Maidenhead & Windsor

Making sure The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead has sufficient high quality residential accommodation to cater for the needs of its growing population of older people – especially those who need a very high level of care – is a key part of social services planning and this week sees the start of a major consultation on the improvement and expansion of one residential home in Windsor.

Cabinet, meeting last Thursday (November 24), agreed that the views of residents and staff at Wardens Lodge, Windsor, would be an essential part of any future plans to turn the out-of-date 26-bed unit into a brand new home, purpose-built to provide around 50 places with modern facilities, including en suite toilets and showers.

Importantly, it would be equipped and staffed to care for very frail older people and those suffering from dementia or severe disabilities – the current building does not allow for this high level of care and concern has been raised by the Commission for Social Care Inspection (CSCI).

A similar scheme has already started at 21 Courthouse Road, Maidenhead, where the aging building has given way to construction of a state-of-the-art 76-bed unit to be completed in October 2006. At the same time there has been an increase of "extra care" sheltered housing to meet the needs of older people who, with home care and other support, are enabled to maintain their independence in the community.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Pam Proctor, lead member for social services, said there was a pressing need for the borough to plan for more and better accommodation for its older residents but the views and concerns of everyone involved at Wardens Lodge – residents, their relatives and staff – must be taken into account before a final decision was reached.

She explained: "We are very sensitive to the needs of residents and we appreciate that Wardens Lodge is their home, so we want this consultation to be an open and genuine channel for them and their families to express their views about how they would like to see residential care developing in the future."

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Proctor stressed the council's aim of making sure that the Royal Borough has the accommodation it needs to provide for the many and sometimes complex needs of the aging population. "We are looking at how this can best be achieved over the next few years without sacrificing the quality care already being provided for our existing residents," she said.

Unfortunately, Warden's Lodge, which was built in the 1960s, is now out of date. Some of the rooms do not meet CSCI registration space standards and none have en suite facilities to afford residents the privacy they need.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Proctor said: "Wardens Lodge is well regarded in the community for its caring environment and staff and we would like to build on this reputation to provide for the borough's needs in the future. However, no final decision has been taken - and will not be until after the consultation gives us the opportunity to consider everyone's views."

The joint commissioning strategy for older people, adopted by the council and the Windsor, Ascot and Maidenhead Primary Care Trust, shows that the borough's population of over 65s is expected to rise by 7% by 2006. The most significant increase will be in the numbers aged 85 and over (forecast to increase by 17% in the same period). The strategy also predicts an 11.5% increase in the number of people with dementia, again with the greatest increase (20%) in the 85+ age group.

Jim Gould, Windsor and Maidenhead director of social services, said: "Even with the new residential accommodation at 21 Courthouse Road and recent extra care accommodation, the Royal Borough does not have enough appropriate residential accommodation to cope with future demand. The strategy makes it clear that we must take steps now to put that right and we are moving forward with partners in housing associations to address the problem.

"The idea to develop Wardens Lodge so that it could be registered for older people needing high levels of care could be a tremendous help but we need to get people's views at this early stage before reaching a conclusion."

Through partnership working with local housing associations, the Windsor and Maidenhead council has already developed new extra care facilities at Maudlsey House, Maidenhead, Christian Smith House in Woodlands Park and Viscount Court in Windsor. A new extra care scheme opened earlier this year at Elizabeth Court in Maidenhead, taking the total of extra care flats available up to 80.

The Wardens Lodge consultation, starting this week, will involve one-to-one meetings with residents, their families and staff, giving them the opportunity to discuss their own personal needs and circumstances and to talk through the options available. There will also be discussions with the council's partner organisations such as health, a wide range of voluntary organisations and others.

The consultation will also give the borough the opportunity to get people's views about how best to enhance the Wardens Lodge day centre facilities in the future, either by close working with the voluntary sector on the current site or by reproviding the service on a different site.

The consultation will last until January 31 2006 with a report going to cabinet in February 2006 for further consideration.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead ~ 29-Nov-2005

Residents are refusing to back down in their campaign to stop a Maidenhead garage selling alcohol.

An Esso Garage in Gringer Hill, Maidenhead, has shelved plans for a 24 hour licence to sell refreshments, including alcohol.

It has now modified the proposals, proposing to close at midnight, after taking advice from police.

But Maidenhead Cllr Humaira Javed, who has collected a 50-signature petition from residents, says this is not enough.

