20 2 - metropolitan borough of knowsley · cllr john b greer labour (park) telephone: ......

New sIssue 36 June 2013

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13Summerin Knowsley

ApprenticeAwards

Meet yourcouncillors

O ur four page summer special, on pages 13 to 16, will truly inspire you to get out and

about across the borough over the coming weeks. Whether it’s a family day out or wanting to get more active, we have something for everyone.

Cycling fever has gripped the borough and we are lucky to have our very own BMX track and velodrome at Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park. We’ve also teamed up with British Cycling and Sky to run a series of bike rides for all abilities across the borough. Plans are

I’m sure you’ll find this edition packed with ideas of how you can spend your summer and I hope you and your families have a very enjoyable time!

Cllr Ron RoundLeader of Knowsley Council

also underway to welcome back the UK’s biggest cycling race - The Tour of Britain. Further details are on page 14.

In this edition, we’ve also got updates on our £17 million investment package, improvements we are making in Prescot and Kirkby, as well as our usual what’s on guide.

We’ve even got a fantastic competition for you on page 5 which gives you the chance to win family day passes for the National Wildflower Centre and Acorn Farm!

Cllr Brian O’Hare is the new Mayor of Knowsley.

Raised in Huyton, Cllr O’Hare was first elected to Knowsley Council in 1982and has held a wide range of positions in the borough ever since.

Cllr O’Hare is a former civil engineer and construction manager and currentlyholds a number of roles in the voluntary and public sector. He is a Governorof The Sylvester Primary School, where he was educated.

During his year as Mayor, Cllr O’Hare will raise money for the Mayor’sMagic Fund - a charity which supports young people across Knowsley.

Cllr O’Hare’s wife, Christina - also a Knowsleycouncillor and a former Mayor of the borough -will be the Mayoress.

It is a huge honour and privilege to be serving my borough as Mayor this year. It is fantastic to be able to go out and see the great things happening in our communities and raise money for extremely worthy local causes.

Knowsley’s Mayor for 2013/14

New s

www.knowsley.gov.uk

Welcome to the latest edition of

Looking for something fun to do this summer? In Knowsley you don’t need to travel far for a great day out!

Older people

Summer in Knowsley

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Apprentices honoured

£17m investment package

Your viewsIf you have any comments, please contact Knowsley Council’s Communications team.

Knowsley NewsKnowsley CouncilHuyton Municipal BuildingsArchway Road Huyton L36 9YU

telephone: 443 3675email:[email protected]

Knowsley News is also available via podcast on the council’s website and in other formats including Braille, large print and audio tape. If you are registered blind or visually impaired you should receive an audio tape version of the magazine. Ring customer services on 443 4031 or [email protected]

Visit our website: www.knowsley.gov.uk

Join us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/knowsley.council

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/knowsleycouncil

Front cover:Visitors enjoying Prescot’s Elizabethan Fayre

Knowsley News is produced by Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council four times a year and distributed to all households in the borough. The next edition will be publishedin September 2013.

Designed by: Knowsley CouncilCommunications team, Municipal Buildings, Archway Road, Huyton, Knowsley, L36 9YU.

Printed by The Website on Signa Coat Silk: 100% waste paper (secondary fibre), mainly from household collections, minimum 50% post-consumer waste, no chlorine bleaching in production.

in this issue:What’s hot 02

02 Meet your councillors04 £17m investment package05 Competition time!05 Healthwatch Knowsley06 Joining forces to improve health07 Community Energy Saving Programme07 Are you energy fit?08 Building a greener future08 Shut the door on rogue traders09 Free early education for two-year-olds09 What’s on at the Huyton Suite10 Good Neighbours in Knowsley Awards10 Knowsley’s Open Art Exhibition

Regenerate Knowsley 11

11 Kirkby update12 Prescot update

Summer in Knowsley 13

13 Discover Knowsley this summer14 BMX track and velodrome14 Sky Rides15 Knowsley Flower Show15 OurPlace16 Get going every day16 Older People’s Fun O’lympics

Green Knowsley 17

Young people 18

18 Summer reading challenges18 Knowsley Music Education Hub

Older people 19

19 Age of opportunity19 Activities for older people19 Centre for Independent Living

In focus 20

20 Apprenticeship Awards21 Government benefit changes introduced

Your neighbourhood 22

22 South Huyton23 North Huyton24 South Kirkby25 North Kirkby26 Halewood27 Prescot, Whiston, Cronton and Knowsley Village

What’s on 28

New sContents

www.knowsley.gov.uk 01 www.knowsley.gov.uk

Meet yourcouncillors

What’s hot

George HowarthMP for KnowsleyConstituency office: 546 [email protected]

Cllr Bill BrennanLabour (Kirkby Central)Telephone: 548 [email protected]

Cllr Jayne AstonLabour (Cherryfield)Telephone: 548 [email protected]

Cllr Jean KeatsLabour (Whitefield)Telephone: 546 [email protected]

Shaun WoodwardMP for St Helens Southand WhistonConstituency office: 01744 [email protected]

Cllr Marie E StuartLabour (Kirkby Central)Telephone: 07884 275 [email protected]

Cllr David Lonergan MRICSLabour (Cherryfield)Telephone: 548 [email protected]

Cllr Norman KeatsLabour (Whitefield)Telephone: 546 [email protected]

Maria EagleMP for Garston and HalewoodConstituency office: 448 [email protected]

Cllr Jackie HarrisLabour (Kirkby Central)Telephone: 546 [email protected]

Cllr Ted GrannellLabour (Cherryfield)Telephone: 546 [email protected]

Cllr Ros SmithLabour (Whitefield)Telephone: 292 [email protected]

Cllr Edna FinneranLabour (Halewood North)Telephone: 475 [email protected]

Cllr Norman HoggLabour (Halewood West)Telephone: 486 [email protected]

Cllr Tina HarrisLabour (Halewood South)Telephone: 486 [email protected]

Cllr Malcolm J SharpLabour (Shevington)Telephone: 289 [email protected]

Cllr Terence GarlandLabour (Northwood)Telephone: 07811 248 [email protected]

Cllr John B GreerLabour (Park)Telephone: 289 [email protected]

Cllr Terry PowellLabour (Halewood North)Telephone: 07734 592 [email protected]

Cllr Thomas H FearnsLabour (Halewood West)Telephone: 430 [email protected]

Cllr Allan HarveyLabour (Halewood South)Telephone: 07598 671 [email protected]

Cllr Thomas GriersonLabour (Shevington)Telephone: 290 [email protected]

Cllr Michael MurphyLabour (Northwood)Telephone: 292 [email protected]

Cllr Del ArnallLabour (Park)Telephone: 07984 488 [email protected]

Cllr Shelley PowellLabour (Halewood North)Telephone: 07711 377 [email protected]

Cllr Bob SwannLabour (Halewood West)Telephone: 280 [email protected]

Cllr Gary SeeLabour (Halewood South)Telephone: 07961 318 [email protected]

Cllr Ray HalpinLabour (Shevington)Telephone: 546 [email protected]

Cllr Eddie ConnorLabour (Northwood)Telephone: 546 [email protected]

Cllr Dave DobbieLabour (Park)Telephone: 548 [email protected]

The MPs serving the borough are:

There are 63 councillors serving the communities of Knowsley.

If you need to get in touch with your local councillor, please use their contact details on these pages.

Key: Halewood Kirkby

02 www.knowsley.gov.uk

What’s hot

Cllr Graham MorganLabour (Roby)Telephone: 489 [email protected]

Cllr Ken McGlashanLabour (Page Moss)Telephone: 489 [email protected]

Cllr Brian O’Hare (Mayor)Labour (St Gabriel’s)Telephone: 489 [email protected]

Cllr Margaret HarveyLabour (St Bartholomew’s)Telephone: 449 [email protected]

Cllr Lynn O’KeeffeLabour (Prescot West)Telephone: 07547 405 192lynn.o’[email protected]

Cllr Ron GaffneyLabour (Whiston North)Telephone: 426 [email protected]

Cllr Christina M O’HareLabour (Roby)Telephone: 489 [email protected]

Cllr Veronica McNeillLabour (Page Moss)Telephone: 292 [email protected]

Cllr Peter BolandLabour (St Gabriel’s)Telephone: 292 [email protected]

Cllr Tony CunninghamLabour (St Bartholomew’s)Telephone: 477 [email protected]

Cllr Robert ArnallLabour (Prescot West)Telephone: 07950 200 [email protected]

Cllr Pauline KellyLabour (Whiston North)Telephone: 426 [email protected]

Cllr Christine BannonLabour (Roby)Telephone: 489 [email protected]

Cllr Dave TullyLabour (Page Moss)Telephone: 292 [email protected]

Cllr Frank WalshLabour (St Gabriel’s)Telephone: 07940 068 [email protected]

Cllr Andy MoorheadLabour (St Bartholomew’s)Telephone: 289 [email protected]

Cllr Mike KearnsLabour (Prescot West)Telephone: 481 [email protected]

