from these colourful winged insects. March to September. Bat Walk – 24 and 31 August & 1 and 14 September The staff also promote the Bramshot Farm (24 Augus t, 8pm – 9.30pm), Fleet Pond (31 alternative open spaces that SANGs August and 1 Septembe r, 7.30pm – 9pm) and Odiham and provide, which offer the public more Broad Oak Common (14 Septembe r, 7.30pm – 9pm) choice and flexibility should they Using bat detectors, walk at night on one of our nature want to visit less sensitive sites where reserves to seek out some brilliant bats. Find out all about dogs can walk off-lead all year round. One of many ponds at Edenbrook Country Park these fascinating flying mammals and other nocturnal creatures that only become active after dusk. Suitable for ages 8+. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Halloween Walk – 29 October Rare black poplar planted at Bramshot Fleet Pond, 4.30pm – 6pm The tree team at Hart have been It's also notable for its value to trees often grow in isolation, and Join us for some spooky Halloween-themed activities at the planting trees at Bramshot Farm, but wildlife. The tree is the designated only 8,000 true wild poplars are iconic Fleet Pond. Suitable for ages 4+. All children must be some are very significant indeed. food plant for four different moth thought to be left in the UK, with a accompanied by an adult. Three specimens of Britain's most species, including the poplar hawk mere 400 of these being female. Activities should be booked at least two weeks in endangered native tree, the black and wood leopard, as well as often Hart's team have worked hard to advance, unless otherwise stated. Prices range poplar (populus nigra), have been providing a safe haven for roosting ensure the poplar saplings chosen between £4 and £5. To book a place on any of our planted at the new country park. bats and nesting owls. are of wild stock. Keep an eye out activities or for further details, visit Growing to 30 metres tall and However, the species is in decline for these beautiful trees on your www.hart.gov.uk/guided-walks, email with dark brown bark that can take due to a lack of suitable wetland next walk around Old Oak Way – [email protected] or phone 01252 774468. on a black appearance, the black habitat and the extensive planting of they may be small now, but one day Times and meeting places confirmed on booking. poplar is a striking tree. hybrids, diluting the wild stock. The they will be mighty. www.hart.gov.uk Countryside 5

Fowl-feeding fouls! Save our swifts Taking the old bread down to The value of volunteering the pond and feeding the – part two! greedy swans, geese, ducks and 2017 was a fantastic year for all of our hardworking We received an excellent seagulls is something that has response to our previous article been done for generations. volunteers. Hart Countryside requesting information about But it is proven that throwing Services has five sites where the distribution of swifts in bread to these hungry chaps is volunteers contribute to Hart. not a good thing, as although it habitat management fills them up, bread has very throughout the year. We have combined this new little nutritional value for them Fleet Pond SSSI is managed by information with that of existing and is actually doing more harm Hart with a great deal of support records to establish which parts than good. from the Fleet Pond Societ y. Once of the district appear to be You can give them a a month on each second Sunday swift ‘hot spots’. wholesome, nutritious meal by there is a volunteer group open to As might be expected with a feeding our birds pelleted duck the public, and work ranges from bird so closely associated with food, available from most good scrub management to reedbed buildings, the distribution of pet stores. It’s just as much fun, managemen t. probable nest sites are centred and you will be safe in the The volunteer sessions around the district’s larger knowledge that you are feeding amounted to a grand total of 820 The Fleet Pond Society hard at work towns and villages, such as them well. hours (valued at £10k) of work for Chris from the on the Dry Heath Yatele y, Eversle y, Hook, Fleet, Help us to keep our wildfowl the nature reserve in 2017. That's Hartley Wintney Volunteers at the Church Crookham and healthy by feeding them not to mention the 120 attendees annual pillbox maintenance day provides moderate exercise and Odiham. delicious, nutritious duck food! from corporate groups at the prevents social isolation, lowers This does highlight areas nature reserve, who come to Hart War Winching Ramp on Hazeley anxiety by 26% and people are where putting up swift boxes for their citizenship and social Heath. The group amassed over 50% less likely to suffer from a could have the most impact. responsibility volunteering. 400 hours (value £7k) and hosted heart attack or stroke than inactive Visit the Swift Conservation The second biggest volunteer several corporate groups working people. Participants said the ‘Green Organisation website at group in the district are the to a value of £1.5k. Gym’ benefited their mental health, www.swift-conservation.org Hartley Wintney Conservation In total the value of volunteering boosting self-esteem and for recommendations when volunteers, meeting on the second in 2017 for Hart Countryside was confidence. choosing a location for a box. Tuesday of every month. The a phenomenal £24k, ensuring that Hart would like to say a big Hart District Council would group covers Phoenix Green, important habitat management thank you to all our fantastic like to give swifts a helping hand Central Commons and Hazeley could be carried out by the volunteers who have helped us to by putting up a number of nest Heath. community. look after our greenspaces in 2017. boxes. If you are interested in For further information on Days vary from historic structure In addition to the practical having a nest box - particularly restoration and maintenance to benefits to our sites, volunteering how to get involved, call the countryside rangers on if you live in one of our heathland management, with a offers attendees a fantastic ‘Green ‘hotspots’ - please email particular success for 2017 being Gym’. Research has found that 01252 623443 or email [email protected] the clearance of the Second World attending a volunteer group [email protected] 6 Housing & Planning www.hart.gov.uk Communities are helped to tackle Invest in your property with housing projects Hampshire councils, including East Hampshire, Hart and Winchester, have been allocated a share of new a home improvement loan Government funding to boost the Home-owners in the district are able In addition to Home Improvement Lending, supply of community-led housing to access a subsidised secured Home Parity Trust has recently launched a suite of schemes in England. Improvement Loan due to a mortgage products designed to help existing These three authorities (along with partnership between Hart Council and homeowners and people looking to purchase Havant) have pooled resources to fund Parity Trust. a property. a new Community Housing Officer The loan, administered by not-for-profit financial review. This review provides the One of the new mortgages introduced is post. Catherine Kirkham has been organisation Parity Trust, is offered at a highly advisor with the information to recommend the Mortgage Extension Product (MEP), appointed and she will provide competitive rate of 5.49% (5.63 % APR) and the most appropriate loan product. which helps those people who have an specialist guidance and support to is part-funded by the Council to enable local One of the cases we