LOCALTunbridge Wells Borough Council magazine

tunbridgewells.gov.ukAutumn 2014

inside:

Council finances

North Farm

Activities, news and loads

more

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Welcome to Autumn Local! Are you interested to see where your Council Tax goes each year, what percentage we keep for local services...and how much those local services cost each day? Perhaps you'd simply like to 'look at the books'... all can be found on pg 1417.We plugged this year's Love Where We Live awards in the last two editions of Local and I'm delighted that we have exceeded the amount of nominations received in previous years. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of this year's initative - I look forward to seeing some of you at the awards evening in a few weeks' time.And finally, as always, we have pages full of interviews, shows, activities and news to keep you informed. Lizzie Goodwin Editor

We produce Local to keep you up-to-date about council services and news. If you have any comments about the magazine, wed love to hear from you. Contact us by:

E-mail Localemail@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

Phone 01892 526121

Post Lizzie Goodwin, Communications and Engagement Team Leader, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Town Hall, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1RS

TWellsCouncil TWBC_Comms

To advertise, contact Space Marketing Ltd, 01892 677740 or e-mail markg@spacemarketing.co.uk

Advertising helps to keep our costs down. We do not endorse the external products and services advertised in Local. The information in this publication was correct at the time of going to print. Tunbridge Wells Borough Council cannot accept responsibility for any errors, omissions or subsequent changes.

If you require Local magazine in large print or audio CD please phone 01892 554273

CHRISTMAS BIN COLLECTIONS News in the winter edition and on our website from the end of November.

Performances Matinee EveningFriday 12 Dec 7.00pmSaturday 13 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmSunday 14 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmMonday 15 Dec No performancesTuesday 16 Dec 10.30am 7.00pmWednesday 17 Dec 10.30am 7.00pmThursday 18 Dec 10.30am 7.00pmFriday 19 Dec No performancesSaturday 20 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmSunday 21 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmMonday 22 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmTuesday 23 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmWednesday 24 Dec 1.00pm Thursday 25 Dec No performancesFriday 26 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmSaturday 27 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmSunday 28 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmMonday 29 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmTuesday 30 Dec 1.00pm 5.00pmWednesday 31 Dec 1.00pm Thursday 1 Jan No performancesFriday 2 Jan 1.00pm 5.00pm Saturday 3 Jan 1.00pm 5.00pmSunday 4 Jan 1.00pm 5.00pm

TicketsGreen Prices:

Opening Night & Friday 2 January*All tickets 16.50

(No other discounts)

Yellow Prices:Tiered Stalls & Circle: 24

Front Stalls: 21

Discounts and OffersSenior Citizens: 2 off

(Excludes Opening Night and Friday 2 January)

Children: 15.50, 12(Back of the front stalls)

Family Ticket (4): 10% off(Front stalls only)

Groups 15+: 3 off all adult tickets

*Relaxed PerformanceFriday 2 January at 5.00pm

The relaxed performance is open to everyone and is specifically designed to welcome people with an Autistic

Spectrum Condition, learning disability and other sensory and communication disorders. The performance offers a less formal and more supportive atmosphere in relation to noise and movement, with small changes to the performance sound levels, special effects and the

auditorium lighting.

Signed PerformanceTuesday 16 December at 7.00pm

Friday 12 December 14to Sunday 4 January 15

Booking Fee: A 1.25 per ticket booking fee, up to a maximum of 12.50, will be added to all orders booked online or through the Box Office.

Terms & Conditions: Concessions, discounts and offers are not available on Opening Night and 2 Jan 5pm performances. Offers and discounts cannot be used in conjunction with each other and are restricted to one offer/discount per transaction.

Proudly supported by

TW Peter Pan Guide DPS.indd 2-3 05/08/2014 13:19

6 New car club

23 Panto

10 North Farm business

as usual

7Ice rink

27 Halloweenposter

14 to 17 Finance report

11 New events planning toolkit

TW79 3

Chancellor and Chief Commander of St John's Ambulance), and has already seen great numbers of visitors fascinated by the local angle on a national story.

Between 1914 and 1918, Tunbridge Wells like the rest of the country was transformed by war. The town had a vital role as a medical

centre for treating wounded soldiers.

From late September 1914 wounded British Army and Belgian soldiers began to arrive from the continent. The General Hospital in Tunbridge Wells received the more seriously injured soldiers, with the auxiliary Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) hospitals across the borough mainly treating convalescents.

To deal with the injuries caused by a modern, technological war, a highly organised system of medical support was developed. On the frontline, stretcher-bearers carried injured soldiers to regimental aid posts and casualty clearing stations. From there, ambulances and trains transported them to base hospitals, or if they were in a stable but serious condition, back to Britain or Blighty.

This exhibition explores the experiences of both the wounded soldiers and those who cared for them and runs until January 2015. For more information about associated events, talks and activities visit tunbridgewellsmuseum.org.uk or call 01892 554171.

Fridays are fun at Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art GalleryOn the second Friday of every month, Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery hosts arts, crafts and storytelling activities for under 5s. These sessions are completely free, but children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. No booking is required, just feel free to drop in and join the fun from10.30am until 11.30am.

Upcoming sessions include:10 October: Dinosaurs and Fossils7 November: Poppies12 December: Christmas Crackers

For more information visit tunbridgewellsmuseum.org.uk or call 01892 554171.

First World War Centenary exhibition still on at Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art GalleryThe 'Back to Blighty' exhibition opened at Tunbridge Wells Museum & Art Gallery in the summer with a speech from Baroness Emerton (former Chief Nursing Officer of South East Thames Regional Health Authority, and

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5

Pay as you driveJoining a car clubThey can provide a great alternative to car ownership as you get all the convenience of a car without any of the hassle.

