tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70411919891839922342024-02-02T07:02:55.951+01:00Heyhouses Ward ConservativesHeyhouses Ward is situated in St annes on Sea, within the Borough of Fylde. Heyhouses has Three Conservative Councillors. John Coombes, Craig Halewood and Keith Hyde.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-37885268882960690302009-07-28T09:55:00.002+02:002009-07-28T09:57:35.488+02:00Community Governance Review - Consultation BeginsDoes Heyhouses Ward need another two Councillors? That will be the question that will put to residents in the coming months following a full review which was instigated by the Conservatives last night's Full Council Meeting.<br /><br />Fylde Conservatives last night proposed a full consultation to review Community Governance across the whole of Fylde Borough. The consultation was instigated by an application from St Annes on the Sea Town Council to increase it's number of Councillors from 7 to 18. This request would require a Boundary Commission review and therefore it was seen as an opportunity to also review the size of the District Council whilst at the same time asking the Boroughs other Town and Parish Councils if they required any chances to their boundaries or structures.<br /> <br />Heyhouses Ward Councillor and Leader of Fylde Conservatives John Coombes said ' Conservatives have promised to review structures and Councillor numbers to ensure that the right level of representation is given to the residents of Fylde. With the current proposals for 18 St Annes Town Councillors, this potentially brings the number of elected Officials in St Annes alone to 39 Councillors including County Councillors, residents have a right to comment'<br /> <br />Opposition Councillors voted against the move and argued that the Council should 'Consult on having the consultation first'<br /> <br />Partnerships Portfolio Holder and Staining Parish Councillor Albert Pounder said ' this was a ridiculous argument and I was disappointed that opposition Councillors voted against giving residents the right to have their say - This was a classic Turkeys and Christmas scenario and I for one welcome a review which is 35 years overdue'<br /> <br />A number of light touch reviews have taken place since 1974 however these were just tinkering around the edges and not deemed to be wide ranging. The last review undertaken when Independent and Liberal Democrat Councillors were in charge sparked a furious response from St Annes residents who were again denied a St Annes Town Council. This led to a 3500 signature petition which brought about the new Town Council.<br /> <br />John Coombes added ' Both the Conservative and Labour Parties have stated that the future of <br />local decision making will be through Town and Parish Councils in the first instance. Both Parties have also made it clear that Town Halls will need to tighten their belts further from 2011 and Government has recently stated that Town Halls need to strongly consider the cessation of Non-Statutory services'<br /> <br />The review will start in earnest and will be completed in time for the 2011 local Council elections. Residents across the Borough will now be asked for their views on local representation including those in Lytham and Ansdell whom currently do not have Parish Councils.<br /> <br />Cllr Pounder added ' We will consider all the responses once collated and will bring the results back to the Full Council for a final decision, I hope that those who voted against this Consultation on Monday will then honour the will of the majority'Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-23110506095736571482009-06-03T13:54:00.002+02:002009-06-03T14:02:58.132+02:00European & County Council Elections 4th June 2009The European and County Council elections are upon us. Heyhouses residents will be eligible to vote on Thursday at the Polling Stations as listed on your Polling Card. This will be either St Thomas' School or Hope Street Park. There are a total of 8 Conservative European Parliamentary Candidates to vote for and Councillor Fabian Craig-Wilson is the Conservative candidates for St Annes South.<br /><br />After 28 years of labour control at County Hall Fylde needs a change which will bring about a change of funding priorities from the East of Lancashire back to the Fylde region.<br /><br />The Conservatives are the only party that is capable of taking control, requiring just a handful of seats to take over. The Lib Dems are miles behind and would require almost 40 seats to come close - so remember not only to vote but to support the Conservative Party when voting as this is the only real way to guarantee a change for Lancashire. It's time for change - please remember to vote!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-83716345823167868082009-04-14T09:48:00.002+02:002009-04-14T09:51:56.877+02:00Closure of Footpath to allow demolition - Pilling AveResidents around Waddington Road and Grassington will be aware of the plans to demolish the old New Fylde Housing Flats on Grassington Road. This work is about to commence and for your information a temporary road closure of the duel Footway/ Carriageway linking Pilling Avenue and Grassington Road at Heyhouses will start from 08:00hrs Monday 11th May 2009 to 18:00hrs Wednesday 11th November 2009<br /><br />As previously mentioned this is to demolish old properties and redevelop the site, plans can be viewed by visiting the Councils one stop shop on Clifton Drive.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-91506512850869744142009-01-20T15:12:00.002+01:002009-01-20T15:30:20.045+01:00Friends Groups for Waddington & Hope Street Parks are now formedLast night I met with a great group of residents at Cllr Hyde's home regarding the setting up of a Parks Friends group for Hope Street Park. The upgrade of the Park could cost as much as £250,000, but funding is available to Friends Groups, hence the meeting. Hope Street is a fantastic Park which sadly has declined over a number of years. With Council budgets shrinking year on year the best way forward for Heyhouses Parks is for residents to form groups similar to that of Lythams Park View 4U, which has raised over a million pounds for the Lytham Park. <br /><br />Detailed plans have already been drawn up for Waddington Park, and a keen group of residents have taken over the baton and are pushing the plans forward, they are keen to hear from anyone that is willing to help, and they can be contacted via the link in our "links" section. Funding has already started coming in towards the Waddington scheme, from Lancs County Council and Fylde Council Officers are helping both groups get organised and helping point them in the right direction.<br /><br />The Hope Street group will meet again on the 3rd February at 6pm to discuss the appointment of committee members and keith would be keen to hear from anyone living close to Hope Street who would like to get involved.<br /><br />Keith said "this is an exciting time for Heyhouses Ward, we are keen to make our Parks the best in Fylde. Residents have two great examples of what can be achieved at both Hove Road Park and Park View and I hope that those living close to Hope Street and Waddington Road will get in touch with me. We hope to kick off fundraising in the Spring"<br /><br />Once official the Friends of Hope Street will set up a website to keep neighbours informed on their progress.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-54304681904389513412008-10-05T10:53:00.004+02:002008-10-16T17:50:51.936+02:00We Love Small Shops!! - Join our Campaign<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho2D3AbM0kul_G_0cduxPtHGMxCZb6c6DoL2EdAjjlGHY8399DcngQp9hzROP4qnX-DuTBiX-UWYoO7RB-ZnrN88sZOhVHzXJJT9rkZQawJS6K8hK69ZeAtvjKSlrAbke2N6DGIL9HAKi_/s1600-h/455x207-welovesmallshops.