Maidenhead & Windsor

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 7 September - 13 September 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

7th September in Maidenhead

* Film
* 3:00 pm
Before the Rains (12A)
* 7:30 pm
Before the Rains (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Inside Out

8th September in Maidenhead

No events planned

9th September in Maidenhead

* Film
* 8:00 pm
City of Men (Cidade dos Homens) (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Inside Out

10th September in Maidenhead

* Film
* 8:00 pm
City of Men (Cidade dos Homens) (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Inside Out

11th September in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Summer Concert Series: 4, Harmoniemusik
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Inside Out

12th September in Maidenhead

* Film
* 10:30 am
Mamma Mia! (PG)
* 3:00 pm
Mamma Mia! (PG)
* 8:00 pm
Mamma Mia! (PG)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Inside Out

13th September in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance Advanced
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance Intermediate
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance Beginners
* Film
* 11:00 am
Mamma Mia! (PG)
* 3:00 pm
Mamma Mia! (PG)
* 8:00 pm
Mamma Mia! (PG)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Inside Out

Work starts this week on a new pavilion and replacement clubhouse costing nearly £1million at Braywick sports ground in Maidenhead.

The new Maidenhead building – which is expected to be completed by the end of November – will replace the old pavilion which had to be pulled down earlier this year after reaching the end of its useful life.

The new building – funded by Section 106 developer contributions and a contribution from Maidenhead Athletic Club – will provide:

· a new clubhouse for Maidenhead Athletic Club
· storage facilities for Maidenhead Archery Club
· eight new team changing rooms for the teams using the grass and artificial pitches at the sports ground, officials' changing facilities and groundsman's store
· two public toilets.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, who will help to cut the first sod to launch the work, said: "This is the start of a very exciting new project for Maidenhead Athletic Club and for all those who use the Braywick sports ground.

"Many borough residents use the sportsground all year round, as do visiting teams and clubs – and the new building will provide some welcome new facilities of which we can be justifiably proud.

"The old pavilion had reached the end of its useful life and I am delighted to be cutting the first sod to mark a new era for the athletic club and sport in the borough."

Dave Dando, chairman of Maidenhead Athletic Club, said: "The club is delighted and considerably relieved to see work commence on the new pavilion after so many years of negotiation and false dawns.

"The existing clubhouse was built in 1964 with a life expectancy of 25 years, and despite its ongoing resilience the chances of it surviving another winter are not great!

"Club membership is at an all-time high, with an ever-growing waiting list for places. The need for enhanced facilities of all types is thus essential to address this demand for athletics participation in the town.

"As chairman of Maidenhead AC I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those officials and members, past and present, who have contributed so much over the years to make this achievement possible."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Maidenhead Arts Cafe,
Methodist Church Hall,
High Street,
Maidenhead,
Berkshire,
SL6 1EF.
Friday 6th March 2009

The Paul Poulton Project tour across the UK and the US with their own brand of rock, funk and blues. One thing you can be sure of is that there is always a neat groove for the lyrics to rest on. The band is known for its high quality of musicianship. On drums is the amazing Joe Blanks, famous for his recent appearances on BBC TV's "Let Me Entertain You". Out of 6,200 contestants Joe made it all the way to the final just by playing the drums. Paul Poulton writes the songs, some of which have received TV and radio success across the world. Someone said of his guitar playing, "He makes the thing talk". Hot bass player, Ross Lander makes up the three piece.

The cafe provides high quality entertainment in relaxed, informal surroundings. Events take place in the recently refurbished hall of the Methodist Church at the top of the High Street in Maidenhead. Drinks (Tea, Coffee, Cappuccino, J2O's, Coke etc) are available from our bar, along with various light snacks throughout the evening.

Entrance is by ticket (£5:00 available on the door, or in advance). Contact us on info@artscafe.org for details or tickets.

Maidenhead Arts Cafe

Windsor and Maidenhead Five-year-olds starting in Year 1 at school next week can look forward to a week of lunchtime treats, thanks to a great giveaway from the Royal Borough and its school meals contractor Harrison Catering Services.

The unique scheme will prove that there is such a thing as a free lunch when more than 1,300 new Year 1 pupils in 42 borough schools tuck in to healthy midday meals – at no charge.

The council and Harrison's have joined forces to introduce children to the nutritious menus available throughout the year in their school dining rooms.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "What a great way to give children a warm welcome to their new schools and help develop their appetites for the fresh, healthy meals that will sustain them through the day.

"I hope parents of all our Year 1 pupils will allow their children to take advantage of this exciting offer because we believe that when the children have tasted the food for themselves and discovered just how delicious it is, they will want to carry on having school meals in the future."

