Eastwood Leisure Centre opens in Sheerwater Comfortable and safe independent living 'Hales' older people - Woking ...
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Eastwood Leisure Centre
opens in Sheerwater
Comfortable and safe independent
living ‘Hales’ older people
Winter 2021 @wokingcouncil
www.facebook.com/wokingbc
Please read and then recycle
www.woking.gov.uk/thewokingmagazine
Winter | 2021
Introduction Contents
News in brief
Welcome to the Latest news from
across the borough
4
winter edition of
The Woking Eastwood Leisure Centre
Magazine – your New centre open for business 10
window on
Woking Borough. Victoria Arch widening scheme
Update on the highway
enhancement scheme
12
Winter is almost upon us and most of us are
gearing up for the colder months ahead. The
Introducing Hale End Court
festive season is a time for family, friends and
reflection. So it’s a great chance to look forward
Old Woking's latest extra care
housing development
16
to some of the exciting projects going on around
the borough. Money matters
With autumn being the season of change, we are See how your Council Tax is spent
3
18
thrilled to announce the completion of phase one t
in the Sheerwater Regeneration Project. The new p
Civic Awards
state-of-the-art Eastwood Leisure Centre is now
open for everyone to enjoy with inclusive leisure Honouring outstanding members of 20
facilities like no other. 1 RESIDENTS
the community
O
Why not wrap up warm and get out and about toF
Woking People R
of Faith
£
24
PROPERTIES
I
try out our new public arts trail? The 30 minute walk Explore the work of this diverse
starting in Brewery Road and finishing in Chobham local charity
i
Road is a unique and exciting way to take S in some
Discover Woking's Art Trail
of Woking’s art culture.
R
Elsewhere in the borough, Woking People of Faith
Take a stroll among
public art
D
iconic pieces of 26
E
have been working hard to deliver community and O
religious harmony, advancing the education and Why don’t you...
A
understanding of different beliefs. Find job seeking support 30
Now with winter upon us, these colder nights
L
mean A
only one thing, the festive season will soon be here.
Discover some the great events and activities
taking place across Woking to celebrate the festive
Contact details
The Woking Magazine is compiled and published three times a year
season safely with family and friends. by Woking Borough Council. A total of 50,000 copies are printed
and delivered free to households and many public information points
Woking are committed to supporting our across the borough.
community in delivering these wonderful and Editorial Team: Andy Denner, phone 01483 743026,
exciting projects coming to fruition. email andy.denner@woking.gov.uk Quantum PR,
phone 01233 500200, email charlie@quantumpr.co.uk
That just leaves me to wish you all a safe and Design: Quantum PR
joyous festive season and a happy new year.
If you wish to advertise in The Woking Magazine,
Andy Denner please call Andy Denner on 01483 743026, or email
andy.denner@woking.gov.uk
The Woking Magazine
Editor The appearance of adverts or loose leaf inserts in The Woking
Magazine does not constitute an endorsement by the Council. The
Woking Magazine is distributed to households via Royal Mail. We
have no control over the type or quantity of other materials that are
delivered by Royal Mail at the same time.
Front cover: Freedom Leisure Some content within this publication may pre-date
instructor, Chris, taking Ben current government imposed regulations in force to
through his paces
Inset: Hale End Court control the spread of Coronavirus.
www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855 3
Winter | 2021 News in brief... News in brief... News in brief... News
New hospital discharge service for Woking
A new hospital discharge support service is leading the way in linking patients discharged from local
hospitals with borough council services.
Dedicated council officers will work with patients who and Wellbeing, said: “The service enables patients
have been identified as requiring non-complex, leaving hospital to settle back at home with the
ongoing care, to help them easily peace of mind that they will
access the support they need to continue to have access to services
regain their independence once and support, despite no longer
back at home. being in hospital, with the aspiration
of reducing re-admittance numbers
Upon leaving hospital, Discharge and therefore relieving pressure on
Officers will assist patients to create front line services.”
a bespoke care plan with individual
goals identified, linking them directly The service is funded by the North
to council services such as West Surrey Alliance Board and
community meals, handyperson offered to all vulnerable patients
service, social prescribing and across North West Surrey needing
housing. support on discharge from Ashford
and St Peter’s Hospitals, Walton
Speaking about the new service, Cllr Community Hospital and Woking
Debbie Harlow, Woking Borough Community Hospital.
Council’s Portfolio Holder for Health
Have you considered We will remember them
volunteering? Join veterans, serving members of the military,
cadets and other organisations to honour and
Volunteer Woking offers a wide variety of
remember fallen soldiers on Sunday 14
volunteering roles and options, making it
November 2021 during a Service of
easier than you think to find something that
Remembrance.
makes a difference and fits around your
interests, skills and lifestyle. The ceremony will commence at 10.30am with
Whether you have an hour a week to spare, an Marching of Colours. A two-minute silence will be
evening a month or you would like to support a held at 11am before concluding with the laying of
one off event, there’s something for all ages and wreaths.
abilities. Here’s just a few of our latest Organisations or individuals wishing to have a
opportunities: wreath laid during the event should contact
Brockhill Helpers Pauline Jackson by emailing
Brockhill sheltered accommodation team in pauline.jackson@woking.gov.uk, or calling
Goldsworth Park is looking for volunteers to 01483 743025, giving the name of the
assist with their tenant days out. organisation.
