I’ve just received the following through from WBC regarding closures on the Basingstoke canal:

From Monday 23 April 2012, the pedestrian footbridge over the Basingstoke Canal in Woking Town Centre and a small section of the canal towpath will be closed and short diversions put in place until early 2013.

Pedestrians and cyclists wishing to access the town centre and The Lightbox are advised to follow the diversion signage in place around the construction site and nearby pedestrian crossings.

The Lightbox will be open as normal, including the main front entrance, which visitors can access via the Victoria Way pedestrian crossing next to the Civic Offices.

Diversions from the Basingstoke Canal towpath to Woking Town Centre will be as follows:

• ·         When approaching the construction site (surrounded by yellow hoardings), pedestrians and cyclists travelling from Knaphill and St Johns along the Basingstoke Canal Towpath should leave the towpath just before the hoardings by turning left into a private road, marked by a blue fingerpost, towards Brewery Road.

• ·         When travelling from Sheerwater and Maybury along the Basingstoke Canal Towpath, pedestrians and cyclists should leave the towpath as normal at the canal exit leading on to Chobham Road.

• ·         Pedestrians and cyclists wishing to rejoin the canal towpath (towards St Johns and Knaphill) should turn right at the Chobham Road exit towards the mini roundabout and junction with Brewery Road, and follow the diversions along Brewery Road.

Speaking about the closures, Douglas Spinks, Deputy Chief Executive at Woking Borough Council, said: “The closures are required to start the construction works for the new Bedser Bridge, which is required because the existing footbridge has reached the end of its life and it does not meet current Equality Act and British Standard requirements.

“We have been working closely with the appointed contractor, Willmott Dixon, and WWF-UK to coordinate the works and map out suitable diversions. We are keen to minimise disruption for both residents and visitors to the town and would like to apologise for any inconvenience as a result of these works.”

The new pedestrian bridge, to be named Bedser Bridge in recognition of local Horsell cricketing heroes, Eric and Sir Alec Bedser, will allow access to and from Woking Town Centre, Brewery Road Car Park and WWF-UK’s new Living Planet Centre.

For more information about the diversion, including a map, please visit www.woking.gov.uk or call 01483 755855.

Yes it’s true, High Street bank HSBC is to close its doors to Knaphill village on 6th July at 3.30pm.

The bank is currently only open for 3 days per week and no reason has been given for the closure although speculation will abound due to the proximity of the bank to 15 High Street where Sainsbury’s want to build a store… It would certainly be a huge loss to the village should the buildings be demolished, losing valuable character.

The branch managaer has already come in for some flack, as noted by one resident, he has been told in no uncertain terms how the customers feel with some voting with their feet and moving accounts elsewhere.

There are those both in the village and further afield that are concerned about the level of takeaways appearing in their village setting. The latest opening is the Charcoal Grill in the High Street which by all accounts offers some great food but this is just the latest in a considerable line, earning Knaphill the moniker of ‘takeaway capital of Surrey’. The most recent application for change of use to class A5 is at the bottom of Anchor Hill and the question that has been on everybody’s lips is – do we need another one? Indeed, can we sustain one?!

As the competition between takeaways heats up, more advertising is to be found throughout; flyers and leaflets regularly drop through letterboxes and out of papers and one establishment has taken the opportunity to erect a fairly big banner from the top of the building in the High Street.

The question of litter will inevitably be discussed at length. I, personally, have not noticed it being a huge problem although you do notice occasional wrappers in the streets and other people will probably say it’s a huge issue. If it becomes apparent that littering is on the increase then we should be rightly concerned – it attracts all sorts of unwanted attention from rodents and foxes, not to mention that it is a blight to the appearance of the village.

There are also those who argue that any business is good for the area. Empty shops or stores are of no use to anyone so filling it with a takeaway should be welcomed. Should it? I wonder what people would say if we had a glut of estate agents, accountants, restuarants or even boutique shops? High levels of any store type result in a particular response from the residents.

To this end, we have ‘done a bit of research’ on how other villages and towns have tackled the excess and we found that we are far from alone in wondering if there should be limits imposed by planning for any business type in a certain area. Currently there are none and those in WBC who have been approached in the past have said that it simply isn’t possible. Well, actually, it is and it’s been done. It is problematic and it can be difficult to do so I can only think that it has fallen into the ‘too hard’ pile before. After some communication between the KRA, councillors and council, we have raised a considerable amount of interest and been given permission to raise the question at the next full council meeting.

Whatever the outcome of the meeting, we will of course let you know and in the meantime get in touch if you have any comments to make on the subject.

Small update – Has anyone else noticed the little signs that are going up on lamp posts around the village. They’re reminders about anti-fouling and the penalties involved, so we know the initiative is underway!

