town council matters
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8-9 Facilities and Services
15 Carbon Reduction
14 Mill Park Improvements
17 In the Spotlight
Bracknell MATTERS
BracknellTown Council
August 2021
In this edition
Bracknell Town Council T: 01344 420079 F: 01344 424015 enquiries@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.ukBrooke House, 54 High Street, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG12 1LL
www.bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
Photograph of North Lake by Claire Moor
Don’t forget to vote in the Bracknell Town Neighbourhood Plan Referendum on 9th September 2021 – see pages 10 and 11.
WelcomeContentsWhether you are new to the area or a long time Bracknell resident, welcome to the first printed version of our new look Bracknell Matters!
We have an innovative design and an exciting edition packed with lots of interesting content about Bracknell Town Council. You can find useful information about our services and facilities, as well as news and updates on events and the local environment inside each edition.
The last 16 months have been a different and challenging time, but as we slowly and cautiously return to the world we once knew we look forward to sharing Bracknell Town Council’s achievements with you all.
This is our first printed edition of the new look Bracknell Matters following on from our successful online version in August 2020. Going forward we plan to publish four editions: three will be electronic editions and one will be delivered to 22,000 homes in the Parish of Bracknell Town.
The majority of our facilities have re-opened, a full list of our facilities and services can be found inside. The splash pads are already proving very popular and our Mini Golf at Jocks Lane has had an upgrade for summer 2021.
The Bracknell Town Neighbourhood Plan has been completed and goes out to referendum on the 9th September 2021. Please don’t forget to vote. Full details can be found on our website.
2 Bracknell Town Council Bracknell Matters - August 2021 Bracknell Town Council Bracknell Matters - August 2021 3
You can always catch up on the latest news and upcoming events by following Bracknell Town Council on Facebook and Twitter or on the website where you can always find our most current Bracknell Matters and up to date information. If you would like to receive all of the online Bracknell Matters editions via email, please contact enquiries@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
We hope you enjoy the new design of the Bracknell Matters and we hope to see you at events in the not too distant future.
Best wishes,
Jackie Burgess
Bracknell Town Clerk
www.bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
Bracknell Town Council3 Welcome4 Our Councillors5 Conversation with a Councillor – Chris Turrell6 Conversation with a Councillor – Mary Temperton
What We Do7 Parks and Play Areas8-9 Facilities and Services
Neighbourhood Plan10-11 Bracknell Town Neighbourhood Plan
Bracknell Town Mayor12 Bracknell Town Mayor 2021-2022 Sanjeev Prasad
Nature and Environment13 Recreational Facilities Manager14 Mill Park Improvements15 Carbon Reduction16 Environment Warden
Community17 In the Spotlight18 Bracknell Bowls Club19 Kids’ Corner
WildridingsTown Centre
Our Councillors
4 Bracknell Town Council Bracknell Matters - August 2021
Garth Birch Hill Bullbrook
Jennie Greenjennie.green@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Mike Gibsonmike.gibson@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Sanjeev Prasadsanjeev.prasad@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
David Robertsdavid.roberts@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Alvin Finchalvin.finch@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
Gill Birchgill.birch@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
Ian Kirkeian.kirke@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
Crown Wood Great Hollands North Great Hollands South
Danielle Turnerdanielle.turner@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Kathryn Neilkathryn.neil@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Lizzy Gibsonlizzy.gibson@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
James Alexanderjames.alexander@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Marc Brunel-Walkermarc.brunelwalker@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Mary Tempertonmary.temperton@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Michael Gbadebomichael.gbadebo@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Hanworth
Michael Skinnermichael.skinner@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Anna Kempsteranna.kempster@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Priestwood
Michael Titheridgemichael.titheridge@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Paul Bidwellpaul.bidwell@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Harmans Water
Isabel Mattickisabel.mattick@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Ash Merryash.merry@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
Chris Turrellchris.turrell@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Old Bracknell
Peter Heydonpeter.heydon@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Malcolm Tullettmalcolm.tullett@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Stuart Fostonstuart.foston@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Paul Byronpaul.byron@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
Thomas Parkerthomas.parker@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Diana Henfreydiana.henfrey@bracknell
towncouncil.gov.uk
Bracknell Town Council Bracknell Matters - August 2021 5
Conversation with a Councillor:
CouncillorChris Turrell
Protecting green space at The Parks and the new pavilion at Great Hollands.