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho2D3AbM0kul_G_0cduxPtHGMxCZb6c6DoL2EdAjjlGHY8399DcngQp9hzROP4qnX-DuTBiX-UWYoO7RB-ZnrN88sZOhVHzXJJT9rkZQawJS6K8hK69ZeAtvjKSlrAbke2N6DGIL9HAKi_/s320/455x207-welovesmallshops.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253590520599062018" /></a><br /> <strong>Supporting Small Shops</strong><br />Small shops are at the heart of our high streets and town centres. They offer diversity and choice and provide a really personal service to their community.<br /><br />Yet in many communities these independent retailers are under threat. They face a rising burden of regulation and tax, a daily battle against crime and violence, and competition from the growth of out-of-town shopping centres. It is estimated that 2000 shops close every year. <br /><br />Join our campaign to support Britain’s small shops by signing our petition today. <br /><br />In the Summer, Conservative MPs published a report which set out the challenges facing small shops and ideas for the way ahead. It concluded that we must stand up for small retailers and recognise the vital role they play at the heart of our communities.<br /><br />So we are campaigning to promote and save our small shops. In particular we are opposing Labour plans to make it easier for more out-of-town development, by scrapping the so-called ‘needs test’. If implemented, this will further undermine small, town centre shops.<br /><br />You can help save your local shop. Become part our campaign to keep small shops at the heart of our communities. <br /><br />Mark Prisk MP, the Conservative Shadow Minister for Small Businesses - “If you value your local shops then join our campaign to help them. You can make a difference.” <br /><br />“Cllr John Coombes added in Fylde we have prided ourselves on our shopping centres and our smaller retail centres such as Whalley Place and St Albans Road, but success runs the risk of all of us becoming complacent about their long term future which can lead to outside funding being diverted away from Fylde, our local campaign to get local retailers and business owners working together and with the Council should help strengthen our voice and ensure that we all have a part to play in developing a long term plan for our town centres“<br /><br />“We also need to urge residents to shop local and to support local retailers. By walking around the corner to the local shops we are securing their future as well as saving the environment - buy local and buy British has to be the mantra during these difficult trading times“<br /><br /><strong>WHAT YOU CAN DO</strong> <br /><br />Sign our petition at <br /><br />http://www.conservatives.com/Campaigns/Supporting_Small_Shops.aspx<br /><br />Read the report and send your comments and ideas to the Office of Mark Prisk at mooren@parliament.uk or write to him at Mark Prisk MP, House of Commons, London, SW1A OAA <br />Write to the Government to say NO to scrapping the needs test. Address your letters to Hazel Blears, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, House of Commons, London, SW1A OAA <br /><br />Download our poster via www.conservatives.comUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-48147743819803270452008-10-03T17:07:00.002+02:002008-10-03T17:14:38.719+02:00Battle of Britain Memorial - Help raise money by simply shopping on line<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7X1tGyFouSnTJglOn7ArzBYfEjzV2etFovRDoKd2uA4YrPqyKuFCTzN76RnJdIBZlOmJFrPGxu2cUaoKkpshZofWLjbsnmuhra9e5oFTG74xQIdu-XCNjTQL2LZdho_o4XR8VlbNUJMe/s1600-h/LargePictureofSpitfireHurricane.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV7X1tGyFouSnTJglOn7ArzBYfEjzV2etFovRDoKd2uA4YrPqyKuFCTzN76RnJdIBZlOmJFrPGxu2cUaoKkpshZofWLjbsnmuhra9e5oFTG74xQIdu-XCNjTQL2LZdho_o4XR8VlbNUJMe/s200/LargePictureofSpitfireHurricane.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252944541057628930" /></a><br /><br />Help us to raise money towards the Fylde Battle of Britain Memorial by simply clicking on the link above before making any purchases on-line. Over 600 retailers are taking part in the scheme and will make a donation to the fund, at no cost to you, if you use the link above. We need to raise £80,000 to build a similar scheme to the one in the picture, which will be the only Battle of Britain Memorial in the North of England.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-21866821473668768362008-09-22T13:31:00.002+02:002008-09-22T13:37:17.212+02:00Tell us how best to help new mothers?Maria Miller, Shadow Minister for the Family, has launched an online survey to help with the development of our proposal to provide professional home support to new mothers in the first few days.<br /><br />Maria said "We are looking at adopting the policy similar to that in the Netherlands called Kraamzorg. <br /><br />Maternity nurses come into your home to provide practical and clinical support to help with the extra work that comes with the arrival of a new baby - for example, with breastfeeding, looking after older children and preparing meals"<br /><br />Councillor John Coombes commented<br /><br />"It is vital that we can asses the amount of help needed for young mums, especially when they may not have family living close by, there is a fine balance between Nanny State and providing a service so the feedback from this survey will be useful"<br /><br />Copy this link into your browser to take part:<br /><br />http://www.conservatives.com/tile.do?def=news.story.page&obj_id=146553Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-15213104527850053042008-09-19T15:50:00.005+02:002008-09-19T17:13:05.080+02:00Council Publishes its 2008 Annual reportThe Council has always been keen to capture residents views via a multitude of methods. Listening day, State of the Borough debate and feedback through the website have been the key methods of gathering your feedback, combined with the regular newsletters distributed by Councillors. Recently however we have highlighted the fact that many residents are unaware of many of the good things driven forward in recent years by the Council and the background of some our the challenges being faced not only by the Council but the Borough in general.<br /><br />As part of our drive to improve the information flow we have dramatically opened up access to committee meetings for residents, invested heavily in our website and have continued to invest in the Fylde in Focus newspaper. But there is still more to do! Below I have put a link to the Councils 2008 Annual Report (copy and paste into browser)This document is a small snapshot of some of the issues and facts affecting the Council this year. By being aware of such information along with the Corporate Plan and Community Plan residents can easily see what it is we are doing and why.<br /><br />http://www.fylde.gov.uk/Category.aspx?cat=1914<br /><br />we are keen to keep as many residents as possible up to date with current news and facts and hope that this document will be of use and help you understand better the working s of the Council. I would appreciate your feedback on the Annual ReportUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-88718167986152906522008-09-13T14:45:00.003+02:002008-09-15T15:11:44.468+02:00Conservatives welcome another Lib Dem defection<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3uxYI6h-tlTZoo2-e2qClPyT42Y6blvm5Ybt4eF56SDFCoMyRhYIQ-Q6FH1-G5jeDZn9SL-ja4muoV5NmcwTV23fJmv5SuhSBF9_dmEtyoFCfRcBJYruatbo1LPdCaA944EhJoL7iOF3n/s1600-h/lib_dem_diamond__col_.thumbnail"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3uxYI6h-tlTZoo2-e2qClPyT42Y6blvm5Ybt4eF56SDFCoMyRhYIQ-Q6FH1-G5jeDZn9SL-ja4muoV5NmcwTV23fJmv5SuhSBF9_dmEtyoFCfRcBJYruatbo1LPdCaA944EhJoL7iOF3n/s400/lib_dem_diamond__col_.thumbnail" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5246234682722666610" /></a><br />Caroline Spelman has offered Marc Goodwin a warm welcome to the Conservatives after his defection from the Liberal Democrats.