Cllr Sandra GaffneyLabour (Whiston North)Telephone: 430 [email protected]

Cllr Graham A WrightLabour (Swanside)Telephone: 289 [email protected]

Cllr Dennis J BaumLabour (Stockbridge)Telephone: 480 [email protected]

Cllr Samuel LeeLabour (Longview)Telephone: 292 [email protected]

Cllr Victoria LambLabour (St Michael’s)Telephone: 289 [email protected]

Cllr Denise AllenLabour (Prescot East)Telephone: 430 [email protected]

Cllr Terry ByronLabour (Whiston South)Telephone: 208 3281 [email protected]

Cllr Bob MaguireLabour (Swanside)Telephone: 289 [email protected]

Cllr Heather WeightmanLabour (Stockbridge)Telephone: 480 [email protected]

Cllr Diane ReidLabour (Longview)Telephone: 480 [email protected]

Cllr Joan LillyLabour (St Michael’s)Telephone: 290 [email protected]

Cllr Shannon ArnallLabour (Prescot East)Telephone: 07957 422 [email protected]

Cllr Tony NewmanLabour (Whiston South)Telephone: 292 [email protected]

Cllr Ron RoundLabour (Swanside)Telephone: 443 [email protected]

Cllr Bill WeightmanLabour (Stockbridge)Telephone: 480 [email protected]

Cllr Tony HarveyLabour (Longview)Telephone: 449 [email protected]

Cllr Kay MoorheadLabour (St Michael’s)Telephone: 289 [email protected]

Cllr Steff O’KeeffeLabour (Prescot East)Telephone: 07704 013 462steff.o’[email protected]

Cllr David WilliamsLabour (Whiston South)Telephone: 430 [email protected]

Huyton Prescot Whiston


In balancing the budget for 2013/14, the council has had to make some very difficult decisions about reducing some services. Where possible, the key services that are most important to residents will be protected.

However, over £17 million has been re-allocated for investment in areas which will improve the sustainability of the borough in the years to come. This investment package includes funding to: • Improve attainment in our schools• Provide financial support to first-time home buyers• Improve housing and bring empty homes back into use• Improve our roads and footpaths• Provide additional multi-million pound investment in our town centres• Support new businesses and encourage business investment• Provide wider access to affordable credit in our communities• Deliver superfast broadband to key business areas • Deliver energy efficiency schemes to reduce carbon emissions and achieve substantial savings• Improve sports facilities and promote high profile events such as The Tour of Britain which bring visitors and business to the borough

investment packageLike other local authorities across the country, Knowsley Council continues to face significant cuts in Government funding.

Improving attainment is a key priority for the council

£17mCllr Norman Keats, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance and IT, said,

I am not sure you will find another council anywhere across the country who can give a similar message - investing £17 million in essential services at a time when our funding is being cut. But this investment is essential if we are to make Knowsley a thriving borough where people want to live, work and do business.

This is what Knowsley does best - we don’t lurch from year to year, but we plan ahead and make the right decisions for the future of this borough.

Regular updates regarding the investment package will be provided in future editions of Knowsley News and on the council’s website. You can also visit the council’s website for further details relating to the 2013/14 budget.

Thousands lined the streets for The Tour of Britain last year

What’s hot


Helping residents get on the property ladder

From April, Knowsley Local Involvement Network (LINk) became Healthwatch Knowsley. It gives people who use health and social care services an opportunity to have their say on services provided locally.

Healthwatch Knowsley ensures residents get the best out of their local health and social care services, and have a say in the delivery and design of local services.

Residents can get involved in Healthwatch activities. These include focus groups, coffee mornings, taking part in consultations and receiving regular updates and information from Healthwatch Knowsley. To find out more, ring 449 3954 or visitwww.healthwatchknowsley.co.uk

Competition time!Fancy winning tickets to visit two of Knowsley’s top attractions?We are giving away fantastic family day passes for the NationalWildflower Centre and Acorn Farm!

Home to an array of beautiful flowers, the National Wildflower Centre is your chance to admire some of nature’s most colourful creations. Relax in the centre’s café, treat yourself in the gift shop or explore the visitors’ centre. If that’s not enough, the lucky winner will also be treated to afternoon tea for a family of four!

Once you have relaxed amongst the flowers and enjoyed nature at its best, it’s then time to pay a visit to the award-winning Acorn Farm.With a family day pass you and your family can get close to a range of animals, from lambs, goats and sheep, to horses, guinea pigs and rabbits. Whilst you’re there, why not enjoy the delights of the Woodland Walk, buy homemade produce in the farm shop, or relax in the Oak Tree Café?

To be in with a chance of winning these fabulous family prizes, simply complete this sentence in no more than 20 words:

I love discovering Knowsley because...........You can enter online through the council’s website or post your answer to the address on the contents page of this magazine. One lucky family will win both prizes, and the closing date for entries is Friday 19 July.

Bo‘fixes it’at local park

b

Children’s favourite Bob the Builder was fixing it for Kirkby school children to bring a new-look play area to a local park.

Bob and pupils from St Laurence’s Catholic Primary School, Kirkby, joined workers on the £68,000 project to create a new toddlers’ play area at Webster Park.

The children were asked what they wanted in the play area and their ideas were included in the final design. This included a roundabout, climbing frame and swings.

The pupils join Bob to start the work

Bo‘fixes it’at local park

b

What’s hot

04 www.knowsley.gov.uk www.knowsley.gov.uk 05

Public Health updateAs you will be aware, the council is now responsible for Public Health in Knowsley. The change won’t directly impact on you or how you access services, but it will help improve the long-term health and wellbeing of Knowsley communities.

Matthew Ashton, Acting Director of Public Health, said,

The health and wellbeing of ourresidents is at the heart of everything we do, supporting people to lead healthier lives.By sharing information and resources, we will understand our residents better, which will help us make a real difference to what really mattersto them.

To find out more about Public Health in Knowsley, visit the council’s website.

Staysafe inthe sun

Excessive exposure to the sun’s harmful rays on a sunny or even overcast day can cause sunstroke, sunburn and in some cases can lead to skin cancer. With the arrival of the warmer weather, follow these tips to help you stay safe in the sun:

• Seek the shade between the peak sun hours of 10am and 4pm• Cover up with clothing, a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses• Use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher every day• For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher• Reapply sunscreen often, especially after swimming, perspiring or using a towel• Check your skin from head to toe every month for new or changing moles. See a doctor if you spot any changes• Keep newborn babies out of the sun, and use sunscreen on children over six months old• Avoid tanning booths of all types as they can have the same effects as the sun’s harmful rays• Keep well hydrated - drink plenty of water and soft drinks

For further advice, visit www.nhs.uk

improve healthJoining forces to

Health and Wellbeing BoardThere has been a Health and Wellbeing Partnership in Knowsley since 2004 which has successfully driven improvements for local people. However, under the reforms to the NHS, the Knowsley Health and Wellbeing Board is now a council committee. The board aims to ensure that all of the organisations responsible for health and wellbeing work together and share resources to improve the lives of residents. The board has developed Knowsley’s Health and Wellbeing Strategy, which sets out its vision and priorities. Over the next 18 months, the board’s priorities are:

• Improving mental health• Reducing levels of alcohol misuse• Reducing the number of people who smoke (especially in pregnancy) to minimize respiratory disease and childhood asthma• Enabling people to understand their health better and choose the right services

For more information, visit www.knowsleyhwb.org.uk

What’s hot


Thousands of homes in Kirkby have now benefited from a £15.5 million scheme to improve energy efficiency.

The Community Energy Saving Programme (CESP) allows private homeowners to have external wall insulation, loft insulation or a replacement boiler fitted in their home.

The work is carried out free of charge to the homeowner and is funded by EDF Energy along with other energy companies.

The total value of the work being carried out in Kirkby is £15.5 million and it is estimated that the improvements will save 340,000 tonnes of carbon emissions over the next 30 years!

The 2,000th property to be improved is Matt and Jeanette Smith’s home on Brook Hey Drive in Kirkby.

The Smith’s property has had a new boiler fitted and wall insulation installed, as they hope to reduce their quarterly electricity bill of £800.

Jeanette said,

I’m really glad we had the work done. We can really feel the difference and hopefully our electricity bills will now start to come down. We are made up and would definitely recommend it to other people.

For the latest advice on reducing your energy bills, visit the energy efficiency section of the council’s website, or ring the council’s Energy Efficiency Officer on443 5817.

Two thousand Kirkby homessave on energy bills and emissions

Jeanette and Matt (centre) with the partners who

have delivered the CESP scheme

Knowsley residents have been toasting the success of the Community Energy Fit scheme, which provides energy efficiency training and work experience to local people looking to boost their job prospects.

Residents, councillors and representatives from a variety of agencies gathered to celebrate the achievements of the scheme.

The council has worked alongside national fuel poverty charity National Energy Action (NEA), energy provider E.ON, and local organisations such as Knowsley Housing Trust and Villages Housing to deliver the 18-month programme.