are currently assisting interest-only mortgage coming to the end of community groups interested in home-owners to invest in their property. includes a family who have been awarded a term with no means to repay the capital. delivering community-led housing The loan can be used for a range of home Disabled Facilities Grant for essential If your property is in need of repairs and schemes in their local area. This improvements and adaptations, including adaptations to their property. However, the you do not have savings available, contact the support is available for urban and rural replacement windows and doors, roofing, grant will not cover the full cost of works so Council’s Private Sector Housing Team on areas. electrical works or the installation of a new Parity Trust (further to a financial review) 01252 774420 who will be happy to talk to Communities need to grow and boiler. As a responsible lender, Parity Trust have arranged to bridge the funding shortfall. you about assistance that may be available. expand to remain sustainable and provides a bespoke service tailored around On another case, we are helping someone community-led housing schemes are the needs of the client. A dedicated loans who only needs a small amount towards the Further information about the Home built by the community to meet the advisor guides clients through the application cost of roof repairs. Some of the people we Improvement Loan can be found at needs of the communit y. It takes an process in the comfort of their own home help do not have access to suitable www.paritytrust.org.uk or by calling active role throughout the and conducts a full and comprehensive mainstream finance. 023 9237 5921. development process and can sometimes also be involved in the management and maintenance of the new homes. There are different models of community housing including New affordable homesl available Community Land Trusts (CLTs) and A total of 61 affordable rented homes and Brickyard Plantation, Hook – 9 properties, co-operatives. 28 shared ownership homes were built in providing 1 and 2 bedroom units for rent, If you would like to find out more Hart between April and December 2017. including a 2 bedroom apartment suitable about community led housing, By the end of March 2018 Hart expects to for wheelchair users. The landlord is have a total of 151 affordable units, including Thames Valley Housing Association. please contact Catherine on l 01962 857387 or email catherine. 88 rented and 63 shared ownership homes. Landata House, Hook – 16 units providing [email protected] Hart continues to have a busy 1 and 2 bedroom flats for shared development programme throughout ownership, with Thames Valley Housing Association. l Jean Orr Court, Church Crookham – 12 properties providing 1 and 2 bedroom apartments for rent with VIVID. 2018/2019. There are an estimated 104 Please note that all the above information is affordable homes due to be delivered by the subject to change and some of these may be end of March 2019. Approximately 60 of let and sold prior to publication of this article . these are rented homes and 44 shared Each site may have a different housing ownership homes (part buy and part rent). association developing and managing the The sites providing affordable housing are: affordable homes and rents vary so please l Queenscare (QEB, Church Crookham) – check the Choice Based Lettings Adverts 32 properties providing a range of 1,2, 3 every week. With approximately 1,300 and 4 bedroom homes to rent and 2 and households on Hart's housing register 3 bedroom homes for shared ownership, looking for affordable homes to rent and with Aster Homes and Sovereign Housing some 831 households on the Help to Buy Association. list looking for a shared ownership home , l Reading Road, Hook – 28 properties these new properties will help many local providing 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes for people return to Hart or stay in the area rent and 2 and 3 bedroom houses for where they were brought up or are working. shared ownership, with Homegroup. If you have any queries about new l Hatchwood Cottage, Odiham - 7 developments please look at the properties providing a range of 2 and 3 housing pages of the Council website, bedroom homes to rent and 1 and 2 email [email protected] or bedroom homes for shared ownership, telephone the Strategy and with VIVID. Development Team on 01252 774420. Find out more at our Affordable Home Ownership events Hart Council and Rushmoor Borough mortgages available, how much they would Council have been holding joint Affordable be expected to pay each month and the Home Ownership events since 2015, with size of the deposit they would need. very positive feedback from those attending. The Councils plan to continue holding These are drop-in events which allow these events to give people the opportunity people the opportunity to speak to staff to find out about affordable home from the councils’ housing teams, Help to ownership products at a local venue. Future Buy South advisors and housing providers events will be advertised on each council’s to find out more about affordable homes website, through Twitter and Facebook. available for sale in both Hart and To find out what affordable housing Rushmoor. options are available in the Hart Visitors are able to speak to independent district visit the Help to Buy website financial advisors to talk about the range of at www.helptobuysouth.co.uk www.hart.gov.uk Housing & Planning 7 New legislation to help prevent homelessness Hart’s Housing Service priority need or have made received £385,000 early last themselves intentionally year from the Department of homeless in the initial stages of Spotlight on rough sleeping Communities and Local their application. There may be times when people find themselves rough sleeping on the l Government (DCLG) under Local authorities will have more streets and this can often be for complex reasons. the Homelessness Prevention options to end their legal duty Fortunately this does not happen very often in Hart due to our Trailblazer programme. to a person they are working comprehensive approach to preventing homelessness, but when a rough The aim of this funding was to with, which includes being sleeper is identified, the Housing Service has robust procedures to support fundamental changes to satisfied that a person has a respond effectively and quickly. the Housing Options approach to suitable offer of accommodation What do services do to help rough sleepers? homelessness and the way officers for at least six months. This will Hart has a No Second Night Out procedure throughout the year that work. As a result of this, the longer-term sustainable solution. include private rented housing. ensures there is a thorough and rapid response to anyone who may find Housing Options Service has a Alongside this new way of The housing service has already themselves with no accommodation for a night. The aim is to minimise new name and a new approach to working, the Housing Service has been working with local partners, their rough sleeping to one night only. working with people that supports been making further preparations including other statutory services, The Housing Service has strong partnerships with a range of services them in a more holistic way. for new legislation that comes into landlords and the voluntary sector who may encounter a person sleeping rough. These partners, including Housing Options Officers are force on 3 April. The Homelessness to prepare for the legislative refuse workers, leisure service colleagues and police, refer into the Housing now called