<br /><br />Marc, who contested the High Peak seat for the Liberal Democrats in 2005 and was initially the PPC (Prospective Parliamentary Candidate) for Crewe and Nantwich in May, said he had been listening closely to what David Cameron had to say:<br /><br />"Whilst the Liberal Democrats are going nowhere and drifting, I believe that the Conservatives are the Party of fresh, new ideas, appealing to people right across the country."<br /><br />Caroline, the Party Chairman, said she was "delighted" at Marc's decision, and stressed:<br /><br />"Under David Cameron's leadership more and more people are looking to the Conservative Party to deliver the changes our country really needs."<br /><br />George Osborne, the Shadow Chancellor, described this latest Lib Dem defection as "further evidence" that the Conservatives are taking the lead on progressive issues such as poverty and the environment.<br /><br />Cllr John Coombes added 'the Lib Dems are in turmoil and even the local Party activists in Fylde are fracturing, with the nasty and negative campaigning methods adopted by the Lib Dems it's no wonder! Based on recent polls and election failures it's no wonder that LibDem activists are joing voters and turning to the Conservatives - we are happy to welcome them. After helping with the recent by-election in Crewe & Nantwich is it good to see that our policies not only appealed to voters, but to the opposition candidates as well'Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-55470342417514775242008-09-08T15:26:00.003+02:002008-09-08T15:35:01.551+02:00Home Grants and other benefits - Fylde OAPs not claimingThe spiralling costs of energy bills is threatening to force almost 2.2 million pensioners into fuel poverty this Winter. The Council is keen to help as many Pensioners as possible insulate their homes and there are many free grants available for the over 70's.<br /><br />The Energy Saving Trust has launched a new service to help people save money this winter just copy and paste the link into your browser:<br /><br />http://estconsumer.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/estconsumer.cfg/php/enduser/doc_serve.php?2=August_webpage_bulletin<br /><br />There are also 1.2 million pensioners who are not claiming the Housing and other benefits that they are entitled to. Just a quick telephone call to the Town Hall on 01253 658658 and the benefits team will be able to arrange a quick assesment of your entitlements. If you have a parent or grand parent over 60 then please urge them to contact the Council for advise on getting what they DESERVE!Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-5178396728784868582008-09-05T10:13:00.000+02:002008-09-05T10:14:50.604+02:00TRANSPORT MINISTER IN TALKS WITH MOTORCYCLE INDUSTRY ON TEST CENTRE CHAOSRepresentatives from the motorcycle industry met Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick today, to press the industry’s case for a six month delay to the introduction of new test procedures scheduled for the end of this month.<br /> <br />The Motor Cycle Industry Association (MCI), the Motorcycle Rider Training Association (MRTA) and Riders Edge (Harley-Davidson rider training) were able to explain their concerns to Mr Fitzpatrick and senior representatives of the Driving Standards Agency (DSA). The call for a delay is also backed by the Institute of Advanced Motorists, the Motorcycle Action Group and the British Motorcyclists Federation.<br /> <br />The industry’s concerns are centred on the road safety risks to novice riders who in many cases will be forced to ride long distances in order to take a motorcycle test. There is also a strong business case to delay implementation of the new test.<br /> <br />The MCI’s Craig Carey-Clinch said: “The Minister was receptive and we had what I believe was a productive meeting. The discussion with Mr Fitzpatrick and the DSA was frank and constructive, and we must now hope for a swift decision to delay the new test procedure until more test centres are available.”<br /> <br />Echoing these comments, the MRTA’s Frank Finch said: As well as hearing our views about the road safety implications, the Minister was also receptive to the business arguments in that the industry faces a £40 million loss of revenue as well as significant job losses, should the new test proceed with too few multi-purpose test centres.”<br /> <br />On September 29th the motorcycle test is due to change, introducing new manoeuvres required under a European Directive. The DSA has chosen to implement the directive by concentrating motorcycle tests at about 60 planned multi-purpose test centres around the UK. Currently there are around 260 motorcycle test centres and the DSA plan, if it had been successful, slashes this number by 80%.<br /> <br />The motorcycle community call has been prompted by the fact that only 39 test centres, nationwide, will be opened ahead of the major changes later this month. There has been rising concern about the DSA’s inability to deliver the promised number of new test sites. <br /> <br />Unless action is taken, there is a real danger that the whole motorcycle test system will fall into chaos, with candidates in many parts of the country unable to secure a motorcycle test. More importantly, the motorcycle industry fears that longer journeys to fewer test centres will bring significant road safety risks. All good advice to novice riders tells them not to undertake long journeys in heavy traffic soon after taking their test, but to build up slowly as they gain experience. Some test candidates could face a journey of 100 miles or more in each direction, coupled with the stress of taking a test. <br /> <br />Craig Carey-Clinch added: The motorcycle industry, MRTA and training organisations are fully supportive of the new test, which should help to produce more competent and safer riders. But we believe that if the new test is introduced in a few weeks as planned, the motorcycle test system is likely to crash and administrative chaos will ensue, discouraging people from taking their riding test, and compromising longer term road safety goals.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-28135383288367080492008-08-29T14:32:00.002+02:002008-08-29T14:34:32.388+02:00Heyhouses Pensioners worse off under Labour<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpjjFVWK9YDrJFcqzxw7XpeGZhjMp-Hu30IFgTsHfmHElzIKJWmWyo5VAGa6QpNU70M0JCE5WSrEGO2vYNjsS4C90-2qkmZHyVTMB_XF-qanaqpvUNxwSmby3WMscGrZ6lL_mIXrkvNX1A/s1600-h/_38776455_pension300.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpjjFVWK9YDrJFcqzxw7XpeGZhjMp-Hu30IFgTsHfmHElzIKJWmWyo5VAGa6QpNU70M0JCE5WSrEGO2vYNjsS4C90-2qkmZHyVTMB_XF-qanaqpvUNxwSmby3WMscGrZ6lL_mIXrkvNX1A/s400/_38776455_pension300.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5239916957853092706" /></a><br />LABOUR: FAILING ON Fairness for Fylde’s pensioners<br /><br />How pensioners are treated is a key test of a society’s fairness.<br />The impact of Gordon Brown’s tax and benefit policies mean Labour is failing on this fundamental yardstick. In addition, new analysis by the Conservative Party reveals that the rising cost of living means over two million pensioners will actually be up to £100 worse off – even after the increase in Pension Credit. Fylde Borough has one of the highest levels of over 50’s in Lancashire and this ticking time bomb will need strong Conservative policies to avert many Fylde pensioners from ending up on the Bread Line in a period of their lives which they should be enjoying. <br /><br />Labour tax on pensions<br /><br />Gordon Brown’s disastrous tax raid on pension funds has slashed £100 billion off the value of Britain’s pension savings. Recently published Treasury documents reveal that Gordon Brown received warnings from civil servants that his tax hike would cut the income of private pension schemes by up to 10%. It cannot be right that Pensioners have to pay tax on their pension payments, Conservatives need to scrap tax on Pensions and Savings.