Following on from Dr Fuller’s successful petition regarding dog waste in Knaphill, WBC Executive have created a new Foul Play campaign. In an email from WBC, they say –

“At the meeting of the Executive on 15 March 2012, at which the Petition was considered, the Executive was supportive of the petition and acknowledged that dog fouling was a Borough-wide issue which had a negative impact on pride of place, health and community enjoyment. Councillor Mrs B A Hunwicks, Portfolio Holder for the Environmental Maintenance Contract, announced that a Borough-wide campaign named ‘Foul Play’ would be worked up to tackle and raise awareness of the issue. A pilot of the scheme would be run in Knaphill, with the intention to roll-out a Borough-wide campaign. Councillor Mrs B A Hunwicks highlighted actions taken by the Council in response to the petition, such as improved dog waste facilities at Barton Close and the link path between Cavell Way and Florence Court, Knaphill.

It was noted that the Foul Play initiative would include increasing dog fouling signs and posters and ensuring ongoing awareness. The Executive was informed that a deep clean of Sussex Road, Knaphill would be programmed, and residents would be able to report any area in need of cleaning direct to Serco. The Executive thanked Dr Fuller for attending the meeting and raising the issue of dog fouling. The Executive agreed that Officers would work up in detail, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder, a Borough-wide campaign placing great emphasis upon responsible dog ownership and encouraging increased and more detailed reporting of problems from residents so the Council’s available resources can be used to best effect. It was further agreed that a pilot of the Foul Play campaign would be run in Knaphill.”

Personally I don’t think the village can thank Dr Fuller enough for his efforts in tackling dog mess in the streets so a  heartfelt WELL DONE to him and his wife, Anna.

THE WEST END COMES TO WOKING!  If you are looking for something for the kids to do this Summer then look no further then our West End Musical Summer School this August 20th-24th at the Brookwood Memorial Halls, Woking, Surrey. Learn the moves and the songs from the top West End professionals taught by West End cast members.  Our Summer School is split into 2 groups: AGES 8-12 and 13-21.

AGED 8-14?

Join us for a fun packed 5 days in acting, singing and dance this Summer.

Taking influence from the top West End shows our aim is to have the children grow in confidence, creativity, and talent whilst having lots of fun.  Led by a West End Performer this is not to be missed!  Shows include The Sound Of Music, Shrek, Annie, Oliver, The Wizard Of Oz to name but a few, leading to a presentation on the last day.

 
20th-24th August 2012
10am – 4pm
Brookwood Memorial Halls, Connaught Road, Knaphill, Woking GU24 0AL

£125 Per Person.

This is an amazing chance to work with professionals and build on your talent, confidence, communication skills and creativity. You’ll leave feeling inspired!

Rachel Bingham is the CEO of West End On Demand. Rachel grew up in Woking, Surrey, where she performed in many shows at the Rhoda McGraw with groups such as Woking Youth Theatre and the Karen Clarke Theatre Company. After her studies at Winston Churchill and Woking College Rachel left Woking to train in London at the prestigious Mountview Academy Of Theatre Arts where she trained in Musical Theatre. Since graduating she has worked in many shows such as Les Miserables (West End,) Les Miserables 25th Anniversary Concert (O2 Arena,) The Sound Of Music (West End,) ‘Acorn Antiques: The Musical’ (UK Tour) and Victoria Wood’s Midlife Christmas (BBC.)

 

Rachel says

“Our summer school is great for anyone who wants to improve their confidence, make some friends and develop their talent. Confidence building is a key element in my workshops, I think it is extremely important; even if a career in drama is not something that interests you having confidence and self belief will help you in all aspects of your life. We are accepting young adults aged between 14 and 21 with a range of experience, so it does not matter if you have never done it before. For those that already have a passion for drama, dance and singing this is an incredible opportunity to work with West End cast members on the top West End shows. You will learn the choreography, staging and songs straight from the West End stage and we will work on extracts from a different West End show each day, taught by West End cast members.

 There are talks every day where you can ask the professionals any questions about drama school, working in the West End, touring the Uk, and anything you want to know about the profession. On the last day there will be an opportunity to perform your own song for the West End Panel and get some feedback. This is optional, so don’t panic if you haven’t sung before, but it’s a great chance to try out a new song, or get some audition experience.

So if you would like to work on West End shows with West End cast members we would love you to join us this summer”

For more details see www.westendondemand.com

Last nights AGM saw the departure of Martin Dunham from his position as Chairman after 5 years dedicated service.

In his leaving comments, he thanked all those around him and had some particular words for members of the Committee, wishing us all a prosperous future. He said,

“I’ve found that you can start to stagnate in a role after about 3 years, so after 5 I have decided it’s time to step aside and let a fresh person take the reigns.

We have had a great few years together and in particular the Village Show which has been a huge success so I wish you all the best for the future”

While he has moved on from the Chairmans role, it’s not goodbye to Martin however as he wanted to stay on to help out where he can.

A new Chair

This does, of course, mean we have a vacancy! Any member interested in taking over as Chairperson should get in touch as soon as possible.

In the meantime, we have welcomed John Butler, KRA Treasurer, as temporary Chair. Although work commitments make this a short term arrangement, I’m confident John will perform a great role. All hail the Chairman!

Dr Thomas Fuller, creator of the petition, has updated us and says –

“I was very pleased with the positive response I received at the Council Executive, and they were all very sincere in wanting to tackle the problem. Melanie Whitehand had clearly done a great job in getting the Executive on board and willing to back a campaign to tackle the problem.

There was recognition that the problem across the Borough is now very bad and much more needs to be done to resolve it. Overall, it was great to see the Council listening and taking such positive action.”

His presentation to the council Executive is attached here

Update

As a signatory of the below petition, I recieved the following from WBC today:

“Thank you for submitting a petition to Woking Borough Council in relation to dog waste in Knaphill, received on 21 February 2012. The number of signatures received through the e-petition exceeds the threshold required for a petition to be referred to a meeting of the Executive. The petition will be debated at the next meeting of the Executive, to be held on Thursday, 15 March 2012 at 7.00 p.m. in the Council Chamber of the Civic Offices, Gloucester Square, Woking. Dr Fuller, or his nominee, has been invited to attend the meeting to present the petition. The outcome of the Executive’s consideration will be published following the meeting. Petition information – http://petitions.woking.gov.uk/KnaphillDogWaste/“

So well Dr Fuller, we look forward to hearing the outcome!

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A Knaphill parents group has got to the last straw and set up an anti-fouling campaign to tackle a perceived increase in dog mess in the streets.

A petition has been created online by Dr Thomas Fuller to put pressure on the council to address the problem; Dr Fuller describes the petition –

“Dog waste is a serious problem in Knaphill, particularly around Sussex Road heading to the Lower and Junior schools, and in the walkway between Cavell Way and Brushfield Way. We want the Council to provide better facilities to help our children get to school more safely and to be able to play outdoors in areas which are now becoming out of bounds.

We would like the Council to consider measures such as more dog waste bins. Enforcement signs should be clearly posted in areas where they are not yet visible. Council wardens should patrol these areas more frequently and enforce the legal regulations on dog fouling.”

The aim is at least 100 signatories by the close of the petition on 21st February 2012, which will force a meeting of the council with the group.

Mrs Anna Fuller contacted the KRA –

“We have really done this as a last resort as we are fed up of cleaning dog poo off the children’s shoes, pushchair wheels and generally avoiding all the mess on the pavement on the way to school!

We want to put pressure on the council to provide more disposal facilities for dog-owners, improve signs and raise awareness of this growing problem. We want to make our local area a clean and safe environment for our children walking to school and playing outside.”

For those wanting to support the petition, more information and the petition itself can be found via this link – http://petitions.woking.gov.uk/KnaphillDogWaste/

9/7/12 The hosepipe ban has now been lifted.

Veolia Central water company has announced that there will be a hosepipe ban in effect from 5th April 2012; this means that you cannot use a hosepipe for a range of domestic, outdoor and recreational activities until further notice.

As we’re all supplied by this company now is a good time to check the water butts are connected up to the guttering etc so that should we get the prolonged summer or drought expected then you’ll still have a small way of watering the garden! The following is taken from the website, as applicable to Knaphill:

“Why is a ban necessary?
The South East of England is in a drought situation following two consecutive autumn and winter periods of below average rainfall. We have taken this decision after careful consideration of our current water resources, the long term weather prospects and the overall needs of the environment but with much regret for the inconvenience it may cause for our customers. This action has the support of the Environment Agency, Water UK, CCWater and other water companies in the South East.

My house is/is not metered, so does the restriction affect me?
Yes. All customers in the Veolia Water Central area have to abide by the ban.

Can I use a hosepipe from a private borehole, artificial lake, or a well?
The temporary use ban does not cover water from a private source, such as a private borehole, but we would very much encourage you to use water carefully at such an important time. You may not use a hosepipe from the mains to replenish stored water supplies.

A temporary use ban means you cannot use a hosepipe for a range of domestic, outdoor and recreational activities until further notice. This includes the following uses:

1. watering a garden using a hosepipe (except the watering of a field of play to be used for a national or international sporting event);
2. cleaning a private motor-vehicle using a hosepipe;
3. watering plants on domestic or other non-commercial premises using a hosepipe (except by persons who are registered disabled and/or are of extreme frailty, conditional in each case upon prior written approval and the terms and conditions set out in the Exceptions Policy published on our website. );
4. cleaning a private leisure boat using a hosepipe;
5. filling or maintaining a domestic swimming or paddling pool;
6. drawing water, using a hosepipe, for domestic recreational use;
7. filling or maintaining a domestic pond using a hosepipe;
8. filling or maintaining an ornamental fountain;
9. cleaning walls, or windows, of domestic premises using a hosepipe;
10. cleaning paths or patios using a hosepipe; and
11. cleaning other artificial outdoor surfaces using a hosepipe.

A complete list of prohibited uses and exceptions is available on our website. Please click here Drought restrictions explained.

The term “hosepipe” is not itself defined but includes anything designed, adapted or used to serve the same purpose as a hosepipe. This means that garden sprinklers and irrigation systems, connected to the mains water supply, (including micro-irrigation, seep hoses, drip feed systems) are all considered to be hosepipes.

We are asking our customers to be sensible about using water around the home (see examples in the garden and home sections below). A temporary use ban helps to reduce the demand for water and it also raises awareness of the drought.

We have created a dedicated website www.veoliawater.co.uk/drought to host useful information for both commercial and domestic customers.”

Woking Borough Council’s advice on saving water can be found here.