With round the clock drinking laws taking effect from midnight Wednesday, she said: "This piece of legislation has just not been thought through by the government.The people who will bear the consequences will be the local authorities and the police - who are already over-stretched - and residents."

An Esso spokesman confirmed this week that they had now modified their proposed opening hours from 6 am until midnight.

But Maidenhead Cllr Javed said: "I am just not happy about this. Once the precedent has been set they could apply again in a year, and extend if by an hour. They could then just go on and until they get what they want."

Maidenhead Residents worst fears about the possible effects of a 24 drinks licence were confirmed when there was a brawl involving a group out-side the Esso station on Saturday night.

Cllr Javed said: "The garage is well lit and it is bound to attract people at all times of the day. Residents are not happy about these proposals. As far as we are concerned the battle goes on."

A spokesman for Maidenhead Esso said: "We want to stress that the alcohol will be sold for consumption off the premises and the store manager at our site is trained to the british Institute of Innkeeping Awarding Body's national level certificate for personal license holders."

The application from Esso is to be considered before the royal borough licensing committee on December 14. This is a public meeting so every who is concerned about this issue is invited to attend.

ic Berkshire ~ Maidenhead ~ Nov 25 2005

Residents are fighting to stop scores of gravel lorries rumbling down their Maidenhead road. They are backing proposals for the gravel to be transported along the River Thames by barge. Digging for gravel on a site in Summerleaze Road, Maidenhead, is due to start in July next year.

Residents are concerned about the 60 lorries a day travelling in and out through residential areas. Maidenhead Gravel extraction company Summerleaze Ltd also supports the proposals to move the gravel by river. But in order to finance this, the company needs to allow housing development on its Summerleaze Road, Maidenhead site - which is Green Belt.

Matthew Williams, chairman of Summerleaze Area Residents Association, said they wanted to see the lorries off the streets and taken away from the Summerleaze Road area. He said: "The lorries will be using an existing lorry route, but we will have never seen or heard anything like this before. There will be 120 lorry movements each day, starting at 7 am including Saturday mornings, every day for 20 years or more, winding their way through Maidenhead back streets.

"Do we really want this? No, is the resounding answer I have have had from residents in the Summerleaze area."

Mr Williams said Maidenhead residents were in favour of allowing Summerleaze to develop its Green Belt site so that it could cover the costs of transporting gravel by river.

Mr Matthew said: "For councillors to say that building on Green Belt land acts as a precedent that will open the floodgates to developers is a blanket ban cop-out. While I agree that this land should be protected these are exceptional circumstances. Each and every case has to be looked at, and the pros and cons weighed up. " He added: "Far from being the the butterfly and buttercup Green Belt land, the plot of land we are talking is a grubby little corner currently used by the Summerleaze Ltd as a processing station.

"The public that I have spoken to, those with a vested interest in the area, are willing to trade a small piece of Green Belt and pay the price."

Mr Michael Lowe, a director on the board of Summerleaze, Maidenhead said they supported the proposals to transport the gravel by barge along the Thames. "I don't disagree with any of it," he said. But he said they needed to be able to finance this through housing development on their land at the Summerleaze Road depot.

"The major hurdle is that the Summerleaze site is still Green Belt," said Mr Lowe. The company has planning permission for mineral extraction until 2042, but not to build there. Mr Lowe confirmed that there would be 60 lorries using Summerleaze Road once gravel extraction started.

ic Berkshire ~ Maidenhead ~ Nov 25 2005

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 4 December 2005 - 10th December 2005
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

4th Dec at Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights

5th Dec at Maidenhead

No events planned

6th Dec at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
The Gruffalo's Child
* 1:00 pm
The Gruffalo's Child
* 7:30 pm
The Sun (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Paintings of Mystery and Imagination

7th Dec at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
The Gruffalo's Child
* 1:00 pm
The Gruffalo's Child
* 7:30 pm
Kinky Boots (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Paintings of Mystery and Imagination

8th Dec at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
The Gruffalo's Child
* 1:00 pm
The Gruffalo's Child
* 7:30 pm
Kinky Boots (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
* 6:30 pm
Norden Lights Academy

9th Dec at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:30 am
The Gruffalo's Child
* 1:00 pm
The Gruffalo's Child
* 7:45 pm
Art Themen
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Paintings of Mystery and Imagination

10th Dec at Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
The Gruffalo's Child
* 2:00 pm
The Gruffalo's Child
* 7:30 pm
Two Victorian Tales
* 8:00 pm
Brothatalk
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
* 10:00 am
Creating Meaning in Film

On a bright but crisp day Maidenhead took on top of the league Chichester, buoyed by the return of captain Nick Roberts, keeper Spencer Bird, and the arrival of new signing Matt McConkey.