How long have you lived in Bracknell? I have lived in Bracknell since 1993, and have always been lucky enough to live near one of our open spaces. Bracknell Town Council manages most of these.
What made you want to become a Councillor? Wanting to help keep Bracknell a good place to live, and to make improvements where we get the chance.
What is your favourite thing about Bracknell? Easy – its plentiful green spaces! Certainly a big plus in this last year.
What are your passions and hobbies? I like being able to walk outdoors and see different places. I also belong to the National Trust.
What is your career background? I work in the Hotel industry.
If you could change one thing about Bracknell what would it be and why? I would find effective ways to stop littering, although Bracknell is better than most places.
On a personal level what are your highpoints or best achievements in your life to date? Maintaining links and good relations with friends and family.
As a Councillor what is the most satisfying thing you have been involved with? So far: Planning decisions to protect green space at The Parks; the new pavilion at Great Hollands and the Jubilee fireworks. I am also proud of continuing improvements to play areas.
How do you engage with the residents in the community? Pre-covid, it included leaflets and surgeries. Now, more emphasis on being informally out and about, and virtual meetings. Emails and phone calls have been a constant means of communication both ways.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What do you hope to have achieved? Hopefully, still on the Council, with further improvements made to facilities and protection of green spaces through the Neighbourhood Plan.
What We Do Bracknell Matters - August 2021 76 Bracknell Town Council Bracknell Matters - August 2021
Parks and Play AreasBracknell Town Council maintains 33 parks and play areas. Our play areas cater for a wide range of ages from toddlers to teenagers. Our play equipment is regularly inspected and is subject to a schedule of refurbishment and repainting. You can find a full list of our sites including playing fields, sports pitches and allotments on our website.
www.bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk/recreation-facilities/council-sites
Great Hollands
• Jurassic Park (East Lodge)• Great Hollands Recreation Ground• Home Farm• Ullswater• Winscombe• Yardley
Hanworth & Birch Hill
• Birch Hill Recreational Ground• Hedgehog Park (Birch Hill)• Dryden Woods• Latimer• Ludlow• Quintilis
Harmans Water & Crown Wood
• Calfridus Way• Crown Row/Leaves Green• Cumnor Way• Harmans Water Road• Oareborough• Nettlecombe• Nuthurst
Old Bracknell (Easthampstead)
• South Hill Road• The Green• North Lake
Wildridings
• Ennerdale• Mill Park• Threshfield
Bullbrook
• Bullbrook Drive• The Elms Park• Freeborn Way
Priestwood & Garth
• Braybrooke Recreation Ground• Jocks Lane Park• Pollardrow Avenue• Stoney Road• Anneforde Place
Photograph of Mill Pond by Georgia Barnbrook
Conversation with a Councillor:
CouncillorMary TempertonHow long have you lived in Bracknell? I have lived in Bracknell for over fifty years. I moved here when my husband joined the Met Office, following University.
What made you want to become a Councillor? I have always been involved in Community life wherever I have lived, wanting to do my part to support and make a difference. Being a Councillor has helped me get things done and enables me to feel a big part of the Community.
What is your favourite thing about Bracknell? My favourite thing about Bracknell Town area is the green spaces, the recreation grounds – all the legacy of the Development Corporation that gave a play area within ten minutes of every house. It is a superb place for families.
What are your passions and hobbies? During my spare time, I walk the dog I share with my daughter’s family, work on my allotment (pretending I know what I am doing!) and I read, read, read.
What is your career background? I was a teacher for 32 years, spending 22 of them at Easthampstead Park School. I taught all the Sciences, but Chemistry is my love. I am still a Governor at the school – a real privilege enabling me to still be involved in education.
If you could change one thing about Bracknell what would it be and why? The one thing I would love to change about Bracknell is to find a solution to parking on our estates.
On a personal level what are your highpoints or best achievements in your life to date? My best achievement and high point must be my years as a teacher. I taught so many who are still residents in Bracknell. Whenever we meet, there is always a smile, laughter and exchange of a happy memory. It is really lovely for me to share these moments. I loved teaching and it seems my students found my lessons fun and remember them – what more could any teacher ask?! I love being a mum and a Nanna. I also really enjoy being a Councillor in the Community.