Engagement and Reduction Act will change some of changes. Service so that our Engagement and Support Officers can contact the Support Officers. The Trailblazer the existing statutory housing In Hart the housing service has person and bring them in off the streets. The Housing Service will offer funding was also used to employ a duties for residents. This includes: always offered advice and support accommodation and work with the individual to resolve their housing crisis. team of Health and Wellbeing l Local authorities will have a to everyone who has accessed the What can I do if I think I have seen a rough sleeper? Officers who will work across legal duty to work with service, but under the new Residents can support the Council by informing the Housing Service Hart and Rushmoor until March residents to prevent them legislation and new approach, straight away if they suspect they have spotted a rough sleeper. If 2019 to support vulnerable becoming homeless at an residents will receive earlier and someone is new to the streets and willing to accept help, they will be members of the community and earlier opportunity than at more comprehensive support to accommodated by Hart District Council. provide all-round support. present. This can be up to 56 ensure that the risk of The Council recognises that there are many caring residents who would Both the Engagement and days before they may lose their homelessness is reduced and want to help a rough sleeper and the most effective way to do this is to Support Officers and the Health accommodation. homelessness is prevented report their whereabouts using the details below. Giving money, food, and Wellbeing Officers work with l Other statutory services, such wherever possible. clothing or bedding directly to a rough sleeper can often have a people to try to address a range as health and police, will have a For further information and counterproductive effect as it may stop them from linking in with agencies of issues. legal duty to refer people to the advice please contact the that can offer them long-term support. This approach enables people to housing service if they believe Engagement and Support How do I report a rough sleeper? build on their strengths and make they will become homeless Officers in the Housing During office hours you can contact our Engagement and Support Team on 01252 774420 [email protected] the most of opportunities so they within 56 days. Service, either by visiting us or email . We run an out-of-office l can make positive changes that will Local authorities will be at the Civic Offices, calling service with an on-call duty officer who can be contacted on 0845 677 0678 impact on their ability to access required to work with people 01252 774420, or emailing . You can also report a rough sleeper through the www.streetlink.org.uk 0300 500 0914 accommodation and create a regardless of whether they have [email protected] StreetLink website or call . 8 Leisure www.hart.gov.uk Find out what’s on It’s been a busy few months for Everyone Visits made to leisure centre Active’s centres in Fleet and Frogmore, and we’re not slowing down in 2018. This year, Frogmore Leisure Centre is near the half-million mark working with children’s activity specialist, Fit for Sport, to re-launch its holiday Activity The new Hart Leisure Centre has Camps. seen more than 451,000 visits since Activity Camps are a great way for your opening its doors back in April 2017 child to keep active, have fun and make new – that’s more than three times as friends during the school holidays. many as were made to the old They offer the opportunity for children to centre during its last year of try a whole host of activities and sports to operation. keep them entertained all day. It has been fantastic to see the difference The camps are run by Fit For Sport’s DBS- the leisure centre has made to the health checked leaders, who have been specially and wellbeing of local people. The past nine trained to deliver fun and inclusive sessions months have been extremely successful but for children of all abilities. not without their challenges, and we would Hart Leisure Centre is also excited to be like to thank everyone who has been relaunching its climbing activities and offering patient with us while we settle into our more people the chance to give the sport a new home. try. Our fully-trained instructors will be taking Everyone Active were delighted to host climbers to new heights up the 27-foot wall Hart Leisure Centre’s very first gymnastics through a series of one-to-one lessons and Christmas show back in Decembe r. More group sessions. than 80 gymnasts from the scheme took to For more information, email the floor to perform in front of a packed- [email protected] out audience. Hart Leisure Centre’s very first gymnastics Christmas show with more than 80 gymnasts Both centres have recently launched Alex 250 tickets were sold for the event, and Danson Hockey Academy camps for children spectators were amazed by the impressive aged between seven and 13. Using a larger, skills on show. lighter and safer ball, the camps provide a December also saw Hart Leisure Centre great introduction to the game in a fun and shortlisted for the Newcomer of the Year energetic environment. accolade at the prestigious National Fitness The programme has been designed by the Awards. Although they missed out on the Olympic champion herself, and incorporates top spot, the centre was praised for the a mix of skill sessions and modified matches work it has done to engage more local that inspire a new generation of potential people in physical activity. Olympians to pick up a hockey stick. For more information on activities visit www.everyoneactive.com

Zumba has also proved popular with local residents

Everyone Active raises £2,000 for charity Both the Hart and Frogmore leisure charity, JDRF, and MIND, which helps centres have held successful charity events support those facing mental health that have collectively raised more than problems. £2,000 for two national charities. The success of the leisure centres is a Activities included a 12-hour sponsored result of Hart District Council’s positive bike ride, colleague leg waxing, pyjama partnership with Everyone Active, which parties and charity Zumba sessions. began in February 2016. Together, the two Both customers and colleagues got organisations are helping people in Hart to involved in the fundraising, and the money improve their health and wellbeing by will now be donated to type 1 diabetes getting more people active.

Community connections Everyone Active puts itself at the and Hart District Council have teamed heart of the local community. As well up to introduce dementia-friendly gym as getting people physically active, it sessions every Friday. supports a number of local events and Colleagues at Hart will be attending community groups who make a training courses to ensure they are positive difference to the lives of better able to assist customers with people in the district. dementia and make the centre an Hart Leisure Centre is working even more inclusive environment. closely with Autism Friendly Fleet to After sponsoring the very successful ensure our facilities are accessible to Fleet Carnival for the past two years, all. We are planning on hosting Everyone Active has recently specialist swim and gymnastics announced its support for the 2018 sessions that will help young people event. We are excited to be working with autism to find an activity they with other local partners to make this enjoy. year’s carnival the biggest and most In addition to this, Everyone Active enjoyable yet.