But the mood was soon punctured as Chichester hammered another nail in the coffin as Maidenhead's plunge down the the table continued.

The Berkshire team started brightly enough and enjoyed good spells of possession in the first ten minutes.

Chichester eventually broke the deadlock when the ball fell unkindly for sweeper Anthony Gaze, allowing the Chichester striker the chance to smartly slot the ball past the Maidenhead keeper.

After sustained pressure Chichester scored a further two goals from short corners, the decisions on the part of the umpires could only be described as dubious.

Chichester went on to score a further corner before the break, this time a deflection flummoxing the Maidenhead defence.

The second half saw the Maidenhead team start with more urgency and as result the midfield could involve the forward line to better effect.

Again luck appeared to conspire against Maidenhead when the Chichester forwards caught Maidenhead on the break, and added a fifth to their tally.

Keeper Spencer Bird made a sharp stick save before being hit in the throat from yet another successful short corner strike.

Bockett-Pugh, however, was on hand to take over the goal keeping duties.

Chichester added a seventh shortly before the end, calmly sliding the ball passed the fully stretched substitute keeper.

Maidenhead did create opportunities in the second half with good interlinking play between Roberts in midfield and striker Matt McConkey. Unfortunately the ball just would not cross the line.

Performances from Roberts, Matt McConkey and man of the match winner Neel Sood were also on the positive side.

Trysports Three Counties Division 2 Maidenhead 3 2 Windsor 2 0

Maidenhead ended their losing streak when they came out of their match on saturday with an excellent team win.

Maidenhead started off strongly against local oppositition Windsor and put the Windsor goal under costant pressure.

It wasnt long before a goal came from a move by Ali Holton clearing the ball out of defence to Claire Saxon and onto EG Bowler on the right wing.

Bowler dribbled the ball into the D when she slipped it behind her where man of the match Daisy Gardner was waiting and who showed great reverse skill when she swept the ball into the backboard.

The second half began with the Maidenhead defence of Cat Booker, Gill Godbold, Ali Holton and Olivia Cooke have no trouble in keeping Windsor at bay leaving Keeper Katie Hudson with nothing to do at all.

But play soon began to get a bit ragged. An injury meant a 10 minute break but Maidenhead regrouped and were unlucky not to score from runs in at the D from Claire Saxon, EG Bowler and Daisy Gardner and a series of short corners.

Eventually, from a short corner a strike from Bowler was deflected to Fran Roberts whose shot at goal was stopped on the line by a Windsor foot.

Gardner kept her cool and had no trouble slotting the ball home.

ic Berkshire ~ Maidenhead ~ Nov 25 2005

The search is on for volunteers with an interest in the countryside to join the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead flourishing Local Access Forum.

The forum – set up last year and one of a nationwide network stemming from the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 – already has a thriving membership including walkers, horse riders, cyclists, farmers and landowners.

In a bid to further broaden its range of interest and expertise, the Windsor and Maidenhead forum is now looking for people with interests in land management, health or the environment to join its current 20-strong membership.

The forum - which meets three times a year – gives advice and guidance to the Royal Borough about improvement of access to land in the area so that local people and visitors can gain maximum benefit from the surrounding countryside.

It also provides valuable direct links into the Windsor and Maidenhead community, acting as a communication and consultation channel on a wide variety of topics including rights of way and improving recreational access in rural areas.

Since its inaugural meeting in April 2003, the forum has contributed to the production of the borough's Public Rights of Way Improvement Plan – a ten-year strategy for the improvement of the Rights of Way network in the Windsor and Maidenhead borough due to be launched in June 2005. It has also been involved in:

establishing working groups to focus on the needs of specific rights of way users

input into the Milestones statement, the annual report and plan which includes new public rights of way policies and procedures

input into the Local Windsor and Maidenhead Development Framework

supporting the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England's proposal to introduce quiet lanes in the borough.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Simon Werner, lead member for the environment, said: "In its first year, the forum has played a major role in helping to develop our rights of way improvement plan – and supporting the council's commitment to the protection of green spaces and the highest quality of public access to the countryside.

"The forum is a statutory advisory body, and the council takes into account and respects the forum's views on issues relating to access to the countryside.

"The calibre of forum membership is already very high, with members drawn from the public, private and voluntary sectors, chosen to represent their interests rather than a specific organisation. But we would value input from people involved in land management and the environment to help represent a complete balance of interests."

Peter Thorn, chairman of the Local Windsor and Maidenhead Access Forum, said: "The forum provides a valuable opportunity to ensure that a wide range of opinion is available to the council in its deliberations on this extremely important aspect of community life."

The next meeting of the forum is on January 11 2005. For further information about the forum – or to request a membership application form – contact Andrew Fletcher, Windsor and Maidenhead public rights of way officer, on 01628 796549 or visit the website at www.rbwm.gov.uk/around/prow/local access forum.htm

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead ~ 22-Nov-2005

The Council this week hit back at suggestions that it is not doing enough to encourage town centre regeneration in Maidenhead.

And it called on critics of Maidenhead to enter into a more 'positive' dialogue in helping to bring about change.

Councillor Vicky Howes [Lib Dem: Cox Green], lead member for the town centre, said: "It's very easy to talk down Maidenhead and forget the tremendous progress that has already been achieved or the developments underway, particularly the massive Sainsbury's investment in the town and the successful new retail park at Stafferton Way.

"My concern is that by being negative about the isolated problem sites, we are in danger of damaging Maidenhead's reputation as a family-friendly town and not only driving away existing shoppers, but also anyone who might be thinking of coming here to live, work or shop in future."

She added: "The council has set a positive example to others with our refurbishment of the Town Hall and we are encouraging our courterparts in the private sector to follow the lead."

Her comments follow a series of recent meetings hosted by Maidenhead and District Chamber of Commerce, in which members outlined their proposals for town-centre redevelopment, including a supersize Tesco on the site of the football ground.

Some members of the Chamber claimed that Maidenhead was caught in a 'spiral of economic decline.

Others blamed the council for 'blocking attempts' to breathe new life into it.

But in a statement released this week, the royal borough said the 'ongoing revitalisation' of Maidenhead town centre depended on people working together with the council.

Cllr Howes said: "The sites causing widespread concern are all in private ownership and I have asked council officers to investigate the feasibility of taking enforcement action against owners of particularly problematic sites."

She also appealed to the Maidenhead Chamber to work with the council by encouraging its members who deal in property to 'help promote lettings in currently empty premises.'

In the meantime, Cllr Howes said the council was continuing to hold talks with more than a dozen private Maidenhead landowners.

They include the proprietors of the derelict cinema in Bridge Avenue, in a bid to help drive forward further improvements.

icBerkshire ~ Maidenhead ~ Nov 18 2005

All eyes will be on Specsavers on Tuesday (November 22) when the Maidenhead store collects the latest shopping Oscar – the Maidenhead Town Partnership's Service Excellence Award.

The award – the result of nominations from customers who feel they have had exceptional service from local shops or organisations – will be presented to Specsavers manager Lynne Stokes by Cllr Vicky Howes, lead member for Maidenhead town centre.

Martin Fletcher, town manager, said: "The nomination for Specsavers came from a satisfied customer who lives in Bracknell, proving that people from a wider area come to Maidenhead to do their shopping."

Lynne Stokes said she and her team were delighted by the customer's comment that Specsavers had "an outstanding staff".

She said: "We take pride in the service we provide for our customers and to have it recognised in this way is a great boost for all of us on the Maidenhead Specsavers team."

This is the third time that Specsavers has collected the Service Excellence Award – the previous successes were in 2003 and 2004.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead ~ 18-Nov-2005

Tue 29 Nov at Maidenhead

Two Households
Friendly Bombs
Studio
7:30 pm
Christmas Cheer
Maidenhead Floral Art Society
Courtyard Theatre
7:30 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Wed 30 Nov at Maidenhead

Hot Pursuit
Plested and Brown
Courtyard Theatre
7:30 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Junior Norden Lights
4:15 pm - 5:15 pm
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm

Thu 1 Dec at Maidenhead

Nicola Baxter (cello) & Rebecca Woolcock (piano)
Maidenhead Music Society
Courtyard Theatre
7:30 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Junior Norden Lights
5:15 pm - 6:15 pm
Norden Lights Academy
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Fri 2 Dec at Maidenhead

Soul Sikher
Sody Singh Kahlon
Courtyard Theatre
8:00 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Sat 3 Dec at Maidenhead

Mike Sanchez
Courtyard Theatre
8:00 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Creating Meaning in Film
Meeting Room 1
10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Sun 4 Dec at Maidenhead


Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Norden Lights
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

It's curtain up for Maidenhead's new-look Desborough Suite and from next week local audiences will have the opportunity to enjoy the new performance season in the refreshed surroundings.

