Maidenhead & Windsor

Customers can now borrow, return and renew library items using the borough's new quick and easy self-service machines being launched at Windsor Library on Friday 6 November.

The Mayor, Cllr Jesse Grey, will officially launch the self-service machines at 10am. Staff will be on hand throughout the day to show people how to use the machines.

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult and community services, said: "Once again the Royal Borough's library service is at the forefront of technology.

"The new machines will greatly reduce waiting times, making it easier and quicker for customers and freeing up library staff to help customers get more from the library. In addition, the small space required by the machines means there will be more space for books and browsing."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's community safety partnership is supporting the Home Office national campaign Not in My Neighbourhood Week which runs from Monday 2 November to Friday 6 November by taking its crime fighting activities straight to the streets.

The Windsor and Maidenhead partnership is using the week to raise awareness about what is being done to tackle crime in the borough and highlight the work of the partnership on a daily basis to keep communities safe from crime.

Throughout the week community wardens, police and housing associations will be out and about in the borough, hosting information stands with crime reduction advice, providing mobile housing association offices in the community, carrying out visibility patrols by the police and community wardens and carrying out clean-up days.

Cllr Colin Rayner, cabinet member with responsibility for Windsor and Maidenhead community safety, said: "It is important that the council and its partners support these national initiatives. They present really good opportunities to raise awareness of how we and residents can work together to ensure our community is a safer one.

"The week is not a one off. We are working together throughout the year to tackle the issues that matter to residents and to ensure that incidents of crime and anti-social behaviour go down.

"Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated and we will use the powers available to us to stamp it out. We are working very hard with Thames Valley Police to make sure they adopt a zero tolerance policy towards crime and anti-social behaviour in the borough. We want the Royal Borough to be a safe place to live, work rest and play.

"I would urge anyone living in or visiting the borough to visit one of the events to learn more about the work we are doing. They will also be able to find out about some simple but effective means to avoid becoming a victim of crime."

Tim De Meyer, local police area commander for Windsor and Maidenhead, said: "We have a much better chance of reducing crime if we work together to keep young people out of trouble, look after the vulnerable and keep property safe. This week demonstrates how we go about it and I would urge people to get involved."

Peter Hatch, director of operations at Maidenhead and District Housing Association, said: "These activities will help to create greater awareness about how the partnership works to tackle crime and anti-social behaviour. We hope they will inspire more residents to get involved in making the community safer for everyone."

Timetable of events

Monday 2 November Launch of community safety booklet Town Hall 12.45pm
Monday 2 November Static stand in town hall reception (plus plasma screen display Town Hall 11am-3pm
Tuesday 3 November Maidenhead and District Housing Association mobile office Larchfield Primary School 6-7pm
Tuesday 3 November Clean-up The Meadows, Eton 10am - 12noon
Wednesday 4 November Community safety stand Sainsbury's Wootton Way, Maidenhead 3.30 - 5pm
Thursday 5 November Community clean-up New Road, Datchet 10am - 12noon
Friday 6 November Community safety stand Tesco Dedworth 3.30 - 5pm

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is armed and ready to face the winter chill with the start of its annual winter maintenance programme this week (Friday October 30) - with a bumper stock of salt to treat the borough's roads when severe weather is predicted.

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's maintenance contractors, Balfour Beatty Infrastructure Services, have almost doubled their regular salt stocks from 350 to 550 tons in the wake of several severe cold snaps last winter - and are currently on 24-hour standby until the end of March 2010.

Salting the Windsor and Maidenhead borough's roads is carried out on a priority basis:

* primary routes which make up more than one-third of the area's roads - covering 145 miles (232km) of the borough's roads with the heaviest traffic - are regularly salted when weather forecasts indicate that road conditions are likely to deteriorate
* secondary routes - seven per cent of the network covering 31 miles (41 km) -are salted during prolonged adverse weather conditions.These routes include some bus routes, roads outside schools, hospitals and some minor roads
* town centre footways in Maidenhead, Windsor, Ascot, Cookham, Datchet, Eton, Old Windsor, Sunningdale and Sunninghill are also salted during prolonged adverse weather conditions.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways, said this week: "The safety of our residents and visitors - both motorists and pedestrians - is of paramount importance as they negotiate the borough's roads, particularly during the cold days and dark nights of the winter months ahead.

"Our gritters coped admirably with the several cold snaps we experienced last winter, but we wanted to be absolutely certain that we are even better prepared this year so have ordered in nearly twice as much salt as previously.

"I would also like to remind residents to make sure their cars are ready for winter driving conditions too. If you have to scrape off your windscreen the roads will be covered in ice. Please drive with caution."

(see the RAC website at www.rac.co.uk and the AA website at www.theaa.com for tips on preparing for winter motoring).

The annual gritting programme is monitored by the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough highways and engineering team, with duty managers on 24-hour call using information from the London Weather Centre and their computerised road sensor system to make decisions on when to send out the gritter lorries. The aim is to complete the salting before any roads become icy. Spreading the salt usually takes about four hours from the time a decision is taken.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

All 26 speed camera sites in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough will be retained, additional mobile camera sites will be set up where necessary and there will be a new focus on creating 20mph zones at schools and speed reduction on rural roads.

That's the message following a meeting of the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Borough's cabinet (Thursday 22 October) when members looked at ways of continuing to reduce the number of injuries and deaths on local roads. Their decisions follows a thorough review of speed cameras and speed limits across the borough.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead Borough highways and streetcare, said: "Our priority is to make our roads as safe as possible for all users - drivers, cyclists and pedestrians.