No road tax or fuel to pay, no MOT or car servicing to worry about (or cleaning!) all you pay for is membership and car hire.

Low-mileage drivers could benefit financially from joining a car club members who drive less than 68,000 miles per year could save up to 3,500 a year (Carplus 2014). Youll be dramatically reducing your impact on the environment too. Car club cars are more environmentally- friendly, emitting over 20 per cent less CO2 per kilometre than the average car, and they are used more efficiently. One car club car replaces over 20 private cars, helping to reduce traffic jams and free up parking spaces.

Why we decided to set one upTraffic is considered to be the main source of air pollution in Tunbridge Wells. There is currently an Air Quality Management Area where levels of Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) are exceeding national targets and are therefore monitored.

Studies have demonstrated that poor air quality is estimated, on average, to reduce the life expectancy of each person in the UK by an average of six to eight months, with estimated annual costs of up to 16 billion. Therefore, the council is committed to finding solutions that reduce the harmful impact of air pollution from traffic.

Car clubs help to support other sustainable transport measures, by plugging gaps and facilitating long-term behavioural change, providing a viable and attractive alternative to private car use. Many users are given, often for the first time, the option of not having to

own a car. Members tend to choose to use a car specifically as it is the most appropriate mode of travel for a specific purpose rather than by default (as with private cars). This results in members demonstrating an overall reduction in the number of car trips made, an increase in walking, cycling and use of public transport, and consequently making a contribution towards reducing traffic congestion and improving air quality. Car club vehicles are newer, with lower air pollutants and carbon emissions than the cars being replaced.

Thinking about joining?Go online

to register as a driver

co-wheels.org.uk

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The Royal Tunbridge Wells ice rink is returning this winter for another skating season. So be ready to dig out your ear muffs and gloves, grab someone's hand and have some fun!

The outdoor ice rink situated within the natural amphitheatre of Calverley Grounds offers spectacular views of the park, along with a unique and special festive experience.

Councillor Jane March, Cabinet Member with responsibility for Tourism, Leisure and Economic Development says:

I am so pleased that the ice rink is back in Royal Tunbridge Wells for 2014. Its become an established event in the local Christmas calendar and I think that a visit to the ice rink is now included in many peoples plans for the festive season. It is the only real ice, outdoor rink in a natural setting in the area and skating there is a great fun and healthy activity for people of all ages.'

Opening TimesFriday 21 November 2014 Sunday 4 January 2015 (closed Christmas Day).

Tunbridge Wells at Christmas

RTW_Xmas

Main skating sessions last for one hour including time to fit your skates, expect to have approximately 45 minutes on the ice. Parent & Toddler sessions last for 30 minutes.

BookingLast year, peak skating sessions were extremely popular, especially at weekends and during the holiday period, so advance booking is highly recommended.

Ticket PricesAdult tickets from 9.50, Child tickets from 7.00. Concessions, group rates and family tickets are available. Skate hire is included in the ticket price.

Our popular loyalty card enables skaters to build up stamps and exchange for a free skate. Full details on ticket prices can be found at tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com

Photography by David Bartholomew davidbartholomew.co.uk

Supported by

Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased online at tunbridgewellsatchristmas.com or from the Assembly Hall Theatre in person and the Tunbridge Wells Gateway, or call 01892 554645. Group and wheelchair bookings can be made by calling 01892 554173. Once the ice rink is open tickets can be purchased from the on-site box office.

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Cllr Tom DawlingsConservative, Benenden and CranbrookAfter spending most of my career with the Bank of England and commuting on the Central Line, my wife and I decided on making a life change in 2006. We now have a few acres of land and an increasing number of animals in Benenden and I live and work on my smallholding.

'It is some years since a Benenden resident served on the borough council and Benenden & Cranbrook sometimes feel themselves to be the forgotten part of the borough. Part of what motivated me to stand for election to the borough council was to ensure our local concerns were understood the worry about over-development, housing, traffic speeds, the needs of the rural economy and the protection of our beautiful environment. I was also confident that I had the experience to make a positive contribution to the work of the borough council. I have certainly been given a significant committee workload to help me find out about this and very much look forward to the challenge.'

Cllr Don Sloan Conservative, Culverden'It was in the context of my voluntary activities in the community that I was asked if I would like to stand in the May 2014 Tunbridge Wells Borough Council elections as a candidate for Culverden Ward. I was happy to accept the challenge and look forward to responding to your suggestions for improvements to the borough.

'The main issue brought to my attention while canvassing was the poor state of our roads, coupled with concerns over parking and traffic congestion. I shall do whatever I can locally to press KCC for improvements. As a member of the

New Members for Tunbridge Wells borough

TWBC Planning Committee I shall also make every effort to ensure that all plans for development take account of these issues and address environmental factors. Safety of children and traffic congestion near schools need special consideration.

'There are a number of exciting plans being considered by our borough council including community hubs, more gallery space and improvements to Fiveways, Royal Tunbridge Wells. Leisure facilities and cultural amenities are vital for the life of any community, and I want to see more cultural attractions to encourage tourism, promote local businesses and make the borough an even better place in which to live. I look forward to working with you to this end.'

Cllr Nasir JamilConservative, St Johns 'I am very thankful to the residents of St Johns ward for trusting my enthusiasm and hard work and selecting me as their representative; it is of course a great privilege and honour for me.

'I strongly believe in community service and helping people to create a safer, stronger and prosperous society, and to put this passion into action I joined Southborough Town Council after being elected as a councillor in 2007. I have now taken this to the next level by getting elected as a borough councillor to represent St Johns.

'I am passionate about finding a solution for two very important issues: road safety and traffic congestion, both of which are affecting people's lives. I like to get involved and will be an active part of the team in the future. As a father of a young daughter who is going to school next

year, I am very much concerned about the safety of our children who walk to their schools. I am a campaigner for imposing speed restrictions near schools.

'I am also keen to work hard to make sure Tunbridge Wells is an attractive town for entrepreneurs and businesses to create job opportunities and help keep our young population in the town instead of moving out.

'I am looking forward to meeting new challenges over the four years ahead and to working with a great team at the town hall to overcome them.'

Cllr Graham Munn Labour, Southborough and High Brooms'I wish to thank everyone in Southborough and High Brooms who voted for me to join my fellow Labour Councillors, Di Hill and Alain Lewis. As a Southborough Town Councillor for three years I know that I have a lot to learn about being a borough councillor.

Cllr Nasir Jamil

Cllr Nathan Gray Cllr Tom Dawlings

Cllr Don Sloan

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New Members for Tunbridge Wells borough

Cllr Tom Dawlings

Cllr Don Sloan

'Not being a member of the ruling political party on the borough council I will question what I am not sure about and oppose what I think is wrong for local people, or just plain wrong.

'I grew up in Sussex and worked in a high street bank and other private sector organisations before marrying and having children. The majority of my working life was spent elsewhere as a probation officer and domestic violence worker, followed by voluntary work here in Tunbridge Wells when I retired.

'I am used to involvement with other people's problems and will do my best for people who ask me to help, though I never promise the impossible.'

(Photo not available)

Cllr Nathan GrayConservative, Hawkhurst and Sandhurst 'I am the newly-elected Conservative Councillor for Hawkhurst and Sandhurst, an area which I have spent over 18 years living in, so I am incredibly proud to represent my home ward. At the age of 25 it makes me the youngest Councillor on Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. I work as an Energy Procurement Consultant which I thoroughly enjoy, and l have a very active life outside of council duties. I am a keen sportsman and like being outdoors.

'For me, being a Councillor is a great opportunity and although my term is in its infancy, it has already proved to be challenging, but nevertheless I am enjoying it immensely. My aim is to be the best councillor that I can and to provide residents in Hawkhurst and Sandhurst with an active councillor, and one who will be able to deliver for the area.

'I am very much looking forward to the next four years and the journey that lies ahead.'

ESCALATE YOUR BUSINESS Residents running small businesses are being encouraged by Tunbridge Wells Borough Council to take advantage of Escalate an interest-free loan scheme designed to help companies expand and provide additional job opportunities. Some 5.5million of Escalate funding is available from the governments regional growth fund channelled through Kent County Council to businesses in Tunbridge Wells.

The Escalate fund has already been accessed by Pembury-based company The Imaging Centre to buy new equipment. Owner of the family-run, greetings cards specialist printing firm, Bob Short, said With the Escalate loan we have been able to install the new wrapping line much earlier than anticipated. We have employed two new staff to help with the increase in work the line will produce.'

The interest-free loans from the Escalate fund can be used for purposes ranging from acquiring assets to wage costs for new permanent employees. There is free pre-application support available from nominated business support agencies. Look out for Escalate workshops for potential applicants taking place across West Kent. The next one is on Friday 3 October 2014 at Brands Hatch Thistle Hotel, 811am.

For further information contact Hem Amin, Business Liaison Officer e-mail business@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or telephone 01892 554272.

Working in partnership

disabledgo.com

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NORTH FARM Its business as usualDavid Brazier, KCC's Cabinet Member for Environment & Transport, said that North Farm remains fully open for business and access will be available at all times.On 14 July, local MP Greg Clark and representatives from Kent County Council and Tunbridge Wells Borough Council and construction company Lafarge Tarmac marked the start of work on the 8m improvement scheme for the North Farm Industrial Estate.

Greg Clark MP and David Jukes the Leader of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council said that this was a momentous day for the borough and with the A21 dualling starting soon means we can look forward to happier days on our local roads.

North Farm is a major contributor to the economic success of Tunbridge Wells and the borough as a whole. As well as the big retail brands and car

showrooms there are over 120 smaller businesses, employing over 900 people directly at North Farm.

In recent years this success has caused difficulties because the main access from the A21 along Longfield Road has struggled to cope and there is severe congestion at busy

times. Something had to be done.

Working with the borough council, Kent County Council came up with a proposal to make the road a dual carriageway and provide roundabout junctions to replace the traffic signals. The

scheme will also provide a shared footway and cycleway with pedestrian crossings. Drainage and street lighting will also be improved.

The scheme will be completed in May 2015. The main objectives are to build the road safely and minimise disruption and inconvenience to North Farm and its customers. Two-way traffic will be retained during the working day. No work is planned at weekends unless it helps deliver the scheme early.

Working in partnership, funding for the scheme has been secured from the Department for Transport (3.5m), the developer of Knights Park where 550 new homes are being built is contributing 3m, with the remainder of the cost being provided by the county council. Major retail landowners have dedicated land required for the scheme.

GREAT LODGERETAIL PARK

FOUNTAINS RETAIL PARK

COLEBROOK INDUSTRIAL ESTATE

TUNBRIDGE WELLS SHOPPING PARK

LAMBERTS WOOD

ROBINGATE WOOD

RAM WOOD

PROPOSED DUAL CARRIAGEWAY

PROPOSED DUAL CARRIAGEWAY

NEW FREE FLOWING GYRATORY TO REPLACE SIGNAL

CONTROLLED JUNCTION

PROPOSED DUAL CARRIAGEWAY

SEGREGATED LANE FOR A21 TRAFFIC

TIE-IN THE EXISTING A21 ROUNDABOUT

NEW ROUNDABOUTS TO REPLACE JUNCTIONS

Contact: The visitor centre in the site office at Knights Park or call the office on 0800 160 1005.E-mail: longfield.feedback@lafargetarmac.com Alternatively, call Kent County Council Contact Centre on 03000 418181.

N

No work will take place on the road surface

between 20 November and 11 January

during the important Christmas and New Year trading period.

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Sites for developmentAs set out in the last edition of Local, were preparing an amended version of the Site Allocations Development Plan Document (DPD) that we consulted on last year. This is a plan that identifies key sites for development throughout the borough for the period to 2026. While weve been doing this work, there have been changes to the planning system and planning guidance nationally and a number of other councils have been

challenged on the approach theyve taken in preparing their development plans. Weve been following developments in other areas closely to see if we need to amend our approach to ensure that the work were doing is fully up-to-date and meets the latest national guidance.

Well publish a further update on the Site Allocations DPD in Local magazine this winter. If you have any questions or would like to be included on our database of interested people and organisations, then please e-mail planning.policy@tunbridgewells.gov.uk.

Activity space for hire in the heart of Royal Tunbridge Wells Camden CentreGreat value venue hire at the Camden Centre, Market Square, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 2SWOpen from 8.30am until 10pm, Monday SaturdayWe have six different sized rooms available to hire in the heart of the community, from just 13 per hour. Our rooms are adaptable, comfortable and are ideal spaces in which to meet. The rooms are all wireless enabled, and equipment can be hired at a reasonable cost. There is no minimum booking, you can book for one hour or several days. We can also make block bookings if you are going to be needing our space on a regular basis.

Call in at the Camden Centre to see what we can offer, or contact the centre staff. For more details see tunbridgewells.gov.uk/camdencentre.

Our new Event Planning Toolkit provides you with step-by-step guidance to holding an event in the borough. And our handy Can Do Guide covers all you need to consider when planning an event, your responsibility as an event organiser along with any permissions, licences and insurance you may need.

If you want to hold an event in Tunbridge Wells borough, you now apply online using the Event Planning Toolkit. Remember to do so at least 12 weeks before your event takes place.

Start applying here: tunbridgewells.gov.uk/eventplanning

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Kent Healthy Business AwardsAre your vending machines full of unhealthy snacks?

Do you often go without your lunch break?

Do you wish there were more opportunities to be happy and healthy in the workplace?

Or do you own a business that would benefit from advice and support on matters such as health and safety, reducing sickness absence, building effective relationships, attendance management, mental health and wellbeing?

If the answer is yes, you or your employer may want to consider registering for the Kent Healthy Business Award Scheme.

Workplace health and wellbeing programmes can increase employee job satisfaction and reduce staff turnover by 1025 per cent.

Linked to a nationally-recognised scheme, the Kent Healthy Business Awards are Kent County Councils free self-assessment tool that will help employers to recognise their people, services and skills. It gives small to medium sized employers (SMEs) access to:

A local health at work advisor Expertise in health and wellbeing

programmes

Free resources to develop a healthier workplace

An advisor from Tunbridge Wells Borough Council can work with employers to attain one of the three levels: Commitment, Achievement or Excellence, across nine themes:

Leadership Attendance management Health and safety

Mental health and wellbeing Smoking related ill-health Physical activity Healthy eating Alcohol and substance misuse Environment

Whats the benefit?For employees healthier work places with opportunities to live well, where staff are valued and service is recognised.

For employers A free occupational health service to SMEs and at the end of 2014 a 500 tax exemption per employee for any health intervention that is recommended by either this service or another occupational service. Its worth finding out more!

Visit kent.gov.uk/business/grow-your-business/business-awards-and-events/kent-healthy-business-awards

E-mail kenthealthybusiness@kent.gov.uk

A golden tea danceFrom balloons to table decorations everything was golden when Voluntary Action Within Kent (VAWK) celebrated 50 years of serving the community with a themed tea dance at the Camden Centre in July. Gold outfits and accessories were the order of the day and a cream tea was enjoyed by those attending. Over 50 guests joined in the celebration and took to the floor for a medley of dance favourites that even included some disco tunes to encourage the less confident dancers to have a whirl. As always for the VAWK tea dances, music was provided by organist Chris Mannion.

The Camden Centre has the perfect floor for dancing on said Ann Claudt, a regular at the tea dances.

You dont have to be able to dance to enjoy this very social get-together; everyone is welcome, especially older people, and you dont need a partner or companion youll soon find one!

Tea dances are taking place at the Camden Centre from 24.30pm on Thursday 25 September, Thursday 23 October and Thursday 27 November. They are free to attend, so come along and have fun!

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With the autumn upon us it's time to tidy up the garden for winter. Dont forget to use your brown bin for all your garden waste. Remember any food waste can also go into the brown bin; in fact its better going in the brown bin than the green one!

Why? It gives you the opportunity to recycle

more of your waste from the doorstep

It reduces the odour caused by rotting food waste in your kitchen bin

Your treated food and garden waste will be used by farmers to improve soil quality

Since the introduction of the brown bin in 2002 our green bin waste has reduced from over 35,500 tonnes to 25,200 tonnes. Thank you to everyone who recycles, but we need more of your garden and food waste so that we can achieve our target to recycle and compost at least 50% of all waste by 2020.

Please dont use plastic bags to wrap food waste nor the 'compostable' corn starch bags. Newspaper or kitchen towel is fine to wrap food waste or paper bags can be used. For more information visit our website at tunbridgewells.gov.uk or call 01892 526121.

We need YOUR garden and food waste

NO THANKS Tree trunks/large branches

Timber/fence panels

Soil/turf or rubble

Cat litter; cat or dog faeces

Japanese knotweed

Cooking oil, milk or other liquids

Plastic bags, plant pots, garden furniture or children's toys

YES PLEASE

Tunbridge Wells Farmers Market would like your feedbackDo you shop at the market?Love the market and wouldnt miss one?Or maybe you dont, so please tell us whyWe would welcome your views on what makes your ideal shopping experience. A short online survey is available on our website tunbridgewells.gov.uk/farmersmarketfeedback. If you dont have access to the internet, we can send a survey out to you, call the Farmers Market on 01892 554244. Alternatively, theyll be available at the next market.

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DRAFT SUMMARY STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS FOR 2013/14Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has the second lowest Council Tax in Kent and the 19th lowest General Expenses in the country. The Audit Commission, in its 2012/13 Audit Findings Report, said that 'The Council is prioritising its resources within tighter budgets, by achieving cost reductions and by improving efficiency and productivity'. It concludes that the Council has 'put in place proper arrangements to secure economy, efficiency and effectiveness in its use of resources'. This robust financial management has continued throughout 2013/14 as can be seen below.

Revenue Outturn for 2013/14 with comparator yearsThe full statement of accounts for 2013/14 is currently being audited and will be approved in September. However, the draft accounts are available (see website under Council/Finance and Budgets) and show that our net cost of services for the year was 13.4 million. This was on budget and was fully financed from council tax, grants and investment income.

The table below shows that the net cost of providing your services decreased by 701,000 between 2012/13 and 2013/14. However, if you add inflation to the 2012/13 cost and compare with the 2013/14 actual outturn, there was a real saving of 955,000. These efficiencies are forecast into 2014/15, where a further reduction in costs of 169,000, excluding inflation, is budgeted.

So far, these savings have been achieved without compromising services to the public. Contracts have been re-tendered, partnership agreements have been entered into, efficiencies have been made and assets used to better effect. We are constantly pursuing productivity and efficiency, whilst maintaining service innovation.

This is against a backdrop of declining government grants and reduced interest available from investing reserves. The table shows central government grants increasing by 569,000 in 2013/14, but this was to partially fund government transferring responsibility for providing Council Tax Benefits to the Council. Council Tax was increased in the year by 1.9% to assist in providing for the shortfall. It can be seen that other grants have increased by 755,000 in 2013/14, but these are non-recurring grants provided to us specifically to assist in implementing 'New Burdens' imposed by government and for delivering new housing in the borough.

Income & Expenditure 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15Actual Actual Budget

Directorates 000s 000s 000sChief Executive 3,200 3,275 4,156

Change & Communities 2,665 2,613 2,105Development & Environment 8,258 7,534 6,992Net Cost of Services 14,123 13,422 13,253Net Interest Receivable (679) (439) (350)Central Government Grants (4,477) (5,046) (4,555)Other Grants (1,892) (2,647) (2,143)Council Tax Income (6,855) (6,351) (6,573)

Transfers to/from Reserves (2,898) 960 368

Asset Depreciation/Impairment Adjustments

2,678 101 0

Fully Financed 0 0 0

The 2014/15 budget shows a further fall in government funding of 995,000, so we are again trying hard to collect the views of the people of the borough so that priorities for where to retain services or perhaps release services are clearly understood.

Nearly

300 people

engaged in our

healthy living

services

We received and dealt with

2,200 planning applications

during 201314

14

Capital Expenditure for 2013/14We spent 3.1 million on new capital investments in the year. This was over a wide range of projects as can be seen below. This has mainly been funded by the disposal of surplus assets, which in total raised 3.3 million in the year. 533,000 was spent on disabled facilities grants, all of which were funded by a government grant, as we are obliged to provide these grants based upon need.

Tunbridge Wells won a series of awards at the Britain in Bloom and regional Bloom competitions which included receiving gold for Dunorlan Park

Capital Expenditure 2013/14000s

New Cremators 855 Disabled Facilities Grants 533 Hawkenbury Pavilion 379 Sports Centre Tennis Court Lighting 192 Community and Heritage Grants 188 Museum Redevelopment 142 IT Systems - New and Upgraded 136 Housing Loans 128 Other Small Projects 549 Total Capital Investment 3,102

Financed By:Sale of Surplus Assets 1,946 Government Grants 533 External and Developer Contributions 623 Total Financing 3,102

We successfully attracted government funding to support local business growth through the Escalate 0% loan scheme

We do have a very strong asset base as is shown on the Balance Sheet.

Balance Sheet 2013/14000s

Council Assets 94,740Cash & Cash Equivalents 14,020Investments Net of Borrowing 11,233Money Owed to the Council 6,356Money Owed by the Council (9,863)Capital Grants Receipts in Advance (1,522)Long Term Pension Liability (45,962)Net Assets 69,002Usable Reserves 19,039Unusable Reserves 49,963Total Reserves 69,002

We have 95 million of property, plant and equipment, heritage and software assets that can be utilised. The challenge is to use them to their very best effect in delivering your services. We also have 19 million in reserves that were largely created when we sold our housing stock to the Town and Country Housing Group. These are either invested, the interest supporting the revenue budget, or are put to use creating new capital assets or delivering new initiatives, rather than just supporting existing services until they run out.

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Kent County Council 2.87

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council

42p

Kent Police & Crime

Commissioner 39p

Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue

Authority 18pParishes

11p

Cost per day of Band D property is 3.97:

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council collects Council Tax on behalf of Kent County Council, Kent Police & Crime Commissioner, Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority and the Parishes in addition to the amount it collects for itself. An average property in the borough paid 1,450.98 for the year 2013/14 broken down as follows:

Band D breakdown

000s %usageTunbridge Wells Borough Council 152.63 10%Kent Police & Crime Commissioner 141.47 10%Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority

67.95 5%

Parishes 41.15 3%Kent County Council 1,047.78 72%Total 1,450.98 100%

So, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council gets only 42p per day of the Council Tax you pay and for this we provide many, many services, some of which you may be aware of and some you might not.

Council Tax and Business Rates Collection

Supporting Homeless People

Planning Services

Environmental Protection & Taxi Licensing

Parks & Woodlands

Street Cleaning

Sustainability

Public Toilets

Here's how we spend some of your 42p a day

Bin Collections

5p

4p

4p

3p

3p

2p

1p

1p

16

The accounts below show that we billed for over 61 million in the year and had to make provision for only 383,000 not to be recovered. This shows that we recover well over 99% of the Council Tax due. Our Revenues and Benefits team work incredibly hard to achieve this recovery rate and pursue all debts wherever possible.

Collection Fund 2013/14000s

Balance 1 April 2013 527Income from Council Tax 61,222Bad & Doubtful Debts Provision (383)Total Income Available 61,366Apportionment of Council TaxKent County Council (44,111)Kent Police & Crime Commissioner (5,956)Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority

(2,860)

Tunbridge Wells Borough Council (8,156)Total Paid (61,083)Balance 31 March 2014 283

So, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council gets only 42p per day of the Council Tax you pay and for this we provide many, many services, some of which you may be aware of and some you might not.

The

Assembly Hall

Theatre saw around

140,000 people walk

through their doors

during 201314 to

attend shows and

events

28,000 people got into the Christmas spirit and visited the Christmas chalets and open air ice rink in Calverley Grounds

Community Grants & Centres

Economic Development

Community Safety & CCTV

Council support for

the theatre is 159,370

In 2013/14 government changed the way in which Business Rates are administered. The council used to collect all Business Rates on behalf of the government and pay to them whatever we could recover. Now, however, 50% of Business Rates recovered go to government, 34% is paid as a tariff to fund other parts of the country and the remainder is split between the council, Kent County Council and Kent and Medway Fire and Rescue Authority. The 50% retained by the local authorities has been offset by reductions in central grants provided. The theoretical effect of this change is to move Business Rates risks and rewards to local authorities, but at this stage it is very early to determine the full impact on future years budgets.

1p

1p

1p

Help set the budget for 2015/16Every year we aim to set a balanced budget that reflects the services you want, whilst fulfilling our statutory obligations. The austerity programme being rolled out across the country has already delivered deep cuts to local government funding and this is likely to continue. We need your help to set the priorities for our discretionary services, so please e-mail your views to accounts@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or write to:

Jane Fineman, Financial Services Manager Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Town Hall Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1RS

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Overview and ScrutinyHave you ever wondered how you can get the council to look at a local issue that is concerning you?Do you have an idea that you think the council should consider?The Overview and Scrutiny Committee may be able to help. The Committee try to provide a means of getting issues of local concern considered by your local council.

Two years ago, Local magazine spoke to Councillor Catherine Mayhew as the new Chairman of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee. Since that time, the committee have been very busy considering issues put forward by residents, backbench councillors and Full Council, as well as questioning Cabinet members on whether they have delivered what they

set out to achieve. In the last year, the committee has looked at aircraft noise, the future of Crowborough Birthing Centre, in addition to running a successful campaign

around dog fouling, which has since been taken up by a number of parish/town councils. The committee recognises that they cant

answer every problem but if you let them know your concerns, they can try to assist.

Councillor Catherine Mayhew added that as a council We want to engage with residents more so that we know what the council should be doing or is failing to do. We would like to hear from residents on what those issues are as well as getting involved with future issues

such as considering how many councillors the council should have.'

To get in touch with Overview and Scrutiny, please contact Neil White, Scrutiny and Performance Officer by e-mail neil.white@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or writing to: Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, Town Hall, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN1 1RS.

Weight for it!

Please note sessions will not take place during half term.

Booking is essential. If you have a BMI of 28 or more contact the Health team today, e-mail health@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or call 01892 554201.

For more details visit our website tunbridgewells.gov.uk/choosinghealth or follow us on Twitter @TWBC_Community.

Where WhenSt Philips Church, Main Hall, Birken Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN2 3TE

Tuesdays starting 30 September 2014 for 10 weeks, 6.30 8pm

Royal British Legion Club, Unity Hall, High Street, Hawkhurst TN18 4AG

Wednesdays starting 1 October 2014 for 10 weeks, 1 2.30pm

Gateway, 8 Grosvenor Road, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN1 2AB

Thursdays starting 2 October 2014 for 10 weeks, 12noon 1pm

Free weight loss group coming to a venue near you. Help and advice available from qualified and experienced professionals.

What makes a Green Flag fly?The highest standards, clean, sustainable...

and also

great play areasa boating lake

a friendly dragonnature trails

peaceful spaces

TWBC is proud to announce that once again

Dunorlan Park, Woodbury Park Cemetery and The Grove

have each been awarded a Green Flag, making them among the best parks and

open spaces in the country.

Just three of the beautiful open spaces and parks managed by TWBC.

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You're portfolio holder for Communities and Wellbeing, how are you enjoying your role?Oh, very much. It is a very broad area to cover both throughout the borough and with my areas of responsibility and Im looking forward to the year ahead.

What are your areas of responsibility?These include working with the parishes, disability groups, Health and Wellbeing Board, healthy eating and exercise programmes. (I am doing the Weight for It programme myself what better way to see how it works!) Housing is also part of my portfolio. This includes homelessness, a real concern of mine, and the development of affordable housing in the borough. I am also the Cabinet lead for the Love Where We Live Awards. I said my remit was broad!

What do you hope to achieve during your first year?In reality I hope to get a good understanding of the role and shadow as many projects as possible.

Ive already thrown myself into the Love Where We Live Awards encouraging people to nominate was the easy bit picking the finalists was a lot harder than I ever imagined, but my lips are sealed until the awards evening in a few weeks!

The health of our borough is extremely important and I hope to get the word out to all our communities about the programmes that are available The Weight For It project and Move Eat Grow (a weight loss programme for people with learning disabilities), hopefully using my personal experience with regard to the above programmes.

Managing the pressures surrounding homelessness and finding suitable temporary housing for those that need it is extremely important. I will be backing the development of more affordable housing in the borough and supporting individuals to live more independently in their homes through Disabled Facilities Grants.

Im looking forward to working with parish and town councils more and in particular, Cranbrook, Southborough and Paddock Wood to develop their community facilities over the coming year.

We have heard about your new role, but tell us a bit about you... What made you decide to stand as a councillor?I am a local person. Fifth generation of a local family.

I have worked for 30 plus years in the care industry. I support people with a learning disability in a small care home and also through a small community support agency in Tunbridge Wells, supporting 27 people for various amounts of time. A lot of my life has revolved around my work.

I had always wanted to be a councillor. It was in my master plan to do something about it when I was 60, thinking that the retirement age would be at this time. However, I was approached at the tender age of 55 to stand in my beloved Sherwood. I had been involved in the community around the steering group and the running of the TN2 Community Centre. I was someone that was recognised I guess. I had 24 hours to make up my mind. It was not a difficult decision. However, it would mean not working so much for my business and I therefore needed the support of my staff team to do this.

Local magazine talks to Lynne Weatherly, councillor in Sherwood for three years and now Cabinets newest member...

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Give a little, get a lot! It is a fact now that volunteering is good for your health. Many recent studies have shown that volunteering has positive benefits to your physical and mental wellbeing. This means that the time you give not only helps the community but also helps you!So its great news that there are lots of fantastic volunteering opportunities in Tunbridge Wells!

Many locals dont even know it is there, but Grosvenor and Hilbert Park is just a 15 minute walk from the town centre, nestled between High Brooms, St James', and

Sherwood. And if you are looking to learn new skills, meet people, pursue personal interests, hobbies, gain experience or just have some fun then you need look no further.

Here are some of the opportunities available:

Practical conservation and horticultural tasks every Thursday and one Saturday a month

Ongoing wildlife surveys Historical research

projects Assisting with family

events and outdoor educational activities

Photography and marketing

Orchard managementIf you are interested in any

of these opportunities or would like more information, please get in touch with the Community Engagement Officer, Cally Fiddimore, e-mail cally.fiddimore@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or call 07917 643961.

Free Family Fun!Kent High Weald Partnership has been running midweek conservation days for many years, including their popular Wednesday and Thursday programme. They also put on events, particularly during the school holidays, aimed at getting families and children more involved in the outdoors.

You may have noticed that they are now starting to

combine these, by providing a programme of 'Wildlife Weekenders' for families on the first Saturday of every month. At the start of March they had toddlers out in their wellies in the mud at Sherwood Lake helping to create new glades, and in July families snipping back the overgrown vegetation with loppers at Barnetts Wood Local Nature Reserve. Why not be a part of their plans this autumn!

These 'Wild Child Workouts' give families an

opportunity to get out in the fresh air, learning more about their local area and wildlife. Sometimes this can be a way of engaging children who think walks in the countryside are 'boring', by getting stuck into a structured activity together with a group and having some fun, and quite possibly a big bonfire!

Tea, coffee, squash and biscuits are provided, and you are welcome to dip in or out, spending as much or as little time as you like.

Website: khwp.org.uk Telephone: 01580 212972

Looking for volunteer opportunities in other parts of Tunbridge Wells and the wider borough?

Why not check out khwp.org.uk for lots more on offer.

There will also be an ongoing position available at the park

for a part-time trainee ranger. This is an unpaid position but

training and expenses are provided. An ideal

role for students or graduates looking for that vital experience and training in the

environmental sector.

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Road safety a high priority for Tunbridge WellsThis year, Tunbridge Wells Borough Council has adopted Road Safety as one of five priorities for the borough. The Community Safety Unit at TWBC has taken up the challenge and is working in partnership with TWITA (Tunbridge Wells Is Traffic Aware), Kent Fire and Rescue Service, Kent Police, KCC Wardens and other partner agencies to promote, educate and engage with road users.

Part of the partnership plan relates to educating young people of all ages who seem to have little or no perception of the dangers faced near roads or simply

how to cross a road safely, especially whilst using mobile phones or listening to music with headphones.

The partnership is planning to roll out a comprehensive educational campaign across the boroughs primary schools to ensure that all children are taught how to cross the road and how to stay safe if riding a bike.

The first stage has commenced with a pilot in two schools, Temple Grove Academy and Broadwater Down Primary School. Pupils were challenged to produce a poster aimed at making cyclists more road aware whilst riding their bikes.

The CSU Manager, Steve Whitehead, said, 'We were delighted with the imagination and talent the students showed. Every pupil in Key Stage 2 entered the competition so narrowing them down to just three winners was almost impossible for the judges.'

The three winners who came from Temple Grove Academy were presented

with a set of bike lights and every pupil that entered was awarded a keyring reflective tag to attach to their winter jackets next term.

As the quality of the entries was so high the Community Safety Unit will be using some of them to promote road safety across the borough.

One poster was so good that the partnership elected to have it printed on to a metal sign and displayed outside the school.

Calling all parentsThe Community Safety Partnership would like to invite any local schools who have not yet taken part in the FREE Road Safety programme to contact them. E-mail Stephen.whitehead@tunbridgewells.gov.uk or telephone 01892 554224.

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In the year that commemorates 100 years since the beginning of the First World War, two young musicians James Beeny and Gina George have written a contemporary and inspiring musical drama called The Dreamers based on a little known First World War hero from Kent.

As part of the six-piece band Virgin Soldiers, 28 year old James and 24 year old fellow band member Gina have supported Keane, McFly, Toploader and Joan Armatrading and have amassed huge online support. In 2013 they turned their attention to writing a musical about David 'Reggie' Salomons, heir to the Salomons Estate, who led his regiment to Gallipoli in 1915.

Reggie was appointed to his fathers cadet detachment in Southborough and later went on to join the military detachment, Third Company, one of Englands finest units. Named after the poem by First World War Kent poet Siegfried Sassoon, The Dreamers tells the tragic story of how Reggie died with 155 of his men, mostly from the local area, just after his 30th birthday.

The letter written by his commanding officer Major Ruston to Reggies father, telling him of his sons heroism, was recently found in the pages of a book in a junk shop in Hastings.

The Dreamers will be performed live by Virgin Soldiers and a cast of 25 talented young men and women from all over Kent and Sussex. They will be supported by large video screens that will feature the celebrity narrators, including actor Christopher Beeny, who will tell the story of Reggie and his men and the events that led to the Great War.

assemblyhalltheatre.co.uk Box office 01892 530613

OCTOBERThu 2 Oct Stones in His PocketsFri 3 Oct Purple ZeppelinSat 4 Oct Thank You for the MusicSun 5 Oct RTWSOSun 5 Oct Sir Chris BoningtonWed 8 Oct Jasper Carrott Stand Up & RockThu 9 Oct Mnozil Brass Fri 10 Oct Seth LakemanSat 11 Oct A Night of ELOThu 16 Sat 18 Oct The DreamersSun 19 Oct Joe BrownTue 21 Oct John MayallWed 22 Oct Show of Hands with Miranda SykesThu 23 Oct Marty WildeFri 24 Oct Shane FilanSat 25 Oct Magic of MotownSun 26 Oct The Billy Fury StoryMon 27 Oct The Lindisfarne StoryTue 28 Oct Dave GormanWed 29 Oct 10ccThu 30 Oct Charlie Landsborough

NOVEMBERSat 1 Nov Alan DaviesSun 2 Nov RTWSOSun 2 Nov Chas & Dave

Tue 4 Sat 8 Nov Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor DreamcoatSun 9 Nov RTWCSSun 9 Nov Frank SkinnerTue 11 Nov Jim DavidsonWed 12 Nov UB40 RETURNS ONLYFri 14 Nov No Jacket RequiredSat 15 Nov Fascinating Ada

Assembly Hall Theatre

A date for the diaryLate afternoon of 13 November 2014 the

Christmas Lights in Royal Tunbridge Wells will be switched on. Check out our website nearer the time for more details.

Sun 16 Nov McAllister-Brown Dance SchoolTue 18 Wed 19 Nov Dinosaur ZooThu 20 Nov Madama ButteflyFri 21 Nov Omid DjaliliSat 22 Nov Joan ArmatradingTue 25 Sat 29 Nov TWODS: The Merry WidowSun 30 Nov The Stylistics and Odyssey

DECEMBERWed 3 Dec Swan LakeThu 4 Dec Beyond the Barricade Fri 5 Dec 5, 4, 3, 2, 1It's The ManfredsSat 6 Dec Thatll Be The Day Christmas ShowSun 7 Dec RTWSOFri 12 Dec Sun 4 Jan Peter PanWed 17 Dec Jimmy CarrFri 19 Dec John Cleese

JANUARYFri 16 Jan Magical Mozart by CandlelightSun 18 Jan Nils LofgrenFri 23 Sat 24 Jan Ross NobleMon 26 Sat 31 Jan Blood Brothers

FEBRUARYSun 1 Feb RTWSOWed 4 Thu 5 Feb OctonautsFri 6 Feb JethroSat 7 Sun 8 Feb Cirque BerserkWed 11 Feb Paul CarrackFri 13 Feb Sing-along-a-Sound of MusicSat 14 Feb The King is BackWed 25 Feb Fairport ConventionFri 27 Feb Sensational 60s Experience

The Farmers Market is currently recruiting new stalls. If you know someone, or have always been interested in having a stall please get in touch and find out more

farmersmarket@tunbridgewells.gov.uk

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We know that many residents are worried about people coming to their door at Halloween. You do not have to answer the door to them and you can make that clear by cutting out and displaying this poster in your window or door.

If people call and their behaviour worries you, let a neighbour or your Neighbourhood Watch contact know. Call 101 to report a crime and 999 in an emergency. For further information on community safety, or advice on crime prevention, contact the Community Safety Unit on 01892 526121.

I will not open my door to you

Sorry, no trick or treat