<br /><br />Pensioner poverty<br /><br />Figures from Eurostat show that Britain’s pensioners are some of the most likely in Europe to be at risk of poverty. Britain is the fourth worst country in the EU on the at risk- of-poverty rankings produced by the EU. Only pensioners in Cyprus, Spain and Latvia are more likely to fall into poverty. This position has got worse since 1997.4 Pensioner poverty grew by 300,000 compared with last year, measure both before and after housing costs.5<br />There are 2.5 million pensioners living in poverty (living below 60% of median<br />income measured before housing costs – the official measure of child poverty) which is 100,000 more pensioners than in 1997.6<br /><br />Labour’s benefit system – failing pensioners<br /><br />Labour’s increased use of complex means testing of pensioners has resulted in reduced take-up of benefits. <br /><br />Pension Credit<br /><br />Between 1.2 and 1.8 million pensioners failed to take up their entitlement to Pension Credit last year.<br />Up to 1.2 million of those were living in poverty (below 60% of median income<br />measured before housing costs).<br /><br />4 Eurostat, At-risk-of-poverty rate for pensioners, February 2006 (latest available); Eurostat, At-risk-ofpoverty<br />rate of older people by gender and selected age groups, February 1997.<br />5 DWP, Households Below Average Income, June 2008<br />6 DWP, Households Below Average Income, June 2008<br /><br />4<br />Council tax benefit<br /><br />Because of the complexity of the benefit system, between 1.7 and 2.1 million<br />pensioners are failing to claim the Council Tax Benefit they are entitled to.7<br />As a result, between £1.1 and £1.5 billion of Council Tax Benefit went unclaimed by pensioners last year.8<br /><br />Housing Benefit<br /><br />Take up of Housing Benefit amongst pensioners has fallen under Labour<br />Between £380 million and £770 million in Housing Benefit went unclaimed by<br />pensioners last year. 42% of entitled non recipients of Housing Benefit were living in poverty last year compared with 10% of those entitled to and claiming the benefit.<br /><br />Council Tax Benefit<br /><br />Take up of by pensioners has fallen by at least 12% amongst pensioners since 1997.9<br /><br />Council tax burden on pensioners<br /><br />For a typical pensioner, a third of the increase in the basic state pension since 1997 has been eaten up by higher council tax payments.<br />For pensioner couple, council tax is up £685 on a Band D home from 1997-8 to 2008-9, compared to the couples’ basic state pension going up £2,353. For a single pensioner, council tax is up £514 on Band D, while the single basic state pension is up £1,469.10<br /><br />7 DWP, Income Related Benefits Estimates of Take Up in 2006/07, June 2008<br />8 DWP, Income Related Benefits Estimates of Take Up in 2006/07, June 2008<br />9 DWP, Income Related Benefits Estimates of Take Up in 2006/07, June 2008<br />10 Hansard, 10 January 2008, col. 730W. Figures exclude payments for 70+ year olds, winter fuel payments and the 2005-06 £200 one-off payment; pension.<br /><br />5<br />New Conservative Party analysis reveals that over two million of<br />the poorest pensioners will lose nearly £100 thanks to rising cost<br />of living under Labour<br /><br />Pensioners face soaring living costs<br /><br />Labour’s taxes and rising cost of living mean that pension increases for poor<br />pensioners will be entirely eaten up by higher inflation. Thanks to the spread of means-testing, more pensioners are now dependent on Pension Credit.<br />Poor pensioners are entitled to a minimum level of income via the Guarantee Credit component of the Pension Credit. The level of the Guarantee Credit was increased by 4.2% at the beginning of this financial year.11<br />Pensioner inflation is now considerably higher than CPI inflation because pensioners spend a much higher percentage of their income on high-inflation goods, like heating, light, and food. For example, pensioners spend 23%12 of their budget on food, whereas the average household spends only 11%.13 Pensioners spend 13%14 of their budget on fuel and light, compared with 9%15 for the average household. Official figures, buried away on the Office for <br /><br />National Statistics website, show that:<br />For a two-person pensioner household, the rate of RPI inflation was 5.2%.16<br />For a one-person pensioner household, the rate of RPI inflation was 5.6%.17<br />But the official rate for annual RPI inflation was 4.4 per cent over the same period.18<br /><br />Pension Credit rise wiped out by inflation<br /><br />This means that the Guarantee Credit rise will be entirely eaten up by higher inflation. In fact, in real terms, the value of the Guarantee Credit19 is actually being cut.<br />A pensioner couple will lose £98 this year, at current rates of inflation.20<br />A single pensioner will lose £90 this year, at current rates of inflation.21<br />There are currently 2,130,620 Pension Credit claimants, all of whom will be<br />affected.22<br /><br />11 DWP, Proposed benefit rates 2008/09<br />12 ONS series CBXR. This is for a one-person pensioner household.<br />13 ONS series CZGZ<br />14 ONS series CBXY. This is for a one-person pensioner household.<br />15 ONS series CZHG<br />16 ONS series CZJI<br />17 ONS series CZIT<br />18 ONS series CZBH, Q2 2008<br />19 The Standard Minimum Guarantee of the Pension Credit for a single pensioner is currently £124.05 per week, or £9,846.20 per year. For a pensioner couple, it is £189.35 per week, or £6,450.60 per year.<br />20 For a two-person pensioner household, the rate of RPI inflation was 5.2 per cent. This means that the<br />Pension Credit is falling by 1.0 per cent in real terms this year (4.2 minus 5.2).<br />21 For a one-person pensioner household, the rate of RPI inflation was 5.6 per cent. This means that the Pension Credit is falling by 1.4 per cent in real terms this year (4.2 minus 5.6).<br />22 DWP Tabulation Tool, Feb 2008. Includes claimants who claim Guarantee Credit only, or both Guarantee Credit and Savings CreditUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-34445042443590793622008-08-06T11:45:00.002+02:002008-08-06T11:53:00.907+02:00Concessionary Bus Travel - Council Funding fears are justifiedLancashire District Leaders met yesterday at County Hall (August 4th) to discuss the costs relating to the Governments Concessionary Bus Travel Scheme. Although accurate figures are still not available, due to computer software problems the "estimated" funding shortfall is projected at £2.3 million. Some are predicting a total bill to Lancashire Council tax payers of up to £7 million. Yesterday saw this story break on Regional and national news and confirmed that Fylde Borough Council was right to see the traevl scheme as a "High Risk" <br /> <br />Cllr John Coombes said<br /> <br />"The take up of the free bus travel scheme for over 60's has been encouraging, but the slow implementation of software means we are still flying by the seat of our pants, when it comes to knowing just how much of a bill Fylde Council Tax payers could be faced with"<br /> <br />He added<br /> <br />"Bus operator records have shown a 90% increase in free travel to the Fylde Coast, this year, through the Preston Bus Terminal. This means that Fylde Tax payers will be expected to pay the return proportion of these particular bus journey's. This figure could be upwards of £200,000, equating to almost 5% on their Council Tax Bills<br /> <br />The Council has had to make unpopular decisions to try and keep Council Tax bills down whilst at the same time having available the funding to pay for the Bus Travel Scheme. It is unbelievable that a Government scheme should be paid for by local tax payers - the bill as it stands, threatens to squeeze further the Council's budget and put cash strapped residents under more financial pressure. With this bill now hanging over the Council I hope that residents will see why the funding for the pools had to be stopped for the time being.<br /> <br />I will be joining forces with fellow Conservative Council Leaders to lobby Lancashire MP's and Government for a commitment to cough up the funding shortfall. Although I support the basic principles of the scheme, yet again it shows that the funding mechanism for this policy have been ill thought out. There is a consensus that the scheme may cost up to £7 million pounds, in the first year! A figure which would bring about swinging reductions in services across Lancashire unless Mr Darling commits to fund the total cost of the scheme.<br /> <br />Fylde Borough Council is caught between a rock and a hard place, Conservatives have more ambitious plans for the Borough but whilst this sword of Damocles is hanging over us we are unable to commit revenue funds to any new schemes.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-4740383982684312052008-08-05T16:52:00.002+02:002008-08-05T16:58:02.446+02:00Fylde Borough Council - Customer Service BusFylde residents will soon have access to their local council via a new service being introduced from 13 August. The Bus will be in Heyhouses Ward on the 27th August at Whalley Place shops from 10:00 until 12 noon.<br /><br />Fylde Borough Council will be using the Local Strategic Partnership (LSP) Community Engagement Vehicle to reach out into the community - starting in the rural areas. <br /><br />This service is intended to give residents access to council staff, who will be on hand to provide information about council services and to listen to issues of concern to the local public. The bus will also offer eligible residents information about the Now Card for free bus travel. <br /><br />The first bus service, based in Kirkham, near Morrisons, will be on 13 August 2008 between 10am and 12pm. Following this, the bus will be located in various places in Fylde every Wednesday throughout August and September. If the service is successful, it is hoped that it will become a regular feature in the Fylde.<br /><br />Councillor Albert Pounder portfolio holder for Customer Relations and Partnerships, said: ”The council is determined to help the public get the information they need quickly and accurately. To this end the bus will complement our existing services delivered by our One Stop Shop and Call Centre. The new bus will offer specially trained staff who will aim to provide a top quality service at the first point of contact”. <br /><br />Cllr Craig Halewood said "This is a great concept for residents in Heyhouses which has some of the highest numbers of elderley in St Annes on Sea. With the closure of all Heyhouses Post Offices it is great to see the Council bringing it's services to the community"<br /><br />Cllr Keith Hyde added "I hope residents will get in touch with us and let us know if the service has been of use, if it is, I hope that the Council would support the funding for making it a regular service"<br /><br />For more information about the new bus service and to find out when the bus will be coming to your local area log on to www.fylde.gov.ukUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-39984484770171379502008-07-21T11:47:00.003+02:002008-07-21T13:35:54.490+02:00New Fylde Borough Council Forum - A new two way opportunity for residents to ask for the facts behind the headlines and RumoursAlthough there are many ways in which residents can find out information about their local area or about the decisions being taken that may affect them, very few either take time to look into the rumours and myths, beyond the chat with a neighbour over the garden fence or a with a friend in the local. <br /><br />Heyhouses Ward Councillors have been keen to lead on keeping residents in touch through our regular "Heyhouses Harrier leaflet" or through this blog. We have been looking at other ways of getting the news out to you and we are pleased that the Council has began a trial period of an "open forum" for residents to ask both Leading members and Officers questions about the facts behind the headlines or the rumours in the street.<br /><br />The forum is located at http://www.fyldelife.co.uk/forum/ Residents can create a profile and are encouraged to ask questions of the Council. The response will be "from the horses mouth" and should show residents that there is always another side to the story, which is often untold! <br /><br />As this is a trail period we need residents to take part so that the Council can assess it's benefit at the end of the trial. Please let your Heyhouses Ward Councillors know what you think of this new service.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-86157117454444056722008-07-08T18:23:00.000+02:002008-07-08T18:24:01.558+02:00St Annes Square Wins another Award!St Annes town centre has collected yet another award - recognising the excellence of the public realm scheme, which has transformed the main streets in the town centre.<br /><br />The gong is a prestigious Local Government News (LGN) Street Design Award and was presented to the Mayor of Fylde, Cllr Susan Fazackerly today (July 8).<br /><br />The award, was given under category number one of ‘pedestrian environment, which looks at town centre schemes and at pedestrian priority solutions. <br /><br />The judges chose the St Annes on Sea Regeneration Programme as the winner of the pedestrian environment category as they were impressed by the way the project reflects the heritage of the area, whilst providing a contemporary and appealing setting. <br /> <br />Laura Sharman, Editor of Local Government News, commented: “The work being carried out in St Annes on Sea is a great example of coastal town regeneration, and should inspire other local authorities looking to improve their local environment. <br /> <br />“This project has not only dramatically transformed the public realm, but it has also benefited the area and local community as a whole by acting as a catalyst for private sector investment.”<br /><br />The award itself was established in 1986 and aims to reward innovation and good practice in urban street design schemes undertaken by local authorities. Over 100 entries were submitted in each of the seven categories. <br /><br />Cllr Susan Fazackerley, Mayor of Fylde said: "Fylde Borough Council is delighted to receive this award, which is one of many that have recognised the quality of the regeneration taking place in St Anne’s which will be enjoyed by the public for years to come."<br /><br />Cllr Roger Small, Cabinet Member for Development and Regeneration, added: "The Council is committed to ensuring our parks and public spaces are maintained to a high standard on a day-to-day basis. <br /><br />“We also have an excellent track record at securing funding for regeneration to improve the public areas of the Borough. The current plans for work to restore Ashton Gardens and the War Memorial in Kirkham, as well as completed works to the War Memorial Gardens in Lytham, are just some examples of the care we take of our public spaces."<br /><br />Regeneration work in St Annes is also set to continue, with proposals for future improvement including work to more town centre streets and the promenadeUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-64772248825005641162008-07-01T17:00:00.000+02:002008-07-01T17:01:35.251+02:00Get Your Kids into a Sporting Summer!Are your Children aged 8-17 years? Fancy something fun to keep you active and make new friends during the summer holidays?<br /><br />Then why not take advantage of a whole host of FREE activities being offered by Fylde Borough Council this August? <br /><br />Cllr Simon Renwick, Cabinet Member for Culture and Tourism, said: “Fylde Borough Council is committed to our young people across the Borough and is demonstrating this with these free sporting activities at a whole host of locations. Sessions will feature a number of team sports from quick cricket to rugby and football to basketball, offering a chance not only to improve fitness but also develop new skills and make new friends.”<br /><br />Sessions will be held for 8-16 year olds at the following locations: <br /><br />Monday 4th, 11th, and 18th August:<br /><br />· 1-3pm – Bridges Playing Fields, Warton * Staining Village Playing Fields * School Lane Playing Fields, Newton * Kirkham Youth Base.<br />· 4-6pm – Mornington Road Playing Fields, Lytham * Lower Lane, Freckleton * Hove Road Park, St Annes * Blackpool Road North Playing Fields, St Annes.<br />· 7-9pm – Park View Playing Fields, Lytham * Kirkham Memorial Gardens * Hope Street Recreation Ground, St Annes * William Pickles Park, Clifton.<br /> <br />Tuesday 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th August:<br /><br />· 1-3pm – The Pavillion, Weeton Army Camp * Blackpool Road North Playing Fields, St Annes * Elswick Village Multi-Games Area * Waddington Road Field, St Annes.<br />· 4-6pm – Ashton Gardens, St Annes * Fleetwood Road Park, Wesham * William Pickle Park, Clifton * Lower Lane Multi Games Area, Freckleton.<br />· 7-9pm – Kirkham Memorial Gardens * Bridges Playing Fields, Warton * Hope Street Recreation Ground, St Annes * Hove Road Park, St Annes.<br /> <br />Wednesday 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th August:<br /><br />· 1-3pm – Bridges Playing Fields, Warton * School Lane Playing Fields, Newton * Staining Village Playing Fields * The Pavillion, Weeton Army Camp.<br />· 4-6pm – Mayfield School Field, St Annes * Mornington Road Playing Fields, Lytham * Hove Road Park, St Annes * The Pavillion, Weeton Army Camp.<br />· 7-9pm – Lower Lane, Freckleton * Hope Street Recreation Ground, St Annes * Kirkham Memorial Gardens * Ashton Gardens, St Annes.<br /> <br />Thursday 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th August:<br /><br />· 1-3pm – The Pavilion, Weeton Army Camp * Elswick Village Multi Games Area * Staining Village Playing Fields * Kirkham Youth Base.<br />· 4-6pm – Park View Playing Fields, Lytham * Fleetwood Road Park, Wesham * William Pickles Fields, Clifton *Ashton Gardens, St Annes.<br />· 7-9pm – Hope Street Recreation Ground, St Annes * Kirkham Memorial Gardens * Bridges Playing Field, Warton * Waddington Road Field, St Annes.<br /> <br />Fri 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th August:<br /><br />· 1-3pm – Bridges Playing Fields, Warton * Staining Village Playing Fields * Waddington Road Field, St Annes * Blackpool Road North Playing Fields, St Annes.<br />· 4-6pm – Mornington Road Playing Field, Lytham * Hove Road Park, St Annes * Elswick Village Multi Games Area * School Lane Playing Fields, Newton.<br />· 7-9pm – Ashton Gardens, St Annes * Hope Street Recreation Ground, St Annes * Lower Lane, Freckleton * Mayfield School Field, St Annes.<br /><br /><br />High ropes offer challenging outdoor physical activity and offers the chance to take on exciting challenges as well as building new skills and friendships. A High Ropes course will also be at the following destinations from 1 – 6pm.<br /><br />Tues 12th August Blackpool Road North, St Annes <br />Weds 13th August Bridges Playing Field, Warton <br />Thurs 14th August Youth Base, Kirkham <br />Tues 19th August Lower Lane, Freckleton <br />Weds 20th August Ashton Gardens, St Annes <br />Thurs 21st August Park View, Lytham <br /><br />Participants aged under 13 require a signed parental consent form – leaflets have been delivered to all Fylde households or can be downloaded from www.fylde.gov.uk<br /><br />For further details on these August events contact Clare Grant on 01253 658658.<br /><br />The local YMCA are also holding a series of activities, for 12 – 17 year-olds, running daily from July 21 – 25 and July 28 – Aug 1. A full table of times and venues is detailed below.<br /><br />The sessions will all be supervised by qualified YMCA Sports Development Coaches <br /><br /> Ashton Gardens St Annes Youth BaseKirkham Lower LaneFreckleton<br />Mon 21 July 1 – 3pm 4 – 6pm 7 – 9pm<br />Tues 22 July 1 – 3pm 7 – 9pm 4 – 6pm<br />Wed 23 July 1 – 3pm 4 – 6pm 7 – 9pm<br />Thurs 24 July 1 – 3pm 7 – 9pm 4 – 6pm<br />Fri 25 July 1 – 3pm 4 – 6pm 7 – 9pm<br />Mon 28 July 1 – 3pm 7 – 9pm 4 – 6pm<br />Tues 29 July 1 – 3pm 4 – 6pm 7 – 9pm<br />Wed 30 July 1 – 3pm 7 – 9pm 4 – 6pm<br />Thurs 31 July 1 – 3pm 4 – 6pm 7 – 9pm<br />Fri 1 August 1 – 3pm 7 – 9pm 4 – 6pmUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-51217873981818759022008-06-25T10:47:00.002+02:002008-12-09T17:59:19.294+01:00Conservative Party Conference<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSsrilPbop_ANeNBikuUH0NAy5G-1IK4_eVSB44MXX2Yb85yiikFdIT4hHGrhSf-Bj7EpscYH7tvYghXskS-zz6j1ZyPSUHxFKDFrCmybyfRx-J5b4mXA7XLGPLFrfWsA0fqzNX7mRVKG/s1600-h/Conf.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYSsrilPbop_ANeNBikuUH0NAy5G-1IK4_eVSB44MXX2Yb85yiikFdIT4hHGrhSf-Bj7EpscYH7tvYghXskS-zz6j1ZyPSUHxFKDFrCmybyfRx-J5b4mXA7XLGPLFrfWsA0fqzNX7mRVKG/s400/Conf.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5215738368841640706" /></a><br /><br /> Highlights will include:<br /><br />• A packed programme of speeches and policy announcements from members of the Shadow Cabinet. <br />• Lively debates with everyone invited to contribute.<br />• A key note speech from David Cameron.<br />• Over 350 fringe events hosted by leading political thinkers and commentators.<br />• A lively social scene, with parties, drinks receptions, dinners and more.<br />• An opportunity to help make a difference by volunteering some time at our Social Action project.<br />• Over 70 exhibitors including the NSPCC, O2 and the Equality and Human Rights Commission.<br />• A chance to meet a range of Party representatives including volunteers, councillors, MPs, candidates and CCHQ staff. <br />• Advice and help on all kinds of things from campaigning and membership to fundraising and websites. <br /> <br /> How to book your tickets:<br /><br />A 4-day pass costs just £68 for members (£35.50 for under 23’s) if you apply now – click here to reserve your place.<br /><br />All Party Members are invited to attend – but if you're not yet a member, you can still attend if you join before 1st July.<br /><br />For more information about this year's Conference, including advice on travel and accommodation, click here.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-46762398990148216362008-06-18T14:24:00.000+02:002008-06-18T14:27:59.709+02:00Bring Back Bendy Fruit! Euro rules are wastefulConservative MEP and Chairman of the European Parliament's Agriculture Committee, Neil Parish, has welcomed moves by the European Commission to simplify the barmy EU rules on fruit which would allow bendy cucumbers and funny shaped fruit to once again be sold in British shops.<br /><br />European Agriculture Commissioner, Mariann Fischer Boel wants to simplify and loosen up the rules of marketing fruit and veg and is proposing a widespread cull of the existing 36 marketing standards which stipulate quality standards on a range of products from apricots to watermelons. Among those to go would be the infamous "cucumber" quality standard which ensures that cucumbers can not bend more than 10mm for every 10cm of length. In their place, the Commission is proposing just ten standards which would continue the existing rules on fruits such as apples, pears and kiwis and vegetables such as tomatoes and lettuces whilst ensuring that other products met a basic set of standards.<br /><br />The Commissioner is however reported to have already run into trouble in the Council of Ministers with 18 of the 27 member states understood to be opposed to any changes with the French, Italians, Germans and Spanish amongst those planning to block any loosening up of the rules.<br /><br />Mr Parish said :-<br /><br />"Finally the European Commission comes up with a sensible idea aimed at getting rid of frankly silly rules which are all about the shape and not the quality of the product and lo and behold the usual suspects line up to block it. Quite why the French, Spanish, Germans and Italians want to continue the unjustified ban on bendy cucumbers is beyond me.<br /><br />"The new rules will still ensure that all fruit and veg is clean and healthy whilst allowing people to enjoy the diversity that normal production brings. The regulations as they stand are unnatural, wasteful and serve no practical purpose other than ensuring that fruit and veg looks good. The British government must now support the Commission and use its influence to make other member states see sense."Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-53290091006331411762008-06-05T09:55:00.002+02:002008-06-05T10:04:17.924+02:00June 10th - New Park Plans Revealed, Clifton PrimaryThe long awaited plans for the new look Waddington Park will be revealed on the 10th of June between 3 and 6 pm. The presentation hosted by Clifton Primary School will be led by Cllr Keith Hyde whom has been instrumental in getting this project off the ground.<br /><br />Keith Said "Iam delighted with the scheme and the new Park Friends Committee made up of local parents is full of enthusiasm and raring to go, the local residents are fully behind the scheme, we will use the 10th to get the fundraising programme off the ground"<br /><br />Residents from Heyhouses and Park Wards are invited to attend the showing of the plans and it is hoped that we can sign more people up to help with the project. The scheme includes areas for young and old alike, also incorporating a nature reserve area. Clifton County Primary School will also adopt an area on the Park to develop and maintain as part of the schools environmental awareness programme.<br /><br />Keith added "This key area of the Ward will become a focal point for the whole community and teenagers will also have their own area to enjoy, I hope the community will come out to support our work"<br /><br />Residents can also view the progress of the park at the Friends Group's own website www.makewaddywonderfull.org.ukUnknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-22183646124849140802008-05-30T23:20:00.006+02:002008-12-09T17:59:20.182+01:00Global Warming - How could this affect the Fylde Coast?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtaRMz3sa1xjJtwZ3btEbHRcPNQdvKnWVvzs0BCwgQNtdLoTXWMCflPlBoa8Ky0oFsR5SbrZIzQ_Xi2vYiWY-M9scVEmE0MohSaFHJEQRL6IfvY6mWPyqjXei28AFh_ICZtbztAGhw9Qc/s1600-h/1M+Rise.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMtaRMz3sa1xjJtwZ3btEbHRcPNQdvKnWVvzs0BCwgQNtdLoTXWMCflPlBoa8Ky0oFsR5SbrZIzQ_Xi2vYiWY-M9scVEmE0MohSaFHJEQRL6IfvY6mWPyqjXei28AFh_ICZtbztAGhw9Qc/s400/1M+Rise.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206285178209910930" /></a><br /><br />New United Nations projections for Global Warming and rising sea levels highlight the vulnerability of the North West and show just why all of us need to do more to conserve energy and reduce our CO2 emissions. Fylde Council has just been accepted by DEFRA as an area for investment for new Coastal Defence improvements. A 9 Million Pounds bid for urgent to the sea wall at Grannies Bay, is just the start of a long list of much needed improvements. This slide shows the impact that just a 1 meter sea level rise would have on the Borough.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU9EorU7Rv-EIEABFyP0VgQfaxtxa2GkfeEsfa5jfy_siv09NLPEp2Nxpm9H46rl5iqIkO6UCdJp7roduOEqQnXzy4SIUl41mFbBP7qJXRO9Bz-4zCcViKlZl8Qmos95xWawzH2-ILPsSQ/s1600-h/+4M+Rise.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU9EorU7Rv-EIEABFyP0VgQfaxtxa2GkfeEsfa5jfy_siv09NLPEp2Nxpm9H46rl5iqIkO6UCdJp7roduOEqQnXzy4SIUl41mFbBP7qJXRO9Bz-4zCcViKlZl8Qmos95xWawzH2-ILPsSQ/s400/+4M+Rise.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206286191822192802" /></a> A 4 Meter Rise in Sea Levels.<br />This projected 4 meter rise in sea levels shown here is a realistic projection by 2050 based on current models. The East of the Borough is most under threat and thought will have to be given to the potential threat to future development in these areas. Some coastal areas of the UK are already experimenting by removing sea defences and allowing old flood plains to absorb the incoming tides, could this be a possibility for the Peninsula in the future?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJENazGs1zn9KcjEQiXiBkPRchSOyszK5JfHgUgI9ADOECI8pN3mBfU6yiOlQJllacU3TtbtCmhOinqZVlGH1DGIhCJJ59ILOGmAWVL7OtXpPyklyUEXqO-o7Ftt1v9bppHlm_zNvOf6bx/s1600-h/8M+Sea+Rise.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJENazGs1zn9KcjEQiXiBkPRchSOyszK5JfHgUgI9ADOECI8pN3mBfU6yiOlQJllacU3TtbtCmhOinqZVlGH1DGIhCJJ59ILOGmAWVL7OtXpPyklyUEXqO-o7Ftt1v9bppHlm_zNvOf6bx/s400/8M+Sea+Rise.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206286496764870834" /></a> Potential impact of a 8 Meter Rise in Sea Levels. Significant investment has been made all along the North West Coastline from Morecambe down to Starr Gate in Blackpool, yet this slide highlights how difficult it is to protect the inland areas, Lancaster and Preston also being affected. Fylde however is the weak link in the Fylde peninsula flood defences, highly dependent on natural defences, which can withstand a high tide or two, but which would be ineffecive against a prolonged episode due to rising sea levels. The Government and MP's across the North West must increase their efforts to gain funding in light of these new projections and help lobby the Chancellor for additional funds towards Coastal Defence improvements along both sides of the Ribble Estuary. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbLRR5w3LY50m_eh8-h2wY6iBo56DPXZqK5wXcR4jUJR4jFTKb5YZcO6ohnty-VRsjMwFGAMnqqUvF7KRQ3Dfpa9YD7Le9HQf0sM3h2PYPDltO8OkR4GezGeVGCEfCi9vzwJWuBmanCnI/s1600-h/10M+Rise.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXbLRR5w3LY50m_eh8-h2wY6iBo56DPXZqK5wXcR4jUJR4jFTKb5YZcO6ohnty-VRsjMwFGAMnqqUvF7KRQ3Dfpa9YD7Le9HQf0sM3h2PYPDltO8OkR4GezGeVGCEfCi9vzwJWuBmanCnI/s400/10M+Rise.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206286810297483458" /></a> A 10 Meter Rise in Sea Levels would seriously affect the lives of all Coastal areas around the UK. Here in Fylde we are already working towards reducing our energy usage, however, the Borough does have some of the worst residential energy and C02 emissions figures in the North of England. This is mainly down to the age and size of the homes in Fylde and the high % of car usage. The Fylde Low Waste & Energy project (FLoWE) will aim to reduce this usage by offering free advice on energy usage and grants towards home insulation. Whilst this work is ongoing, the Council must take on board these findings and continue to work with all it's partner organisations to help develop the best long term strategies for the Boroughs future generations.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-68809218436723688442008-05-23T11:46:00.000+02:002008-05-23T11:47:29.081+02:00European Parliament approves hypocritical tobacco subsidiesStrasbourg, 20th May 2008 -- The European Parliament voted today to maintain EU tobacco production subsidies, contrary to appeals from the Conservative Party. Conservatives MEPs are vehemently opposed to tobacco subsidies in the EU, which cost taxpayers millions of pounds.<br /> <br />More than £200 million (293 million euros) has been set aside to pay tobacco premiums in the 2008 EU budget, and an additional £10 million (14,250,000 euros) has been earmarked for the Community Tobacco Fund. Direct payments to tobacco farmers, which were due to expire in 2009, will run until 2012 as result of amendments passed last month in the European Parliament's Agricultural Committee.<br /> <br />Sir Robert Atkins Conservative MEP, said:<br /> <br />"It beggars belief that whilst food prices are going through the roof, we are still directly funding tobacco farms around Europe. On the one hand the EU talks about cutting dependency on tobacco, then on the other it sanctions an extra three years of direct tobacco subsidies, whilst virtually all other sectors have moved to an area based payment. <br /> <br />"We spend £200 million on funding tobacco, yet only £30 million in the UK on tobacco awareness schemes. The CAP should be supporting healthy products, not something like tobacco. We end up not only having to pay to support its cultivation, but also the huge costs in treating its effects. I am amazed that the Parliament has missed its last opportunity to put a stop to this ludicrous system."Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-22587691175609234282008-05-21T22:40:00.003+02:002008-12-09T17:59:20.685+01:00Launch of St Annes Library Friends Group<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioIkAL6Axr7EEXH0zinHeG31fOdSiqh0dnkqZUgnCpQSwmiBN51mY8-eqJSVLvdpbyCl7l5Y3r0Fe34xAs4hYim0oCXR_bLKBq2B3y7MV1pMahdSTtKaAlyiVkQfbCTB3jhYNgN3gGxQDw/s1600-h/st+annes+library.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioIkAL6Axr7EEXH0zinHeG31fOdSiqh0dnkqZUgnCpQSwmiBN51mY8-eqJSVLvdpbyCl7l5Y3r0Fe34xAs4hYim0oCXR_bLKBq2B3y7MV1pMahdSTtKaAlyiVkQfbCTB3jhYNgN3gGxQDw/s320/st+annes+library.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202934156393451666" /></a><br /><br />Tonight I attended a very informative meeting to launch the 'Friends of St Annes Library Group' hosted at the County Councils Carnegie Library on Clifton Drive in St Annes. The Group is to be formed to help raise 30,000 pounds to refurbish the gardens surrounding the building, the plans have already been drawn up and their completion will help lift what is already an impressive building.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjdDNrUGI3LhYXLZXI4ltVSxBC3l3rsw134Zo-z1Ag1RQj6kYTk24ZcJPicsRdO6b_V-t2HNIIs92ExJa17rJLyUtcU5MBfoUwzdx7aRtATaF-41orkgUisL29W6RdaPOShU3LzwgJkrQ/s1600-h/author_peter_shakeshaft.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnjdDNrUGI3LhYXLZXI4ltVSxBC3l3rsw134Zo-z1Ag1RQj6kYTk24ZcJPicsRdO6b_V-t2HNIIs92ExJa17rJLyUtcU5MBfoUwzdx7aRtATaF-41orkgUisL29W6RdaPOShU3LzwgJkrQ/s320/author_peter_shakeshaft.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202935045451681954" /></a><br />The evening was opened with a very informative presentation given by local historian Peter Shakeshaft. Peter's knowledge of the local area, the Library was deeply informative and even as a local lad was amazed to hear the stories of how our Town and Heyhouses Ward in particular were developed in the early years.<br /><br />The Annual General Meeting of the new Firends Group will be held on the 18th June at 18:30 at the Library and all residents are welcome to come along. There is a small membership of just 5 pounds to join the group, I hope that this will be a good cause that residents can get behind.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-35251093148181640622008-05-20T16:03:00.000+02:002008-05-20T16:04:30.632+02:00Lancashire Local Meeting - 27th May, 7pm, Kirkham Community CentreThe next meeting of the Fylde Lancashire Local will take place at 7 p.m. on Tuesday 27 May 2008 at the Kirkham Community Centre. The link to the agenda for the meeting is given below.<br /><br /><br />https://webmail1.fylde.gov.uk/exchweb/bin/redir.asp?URL=http://www3.lancashire.gov.uk/council/meetings/displayAgendas.asp?meetid=6479Unknownnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7041191989183992234.post-39035455056274324852008-05-09T18:34:00.002+02:002008-05-09T18:40:54.061+02:00Half Term - Planned Activities for Children across FyldeActivities planned for the May half term are as follows so please signpost your children and their schools to these events. There will be a leaflet to promote the being delivered around the appropriate locations in Fylde.<br /><br />The Council and it's partners are keen to ensure that children of all ages have varied activities across the Borough, as we all know keeping the kids occupied during the holiday's can be difficult so we hope that there will be something for everyone in the programme below.<br /><br />Mobile high ropes course and Archery<br />Weds 28th May 2008- Bridges playing field at Warton, 1-4pm<br />Fri 30th may 2008- Kirkham memorial Gardens, 1-4pm<br /> <br />Summer Sports outreach will be at the following locations around the area of Fylde. <br />There are some provisional dates for trips to Tower Wood over summer for young people to enjoy. (Outdoor activitiy centre in the lake district)These will be supervised trips and any parent can contact the Council for further details.<br /> <br />Sports Outreach<br />Monday 4th, 11th, 18th aug<br />1-3pm- bridges playing field warton, staining village playing fields, newton-school lane playing field, kirkham youth base.<br />4-6pm- mornington rd playing field, freckleton- lower lane, hove rd park st annes, blackpool rd north playing fields<br />7-9pm- park view playing fields, kirkham memorial gardens, hope st recreation ground, william pickles park- clifton<br /> <br />Tues 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th aug<br />1-3pm weeton army camp-the pavillion, blackpool rd nth playing fields, elswick village multi-games area, waddington rd field<br />4-6pm- ashton gardens, fleetwood rd park wesham, william pickle park,-clifton, freckleton-lower lane multi games area<br />7-9pm- kirkham memorial gardens, bridges playing field- warton, hope st recreation ground, hove rd park-st annes<br /> <br />weds 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th aug<br />1-3pm- bridges playing field- warton, newton-school lane playing field, staining village playing fields, weeton army camp-the pavillion<br />4-6pm- mayfield school field, mornington rd playing field, hove rd park-st annes, weeton army camp-the pavillion<br />7-9pm freckleton- lower lane, hope st recreation ground, kirkham memorial gardens, ashton gardens<br /> <br />thurs 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th Aug<br />1-3pm- weeton army camp-the pavillion, elswick village multi games area, staining village playing fields, kirkham youth base.<br />4-6pm- park view playing field lytham, fleetwood rd park wesham, william pickles field-clifton, ashton gardens<br />7-9pm- hope st recreation ground, kirkham memorial gardens, bridges playing field-warton, waddington rd field<br /> <br />Fri 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th Aug<br />1-3pm- bridges playing field- warton, staining village playing fields, waddington rd field, blackpool rd north playing field<br />4-6pm- mornington rd playing field, hove rd park- st annes, elswick village multi games area, newton-school lane playing field<br />7-9pm- ashton gardens, hope st recreation ground, freckleton-lower lane, mayfield school field.<br /> High Ropes<br /><br />The high ropes will be at the following destinations <br /><br />Tues 12th aug blackpool rd north 1-6pm<br /><br />Weds 13th aug bridges playing field warton 1-6pm<br /><br />Thurs 14th aug kirkham youth base 1-6pm<br /><br />Tues 19th aug freckleton, lower lane 1-6pm<br /><br />weds 20th aug, ashton gardens, 1-6pm<br /><br />thurs 21st aug, park view, lytham, 1-6pm<br /><br />Finally Proposed Tower Wood Trips. (each trip will accomodate approx 18 young people 11+)<br /><br />Tues 5th August all day (returning at end of day)<br /><br />Weds 6th Aug all day (returning at end of day)<br /><br />Weds 27th Aug to Thurs 28th Aug (overnight residential away)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com