Oxfam Retail Volunteer A two-minute silence
Opportunities to work at one of Oxfam’s retail will also be observed
stores, either on the shop floor or in the in Jubilee Square at
backroom. 11am on Armistice
Day,Thursday 11
Woking Sea Cadets & Royal Marines Cadets November.
Instructors
Uniformed adult instructors to help with ongoing We will remember
progression of successful unit. Available them.
Monday and Thursday evenings and some
weekends.
Interested? Find out more about these and many
other volunteering opportunities by emailing
volunteer@woking.gov.uk, call 01483 743851 or
visit www.volunteerwoking.org.uk
4
in brief... News in brief... News in brief... News in brief...
Boost your immunity and get the right health advice this winter
The NHS is here to help and there are a number close contacts of immunocompromised
of ways you can help the NHS help you this individuals
winter by using the service that best meets
your needs. frontline health and social care staff.
Flu and Covid-19 viruses have the potential to Covid-19 booster
increase pressures faced by the NHS, it’s therefore
important that you get vaccinated if you are eligible. Covid-19 booster doses could be offered (correct
at time of print), starting with those most at risk of
Those eligible for the free flu vaccination are: the disease. This will include people aged over 70,
clinically extremely vulnerable adults and those who
all children aged 2 to 15 (but not 16 years or are immunosuppressed. If you are eligible you will
older) on 31 August 2021 be contacted in the coming weeks.
those aged six months to under 50 years in NHS 111
clinical risk groups
If you need urgent medical help go to NHS 111
pregnant women first, available 24/7, visit www.111.nhs.uk or call
111. In a medical emergency or if someone’s life is
those aged 50 years and over
at risk, always call 999.
those in long-stay residential care homes
For more information, please visit
carers www.surreyheartlandsccg.nhs.uk/winterwellness
Get your Surrey Carers’ Flu Jab Voucher
If you are a carer looking after someone who is that you are known to carers services and are
elderly or disabled, you can request a flu jab at therefore entitled to a free vaccination.
your GP practice or take a Surrey Carers’ Flu Jab
Voucher to your nearest participating community Find out more about the Surrey Carers’ Flu Voucher
pharmacy. The vouchers provide the assurance at Action for Carers Surrey by visiting
www.actionforcarers.org.uk/flu
New Beginnings exhibition returns to The Lightbox
Unique works of art from the Women’s Support centre support clients to recognise and
Centre will go on display, as the ‘New Beginnings’ address their needs with the aim of
art exhibition returns to The Lightbox. reintegrating back into the community
and leading a more stable life.
Showcasing the diverse range of artistic talent
displayed by women across the county, the exhibition It provides bespoke, person centered,
features work submitted to the Women’s Support one-to-one support to clients and runs
Centre, which is open to all women in Surrey prisons a weekly drop-in session. Support can
or those in contact with the Criminal Justice System. include assistance with housing,
accessing benefits, parenting,
This year’s theme ‘My Hidden Self’ was selected by advocacy at court and signposting to
the women and staff of the centre. appropriate specialist agencies.
The Women's Support Hope by Alex
The exhibition is open at The Lightbox until
Centre offers help and 28 November 2021. For more information, please visit
support to women at www.thelightbox.org.uk
risk of coming into
contact with the The annual art competition for women is run by the
Criminal Justice Women’s Support Centre and supported by The
System. Staff at the Lightbox and Woking Borough Council.
Japanese Cherry Blossoms by Ann
www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855 5
Winter | 2021 News in brief... News in brief... News in brief... News
New electric vehicle charging points
Twenty new on-street electric vehicle (EV) charging bays are due
to be available in Woking this autumn.
There will be four bays each in Church Street East, Oriental Road,
Maybury Road and Montgomery Road. Another site is yet to be
determined.
It will only take a couple of hours for the 22 kilowatt charging points
to charge up to 80% of an EV battery, at a cost of 30p per kilowatt
hour (kWh) (based on a Nissan Leaf 2018 with a battery capacity of
40 kWh). The new chargers are part of a trial funded by Woking
Borough Council, Surrey County Council and Enterprise M3 Local
Enterprise Partnership.
The aim of the trial is to understand key issues relating to on-street
charging and the impacts of installing chargers, such as the cost,
policies, public support and maintenance. The lessons learnt from
the trial will be used to inform the roll-out of charging infrastructure
across Surrey.
These points are in addition to charging points already available in
Brewery Road, Shoppers and Victoria Way town centre car parks.
For more information about electric vehicles, including a charging
point map, visit www.surreycc.gov.uk/electricvehicles
Have you heard the word?
Did you know that Woking has its own talking
newspaper?
Here at Woking Talking Newspaper (WTN), volunteers
record articles weekly from the Woking and
Chobham News & Mail and editions of The Woking
Magazine, providing a free service for the benefit of
visually impaired residents of all ages and those who
have difficulty holding a newspaper.
The service enables users to stay in touch with news
in and around Woking, and provides them with topics
of conversation with relatives, neighbours, carers and
friends.
Access to the newspaper is available online, via the
Alexa app or using special equipment that can be
provided free of charge and is straightforward to use.
WTN is actively seeking new listeners, so please
pass on details to anyone you know who may enjoy
or benefit from the free service.
You can listen to the material and check if the
prospective listener would like this service by visiting
www.wokingtn.org.uk/listen
For more information, please contact WTN at
info@wokingtn.org.uk or call Tim Harris on 07971
512786.
6 www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855
in brief... News in brief... News in brief... News in brief...
Planning Inspector approves the Borough’s future
development policy
A planning policy document that identifies future Planning Inspector has found our Site Allocations
urban and Green Belt sites for future development DPD ‘sound and legally compliant’, subject to a
has been found ‘sound and legally compliant’ by a number of modifications.
Secretary of State appointed Planning Inspector.
“This is a significant step towards the adoption of the
The document identifies urban and Green Belt sites DPD, which will provide a positive framework for the
for future housing, employment and infrastructure future sustainable development of the Borough until
within the Borough to ensure development 2027 and safeguards land to meet future
requirements are met in a sustainable manner. development needs between 2027 and 2040.”
In the report the Inspector concluded that Woking’s Following its publication, the Inspector’s report and
Site Allocations DPD is ‘sound, legally compliant and main modifications will be considered by the relevant
has met the requirements of the Duty of committee before it is presented to Council for
Cooperation’, subject to his recommended schedule adoption later this year.
of main modifications.
To review the Inspector’s report, please visit
Cllr Gary Elson, Woking Borough Council’s Portfolio www.woking2027.info/allocations/sadpdexam/sad
Holder for Planning Policy, said: “After a long and pdreport
complex process, we are extremely pleased that the
Council commits to Anti-Social Behaviour Pledge
Woking Borough Council has signed a pledge, committing to support residents experiencing anti-
social behaviour in a consistent and dedicated manner.
The Anti-Social Behaviour Pledge is led by national a recent
victim’s charity, ASB Help, which actively promotes resident
the rights of people experiencing all forms of anti- satisfaction
social behaviour. survey. However,
we can all be
A key part of the pledge is to continue to affected by
encourage the use of community triggers, a legal incidents of
tool which empowers victims of persistent anti- abusive, violent
social behaviour to request a formal multi-agency or threatening
case review. behaviour.
In signing the Anti-Social Behaviour Pledge, “By signing the
Woking Borough Council has committed to: Anti-Social
Behaviour
promote awareness and publicise community
Pledge, we
triggers
believe it sends
ensure the council is legally compliant and a clear message
embraces the spirit of community triggers that we are
committed to
continually review and learn from best practice supporting local
people and creating safer communities for
work collaboratively and strategically to end residents.”
anti-social behaviour
A community trigger can be invoked by any
put victims first and deter perpetrators. resident or group of residents in the borough that
are suffering from what they believe is anti-social
Cllr Debbie Harlow, Woking Borough Council’s behaviour.
Portfolio Holder for Community Safety, said:
“Woking is generally a very safe place to live, with For more information about community triggers,
84 per cent of residents indicating they felt safe in please visit
www.woking.gov.uk/communitytrigger
www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855 7
Winter | 2021 News in brief... News in brief... News in brief... News
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8 www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855
in brief... News in brief... News in brief... News in brief...
New strategy to support residents’ health and wellbeing
A new strategy that sets out five key priorities to The strategy underpins the Council’s corporate
support the health and wellbeing of borough objective of ‘improving the health and wellbeing of
residents was approved by Full Council earlier all residents’ and demonstrates how council
this year. services impact the wellbeing of residents.
The Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2021-2031 takes The five cornerstones of the strategy.
into account the actions needed to support the
borough’s most vulnerable residents. Support and wherever possible, improve the
mental health of residents.
Health is impacted by a wide range of
circumstances including where you were born, Identify and support people experiencing social
grow up, live, work and isolation and loneliness.
age, as well as access
to, and quality of Reduce obesity.
Woking Borough Council
Living Well in Woking –
health, and social care.
a Health and Wellbeing These wider Empower residents to live independent lives.
Strategy 2021-2031
determinants of health
Support the wellbeing of carers.
can have a positive and
negative impact on As part of the strategy, an action plan will be
health.
developed to deliver these priorities, whilst
Councils can influence supporting diversity and inclusion, partnership
these determinants working, resident engagement and utilising digital
through its role in technology wherever possible.
planning, designing
and developing To read the strategy, and to find out more about
services for residents. health and wellbeing services in Woking, visit
1 www.woking.gov.uk/living-well
Get ready to nominate your local sporting heroes
It’s been a fantastic year for sport. England’s Euro 2020 success buoyed us all
after lockdown, Wimbledon made a welcomed return to our TV screens, and
hundreds of GB hopefuls competed in the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic
Games bringing home our biggest ever medal haul.
If that wasn’t enough, Emma Raducanu’s surprise Outstanding Service to Sport
US Open victory catapulted her into the history
books as the first British female to win a Grand Community Contribution of the Year
Slam singles title in 44 years, and the first qualifier
to win a tennis major. Team of the Year
Whether track or field, pitch or putting green, sport Health and Wellbeing Champion
is back and we want to hear about Woking’s
Nominations close at 5pm, Tuesday 30 November.
personal bests this season.
Award winners with be notified during December
Nominations for the 2021 Sport Woking Awards
and announced in the Woking News and Mail in
open on Monday 1 November and this year there
January 2022.
are seven categories to reflect the borough’s
diverse and flourishing sports scene. Terms and conditions apply. To review the
award criteria and make a nomination, visit
Sports Personality of the Year
www.woking.gov.uk/sportsawards.
Young Sports Personality of the Year For further information, email
sports.services@woking.gov.uk or
Inclusive Sports Award call 01483 743804.
www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855
Winter | 2021
The Eastwood Leisure Centre is now open
The new state-of-the-art leisure centre in
Sheerwater opened its doors to the public at
the start of October. Take a look around and
sign up now to take advantage of a range of
introductory offers.