Letters have been sent to parents of new Year 1s to let them know about the free lunches, encouraging them to use this opportunity to introduce their children to nutritious and delicious lunches right from their first day at school.

Gareth Harrison, director group business for Harrison Catering Services, said: "School meals have moved on significantly since we took over the contract three years ago. We serve tasty, fresh food every day, using recipes that children recognise and enjoy. Freshly prepared, hot meals now cost only £2 per day, which represents fantastic value for money and a healthy way to keep concentration levels high throughout the school afternoon."

The offer starts from Thursday September 4 and will run for up to seven days, ensuring that all Windsor and Maidenhead Year 1 pupils benefit from at least a week of free lunches, regardless of which day their school opens after the summer holidays.

During the week of free lunches the menu will be typical of the range of food available every week throughout the school year, meeting the government's new strict nutritional guidelines and offering fresh, healthy food, prepared and presented in ways that appeal to young children.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Cannon Lane, Maidenhead, will be closed to traffic over the next two weekends (August 30 and 31 and September 6 and 7).

The closures are the result of unforeseen utility complications experienced by contractors carrying out drainage and utility works in the area under and near the railway bridge.

Stephen Brown, head of Windsor and Maidenhead highways and engineering, said it was anticipated that the closure over the bank holiday weekend would have been sufficient but when contractors dug under the road surface they found more complex utility issues than expected.

He said: "We had allowed for additional weekend closures in case there were delays or bad weather. We are disappointed that the work could not be completed over the bank holiday but we believe that, given good weather, it should be done over the next two weekends and that further closures will not be needed."

Diversion signs will be prominently displayed.

The work at Cannon Lane is co-ordinating a gas main diversion relating to the access road for the new Holyport Manor Special School and council drainage work under the railway bridge to help prevent flooding in the future.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough residents have another opportunity to meet their local elected representatives at a town centre surgery session in Windsor on Saturday 6 September 2008.

The doors will be open between 10am and 12 noon in the council's mobile facility outside the Post Office in Peascod Street, Windsor.

The open session - no appointment necessary - means people can drop in and meet the members to discuss local issues, air their views or ask for help and advice. Arrangements can be made for confidential interviews during the morning, if requested.

The next Windsor surgery will be held in December 2008.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's revamped community safety website www.rbwmsafety4all.org.uk is being launched on Monday September 1.

Following feedback from residents and partners the site has been completely redesigned to allow residents to more easily access crime reduction advice, contact the borough's community wardens; find out information on drugs and alcohol and much more.

The new look site features sections on reporting crime and anti-social behaviour, the navigation has been reviewed to make information easier to find and the site has been refreshed in terms of 'look and feel.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead community safety, said: "It is vital that we give residents and visitors easier access to crime reduction advice and how to get in touch with the community safety team. The old site, which was been running since 2004, regularly attracted over 30,000 hits per month so I am very confident that the new site will have even more visitors.

"Many residents have computers at home and we hope that they will find the new-style website more useful. I would encourage people to use the website and see what's happening in the borough to tackle crime and disorder, and importantly who's who and how to get in touch."

Supt Tim DeMeyer, local police area commander, said: "This website much is better. There is plenty of practical advice, the links are simple to use and it's easy to find up-to-date information on the organisations that work to keep the Royal Borough safe."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has welcomed the news that a date has been set for the judicial review of the consultation process used by the Berkshire Fire Authority to close Windsor Fire Station at night.

The review was requested by the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough as part of its campaign to save 24-hour cover for the town and the High Court hearing will go ahead on January 29 2009.

The council was granted leave to seek a judicial review in April after the fire authority decided last year to axe night-time cover and provide a service from Slough between 8pm and 8am.

The council's application to the High Court sought a review on the grounds that:

· the fire authority's consultation process was flawed
· the fire authority based its decision on historical statistics and without proper assessment of future risks and demands in respect of continuing population increases in both Windsor and Slough.

Cllr David Burbage, leader of the Windsor and Maidenhead council, said this week: "We are pleased that a date for a judicial review has been set.

"We took the decision in October to resort to legal action to overturn the fire authority's decision and keep up the fight to safeguard the level of fire cover our residents and visitors to Windsor need and deserve.

"It's been a long wait but we are determined to take to the High Court this important case, on behalf of the people of Windsor."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough will be flying the flag for the London 2012 Olympics at a special celebration party to be held in Windsor this Bank Holiday weekend.

As London Mayor Boris Johnson receives the Olympic flag on Sunday to mark the end of the Bejing Games, the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough and other local authorities around the country will take part in simultaneous flag-raising celebrations to mark London's forthcoming role as hosts of the 2012 Games.