10 Business www.hart.gov.uk Federation of Small Networking groups in Businesses is here with and around Hart advice and support There are a number of business As experts in business, FSB offers its networking groups in the area with the members a wide range of vital aim of helping businesses make business services, including advice, connections. Below is a list of networking financial expertise, support and a events happening locally. powerful voice in government. Their All these events can be found on the mission is to help smaller businesses Business Events Calendar on the Hart achieve their particular ambitions. District Council website Established more than 40 years ago, www.hart.gov.uk/business-events FSB is a non-profit making and non- party-political organisation that’s led by Hampshire Chamber of members, for its members. Commerce – regular meetings across Members have an exclusive package Hampshire. Local events include: of great value business services, The winners of Small Business and International Business of the Year with their trophies Bid Writing Breakfast Workshop - at including advice, financial products and Highfield Park on Wednesday 18 April support. These cover a wide range of from 7.30am - 9.30am. Cost £15 for benefits such as tax, legal and HR members and £25 for non-members. advice and protection, local face-to- North Hampshire Joint Networking – face and virtual networking, business Business people awarded at Lismoyne Hotel on Wednesday 23 May banking, workplace pensions, insurance 2018 from 5pm - 7.30pm. Cost £20 for and much more. members and £25 for non-members. FSB is also the UK’s leading business at glittering ceremony FSB campaigner, delivering change which – regular meetings across At a glittering awards celebration Winners and finalists came from all parts of Hampshire. supports smaller businesses to grow attended by over 500 business people North Hampshire with the coveted ‘Business of Fleet4Business – meets every Thursday and succeed. It represents members’ from across the region, winners were the Year’ Award going to S B Joinery from morning at 7.15am - 9am at The North interests through lobbying every level announced for the Inspire 17 Awards, Stockbridge. Hants Golf Club, Fleet. Membership costs of government within every part of honouring the very best of North The evening was compered by Felicity £40 per month and non-members pay the UK, and is supported both locally Hampshire’s business success in 2017. Edwards, Managing Director of Destination £12 per meeting. and through its national team in With a record-breaking number of award Basingstoke with ex-England rugby player and TV Westminster. entries and winners from right across the North pundit David ‘Flats’ Flatman, who is a supporter The Athena Network Group – A In Hampshire, there are more than Hampshire region – from Andover to Aldershot of Heartburn Cancer UK, the charity partner for range of locations, including Basingstoke, 5,600 members and FSB and everywhere in between – the INSPIRE the evening. Flee t, Farnham and Camberley. representatives work with local business awards programme culminated in a Membership costs £20 per month and members to further FSB influence at a spectacular evening held in the Hampshire Arena Small Business of the Year non-members pay £28 per meeting. local and regional level. Winner: iWaste Hampshire Business Gold For more information, visit at Hampshire Court Hotel. – meets www.fsb.org.uk It was organised by Destination Basingstoke Sponsored by Breeze FM on the third Thursday of each month, 9am on behalf of sponsoring partners. The judges believed that iWaste was making a - 11am at The Frog & Wicket. very good business out of a load of rubbish! Membership costs £10 per month and Their waste management business has non-members pay £15 per meeting. comprehensive growth plans and investment in a 4Networking – a range of locations, young staff that includes apprentices. including Farnham, Camberley, Basingstoke, and Guildford. A fee of £15. International Business of the Year Fleet Business Group Winner: Driven International – meets on the second Thursday of the month, 7.30am - Sponsored by Fluor 9am at The Oat Sheaf in Fleet. Fee £12. Driven International is a small and relatively new business which is focused on international Yateley Networking – meets on the consultancy, specialising in designing motorsport first Wednesday of every month at 7am - events all over the world. 9am at Mill Lane, Yateley. Fee £5. Coffee and Connect - meets on the first Wednesday of every month at 10am Growth Hub connects you - 12noon at Victoria Hall, Hartley Wintney. to free business support Fee £5. Business Biscotti Aimed at businesses looking to succeed in – a range of the M3 corridor, the Enterprise M3 Growth locations, including Fleet, Alton & Hook, Hub is an expert advice and resource Farnborough, Basingstoke, and Guildford. network which helps businesses through a Fee £5. personal, tailored service focused on growth. Ladies Who Latte – a range of All businesses at any stage of their locations, including Farnham and development can access and benefit from the Basingstoke. Free to attend. Enterprise M3 Growth Hub’s services. They Farnborough Networking – meets have created a personal service connecting on the third Thursday of every month, businesses with experts to help their growth 9am - 11am at Wings Cottage Restaurant, plans. This includes: Farnborough. Fee £5. l Dedicated Growth Champions who focus Basingstoke Business Club – meets on supporting a business’s growth plans l on the first and third Friday of each Bespoke growth plans, based on a firm’s month, 7.15am - 9am at Basingstoke unique requirements and circumstances l College of Technology, Basingstoke. A trusted expert services network; with a Membership costs £25 per month and proven track record non-members pay £15 per visit. l A wide variety of expertise including: OMNI Local Business Networking developing new markets; finding finance; – innovation; product development and a range of locations, including developing staff Farnborough, Camberley, and Basingstoke. l Working with businesses every step of the Fee £12. way to track progress. If you attend or run a business Get in touch on 01483 685226 or networking group that is not listed [email protected] above, or is not on the Business to see how Enterprise M3 can help Events Calendar on our website, drive your business forward. please let us know by emailing For more information, visit economic.development@ www.enterprisem3growthhub.co.uk hart.gov.uk so we can add it. www.hart.gov.uk Business 11 A meeting with Mitch We would like to give a warm welcome to Mitchell Allen relationships with businesses in Hart, finding out what who has recently taken over the position of Business challenges they face and working with other council Development and Events Officer at Hart District Council. departments to support and enhance their As an introduction we've asked him a few questions: experience of trading in the Hart District. What experience do you bring to your role? My If you were stuck in a lift with a experience is largely from the B2B sector, working with famous person who would it be and large and micro businesses as well as internal and why? I think it would need to be Sir Richard external stakeholders. I have a huge passion for events Branson, as I firmly