The new Eastwood Leisure Centre is a £26m
investment by Woking Borough Council into
improving the health and wellbeing of residents
in Sheerwater.
The state-of-the-art facility, which includes a 25m
swimming pool, teaching pool, fitness suite, group
cycling studio, two multi-purpose studios and a flood- sports hall, 3G pitch and grass pitches on school
lit 3G football pitch, is now open to the public seven days between the hours of 9am and 6pm; and
days a week. dedicated use of the pools at set times, which is
agreed a term in advance.
Operated by Freedom Leisure, the Eastwood Leisure
Centre is open 7am and 10pm on weekdays and During opening hours, the gym, studios and ground
between 7am and 6pm at the weekends. floor café are available to everyone.
Visitors can enjoy daily access to the pool, sauna, Leader of Woking Borough Council, Cllr Ayesha
steam room and ground floor café serving Costa Azad, said: “When we started the Sheerwater
coffee, or become a member to benefit from Regeneration Project we made a promise to
unlimited access to the gym and group exercise Sheerwater residents that we would build the leisure
classes. The expanding programme of classes facilities first. We have fulfilled that commitment, on
already includes body pump, body balance, yoga, time and on budget, and I’m absolutely blown away
pilates, clubbercise, barre fusion and spinning, with by the level of detail and quality of these facilities.
more still to come.
“Our aim was to develop a community hub and I would
A community hub like to thank everyone who inputted into the design of
the leisure centre, which we believe is our most
The Eastwood Leisure Centre is a shared community inclusive facility to date, capable of supporting the
use facility. It took just under two years to build and is diverse range of need that exists within Sheerwater.”
the first phase of the wider Sheerwater Regeneration
With two Changing Places changing rooms; a pool
Project to be delivered.
with moveable floor, hoist and privacy blinds;
Bishop David Brown School has dedicated use of the accessible toilets on every level; and changing rooms
Five-court sports hall Accessible features and facilities throughout the building Ground floor café
10 www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855Group cycling studio 65 station gym with the latest Technogym equipment
that can be partitioned for different groups and Freedom Leisure Connected Membership to access
activities, the Eastwood Leisure Centre is by far the the new facilities at Eastwood Leisure Centre.
borough’s most accessible and inclusive sports facility.
Did you know?
With almost a quarter of adults and a third of children
now doing less than 30 minutes of moderate intensity Incorporated in the footprint of the main leisure
physical activity a week, the Eastwood Leisure Centre centre building is a brand new canteen and dining
offers women only swimming, adult swimming hall accessible only to Bishop David Brown School.
The school’s original canteen block was demolished
lessons and a range of low-impact exercise classes
to make way for the new Eastwood Leisure Centre
to build confidence and encourage people to start
car park.
being more active.
Eastwood Leisure Centre
Cllr Colin Kemp, Woking Borough Council’s Portfolio
Albert Drive, Woking GU21 5RF
Holder for Leisure, said: “We are committed to
01932 960994
improving the health and wellbeing of Woking’s www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/eastwood
residents and helping people all ages and abilities to @eastwoodleisurecentre
achieve healthier lifestyles through the provision of
high quality facilities.
“This is our third leisure centre in Woking and the
second adjoining to a high school. Please make the
most of them. They are for you, and each offers a
range of activities and concessions to suit everyone.”
To find out more about memberships, exercise
classes, court hire, swimming lessons and more,
drop in to the centre and have a chat with a member
of the Freedom Leisure team, or go to
www.freedom-leisure.co.uk/Eastwood
Woking Leisure Centre, Woking Pool in the Park and Car park with disabled parking bays, electric vehicle charging
Woking Sportsbox members can upgrade to a points and bicycle storage
Teaching pool with a moveable floor, hoist and privacy blinds 25 metre pool with viewing gallery, steam
room and sauna
www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855 11TOGETHER
This year we can be with friends and family,
so let’s make the festive season extra special!
From fantastic shopping to a great choice of
things to see and do, Woking has everything
you need to celebrate the perfect Christmas.
SKATING ON ICE!
Join us on ice at Woking Shopping this Christmas season
to experience Surrey’s newest ice rink! Our ice rink
will be open daily in the new Victoria Square at the end
of Commercial Way from Saturday 20 November right
through to Sunday 9 January.
So whether it’s a perfect day out for all the family that
you’re looking for, or a special treat after a long day of
Christmas shopping, our ice rink is sure to bring a smile
and a lot of wintery fun to your day!
SANTA’S GROTTO
No Christmas is quite complete without a visit to Santa!
So why not join us this festive season in Central Square,
Wolsey Place for your chance to meet the big man in red
himself and his cheeky elves in our Wintery grotto. The
grotto will be open from Saturday 20 November to Friday
24 December.
To find out more about skating
on ice or Santa’s Grotto, visit
www.woking-shopping.co.uk
IS IT TOO EARLY TO TALK ABOUT PANTO?
Oh no it isn’t! This Christmas will There will be singing, dancing, a live
be made all the more festive with band, stunning scenery, spectacular
the extra special Snow White and costumes and a laugh a minute at the
the Seven Dwarfs pantomime at New Victoria Theatre this Christmas.
the New Victoria Theatre. The show will be running from
Starring the uber-talented 4 December 2021 to 2 January 2022 and
Gok Wan as The Man in the tickets start from just £13 with offers for
Mirror, brilliant actress Harriet groups, under 16s, schools and seniors.