At exactly 3.45pm – and the end of the closing ceremony in Bejing – Deputy Mayor Cllr Catherine Bursnall will raise a specially-commissioned handover flag – bearing the Olympic logo on a Union Jack background – in Alexandra Gardens, alongside the Windsor Wheel.

Organisers of the celebration event – Windsor and Eton Town Partnership, the Royal Borough, Windsor Contemporary Arts Fair and PWR (organisers of the Windsor Wheel) – are inviting families to get in the party spirit by bringing picnics and taking part in special flag-making workshops between 2 and 4pm. All those taking part will qualify for a free ride on the Royal Windsor Wheel that day.

Cllr Colin Rayner, chairman of the Windsor and Eton partnership, said this week: "Our sportsmen and women are doing very well in the Olympics and I believe that Royal Borough residents are delighted that Great Britain is doing so well in the medal stakes.

"Sunday's flag-raising event will be a great way for us here in the Royal Borough to celebrate both the successes of these Games and the prospect of more fantastic sporting events in London and Dorney Lake in 2012.

"And bank holiday weekend is traditionally a time of events like the Littlewick Show, festivals and carnivals such as Notting Hill, as well as many major sporting events – so what better time to celebrate our own forthcoming role as hosts at the next Olympics.

"I hope that as many people as possible will come down to Alexandra Gardens to help celebrate what will be a unique ceremony linking every part of the UK. Let's hope the sun will shine!"

The handover flag will remain in Alexandra Gardens until Sunday evening and will then fly above the Town Hall and then the Guildhall until September 30.

For further information contact Windsor and Eton town manager Paul Roach on 01753 743921.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough residents who want to vote in next year's European parliamentary and possible general election are being given an important reminder to make sure their names are on the electoral register – or they won't be able to back the party or person of their choice on election day.

More than 60,000 Windsor and Maidenhead annual register of electors forms are about to be distributed to homes across the borough and this year the council is including sms texting along with the internet and freephone to make it easier than ever to respond.

The forms not only give people the opportunity to make sure their registration details are correct but also to request postal voting application forms and to opt out of the version of the electoral register available to commercial organisations for marketing purposes.

When Windsor and Maidenhead householders receive the registration form they should:

· check the information on the form is correct
· make any corrections needed using the guidance notes enclosed then
· either respond electronically or
· use the postage paid envelope to reply no later than Friday October 31(after that date a different form will be required).

Correct information can be confirmed by logging on to www.electorregistration.co.uk/rbwm, or by using freephone 0800 025 0900 or SMS text back to 07797 898 710 by using the security codes provided on the registration form.

Residents are reminded that the form is for the Windsor and Maidenhead property and should not be used for any other address other than that pre-printed on it.

Andrew Scott, democratic and civic services manager, said: "Although a reminder will be sent to all those who do not respond in early October, please do not wait till then. Reply as soon as possible.

"Most people don't realise that the completion of the form is a legal requirement and they could be prosecuted and fined up to £1000 if they fail to complete and return the form. Names will removed from the electoral register if the council does not receive a response from the property for two years. People will not be able to vote if their name is not on the register. Also, your credit rating may be affected if your name is not on the electoral register."

Further information is available from the electoral registration office on 01628 796306 or visit the council's website at www.rbwm.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 31 August - 1 September 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

31st August in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
Priceless (Hors de Prix) (12A)
* 7:30 pm
Priceless (Hors de Prix) (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Inside Out

1st September in Maidenhead

No events planned

2nd September in Maidenhead

* Film
* 8:00 pm
Female Agents (Les Femmes de l’Ombre) (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Inside Out

3rd September in Maidenhead

* Film
* 8:00 pm
Female Agents (Les Femmes de l’Ombre) (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Inside Out

4th September in Maidenhead

* Film
* 8:00 pm
A Complete History of my Sexual Failures (18)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Inside Out

5th September in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Danny Bhoy - By the way
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Inside Out

6th September in Maidenhead

* Film
* 3:00 pm
Before the Rains (12A)
* 8:00 pm
Before the Rains (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Inside Out

Thames Valley Police has teamed up with the National Pubwatch Scheme and the Proof of Age Standards Scheme (PASS) in an initiative to help Windsor and Maidenhead bar and off-licence staff to spot fake ID and to prevent underage sales of alcohol.

In a bid to improve the confidence and knowledge of anyone in Windsor and Maidenhead who may have to ask for ID when selling alcohol, the organisations have produced handy training cards bearing the PASS hologram and a helpful checklist of the five things to look for on a genuine proof of age card.

Each licensed premises within Windsor and Maidenhead Local Police Area (LPA) has been provided with a stock of PASS training cards. These credit card-sized plastic cards are for use by any members of staff at the premises.