believe in his attitude to and can often be found at a networking event. work throughout his many ventures: A What’s been your favourite event to manage? happy team motivated to sell, leads to happy Hart Business Centre unveiled My favourite event would be PA & networking, which I and loyal customers who will always look after managed while working within a luxury hotel chain. I the success of your business. Are you a home business looking to keep home and work created and hosted a Fire & Ice themed evening, How can businesses get in contact life separate? The Hart Business Centre is officially open. including a speciality frozen drinks reception with you? I would like to hear from Hart for Business unveiled their new Business Centre on followed by an explosive fire eating businesses that are facing any challenges January 30. Located in the Hart District Council offices in performance. The attendees even had or would like to find out what training Fleet, it boasts 14 rentable desk spaces and a six-seater marshmallows to toas t! and networking events are on offer. meeting room equipped with a modern presentation What do you look forward to To contact me, email screen and whiteboard. the most about starting at Hart? [email protected] or The centre is available for businesses looking to have a I am looking forward to forging call 01252 774046. presence in the Hart District and small businesses already in the district. We offer flexible packages from as little as £30 pcm and meeting room hire from £10 per hour. Smart way to find businesses For more information on the packages we offer Great opportunities on offer and to book your desk, visit As part of our Economic Development Action Are you looking for additional networking opportunities, access www.hart.gov.uk/business-centre or call Plan we have now added an online business to business support and promotion? 01252 774046. directory to our website. Hampshire Chamber of Commerce is a membership You can access the business directory at organisation, owned and managed by local businesses, whose www.hart.gov.uk/business-listing goal it is to protect and promote business interests. If you are a Hart business wanting to Membership opens up a network of around 2,000 like- sign up to the listing, visit minded businesses based across the whole of Hampshire and is www.hart.gov.uk/ business-sign-up. Once available to businesses of all sizes and from all sectors. The you have submitted your listing, this will Chamber helps to make businesses more successful by providing be sent to the Economic Team for networking opportunities, business support and advice. approval. If you have any questions, For further details about the Chamber, visit email www.hampshirechamber.co.uk or contact the North [email protected] Hampshire office on 01256 338633. 12 Waste & Recycling www.hart.gov.uk

Love Food Hate Waste Sometimes we end up throwing away food for one reason or another, but did you know Keep your recycling clean, dry that each month, the average family throws away almost £60 of good food that was bought but not eaten? But don’t worr y, and loose www.lovefoodhatewaste.com has With the focus back on reducing loads of quick and easy ways you can save the use of plastics and plastic bags, more and waste less; here are four quick tips the Council is reminding residents to get you started. . . to please not place their recyclable It pays to plan! Planning your meals is one materials in carrier bags as we 1of the most effective ways you can cut need the material loose. wastage and food bills. Start by checking your We have seen a rise in the amount of fridge, freezer and store cupboard, and recycling sent for incineration and one before you go shopping, write a list, so you reason is due to an increase in people don’t shop for things you already have. Then tying their recyclables in carrier bags. you can work out a weekly meal plan. Check The materials recovery facility where out the LFHW weekly meal planner for the recycling is processed is a inspiration! combination of automated sorting Perfect portions. If you find you’re and staff hand picking 2throwing away food such as rice, pasta or items. potatoes at the end of a meal, that’s money Staff have to Free bags in the bin! Try the LFHW portion calculator, remove these bags www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/ from the sorting on offer to help portion-planner , for a handy way to process as they may measure just the right amount. contain waste, glass Storage solutions. Did you know that and other materials you recycle at home 3apples could last two weeks longer if that could damage Please recycle all your plastic bottles, cans and tins, they’re stored in the fridge? LFHW has lots machinery and the paper, card and empty aerosol cans in your blue recycling bin. of information on the best way to store quality of the other Please ensure all your recycling is clean, dry and loose. foods, and what the different date labels recycling. Hart District Council can provide you with a free, reusable bag mean, to help you make the most of what It is a real shame so you can store your recycling in your you buy. to see people’s home before taking it to your recycling bin. Love your leftovers. LFHW has hundreds efforts wasted because 4of easy and delicious leftover recipes, they tie their recycling To order your free recycling bag, call us on searchable by ingredient, to help you turn in carrier bags; so 01252 622122 what’s leftover from your meals and in your please don’t bag your or email [email protected] fridge and cupboards into delicious recycling but place it in new meals. your bin clean, dry and loose. www.hart.gov.uk Environmental Health 13 Dog wardens win RSPCA gold award for sixth year in a row Hart District Council has dog provision and one of just 27 to been awarded the prestigious receive the award for more than Gold Footprint Award for the five years in a row. sixth year in a row. “I am delighted that they are The RSPCA Community Animal among the many organisations to Welfare Footprint (CAWF) awards have maintained or bettered their celebrate good practice by CAWF award this year and very rewarding those organisations who encouraged to see new entries go above and beyond statutory too. service requirements with the aim “In the current economic climate of achieving higher animal welfare it is by no means easy for standards. organisations to come up with, The dog wardens continue to fund and have manpower to deliver high standards of animal protect and improve animal welfare care across the district and work within their communities so our hard to promote responsible dog awards are their chance to shine ownership, provide advice on and be recognised for the dangerous or aggressive dogs and difference they are making." enforce our dog fouling and The Council’s Dog Warden, dangerous dogs laws. Ayesha Saifie, joined Cllr Adrian Rachel Williams, senior Collett, Cabinet Member for parliamentary advisor for the Regulatory Services, at the CAWF RSPCA, said: “Hart District Council Winners Reception on 28 was one of 58 local authorities November at Parliament Square in across England and Wales to London and were officially Hart Dog Warden Ayesha Saifie (left) and Cllr Adrian Collett (right) receive the Gold Footprint award in London receive the gold award for stray presented with the award.