Thorpe as the Wicked Queen Book your tickets now at
and hilarious comedian Aaron www.atgtickets.com/woking or
James as Muddles plus many you won’t be able to look yourself
more talented people. in the mirror!CHRISTMAAS IS COMING
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Surrey.Winter | 2021
Comfortable and safe independent
living 'Hales' older residents
Introducing Hale End Court, Old Woking’s latest extra care housing
development featuring comfortable and modern apartments offering
flexible, care-based, independent living for older people.
Funded by Woking Borough Council and opened in Hale End Court is more than just a housing solution.
October 2021, Hale End Court in Old Woking features It’s a community with communal dining room, lounge
one and two bedroom self-contained apartments to and dedicated café provide ample opportunities for
assist elderly and frail individuals and couples live residents to socialise.
independently in a comfortable, homely environment.
Patio doors open out onto a communal courtyard and
Extra care housing is specialist housing designed for a first floor terrace, providing plenty of opportunity for
older people. It is similar to sheltered housing but recreational activities. A hair salon adds to the
also offers help with personal care and household creature comforts available on-site, as do the mobility
chores. Extra care can be very suitable for residents scooter charging ports.
with higher or changeable care needs whilst still
offering an independent living environment. In addition, a support team deliver an exciting
programme of events and activities providing daily
Situated on the site of a former car dealership, the entertainment, as well as supporting residents with
four-storey residence, provides 45 one and three two their health and social needs. Meanwhile, a
bedroom self-contained apartments. Each private dedicated care team will aid residents with their more
apartment has a modern kitchen containing washing practical needs, such as liaising with GP surgeries
machine, slim line dishwasher, contemporary wet and health care providers.
room and generous living space. Meanwhile, all the
apartments are adapted and appropriately modified
for secure living with devices such as door buzzers,
accessible bathrooms and emergency pull chords
fitted as standard.
16For peace of mind in an emergency, help is available at the push of a button, as each flat is linked to Woking Borough Council’s community alarm service, Careline. Emergency pull cords are fitted in each apartment and residents are provided with a personal pendant alarm allowing them to get help 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Residents also benefit from on-site care providers who can provide comprehensive care packages to suit individual needs. Cllr Debbie Harlow, Woking Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Housing, said: “With the average age of the population rising steadily, the creation of independent living facilities such as Hale End Court is absolutely vital to allow more borough residents to live as independently as possible, for as long as possible. These fully equipped, modern, yet affordable, dwellings will provide safe and comfortable homes for some of our most vulnerable residents, with the additional peace of mind that help is never far away should they require it.” Hale End Court has been fully funded by Woking Borough Council to support older residents to continue to live independently. It is the tenth supported living facility in the Council’s portfolio of affordable independent living homes How to apply There are still a small number of flats available at Hale End Court, if you are interested in applying, please contact the Independent Living and Extra Care Manager on 01483 743922 or email haleendcourt.enquiries@woking.gov.uk For more information about sheltered and support housing in Woking, please visit www.woking.gov.uk/housing/sheltered- housing-and-supported-living www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855 17
Money
matters
WE PROVIDE SERVICES TO OVER 100,
£83.3M INCOME FROM COUNCIL TAX
£111.3m INCOME RECEIVED
FROM COMMERCIAL £10.1M WOKING BOROUGH COUNCIL
SAVINGS
IDENTIFIED
COST OF
PROPERTIES
£11.1M SURREY POLICE £649
PROVIDING
SERVICES £18.2m £62.1m SURREY COUNTY COUNCIL K
174
million invested
in the Victoria
Square development
33 Million SHEERWATER
REGENERATION PROJECT
20
MILLION IMPACT
7.5
OF CORONAVIRUS ON
MILLION COUNCIL FINANCES
ON NEW COUNCIL HOUSING COVERED BY ONE-OFF
AND IMPROVEMENTS TO HOUSING STOCK SAVINGS AND INCOME
118K
IN GOVERNMENT
21.4
Million
GRANTS AWARDED
TO SUPPORT
LOCAL BUSINESSES
DURING PANDEMIC
IN GOVERNMENT
GRANTS AWARDED
TO SUPPORT ISOLATING RESIDENTS
DURING PANDEMIC
18 www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855Woking Borough Council has published its draft accounts for 2020/21. The accounts
include details of the Council’s income and expenditure between 1 April 2020 and
31 March 2021 and will be approved by Council following an audit which is scheduled
to begin later in the year. Key information is highlighted in the infographic below.
If you have any comments or questions about the information published below,
please email financialmanagement@woking.gov.uk
This infographic is a visual summary of the full Statement of Accounts. The accounts
are available to view by visiting www.woking.gov.uk
,000 TOTAL VALUE
RESIDENTS
INVESTMENTS
OF ASSETS HELD
£1,882M
TOTAL
RESERVES 2.78%AVERAGE
MADE IN
BOROUGH
OUR TOTAL BORROWING
£37M INTEREST WE PAY
ON OUR LOANS
£349M
£1,681M £18M CAPITAL GRANT, £325M BORROWING,
£2M CAPITAL RECEIPTS, £4 RESERVES
3m 8m 3m PUBLIC
ENVIRONMENTAL
REFUSE SAFETY
MANAGEMENT
CORPORATE &
DEMOCRATIC
PROCESSES 9
m LOCAL
7m ECONOMY
6m
22M
HOUSING, SOCIAL
P
4m
SERVICES AND PARKING
COMMUNITY SUPPORT RECREATION
AND CULTURE
www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855 19Winter | 2021
Outstanding members of the community
honoured
Outstanding members of Woking’s community have been honoured for their
achievements and services to the community at Mayor’s Civic Reception, hosted by
the Mayor of Woking, Cllr Liam Lyons.
The civic awards, which due to Coronavirus Young People’s Civic Awards Scheme
recognised the dedication of Woking residents
during the mayoral years 2019/2020 and 2020/2021, Celebrating its 25th year, the Young People’s Civic
were presented by former Mayor of Woking, Mrs Awards Scheme aims to reward young people who
Beryl Hunwicks. Each winner of the awards, make an outstanding contribution to the community
sponsored by The Ambassadors Theatre Group, whose work or achievements may not normally be
were presented with a glass trophy, certificate, and recognised.
vouchers including Nova Cinema tickets.
The judging panel included representatives from
Speaking about the awards, Cllr Liam Lyons, Mayor Woking Borough Council, Woking Youth Council,
of Woking, said: “On behalf of Beryl Hunwicks, Surrey Police, Sport Woking, and the voluntary sector.
former Mayor of Woking, and myself, it has been an
honour to host and present awards to these 2020 winners
exemplary members of our community. In different
Samuel Fox – Outstanding Contribution to the
ways, they have consistently gone above and beyond
Community
what is expected of them in their school, work or
Samuel is a dedicated musician
private lives. They are a true inspiration to us all and
who has given selflessly to
excellent role models for other young people in their
Woking College’s music
peer groups.”
department. His performing
Eminent Citizens ability has also brought a great
deal of pleasure to the wider
Each year, the Mayor of Woking selects a resident community, including playing with
who has provided an ‘eminent service’ to the Woking High School’s Wind Band
community and appoints them the Eminent Citizen for as principal percussionist and
that mayoral year. performing at many local fetes
and fairs. Keen to inspire the next generation, Samuel
Former Mayor of Woking from 2019 to 2021, Mrs also teaches drums to a number of young children.
Beryl Hunwicks, selected the following local citizens.
In the face of personal adversity, following the
Alice Potter – Eminent Citizen sudden death of his beloved father Colin, Samuel
2019/2020 demonstrated his determined spirit and pressed
Alice was appointed for her ahead with Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award
outstanding contribution to Surrey expeditions to Brecon Beacons and Dartmoor, taking
Police. Over many years, she has on the role of team leader.
been a visitor to custody suite
clients and provided chaplaincy Megan Hall – Triumph over Adversity
work to the Christian Police Megan is a compassionate young carer to her father,
Association. who also manages her own special educational
needs and disabilities. In her
Paul Rimmer – Eminent Citizen 2020/2021 spare time, she attends Woking
Paul was appointed following 31 years of Young Carers’ Group which
outstanding work for provides advice, friendship and
Horsell Common support to local young carers.
Preservation Society,
including working with Despite Megan’s medical issues
partners to develop and with the support of her
Heather Farm and peers, Megan completed her
Woking’s Muslim Burial Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award
Ground and Peace in 2019.
Garden.
20Lilly Poulter and Jai Kothari – joint winners of Jamie, her sister, has a very rare condition called
Outstanding Achievement McCune Albright Syndrome. To raise awareness,
Lilly is an outstanding Woking High School student Tyler has become an ambassador for her sister and
who represents her class on the school council and the challenges of her condition, including eloquently
is an active role model for other students coping with delivering a speech on the topic in a school
Dyslexia. assembly.
Outside of school, Lilly is a dedicated volunteer at Compassionate and determined, Tyler always pushes
Woking Gymnastics Club. In 2020, she passed her herself to fulfil her responsibilities both at college and
junior coaching exams and is a registered junior at home.
coach at the club. Prior to this achievement, she won
‘Recreational General Gymnast of the Year’ and Imaan Kashim – Outstanding Achievement
‘South East Regional Young Leader Award’ in 2018. Imaan is a talented and dedicated
classical violinist and guitarist. She
Jai is an exceptional has attained many outstanding
young chess player achievements for her musical ability,
who won over 20 junior including studying violin at the Royal
tournaments in 2019, College of Music, being a member
often competing of the Royal Concertgebouw
against young people Orchestra’s European Youth
up to four years older Orchestra, and performing at many
than himself. venues including appearing on
Britain’s Got Talent playing with the Chineke! Junior
In 2020, Jai was Orchestra.
selected by the English
Chess Federation to represent England in Greece for Nominations for the 2022 awards
the World Cadets/Youth Rapid/Blitz Chess
Championship. He also plays for the Surrey County Do you know an inspirational young person who
Chess Association squad and Surrey Border League. deserves to be nominated for their achievements
or support to the local community?
2021 winners
The annual civic scheme is open to all children
Keshav Raju Meesariganda – and young people, up to the age of 18, who live or
Outstanding Contribution to the attend school or college in the borough, and
Community includes the following three categories:
Keshav is an outstanding
Goldsworth Primary School student Outstanding Contribution to the Community
who, inspired by the efforts of – includes work in areas such as helping older
Captain Sir Tom Moore, organised or disabled people, working with children,
and undertook his own fundraising fundraising for good causes or getting involved
challenge to support the NHS with voluntary organisations.
heroes fighting Coronavirus.
Triumph Over Adversity – includes endurance
Despite busy days of home learning during lockdown, and bravery, such as overcoming a disability or
Keshav and his friend Nikki cycled 40 laps of their helping a parent or family member with a
school car park every evening until they had each disability.
clocked up 500 laps. Their efforts raised an impressive
£340 for the NHS Charities Together. Outstanding Achievement – covers excellence
in many fields: sport, music, drama, visual arts
Tyler Hankin – Triumph over Adversity and particularly less academic subjects that
Tyler is a hard are not normally recognised or rewarded.
working Woking
College student and The application form can be downloaded at
dedicated young www.woking.gov.uk/ypcivicawards or call
carer for her mother Woking Borough Council’s Democratic Services
and sister. team on 01483 755 855.
21Winter | 2021
Getting to know your local
Title
policing team
It’s important that the community know the local policing team and who we are as
people away from the job. We might wear a uniform and keep the Queen’s peace (the
historic role of policing) but we are all human. Here’s just a few of the team helping to
keep you safe in Woking.
PCSO Naz Svyntakh “Neighbourhood policing has changed a lot since the
‘officer on every street corner approach’ of the past.
“I have been We're smarter about what we do now however we're
working with Surrey just as committed to working with residents to create
Police since 2003. I a safer borough.
have been in
service for 18 “When I'm not at work I'm usually doing something
years, though it sport related. I'm a keen cricketer, playing every week
doesn’t feel that in the summer when I can and I'm also an Exeter City
long - I still clearly football fan so enjoy trekking across the country to
remember my first watch them play.”
day!
Sgt Sarah Wentworth
“I joined Surrey
Police to make a difference, by bringing my local “I have been with
knowledge, my background and my bilingual Surrey Police for the
language skills to the role. I believe that I have been last nine years,
able to make a positive impact in this way. You really Seven and a half of
feel like you are part of a family when working with these were in
police colleagues. Woking. I love
policing Woking as
“If I had one message for the public of Woking, it every day is
would be ‘treat each other with respect and look after different with a
each other honestly’. It has been an absolute great and diverse
pleasure working for Surrey Police and serving the community to
community of Woking, and I hope to continue for support in my role.
years to come!”
“I am a keen footballer, support Aston Villa and
PC Tom Hinch represented the Great British Women’s Police football
team at the European Championship in Prague. I see
“I have been sport as a key engagement tool which we
working in Woking demonstrated recently with the Kick Off @ 3
for the past year tournament we held at Woking Sportsbox.
and really enjoy the
variety of policing “My role is to lead and support our team in tackling
you experience. In crime and neighbourhood issues which have a
quite a small area detrimental impact on our community. I work with our
there are so many fantastic partner agencies in Woking to solve these
different and varied longer term problems.”
challenges, types of
crime and
encounters you come across.
So next time you see Naz, Tom or Sarah out on
“I am a Neighbourhood Specialist Officer which the beat, why not stop and say hello? To stay up-
means I'm able to find issues which matter to local to date with the team’s activities in Woking, follow
people and take a longer term approach to solving @WokingBeat on Twitter or @WokingPolice on
them. It's about going beyond the initial response Facebook.
and making lasting change.
22 www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 75585522Residents: Have your say
Earlier this year, Woking Borough Council committed to establishing effective,
two-way dialogue with residents and key stakeholders, giving a voice to all members
of the community.
As a result, the Council relaunched Woking Residents’ Masterplan which will take into account the initial
Panel consisting of over 750 engaged local residents feedback received.
and created an online civic space, known as Woking
Community Forum, where all residents can have their It is anticipated that the draft Masterplan will be
say on the Council’s activities. presented to Council late spring 2022, before a
formal in-depth and wide ranging public consultation
The Community Forum has been used to publish and will begin later next year.
seek views on the Council’s draft Housing Strategy and
Economic Development Action Plan and more recently Once the formal phase of consultation is complete,
two significant consultations have commenced that will all comments received will be reviewed and the draft
help shape the future of the borough – a Masterplan for Masterplan updated before it is presented to Council
Woking Town Centre and the Council’s corporate for adoption in 2022.
priorities and financial budgeting.
More information on the Masterplanning process will
Woking Town Centre Masterplan be published in future editions of The Woking
Magazine.
The Masterplan will seek to establish an overarching
vision for Woking Town Centre that will enable Corporate priorities and budgeting
sustainable development including new homes, a consultation
thriving business and retail destination as well as
strengthening Woking as a cultural, recreational and As part of establishing an effective dialogue with
community destination. residents, a comprehensive consultation and
engagement programme has begun to help local
It will provide a long-term vision of what Woking communities feel better informed, whilst assisting the
could look like by 2030 and beyond by working with Council better understand the issues and key
residents and key stakeholders. priorities of local communities.
Informed by robust evidence and wide community As part of the process, a series of in-person
engagement, the Masterplan will set out detailed roadshows are being held during October and
standards and principles to guide the day-to-day November 2021 at venues across the borough, led by
decisions to achieve the vision, such as building Leader of Woking Borough Council, Cllr Ayesha
height and density. Azad, and Chief Executive, Julie Fisher.
To begin the process, during late summer a series of Roadshows are open to all residents and
virtual workshops were held with Woking Residents’ stakeholders. Dates and booking details are available
Panel, who gave their views on the current by visiting www.communityforum.woking.gov.uk
development of Woking Town Centre and their
aspirations for the future. Complementing the roadshows is a questionnaire
asking residents for their views on the Council’s
In addition, face-to-face meetings have been future corporate plan and priorities. Whilst anyone
conducted with key employers within the borough to can complete the questionnaire, 3,000 copies have
understand their future needs and wants for a been sent to randomly selected households across
prosperous future. the borough. If you’ve received a copy, do take the
time to complete and return it. In addition, a separate
Once this phase of informal engagement is consultation on the Council’s financial budgeting is
complete, the Council will embark on drafting a also underway.
Feedback gathered through the roadshows and
For information on the Masterplan and corporate questionnaire will assist the Council to develop a new
priorities consultation, please visit five year corporate plan and key priorities for the
www.communityforum.woking.gov.uk borough.
www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855 23Winter | 2021
Woking’s hidden jewel
Woking is a diverse, multi-cultural, multi-ethnic and multi-faith community. More than ever,
understanding between different cultures, ethnicities and faith communities is essential.
Here we find out about the work of local charity, Woking People of Faith.
Promoting understanding amongst the borough’s “At the heart of good
various faith groups was why Woking Borough interfaith relations is dialogue
Council helped establish Woking People of Faith between real people. This is
(WPoF) around 15 years ago. Under the motto about mutual respect and
‘Diverse Beliefs: United Action’, the charity’s purpose mutual listening. It is entering
is to promote community and religious harmony. the world of the other and
engaging in genuine
Key aims and objectives conversations about faith.
This builds trust and creates
Promote knowledge, mutual understanding and possibilities of working
respect of the beliefs and practices of different together in authentic ways.
faiths. We listen in order to understand and we understand in
order to make a difference. And such dialogue is at
Advance the education and understanding of
the heart of Woking People of Faith.” Rev Phil Simpson
different beliefs including an awareness of their
(Christian)
distinctive features and their common ground.
“Whether working locally,
Promote good relations between people of
regionally, nationally or
different faiths.
internationally, the object of
Its members include most of the faith communities in interfaith is the same - to get
the Woking area, whose representatives explain more to know other human beings
about its work. and respect that we are full of
positive similarities, while the
“Why does interfaith work diversity of beliefs and
matter? Prejudice is the ill- cultures is part of the beauty
founded perception of a of humanity. The more
grouping. Once you know involved we become in interfaith work, the more we
people as individuals, recognise that ‘the Earth is but one country and
prejudices fall away. So Mankind its citizens’” Simon Trick (Baha’i).
interfaith work weakens
prejudice, not least because To support the ethos of the charity, WPoF host many
it rapidly becomes apparent varied events and activities including topical interfaith
that the ethical values which unite faith communities discussions; online international cooking lessons;
are more significant than the theological differences football tournament; environmental work with Horsell
which divide them.” Philip Goldenberg (Jewish). Common Preservation Society; ladies’ coffee mornings
and discussions; and Faith in Action – a series of
“There may be reluctance interviews with people of different faiths where they
from some people to explain how their faith influences their life and work.
engage with people of other
faiths, maybe there is a fear All these events, in their different contexts, reflect the
of proselytising or having learning and appreciation in which people of different
their beliefs questioned. backgrounds participate together and provide
When we are firmly rooted in opportunities to remove the barriers of prejudice and
our own beliefs, we are in a misunderstanding which so often divide communities.
better position to engage
with people of other faiths. I For more information about Woking People of
have also found, through Faith, including how to get involved and details
interfaith dialogue, my own faith has been enriched.” of forthcoming events, visit www.wpof.org.uk
Kawther Hashmi (Muslim).
24 www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855New burial site and wetland area within
Brookwood Cemetery
As part of the ongoing restoration of Brookwood Cemetery,
7,000 cubic metres of contaminated land has been remediated
to create a beautiful new burial site and wetland area.
The new five and half acre site will be used Woking Borough Council’s
predominantly for Muslim burials as other sites begin Lead Member for
to reach capacity. Brookwood Cemetery, Cllr
Kevin Davis, said: “In July
This has created space for another 480 individual 2020, the Council approved
burial plots spread across two grassland areas which the Brookwood Cemetery Masterplan and
are linked by a raised boardwalk and complete with Experience Plan which set out a number of broad
contemplation spots and benches. policies by which the site will be managed and
developed in the future.
It also features new planting and a number of
unusual ornamental tree and shrub species that
resonate with the cemetery’s Victorian design, along
with native shrubs and wildflower.
Ian Tomes, Woking Borough Council’s Asset Manager,
said: “It has taken us three years to remediate the land
which was used by the previous owners as an illegal
tip site. With the help of a range of specialist
contractors, we’ve been able to screen the material on
site and use it to form two grass covered mounds, the
The Mayor of Woking, Cllr Liam Lyons, receiving a tour of the
tops of which will be used for internments.
new burial area and wetland led by Brookwood Cemetery
Manager, Avril Kirby.
“The boardwalk design also takes into account the
site’s fluctuating water levels, and we’ve added “They support a vision of a sustainable working
marginal aquatic planting to enhance the cemetery leading the way in heritage conservation
appearance of the wetland.” which other sites will look to. I think these latest works
are a really good example of how we intend to
As well as the provision of good quality grave space improve the site while also retaining and enhancing
and environmental improvements, the £800,000 all the special features that make Brookwood
project also capitalised on some of the cemetery’s Cemetery so unique.”
historical features, supporting the council’s aim of
transforming Brookwood Cemetery into a major For more information about the new burial area,
heritage destination. please visit www.brookwoodcemetery.com
7,000 cubic metres of material was screened on site Raised boardwalk and contemplation spot
www.woking.gov.uk | 01483 755855 25You can also read