During this time 160 volunteers were trained in energy efficiency awareness and developed new skills.

Four of the trainees have since become Community Energy Champions, volunteering at a range of local events. These champions have already reached over 400 residents with the energy efficiency message.

Knowsley Community and Voluntary Services (KCVS) has been awarded £20,000 from E.ON’s Community Legacy Fundto continue the work of the Community EnergyFit scheme, working with the council and otherlocal partners.

For help and advice on keeping homes warm and paying fuel bills, call the Home Heat Helpline on 0800 33 66 99 or visit www.homeheathelpline.org.uk

youAre

energy fit?

Community Energy Fit participants are joined by representatives from E.ON and Cllr Eddie Connor, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Community and Culture, at the celebration event

What’s hot


The Prescot primary school is one of Knowsley’s leading ‘Eco-Schools’ and has gained bronze and silver awards recognising their environmental efforts. They’ve also scooped the Eco-Schools top Green Flag award twice, and are currently bidding for a third.

From recycling in the classroom and reusing items for art projects, to switching off electrical items when not in use and composting fruit and vegetable waste - the children have proved their green credentials.

Evelyn pupils with their greenhouse

Shut the door onrogue traders

Building agreener

futurePupils at Evelyn Community Primary School are building a greener future - with the help of hundreds of recycled plastic bottles.

The school’s latest ‘green’ initiative involves building an outdoor classroom made from recycled plastic bottles. It follows a successful project to create a greenhouse made from drinks containers.

If you’re thinking about making improvements toyour home or garden, make sure you choose theright people to do the job.

Avoid being caught out by rogue traders by following these top tips:

• Don’t open the door to suspicious callers offering home repairs or gardening• Don’t allow cold callers to pressure you into agreeing or signing anything on your doorstep• Never allow unknown callers into your home no matter what story they give you. Genuine callers won’t pressure you into letting them in• Keep your back door locked to avoid distraction burglary• Be wary of special offers or warnings that your house is unsafe - your local Community Safety Officer can arrange for a free security check on your property• If you want to have work carried out, get three quotes so you can see how the prices compare• Ask people you trust to recommend good tradespeople

If you think a caller is suspicious, or if you want to set up a No ColdCalling Zone in your local area, ring Trading Standards on 443 4738.

You can also contact your gas, electricity or water supplier to set up apassword identification scheme, so that you know their callers are genuine.

Eco-Schools isan internationalaward programmewhich encouragesschools to reducewaste, increase their recyclingrates and protect the environment.

Knowsley currently has 44 Eco-Schools, including St Albert’s Catholic Primaryin Stockbridge Village. The school has recycling bins in every classroom, as well as compost bins, wormeries anda battery & textile recycling scheme.They even make bricks out of paper!As a result, St Albert’s has reduced the waste it sends to landfill by two thirds.

What’s hot


Music lovers are in for a treat with two upcoming events at the Huyton Suite.The latest line-up of top entertainment kicks off with Soul Legend on Friday 28 June who returns by popular demand with his set of soul and Motown classics.

The Illinois Blues Brothers debut at the venue on Friday 27 September for a journey through the hits from the cult Blues Brothers movies.

For more details and to buy tickets for these events, ring443 3761 or visit www.wegottickets.com

Is your child approaching their second birthday?

They may be eligible for a free part-time place in a high quality childcare setting. These include childminders and nurseries with an outstanding or good Ofsted report.

If you claim any of the following benefits, your child may be entitled to a free place once they are two-years-old.

• Income Support• Income-based Job Seekers Allowance• Income-related Employment Support Allowance• Child Tax Credit and a household income of less than £16,190 (but not if you are in work and receiving Working Tax Credit)• The Guarantee element of State Pension Credit• Support under part VI of the Immigration & Asylum Act 1999

Free early education fortwo-year-olds in Knowsley

To find out more about how this could benefit your child or to apply for a place, contact your health visiting team or local children’s centre. Alternatively, Knowsley Early Years Childcare Information Service can help - ring 443 5635 or 0800 085 2022.

WHAT’S ON

LIVEAT THE HUYTON SUITE

Summer specials at

Get ready for summerat the Spa.

The Spa has lots of offers to help you get ready for the beach, or why not just treat yourself to some well-deserved pampering?

A team of highly-trained beauty therapists are on-hand to give you expert advice and treatments in this state-of-the-art spa.

Don’t forget that using the Spa also gives you full access to the facilities at Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park, including two swimming pools, Jacuzzi and gym.

To find out more about the Spa’s summer specials, visit www.thespaknowsley.co.uk or ring 443 2580.

You can find the Spa on Facebookwww.facebook.com/thespaknowsley or on Twitter @thespaknowsley

What’s hot


Are you creative? Would you like to have your worked displayed in a professional, public exhibition?

Knowsley’s Open Art Exhibition is taking place at Huyton Gallery from Monday 21 October to Saturday 25 January.

The exhibition is open to all ages and abilities, with prizes for the most popular pieces. Young people (up to age 17) can submit their work for the Young Artists’ Exhibition.

Entry forms are available in Prescot Museum and Kirkby and Huyton Galleries from August. You can also enter online through the council’s website. The deadline for applications is Monday 23 September.

For more information, ring 443 5617 or visit thecouncil’s website.

Good Neighbours in Knowsley Awards Nominations are still open for this year’s Good Neighbours in Knowsley Awards.

The awards are your chance to say thank you to that special neighbour who goes the extra mile to help you or your local community.

Anyone who lives in Knowsley can be nominated, and we are looking for nominations for people of all ages.

Nomination forms are available in all of the borough’s One Stop Shops and libraries. You can also nominate your good neighbour online through the council’s website (search for Good Neighbours), and at upcoming community events across the borough.

The closing date for nominations is Wednesday 7 August. Winners will be presented with their awards in September.

For more information, visit the council’s website.

Basketball Academyfor Knowsley

A basketball academy is being developed in Knowsley to offer top quality courses and training for people over 16.

The academy is a partnership between Knowsley Community College, Knowsley Council and Mersey Tigers - one of the UK’s top basketball teams.

The students will benefit from professional coaching, physical training and competitions, as well as studying for academic and coaching qualifications.

They will have the chance to play competitive games for the academy and deliver coaching sessions for young players and teams across Merseyside.

The students will also get free access to Knowsley Community College’sfirst-class fitness training, physiotherapy, sports massage and spa facilities,as well as Knowsley’s leisure centres.

Knowsley’s

Art Exhibition

What’s hot


Progress is continuing on the site of thenew Kirkby Market.

The council is investing £2.5 million in the new, modern undercover facility, which will replace the old market that had stood since 1960.

Whilst traders continue to operate from a temporary market next door, diggers have started work on site to build the new market, which is due to open later this summer.

Martyn Davies, Chair of the Traders’ Committee, said,

The traders are really looking forward to seeing the new market open this year. We have worked closely with the council throughout the process and it is great to see the construction work in full swing. In the meantime, tradersare continuing to operate from the temporary marketnext door.

The wider regeneration of the town centre has already seen the new St Chad’s Health Centre open its doors, and some derelict buildings in the area demolished.

In addition, redevelopment work continues at The Kirkby Centre, where Knowsley Council is investing £5 million to bring a range of public services together in onemodern facility.

L-R: Knowsley Council’s Deputy Chief Executive Mike Harden, Martyn Davies, Bob Merriman from contractor Galliford Tryand Cllr Dave Lonergan on the market site

Residents Ann McCarthy and Ann Seary at the site of their

new homes, with representatives from Knowsley Council,

Tesco and developer Keepmoat

The new Kirkby Markettakes shape

Construction underway on £200 million Kirkby programmeConstruction work is now well underway on one of the key elements of the £200 million programme to regenerate Kirkby.

Contractors are on site on St Kevin’s Drive to build 71 new homes for Plus Dane Group and Cherryfield Co-operative residents who currently live on Cherryfield Drive.

Once the St Kevin’s Drive development has been completed, the residents’ former homes on Cherryfield Drive will be demolished. This will allow construction work to start on the new Tesco store and retail units in Kirkby town centre.

Cllr Dave Lonergan, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Economy and Skills, said,

It is fantastic to see construction work underway on St Kevin’s Drive and I’m really pleased that residents can now look forward to being in their new homes.

The council and its partners have been working incredibly hard behind the scenes to drive the regeneration programme forward, despite the ongoing national economic difficulties. I’m delighted that residents can now see visible signs of the great progress we are making in Kirkby.

Regenerate Knowsley


Regenerate Knowsley


TownscapeHeritage Initiative

NewLeisure andSoccerCentre

The Prescot Centre

LeylandStreet

The Heritage Lottery Fund has awarded £1.85 million to the Prescot Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI), which will be used to repair, restore and improve Prescot’s historic town centre.

Owen Barton is the Prescot Townscape Heritage Initiative Manager. He will oversee the budget for the THI and work to ensure building repairs, community events and training opportunities provide maximum benefit to the local economy and community.

The first THI project is nearing completion in Leyland Street. Work on the first buildings to benefit from the funding will soon be underway and further details will be in the next edition of Knowsley News.

For further information on the Prescot THI, ring Owen Barton on 443 2757 or email [email protected]

The seven new 3rd Generation (3G) football pitches will be open on Monday 15 July! The state-of-the-art pitches have the same appearance and characteristics as grass. To find out more or to book a pitch, ring 443 2200 or visit www.activeknowsley.com

Work on the new leisure facility is progressing well and is due to open in October. The external structure is now complete and the interior is being kitted out with the latest fitness equipment, changing facilities and a coffee bar. Further details about the opening will be available on the council’s website nearer the time.

Improvements to Leyland Street will be completed in July. Footpaths and road surfaces have been replaced with traditional paving materials to help celebrate Prescot’s rich heritage.In addition, the street lighting has been upgraded to incorporate the latest energy efficient LED technology.

Since opening last year, The Prescot Centre - which includes the One Stop Shop, library and museum - has had some great feedback, as well as an increase in visitors.

When compared to the previous year, the library is reporting an increase of 20,000 visitors. This has resulted in more people attending activities such as after-school clubs, playgroups, courses and making the most of the new family history helpdesk.

Visitors to the museum have increased from an average of 14,000 per year to over 30,000.

The One Stop Shop has also reported an increase in the number of people using its services.

The Prescot Centre is located in the heart of the town centre and the increase in visitors is helping to regenerate and revitalise Prescot.

Summer in Knowsley


Open seven days a week, 10am to 4pm, there’s always lots to see and do. The farm is home to a range of animals including sheep, cows, goats, pigs, horses, chickens, rabbits, guinea pigs and even meerkats!

You can get close to some of the animals by stroking and feeding them through petting sessions at weekends and in school

holidays. Horse riding sessions are also available – contact the farm for more details.

To find out more, visit www.acornfarm.co.uk or ring 548 1524.

Summer in Knowsley

Acorn Farm

With warmer days, lighter nights and the school holidays just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about what to do this summer. Luckily, there’s plenty to do right on your doorstep here in Knowsley! The next four pages are packed with ideas for the whole family to enjoy...

You don’t have to travel far to enjoy some great attractions and events over the summer months.

For more information about what’s right on your doorstep, visit www.discoverknowsley.co.uk. You’ll find details on the borough’s fantastic flower show, the popular producers’ markets, the air-defying Aerial Extreme and the exciting Knowsley Adventure Centre - to name just a few.

Whether it’s getting close to the animals at the safari park or enjoying the history and surroundings of Knowsley Hall, you’re bound to find something to keep the whole family entertained as you Discover Knowsley.

Acorn Farm is anaward-winning, family attraction in Kirkby.

Take a look at seasonal flowers in bloom at the National Wildflower Centre. Based at Court Hey Park, the centre showcases wildflowers in a natural environment with lots of ideas you can replicate at home.

Be inspired to create new wildflower landscapes in your own garden or backyard!

The centre includes a café serving delicious food with homemade specialities and a gift shop where you can buy native wildflower seeds. In July, the National Wildflower Centre will be hosting its annual Scarecrow Festival where you can marvel at the creations made by schools and community groups from across Merseyside. There will also be a selection of vintage and craft stalls for you to browse and pick up a bargain. The Scarecrow Festival takes place on 6 and 7 July between 10am and 4pm – and entry is free.

Workshops and events are taking place at the centre throughout the summer holidays - to find out more, visit www.nwc.org.uk or ring 738 1913.

National Wildflower CentreDiscover Knowsleythis summer

A young visitor atAcorn Farm

Last year’s Scarecrow

Festival


Last year’s Tour of Britain

Summer in Knowsley

BMX track and velodrome

Sky Rides in Knowsley Knowsleywelcomes backThe Tour of Britain

Knowsley Council is working with British Cycling and Sky to get even more people cycling this summer.

The Sky Ride programme trains local people to plan new routes and lead scenic rides in the area. The programme begins on 30 June and will continue until October.

The rides are free and offer something for everyone – whether you’re building your confidence or are already comfortable on a bike and looking for a challenge.

Whichever you choose, you’ll be riding on safe routes and in good company. Cllr Eddie Connor, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Community and Culture, said,

To find out more about the new Sky Ride programme and the rides planned in Knowsley, visit www.goskyride.com

We have some great facilities here, including the BMX track and velodrome, as well as cycle routes, pathways and clubs. The Sky Ride programme is just another part of our commitment to give our residents every opportunity to watch, enjoy and take part in cycling.

Final preparations are underway as Knowsley welcomes back the UK’s biggest professional bike race – The Tour of Britain – on Tuesday 17 September.

Knowsley will be hosting Stage 3 of the event, which is an individual time trial. Over one hundred of the world’s top cyclists will be competing against the clock along a 10-mile circuit in the borough, starting and finishing at Knowsley Safari Park. The time trial will help to celebrate 10 years of The Tour of Britain, so this really is a race not to be missed!

More details regarding the race route can be found on the back page of this edition of Knowsley News.

Further details about how you can help to celebrate The Tour coming to Knowsley, including community events, will be available on the council’s website soon.

Knowsley’s BMX track and velodrome give you even more opportunities to get on your bike and enjoy the summer weather!

Regular sessions are available on both tracks, which are located at Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park.

You can now hire BMX bikes, helmets and safety equipment, as well as getting tips from experienced coaches at the BMX track. You can also hire the track and equipment for birthday parties.

To find out more about times, costs, accreditation or track hire, visit www.activeknowsley.com or ring 443 3540.


Summer in Knowsley

Knowsley Flower Showcelebrates 15 years

Aged 11 to 19?Get down to OurPlace this summer!

My Place, Your Place, Our PlaceOur PlaceMy Place, Your Place, Our Place

This year’s event takes place on Sunday 4 August at Court Hey Park, Huyton, from 11am to 5pm. The centrepiece, as always, will be the floral marquee that will be full of exhibits.

There will be a range of classes suitable for all ages including specialist children and teenage categories.

There will also be a Food for Thought marquee sponsored by the Love Food Hate Waste campaign, and the Mersey Morris Men and Guide Dogs for the Blind will be giving demonstrations.

Change4Life will also have a stand at this year’s show, offering tips on how to lead a healthier lifestyle.

The show will also include a community and charities marquee, where local community groups, charities and craft stalls can promote their services. For more information on booking a place, ring 443 5353 or visit www.knowsleyflowershow.com

For advice on entering the Knowsley Flower Show and what to grow, ring Christine Yates on 480 8666.

Knowsley Flower Show - the North West’s largest freehorticultural event - is marking its 15th anniversary this year.

With the school holidays to look forward to, hundreds of young people across the borough are planning to make OurPlace their place this summer.

From an outdoor skate park offering hours of endless fun in the sun, to a media suite and dance studio for music fanatics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.Why not challenge your friends at pool, table tennis or test your skills on the Wii and Xbox?

There will also be a range of other activities taking place each day over the summer holidays – contact OurPlace for more details. Got an idea for an activity? Let them know!

OurPlace is the perfect place to make new friends and develop new hobbies – so make sure you get down there this summer.

Extended opening hours over the summer holidays!Monday to Friday 2.30pm to 5.30pm & 6.30pm to 9.30pm

Saturday 1pm to 4pm & 4.30pm to 7.30pm

Interested? For more details, ring 443 5323 or visit the council’s website (search for OurPlace). You can also find OurPlace on Facebook www.facebook.com/ourplaceknowsley and Twitter @_OurPlace.

Get going every dayOlder People’sFun O’lympics

Stockbridge Village’ssuper SaturdaysChildren and young people in Knowsley are being invited to go along to Stockbridge Village Neighbourhood Centre every Saturday to take part in their fantastic kids’ clubs.

‘The Safari Kids Club’ takes place from 10am to 3pm and is open to children under 11. The club offers fun activities including a giant bouncy castle, table tennis, badminton, face painting and arts & crafts.

From 12 noon to 3pm, young people over 11 can join in the ‘Shout about Saturdays’ club, which provides a range of great activities including live music, dance and sports.

The cost of each club is just £2 per child, with a discount of £1 for each brother or sister who goes along with them. Local residents run both of the clubs voluntarily, and there is a community café on site selling healthy food for the whole family. For more information, please ring Stockbridge Village Neighbourhood Centre on 443 5070.

Are you over 55 and want to get involved in something fun where you can make new friends? Why not take part in this year’s Older People’s Fun O’lympics?

With everything from badminton and table tennis to dominoes and scrabble, there’s something to suit all interests and physical abilities.

The fun O’lympic event will take place on Friday 27 September at Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park, where four teams from different areas across Knowsley will compete in a variety of activities.

Weekly practice sessions are now taking place at the following leisure centres:

Halewood team

Halewood Leisure Centre Thursdays 10.30am to 12.30pm

Huyton/Prescot, Whiston, Cronton & Knowsley Village teams

Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park Thursdays 1.30pm to 3.30pm

Kirkby team

Kirkby Leisure Centre Wednesdays1pm to 4pm

For more information, please ring Peter King on 289 4317.

Change4Life is encouraging people to ‘get active’ over the summer.

There are lots of fun ways to get active in Knowsley – from swimming and fitness classes at our leisure centres, to running, walking and cycle paths in our parks. You can even get active in the garden or have fun growing your own healthy veggies!

Being active keeps your heart healthy, your muscles strong and is a great way to reduce stress and lift your mood.

Adults should try to be active for at least 30 minutes five times a week, children aged five to 16 at least one hour each day, and those under five need three hours of activity a day.

Visit www.nhs.uk/change4life for more ideas on how to get active.


Arts & crafts session at the Safari Kids Club

www.knowsley.gov.uk 17

Summer in Knowsley


Get going every day


We’re changingthe way we collect

your binsFrom 7 October, the council is introducing a new, easy-to-use waste collection service to help you recycle even more of your waste.

Called ‘Week in, Week Out’, the new scheme will mean that one week we will collect recycling waste (grey bin) and the next week we will collect waste which cannot be recycled (maroon bin).

Garden waste (blue bin) will be emptied on the same day as either your maroon bin or grey bin, depending on where you live - we will contact you to let you know.

These changes will help us meet our target to recycle 50% of our waste, and save on expensive landfill charges.

The food waste recycling collection service will end on 4 October and this waste can then be put in your maroon bin.

In future years, all of the contents of your maroon bin will be processed to generate heat and electricity.

Green Knowsley

Week twoWe will collect your non-recycling bin

Week oneWe will collect your recycling bin

We will collect your blue bin with either your grey or maroon bin, depending on where you live

Q: Why is the council making these changes?A: We need to achieve our recycling target of 50%. The council is also facing significant Government funding cuts and we need to reduce our spending. These changes will save around £500,000 from our waste collection spending – savings which will help safeguard other vital services.

Q: Will I have enough space inmy maroon bin?A: Yes. At least 60% of an average household’s waste is recyclable. By recycling your waste you will

find that a standard maroon bin is adequate for your needs.

It is also important that we all try to reduce the amount of waste we produce. For example, buy goods with less packaging or try to reduce food waste - for hints and tips, visit www.lovefoodhatewaste.com

Q: What happens if I have excess waste?A: Extra waste can be taken to the Household Waste Recycling Centres at Huyton or Kirkby, or the recycling ‘bring sites’ across the borough. For further details, visit the council’s website.

Your questions answeredWe will not remove bags of waste left at the side of bins or empty grey bins containing non-recyclable waste. Overflowing bins and bags are unsightly, create littering, are a potential health hazard, and can cause delays to bin collections.

Remember – it’s vital to put the right things in the rightbin. Look out for a full guide in the next edition of Knowsley News.

What’s next? In the coming months, you will be seeing more information about the changes and in September each household will receive a waste collection calendar, as well as helpful recycling information. To find out moreabout the changes, ring the Environmental Helpline on 443 2400 or visit the council’s website.


Summer reading challengesKnowsley Library Service is offering a range of reading challengesfor the whole family to get involved in this summer...

More activities in Knowsley

The Summer Reading Challenge asks children aged four to 11 to read at least six books from their local library over the summer holidays. This year’s challenge is based on ‘The Creepy House’ and is all about frightful reads that thrill children without being scary. However, children can read any six books they like.

There are plenty of rewards to encourage children along the way, including bookmarks, wristbands, keyrings and notebooks. Each child who completes the challenge will be presented with a certificate and entered into a prize draw.

The Summer Reading Challenge runs from Saturday 6 July to Saturday 14 September.

Running alongside is Reading Rewards, which challenges young people and adults to read eight books from a variety of categories.

The Reading Rewards challenge starts on Saturday 6 July and finishes on Thursday 31 October.

Those who complete the challenge will be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 high street voucher.

Bookstart Bear Club is encouraging parents and carers to visit the library and share books with their children under four. Pick up a special challenge card from any Knowsley library and have it stamped each time you visit with your child. After six visits, your child will be presented with a special certificate.

For more information on any of the challenges, please contact your local library.

It’s time for you to join in!Knowsley’s Music Education Hub provides children and young people with activities both in and out of school. It is an exciting partnership between the council, schools and leading music organisations including the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra.

The hub:• Involves children and young people

aged five to 18 in creating the programme of activities

• Provides opportunities for children and young people to experience a quality education in music

• Provides high quality instrumental and vocal tuition including access to interactive online resources

• Gives children and young people the opportunity to learn new skills in a fun way

• Offers a low-cost instrument loan scheme

• Increases self-confidence, ambition and achievement through participation in activities

• Provides unique opportunities, including the chance to take part in large scale events and perform alongside professional musicians

In addition, Knowsley Music Education Hub is the lead partner for Sing Up in the Merseyside region, which encourages singing in schools.

To find out more or to get involved, ring 443 3015 or visit www.knowsleyonlinemusic.co.uk

There are hundreds of activities taking place across the borough, ranging from Zumba to guitar club, so there’s something for everyone!

Visit www.youthactivitiesinknowsley.co.uk or ring 443 3247 to find out more.

Young people


Age ofopportunity

Activities for older people

Mobile and home delivery library services

Centre forIndependent Living

Older people

1W O R K I N G A S O N E

Age UK has worked with local residents to create the latest older people’s strategy ‘Age of opportunity – working as one’.

The strategy highlights the issues important to older people in the borough, following consultation with residents. The issues have been divided into four themes:

• Being physically and emotionally healthy• Being part of a strong and dynamic community• Having a satisfying and fulfilling home• Maximising income and spending power

These issues will now be discussed through Theme Work Groups to decide how they can be addressed. To get involved in the groups, please ring the Older People’s Involvement team on 290 3194 or email [email protected]

Do you run a regular activity aimed at older people in the borough?

Knowsley Older People’s Voice is on the lookout for activities that are taking place so they can help raise awareness amongst older people and encourage them to attend. If you have an activity that you would like Knowsley Older People’s Voice to promote, please ring 490 3194 or [email protected]

Residents are being reminded that Knowsley Library Service offer home delivery and mobile library services for those who find it difficult to get to their local library.

The Mobile Library Service makes regular visits to locations across the

borough, whilst the Home Delivery Service can bring the benefits of the library to your home. Both services offer a range of books for both adults and children, including large print books and talking books. For more details of the services, please ring 443 4202.

The Centre for Independent Living is a one-stop-shop for health and disability issues in Knowsley.

Based on Huyton Business Park, it is home to a variety of services to help people with disabilities or mobility issues live more independently.

Residents can try out a range of equipment including stairlifts and adapted kitchen aids at the centre, and can receive specialist advice and support. It is also possible to purchase independent living equipment or rent a wheelchair.

The centre is a partnership between the voluntary sector, Knowsley Council, 5 Boroughs Partnership Foundation Trust and Knowsley Housing Trust.

The Centre for Independent Living is open Monday to Friday 9am to 4.30pm, and out-of-hours or weekend appointments can be arranged. For more information on the centre and its services, please ring 244 4070 or visit www.knowsleycil.org

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Apprentices honoured

In focus

The first ever Liverpool City Region Apprenticeship Awards were held at St George’s Hall to recognise the brightest and best apprentices in the region – and the companies who have helped support them.

Knowsley’s winners were:

Jessica Whitehead, Knowsley’s Apprentice of the Year (16 to 24-years-old)

Apprentice Counter Assistant Davey’s Chemist, Huyton

Trained by: Intraining

Jessica began her apprenticeship in January 2012 and quickly impressed her bosses. She studied hard to gain her NVQ2 in Customer Service in less than seven months before beginning work on Level 3. In January this year Davey’s Chemist took Jessica on full-time, and she is now studying for the National Pharmacy Association Medicines Counter Assistant qualification as accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council.

Jessica was nominated because of her performance, dedication and maturity. Her managers say she

has become an extremely valued member of the team and a fantastic role model for other young people.

Nominating Jessica, Karen Snellgrove, Business Development Manager at Davey’s Chemist, described her as “totally inspiring” and said she is extremely caring and always goes the extra mile for the customers, especially those who are less mobile. She is dedicated and prepared to do whatever is required of her, staying late at short notice if needed.

Before taking up her apprenticeship, Jessica says she had never really considered a career in pharmacy. But now she loves it and hopes to enjoy a long and successful career – something her bosses are confident she can achieve!

Jaguar Land Rover, winner of Liverpool City Region ApprenticeEmployer of the Year Award 2013 (Macro)

Based in Halewood, Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) has taken on more than 2,400 new production operators through an Intermediate Apprenticeship in Business Improvement Techniques since 2011.

These apprentices have gained valuable experience working on the production of the Range Rover Evoque, which is manufactured

at the plant. The company also promotes Advanced and Higher Apprenticeships over four or six years, the latter including a fully sponsored BEng degree.

A great advocate of the benefits of apprenticeships for business, JLR says apprenticeships deliver skills designed around their business needs, creating a more committed and competent workforce.

Star apprentices from Knowsley were amongst those honoured at a glittering awards ceremony in Liverpool.

Jessica Whitehead picks up her award from Paul Morton of Myerscough College

Richard Else of Jaguar Land Rover picks up the company’s award for Employer of the Year, presented by Adrian Heally of Intraining

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In focus

Government benefitchanges introduced

Although they have been introduced by the Government and not the council, we have been asked lots of questions particularly about the under-occupation penalty, commonly known as the ‘bedroom tax’, over the last couple of months.

Q. I am a pensioner. Will I have to move to a smaller property?

A. No. Pensioners do not have to pay the bedroom tax, regardless of how many people live in their home.

You also do not have to pay the bedroom tax if you:

• Own your home• Have a mortgage under a shared

ownership lease• Have been placed in temporary

accommodation by the council to prevent homelessness

• Rent from a private landlord

Q. What size does a room have to be for it to be classed as a bedroom?

A. The regulations don’t state a minimum size that a room must be to be classed as a bedroom.

Q. Do I still have to pay bedroom tax if my property is reclassified with fewer bedrooms?

A. It depends on how many people live in your property and how many bedrooms there are. For example, if you only need one bedroom, you will still need to pay bedroom tax if your

three-bedroom property is reclassified as a two-bedroom property.

However, you may not need to pay bedroom tax if you need two bedrooms and your property is reclassified as atwo-bedroom property by your landlord.

It is up to your landlord to decide how many bedrooms your property should be classed as having.

Q. What if my spare bedroom is used to store equipment needed for a disability?

A. The Government guidelines state that this will still be classed as a bedroom and bedroom tax must, therefore, be paid on it.

Q. What if I can’t sleep in the same room as my partner due to a disability?

A. You are expected to share a room but there are a number of appeals in progress and this may change in the future.

Q. How do I pay the bedroom tax?

A. Your Housing Benefit will be reduced by 14% or 25% depending on how many spare rooms you have.

You will need to pay the difference between your rent and your Housing Benefit to your landlord.

If you need extra help while you look for smaller accommodation, you may be entitled to a Discretionary Housing Payment. Ring 443 4042 to find out more.

If you have any more queries about the bedroom tax, speak to your landlord.

A host of Government benefit changes are now in place and may be affecting you or your family.


Your neighbourhood

Celebrating St George

Bike registration

‘Step out for Stroke’ walk

Advice on welfare reforms

Young people from the Making a Difference (MAD) Youth Club held a session to register bikes under the Immobilise scheme.

It means that if their bike is ever stolen, they stand a better chance of getting it back.

Each bike was marked with a tamper proof serial number as part of the UK National Property Registration scheme. It was funded by a £500 grant to the United Residents Group from the United Utilities Community Fund.

The MAD Youth Club meets at Huyton Parish Church Hall on Tuesdays and Thursdays and is for six to 11-year-olds.

For more information about the club, please ring07564 922 316.

South Huyton

People of all ages ‘stepped out for stroke’ at a charity walk in Court Hey Park last month.

The sponsored family walk aimed to raise money for The Stroke Association and increase awareness of strokes within Knowsley.

Local organisers worked alongside the borough’s Green Space Rangers, who encouraged members of Court Hey’s regular walking group to join in the fundraising efforts.

St George’s Day was marked with a festival at McGoldrick Park.

Families enjoyed a funfair and displays as well as a series of stalls at the event, organised by St Gabriel’s Neighbourhood Network.

There was also a tug of war competition with £100 donation made to the charity of the winner’s choice.

Faith and community leaders got together to discuss the effect of welfare reforms on local people.

Representatives from the Department of Work and Pensions, Knowsley Council, Enterprise Credit Union and Knowsley Housing Trust met at St Gabriel’s Church to review the key challenges for residents.

Local church leaders wanted to be better informed of the issues so they could help and advise parishioners who were worried about the changes.

Contact usYou can drop into the South Huyton office

to tell us about incidents of anti-social behaviour, litter problems or anything else

you think we could help sort out.

You will find us at the One Stop Shop,Municipal Buildings, Archway Road,

Huyton L36 9YU

Telephone: 443 3047

Boost forallotment groupGreen-fingered residents who grow vegetables on a shared allotment have had a £500 boost from the United Utilities Community Fund.

The Little Diggers group meets every Wednesday at the allotment at the back of the Old School House on St John’s Road.

As well as growing vegetables such as sweetcorn, carrots and onions, the group has a flower garden and bench where they enjoy a cuppa and a chat.

The funding has paid for new tools and secure storage.

Anyone interested in finding out more can contact Karen on 443 3114.Members of the Little Diggers group on

the allotment

Young people from the MAD Youth

Club with their bikes


Your neighbourhood

North Huyton

Contact usYou can drop into the North Huyton office

to tell us about incidents of anti-social behaviour, litter problems or anything else

you think we could help sort out.

You will find us at the One Stop Shop,Municipal Buildings, Archway Road,

Huyton L36 9YU

Telephone: 443 3047

Pupils learn a lesson about dogs

Local music group takes to the stage

Fun at Jubilee ParkPupils at Stockbridge Village Primary School are taking a lead when it comes to looking after their dogs.

Knowsley Council’s Environment Officer Kirsty Martin gave an assembly about how to look after dogs responsibly and stop them fouling the pavements and parks.

It followed a number of complaints from parents about dog dirt in the green spaces around the school.

Before the assembly, around 100 pupils had produced posters demonstrating how they look after their pet dogs.

Kirsty chose a winner from each class group and presented them with dog bone-shaped ‘poop bag’ dispensers, to help them lookafter their dogs responsibly.

Play workers are inviting families to join a range of fun activities at Jubilee Park.

Sessions are held every Tuesday from 2.30pm to 4.30pm during term-time and 11am to 3pm during school holidays at the Jubilee Park Pavilion.

Activities include fun sessions for children such as football coaching and forest school, as well as training, keep fit and craft sessions for parents.

For more information or to help out as a volunteer, ring Kathy Strong on 07920 708 411.

Stockbridge Village-based En-Chord music group has wowed audiences at a gig in Liverpool city centre.

Group members took to the stage at The Picket venue, where they performed10 songs.

The En-Chord group of musicians and performers are supported by Knowsley Council and meets every week.

If you’re aged 13 to 19 and would like to get involved with En-Chord, email [email protected] or ring 443 5618.

Steven Gerrard with Cllr Eddie Connor, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Leisure, Community and Culture; and Lisa Harris, Knowsley Council’s Director of Regeneration and Housing

Work begins on new homes

The £14.4 million Bluebell Park development, managed by Knowsley Housing Trust in partnership with Knowsley Council, is being constructed on the site of the former Wingate Towers flats by contractors Bullocks Construction.

When completed in spring next year, it will provide 122 one or two bedroom apartments for older people in need of extra care and support to allow them to live independently.

Steven said,

Home grown hero, Liverpool FC’s Steven Gerrard, popped back to the Bluebell Estate to mark the start of work on new housing for the over 55s.

Anyone who is interested in finding out more about the Bluebell Park development can visit www.bluebellapartments.co.uk

It’s great to see they are improving the area, and this will create many more jobs for people locally as well.

Pupils with their prizes presented after the poster competition


South Kirkby

Contact usYou can ring the South Kirkby

office to tell us about incidents ofanti-social behaviour, litter problemsor anything else you think we could

help sort out.

Telephone: 443 4166

Cadets row around the world

Fire Fit is a hit with kids

Garagemakeoverat Field Lane

A bumper harvest

Kirkby Sea Cadets joined young people around the UK in a bid to row around the world in 80 hours.

The cadets took part in the challenge to raise vital funds to help replace their ageing tall ship TS Royalist.

White Man’s Dam at Lord Derby’s Estate was the venue for the local effort when cadets from across north Liverpool rowed 870 miles towards the national target.

Kirkby school children are keeping fit and staying safe by taking part in a scheme run by Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service.

The Fire Fit initiative has seen firefighters based at St Michael and All Angels Catholic Primary School in Westvale and St Laurence’s Catholic Primary School in Southdene.

Over the past year, officers have been working with children at both schools organising health and fitness activities, as well as promoting fire safety messages.

The sessions will conclude with the schools’ involvement in the Fire Fit Active Challenge, which will see schools across Merseyside taking part in an Olympics-style event in July. The event is being staged in conjunction with the Merseyside Sports Partnership.

Fun food sessionsYoung people in Southdene have been taking part in fun food workshops staged for the first time in Kirkby by the Junior Chef’s Academy.

Pupils from St Laurence’s Catholic Primary School developed their culinary skills and food knowledge at the healthy eating sessions led by acclaimed head chef Paul Cooper.

After

Before

Your neighbourhood

Kirkby Sea Cadets in action

Green-fingered growers are looking forward to a bumper harvest of fruit and vegetables - thanks to a £5,000 funding boost.

Delaware Allotments Group, members of the Hindu Temple in Southdene and St Michael and All Angels Community Garden have all benefited from the funding, which helped to buy gardening equipment and top soil to cultivate their plots.

Joint action by Knowsley and Liverpool councils has tackled a notorious black spot on the Field Lane estate.

Residents living around Hawksmoor Road have had their neighbourhood blighted by a block of garages which have fallen into disrepair and become a magnet for vandals, fly-tippers and litter bugs.

As the garages are on the border of Liverpool and Knowsley, both councils, along with the Probation Service, joined forces to transform the area. They removed all rubbish as well as boarding up and painting the garages.


North Kirkby

Your neighbourhood

Contact usYou can ring the North Kirkby

office to tell us about incidents ofanti-social behaviour, litter problemsor anything else you think we could

help sort out.

Telephone: 443 4166

Communitycomes togetherfor Big Lunch

Enjoy Golden Years at Northwood

Full marks forbudding business

Big Local updateNorthwood’s Big Local programme is now open for business. After 18 months of planning, the area has now received £1 million of Big Lottery funding.

The money will be spent over the next 10 years on a range of projects to make Northwood a better place to live.

Current Big Local projects include initiatives to help with the impact of the Government’s welfare reforms, as well as ‘Community Chest’ grants of up to £250 for local projects.

Residents can also visit a Big Local website, www.northwoodbiglocal.co.uk, Facebook and Twitter for updates on the latest activity. Anyone wanting to get involved can contact Jeff on 443 4345.

The young entrepreneurs - who have launched a business called Royal Heart Design - got through to the national final of the Young Entrepreneurs Programme, a scheme to seek out the most business savvy young people in schools.

Although they didn’t win, the team bowled over spectators

and fellow competitors with their knowledge, maturity and professionalism.

The pupils were in the spotlight again at the Merseyside Company Young Enterprise Final, competing for a place in the North West regional final.

The team’s budding business usesa manufacturing process knownas sublimation to producehigh-quality personalised mugs, t-shirts and keyrings.

There is a new group for the over 55s in Northwood.

The Golden Years group meets at Northwood Community Centre every Thursday between 11am and 1pm.

There are a range of activities on offer including chair-based exercise, bocce (similar to bowls), kurling, pool, music and much more.

Golden Years is the latest initiative launched by the IKAN team who also run the Happy Hours group at Tower Hill Community Centre.

The Big Lunch came to Kirkby in June with a day of celebration, friendship and fun at All Saints Catholic Centre for Learning.

The Mad Hatter’s tea party-themed event featured fancy dress fun from local school children, as well as a range of exciting activities and interactive workshops. Budding soccer stars enjoyed soccer skills classes provided by Everton in the Community.

A group of pupils at All Saints Catholic Centre for Learning have their hearts set on successful careers in business.

All Saints’ young entrepreneurs

Residents have fun at the Golden Years group


Contact usYou can drop into the Halewood office to tell us about incidents of anti-social

behaviour, litter problems or anything else you think we could help sort out.

You will find us at New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre, Lichfield

Road, Halewood L26 1TT

Telephone: 443 2175

Your neighbourhood

Our friends from xxxxx

Halewood

Makeover for village hall Summer fun atHalewood Centrefor Learning

Jubilee Village Hall in Tarbock has been given a new lease of life after an all-over makeover!

The transformation was carried out as part of Merseyside Probation Service’s Community Payback scheme.

Theme nights are a hitThemed events for people with disabilities and their carers have proven extremely popular at the New Hutte Neighbourhood Centre.

Organised by Torrington Drive Community Association, the social events include a variety of games and

activities around themes such as St Patrick’s Day.

The last four events have also been attended by visitors from the Brain Injury Rehabilitation Trust, and more events are planned for the future.

For more information, ring 07594 367 910.

Parents interested in finding out what’s on at Halewood Children’s Centre can now go online.

The centre’s new website,www.halewoodchildrenscentre.co.uk, has launched in time for parents wanting to find out about summer holiday activities.

Details of services available to children and families in the Halewood area are also on the website.

Halewood footballers recently welcomedfriends from Ballinasloe, Ireland, for theirannual tournament.

Each year the teams take it in turns to play either at home or away in the competition, organised by Halewood Town Sports Association.

A series of games for the ‘Friendship Cup’ took place at the Arncliffe Centre.

There’s plenty going on this summer for young people and adults alike at Halewood Centre for Learning.

Whether it’s badminton, football, arts & crafts or Healthy Heroes, there’s something for everyone.

You can even hold children’s birthday parties at the centre. There are themes including sports, football, multi-activity, pirate or inflatable parties.

For more information, please contact Debbie Rose on 07825 677 159 or email [email protected] You can also contact Gina Higham on 443 2127 or [email protected]

Children’s centre now online

Our friends from Ballinasloe

As well as painting both inside and out, major improvements have been made to the outside area.

If you are interested in hiring the hall for a function, call Tarbock Jubilee Committee on 07746 123 855 or email [email protected]

Mayor of Halewood, Cllr Gary See (back), with Halewood and Ballinasloe squads and their trophies


Contact usYou can ring the neighbourhoodoffice to tell us about incidents of

anti-social behaviour, litter problemsor anything else you think we could

help sort out.

Telephone: 443 5208

Your neighbourhood

Prescot, Whiston, Cronton and Knowsley Village

Wishes granted for St Anne’s Well

Prescot CarnivalPrescot Town Council is looking for community involvement in this year’s Prescot Carnival.

The carnival will take place on Sunday 1 September from 12 noon to 4pm, on Browns Field off Carr Lane and Wood Lane. It will feature the usual funfair, stalls, games and entertainment.

The town council will be reviving a much-loved tradition by having a

Alder Springs Ltd is a private business based in Cronton that sources its water from the catchment area of St Anne’s Well.

Will Cook, Chairman of Cronton Parish Council, said, “We are delighted to be working with Alder

walking parade this year. It will be led by the Mayor of Prescot and is scheduled to start at Cables Retail Park at 11.30am and arrive at Browns Field by 12 noon to officially open the carnival.

If you are part of a community group who would like to join the parade, the town council would love to hear from you. Ring 443 4796 or email [email protected]

Cronton Parish Council and Alder Springs Ltd have signed a formal agreement to preserve and improve the local historical site of St Anne’s Well in Cronton.

Visit Prescot’s HeritageSt Mary’s Parish Church in Prescot is inviting residents to take a look around this historic building that is steeped in heritage.

The church is the only Grade I listed building in the borough, and dates back to around 1610. Free Heritage Open Days are being held at the church from Friday 13 to Sunday 15 September. Visitors will have the chance to admire the Jacobean ceiling and panelling, the Saxon front and the other unique architecture of the building.

For more information, please ring 426 8113.

Springs on a site of such local significance.”

Sharon Morphet from Alder Springs added, “Giving something back to the community is important to us and is a vital part of our corporate social responsibility programme.”

L-R: Ian Watson (Cronton Parish Council), Kevin Bellis and Sharon Morphet (Alder Springs Ltd) and Will Cook (Cronton Parish Council)

On their bikes...The Prescot Community Network have recently donated funds to Merseyside Police to help purchase and maintain a new bicycle to patrol the area.

Denis Mitcheson, Chairman, said, “We work locally with partner agencies and the community to resolve local issues and we thought the purchase of a bike would help the police continue their excellent work in the area.”

In total, four bikes have been purchased with combined funds from Family Voices, the Mayor of Prescot’s Charity fund and Knowsley Safari Park.

Sergeant Chris Williams, said, “We wish to offer our sincerest thanks. This is another excellent example of how local partnership working can improve the community.”

L-R: Ged Halliday (Prescot Community

Network); PCSTO Mike Kokolay; Sgt. Chris

Williams and Chairman Denis Mitcheson

What’s on

Saturday 22 June

Hockey for Heroes family celebration eventKirkby Sports College10am to 4pmFamily open day including mixed hockey tournament, caged soccer, inflatable assault course, charity stalls and more.Contact: Donna Hall 07810 054 100

Tuesday 25 June

Bat nightHalewood Park9.30pm until lateCome along and learn all about these amazing flying mammals. Enjoy a talk followed by a walk through the park to find these fascinating creatures. Please bring a torch if possible.Contact: Ranger 488 6151

Wednesday 26 June, Wednesday 24 July and Wednesday 21 August

Trail raceStadt Moers Park7pm startCome along and take part in any of the three races (2k, 3k and 8k) across rolling terrain.Cost: £3 per race (discounted rates for athletics club members)Contact: Rangers 489 1239

Saturday 29 June

Bowls taster sessionJubilee Park10am to12 noonTry your hand at bowling. All equipment provided.Contact: Ranger 488 6151 or 07766 205 541

Saturday 29 June

Balloon makingWebster Park1pm to 3pmTry your hand at balloon model making.Contact: Ranger 07810 054 159

Sunday 30 June

Bowring Park gala dayBowring Park11am to 5pmA celebration for the whole family including circus skills, crafts, fairground rides and a Chinese dragon display. Contact: Friends of Bowring Park 482 1116

Sunday 30 June and Monday 19 August

Pond dipSunday 30 June - Huyton WetlandsMonday 19 August - Halewood Park1pm to 3pmCome and see what lurks beneath the water at the wetlands. All equipment provided. Children must be accompanied by an adult.Contact: Ranger 488 6151 or 07766 205 541

Friday 5 July

Hear my voice Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park 7pm to 9pm A celebration of singing involving groups from across the Merseyside Region.Cost: £5 / £3 concessionsContact: 443 5749

Sunday 7 July, Monday 5 August and Sunday15 September

BushcraftHalewood Park1pm to 3pmA chance to learn some new skills in the great outdoors. Suitable for families. Please call to book a place. Contact: Ranger 488 6151

Saturday 27 July

Roller disco Knowsley Leisure & Culture Park 2pm to 4pm (all ages); 5pm to 7pm (all ages); 7.30pm to 9.30pm (over 18s)A fun and funky roller disco with the latest music. Ticket price includes hire of roller skates – personal roller skates not permitted. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. Licensed bar available for over 18s session.Tickets: £6 each; family tickets £20 (two adults + two children) Contact: Carla Simkin 443 5353

Sunday 28 July

Kite makingWebster Park1pm to 3pmTry your hand at kite making.Contact: Ranger 07810 054 159

Monday 29 July

OrienteeringCourt Hey Park2pm to 4pmTry your hand at orienteering. Get your map and find clues in the park using your powers of observation! Prizes for those who finish the course. Contact: Ranger 443 3114 or 07771 550 843

Monday 29 July to Saturday 16 November

Travels with Turner exhibitionKirkby GalleryA series of rarely seen prints by Joseph M Turner - a much-loved romantic English artist. Complementing the collection will be photographs of locations across Knowsley taken by local photographer Ian Hewitt. Exhibition also includes fun, hands-on activities for families to enjoy. Contact: Tina Ball 443 5617

Thursday 1 August, Thursday 8 August and Friday 23 August

Wildlife discoveryKGV Dell 1pm to 3.30pm1 August – trees (magic, legend and folklore)8 August – wonderful wildflowers23 August – butterflies and mothsAn afternoon of wildlife-themed discovery with games, quizzes and prizes. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential. Meet at 1pm outside the entrance to KingGeorge V Leisure Centre.Contact: Ranger on 488 6151 or 07766 205 541

Saturday 3 August

McGoldrick Park fun dayMcGoldrick Park12 noon to 4pmAn afternoon of fun for all the family including H&M Dog display team, circus skills, fairground rides, birds of prey, face painting and more. Contact: Ranger 443 3114 or 07771 550 843

Meetings in Knowsley

Council Wednesday 26 June, 6pm Wednesday 18 September, 6pm

Cabinet Wednesday 10 July, 2pm Wednesday 7 August, 2pm Wednesday 11 September, 2pm

Planning Committee Thursday 11 July, 6pm Thursday 8 August, 6pm Thursday 12 September, 6pm

Appeals Committee Tuesday 2 July, 10am Tuesday 27 August, 10am

Licensing Committee Thursday 27 June, 2pm Thursday 5 September, 2pm

Governance and Audit Committee Tuesday 25 June, 4pm

Town Centre (and Districts) Committee Wednesday 3 July, 4.30pm

Joint Consultative Committee Friday 5 July, 10am

Halewood Area Partnership Board Tuesday 16 July, 6pm

Huyton Area Partnership Board Wednesday 17 July, 4pm

Kirkby Area Partnership Board Thursday 18 July, 4pm

Prescot, Whiston, Cronton and Knowsley Village Area Partnership Board Wednesday 19 June, 2pm Wednesday 24 July, 2pm

Area Partnership Board Co-ordinating Group Monday 1 July, 2pm

Overview and Scrutiny Board Monday 8 July, 5pm Monday 19 August, 5pm

Health and Wellbeing Board Thursday 19 September, 1.30pm

Events


Thursday 15 August and Saturday 17 August

Wildlife discovery Huyton Wetlands1pm to 3.30pmThursday - pond lifeSaturday - spidersAn afternoon of wildlife-themed discovery with games, quizzes and prizes. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Booking is essential. Contact: Ranger on 488 6151 7766 205 541

Monday 19 to Saturday 24 August

A passion for KirkbyKirkby town centre12 noon to 4pm each dayA week of family fun days including live music, bouncy castles, caged football, face painting, BBQ and more.Contact: Graham Peel 07764 488 724

Tuesday 20 August

Scavenger huntStadt Moers Park1pm to 3pmSee what things you can find while you stroll through the park. Contact: Rangers 489 1239

Wednesday 21 August

Teddy bears’ picnicMcGoldrick Park1pm to 3pmBring your teddy for anafternoon of fun with apuppet show, balloonmaking, face painting andmore. Prizes for child in best fancydress and best dressed teddy.Contact: Ranger 443 3114 or 07771 550 843

What’s on

Wednesday 7 August

Beginners orienteering Stadt Moers Park1pm to 3pmTest your map reading skills in this orienteering challenge.Contact: Rangers 489 1239

Saturday 10 August

Memorial Park fun dayMemorial Park12 noon to 4pmAn afternoon of fun for the whole family including face painting, bouncy castles and more.Contact: Ranger 07810 054 159

Monday 12 August

Minibeast huntHalewood Park1pm to 3pm Join us for a rummage through the undergrowth to see what creatures are hiding there. All equipment provided. Contact: Ranger 488 6151

Tuesday 13 August and Tuesday 20 August

Archery skills andbow makingCourt Hey Park11am to 3pmTry your hand at bow making,bushcraft or archery. Only suitablefor children over seven years of age.Children must be accompanied byan adult.Contact: Ranger 443 3114 or 07771 550 843

Saturday 24 August

Webster Park fun dayWebster Park12 noon to 4pmAn afternoon of fun for the whole family including face painting, bouncy castles and more.Contact: Ranger 07810 054 159

Friday 6 September and Friday 13 September

Bat talk and walk6 September - Ten Acre Pits13 September - Court Hey Park7.30pm start (both days)Come and learn all about bats. Enjoy a short talk followed by a walk in the park using bat detectors to find and identify these elusive creatures. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Please bringa torch.Contact: Ranger 443 3114 or 07771 550 843

Saturday 14 September

Pet showCourt Hey Park1pm Bring along your pets and enter them in the show. Categories for all shapes and sizes. Please arrive by 1pm for registration.Contact: Ranger 443 3114 or 07771 550 843

Every Monday and Tuesday during school summer holidays

‘Make it Mondays’ and ‘try something Tuesdays’Mondays - Prescot Centre activity roomTuesdays - Kirkby Gallery1pm to 4pmThe whole family are invited to bring out their creative side in this fun art workshop.Contact: Tina Ball 443 5617

For a full listing of all upcoming events, please visit the council’s website.

Useful numbers

Anti-Social Behaviour Helpline 443 2000

Benefits (housing and council tax) 443 4042

Births/deaths/marriages 443 2900

Building control/dangerous trees 443 2380 / 2381

Bulky household waste service 443 2400

Business rates 443 4089

Business services 477 4000 (advice, funding, recruitment and training)

Car parking enquiries 443 3100

Childcare Information Service 0800 085 2022

Citizens Advice Bureau 0845 122 1300

Complaints and compliments 443 4031

Consumer advice/Trading Standards 08454 040506

Council tax 443 4476

Council Tax and Benefits Fraud Hotline 0800 0730 532

Crimestoppers 0800 555 111

Education general enquiries 443 3232

Fire/police/ambulance (emergency) 999

Government’s Consumer Direct Service 08454 04 05 06

Highways (including emergencies) 443 2400

Housing Options (homelessness) 0800 694 0280

Job vacancies 443 5000

Knowsley Community Messaging 443 2498

Knowsley Council (general enquiries) 489 6000

Knowsley Hate Crime and Domestic Violence Helpline 0800 953 4433

Knowsley Housing Trust (KHT) general enquiries 290 7000

Knowsley Housing Trust (KHT) housing repairs 0500 969694

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Switchboard 296 4000

Merseyside Police Switchboard 101

NHS Direct 0845 4647

Pest control 443 2400

Planning enquiries 443 2381 / 2380

Refuse collection 443 2400

School attendance service 443 5147

School bus pass 443 5609

Social services 443 2600

Social services out of hours emergency 07659 590081

Street lighting 443 3100

Traffic signal faults 443 2349

Truancy hotline 777 4057 For more information visit the Knowsley Council website www.knowsley.gov.uk or email [email protected]


Knowsley welcomesback The Tourof Britain

Tuesday 17 September from 12 noonOver one hundred of the world’s top cyclists will be competing against the clock for the Stage 3 individual time trial.

Where will you be watching?

To find out more, visit the council’s website.

The Avenue

20 2 - metropolitan borough of knowsley · cllr john b greer labour (park) telephone: ......

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