Shining examples of excellent food safety at businesses in Hart The Food Hygiene Excellence Award is l Fox and Hounds - Church given to local businesses who go above Crookham and beyond in Food Hygiene. l Galloping Gourmet - Yateley The scheme is an initiative to recognise l those food businesses that achieve Gloria’s Fayre - Odiham excellent standards of hygiene based l Going the Whole Hog - Yateley upon their last full food safety inspection. (Home Caterer) Only those food businesses that l Hawkeye Pizza - Fleet achieve the top score in one of three l Heath House Day Nursery - Fleet national scoring criteria used during food l hygiene inspections are included within Hill Brow - Ewshot l this scheme. Hill House - Ewshot The following businesses were l Lee’s Fish Bar - Blackwater awarded a certificate of excellence for l Mama Mia - Hartley Wintney achieving a high standard of compliance l with food safety: Maryfield Convent - Hook l Oaklea House Day Nursery - l Barista Coffee House and Tea Hook Rooms - Hartley Wintney l Oysters Fish & Chips - l Batchcooking - Church Blackwater Crookham (Home Caterer) l Run-About - Farnborough l Buttercups Day Nursery - Church lTavistock Pre-School - Fleet Crookham l l The Church on the Heath - Fleet Choices (Munchtime) - l Blackwater Warings Master Bakers - Hartley l Wintney Crondall County Primary School l - Crondall Woodlands Nursery - Church Crookham l Daisy’s Tea Room Serendipity - Fleet For more information about the l award please visit the Council’s Derriford House - Fleet website www.hart.gov.uk/ l Flamin’ Tasty - Crondall business-food-safety 14 Environment & Parking www.hart.gov.uk Ticket machines Car park to be refurbished Church Road car park is Fleet Road. being refurbished, with works Some areas of parking will starting on 3 April and being be removed to enable the are upgraded completed by May 2018. refurbishment. All ticket machines across were placed by each ticket This will provide a new Advance preparation works the district were upgraded machine to help visitors to layout, smooth road surface, occurred in 2017 with the during 2017 to enable a register their vehicle, and this enhanced drainage system, demolition of the old toilet variety of different ways to was helped by Customer dedicated walkways, planting, block, and upgrading the car pay. Support Officers in each car and relocation of the park drainage system. Car park users can now pay park as the new machines recycling centre. on exit, as well as paying by were installed. During the works, the car using the Smartphone app To provide feedback on For more information on park will remain open along MiPermit, by credit/debit the new machines, please the project, visit with customer pedestrian card or by coin for pay-and- visit www.hart.gov.uk/ www.hart.gov.uk/church- access to Sainsbury’s and display. new-ticket-machines- road-car-park- Marks & Spencer, and to New instructions for use feedback improvements

Trial aims to keep Government funding will help Hart free of litter and dog fouling Hart flood alleviation schemes Hart District Council applied to the An environmental enforcement programme to Environment Agency to develop stop littering and dog fouling within our district and deliver flood alleviation has been trialling since June 2017. schemes in three areas of the In partnership with East Hants District district, and was provided with Council, and at no cost to Hart, enforcement £230,000 of funding. officers have been patrolling the district The three areas that are being handing out on-the-spot fines to those caught investigated and schemes developed are dropping litter or not picking up after their Mill Corner at North Warnborough, dog s. In this bid to keep Hart a healthy and Phoenix Green at Hartley Wintney and, clean environment for all, we have seen the Kingsway at Blackwater. officers hand out more than 500 fines in the last seven months. Mill Corner, North Warnborough – In over 106 man days of enforcement, the £50,000 officers cover all areas of the district, including Mill Corner and the surrounding area Fleet, Hook, Yateley and Blackwater to name contains many features of historical and but a few. environmental importance, but has a The busiest areas for litter enforcement have history of flooding from surface water. been Fleet Road, Church Road and Church It was badly flooded in 2007 when heavy rain rushed off the surrounding Road car park in Fleet centre. As well as Flooding at Mill Corner patrolling our urban centres, they will also visit hillside, overwhelming the ditches in the our more rural areas, especially if a problem area, flowing down the roads into the Council to develop the scheme, which is Hart District Council is working in area is known. hamlet and flooding the majority of also being used as part of the Reading partnership with Hartley Wintney Parish The aim is to make people think twice properties. University LANDWISE research project Council and local landowners to develop before they drop litter and promote The money awarded to the Council that is looking into the effectiveness of a scheme, which once agreed, will be responsible dog ownership, keeping Hart the from the Environment Agency is for a natural flood risk management techniques presented to the regional Flood and best place to live in the UK. We hope to see small-scale surface water flood alleviation compared to more traditional approaches. Coastal Committee for final approval later fewer and fewer fines issued as the cleanliness scheme. Traditional hard engineering in 2018. of our streets improves. approaches are not possible, so the Phoenix Green, Hartley Wintney – The trial will be running until June 2018, at Council is using a pioneering natural flood £147,000 Kingsway, Blackwater – £30,000 which point the results will be analysed and the risk management approach which success of the trial reviewed. enhances natural processes to reduce and Phoenix Green has a history of flooding Kingsway has a long history of flooding The council will then decide whether to manage flood risk. from surface water, and the floods in 2000, from surface water and raw sewers, dating extend the enforcement action in to the As well as reducing surface water 2007 and 2009 affected a large number of as far back as 1990. future. floodin g, the scheme will improve the properties. In 2007 alone, 41 properties The funding awarded from the If you know of a litter or dog fouling hot condition of the Warnborough Green SSSI were affected by flooding. Environment Agency is being used to spot in the district, please report it and provide other habitat enhancements. The Council applied to the Environment identify the underlying cause of the using our online form at Hart District Council is working in Agency for funding so the cause of the flooding and provide the Council with www.hart.gov.uk/report-litter-hotspot partnership with the Hampshire and Isle flooding could be identified and a scheme evidence needed to secure further funds of Wight Wildlife Trust and the Parish developed to alleviate future flood events. for a flood alleviation scheme.

TNhe neew dwistrict wtider coansoflidfaitecd t raoffic orrdedr, wehich r shhighowayw pages o f opur waebsritek, anid nthe gext enat ofn the d waThei tCoiunncilg has ardveertissed tAmrenidcmetnti Noumnber s1 to shows parking and waiting restrictions on maps, came into restrictions can be found on our online maps by selecting the 2017 Order, which has been developed to implement force in May 2017. Traffic Regulation Order from the categories on the left new waiting prohibitions and restrictions to solve issues of This new development is a Map Based Traffic Regulation hand-side of the online map. parking relating to safety and general traffic management. Order, or MBTRO, which is a traffic order containing Where we make changes to the order, for example, to Some areas being addressed include obstruction to schedules that show parking and waiting restrictions on add a new restriction or to remove or change an existing residents from commuter parking, and parking at or near maps, and each map is called a map schedule. The MBTRO, restriction, an amendment to the MBTRO is made by an junctions obstructing the movement of traffic and reducing which is known as the Hart District Council (Prohibition Amendment Order. This may include changes to the safety near junctions. and Restriction of Waiting and Loading and Parking Places) written order or the replacement of the map schedules. For more information about traffic orders in (Consolidation) Order 2017, can be viewed as The amendments will be a combination of text based Hart, please visit Consolidated Order under traffic management on the documents, known as preambles, and new map schedules. www.hart.gov.uk/traffic-management www.hart.gov.uk Community Safety 15 Hart spring clean to remove graffiti Stay safe this summer The next Graffiti Focus Week With better weather takes place this spring. Graffiti and longer evenings Focus Week is an annual event upon us, Safer North across the Hart area where we Hampshire Community try to remove as much graffiti as Safety Team would like possible. to remind residents This is a highly visible initiative, about the importance which improves the local of following some environment and helps to simple home security improve perceptions of the local tips to ensure that area. Hart remains a safe Since initiating the project a and low-crime place to live. number of years ago, incidences l of graffiti across the district have Secure any windows that aren’t in view when you aren’t going to greatly reduced. be in a room for a long period of time or if you are in the back If you are aware of any graffiti garden. You can also consider installing net curtains to obscure any in your area, report it to us by views into a room. Remember to close and lock all windows when going out. emailing These tips may help to reduce l Plant hedges in front of l communitysafetyteam@ Don’t publicise your holiday plans on social networking sites – and the likelihood of graffiti in your wooden fences ask a trusted neighbour to keep an eye on your house whilst you communitysafetynh.org , calling area: l Install security lighting l are away. Also consider whether any photos you post online whilst 01252 774476 or by visiting Plant climbing shrubs on l Report any graffiti by calling www.hart.fixmystreet.com away are geotagged, which will let people know where you are. exposed brick walls 101. l Secure your shed by fitting a good quality padlock, with fittings reinforced on the inside with a steel plate. Consider replacing any existing door screws with ones that cannot be unscrewed. Remember to check that your home insurance covers items kept in sheds, garages or outbuildings. l Whether parking when out for the day or at home, remember to always lock your vehicle and don’t leave the windows open, even in hot weather. It is essential that you don’t leave items on display and Ways to keep your ensure you always take all valuables with you. Remember to NEVER leave dogs or children alone in hot vehicles, even for a few minutes. You can register valuables free on www.immobilise.com including make, model and photographs of items. For more children safe online information call 01252 774476 or visit www.safernh.co.uk Safer North Hampshire Community Safety Team are urging parents to be aware of what their children are doing online and what risks they may be exposing themselves to. Parents should start positive conversations with their children around what sites they visit, why they like them and whether they have ever seen anything that has made them feel uncomfortable. You should make sure your children know who to talk to if they see something they are uncomfortable with, as well as how to report this online and how to block someone. They should also be reminded about not sharing personal or sensitive material online. It is important that young people access age appropriate material – a number of popular mobile phone and tablet apps are age restricted. For example, you should be over the age of 13 to use Snapchat, Facebook and Instagram. There have been instances in the media recently where Parents should also Games consoles come young people have shared consider making use of with inbuilt parental controls videos that are considered parental controls on a that can be activated as and indecent and could lead to number of devices that can when needed. them being in trouble with be used to block harmful You can find out more the police. content, as well as control in- information about Discuss with them what is app purchases and how long helping your children and what is not appropriate children spend online. You stay safe online at to share and potential can download special apps www.saferinternet.org.uk consequences. for phones and tablets. and www.nspcc.org.uk 16 Health & Wellbeing www.hart.gov.uk Home-Start helps Hart Lottery's top good causes Hart Lottery has more great way for parents to Helping young struggling families than 45 good causes raise money for their families meet up Home-Start Rushmoor and Hart is a residents can choose child’s school to help pay Families with children from birth to five are small charity offering volunteer from, and the two that for additional resources. being given more opportunities to socialise support to vulnerable and struggling have received the most It’s such a quick and and meet other families, thanks to projects families with young children. support so far are easy way for parents to run by Barnardo’s and Southern Health. Volunteers provide a listening ear Calthorpe Park School help. Every pound really use the funds raised for Ready Steady Mums is a community- to lend emotional support, give Association and Aspire does make a difference.” training all our coaches based walking group that meets weekly to practical help with the challenges of Gymnastics at Aspire Gymnastics and volunteers.” give social support and motivation to get parenting or accompany parents to Frogmore. Frogmore said: “The For more information out in the fresh air. This physical activity access other services such as medical Calthorpe Park School club is always trying to about the Hart Lottery helps families embrace parenthood and appointments and social groups. Association said: “We raise funds and this is a and how to sign up, visit saw the lottery as a trouble-free system. We www.hartlottery.co.uk keep healthy both physically and mentally. In 2017 Home-Start launched two Hart Ready Steady Mums runs at new projects: l Elvetham Heath on Wednesdays at Nursery and school readiness – 10.30am and at Sandhurst Memorial funded by the Military Covenant, Park on Tuesdays at 10.30am. supporting families to engage with Feel healthier and happier Why not join your local group for some their children’s preparation for social exercise? Mum Claire said: “Every nursery or school. For more Want to make Whether our motivation is commissioned by Public Tuesday our group meets to exercise information please contact toni@ manageable changes to to feel healthier and happier, Health, Hampshire County homestartrushmoor.org.uk feel healthier and have more energy to do the Council for people who want together in the park. I love the fact that every week, no matter what the weather I l Mental health support – funded happier? You’re not alone. things we enjoy or something to lose weight and have a BMI have a good workout and a good catch up by the Big Lottery, supporting In January the Council else entirely, setting of 25+. with friends old and new. We spend an families where one parent has a teamed up with Hart manageable goals can help us It provides advice on diet hour in the park and at least that in the diagnosed mental health condition. Voluntary Action to hold the to achieve lasting change. and physical activity, but its café afterwards!” For more information, please One You Wellbeing Day at The NHS One You main focus is on helping Knowing Me, Knowing You is a group contact nikki@ Hart Shopping Centre. campaign encourages people people to develop self- homestartrushmoor.org.uk Local services were on to break down bigger goals regulation skills. that is run by health visitors to support mums who experience low mood or The charity couldn’t run these hand to offer support and into small, realistic steps and Another online tool called anxiety after the birth of their baby. projects without its 33 volunteers encouragement to help the website offers tips and ‘Don’t Bottle it Up’ lets people Knowing Us is the follow on peer and is always on the lookout for new people make manageable support for adults including a work out how much alcohol support group for continued support. volunteers with parenting experience. changes for better physical range of Apps. Find out more they are drinking and offers and mental health in 2018. at www.nhs.uk/oneyou free, confidential advice and For more information on our Please get in touch if this might be services, contact your Health Visitor Every year, many of us Local online tools have also information on local support. for you. Home-Start offers a or your local Community make New Year’s resolutions recently been launched across Visit our website at comprehensive preparation training Development Health Worker, Denise – maybe to lose weight, quit Hampshire. The POWeR www.hart.gov.uk/health- course for volunteers. Rogers. Call 07715 428714, email For more information, contact smoking, or get more sleep – online weight management wellbeing to find out [email protected] or admin@ but good intentions can be programme has been more about these online visit www.hampshirehealthyfamilies. homestartrushmoor.org.uk forgotten when we return to developed by University of tools and a range of local org.uk our normal routine. Southampton and support services.

18 Your Council and Elections www.hart.gov.uk Update on the Chairman’s Heart of Hart appeal Cllr Gerry Crisp was elected as Speaking about his fundraising, Cllr Chairman of Hart District Crisp said: “So far, it’s estimated that Council last May at the Annual over £10,000 will be raised through General Meeting. the Hart lottery, which will directly During his Civic Year Cllr Crisp has benefit my Heart of Hart charity chosen a range of charities across appeal. My grateful thanks to Hart which support vulnerable everyone who has supported my people in our communities. His Heart of Hart campaign in this way. charity campaign is called ‘Heart of “I look forward to continuing to Hart’ and consists of the following raise more funds for these truly charities: deserving charities over the final l Aerobility from Yateley months of my Civic Yea r. ” l First Responders from Fleet & Church Crookham For more information about l Home-Start from Hawley & Green and Yateley the Chairman and his chosen Blackwater charities, visit l Throughout his Civic Year Cllr Crisp Inclusion from Hook will be hosting a range of charitable www.hart.gov.uk/chairman- l Phoenix from Fleet council-2017 l events to raise funds for his 'Heart of Riding for the Disabled from Hart' appeal. His charities have also If you have any ideas for an Heckfield event to raise money for the l been included as the recipients of the Rosefield Day Centre from general community fund for Hart Chairman’s charities, please Odiham contact the Chairman’s l Lottery, meaning all charities will gain Vision 4 Youth from Eversley, Darby an equal share in the funds raised. Secretary on 01252 774143.

Calendar of Council meetings open to the public in 2018 The timetable here MEETINGS DAY APR MAY JUN JULY AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC shows when Council meetings take place. Important decisions are Cabinet Thurs 5 7 5 2 6 4 1 6 taken at Cabinet and Council meetings. Council Thurs 26 17 (Annual) 28 26 27 25 29 13 Members of the public are always welcome to Licensing Committee Tues 5 3 4 6 attend these meetings to see how the Council Planning Committee Wed 11 23 13 11 8 12 10 14 12 operates. Please see our website Planning (Enforcement) Mon 2 3 3 www.hart.gov.uk to view Sub-Committee 10am the agenda for specific meetings. Overview & Scrutiny Committee Tues 17 19 17 21 18 16 20 18 All meetings are held at Hart District Council Audit Committee Tues 29 24 23 Offices, Harlington Way, Fleet GU51 4AE. NOTES: - Unless otherwise specified, all meetings will commence at 7pm

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Hart District Council accepts no responsibility for the claims made by advertisers. The views presented by the advertisers are not the views of Hart District Council. Hart News is printed on paper from sustainable forests. www.hart.gov.uk Your Council and Elections 19 Check poll cards are up to date Keep connected before May’s council elections Voters will go to the polls on 3 May across the change in polling station, there are some changes for with Hart whole of Hart to elect eleven Councillors to some voters, so do not assume you will be voting represent them on Hart District Council. where you went last year. Always check your poll card Hart District Council wants to make it easy for Each registered voter will have one vote that they for the details personal to you. residents to get in touch. If you have a general enquiry, can use to choose a candidate from the list of those Electors who want to vote by post and are not you can contact us by calling 01252 622122 or emailing who are standing in their electoral ward . The candidate currently postal voters are urged to apply as soon as [email protected]. list is open to anyone who wants to stand and if you possible and before the 4 April if they need to have You can also connect with us quickly using our online want more information or an application form they postal votes issued in the first mail out. profiles (managed during office hours). are available from www.hart.gov.uk/elections until 6 April 2018. Like us on Facebook There are no planned County or Parliamentary /HartDistrictCouncil elections this year, but if you are registered for the 2018 key election dates /HartCountrysideServices District elections and qualified to vote at any other /HartEnvironmentalHealth 27 March: elections you won’t need to register again if another 72,000 poll cards issued for existing snap General Election is called. electors Follow us on Twitter 6 April: Existing electors who confirmed their 2018 voter Candidate list published @HartCouncil 12 April: registration by responding to the annual household 12,000 postal vote packs posted out to @HartCountryside enquiry form sent last autumn to each household in existing postal voters @HartForBusiness 17 April: Last day to register to vote for any new Hart, and who haven’t moved house since then, will www.gov.uk/register-to-vote still be registered. Any new elector who has registered electors ( ) Follow us on Instagram 18 April, 5pm: individually since last autumn will also be able to vote. Last day to apply for, cancel or @HartCouncil amend postal votes New residents who don’t receive a poll card should www.yourvotematters.co.uk register online at www.gov.uk/register-to-vote but ( ) Connect with us on LinkedIn 24 April: must do so before 11.59pm on 17 April. 500 postal vote packs posted out to the /Hart-District-Council All electors are urged to check their poll cards to remaining electors 26 April, 5pm: Last day to apply for a proxy vote Subscribe to us on Youtube ensure that they know which ward they are voting in www.yourvotematters.co.uk and, more importantly, that they know which polling ( ) Go to www.youtube.com and search Hart 3 May: station they are going to. While most electors have no Polling Da y, 7am to 10pm District Council