Robert Humphreys, Chairman of PASS, said: “The need to be sure that customers are of age has never been greater, which has created problems for both retailers, when selling, and for young people who are trying to buy age-restricted goods.

“PASS is the UK's national guarantee scheme for proof-of-age cards. The scheme provides a common standard, an easily recognisable identity and a robust accreditation process to help protect retailers and their employees who need to be sure which cards are genuine and which are fake.

“The training cards remind staff to check for a PASS hologram; the photograph of the cardholder; the date of birth and whether the card has been tampered with and that they are satisfied the person standing in front of them is the cardholder.”

Steve Baker, Chairman of the National Pubwatch Scheme, said: “There is a lot of pressure on those working within licensed premises to be sure they don’t serve someone who is not old enough to buy alcohol – indeed people can receive hefty fines for doing so and licensees risk losing their licence. This scheme will encourage more checks on the age of any customers and help those in the trade to protect their livelihood.”

Debie Pearmain, licensing officer for Windsor and Maidenhead LPA, said: “Everyone stands to benefit from licensed premises where staff know exactly what they are looking for on an ID card and are confident in challenging people they believe are underage. Reducing underage drinking improves the health and safety of our young people and our means neighbourhoods are less likely to suffer from alcohol-related anti-social behaviour.

“Anything which can help prevent those who are not entitled to buy alcohol from doing so is to be welcomed and I’m grateful to the work of the National Pubwatch Scheme for brokering the deal which enabled us to provide our licensees with this extra tool in the fight against the sale of drink to under 18s.”

Thames Valley Police ~ Windsor and Maidenhead

The finishing touches are being put to a new document that will help steer the rejuvenation of Maidenhead town centre over the next 20 years.

Commissioned by PRoM and the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough, the Vision for Maidenhead Town Centre has been brought together by planning consultants DTZ, in conjunction with architects and urban designers BDP with input from a wide range of local organisations who took part in a stakeholder workshop in June.

Bob Dulson, PRoM chairman, said the vision and action plan document would be published in September and would mark the start of an ambitious drive to energise the co-ordinated development of the town.

He said: "Maidenhead has waited a long time for this demonstration of commitment to its future. Thanks to cross-party support in the council and the active participation of community groups, we are set to have a sound basis for planning for the future."

Cllr David Burbage, council leader and PRoM vice-chairman, said: "The regeneration of Maidenhead town centre is a council priority and this new document will be a significant step forward."

Cllr Simon Werner, leader of the Liberal Democrat group on the council and a member of PRoM, said: "Those of us who live in and love Maidenhead are really excited about this next step in regenerating Maidenhead – a vision and action plan that can be embraced by everyone for the good of the town."

The vision and action plan will lead to a detailed master plan which will guide all future development in the town centre and feed into the borough's overarching Local Development Framework.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Work has now started on the access road for the new Holyport Manor Special School at Cox Green, Maidenhead, and drivers using Cannon Lane over the next few weekends should be aware that there will be both temporary traffic signals and a short road closure.

The temporary traffic signals on either side of Cannon Lane Bridge will be on the weekend of August 15, 16 and 17 to allow for the first phase of work to divert a major gas pipeline.

The second phase is scheduled for the bank holiday weekend of August 23, 24 and 25 when there will need to be a road closure. Work should be completed by the end of the bank holiday but it is weather dependent so arrangements have been made to use the temporary signals again on the weekend of August 30 and 31, if necessary.

Over the holiday weekend the Windsor and Maidenhead council will also be taking the timely opportunity to carry out drainage works to resolve the long-standing flooding problem underneath the bridge.

This means that, depending on the weather, there should be no need for any further road closures in the future. The road should re-open at midnight on Monday August 25.

Diversion routes will be well signposted on both the north and south approaches to the bridge.

Highfield Lane Bridge resurfacing

As part of the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's roads maintenance programme, the approaches to Highfield Lane Bridge are scheduled to be resurfaced later this month. This will mean a short closure of the bridge on Wednesday August 20, starting in the early evening and finishing during the night. Work should be completed for the following day (Thursday August 21).

The closure has been carefully planned to avoid the same dates as the Bank Holiday weekend closure at Cannon Lane, which will be part of the diversion route.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 29 August - 30 August 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

29th August in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 6:45 pm
BBC Radio 4: Any Questions?

30th August in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
Priceless (Hors de Prix) (12A)
* 8:00 pm
Priceless (Hors de Prix) (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Inside Out

Kidwells Park will be flying its credentials with pride this summer – the Maidenhead park has been awarded a prestigious Green Flag.