Maidenhead Operatic Society production of Gilbert and Sullivan's Princess Ida, opening on Tuesday November 22, starts the Desborough's busy bookings programme following its four-month closure for improvements and it also marks the start of a busy winter season of family entertainment. Panto time starts on Wednesday December 14 with Maidenhead Drama Guild's Snow White which runs until Sunday December 18. Before then there is the Thames Valley Chorus Charity Concert, in aid of the Thames Valley and Chiltern Air Ambulance Trust (TVAC), on December 3.

The Desborough design brief was agreed after extensive and on-going consultation with many of the performance and community groups who regularly use the venue and it was a key element in the overall refurbishment of the Maidenhead Town Hall. A number of meetings were held for users whose overall feedback was positive and in support of Maidenhead council's plans.

The improvements include:

* redecoration and replacement of carpets and curtains
* upgrade to the sound and lighting systems
* access from the Town Hall's new reception area
* modern kitchen facilities
* new wiring in the main hall
* improved emergency lighting.

Maidenhead Cllr Vicky Howes, lead member for the Town Hall project, said the reopening of the Desborough Suite was a proud day for Maidenhead people, who are strong and faithful supporters of the many talented performers treading the boards in quality productions throughout the year.

"It was very important for the council to actively seek the views of the users to make sure the Desborough plans would cater for their needs," Cllr Howes said. "I am delighted that, thanks to their involvement and enthusiasm, we have given the venue a new lease of life. From being rather tired and out of date it's now modern, well-equipped and accessible suite with facilities to cater for the needs of the widest possible range of community and performance groups.

"This is also good news for Maidenhead town centre. The Desborough is an important element in our determination to boost the town's family friendly reputation in the evenings as well as during the day. The Desborough Suite is right in the heart of Maidenhead and, with the continued support of our user groups, we are looking forward to a new and exciting future of performances that will attract even more people into the town centre."

Paul Seddon, chairman of Maidenhead Operatic Society said they were looking forward to performing Princess Ida next week.

He explained: "In 1962 this was the first show that we performed in the brand new Maidenhead Town Hall. The audience then enjoyed a show that's full of comedy and good humour coupled with some of Sullivan's most attractive music. It's fitting that, 43 years on, we should produce this show to welcome in the refurbished facilities at the Town Hall's Desborough Suite and we trust our audience next week will have a good time."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead ~ 17-Nov-2005

Matt Hann celebrates with City fans at Maidenhead

Winger Matt Hann further underlined his impressive form this season with a double strike on Saturday at Maidenhead as Saints clambered back to the top of the Conference South.

Hann took his tally to eight league goals for the season and he could have had more after being denied by some tremendous goalkeeping in both the Eastleigh and Yeading matches recently. City manager Colin Lippiatt praised the winger for his form. He said: "He was definitely my Man of the Match at Maidenhead. I'm not sure I can explain the difference from last season but all I can say is that he seems to come back much fresher, sharper, stronger and more focussed. He has been outstanding."

The thumping 4-0 win for Saints meant Maidenhead had conceded 12 goals in their last two games, with City scoring nine, illustrating the difference between top and bottom. Lippiatt felt the win that took St Albans two points clear at the top could have been even more convincing. He said: "Maybe the scoreline flattered them a bit. With respect, as they are struggling, I don't think Paul Bastock was really troubled and their goalkeeper made some excellent saves. They started slightly better than us and had one difficult half chance before we scored. Once we went in front though, and at 3-0 at half time, it was game set and match. We then had to make sure we were focussed and kept a clean sheet."

The goal difference column has received a boost during the last two matches and goals have flowed, even with top scorer Lee Clarke on the bench. Lippiatt said: "If you take the last two games we have scored nine and conceded two. That is a big factor. Lee Clarke has gone through a bit of a stale period but in the last two games it has been important that the goals have been shared about."

St Albans City take on Farnborough Town in what should be an exciting clash at Clarence Park on Saturday. Left back Lee Flynn is available for the final match of his loan period and City skipper Scott Cousins is back from suspension. The City boss praised the contribution of Flynn. He said: "Lee has got better and better since he came. He just needed games, he is a very good player and has done well for us."

In a tactical adjustment, Sean Hankin played at right back at Maidenhead United instead of Anthony Allman who impressed against Yeading. Lippiatt explained his decision. He said: "Sean Hankin came in at right back because we wanted to make sure that first and foremost the back four as a unit were defenders. Hankin is aggressive, decisive in the air and he will defend."

Herts Advertiser Maidenhead ~ 17 November 2005

Council-owned land at the York Stream in Maidenhead town centre is to get a spruce up – and the Royal Borough is calling on other landowners along the high profile local waterway to follow suit.

The stream itself is the responsibility of the Environment Agency but the council is taking action during the current planting season to help enhance the appearance of the banks in parts of the town centre.

The decision has been taken to go ahead with the scheme while Maidenhead council awaits reaction from senior level at the Environment Agency about what could be achieved for the York Stream overall in the future.

Starting next week, the works will take in borough-owned sections of the York Stream corridor between High Street, Maidenhead and York Road, including the area next to the High Street, the bank between the stream and the footpath next to Lyondell House and the area beside the library and associated open space.

The scheme, which was tendered in January with a view to being done during the 2005 autumn planting season, will include:

* strimming to reduce weeds and encourage grass growth
* clearing overgrown vegetation and replanting the areas next to High Street (the new plants will be small at first and will take time to establish themselves)
* replanting a small area adjacent to York Road, Maidenhead
* re-planting south of York Road (next to the footpath) with lower-growing species to improve the view from York Road
* planting autumn-flowering bulbs in the grass open space next to the trees near the library.

Cllr Vicky Howes, lead member for Maidenhead town centre, said: "Finding a solution to the problems with the York Stream is a key element in helping to revitalise the town centre. We are pressing hard for the Environment Agency to get actively involved with the council and other interested organisations to find a workable way forward. I believe some constructive discussions are under way and I am waiting for the outcome."

"However, the council has ongoing responsibility for its own land and we can't just sit back and wait for the big decisions on the York Stream. That's why we are forging ahead with the scheme to spruce up the aspects of the York Stream we are responsible for. While the public won't see a dramatic immediate change, the year ahead will include careful maintenance and bring a gradual improvement as the plants establish themselves."

The remainder of the York Stream corridor is the responsibility of neighbouring landowners and lessees and the council has reminded them of the need to manage and maintain their land.

Maidenhead Cllr Howes added: "We are hoping the council action will inspire other landowners to get cracking and we are issuing a call to them to do their bit to help make the York Stream a more attractive part of the town centre."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, ~ 16-Nov-2005

Maidenhead Christmas Lights switch-on
Friday 18th November from 5pm (most shops open until 8pm)

9am-8pm - Continental Market in the High Street. Lots of food and gift ideas for Christmas. (The Market will also be in town on Thursday 17th and Saturday 19th November).

6.30pm - COUNTDOWN with Santa and Maidenhead's young VIP to the switch on of The Nicholsons Shopping Centre and High Street Christmas Lights at 7pm by the Boy with a Boat statue at the top of the High Street (next to the Methodist Church).

An amazing stage with sound and lights system will be the platform for this year's 'Christmas Musical Extravaganza'. Our live DJ will be introducing a series of local bands and choirs together with fun and games for all the family - the fun starts at 5.30pm with music from local choirs. Platform Soul, an amazing 11 piece soul band will be entertaining the crowd after the switch on at 7pm.

See Santa for free!
Every Saturday from 19th November, 11am-1pm & 2pm-4pm
Nicholsons Shopping Centre, Maidenhead
To add to the festive fun, Santa will be welcoming children to his Santa Station next to the Christmas Tree every Saturday to 17th December.

So take a well earned break from the Christmas shopping and bring the kids to come and whisper those all important wishes in Santa's ear and collect a free toy.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead,

Prince Charles is to be asked to help shape the future of Maidenhead.

The prince, who in the past has been controversially out-spoken on Britain's architecture, is to be asked for his views on the town.

Andrew Jenner, president of Maidenhead Chamber of Commerce has written a letter to the prince.

Mr Jenner said: "I have just written to the prince, asking him if he has got any ideas about the future of the town."

The move comes as organisations across Maidenhead participate in a debate how the town should move forward. The debate, really a consultation exercise organised by the Maidenhead Chamber of Commerce, looks at everything from shopping facilities to tackling eyesores such as York Stream.