As a Councillor what is the most satisfying thing you have been involved with? As a Councillor, one of the most important things I supported was, and is, South Hill Park. I was Chair of the Bracknell Town Council – we did not have a Mayor in those days – when the Theatre opened. I have also enjoyed seeing that the recreation grounds and play areas are well maintained and refurbished. I also proposed the TV grant scheme to enable older residents to have a ‘slice of the cake’ their rates support.
How do you engage with the residents in the community? I keep in touch with my residents by walking the estates, regular newsletters, regular surgeries and door knocking. I am always here.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? What do you hope to have achieved? In 5 years I hope I will still have the passion and ability to continue to work hard to make a difference. I hope we will all be committed to reducing our carbon footprint. There is still so much to do.
I loved teaching and it seems my students found my lessons fun and remember them – what more could any teacher ask?!
Facilities and Services
Sports Pitch HireGreen SpacesBracknell Parks Tennis
Offices and DepotsFishing Permits Bus SheltersTV Grant SchemeEvents Education
Bus SheltersMini Golf
Annual GrantsHalls
Focus on… Coffee ShopsBracknell Town Council has two coffee shops which are part of Great Hollands and Jocks Lane Pavilions. We provide a variety of cold and hot drinks, ice creams and snacks. BTC is making a move to promote healthier food choices and soon the coffee shops will be selling pre-packed healthy children’s lunch boxes including a sandwich and snacks such as fruit and raisins.
Special offers will be promoted at the coffee shops over the year so keep an eye out for posters. Both coffee shops now accept card payments.
Keep an eye
on BTC social
media pages for
up to date offers
and opening times.
Bracknell TownCouncilBracknell Town Council’s (BTC) focus is maintaining 33 parks and green spaces across 12 wards in Bracknell. BTC aims to ensure there is plenty of quality green land and natural areas in Bracknell for years to come.
HallsBraybrooke Recreation Ground, Great Hollands Recreation Ground and Jocks Lane each offer large, bright halls for hire. BTC offer inexpensive hire for many events including parties, funeral wakes and conferences. Jocks Lane can hold up to 60 people and the other halls can hold up to 80.
Office and DepotsThere is one main depot where Grounds Staff and the Recreational Facilities Manager are based with smaller depots dotted around Bracknell. The main BTC office and Council Chamber can be found at Brooke House in Bracknell High Street.
Green SpacesBTC manages 33 green spaces which includes football and rugby pitches, astro turf and tennis courts. All of these can be booked by contacting the office. BTC has several allotment sites but due to high demand the waiting list is currently four years. Enjoy our green spaces and play areas but please take your litter home with you to keep our wildlife safe.
Annual GrantsEvery year BTC award grants to applicants from local community groups, charities or businesses. The grant application process closes in October every year and application forms can be found on our website.
EventsBTC organises the Spring Event, Teddy Bears’ Picnic and other events on many other special occasions. All of the Parish and Town Councils in Bracknell Forest team together to organise and fund the Summer of Fun events across many parks. Check our social media and website for planned events.
Garden Waste SacksBTC sell garden waste sacks for £1.10 at the office in Bracknell High Street. You can book the collection of these sacks from Bracknell Forest Council if you call 01344 352000.
TV Grant SchemeBTC offers a grant of up to £30 for people who meet the below criteria:
• Be of State Pension Age (proof of age will be required)
• Be in receipt of Pension Credit (proof of entitlement letter will be required), full details can be found at www.gov.uk/pension-credit/eligibility
• Have lived in Bracknell for a least one year (Utility bill/bank statement will be required)
• AND NOT be in receipt of a free TV Licence or a blind (severely sight impaired) 50% concession.
Mini GolfMini Golf is available at Jocks Lane Recreation Ground for a small fee which you can pay in the coffee shop.
Bus SheltersBTC provides and maintains the bus shelters in Bracknell which have domed rooftops and no adverts.
EducationThe Environment Wardens visit schools and are present in Bracknell Town Council parks to educate the public on certain topics such as responsible dog ownership, litter, anti-social behaviour and wildlife conservation.