"While speed cameras provoke highly charged reactions both for and against, we believe that they are an important part of our overall approach to road safety.

"The council has a wide range of techniques to help reduce accidents and, used judiciously, cameras are an effective way of making drivers think about their speed. A detailed review of each fixed camera site has been carried out and shows that over the past 10 years, cameras in the Royal Borough have resulted in a 44% reduction in recorded injury collision."

Cllr Rayner said that while not all sites had the same level of success, overall cameras had a positive effect in improving road safety and responding to community concerns about speeding.

The review of camera sites was carried out by the Thames Valley Safer Roads Partnership*, which manages, operates and maintains both fixed and mobile speed cameras on behalf of its member local authorities.

As well as the 26 fixed cameras in the borough, there are 11 sites where mobile cameras are used to help reduce speeding and cabinet members have approved further use of mobile cameras in places where local people are worried about speed.

Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Cllr Rayner said: "The partnership has a new flexibility about where mobile cameras can be used and we have been very successful in securing new sites in response to residents' concerns. This has been welcomed by local people and we will continue to take a positive view about the use of mobile cameras in places where we believe they will make an effective contribution to cutting speed and increasing road safety."

Alongside the speed camera review the council has also looked at speed limits across the borough to make sure they meet the needs of local people, particularly on rural roads. Comments were invited from schools, town and parish councils, the police, neighbourhood action groups and local councillors.

As a result, the Windsor and Maidenhead Borough council has drawn up a three-year work schedule, subject to the availability of funds. One of the main themes emerging from the consultation was the introduction of 20mph zones outside schools.

Cllr Phill Bicknell, lead member for public protection who presented the report to cabinet, said: "The consultation gave us a comprehensive picture of local people's views on the current speed limits. Concerns about speeding outside schools came through very clearly and we must put children's safety first by making schools a priority in the work schedule."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

In light of the disruption to postal services, the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is extending the deadline for receipt of secondary school admission applications.

Instead of Saturday 24 October, the Windsor and Maidenhead closing dates will be:

* posted applications by 4.45 p.m. on Friday 30 October

* online applications by midnight on Wednesday 28 October 2009.

The good news is that most parents have already submitted their forms but those still to do so at this stage are advised to use one of the following options:

• fill in the admission form online
• hand the form in directly to the council at the Town Hall
• or if using Royal Mail, get proof of posting before the deadline.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "I am really pleased that most parents in the Royal Borough have already submitted their applications but concerned for those who haven't in case they get caught up in the postal strike and don't reach us on time.

"There are, however, quick and convenient alternative ways of sending in the forms and I appeal to parents to use one of them whenever possible."

The Royal Borough deals with more than 1,900 secondary school admission applications every year. Applicants will be notified on 1 March 2010 about their allocated school place.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Following hot on the heels of last years highly successful production, Dick Whittington, the Maidenhead Drama Guild this year will be producing another traditional family favourite in Cinderella.

Focussing as always on good old family entertainment with loads of audience participation a night at the Maidenhead Drama Guild pantomime is sure to brighten up the darkest winter evening and leave you with a smile on your face.

The traditional rags to riches story is given the full panto treatment with the ugly sisters Hollyhock and Pansy causing riot and doing everything they can to stop Cinders going to the ball and meeting Prince Charming.

Buttons tries to help but where is he going to find a new dress, a carriage, and several footman at this time of day. Only Cinderella's fairy godmother can help, but she’s up to her eyes keeping tabs on her young fairy assistant who can’t seem to get anything right.

And as for short, back and sides - the local decorators - who knows where the paint and wallpaper paste will be flung next.

The pantomime will be performed at the Desborough Suite, Maidenhead Town Hall, Wednesday 9th to Friday 11th December, curtain-up at 7:30pm. Saturday 12th 10:30am & 2:30pm, Sunday 13th 12:00pm & 4:00pm. Tickets £8 Adults, £6 Children.

Can you sing, dance, juggle or do you have Star quality? This is your chance to be seen by some of the UK’s top Casting and talent agents. Have the chance to appear on the stage at The Theatre Royal Windsor and win top Show biz prizes including appearing in a major TV or Film production as an extra.

People to Places is launching a search for local new talent; the final of Star Factor will be held on Sunday 21st March 2010 at The Theatre Royal, Windsor and will be judged by star of Strictly Come Dancing Ali Bastian, some of the Top London Agents, Andy Pryor CDG, the Dr Who Casting Director.

Cookham’s own Casting Director, Emma Style CDG (whose credits include films such as ‘Tea with Mussolini’, Sky TV’s ‘The Take’ and Terry Pratchett’s ‘Hogfather’) has agreed to judge the heats for Star Factor across the four main areas, Maidenhead, Datchet, Ascot and Windsor. The Heats will be held in October and November 2009, so register via the website soon.

Emma will be happy to audition any individual or group. Dates for the auditions will be announced shortly and all the registration details will be on the People to Places website www.people2places.org.uk. Joining Emma in judging the heats will be Suzanne Smith, CDG Casting Director, Andrew Tidmarch, Director Foundation Course, RADA, Julie Baines, Film Producer. Emma said “I am really looking forward to watching the local talent and hopefully finding some new stars. I think Star Factor will be a great opportunity for budding performers to be seen by some of the countries top Agents and Casting Directors and at the same time Star Factor will raise money for People to Places to continue to help the local community get out and about.”

Peter Haley, General Manager of People to Places, said “Star Factor is going to be a really great event and a fun way to raise money for the charity. People to Places will be coming of age in 2010 and I hope we will be able to raise enough money for a new mini bus and launch a star or two at the same time. People to Places really will be transporting People to Places!”

People to Places, 2nd Floor, Unit 4, SC House, Vanwall Road, Maidenhead, SL6 4UB

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 1 November- 7 November2009
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

1st November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
St John's Chamber Orchestra featuring Alexandra Wood
* Workshops and other events
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights (D)
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights (E)
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights (H)

2nd November in Maidenhead

No events planned

3rd November in Maidenhead

* Film
* 2:30 pm
Los Abrazos Rotos (Broken Embraces) (15)
* 8:00 pm
Los Abrazos Rotos (Broken Embraces) (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

4th November in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Gift and Keepsake Boxes Workshop
* 1:00 pm
Lunchtime Yoga II
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights (A)
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights (B)
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

5th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Marcus Brigstocke - God Collar
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Printing - Dry Point Etching
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights (C)
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights (F)

6th November in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
A Skull in Connemara
* Workshops and other events
* 9:15 am
Make Silver Jewellery: Beginners II
* 11:00 am
Messy Monkeys
* 11:30 am
Make Silver Jewellery: Experienced II
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights (G)
* 7:00 pm
Life Drawing Class

7th November in Maidenhead

* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance Advanced
* 10:00 am
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance Intermediate
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance Beginners

Residents who receive Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough adult social care services are being asked for their views on changes to their funding which will give them more choice and control over the services they receive.

Consultation starts next week (Monday 26 October) on the proposed Windsor and Maidenhead contributions policy to be introduced in February 2010 under the government's scheme of self-directed support and personal budgets.

This scheme means that all recipients of Windsor and Maidenhead community-based social care will be allocated a personal budget and can decide how to use that budget to best meet their care needs. This scheme has prompted a change to the contributions policy.

Under the new proposals:
• everyone who receives a personal budget will be financially assessed to determine if, and how much, they can contribute to the cost of their care
• the council will fund the difference for those who cannot afford the full cost - known as a council top-up.

Currently some Windsor and Maidenhead services are charged for while others are not. Under the proposed policy all individuals would be assessed to ensure future arrangements are fair for everyone.

The proposed changes will not affect certain groups of people - those in residential or nursing care, those receiving after-care services under Section 117 of the Mental Health Act 1983, and people with frequently-changing or urgent needs, including those receiving intermediate care services for a period of less than six weeks.

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult and community services said: "The new policy will be fairer and much easier for residents to understand, and will also put people much more in control of their own social care support.

"Adult care staff will explain what it means to individual service users to help them work out how to spend their own personal budget and plan how to use and manage it. Anybody needing help with planning or buying their care will have as much support from staff as they want or need, but the important thing is that they - not the council - decide what is right for them.

"In addition the money will be allocated in an open and transparent way so that users can be completely clear about how much money they will receive and how much they will need to contribute themselves.

"All in all, this is a very welcome way forward for some of our more vulnerable residents. It should help to make their experience of social care support much easier to understand."

The results of the consultation - which runs until Friday 18 December - will be used to draw up the final version of the new policy which will go to cabinet for approval in January.

From February 2010 everyone eligible and assessed for Windsor and Maidenhead social care will be allocated a personal budget and financially assessed under the new policy.

After June 2010 current users of services will be given a care review before being transferred to the new personal budget scheme which, in the Royal Borough, is called My Care, My Choice.

Copies of the consultation forms are being posted to all current users of services this week. All users who are learning disabled will receive easy-read versions and both versions are available at council offices, libraries and leisure centres as well as on the council's website at www.rbwm.gov.uk

For further information about the proposals contact Allan Brown, head of adult services, on 01628 683701.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough has reinforced its commitment to protecting the flood plain with a successful prosecution against a landowner who failed to comply with an enforcement notice requiring him to remove concrete hard-standing from his site.

Gurpartap Bhullar of 111-115 Horton Road, Datchet, pleaded not guilty at Bracknell Magistrates' Court on Wednesday October 14 to the charge of failing to comply with an enforcement notice under Section 179 (2) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

He was found guilty, fined £5,000 and ordered to pay the Windsor and Maidenhead council's full costs of £1,676.

The court heard how Mr Bhullar constructed a 600sq metre area of concrete hard-standing without consent at the rear of his builders' yard in Horton Road in 2006. The Windsor and Maidenhead council subsequently served an enforcement notice requiring him to break up and remove the hard-standing as it amounted to an unacceptable construction in the flood plain.

Following an appeal by Mr Bhullar, a public inquiry upheld the council's decision and in January 2008 ordered the concrete to be dismantled - giving Mr Bhullar an extended period of nine months to comply.

Earlier this year the Windsor and Maidenhead council began prosecution proceedings against the defendant for continued failure to carry out the work, resulting in his appearance at Bracknell Magistrates' Court last week.

Richard Melvin, principal Windsor and Maidenhead enforcement officer, said after the hearing: "This has been a long-drawn-out case which has had a very successful outcome for the council - and reflects our commitment to protecting the flood plain.

"By prosecuting landowners who wilfully ignore enforcement notices we are demonstrating our determination to clamp down on people who flout the law.

"In this case the construction of hard-standing at the site was totally inappropriate and detrimental in the flood plain. The owner must now remove the hard-standing or potentially face further prosecution."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough says it is reassured by the urgent steps being taken to secure the finances of Heatherwood and Wexham Park Hospitals Trust.

This follows Windsor and Maidenhead feedback from Monitor - the independent regulator of NHS Foundation Trusts - which expressed concerns about the way the trust was run.

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for adult and Windsor and Maidenhead community services, said: "We are concerned about the situation at these local hospitals, which serve so many of our borough residents.

"It is, however, reassuring to note that the Monitor report does not express any concerns about the quality of care offered but rather refers to strategic operational and financial management issues. The council looks forward to the implementation of the turnaround plan, now in place to get the trust back on an even keel.

"We are in close contact with the PCT (NHS Berkshire East) and with the trust to help ensure that these hospitals, valued by our residents, continue to provide a high standard of care for people in the Royal Borough."

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

With a potential postal strike looming for the end of this week, the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is urging parents to make sure they get their children's 2010 secondary school admission applications in by the closing date of Saturday 24 October.

The good news is that most Windsor and Maidenhead parents have already submitted their forms but for those planning to do so this week, the message is to use one of the following options:

• send forms back via the schools so they are delivered to the Windsor and Maidenhead Town Hall by the council's courier service
• fill in the admission form online
• hand the form in directly to the council at the Town Hall
• or if using Royal Mail, get proof of posting before the deadline.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead children's services, said: "I am really pleased that most parents in the Royal Borough have already submitted their applications but concerned for those who haven't in case they get caught up in the postal strike and don't reach us on time.

"There are, however, quick and convenient alternative ways of sending in the forms and I appeal to parents to use one of them whenever possible."

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough deals with more than 1,900 secondary school admission applications every year. Applicants will be notified on 1 March 2010 about their allocated school place.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Another bumper crop of budding young Windsor and Maidenhead sports and arts personalities will next week step up to receive Royal Borough bursary awards to help them develop their chosen activity.

A joint funding partnership between the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough and The Louis Baylis (Maidenhead Advertiser) Charitable Trust means that for the second year running more young people are benefiting from the annual round of bursary awards to help with travelling costs, coaching fees and equipment.

The scheme sees the Windsor and Maidenhead borough and the Louis Baylis Trust putting £6,000 into each of the sports and arts bursary "pots" - which will run until the 2012 Olympic Games.

This year's bursary contingent features 41 sports bursary recipients, 17 arts and seven sports coaches - in sports ranging from baseball, acrobatics and ice skating to kayaking and dragon boat racing and arts including photography, performing arts, ballet and ballroom dancing.

They will receive their coveted Windsor and Maidenhead bursaries at a special celebration evening to be held in the Desborough Suite, Town Hall, Maidenhead, on Tuesday 20 October from 7 - 9pm.

Recipients and their guests will be welcomed by Cllr Jesse Grey, Mayor of the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough, before hearing from guest speakers Zac Purchase, an international rower who was awarded the MBE in the New Year's Honours List, and comedian Tom Deacon who is currently presenting the BBC Switch programme 5:19 featuring comedy sketches, music and celebrity interviews.

The evening will also feature:
• awards for the borough's 13-19 scheme for fishing, snowboarding and go-karting, sponsored by '3', the Maidenhead-based telecoms company and the Michael Shanly Trust
• School Sport partnership awards to two teachers and a sports coach
• presentation of the Sports Lifetime Achievement award which will be announced on the evening
• a range of performances including dance and gymnastics
• a short presentation on the Cultural Olympiad.

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult and community services said: "I am delighted that the joint funding arrangement with the Louis Baylis Trust means that once again we can offer even more young people the benefit of a financial contribution to help them with their chosen activity.

"All these young people have worked extremely hard to develop those talents and should be very proud of their achievements. Hopefully these bursaries will help to ease the ongoing burden of travelling and equipment costs and enable them to continue to develop their skills and talents even further.

"I would also like to thank the sponsors who have contributed to the summer's very popular holiday activities programme for 13-19-year-olds. Without their valuable support the programme would not be possible."

For further information contact Helen Preedy, sports development officer, on 01753 778565.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 25 October - 31 October 2009
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

25th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 3:00 pm
How It Ended
* Film
* 7:30 pm
Mesrine: Public Enemy Number 1 (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Kaleidoscope Photography Group

26th October in Maidenhead

No events planned

27th October in Maidenhead

* Film
* 8:00 pm
The Time Traveler's Wife (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group

28th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
Beginning with Blobs
* 3:00 pm
Beginning with Blobs
* Film
* 8:00 pm
The Time Traveler's Wife (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group

29th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
Pinocchio
* 3:00 pm
Pinocchio
* Film
* 8:00 pm
The Time Traveler's Wife (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group

30th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 11:00 am
Pinocchio
* 3:00 pm
Pinocchio
* 8:00 pm
Al Pitcher Picture Show
* Film
* 8:00 pm
31 North, 62 East (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 11:00 am
Messy Monkeys
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group

31st October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Halloween Ceilidh
* 8:00 pm
Rob Tognoni
* Workshops and other events
* 9:30 am
Kathak Dance Advanced
* 10:00 am
Tightrope Writing
* 10:30 am
Kathak Dance Intermediate
* 11:30 am
Kathak Dance Beginners
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group

The state visit of the President of India to Windsor next week will mean changes to local travel arrangements both on the day of the visit itself (Tuesday 27 October) and for the rehearsal which will take place in real time on Friday 23 October.

Her Excellency Smt Pratibha Devisingh Patil and Dr Devisingh Ramsingh Shekhawat will be greeted by Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh at 12noon after which there will be a procession through the streets to Windsor Castle. The procession route will be: Datchet Road, Thames Street, High Street, Park Street, Long Walk, Cambridge Gate, Cambridge Drive and the Long Walk to Windsor Castle.

Businesses in Windsor town centre will be open as usual on both days and the council and Thames Valley Police will be working to minimise disruption to local residents and businesses.

Road closures
Town centre road closures will be in force in the town from 9.45am to 3pm on both Friday 23 October and Tuesday 27 October.

As well as the procession route, roads affected are: Castle Hill, Thames Avenue, Barry Avenue, River Street, Goswell Road, Farm Yard, B470 King Edward VII Avenue and B470 Windsor Road, Datchet.

Other roads affected by short-term closures at certain times of both days to allow for troop movements include Sheet Street, St Leonards Road, A308 Osborne Road and A308 Albert Road.

Parking will be suspended in all of the affected roads during the closures. Any vehicle remaining will be removed.

Diversions
Prominent diversion signs will be displayed on all approach roads and police will be on patrol to help drivers if needed.

Car parks
Most Royal Borough car parks will be open as usual, with the exception of River Street, Home Park and King Edward VII (Datchet Road).

Watching the parade
The route from Datchet Road to Windsor Castle provides excellent opportunities for members of the public to watch both the rehearsal and the state visit procession itself.

Although crowd control barriers will be placed along the route there will be frequent and accessible crossing points for pedestrians during the road closures. However, crossing points will be closed to enable troop movements and during the state visit procession. Barriers will be erected from 3am on both days and removed as soon as possible after the processions have passed.

Officers from Thames Valley Police will be on duty along the procession route on both days.

Viewing area for people who are disabled
There will be a special viewing area at the King George V Memorial statue at the bottom of Thames Street. This area is restricted to people with disabilities and their carers.

Full details of the state visit arrangements are available on the Royal Borough's website www.rbwm.gov.uk or on the Thames Valley Police website www.thamesvalley.police.uk

Further information is also available from the council's customer service centre on 01628 683868 or the Royal Windsor Visitor Information Centre on 01753 743900.

For police-related enquiries call 08458 50 55 05.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough is well prepared for swine flu as the number of cases nationally continues to rise as predicted.

The Windsor and Maidenhead council's contingency plans have been reviewed and developed over the summer months - following the work undertaken to manage the swine flu outbreak earlier in the year - and the aim is to ensure 'business as usual' if cases continue to increase.

Particular attention has been paid to maintaining front-line Windsor and Maidenhead services, especially for the borough's older and more vulnerable residents. All front-line and key staff are to be offered flu vaccinations over the next few weeks.

Ian Trenholm, Windsor and Maidenhead chief executive, said: "The council has comprehensive plans in place for coping if the virus continues to spread. Our top priority is to ensure that the essential services we provide to our local community will continue, even if staff become ill.

"We continue to work closely with our partner organisations and there is regular contact between the NHS and councils both locally and across the Thames Valley region. This joined-up working enables us to take sensible approaches to planning for an escalation of swine flu.

"We would continue to appeal to residents to wash hands regularly and follow the 'catch it, bin it, kill it' approach that worked well earlier in the year."

For up-to-date advice on swine flu visit www.hpa.org.uk or www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's drug and alcohol action team (DAAT) is supporting national Alcohol Awareness Week (Monday 19 - Friday 23 October) and is urging residents to 'rethink their drink'.

Cllr Simon Dudley, cabinet member with responsibility for the Windsor and Maidenhead borough's drug and alcohol action team (DAAT), said: "For most people having a drink is a positive experience, but too much alcohol can have serious repercussions for your health.

"During Alcohol Awareness Week we are not preaching at people to stop drinking - we are trying to raise awareness of safe drinking levels and want to highlight the risks of drinking too much."

The DAAT will have information stands at the following locations as part of the week:
Tuesday 20 October at Peascod Street, Windsor, 10am to 2pm
Wednesday 21 October at High Street, Maidenhead, 10am to 2pm

Visitors to the Windsor and Maidenhead stands will be given information on alcohol units and the strength of different drinks. The DAAT will provide drink diaries for anyone wanting to 'rethink their drink' and there will be a range of related literature on offer.

The Windsor and Maidenhead DAAT is also taking the opportunity to launch a new information card 'Do you booze with Charlie?' which highlights the dangers of combining alcohol and cocaine. Copies are being distributed via PubWatch and a range of other organisations. To request copies of any related literature including the drink diaries or 'Do you booze with Charlie?' call 01628 796362 or email daat@rbwm.gov.uk

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough library users now have access to millions of books across the country, thanks to the introduction of universal library membership.

Windsor and Maidenhead Borrowers can pop into any of 4,000 public libraries across England, Wales and Northern Ireland and by simply showing their existing Royal Borough library membership card or proof of address they can join or access the local library.

The change has come about after library authorities agreed to accept each other's membership cards as proof of identity for joining a public library. Scotland is not part of the agreement.

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult and community services, said: "This is good news for anyone who works in or visits another area. Picking up the latest page-turner is now even easier and more convenient."

At the very least library users will be able to borrow a book from a library outside their area. In addition, each library authority will decide for itself whether to permit the visitor to join as a full member.

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough will allow all visitors from other authorities to join as members in this way, allowing them to borrow library books and to log straight on to the internet in borough libraries. They will need to produce proof of address to extend this membership to include borrowing of DVDs, CDs, games and spoken word books.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Gloucester has officially opened the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough's innovative youth and community centre - Four Marlow Road in Maidenhead (Wednesday 7 October).

The Duchess was greeted by the Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Mrs Mary Bayliss, and was given a warm welcome to the borough by the Windsor and Maidenhead Mayor, Cllr Jesse Grey, before touring the building to meet representatives of the various organisations and groups using the new facilities.

Four Marlow Road is one of the Windsor and Maidenhead council's most ambitious community projects. It has retained all the qualities of the original Edwardian Grade II listed building while adding a linked extension to provide a modern centre with meeting rooms, two dance studios, internet café, games hall and youth club facilities.

Offices for community organisations house the Citizens Advice Bureau, No 22 Youth Counselling Service, Relate, the Shaw Trust and mental health support group rethink. The Workers' Education Association also uses the building twice a week.

The Windsor and Maidenhead Mayor thanked the Duchess for agreeing to carry out the official opening ceremony and added: "Her presence today is the icing on the cake. So much hard work and planning has gone into the creation of Four Marlow Road and I congratulate everyone involved for their part in giving Maidenhead a facility that benefits so many of our residents."

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for children's services, said: "Four Marlow Road is a wonderful example of the council working in partnership with the voluntary sector to provide a centre spanning so many different aspects of community activity.

"The centre reflects the importance of voluntary organisations to the wellbeing of the borough. It also highlights the council's commitment to giving our young people the facilities they need to help them enjoy being young but at the same time supporting their development into well-rounded, responsible adults.

"In planning Four Marlow Road we made very sure that we consulted the most important service users - young people themselves - so we know we are providing what they want."

The Windsor and Maidenhead council worked for many years to find a replacement for the popular but rundown Castle Hill Youth and Community Centre in High Town Road to provide town centre services for young people and the wider community.

The attractive Marlow Road Grade II listed building previously housed social services and was originally the local technical college.

After being introduced to Ian Trenholm, council chief executive, the Duchess began her tour of the building by meeting council officers and representatives of the architects and contractors.

She was shown around the Windsor and Maidenhead centre by manager James Brittain and met managers and staff of the community organisations working there, including: Fiona Paine, manager of Relate; Shula Tajima, manager of No 22 Youth Counselling Services; Jeanette Jennings, Marilyn Homer and Beryl Sellors, of the Workers' Education Association, and Etienne Botha, of the Shaw Trust.

In the youth area the Duchess met Robert Hathom, area youth worker, and 10 young people who use the centre regularly.

Members of the Elizabeth Fenton School of Dancing gave a short performance in the sports hall and then Kevin Mist, the council's head of leisure services, invited the Duchess to unveil a commemorative plaque.

The Duchess was presented with a posy by 16-year-old Johnnie Palmer-Smith and before leaving she signed the visitors' book in the centre's main reception area.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 18 October - 24 October 2009
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

18th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Laurie Holloway and his Trio: Jazz meets Classical
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights (D)
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights (E)
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights (H)

19th October in Maidenhead

No events planned

20th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Colder Than Here
* Film
* 8:00 pm
Morris: A Life With Bells On (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

21st October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Colder Than Here
* Film
* 8:00 pm
Morris: A Life With Bells On (12A)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Stitch a Landscape
* 1:00 pm
Lunchtime Yoga I
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights (A)
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights (B)
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy

22nd October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Celebrity Recital: Michala Petri
* 8:00 pm
Colder Than Here
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights (C)
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights (F)

23rd October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Colder Than Here
* 8:00 pm
Waterson: Carthy
* Workshops and other events
* 9:15 am
Make Silver Jewellery: Experienced I
* 9:15 am
Make Silver Jewellery: Beginners I
* 11:00 am
Messy Monkeys
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights (G)
* 7:00 pm
Life Drawing Class

24th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
Parallels
* 8:00 pm
Colder Than Here
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Kaleidoscope Photography Group

In a bid to help Windsor and Maidenhead residents cut unnecessary energy use, lower carbon dioxide emissions and save money, the Royal Borough is offering energy monitors for loan.

Energy monitors allow the user to see how much energy is being used at any one time and how much it is costing.

Now 40 monitors are available to borrow from any Windsor and Maidenhead borough library for up to three weeks - which should be plenty of time to understand a household's energy usage and whether it can be reduced.

The loan scheme is designed to help residents gain this vital information without having to invest in a meter which may not be needed after the first few weeks. The loan also includes an accompanying book packed with advice on green living.

Cllr Liam Maxwell, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead policy and planning, said: "This arms the householder with useful information on how much individual appliances cost to run and how much energy is wasted through leaving lights on or equipment running when not needed or on standby."

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead adult and community services, added: "Borrowing a monitor is as easy as visiting your local library. We hope residents will take full advantage of this new service - and hopefully discover where they can cut costs."

For further details visit any Royal Borough library or call 01628 683820.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Borough has stepped in to rescue an area of woodland next to a nature reserve from being put up for auction.

The Windsor and Maidenhead Borough borough's swift action means the land alongside Arthur Jacob Nature Reserve in Stanwell Road, Horton - which had attracted the interest of several potential buyers - can now be used to increase the size of the nature reserve and create an even more attractive walking area in the south of the borough.

When the 15-acre Poyle Poplars Woodland, owned by Thames Water, was advertised to be auctioned today (7 October), there were concerns from many in the local Windsor and Maidenhead Borough community that this valuable amenity might be lost.

The Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough Borough - which has a 20-year lease on a small part of the land, used as a car park - contacted Thames Water on 1 October asking to buy the land. The move was supported by Horton Parish Council, local residents, MP Adam Afriyie and adjacent landowners.

Thames Water readily agreed to the request and the borough is now in the process of buying the land.

Cllr Alison Knight, lead member for planning, development and property, said: "Thanks to the fast action of councillors and officers and the cooperation of Thames Water, we have been able to rescue this land for the borough. If we hadn't stepped in, the woodland's new owners could have closed the land to the local community."

Cllr Simon Dudley, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead Borough adult and community services, added: "This woodland area is a very welcome addition to the borough's collection of parks, open spaces and nature reserves.

"A 2006 survey identified a lack of natural and semi-natural public open space in the southern wards, including Horton and Wraysbury, so it is particularly good news that this imbalance can be redressed and that residents in this part of the borough can look forward to many pleasant strolls around this diverse natural area."

The council plans to incorporate the woodland and car park into the nature reserve by creating a circular walking route with signage, path improvements, fencing and woodland management. Sponsorship will be sought to help fund the work.

Arthur Jacob Nature Reserve, named after a former Windsor and Maidenhead Borough borough mayor, was officially opened in 1996, having been created from a series of derelict sewage sludge lagoons. Under Royal Borough care the reserve rapidly developed into a haven for wildlife and was designated a Local Nature Reserve in 1999.

The reserve runs alongside the Colne Brook and includes areas of reedbed, woodland and meadows as well as tree and shrub planting. The addition of this area of woodland will complement the reserve by offering a larger area and additional interest for visitors, allowing the creation of the circular route and contributing to local biodiversity by providing additional habitats for wildlife.

Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Local arrangements are in place for the state visit of the President of India, who will be welcomed to this country with a spectacular ceremony in Windsor on Tuesday 27 October.

Her Excellency Smt Pratibha Devisingh and Dr Devisingh Ramsingh Shekhawat will be greeted by Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh. This will be followed by a procession through the streets to Windsor Castle, expected to attract large numbers of spectators.

Businesses in Windsor town centre will be open as usual on both the day of the state visit itself and the rehearsal on Friday 23 October, and both the council and Thames Valley Police are working closely together to minimise disruption and provide as much information as possible to businesses and residents along the processional route.

Detailed information booklets will be distributed over the next week, setting out the state visit and rehearsal schedules. The information will also be available on the council's website www.rbwm.gov.uk

Produced by the Windsor and Maidenhead council and the police, the booklets provide an extensive range of information, including the processional route map, road closure times and parking arrangements.

For those coming into the town centre to watch the procession there is information about pedestrian access points, the park and walk facility at The Brocas, Eton (courtesy of Eton College) and facilities for people who are disabled.

Ian Hunt, who is co-ordinating Windsor and Maidenhead council arrangements for visit and rehearsal, said: "This is the seventh state visit to Windsor since 1998 and the council and police have built up a very effective working partnership over the years. Our aim is to manage these high profile occasions so that they can be enjoyed by everyone who wants to join in the colour and spectacle while ensuring that the town centre can function as normally as possible."

Inspector Mark Rivett, who is in charge of coordinating the planning of the event, said: "It is important that we get detailed information to the public so that residents and businesses can plan ahead. Alongside our partners we have carried out extensive planning to help ensure that the event passes smoothly with minimum interruption to local people."

The President and Dr Devisingh Ramsingh Shekhawat are scheduled to arrive in Windsor at 12 noon on Tuesday 27 October when there will be a welcoming ceremony, attended by the Mayor of the Royal Borough, Cllr Jesse Grey, and the council's chief executive Ian Trenholm.

Afterwards the royal party and their visitors will board horse-drawn carriages for the procession to Windsor Castle, accompanied by a Sovereign's Escort of the Household Cavalry

The procession route will be: Datchet Road, Thames Street, High Street, Park Street, Long Walk, Cambridge Gate and Cambridge Drive for the drive up the Long Walk to Windsor Castle.

More than 90 flagpoles are being installed along the route and will be decorated with the Union and Indian banners. Banners of the Royal Borough will be displayed on the flagpoles outside the Guildhall, where robed councillors will gather to watch the procession. The entire route will be lined with representatives from the Army.

Road closures:
Road closures will be in force in the town from 9.45am to 3pm on both Friday 23 October and Tuesday 27 October. However, the police and council staff will be working to ensure that the town is re-opened at the earliest possible opportunity.

Most Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough car parks will be open as usual, with the exception of River Street, Home Park and part of King Edward VII (Datchet Road), which can be accessed from the Datchet direction only.

Full details of the state visit arrangements are available on the Royal Borough's website www.rbwm.gov.uk or on the Thames Valley Police website www.thamesvalley.police.uk

Further information is also available from the council's customer service centre on 01628 683868 or the Royal Windsor Visitor Information Centre on 01753 743900.

For police-related enquiries call 08458 50 55 05.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Norden Farm Centre for the Arts, Maidenhead: 11 October - 17 October 2009
Altwood Road
Maidenhead
SL6 4PF
01628 788997

11th October in Maidenhead

* Film
* 3:00 pm
Before Midnight: A Portrait of India on Film 1899-1947 (PG)
* 7:30 pm
Before Midnight: A Portrait of India on Film 1899-1947 (PG)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 1:30 pm
Norden Lights (D)
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights (H)
* 4:00 pm
Norden Lights (E)

12th October in Maidenhead

No events planned

13th October in Maidenhead

* Film
* 3:00 pm
Fish Tank (15)
* 8:00 pm
Fish Tank (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 4:30 pm
Bollywood Dance
* 5:45 pm
Norden Exposure
* 7:00 pm
Norden Exposure Academy

14th October in Maidenhead

* Film
* 10:30 am
Fish Tank (15)
* 3:00 pm
Fish Tank (15)
* 8:00 pm
Fish Tank (15)
* Workshops and other events
* 10:30 am
Stitch a Landscape
* 1:00 pm
Lunchtime Yoga I
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 4:15 pm
Norden Lights (A)
* 5:30 pm
Norden Lights (B)
* 6:45 pm
Norden Lights Academy
* 7:00 pm
Book Club

15th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 7:30 pm
The Consort Piano Trio
* 7:30 pm
Inua Ellams' The 14th Tale
* Workshops and other events
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 5:00 pm
Norden Lights (C)
* 6:15 pm
Norden Lights (F)

16th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 8:00 pm
Jazz at the Farm: Tina May and the Pendulum Quartet
* Workshops and other events
* 9:15 am
Make Silver Jewellery: Beginners I
* 9:15 am
Make Silver Jewellery: Experienced I
* 11:00 am
Messy Monkeys
* 2:00 pm
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 4:30 pm
Norden Lights (G)
* 7:00 pm
Life Drawing Class

17th October in Maidenhead

* Performances
* 10:00 am
Precious Metal Clay Workshop
* 7:45 pm
Cabaret Night with Robyn North
* 8:00 pm
Milton's Paradise Jones!
* Workshops and other events
* 10:00 am
Tightrope Writing
* 10:00 am
Kaleidoscope Photography Group
* 10:30 am
Portrait Drawing Workshop

The first cohort of staff working in the Royal Windsor and Maidenhead Borough to complete new qualifications in early years and childcare will be recognised for their success at a special presentation next week.

A group of 20 Windsor and Maidenhead staff working in early years and childcare will step forward to receive their certificates at the presentation morning at Windsor Racecourse on Monday 5 October from 10am to 12noon.

The Windsor and Maidenhead recipients have qualified for either the Chartered Management Institute Diploma in management or Early Years Professional Status - both of which reflect the current development of the early years and childcare workforce to encourage more graduate level qualifications among leaders and managers.

The current up-skilling of the workforce is part of the government's ten-year strategy for childcare and is based on research highlighting the relationship between practitioner qualifications and positive outcomes for children.

Cllr Eileen Quick, lead member for children's services, said: "The government's strategy is all about giving pre-school children the best start in life, and encouraging higher qualifications among the leaders and managers in the workforce can only serve to achieve this.

"Research has shown that children make more progress when in the care of staff who have higher qualifications, so I am delighted that so many of our staff have taken the opportunity to develop their skills and understanding in this important role.

"Any measures we can take to improve the early years development of our young children has got to be worthwhile. I would like to congratulate all those who have worked so hard to achieve these qualifications and to wish good luck to those who are embarking on their training now."

The qualifications are provided through the University of Reading and Mercia Business School.

For further information about the awards contact Jo Elsey, workforce development officer, on 01628 796536.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead

Following the receipt of a £7m grant to repair and refurbish the Windsor and Eton relief road and Eton / Slough spur road, the Royal Borough has appointed Atkins as lead consultant.

Atkins will provide Windsor and Maidenhead design and works supervision for the project, which will involve essential repairs and aesthetic improvements, including lining the road with mature trees, to the borough's busiest road. The road runs from junction 6 of the M4 to the Clarence Road roundabout in Windsor.

The multinational engineering and design consultancy was selected following a Government Homes and Communities Agency tender selection process.

Cllr Colin Rayner, lead member for Windsor and Maidenhead highways and streetcare, said the council decided to appoint Atkins because they offered the best combination of price, experience, professional standards and ability to deliver within required timescales. A key priority throughout the work will be to minimise traffic delays, and penalties have been set in the contract should the project not be delivered on time, to standard or on budget.

He said: "We welcome Atkins as our consultants. This is the biggest highways project undertaken by the Royal Borough and we are looking forward to their working with us to provide a 21st century road for Windsor."

The revamp of the Windsor and Maidenhead relief road - which is the main route into the borough for visitors and business traffic and by far the busiest in the borough, carrying up to 22 million vehicles a year - is expected to start in late spring next year.

Essential maintenance work will include renovating and upgrading bridges, waterproofing, resurfacing and erecting safer barriers.

This will also be an opportunity to bring the road up to current standards with lighting, signage and landscaping being updated. One of the main aims of the scheme is to reduce noise levels for residents and motorists.

Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr Rayner added: "The Windsor and Eton Relief Road was built in the early 70s and is now in desperate need of repairs to ensure it remains safe and to meet today's more stringent safety standards. This project will mean a state-of-the-art road that will better meet the needs of local commuters and visitors - and smarten up the gateway to Windsor!"

The £7m project will be funded by the South East England Partnership Board / Department for Transport Regional Transport Fund following a successful bid by the council.

The project is scheduled to be completed by December 2011, well before the Queen's diamond jubilee in 2012 and the 2012 Olympics when the relief road will be a key transport link to Dorney Rowing Lake, site of the Olympic rowing events.

The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead