Embed Size (px)
DESCRIPTION
News and information from around the Winchester district, including the new What's On guide.
Citation preview
news from around thewinchester district
March 2009
perspectivesRecession worries?You are not on your own
See page 5
Make a positivechange it doesn’t
have to cost a pennywhat’s onsee pull-out see page 8
Picture shows Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust volunteer workers at Chappett Copse
perspectives2 w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k
Next stagesof the LocalDevelopmentFramework
Your council is here TO HELP YOU
The future of developmentin the Winchester District isbeing looked at by thelatest round of LDF Reports. They consider how the district canmeet its housing requirements overthe next twenty years, and how toensure that we retain and diversifyjobs, allowing people to live andwork locally.
During October, November andDecember 2008 the Council’s LDFCabinet considered all of the publicconsultation received on the issuesand options paper. The commentswere considered and councillorsagreed a series of recommendedapproaches to be taken forward tothe next stage of core strategypreparation.
A preferred options document will bepresented to the Council’s LDFCabinet committee for considerationand debate on 25 March 2009. This will present the core strategy asa set of policies and objectives to beimplemented across the District overthe plan period up to 2026. The Council will then approve this forconsultation at its meeting on 22April 09, with the public consultationtaking place during May/June.
For more information and details ofthe consultation visitwww.winchester.gov.uk/LDF
Struggling with debt? Housing worries? You are not on your own –Winchester City Council is encouraging local residents to seek support and take up theservices available to them during the recession to help through these difficult times. See page 5 for advice on getting through the recession and dealing with possible changesin your circumstances, and page 8 for some ideas of how to get the most from your local area, often for free.
Museums AccreditationThe City Council’s City Museum has been awarded quality accreditation underthe national Visitor Attraction Quality Accreditation Scheme (VAQAS) followinga rigorous process including mystery shopping.
The museum is only the third attraction in the district to win the accreditation,the others being Marwell and INTECH.
Customer ServiceExcellence
In the last edition of Perspectives we told you about our ambition to achieve the new government Customer Service Excellence standard.
During January two of our key divisions, Customer Service andLandlord Services underwent formal external assessment. As part ofthe rigorous process the assessors spent time reviewing policies andprocedures as well as visiting sheltered accomodation, the Sussex StHostel and Bishops Waltham Local Office.
Staff had to demonstrate that services were designed around the needs ofour customers, that they worked in partnership successfully, that they weretrained and consulted, and that customer focus was embedded throughoutthe Council from the Chief Executive through to frontline staff.
The good news is that both divisions were successfully accredited asworking to the Customer Service Excellence Standard. This success is justthe beginning as over the next three years every division will go throughthe process until Winchester City Council is recognised corporately as beinga Customer Service Excellence organisation.
perspectives 3
In the last issue of perspectives we toldyou about the national Place Survey thatwas conducted during October to December last year.This was designed to help local councils and thegovernment understand people’s views andexperiences of their local area and local publicservices. A total of 2,600 survey forms were sent torandomly selected residents in Winchester and thankyou to the 1,550 of you that returned them.
You helped us achieve a very impressive responserate of 60%, an improvement of 8% over a similarsurvey conducted in 2004. The average response ratefor all eleven districts in Hampshire was 55%.
Data entry and analysis of the results is now beingcarried out. This process will take a little while, but itis hoped that the results of the survey will beavailable on our web site by April.www.winchester.gov.uk/placesurvey
place survey
Update
w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k
CombinedElection in June 2009European Parliamentaryand County Councilelections will both be
taking place on Thursday 4 June 2009 acrossthe whole of the Winchester District. To vote you will need to have registered at your address by19 May 2009. Most people will already be registeredbecause they completed an electoral roll form last autumn,but residents who have moved to the District more recentlyand cannot recall completing a form, should contact theElectoral Services Unit on 01962 848 125 [email protected]
Poll cards are sent out about three weeks before theelection so if you don’t receive yours by the middle ofMay, or if you’ve got any queries about the electionprocess, then please contact the Electoral Services Unit.
If you want to apply for a postal vote or change yourpostal vote details you should do so before 19 May 2009.Remember, if you have a postal vote you cannot ask foryour ballot paper at the polling station.
Top Return in Annual Canvass 2008/9In August 2008, canvass forms weresent to over 48,000 properties in theWinchester District. This is for the annual collection of eligible electors’ detailsthat the Council needs in order to publish the revisedRegister of Electors on 1 December. Once on the Register,you are entitled to vote and it will also help you to obtaincredit, open bank accounts, etc.
For the second year running, electors with no changes totheir details had the opportunity to register online or bytelephone, they could also use this system to opt out ofthe Edited Register and request a postal vote applicationform. It proved to be a great success once again, withapproximately 30% of registrations being done in thisway. Positive feedback was received from many electorswho found this to be the easiest method of registering.
Finally, a big thank you to everyone who returned theirannual canvass form or registered by telephone or online– you helped us to achieve a 98% return rate and retainour place as one of the top performing Councils in thecountry for electoral registration.
Winchester’s Historic Environment Recordgoes online.For the first time, information on archaeologicalsites and historic buildings recorded in the cityof Winchester and the wider district will bemade available online. Winchester City Council’s Historic Environment Team hassuccessfully been awarded a grant from English Heritageto place information from the Winchester HistoricEnvironment Record (HER) onto a national portal, theHeritage Gateway.
The Heritage Gateway allows people to search in oneplace for images of England and Listed Buildings bothlocally and from the rest of the country.
Further information on the Heritage Gateway andinformation already available can be found by accessingwww.heritagegateway.org.uk or contact TracyMatthews, Archaeology Officer on 01962 848 380 or email [email protected]
perspectives4 w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k
Among the many features that make ourparishes so distinctive are the finebuildings, archaeological sites,monuments, trees and great views.The Council already works with residents to protect thesefeatures, often through the planning legislation that led tothe designation of 37 conservation areas across the districtsince the 1970s.
Conservation areas enjoy a special level of protectionwhich can be strengthened by the production of full‘character appraisals’ which clearly set out the specialqualities of an area. A long-term programme of work isnow being undertaken by our historic environment teamto conduct appraisals for every conservation area.
We are involving local people in researching, recordingand refining up to date character appraisals andsupporting management plans for all 37 areas.
Next on the list is Crawley, where a public meeting will takeplace on Monday 20 April at 7.30pm in the village hall.Views will also be gathered via questionnaires and e-surveys, and through close working with the ParishCouncil. Contact them to find out more or just turn up onthe night.
You can find out more on the Council’s websitewww.winchester.gov.uk/ConservationAreas
Hampshire Hospitality AwardsThis quality assessment schemefor restaurants, tea rooms, pubsand cafés and other eateries isspreading rapidly across thecounty following a pilot inWinchester in 2006.Eateries across the district thatreceived awards in 2008 are listedon the www.visitwinchester.co.uk. Awards are given for the use of locally grown produce ontheir menus, and the overall quality of the diningexperience both in terms of service and ambience.Browse the website to pick one that appeals and seewhat you think, and perhaps spend some of your holidaythis year exploring the district and ending up in thesefabulous eateries. The Tourist Information Centre is happyto suggest routes and ideas so either pop in or call01962 840 500. Happy eating!
Caring for ourhistoricenvironment
Winchester City Council is encouraging localresidents to seek support and take up theservices available to them during therecession. The current economicsituation will inevitably have anincreasing impact on many households’ability to meet costs. Any resident finding themselvesin difficulty should get advice at an early stage on thesteps needed and the options available. Our websitewww.winchester.gov.uk/recessionadvice has moreinformation, including some money saving tips.
Money andmanaging debtThere are numerous Benefitsschemes available.Winchester City Council offerHousing and Council Taxbenefits to those who qualify.
For more information and to see if you are eligible forhelp, visit www.winchester.gov.uk/benefits or foradvice call 01962 848 539. If you cannot get to CityOffices in Winchester you can also drop into one of theLocal Offices where benefits advice is available.� Alresford Local Office Mondays 10am until 1pm. � The Bishops Waltham Local Office Wednesdays
10am until 1pm. Appointments can also be made on 01962 840 222.
The Citizens Advice Bureau is a registered charity designedto help people resolve their legal, financial and otherproblems by providing free advice. Our local CABs whichare supported by grants from the City Council, are availableif you are having financial difficulty or simply want advice.
Winchester CAB, The Winchester Centre, 68 St GeorgesStreet, Winchester 01962 848 000
Bishops Waltham CAB, Well House, 2 Brook Street,Bishops Waltham 01489 896 376. For more information visit the CABs website -www.adviceguide.org
Fuel bills – grants may be available for residents andlandlords to help install energy efficiency measures toreduce costs. Visit www.warmfront.co.uk to find out more.
WorkJobcentre Plus is part of the Department forWork and Pensions (DWP) and offers supportto people who want to get into work, andhelps employers fill vacancies. Visit www.jobcentreplus.gov.ukto find out more.
Telephone - 08546060 234Textphone - 0845 6055255
Winchester Jobcentre Plus, City Gate, 1-8 City Road,WinchesterTelephone:01962 745 200
Fareham Jobcentre Plus, Crown Buildings, Civic Way, Fareham Telephone: 01329 24 3700
Careers Advice Direct offers helpful advice on careers and learning. Call 0800 100 900or visit careersadvice.direct.gov.uk
Housing If you are finding it difficult to pay yourmortgage or rent or are facingrepossession, the organisations below can help.
The City Council provides a Housing Advice service forpeople who are homeless or threatened withhomelessness. You can call 01962 840 222 to speak to an advisor.
Council Housing - If you are having housing issues andwish to apply for a council house, contact the City Councilfor an application form on 01962 840 222 or visitwww.winchester.gov.uk/housing
Winter Warming Payments - if you are over 60 you areeligible for a winter fuel payment to help with your fuelbills. For more information, call the helpline on 08459 15 15 15 or visitwww.thepensionservice.gov.uk/winterfuel
Personal and Family SupportFinancial pressures can cause stress toboth you and your family. Support andadvice is available from your LocalGP Surgery or The Samaritans, whooffer confidential emotional support 24 hours a day. If you find yourself stressed and needing someone impartial to speak to,
call 08457 90 90 90 or email [email protected]. You can also talk face-to-face by going to the local
branch: 13 Upper High Street, Winchester. Usualopening hours are 9.30am until 10pm.
w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k perspectives 5
Free Internet Access available at Winchester City
Council main reception,Winchester City Council Local
Offices in Alresford Library, Bishops Waltham CAB
and Winchester Discovery
Centre
perspectives6 w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k / e v e n t s
MARCHMayor’s Choice Exhibition: Aroundthe District (Until Sun 22 Mar)Winchester Discovery Centre (see venues opposite)
Speed the Plow by David Manet (Wed 4 – Sun 8 Mar) and Billy Liar(Tues 24 – Sat 28 Mar) For fullprogramme details for the year contactTheatre Royal (see venues opposite)
Hampshire’s Treasures Exhibition (Sat 21 Mar – Sun 10 May) Winchester Discovery Centre (see venues opposite)
Watercress Line Steam Gala (Fri 13 – Sun 15 Mar) and Mother’s Day(Sun 22 Mar) Watercress Line (seevenues opposite)
APRILCharlotte’s Web (Tue 7 – Wed 8 Apr) Theatre Royal (see venues opposite)
Day Out with Thomas (Sat 4 – Mon 13 Apr)Watercress Line (see venues opposite)
WW11 Battle Action!(Sun 12 – Mon 13 Apr) Royal Armouries Fort Nelson01329 233 734www.royalarmouries.org.uk
Easter Holiday Activities See www.visitwinchester.co.uk
MAYSee city festivals opposite forinformation on MAYfest.
Winchester Sports Festival(Sat 2 May)Opening of The Winchester SportsStadium 01962 826 362www.winchester.ac.uk
Fine Food and Wine Show (Sat 2 – Mon 4 May)Winchester Cathedral (see venuesopposite)
Alresford Watercress Festival (Sun 17 May)[email protected]
Wantage to Winchester Cycle Ride 2009(Sun 17 May)01962 867 [email protected]
JUNESee city festivals opposite forcity-based festivals this June.
Grange Park Opera(Wed 3 Jun – Mon 6 Jul)01962 737 [email protected]
Cycle Cavalcade & Bike Week Launch(Sat 13 Jun) 07908 880 455enquiries@winchesterbikeweek.org.ukwww.winchesterbikeweek.org.uk
Father’s Day(Sun 21 Jun)Watercress Line (see venues opposite)
JULYSee city festivals opposite for city-based festivals this July.
Contemporary Art, Craft andDesign Fair (Fri 3 – Sun 12 Jul)Winchester Cathedral (see venuesopposite)
Bishop’s Waltham Festival (Mon 6 – Sun 12 Jul)www.bishopswalthamfestival.com
Jane Austen’s House, Chawton:Bicentenary Event (5 Jul)01420 83262 [email protected] www.jane-austens-house-museum.org.uk
Winchester Discovery CentreSummer Holiday Events(Thu 23 Jul – Thu 3 Sep) Winchester Discovery Centre (see venues opposite)
Open Up, Lighten Up (24 – 26 Jul) 01962 840 500 (Winchester TouristInformation Centre)www.visitwinchester.co.uk
The Winchester Food & ProduceShow 2009 (Sun 26 Jul)9:30am - 4:00pmWinchester Guildhall (see venuesopposite)
Summer Holiday ActivitiesSee www.visitwinchester.co.uk
AUGUSTHampshire Open Studios(Sat 15 – Sun 30 Aug)023 8045 [email protected]
Day Out with Thomas(Sat 8 – Sun 16 Aug)Watercress Line (see venues opposite)
SEPTEMBERAlresford Agricultural Show(Sat 5 Sep)01962 738 [email protected]
Ladybird Make and Do Exhibition(Wed 9 Sep – Sun 4 Oct) DiscoveryCentre (see venues opposite)
Heritage Open Days (Thu 10 – Sun 13 Sep)01962 840 500 (Winchester TouristInformation Centre)www.civictrust.org.uk
OCTOBERHampshire Harvest Weekend (Sat 3 – Sun 4 Oct) WinchesterCathedral (see venues opposite)
Tudors at the Westgate (Sat 3 – Sun 4 Oct)Vikings at the City Museum (Fri 30 – Sat 31 Oct)Halloween Horrors at theWestgate (Sat 31 Oct)01962 869 864 (Westgate) 01962 863 064 (City Museum)See www.winchester.gov.uk
Return of Dr Terror in the Tunnels (Tue 27 – Fri 30 Oct)Royal Armouries Fort Nelson01329 233 734www.royalarmouries.org.uk
See www.visitwinchester.co.uk for more harvest and halloween themed events throughout the month plus half termactivities.
NOVEMBERRound Table Bonfire andFireworks Display (Sat 7 Nov)bonfire@winchesterroundtable.co.ukwww.winchester-roundtable.org.uk
Christmas Lights Switch On(Thu 19 Nov)Winchester's Buttercross 4:00pm01962 840 500 (Winchester TouristInformation Centre)www.wincity.uk.com
Making Merry Open Studios(Dates TBC)01962 840 500 (Winchester TouristInformation Centre)www.visitwinchester.co.uk
Winchester Cathedral ChristmasMarket (Thu 26 Nov – Sun 13 Dec)Winchester Cathedral (see venuesopposite)
Winchester Cathedral Ice Rink(Thu 26 Nov – Sun 3 Jan) Winchester Cathedral (see venuesopposite)
DECEMBERWatercress Line Santa Specials(Dates TBC)Watercress Line (see venues opposite)
Christmas Holiday ActivitiesSee www.visitwinchester.co.uk
what’s onmajor events
This is just a selection of the eventstaking place in Winchester from Marchthis year.
For the most up-to-date information visitwww.winchester.gov.uk/events or callWinchester Tourist Information Centre on01962 840 500.
MAYfest(Fri 15 May – Sat 16 May) Two days of music, song and dance inthe streets, pubs and concert venues ofWinchester. 07807 084 219 [email protected]
Festival of Art & Mind(Fri 26 Jun – Sun 28 Jun/Mon 6 Jul)A three-day series of talks, discussionsand performances at WinchesterDiscovery Centre in June. And see SirJohn Tavener's work 'Towards Silence' inWinchester Cathedral on Mon 6 July.Tickets from venues direct (see facingpage) 01962 779 [email protected]
Winchester Writers’ Conference,Festival and Bookfair (Mon 29 Jun – Sun 5 Jul)Michael Morpurgo leads a line-up ofrenowned authors, poets, playwrightsand industry specialists offering insightsfor writers. 01962 827 [email protected]
Hat Fair (Thu 2 Jul – Sun 5 Jul)The UK's longest-running festival ofstreet theatre, now in its 34th year,offers three days of fun, entertainment and activities for all the family.01962 849 [email protected]
Hampshire Food Festival (Wed 1 Jul – Fri 31 Jul)Hampshire’s food takes centre stageduring events at dozens of venuesacross the county - from farms to towncentres and vineyards to hotels01962 845 [email protected] www.hampshirefare.co.uk
2009 Winchester Festival (Fri 10 Jul – Sun 19 Jul)Festival featuring concerts of choral andchamber music, jazz, literary events,film, drama and children’s activities.Various venues across the city.01962 857 240winchesterfestival@winchester-cathedral.org.ukwww.winchesterfestival.co.uk
w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k / e v e n t s 7perspectives
regular diary slots city festivalsGet Fit!Forces Fit: popular outdoor groupfitness training delivered byinstructors with military training.Tuesdays and Thursdays 7 – 8pm,Sundays 11am – 12 noon. 07595 960 535 [email protected]
Know Your City?Winchester's official tourist guidesoffer an ever-changing programme of 1½ hour tours that delve into thestories behind the kings, castles,abbeys, pubs, architectural quirks,street furniture, - even our almost-forgotten railway. £4.50 per adult. 01962 840 [email protected]
Space LecturesA series of space lectures for adultsand children aged 11+, followed by a short planetarium show about each month's sky. Lectures on thesecond Wednesday of each month(ex. Aug) 6:30pm - 8pm.01962 863 [email protected] www.intech-uk.com
Time Travel TalksHampshire Record Office hosts freelunchtime talks and film shows on the last Thursday of each month between 1:15 – 1:45pm, the series brings the archives to life.01962 846 [email protected]/archives
A Little Night Music…Musical talks on the first Friday ofeach month (ex. Aug) withWinchester Music Society, who gatherin The Recital Room of Peter SymondsCollege of 7:30pm – 9:30pm. Visitors £301962 880 [email protected]
The Mayor’s Charity Events (Sun 29 Mar – Wed 20 May)The Mayor’s chosen charities benefitfrom various fund-raising eventsincluding The Spring Fair in the SaxonSuite of Winchester Guildhall between10am – 3pm on Sun 29 March. Forfurther information on the fullprogramme up to Wed 20 May please contact Cllr Read on023 9225 [email protected] From 21 May when Cllr DominicHiscock becomes Mayor, seewww.winchester.gov.uk).
Real Ale TrainThe popular Real Ale Train departs at7:20pm from Alton station andreturns at 10:34pm after two roundtrips by steam locomotive toAlresford. Connects with the 10:44pmSWT service to London and otherstations. Tickets £10, advance bookingessential. 01962 733 [email protected]
Winchester Music Club 01962 851 [email protected] www.winchestermusicclub.org.uk
Winchester SymphonyOrchestrawww.winchestersymphonyorchestra.org.uk
Winchester Archaeology andLocal History (WARG)01962 867 [email protected]
venues
The Chesil Theatre07527 471 [email protected]
Intech01962 863 [email protected] www.intech-uk.com
Meadowside Leisure Centre01489 577 [email protected]/meadowside
River Park Leisure Centre01962 848 700enquiries@riverparkleisurecentre.co.ukwww.riverparkleisurecentre.co.uk
The Screen Cinema 0870 066 4777www.everymancinema.com
Tower Arts 01962 867 [email protected] www.towerarts.co.uk
Theatre Royal01962 840 [email protected] www.theatre-royal-winchester.co.uk
University of Winchester01962 841 515www.winchester.ac.uk
Watercress Line (Mid Hants Railway)01962 733 [email protected]
Winchester Cathedral01962 857 200cathedral.office@winchester-cathedral.org.ukwww.winchester-cathedral.org.uk
Winchester Discovery Centre 0845 603 [email protected] www.discoverycentres.co.uk/winchester
Winchester Guildhall 01962 840 [email protected]
Get ActiveWalk: The Winchester district is anundeniably beautiful part of thecountry rich in lush landscape andpicturesque scenery. Walking is a fantasticexercise which can be as gentle or strenuous as you like,and can be enjoyed by all the family. Why not pack apicnic, strap on your walking boots and discoverWinchester from a new perspective. Suggested free toursand trails are available from our website but you can pickup a leaflet from the TIC from as little as £1. Other ideasinclude getting on your bike, being active for at least30mins a day, joining one of our leisure centres, or using
our sports facilities.
Expand your knowledgeVisit the Discovery Centre: The Winchester Discovery
Centre combines learning with leisure, boasting afabulous Library, an exhibition space, performance halland refreshments area. Why not join and take advantageof the thousands of books, CDs and DVDs available, orjust visit the regular fascinating exhibitions at the CityCouncil’s ‘City Space’. Other ideas include Adulteducation classes and learning about the history ofWinchester at the Hampshire Records Office andCity Council Museums.
Enjoy CultureThe Winchester District is lucky to have avariety of cultural activities on offer all yearround. From the Theatre Royal to famous festivals such asthe Hat Fair and regular exhibitions and performances.Winchester Cathedral has many events throughout theyear and the Council’s online events calendarwww.winchester.gov.uk/events is a great resource forfinding things to do for all the family.
Go GreenIf you are keen to reduce your carbonfootprint, consider joining WinACC -Winchester Action on ClimateChange. It is a group of organisationsand citizens seeking to encouragehouseholds and organisations in theWinchester district to meet the challenge of climatechange and to realise the benefits of low carbon living.Use the WinACC website to calculate your carbonfootprint and then make a pledge to reduce it over thecourse of the year. You can also buy locally, recycle more,help preserve the countryside and reduceyour energy use and costs.
Be involvedVolunteer: The Volunteer Centre inWinchester offers information on everythingyou need to know about volunteering in theWinchester district, for both individuals and organisations.They can match you up to opportunities that suit youravailability and interests. The Volunteer Centre inWinchester and Winchester District Sport and PhysicalActivity Alliance are working in partnership to establish aphysical activity volunteer bank to increase the number of
coaches, officials and sports volunteers in the District. Visit www.volunteercentrewinchester.org.uk. Other ideas include joining your Parish Council, getting involved in community planning and
community groups, and supporting local charities.
You can also get involved with 2012 and 'Live Your Dream'.Ideas and events can be found onwww.winchester.gov.uk/liveyourdream
Have you made your New Year's resolution yet?It’s not too late to
perspectives8 perspectives8 w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k
How about getting active by walking and leaving your car at home... or maybe it is time toenjoy the rich culture right on your doorstep... perhaps this is the year to go green and doyour bit for the environment. This year could be the one to make a positive change to anaspect of your life. The City Council is involved in a wide variety of activities and initiativesthat may spark your interest, the best bit though is that a lot of them are free – some ideasare below but visit www.winchester.gov.uk/beinspired for further inspiration.
What does this sign mean?
(a) No entry (b) No waiting (c) No loading
What do these yellow lines mean?
(a) No waiting at any time, (b) No waiting Monday-Saturday,(c) No loading
A parking ticket can be issued by
(a) post,(b) being handed to the driver,(c) being affixed to the vehicle, or(d) all of the above?
What is a CPZ?
(a) Clamping patrol zone(b) Controlled parking zone(c) Civil permit zone
How much is an ‘on-street’ penalty chargenotice in the Winchester District?
(a) £50(b) £70(c) £90
How many opportunities do you have toappeal against a penalty?
(a) none(b) one(c) two(d) three
In Winchester and the surrounding districts, can the holder of a disabled ‘blue badge’...
(a) park where they like,(b) park for a limited time on double yellow lines,(c) park free in any car park
This symbol means (a) ‘No waiting’ andcan be seen upon entry to the High StreetPedestrian Zone in Winchester, along withthe words ‘at any time’.
The answer is (a) ‘No waiting at any time’.The main concession to this rule is fordisabled ‘Blue badge’ holders, who can park ondouble or single yellow lines for a limited time period.
The answer is (d). A penalty can now be issued by post underthe new legislation of the Traffic Management Act 2004. If apenalty is in the process of being issued it is advisable that thedriver waits to be handed the document.
A CPZ is (b) a Controlled Parking Zone. The centre of Winchesteris covered by such a zone, and signs showing this are found onall routes into the city. The entry sign indicates the times whenwaiting is prohibited. The yellow lines within the zone do notnormally have yellow plates indicating the times of theprohibition unless the times are different from those shown onthe entry sign.
The answer is (a) or (b) Penalties are now issued under a two-tierstructure with those being more obstructive to the flow of trafficbeing set at £70, with lesser contraventions set at £50.
The answer is (d). Most penalties are appealed within the first 14days to take advantage of the discount period, however this isknown as an informal challenge. A formal appeal can be madeonce a ‘Notice to Owner’ document has been issued, and ifrejected, motorists also have an independent adjudicationprocess made available to them.
The answer is (b). Drivers are allowed to park for a maximum ofthree hours on double yellow lines, if no loading restrictions arein force. Blue badge holders cannot park where they like, asoften double yellow lines will also have loading/unloadingrestrictions in place. Blue badge holders cannot currently parkfree of charge in our barrier controlled car parks, but can park forfree elsewhere.
The answer is (c) or (d). Poor parking means that some spacescannot be used properly and, if someone has not parked in a bayat all, safety issues need to be considered.
Changes in the rules of the road happen regularly and can often go unnoticed. If you can identifythe following symbols, and answer the questions correctly you should be able to reduce the risk of receiving an unwelcome Penalty Charge Notice.
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q5
Q6
Q7
Q8
Passed your Driving Test? Now try the Parking Test!
A1Q1
A2
A3
A4
A5
A6
A7
A8Why do we issue penalties if a car is parked ‘out of bay’ in a car park?
(a) because we can(b) we have a quota or target to maintain(c) because it has denied another vehicle the
right to access the adjoining space (d) for safety reasons.
w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k perspectives 9
A new way to help you find a homeThe City Council has been working in partnership with EastHampshire District Council and Havant Borough Council todevelop a Choice Based Lettings scheme for customerswishing to access social housing across all three localauthority areas; it is called Hampshire Home Choice and will be going live on 22 April 2009.
Hampshire Home Choice
Hampshire Home Choice will involve the Council advertising vacantproperties which registered applicants will be able to bid for in the areasthey would like to live. The new scheme offers greater choice to all thoseapplicants seeking housing, enabling customers to make well-informeddecisions about their housing options and be more proactive in how theyfind suitable accommodation.
All applicants who have filled in the new application form are on the Housing Register and have already received information about the scheme. A newsletter with more information will be sent to all registered applicants in February 2009. If you would like to find out more you can do so atwww.winchester.gov.uk/hampshirehomechoice or call 01962 840 222, orvisit our Local Offices www.winchester.gov.uk/localoffices
GARAGES TO LET
We currently have garages availableto rent in the following areas. If youwould be interested in renting agarage please make enquires to SteveMachen on 01962 848 148 or:[email protected]
Abbotts Barton Old AlresfordBishops WalthamCurdridgeDenmeadHighcliffeKingsworthy Otterbourne
SparsholtBostock CloseStanmoreSwanmore WeekeWickhamWinnall
Push 4 Safer Homes is a newscheme offering help to privatehome owners who need to maketheir homes safer, warmer or moreaccessible. The scheme is operatedin partnership with several localauthorities in Hampshire and isdesigned to help older, disabled,or vulnerable people who cannotafford to make vital improvementsto their home.
Help available includes a HomeImprovement Loan – an interestfree loan secured on your property, aWarm Home Grant – helping you toinsulate and heat your property, andan Accessible Home Loan – helpingthose with disabilities to make theirhomes more accessible. In manycases, this help is available inconjunction with help offered byother schemes.
If you would like more informationor would like to make anapplication, please call free on 0800519 17 17 (Monday to Thursday8.30am to 5pm – Friday 8.30 to4.40pm) or email [email protected]. Alternatively, you can visit the Push 4 Safer Homes website atwww.push.gov.uk/4_safer_homes
perspectives w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k10 perspectives
Specific locations can be seen atwww.winchester.gov.uk/garages
Garage Weekly ChargesCouncil Tenants: £7.87 per week
Private:£10.26 per week
Private Central Location£12.08 per week
Council Leaseholders£8.92 per week
Council Leaseholder Central Location £10.50 per week
We also have a number of other garagesites throughout the district. If you areinterested in joining the waiting list forany of our other garage sites pleasecontact us on the above telephonenumber or email address.
Push 4 Safer Homes
Although most healthy adults will suffer nothing morethan mild flu-like symptoms, it does have the potentialto lead to severe blood poisoning or meningitis, and inthe worst cases it can leave sufferers hospitalised formany weeks.
Infection with Listeria usually arises from eatingcontaminated foodstuffs. The most commonly associatedfoods include pre-prepared cooked and chilled meals,soft cheeses, cold cuts of meat and smoked fish. Listeriais one of the more unusual food poisoning bacteria as it
can multiply at temperatures rangingfrom normal room temperature
down to as low as 5oC(refrigeration temperature).
It is impossible to tellfrom the appearance,smell or taste whetherfood is contaminatedwith Listeria, whichmakes the control of itso important.
Following these simple steps can help you minimise the risk:� Make sure your fridge is set to 5oC or below and is
working correctly� Foods taken out of chilled storage should be eaten
within four hours – after this it should be thrown away� Keep cooked and raw foods separate� Follow the storage instructions printed on the foods
label� Cook food thoroughly ensuring that it is cooked in
the centre� Don’t use food after its ‘use by’ date � Use opened foods within two days, unless the label
states otherwise� Throw away left-over reheated food. � Cooked food that is not eaten should be cooled as
quickly as possible and then stored in a fridgeMore information about food safety can be found atwww.winchester.gov.uk/foodsafety
Do you drink water from a private supply? A private watersupply is not a ‘mains’ supply provided by a water company.It could serve just one property, or it could be a large supplywith a network of pipes serving many properties.
It is likely that you are on a private water supply if you donot pay either Southern Water or Portsmouth Water fordrinking water. However, you may still pay the WaterAuthority for sewage services so it is best to check your bill.
Since 1991, Local Authorities have been required to checkthe quality of all privately-owned water supplies in theirarea and, later this year, new Regulations are beingintroduced to give the City Council increased powers toimprove those private water supplies which are failing tomeet the required standards.
The City Council currently holds a register of over 150private water supplies which are tested on a regular basisto ensure they meet drinking water standards.
The register is also shared withother bodies, such as the EnvironmentAgency to ensure that the water quality is notcompromised by agricultural activities or newdevelopments. To protect drinking water quality it isimportant that the register is kept up to date.
If you own or drink water from a private supply and areunsure whether it has been registered with the CityCouncil, please contact the Environmental ProtectionTeam on 01962 848 250. Officers will arrange to make a visit and investigate whether your water is safe todrink. For further information visitwww.winchester.gov.uk/EnvironmentAndPlanning/Pollution/Water.
Keeping yours and your family’s food sa fe
Private Water SuppliesRegister to ensure your water is safe to drink
Instances of illness in the UK from Listeria are on the increase, particularly in people overthe age of 60 with reduced immunity.
w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u k perspectives 11
w w w. w i n c h e s t e r. g o v. u kperspectives12
PTC0
028-
2824
9 M
arch
200
9 D
esig
ned
by W
inch
este
r City
Cou
ncil’
s De
sign,
Prin
t & W
P Se
ctio
n.
Prin
ted
by B
ishop
s Pr
inte
rs.
This magazine is produced by Winchester City Council.
If you would like to contact us about any of the services featured in this issue,please see the contact details given in each article. You can also write to us at CityOffices, Colebrook Street, Winchester, SO23 9LJ, call Corporate Communicationson 01962 848 504, or email [email protected]. Telephone calls may be recorded.Winchester City Council is not responsible for the content of external websites.
This magazine is printed on 75% recycled paper.
Tape versions are available on request from Winchester Talking Newspaper, through our Corporate Communications Unit.
D i s t r i c t Y o u t h C o u n c i lo f W i n c h e s t e r
Over 55s’Action ForumBefore Christmas, followingan Older Persons InformationDay at the Discovery Centre,a meeting was held entitled‘Speaking Up For Old Age’.The aim of the meeting wasto explore the possibility ofestablishing an Over 55s’Action Forum.Forum member Heather Nicholsonsaid "Following on from thatsuccessful meeting, we wish toappeal for more people to join us.Ideally we need to attract peoplefrom all areas, with a wide range ofinterests. As long as you are over55 you are very welcome to join.”� Are you over 55?
� Are you interested inolder people’s issues?
� Would you like to meet like-minded people?
� Do you want to influence thepolicy makers and make sureolder people’s voices are heard?
Youth of Winchester havespent their first yeardeveloping links between thedistricts secondary schools,school councils, and theirpeers to represent the viewsof young people in theWinchester District.In the coming year they will beconcentrating on their 4 prioritieswhich are; transport for youngpeople, positive images of youngpeople, leisure facilities includingpublicising what already exists, andtackling bullying.
Newly elected Chair of YOW, MalyhaAhmed said, "As a district Winchesterneeds to communicate with all youngpeople, and include everyone,regardless of their background orintellect. In my new role as chair, I wantto make YOW a name that is commonlyheard, and develop it into a setting inwhich everyone feels comfortable instating their beliefs, and having themheard by people that can act."
YOW elected officers meet every halfterm during school time, and there areopen meetings from 5pm - 6.15pm,every other month which all youngpeople can attend.
Winchester City Council is working inpartnership with Hampshire CountyCouncil Children's Services (YouthService) and secondary schools across the district.
If you would like to find out moreabout Youth of Winchester and howyou can get involved please [email protected] ortelephone Nicola Lawrence on 01962 848 497.
75%
� Are you happy with theavailability and accessibility oflocal services?
� Are you concerned with localtransport, recreation and leisure,social activities, care, housing,local health services, preservinglocal facilities, and anything elsewhich could affect us?
� Have you ever thought ‘if only’?
There are now a large number ofsimilar groups in Hampshire andcountry wide operating a range ofremarkable projects and activities intheir respective areas. Winchester’sOver 55s’ Action Forum aims to be apositive influence in the Winchesterarea, represent the views and needsof older people to the City Counciland beyond.
The project is supported byWinchester City Council, and welook forward to hearing fromanyone who would like to getinvolved. Please phone NicolaLawrence on 01962 848 497 forfurther details.
Free Swimming!From 1 April, Winchester City Counciland partners DC Leisure are offeringfree swimming at River Park LeisureCentre to children and young people(aged 16 and under) and to olderpeople (aged 60 and over), thanks toa grant from the Department ofCulture, Media and Sport. Initially fora two year period, the freeswimming initiative supports effortsto get more people more active bythe time of the London 2012Olympic and Paralympic Games.