Hall HireHall hire is available at Braybrooke Community Hall, Jocks Lane Pavilion and Great Hollands Pavilion. A £50 deposit is required upon booking with the office with full payment required two weeks before the booking. Terms and conditions can be found on the BTC website.
Sports Pitch HireHire of sports pitches is available at multiple sites across Bracknell including football, rugby, tennis and hockey. Booking is essential, contact the office to enquire.
Fishing PermitsFishing permits for Jeans’ Pond at Braybrooke Community Hall are available on the link to Braybrooke Nature and Fishing Club via our website.
PhotocopyingBTC can make copies of your document for a small fee at the office.
Bracknell Parks TennisYou can book a tennis court at Jocks Lane and Great Hollands Recreation Grounds via our website. You will receive a code for the gate upon booking.
8 What We Do Bracknell Matters - August 2021 What We Do Bracknell Matters - August 2021 9
For more details on any BTC services contact: 01344 420079 or email enquiries@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
or visit the office at Brooke House, 54 High Street, Bracknell
10 Neighbourhood Plan Bracknell Matters - August 2021 Neighbourhood Plan Bracknell Matters - August 2021 11
DDeeaarr RReessiiddeenntt,, The Bracknell Town Neighbourhood Plan Referendum will be on 9th September 2021 Here is the plan’s index:
1 Contents 2 Introduction
3 ENVIRONMENT AND COMMUNITY EV 1 Open Space of Public Value EV 2 Protection & Maintenance of Local Green Space EV 3 Tree Heritage: Avenues of Trees EV 4 Protection of Trees EV 5 New Tree Planting EV 6 Allotments EV 7 Cemetery Space EV 8 Watercourses & River Corridors EV 9 Air Quality EV 10 Arts Centre: South Hill Park EV 11 Colocation of Community Facilities EV 12 Protection of Community Facilities
4 HERITAGE HE 1 Protection of Parks & of Parkland Features of Historic Parks & Gardens HE 2 Protection of the settings of Heritage Assets HE 3 Protection of Heritage Assets
5 HOUSING AND CHARACTER
HO 1 Infill & Backland Development HO 2 Houses in Multiple Occupation HO 3 Driveways & Hardstandings on Front Gardens HO 4 Managing the Streetscape HO 5 Private Gardens: Green Space Biodiversity Corridors HO 6 Buildings: Energy Efficiency & Generation HO 7 Buildings: Local Character HO 8 Buildings: Good Quality Design
DDeeaarr RReessiiddeenntt,, The Bracknell Town Neighbourhood Plan Referendum will be on 9th September 2021 Here is the plan’s index:
1 Contents 2 Introduction
3 ENVIRONMENT AND COMMUNITY EV 1 Open Space of Public Value EV 2 Protection & Maintenance of Local Green Space EV 3 Tree Heritage: Avenues of Trees EV 4 Protection of Trees EV 5 New Tree Planting EV 6 Allotments EV 7 Cemetery Space EV 8 Watercourses & River Corridors EV 9 Air Quality EV 10 Arts Centre: South Hill Park EV 11 Colocation of Community Facilities EV 12 Protection of Community Facilities
4 HERITAGE HE 1 Protection of Parks & of Parkland Features of Historic Parks & Gardens HE 2 Protection of the settings of Heritage Assets HE 3 Protection of Heritage Assets
5 HOUSING AND CHARACTER
HO 1 Infill & Backland Development HO 2 Houses in Multiple Occupation HO 3 Driveways & Hardstandings on Front Gardens HO 4 Managing the Streetscape HO 5 Private Gardens: Green Space Biodiversity Corridors HO 6 Buildings: Energy Efficiency & Generation HO 7 Buildings: Local Character HO 8 Buildings: Good Quality Design
DDeeaarr RReessiiddeenntt,, The Bracknell Town Neighbourhood Plan Referendum will be on 9th September 2021 Here is the plan’s index:
1 Contents 2 Introduction
3 ENVIRONMENT AND COMMUNITY EV 1 Open Space of Public Value EV 2 Protection & Maintenance of Local Green Space EV 3 Tree Heritage: Avenues of Trees EV 4 Protection of Trees EV 5 New Tree Planting EV 6 Allotments EV 7 Cemetery Space EV 8 Watercourses & River Corridors EV 9 Air Quality EV 10 Arts Centre: South Hill Park EV 11 Colocation of Community Facilities EV 12 Protection of Community Facilities
4 HERITAGE HE 1 Protection of Parks & of Parkland Features of Historic Parks & Gardens HE 2 Protection of the settings of Heritage Assets HE 3 Protection of Heritage Assets
5 HOUSING AND CHARACTER
HO 1 Infill & Backland Development HO 2 Houses in Multiple Occupation HO 3 Driveways & Hardstandings on Front Gardens HO 4 Managing the Streetscape HO 5 Private Gardens: Green Space Biodiversity Corridors HO 6 Buildings: Energy Efficiency & Generation HO 7 Buildings: Local Character HO 8 Buildings: Good Quality Design
6 CHARACTER OF BRACKNELL TOWN NEIGHBOURHOODS 9 Ward-based Sections, 15 Maps & 97 Photos. This is a Character Area Assessment for Bracknell Town, for use in implementing the policies in the BTNP where applicable, including those in the Heritage and Housing sections.
7 ECONOMY AND EMPLOYMENT
EC 1 Employment & Enterprise: Small Business & Retail Units EC 2 Micro & Small Businesses EC 3 Neighbourhood Shopping Centres: Day to Day Requirements EC 4 Bracknell & Wokingham College & Bracknell Open Learning Centre EC 5 Town Centre Future Development Sites: Mixed Housing & Retail Uses EC 6 Broadband
8 TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE
TR 1 Cycleways TR 2 Cycleways & Footpaths TR 3 Cycle racks TR 4 Garage Block Areas: Configuration & Use TR 5 School Drop-off & Pick-Up Areas
TR 6 Public Toilets in Bracknell Town Centre TR 7 Roads and Transport: Traffic and the Environment
9 Implementation & Monitoring 10 List of Appendices 11 Appendices Contents 12 References 13 Illustrations 14 Glossary
The full Plan and the interactive map showing where the policies apply are on our website: www.bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk (link to BFC website interactive BTNP map). As a Bracknell Town resident on the electoral roll, please vote in this referendum on 9th September 2021.
6 CHARACTER OF BRACKNELL TOWN NEIGHBOURHOODS 9 Ward-based Sections, 15 Maps & 97 Photos. This is a Character Area Assessment for Bracknell Town, for use in implementing the policies in the BTNP where applicable, including those in the Heritage and Housing sections.
7 ECONOMY AND EMPLOYMENT
EC 1 Employment & Enterprise: Small Business & Retail Units EC 2 Micro & Small Businesses EC 3 Neighbourhood Shopping Centres: Day to Day Requirements EC 4 Bracknell & Wokingham College & Bracknell Open Learning Centre EC 5 Town Centre Future Development Sites: Mixed Housing & Retail Uses EC 6 Broadband
8 TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE
TR 1 Cycleways TR 2 Cycleways & Footpaths TR 3 Cycle racks TR 4 Garage Block Areas: Configuration & Use TR 5 School Drop-off & Pick-Up Areas
TR 6 Public Toilets in Bracknell Town Centre TR 7 Roads and Transport: Traffic and the Environment
9 Implementation & Monitoring 10 List of Appendices 11 Appendices Contents 12 References 13 Illustrations 14 Glossary
The full Plan and the interactive map showing where the policies apply are on our website: www.bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk (link to BFC website interactive BTNP map). As a Bracknell Town resident on the electoral roll, please vote in this referendum on 9th September 2021.
6 CHARACTER OF BRACKNELL TOWN NEIGHBOURHOODS 9 Ward-based Sections, 15 Maps & 97 Photos. This is a Character Area Assessment for Bracknell Town, for use in implementing the policies in the BTNP where applicable, including those in the Heritage and Housing sections.
7 ECONOMY AND EMPLOYMENT
EC 1 Employment & Enterprise: Small Business & Retail Units EC 2 Micro & Small Businesses EC 3 Neighbourhood Shopping Centres: Day to Day Requirements EC 4 Bracknell & Wokingham College & Bracknell Open Learning Centre EC 5 Town Centre Future Development Sites: Mixed Housing & Retail Uses EC 6 Broadband
8 TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE
TR 1 Cycleways TR 2 Cycleways & Footpaths TR 3 Cycle racks TR 4 Garage Block Areas: Configuration & Use TR 5 School Drop-off & Pick-Up Areas
TR 6 Public Toilets in Bracknell Town Centre TR 7 Roads and Transport: Traffic and the Environment
9 Implementation & Monitoring 10 List of Appendices 11 Appendices Contents 12 References 13 Illustrations 14 Glossary
The full Plan and the interactive map showing where the policies apply are on our website: www.bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk (link to BFC website interactive BTNP map). As a Bracknell Town resident on the electoral roll, please vote in this referendum on 9th September 2021.
6 CHARACTER OF BRACKNELL TOWN NEIGHBOURHOODS 9 Ward-based Sections, 15 Maps & 97 Photos. This is a Character Area Assessment for Bracknell Town, for use in implementing the policies in the BTNP where applicable, including those in the Heritage and Housing sections.
7 ECONOMY AND EMPLOYMENT
EC 1 Employment & Enterprise: Small Business & Retail Units EC 2 Micro & Small Businesses EC 3 Neighbourhood Shopping Centres: Day to Day Requirements EC 4 Bracknell & Wokingham College & Bracknell Open Learning Centre EC 5 Town Centre Future Development Sites: Mixed Housing & Retail Uses EC 6 Broadband
8 TRANSPORT AND INFRASTRUCTURE
TR 1 Cycleways TR 2 Cycleways & Footpaths TR 3 Cycle racks TR 4 Garage Block Areas: Configuration & Use TR 5 School Drop-off & Pick-Up Areas
TR 6 Public Toilets in Bracknell Town Centre TR 7 Roads and Transport: Traffic and the Environment
9 Implementation & Monitoring 10 List of Appendices 11 Appendices Contents 12 References 13 Illustrations 14 Glossary
The full Plan and the interactive map showing where the policies apply are on our website: www.bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk (link to BFC website interactive BTNP map). As a Bracknell Town resident on the electoral roll, please vote in this referendum on 9th September 2021.
Nature and Environment Bracknell Matters - August 2021 13
Recreational Facilities ManagerOn the 30th April 2021 Allan Moffat retired as the Recreational Facilities Manager (RFM) for Bracknell Town Council. Allan made a massive impact on the landscape of our parks and left a long lasting impression on all the staff and Councillors that he worked with over the 22 years of his career.
Starting in 1999 Allan was involved in some major projects including: the new Great Hollands Pavilion, Swing Skate Star statue at The Elms, several significant events such as the centenary for WW1, the 50th anniversary of Bracknell Town and too many more to list. Bracknell Town Council is thankful to have worked alongside Allan for such a long time and hopes he has the most wonderful and relaxing retirement. We are sure lots of you have met Allan and will wish him all the best for his future.
When one door closes, another opens, and the new RFM Ian Evans arrived at BTC with a short handover from Allan. Ian has a background in working at prestigious grounds such as Green Park in Reading and has settled into the team really well. Ian has already started making plans for the BTC parks and we are looking forward to what he will achieve during his time at BTC. Welcome to the BTC team Ian!
Bracknell Town Mayor 2021-2022Councillor Sanjeev Prasad was elected Bracknell Town Mayor in May 2021 at the Bracknell Town Council Annual General Meeting. He has been a Councillor since 2015 and has lived in Bracknell for 27 years with his wife Sangeeta. Councillor Prasad is keen to be a Town Mayor who supports local businesses, charities and the youth.
Councillor Prasad is a family man with a passion for engineering and inspiring the youth. In November 2021, Councillor Prasad is supporting an event to inspire young people to become engineers. The project is supported by Activate Learning, many other large organisations and also the local MP.
12 Bracknell Town Mayor Bracknell Matters - August 2021
Councillor Prasad has chosen Home-Start as the Mayor’s Charity for the year. Home-Start provides one to one support to parents with children under five, who are dealing with issues such as mental health conditions and difficult relationships amongst other things. They provide regular volunteer visits offering emotional and practical support. To ask for help visit: homestartbracknellforest.org.uk
We hope you will join BTC in welcoming Councillor Prasad as the Town Mayor for the year. You can invite Councillor Prasad to your event by contacting: mayor@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
Councillor Prasad has chosen Home-Start as the Mayor’s Charity for the year.
14 Nature and Environment Bracknell Matters - August 2021 Nature and Environment Bracknell Matters - August 2021 15
The Carbon Reduction Working Group has been working hard to find ways for Bracknell Town Council to reduce its carbon footprint. The pandemic has upturned many people’s way of living and has been extremely difficult; however, one positive thing to come from the lockdowns is the beneficial impacts on the environment and our C02 emissions.
The Carbon Reduction Working Group recently asked residents their views on how BTC can best reduce their Carbon Footprint, and is using the results to focus the ideas of the group ensuring BTC is tackling the issues most important to the community. The most common responses were to encourage the use of public transport and walking instead of driving; to use renewable energy in our buildings and to move our whole fleet to electric vehicles. BTC can happily say that Great Hollands pavilion has solar panels on the roof which help to power the building. Most of our vans and equipment such as strimmers and blowers are powered by electric already and as we are replacing machinery and vehicles we are moving to electric power.
In working towards reducing the carbon footprint at Bracknell Town Council, the working group is also looking to boost the local wildlife and improve the biodiversity in our parks and green spaces. BTC has a living cemetery where we encourage beetles and bugs; log stacks and bug hotels in our parks allow insects to thrive. Bird and bat boxes are installed on several trees on our land.
Fun FactWorking from home and adapting to a
different way of working saw BTC reduce their printing costs by 76%
and paper usage by 73%.
Fun FactBTC has seen a
decrease of 50% in emissions from vehicles
since 2017 due to moving to electric vans
and machinery.
Fun FactApproximately 15 acres of BTC land has been turned into areas of
natural grass meadow to encourage the
wildlife and enhance biodiversity.
The most common ideas for
residents to work on from the survey were:
• Reduce, reuse and recycle more
• Use public transport, car share or walk
• Buy local and sustainable produce
Carbon Reduction
To read more about the BTC Carbon Reduction Plan and the actions already being taken to reduce the carbon footprint of the Council, visit:
www.bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk/council/carbon-footprint-reduction-and-climate-change
Mill Park ImprovementsBracknell Town Council created the Mill Park Improvements Working Group in the autumn of 2020. Since then the group have met five times to discuss making changes at Mill Park that will benefit the local residents.
Following a survey that was posted on Bracknell Town Council social media, some residents showed interest in joining the group to share their ideas about improvements that are most important to them. With the data from the survey guiding the discussions at the group and the residents voicing their thoughts, several ideas for improvement are in the pipeline.
Some of the changes led by the working group can already be seen at Mill Park including the new surface on the boardwalk overlooking the pond. The surface is made from Ecodek which is a 95% recycled and sustainably sourced raw material that is 100% recyclable with a warranty of 25 years. To the north of the boardwalk the pathways have also been resurfaced and are now more accessible.
As a wide variety of generations enjoy Mill Park, it is important to make sure that everyone is safe. To provide parents with more peace of mind, new handrails are due to be added to both sides of the boardwalk to improve the safety for children. For the seasoned visitors who like to watch the wildlife, interpretation boards are being installed to give information about the species of birds on the pond including what they can eat and how to tell the genders apart.
Past projects such as the whips that were planted at the weir end of the park are coming to fruition. The whips are now established and create a lovely wooded area to wander through. There are lots of new projects and ideas being discussed by the working group and BTC look forward to bringing you further details of the proposed improvements in the next edition. You can also keep an eye on our social media pages to get more updates on what BTC are doing.
CompetitionWinner!
We want to celebrate the winner and runner-up of the Carbon Reduction logo competition, you can see the new
logo on our posters and website. Congratulations to winner Joseph Barley, 19,
and runner-up Chanudi Adhikari, age 7! We are sure you will agree their designs are brilliant!
Winning logo Runner-up logo
16 Nature and Environment Bracknell Matters - August 2021 Community Bracknell Matters - August 2021 17
Environment WardenIntroducing our new Environment Warden
Bracknell Town Council would like to introduce our newest Environment Warden, Ollie Cichy. His role is to provide a visible presence in our parks and advise on local environmental issues such as dog fouling, control of dogs, littering, fly-tipping and responsible angling. So, if you see him in any of our parks, say hello!
Looking after the wildlife
Grow butterfly friendly plants – plant different species of plants which flower at different times of the year, this will increase the variety of insects visiting your garden.
Feed the birds – you don’t need special feeders, you could recycle a used plastic bottle!
Adding a small pond to your garden is a wonderful way to attract frogs and insects such as dragonflies. If you do create a pond, ensure it has sloping sides so that if animals fall in; they are able to get out easily.
Let the grass grow – this will allow some wild plants to grow which is great for the ecosystem and will attract a plethora of insects.
BARDO (Be A Responsible Dog Owner)Some advice from the RSPCA
• Provide constant access to shaded areas inside and out
• Ensure there is always cold, clean, fresh water available
• Head out in the early morning or late evening when it’s cooler
• Don’t run or cycle with your dog when it’s hot
• Avoid pavements. If the ground is too hot to touch with your hand for a few seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
• Prevent sunburn by using pet-safe sunscreen on ear tips and nose
• Brush your dog regularly to keep their coat thin and free from matts or knots
• Use frozen toys, paddling pools or water sprinklers to entertain and cool your dog down
• The car park at The Elms is for park users only
• Dogs must be kept on a lead when walking around the lakes at North Lake and South Hill Park to protect the wildlife
• Please clean up after your dog – dog mess can be put into any of our bins
• Please do not leave your dog in your car – temperatures rise very quickly and can be fatal
• Please put your litter in one of our bins or take it home with you
Reminders from Ollie
In the Spotlight
Photograph by Paul Wright - Mill Park
Photograph by Sam Casella - Ullswater
Photograph by Rachel Gordge – Jocks Lane
Photograph by Claire Moore - North Lake
Photograph by Nicole Hutchinson - Braybrooke
In every edition of the Bracknell Matters we feature amazing photographs taken by Bracknell residents in our parks. If you have any photos of our parks that you would like to be featured please email
rachel.gordge@bracknelltowncouncil.gov.uk
18 Community Bracknell Matters - August 2021
Bracknell Bowls ClubGreat Hollands Bowls Club is now open for the 2021 season. We have six rinks, one of which is shared with the public and we welcome new members, whether experienced or beginners. Training is offered to those new to bowls.
Bowls should be fun and enjoyable. Members range from those who enjoy a social meet up with friends to experienced bowlers competing at county level. Whatever you like you can be sure to find like-minded members at Great Hollands Bowls Club.
Membership entitles you to practise on the outdoor green during the playing months which are April to September and to use the clubhouse facilities throughout the year. Additionally, you can join in in friendly inter-club matches and enter competitions if you wish. During the playing season there are always activities on during the week and at weekends. Great Hollands Bowls Club probably has the best setting of any club in the area and what better way to spend a summer’s evening than bowling on the green as the sun goes down and enjoying a drink from the bar.
Out of season we hold a number of short mat sessions a week, have teams in a local cribbage league, and hold regular social events. The clubhouse is open Sunday lunchtimes for socialising.
They say bowls takes seconds to learn and the rest of your bowling career to master.
At Great Hollands Bowls Club we have free coaching sessions on Saturdays throughout the bowling season from 10:00am to 12:00pm for newcomers with members to help you on your way.
We are lucky to have a modern clubhouse with a licensed bar with men’s and women’s
changing facilities which are open daily to members throughout the summer.
At the time of writing, there are still some restrictions due to Covid-19. However, we hope that these will be relaxed in the coming weeks.
Our website www.greathollandsbowlsclub.co.uk has more details. Contact our membership secretary Ken Perrett (ken@theperretts.net or 01344 773808) for more information.
Kids’ CornerWelcome to the Kids’ Corner!
We want you to enjoy our parks and green spaces as much as you can so take a look at some of our ideas and let’s go outside!
Word Search! Can you find all the park related words? P A E U P S L I D E X F C Q I A Z A F E H O I D T K V P T R E P P S C C S L J T S A Z W H G Q A R P P R J I S I L Y S M O K S N M F N W S O R L P G W S T G E D T H A D E A F U N S L P O N D L I F O P
Can you find these words?Park Play Swing Fishing Slide Sport Tree Pitch Pond Fun
Let’s Go Outside!
Make a bug hotel
Draw a picture of a tree
Go stargazing
Community Bracknell Matters - August 2021 19
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