Mr Jenner said: "We are after all holding a consultation exercise and we want to make it as wide as possible. We are going to ask everyone including Prince Charles. Maidenhead is part of the royal borough after all. Obviously we would value his opinions."

He added: "I am going to write to him. I will be highlighting some of the problems which Maidenhead faces.

"But it won't be all doom and gloom. We have a few problems, but the town has a lot going for it."

The Maidenhead Chamber of Commerce has already outlined its vision to transform the town, including a £6million redevelopment of the dried-up channel which runs through the town centre.

The consultation exercise organised by the chamber has clearly touched a nerve with residents, and some have expressed fears that the town could become the "next Slough."

Prince Charles takes a keen interest in architecture, young people, the environment and health and believes that young people should have access to both complementary medicine as well as orthodox.

He is no stranger to controversy, when he described the National Gallery as a "monstrous carbuncle" back in 1984, and warnings about the risks of nanotechnology.

ic Berkshire ~ Maidenhead ~ Nov 11 2005 By Paul Pickett

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 22 - 27 November 2005
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

Tue 22 Nov in Maidenhead

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Maidenhead Players
Courtyard Theatre
7:30 pm


Norden Exposure
5:30 pm - 6:45 pm
Norden Exposure Academy
6:45 pm - 8:15 pm

Wed 23 Nov in Maidenhead

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Maidenhead Players
Courtyard Theatre
7:30 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Junior Norden Lights
4:15 pm - 5:15 pm
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Reading Group
Meeting Room 1
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Thu 24 Nov in Maidenhead

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Maidenhead Players
Courtyard Theatre
7:30 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Junior Norden Lights
5:15 pm - 6:15 pm
Tabla class
6:00 pm - 6:30 pm
6:30 pm - 7:15 pm
7:15 pm - 8:00 pm
Norden Lights Academy
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Fri 25 Nov in Maidenhead

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Maidenhead Players
Courtyard Theatre
7:30 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Sat 26 Nov in Maidenhead

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Maidenhead Players
Courtyard Theatre
2:30 pm
(limited availability)
7:30 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Kathak: Advanced
9:30 am - 10:30 am
Kathak: Intermediate
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Creating Meaning in Film
Meeting Room 1
10:00 am - 12:30 pm
Kathak: Beginners
11:00 am - 11:30 am

Sun 27 Nov in Maidenhead

St John's Chamber Orchestra play Beethoven 2
Courtyard Theatre
7:30 pm

Paintings of Mystery and Imagination
Jennifer Maskell-Packer
The Gallery
10:00 am - 10:30 pm

Norden Lights
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Maidenhead were forced to field a depleted side with both captain and vice captain being injured and other regulars unable to play, so a 12-man squad stepped out to play old rivals West Witney.

The game began with Witney very much on top and dominating the play. Hard work was required from all Maidenhead defence and GK Lucy Stevenson was on fine form as always, making some excellent saves right from the beginning.

Captain Emma Townend looked very comfortable on the left hand side, feeding the ball through to speedy Chantal Frost who made some good runs up the line. Continual running as always from Kathy Cain gave Maidenhead some real chances but the score remained 0-0.

The first goal of the game came when a forward penetrated the maidenhead defence and took a shot at goal. Although saved, the clearance went straight to a Witney player and a messy goal line scramble gave the away side the lead.

Unable to get back from this Maidenhead conceived another goal, this time from a penalty corner, which was sadly deflected in by a maidenhead player. At half time the score remained 2-0.

The second half began with Maidenhead fighting for everything.

Fi Hinds and Bex Miall in the middle worked well together and created chances for forwards Cain and Debbie Keel to run onto. Maidenhead's hard work paid off when youngster Emily Wilkins made a blinding run to the base line and then into the circle and forcing a foul which resulted in a penalty corner.

Sam Archer stepped up to take the shot and with a clean push out and stop, she took the ball past the first defender and made a clean strike which no keeper could have saved. Spurred by this Maidenhead continued to play well, but no goals came.

A West Witney break away saw them drive the ball into the circle and a break down of communication saw the ball go over the line and Maids were 3-1 down.

The rest of the game remained uneventful and sadly Maidenhead conceived again. West Witney were not really better then us but they played well as a team and moved the ball confidently between players.

Maidenhead hopes to forget this weekend and now all focus is coming away with three points from Hampstead and Westminster on Saturday.

* MAIDENHEAD 2's saw another win slip away from their fingers as the Banbury keeper kept the score level in the clash with Banbury.

A lucky break saw Banbury go ahead after a player performed a few stick tackles to get the ball into the Maidenhead D and hit under keeper Wayna Gray.

But finally Maidnehead converted a goal through Fanny Hodge who smoothly fired the ball past the helpless Banbury keeper.

Team: Gray, Wadley, Edgerly, Young, Plumridge, Hodge, Tabone, Crouch, Hohenauer, Debsley, Bowler, Carrick

MatchFacts

SOUTH LEAGUE PREMIER DIVISION TWO MAIDENHEAD 1 WEST WITNEY 4

Maidenhead: Stevenson (GK), Eassom, Frost, Townend, Cain , Black, Hinds, Third, Miall. Archer, Keel Subs: Wilkins

Nov 11 2005 ~ ic Berkshire ~ Maidenhead

Re:charge was set up by the Bridge Trust Thames Valley and offers a safe place for youngsters, young parents and parents to be to meet up and learn.

Since it opened at 67 Queen Street, Maidenhead in November 2002 the cafe has gone from strength to strength. It runs a drop-in facility and staff talk to children who could become involved in truancy, addiction and anti-social behaviour and organises fun events.

But service manager Hilary Bone said they needed more space. “The other day we had 11 families in the small Queen Street cafe. Noise levels are high and we were trying to use upstairs and downstairs.” She said: “We want to move to a more central location in the town that has a more space so we can put on a more events and activities.”

The trust is looking at the possibility of leasing premises twice the size of the Queen Street cafe. A planning application has been submitted to the Royal Borough for change of use of the upper level of Kingsway House in King Street, Maidenhead so it could be made into a spacious youth cafe.

Maidenhead Advertiser ~ 11th November 2005

The ongoing revitalisation of Maidenhead town centre depends on positive people working together with the Royal Borough to bring about change.

That's the message from the council this week as it reveals it is involved in continuing high-level negotiations with more than a dozen different private sector property and landowners to help drive forward the further improvements to shopping, business and housing in the town. Detailed information cannot be revealed because the council does not own the properties and land concerned but the discussions involve the old cinema site on Bridge Avenue, which has recently changed ownership, and Cressett Towers on High Street where there has been a recent welcome letting.

Cllr Vicky Howes, lead member for Maidenhead town centre, is also calling on Maidenhead and District Chamber of Commerce to work with the council by encouraging its members, particularly local estate and property agents, to help promote lettings in currently empty premises.

Cllr Howes said she had pressed council officers to continue discussions with property and landowners and was confident that everything possible was being done to encourage them to move forward with plans for developing or upgrading their sites. She was also confident that there would be "good news soon" on a number of fronts.

"The council has set a positive example to others with our refurbishment of the Town Hall to make it a modern, attractive and welcoming place in the town centre for local residents and we are encouraging our counterparts in the private sector to follow the lead," she said. "The sites causing widespread concern are all in private ownership and I have asked council officers to investigate the feasibility of taking enforcement action against owners of particularly problematic sites.

"It's very easy to talk down Maidenhead and forget the tremendous progress that's already been achieved or the developments underway, particularly the massive Sainsbury's investment in the town and the successful new retail park at Stafferton Way, where initial feedback from the public is very positive.

"My concern is that that by being negative about the isolated problem sites we are in danger of damaging Maidenhead's reputation as a family friendly shopping town and not only driving away existing shoppers but also anyone else who might be thinking of coming here to live, work or shop in the future."

With the refurbished areas of the Town Hall now open to the public and the garden re-landscaped for everyone to use, the council is looking forward to the re-opening of the Desborough Suite later this month after a two-month improvement programme. The first performance booked is Maidenhead Operatic Society's production of Princess Aida, which opens on Tuesday November 22.

Cllr Howes said: "The Desborough is a major centre for public use in the town centre and, with the improvements being made by the council to make it better and more accessible, we will be promoting it as an important venue for events, both during the day and in the evening.

"What Maidenhead needs is more of this positive approach to promoting the tremendous benefits of out town so that everyone who lives and works here will benefit and be proud of what we have to offer."
Notes:
Overall, Maidenhead has 307 retail units with a current vacancy rate of just over 6% - this is well below the national average of 11% and better than neighbouring towns such as Reading and Slough.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead ~ 09-Nov-2005