Kidwells – which premiered the hugely successful Maidenhead at the Movies in July – is the first Royal Borough park to achieve the national standard for quality parks and green spaces, and one of only 742 countrywide to receive it this year.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture, said: "This is an exciting achievement for the Royal Borough. We have many attractive and popular parks and open spaces but it is an added boost to receive national recognition that we are meeting our goals of providing quality outdoor venues for residents and visitors."

The coveted award is presented annually for high standards in a range of areas including overall park management, safety, cleanliness and maintenance, sustainability, conservation and heritage, promotion of healthy living and community involvement.

The Green Flag judges described Kidwells as 'a delightful little park near the centre of town and with a very pleasant atmosphere and good mix of formal and informal facilities catering for different user groups'. They added: "The management plan indicates a very positive approach to the management of the site."

Next year, along with a repeat application for Kidwells, the council is planning to enter Home Park in Windsor and Maidenhead's Braywick Park, Desborough Park and Oaken Grove.

The Green Flag Award scheme, launched in 1996, is managed by the Civic Trust on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government and the Green Flag Advisory Board which comprises founders of the scheme, sponsors, winners and judges.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is giving local residents the opportunity to have their say on the future development of a key part of Maidenhead town centre.

The Maidenhead 'triangle' of Broadway, King Street and Queen Street – proposed for redevelopment by ING Real Estate – represents one of the most significant opportunities for revitalising the town centre in many years. Now a detailed draft planning brief for the site is out for a six-week public consultation and the council is keen to hear what local people think.

The brief – called a supplementary planning document and prepared by the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough in association with the Partnership for the Rejuvenation of Maidenhead (PRoM) – makes it clear that any development should provide:

* an improved range and quality of shopping
* better access for visitors coming from the station
* attractive public spaces that improve the town centre environment
* a greater mix of uses, such as restaurants, cafés, flats and offices to extend town centre use into the evenings
* town centre car parking.

Cllr Alison Knight, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead planning, said: "The triangle site is a crucial part of the town and we must be very clear about how it should be developed. We have a great opportunity to regenerate this area with new shops, businesses and town centre housing, as well as aiming for major improvements to the links from Maidenhead station.

"We are delighted that ING has expressed such a positive interest in taking forward a scheme with such potential for the town but the planning brief is a generic document that would apply to any developer and we need to make sure that it covers everything we want to see for such a key site.

"Now that the brief is out for consultation we want as many people as possible to give us their views."

The consultation is open until Friday September 26. A full version of the draft planning brief and associated documents are now available at www.rbwm.gov.uk

An exhibition, staffed by Windsor and Maidenhead council planning policy officers, will be staged on:

* Thursday September 4 at the Town Hall, St Ives Road (10am – 5pm)
* Saturday September 6 in the Nicholsons Shopping Centre (10am – 2pm).

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

A 23-year-old man appeared at Reading Crown Court on Thursday 7 August charged with manslaughter following the death of a man in Maidenhead last year.

Mitchell Kirk, of Nursery Road, Taplow, pleaded not guilty. A trial was set for 16 March 2009 and he remains on conditional bail.

The charge relates to the death of Michael Gifkins, of Stompits Road, Holyport, who died in hospital on Tuesday 31 July 2007 following an incident in Maidenhead on Friday 13 July 2007.

Thames Valley Police ~ Maidenhead

More double yellow lines could soon be disappearing in Windsor as the Royal Borough continues to create additional parking spaces for local residents.

Consultation is now underway with people living in Keppel Street/Helena Road and Oxford Road to get their views on a proposal to introduce one-way traffic in their streets. This would mean that double yellow lines on one side could be replaced with a single yellow line and open up extra residents' parking for the peak evening and weekend periods.

Three options are on the table for residents' comments in each of the streets – two covering the direction of one-way traffic and a third retaining two-way traffic but looking for other ways of creating more parking spaces.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and environment, said the council's detailed review of options on a street by street basis was resulting in creative ways of boosting parking for residents.

He said: "We are literally exploring every avenue. Residents are sensible enough to know that we can't fit a quart into a pint pot and Windsor simply does not have room to accommodate the considerable demand. However, since national government has now made this council enforce parking we are being innovative and bold in our approach to the problem. Since the beginning of this year we have freed up over 200 spaces already – and the work continues.

"My message to residents is: If you have yellow lines in your street and think there is not a good reason for them being there, contact the council and we will add them to the list for investigation for removal."

Cllr Rayner said the Windsor and Maidenhead council's draft parking strategy for the town would soon be going out for public consultation and it was important to get everyone's input about how the council could make Windsor better for residents, businesses and visitors.

He added: "In the meantime, we want people in Keppel Street, Helena Road and Oxford Road to come forward with their views about the one-way traffic proposal, so that we can decide whether these are worthy of taking forward and then we will consider the wider implications.

"We are also asking residents who have parking permits to use resident-only parking bays at all times. We have found residents with permits parking on double yellow lines at night when in the next road there are some residents' bays not being used. We must work together to help resolve Windsor's parking problems."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

It's time for action on climate change – that's the message to young people in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough as International Youth Day 2008 approaches on Tuesday August 12.

To mark the event – Youth and Climate Change: Time for Action! – 13 to 19-year-olds are invited to join a film and discussion on Friday August 15 in the Council Chamber, Town Hall, Maidenhead.

After watching Al Gore's New Thinking on the Climate Crisis, teenagers can join in a debate about the issues raised, led by countryside ranger Jason Mills and with input from Maidenhead Friends of the Earth and Transition Town Maidenhead.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for children's services, said: "Scientific studies suggest that climate change has already begun to devastate communities and deepen the effects of poverty and hunger, and this situation could potentially complicate the challenges our young people face.

"This event will give them the chance to discuss and raise awareness about the causes and consequences of climate change, and the possible responses. Their role is critical to bringing about the necessary changes now and in the future."

The event has been organised by the Windsor and Maidenhead council's community and youth service team in partnership with the learning for sustainability action group as part of the Learning for Sustainability programme to raise awareness of climate change among young people and encourage a positive response to the challenge.

In addition, it will flag up the council's young people and learning for sustainability website (www.rbwm.gov.uk/ecolfs) as a chatroom and focus for positive action, and offer an insight into teenagers' perspectives on climate change which can be fed into the development of the council's Climate Change Strategy and other key strategies under development.

A Learning for Sustainability action group stand is on display in the Town Hall reception throughout August.

The film and discussion event runs from 1.30 to 3pm on Friday August 15 and a buffet lunch is included.

For further information call Melanie Moodley on 01628 796755 or email melanie.moodley@rbwm.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Sponsored Walk with a Difference Sunday 28th September 2008 - Virginia Water Lake, Windsor Great Park

Join in a sponsored walk around Virginia Water Lake on Sunday 28 September 2008. Enjoy a day out with fresh air, wonderful scenery and good company and help raise money for a local charity that supports visually impaired people in Berkshire.

Our sponsored walk with a Difference will take you around beautiful Virginia Water Lake in Windsor Great Park.

As well as completing as many 4 mile circuits of the lake as you want to, you can try your hand at simple everyday tasks while wearing a blindfold or Simispecs, glasses that simulate various forms of visual impairment, giving you sense of what it would be like to experience sight loss. There is also a shorter 2 mile walk for those with limited mobility.

Registration fee £5 per adult, over 65s £2, children under 16 free ( but must be accompanied by a responsible adult ). This payment will help to cover the cost of BCBS administering the event.

For more information call 0118 987 2803 or email info@bcbs.org.uk

Overall SATs results for 11-year-olds in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough are looking good – despite the uncertainty surrounding a substantial minority of individual papers.

National concern about the quality and reliability of the marking of the Key Stage 2 tests, held in May, extend to the borough – more than 100 papers have been returned by primary schools to the Qualifications and Curriculum Authority for re-marking.

However the figures released yesterday (Tuesday) flag up the continued success being achieved in Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough schools:

· In English, 85% of pupils achieved level 4 or higher, placing the borough joint 12th in England
· 91% of pupils achieved level four or higher in science, again placing the borough 12th in the country
· In maths, 81% at level four or higher puts the borough at joint 25th countrywide
· Adding the English, maths and science scores together, the aggregate score of 257 out of 300 means a joint 17th countrywide
· The measure of those gaining level four or higher for English and maths combined is 77%, joint 15th in the country.

While comparisons with last year's results are not easy – this year's marking did not include 'borderlining' (reviewing all those who were on the cusps of levels three, four and five) – the results indicate that the borough has improved its performance. English is up from 83% last year, maths and science remain the same at 81% and 91% respectively, and the combined measure of English and maths is up from 76%.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead education, said: "Despite the national concerns, these are great results and demonstrate the hard work and commitment of both pupils and teachers in our schools. Everyone involved should be justifiably proud of these achievements.

"We must also acknowledge the continued support of both governors and parents in helping to promote the council's aim of providing all our young people with the opportunity to achieve their very best. This is a real team effort – and everyone involved is to be congratulated."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Desborough Park will be a hive of activity when the Mayor, Cllr Dorothy Kemp, arrives to officially open the Maidenhead park's refurbished children's play area on Tuesday August 5.

The Mayor will carry out the official ribbon cutting at 11am, watched by lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead leisure and culture Cllr Jesse Grey, officers and invited guests.

At the same time, the 1319 summer holiday activities programme for Windsor and Maidenhead lteenagers will be in action in the multi-use play area and the local residents' kiosk will be open for business.

Work on the new play area for three- to 12-year-olds started towards the end of June. Tarmac paths and safety surfacing were replaced, the fence repainted and existing seats and bins refurbished, and the old play equipment replaced by new kit comprising:

· a 4.3m-high climbing frame with metal poles, ropes and climbing walls, perch platform and firefighter's pole
· a 'speed gyro' roundabout that allows children to vary the speed by how close to the edge they sit – and how brave they feel!
· two cradle seat swings for toddlers and one pod swing for all ages
· a 'quatro springer' which allows up to four children to push with their hands and feet and rock as energetically as they like
· a 'biibox' multiplay unit for balancing, climbing and sliding
· a gyro spiral – a roundabout/seesaw combination for two that gently rotates and rocks
· an 'aerospeed' cable runway.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Grey said: "This is a great new area where children of all ages can come to enjoy themselves, get exercise and develop physical skills.

"While providing a fun venue for youngsters, we also managed to achieve economies of scale by combining the Desborough Park work with other park improvements across the borough."

The £72,000 refurbishment is part of a borough-wide park improvement programme funded by Section 106 developer contributions. Desborough Park was selected because the existing equipment was reaching the end of its useful life and the ground surface uneven.

Other attractions at the park on the day, and throughout the summer holidays, include the 1319 programme and the kiosk.

The 1319 programme is running at parks around the borough. For further details visit www.rbwm.gov.uk/web/13-19_index.htm or text or call the 1319 information hotline on 07876 356768.

The kiosk is run on a voluntary basis by Larchfield resident Sally West to raise funds for a community centre – an initiative supported by the Mayor who, with Sally, is a member of the Larchfield Community Group.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

What's the difference between the insects and flowers to be found in an ordinary park and those living in long grass and old woodland?

Visitors on a wildlife wander around Ockwells Park in Cox Green will discover the answer when the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's senior countryside ranger Trevor Smith leads a stroll around the park on Sunday August 10 from 2 to 3.30pm.

As well as 7 Oak Wood, which was planted last year, the group will visit the established wooded area and the open grassland to see what wildlife can be found.

There is no charge and no booking required – simply turn up on the day. Participants should meet beside the pavilion in the car park off Ockwells Road.

The walk may not be suitable for pushchairs and children must be accompanied by adults. Dogs must be kept on leads.

For further information call 01628 777440.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Take extra care when enjoying a drink in the sunshine – that's the seasonal safer summer drinking advice from the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's drug and alcohol action team as temperatures soar.

Windsor and Maidenhead Officers warn that alcohol can cause dehydration and the effects of dehydration are worse in the heat of the sun. Heavy drinking in the sun can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke, which is a serious medical condition.

Whether you're drinking alcohol at home or abroad, remember these simple tips to stay safe:

* If you're thirsty, drink lots of cold water so you don't end up trying to quench your thirst with alcohol
* Keep hydrated by alternating alcoholic drinks with soft ones
* Keep track of what you're drinking and know your limits
* Avoid drinking alcohol during the hottest part of the day
* Stay in the shade as much as possible
* If you're drinking spirits, make sure you use lots of mixers and be aware that bars abroad often serve larger measures than British pubs
* Don't do any sports or exercise if you've been drinking.

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult services with responsibility for the drug and alcohol action team, said: "Summer is a time when we like to be outside and hopefully enjoy the sunshine and it is always nice to be with our friends and family.

"The summer can also be a time when perhaps we drink more than we would normally, especially if we are eating or sitting outside, and may have more than we realise.

"We all have a duty to be responsible, both in the amount we drink and our behaviour, and by following the team's advice we can all hopefully avoid any serious problems."

Dr Philip Brooks, public health consultant, Berkshire East Primary Care Trust, said: "We want people to enjoy the summer and to have a drink with friends. But please remember that too much alcohol will cause serious short and long term health problems. So our message is to keep within the limits and watch out for friends who might be drinking too much."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's Community Safety Partnership launches its first three-year partnership plan (2008-2011) to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour on Monday August 4.

Five key objectives are at the heart of the plan, which represents a partnership of the Windsor and Maidenhead council, the police, the primary care trust, fire service, fire authority and police authority:

· tackling all drug misuse and related crime, in particular acquisitive crimes such as theft from vehicles and burglary in a dwelling
· tackling all alcohol misuse and related crime and incidents in particular criminal damage, violent crime and accidental fires by using a wide approach that also seeks to prevent misuse of alcohol
· promoting safety by reducing arson, accidental dwelling fires, hoax calls and road traffic accidents
· restoring confidence in communities by communicating success, tackling low-level crime by appropriate intervention, tackling anti-social behaviour and improving feedback to communities
· promoting racial harmony by working with communities to promote community cohesion and contribute to the prevention of violent extremism.

Cllr Jesse Grey, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead community safety, said: "This latest plan re-affirms the council's commitment to reducing crime and anti-social behaviour and with our partners we will do all we can to ensure we achieve this.

"The plan is revised annually with ambitious action plans. However I am confident that we will rise to this ongoing challenge and, by doing so, reduce crime and disorder and improve our residents' quality of life."

Ian Trenholm. chief executive of the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough and chairman of the community safety partnership, said: "This is my first community safety plan with the Royal Borough and I am delighted to come on board at its inception.

"I know the Royal Borough has a record of effective partnership working and the new partnership plan will build on this strong foundation. By continued co-operation we can make significant impacts on crime levels and reduce residents' fear of crime.

"I look forward to ongoing close joint working with our partners to achieve its aims. We are all committed to ensuring that the Royal Borough is an even safer place for everyone."

Acting Superintendent Jim Templer, local police area commander, said: "Partnership working is essential in tackling the types of issues which affect the communities of Windsor and Maidenhead.

"This new strategy will continue to help us build on the good work that is already being achieved, and sets out clear objectives that will enable us to make the Royal Borough an even safer place for those who live in and visit the area."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The end is in sight for Maidenhead's old "eyesore" cinema in Bridge Avenue following the Royal Borough's successful negotiations with the landowner to speed up demolition work.

After several months of talks, demolition is now scheduled to be completed before the end of the year.

Cllr Derek Wilson, chairman of Maidenhead development control panel, said this week:
"The old cinema site has been a real eyesore for a long time – and a great many people have worked hard to bring about a solution which will benefit the town centre.

"Following an approved motion proposed by Cllr Simon Dudley in April to potentially serve a notice requiring the owner to demolish the cinema site, we have been working with the landowner to encourage them to demolish the building voluntarily. I am delighted that now we have a schedule of work which will see the building demolished before the end of the year."

The long-awaited progress on the site follows the panel's decision in April to reject an application from landowners CBRE SPUK 11 for an office building with underground parking while approving the demolition of the old building.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Wilson explained: "We have always been conscious of the importance of this site for the rejuvenation of the town centre and we are committed to ensuring that any development we approve will be absolutely appropriate for the needs of the town. That is why we turned down the original application."

The work is currently out to tender with returns expected during August for the landowner to make a decision in early September.

The project will also include securing the site along the unfenced stretch of Bridge Avenue but will not include the demolition of the substation within the building or the removal of the basement car park.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 10 August - 15 August 2008
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

10th August in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
Jules et Jim (PG)
* 7:30 pm
Jules et Jim (PG)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Home Is Where The Art Is

11th August in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week

12th August in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
The Edge of Love (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week
* 2:00 pm
Home Is Where The Art Is

13th August in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
The Edge of Love (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week
* 2:00 pm
Home Is Where The Art Is

14th August in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
The Edge of Love (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week
* 2:00 pm
Home Is Where The Art Is

15th August in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Summer Dance Week
* 2:00 pm
Home Is Where The Art Is

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough motorists caught driving without a seat belt have a new choice to make – pay a fine or attend an awareness workshop.

The first workshop in the borough was held on Monday (July 28) at the Town Hall in Maidenhead with 39 participants attending, following roadside checks last week.

The checks took place at locations in Windsor and Maidenhead on Tuesday July 22 and Wednesday July 23, for four hours each day, as part of a borough-wide seat belt initiative delivered in partnership with Thames Valley Police.

Over the eight hours, police issued 127 motorists with fixed penalty notices carrying a £30 fine for not wearing a seat belt. However, they were given the option of cancelling the fine if they attended the interactive workshop, run by driver training company Drivetech. Once participants completed the session their fine was revoked.

The seat belt awareness scheme, which is already operating in other parts of the country, is similar to that for speeding offences and is aimed at explaining to offending motorists the dangers of driving without a seat belt. It is hoped this will lead to improved attitudes and behaviour with a view to eliminating road deaths and serious injuries.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, transport and environment, said: "This course is an ideal opportunity to hit home the message that buckling up could save lives.

"Failing to wear a seat belt seems to be an increasing problem across the borough and has been a contributing factor in a number of recent fatal road crashes.

"We hope the information drivers received will leave a lasting impact and that they will share the information with others."

Windsor and Maidenhead Participants said they found the workshop a positive experience, helping them to understand the law regarding seat belts. Following the success of this event, a further enforcement campaign is planned for August.

Cllr Rayner added: "We will continue to work closely with the police at roadside checks and look at other education and publicity initiatives to address the problem."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead