Cllr Karen Soons
karen.soons@suffolk.gov.uk
07864 601 887
February 2023 Parish Newsletter
Council’s net zero plans making progress
The council has been keen to lead from the front with its ambition to reduce its own emissions and energy costs, while inspiring and supporting others to do the same.
It is one of only a few local authorities in the country to publish a ‘Carbon Budget’. This looks in detail at its environmental impact, to identify actions and costs needed to reduce emissions.
“The council has made incredible progress in the last few years to reduce its carbon emissions, but we are very open about the fact we still have a long way to go and much work to do.”
“Since March 2019, when we declared a climate emergency, I have been adamant that achieving net zero by 2030 will be tough. But it’s a challenge that we simply must rise to, so that we can stand tall as an authority knowing that we’re doing the best we can to reduce our operating costs as an organisation and eliminate as many carbon emissions as possible.”
“The council is not immune to the rising energy costs confronting residents and businesses across the country and this work has an important role to play in making our buildings more efficient and cheaper to run. For example, we have reduced gas consumption in one of our properties, Constantine House, by 80% over a 12-month period.”
Calculating the council’s carbon emissions is a complex process. Papers released last month, ahead of a Council Scrutiny Committee meeting on 9 January, explain the work that the council has been doing in the last year, as it works towards net zero by 2030.
The council is reducing the emissions that it is directly responsible for, following a £12.8m ‘spend to save’ investment to decarbonise its buildings, making them more energy efficient and cheaper to run.
Changes it is making include moving its small vehicle fleet to fully electric by 2025, it has upgraded street lighting across the county, changed to a renewable electricity tariff, and is increasing the number of solar panels across its estate.
But one of the elements that will determine the council’s progress to net zero, is the ambition shown by the businesses in its supply chain. Although these are not carbon emissions directly produced by the council, its suppliers and contractors still affect the council’s target.
“We can’t control the carbon emissions produced by the businesses we work with, but we can choose who we work with. We seek out businesses who provide good value, offer social value, but also have their own net zero ambitions.”
“We understand that small and medium size businesses may need help on their journey, and we can help them through our Carbon Charter scheme. This supports businesses to deliver carbon reductions and recognises that many of them, like us, need to reduce their energy costs at this challenging time.”
“There is also support available from the Free Net Zero Business Advisor service for any Suffolk-based business. This is funded through the Suffolk Climate Emergency Plan, where we work with all Suffolk councils, coming together to help people across the county to play their part.”
The Carbon Budget will be presented at a Scrutiny Committee meeting on 9 January, and will then be discussed at the Full Council meeting on 9 February 2023.
More information on support available to businesses and residents can be found at www.greensuffolk.org
Working to reduce our energy consumption and costs
A column by Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Environment
One year ago, I announced that Suffolk County Council will begin presenting a carbon budget alongside our annual finance budget.
Our finance budget underpins everything we do - it outlines how much money there is to spend, where that money comes from and how we plan to spend it.
A carbon budget is equally as important, as it allows us to measure the council’s carbon emissions, monitor our environmental impact, and identify actions and costs needed to reduce emissions.
Papers released last month, ahead of yesterday’s Council Scrutiny Committee meeting, explain the work that the council has been doing in the last year, as it works towards net zero by 2030.
Data from the last couple of years has been interesting, with Covid playing a big part. With many staff working from home and not travelling as much, we saw a notable drop in our carbon emissions. Naturally, this has risen again slightly as staff have begun to come back into office, but levels are declining.
Over the last couple of years, we have reduced our carbon emissions by 15%, or 4,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent. That is really encouraging progress, but I’m very open about the fact we still have a long way to go and much work to do.
Since March 2019, when we declared a climate emergency, I have been adamant that achieving net zero by 2030 will be tough. But it’s a challenge that we simply must rise to, so that we can stand tall as an authority knowing that we’re doing the best we can to reduce our operating costs as an organisation and eliminate as many carbon emissions as possible.
The council is not immune to the rising energy costs that you are experiencing too. Our work to reduce emissions also has an important role to play in making our buildings more efficient and cheaper to run.
Some of the changes we are making, are really an extension of some of the things we have all been doing around our own homes to save energy. For example, monitoring temperatures and adjusting the level that heating is set to, switching off electrics that don’t need to be on all the time, not heating unoccupied rooms, and installing more efficient LED lighting.
We have closely monitored the gas consumption in one of our properties, Constantine House near Ipswich Town Football Club, and have managed to reduce it by 80% over a 12-month period. We can take learning from that project to apply to many of our other buildings, to save even more energy and money. However the challenge is that the 90 or so buildings that we own are all different!
There are many other technical things we are doing and looking at installing, such as de-stratification fans, thermal insulation improvements for buildings, remote energy metering, installing micro-louvres, digital twin computer modelling of hydraulic systems, hybrid boilers and heat pumps.
Again, this is the same approach many of us our taking in our own homes – investing in energy efficient changes now to save money in the long term. As a council, it’s particularly important that we continue evaluating and reviewing our systems and are aware of future technologies so that we can continue to invest in the right way to deliver savings and value for money to Suffolk’s residents.
Talking of investment, that brings me on to our plans for how we spend money in the new financial year. I’d like to thank all of you once more, who took part in our budget survey late last year – over 2,600 of you.
Adult and children’s care were at the heart of our budget setting last year, and are again this year. This is exactly what you told us in the public survey too, so we are all in agreement about investing more in these areas, and it meets one of our four ambitions for Suffolk - to look after people’s health and wellbeing.
This year, it’s a case of being prudent across all areas of the organisation. Even though we have created £15.5m of savings, our frontline services are protected and receiving more funding.
Alongside an increase in our funding from Government, and a history of excellent financial management at the council, I’m proud that we’ve been able to navigate our way through the extremely turbulent, economic waters caused by the Covid-19 pandemic and Vladimir Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine.
We will be able to ensure that the services which mean the most to people, are still provided.
Suffolk’s tress and hedgerows to receive boost
The authority will develop its work to manage and inspect trees and hedgerows on its estate, and on highways. It will have more resource to manage mature and declining trees.
In partnership with The Woodland Trust, the council has planted around 50,000 trees and hedges this planting season, which is in addition to the 200,000 planted in the last couple of years.
“Planting thousands of trees in Suffolk is one of the ways we are working to reverse the decline in Suffolk’s biodiversity, by providing habitats for our wildlife. As a council, we have made a commitment to improve the biodiversity on at least 30% of our own estate by 2030.”
“I’m delighted to support this additional money to enhance the work we are already doing to protect our trees and hedgerows. We have a dedicated team which oversees all our natural environment work and we recently recruited to a new position, a Senior Arboricultural Officer, to help deploy our tree management strategy.”
“Along with the support of The Woodland Trust, Suffolk Tree Warden Network and local communities, we continue to care for our new and existing trees and hedgerows, and the wildlife that depends on them.”
The investment helps work towards the council’s ambitions of being a Net Zero organisation by 2030, and supporting the recovery of Suffolk’s nature that is so vital to this.
People are the priority in working out new ways to provide social care
A column by Councillor Beccy Hopfensperger, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care
Anyone who has had even a cursory look through this year's County Council budget recommendations, will have seen some large savings associated with adult social care under the heading of "Transformation". So, I thought I would talk a little bit about what this means and why it really shouldn’t be looked at as just a money saving exercise.
Adult social care has been successful over the last 5 years at finding new and innovative ways of working. Of course, right in the middle of that was the need to work entirely differently during the pandemic, but beyond that, teams across the council have been outstanding at finding new ways to deliver the very best care they can, whilst at the same time managing to save around £33M so far which has been used to support other services under pressure.
Let me be clear - value for money matters, especially when you consider that with the additional money recommended to be invested this year, adult social care will have a net budget of £326M - that is over half of the entire County Council net budget. Every penny spent in adult social care could potentially support a child with special educational needs, help maintain the road and infrastructure of the county, or support any of the other essential services the council provides, so yes - the money really does matter. However, I assure you saving money is never the main focus of finding new ways of working in adult social care. That has always been, and will always be, to do all we can to help people to live fulfilling and independent lives in their community.
So when the council talks about transformation within the budget recommendations, what exactly do some of those new ways of working look like? One of the best examples of working in a new way, that not only provides better care for people but also saves money, would be our Cassius digital care service. Cassius was created in partnership with leading technology experts 18 months ago. We’ve achieved an incredible amount since the launch, with over 2,500 referrals and currently around 1,900 people being supported with care technology either as part of their package of care or as a standalone way to help them live well. This has helped maintain their independence, boosted their confidence, and given peace of mind to their families - truly incredible outcomes for people. But Cassius has also been able to generate over £2.5m worth of savings by using technology to better manage people's care needs, delaying or avoiding entirely more expensive traditional care options.
Another new way of working, included within this year's proposed budget, is to explore the use of some simple technology to better monitor the time spent by carers during home care visits. Our hope is that this will ensure carers are spending the correct time with people. This technology is already used by some private care providers, and widening this out could potentially benefit others who would be able to better manage the rotas and routines of their own staff. It will certainly benefit the people being cared for, who will always get the care and support they need and are entitled to. At the same time the council would be able to ensure people are well looked after, whilst also only paying for the care that is being delivered, getting best value for money for the taxpayer.
I am really proud to say that in all my discussions with officers over the various transformations happening within adult social care in Suffolk, I am constantly impressed with their eagerness to find better ways to support people. For them the person and family receiving the care and support is always their first priority.
Sometimes others like to portray the budget process as a pure numbers game, where investment is good, and savings are bad. They create a myth that services can only be improved if you just spend more money on them. Well that simply isn't the case, certainly not in Suffolk.
This year, if the budget gets approved next month, we will be spending over £30M more on adult social care, but most of that new money will be used to support the care sector with inflationary pressures and helping to provide higher care fees. Ultimately, it will be the various transformation programmes, those exciting new ways of working, that will be the catalyst for better services and even better care for the people of Suffolk, and I for one am looking forward to seeing them develop and grow.
Plans to boost funding for Citizens Advice to support people during Cost-of-Living challenges
Suffolk County Council plans to increase its funding to Local Citizens Advice in Suffolk by £45,000, to support Suffolk Residents during the current Cost of Living challenges.
The Council has set out in its 2023/24 budget proposals, that it plans to increase the amount of funding it provides to the Citizens Advice Bureau from £120,000 in the 2022/23 financial year, to £165,000 for the 2023/24 financial year. Suffolk County Council’s budget proposals will be voted on in February.
The additional funding reflects the increased demand the service is seeing in light of the current cost of living pressures.
“We recognise the additional pressures the Citizens Advice and other voluntary organisations are under as more people are seeking support with the rising cost of living.
People look to Citizens Advice in times of need, to provide friendly, non-judgemental and impartial advice, to help them find a way forward. This is why we have set out additional support for the Citizens Advice at this crucial time.”
“We will continue work with the Citizens Advice and others to support our residents in the current financial climate.”
Councillor Bobby Bennett, Cabinet Member for Equality and communities
In a joint statement, the Local Citizens Advice in Suffolk said:
“The Local Citizens Advice Network across Suffolk appreciate the financial support given by Suffolk County Council to their core service at a time when we are seeing an increase in demand and also in our own cost base. This funding helps us to continue to provide residents across Suffolk with the advice and support they need at this difficult time, and we look forward to working closely with the Council in the future.”
Councillor Bennett added:
“This is an increase to the core funding Local Citizens Advice receives from the county council and we will continuously seek further opportunities to provide support for one-off projects in the future - for example, last year we were able to give an additional £150,000 for a specific project.”
Local Citizen Advice officers across Suffolk are supporting Suffolk residents who need support in applying to the Local Welfare Assistance Scheme. The scheme was relaunched in October 2022 with an online application form. Suffolk residents can visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/LWAS to find out whether they may be eligible for financial support through Suffolk’s Local Welfare Assistance Scheme.
Citizens Advice provides free, confidential, independent and impartial advice on a wide range of topics. Find your local office at www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Temporary changes with next phase of £7.8m redevelopment of Foxhall Recycling Centre
Users of Foxhall Recycling Centre near Ipswich are being advised of major works that will temporarily mean fewer parking spaces and reduced access as part of a £7.8 million redevelopment programme.
Starting on January 26 this phase of work is scheduled to last until the summer and will raise the site level to allow for the removal of steps when using containers for recycling, making it easier for users and improving access from Foxhall Road.
The redeveloped Foxhall Recycling Centre will provide increased capacity for vehicles on site, reduced queuing, improved access from Foxhall Road, and greater capacity to meet future growth.
It is the largest part of the construction work taking place and will temporarily limit the amount of space available for public use.
During this time, cars and car-derived vans, plus those with small trailers, can continue to use the site as usual through the online booking system.
However, vans, vans with trailers, cars with large trailers and trade waste must use an alternative site.
The nearest are in Carr Road, Felixstowe, or Portman's Walk, off Sir Alf Ramsey Way, in Ipswich.
There will also be no collection bins for textiles, glass, or paper recycling at Foxhall during this time.
Alternative banks for glass and textiles can be found all over the county by using the Suffolk recycling bank locator, while paper can be disposed of thorough household recycling bins.
The redevelopment of Foxhall began last October and, once complete, will provide increased capacity for vehicles on site, reduced queuing, improved access from Foxhall Road, and greater capacity to meet future growth.
This phase also sees the recycling centre’s charity Re-use Shop temporarily re-locate to The Ancient House in Ipswich.
The shop on site closes from January 23 and will open at the Ancient House on January 30. It is anticipated to move back to site in the spring.
The move will allow it to continue to sell items such as sports equipment, kitchen supplies, books, and toys collected at the 11 recycling centres across Suffolk and which would otherwise have been disposed of as waste.
Proceeds from sales go to The Benjamin Foundation, which has been supporting young people in Suffolk and Norfolk for more than 25 years.
Councillor Richard Smith, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Transport Strategy and Waste, said:
“Once complete the redeveloped Foxhall site will be a state-of-the-art facility serving the people of Suffolk for many years to come.
“This is a big project and we are doing everything we can to minimise disruption to users, and while we are sorry for any inconvenience we must introduce these measures as a result of the work required.
“I would urge users to please be patient and to plan well in advance if they need to use this, or other, sites.”
Fire service celebrates Government inspection outcome
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has been rated “Good” for its effectiveness and how well it manages staff by inspectors from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
An independent inspection undertaken last spring saw inspectors conduct a comprehensive review of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, from how it responds to emergencies to its equality, diversity, and inclusion policies.
Colleagues from across Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service were involved throughout the inspection process to give an accurate representation of the service.
In a report published today (Friday 20 January), HMICFRS praised many aspects of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, with inspectors highlighting that “the service is good at identifying risk in the communities it serves” and “works well with others to reduce the number of fires.”
The report adds that “Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service is good for how it promotes the right values and culture. There is a positive working culture throughout the service.” Inspectors also commented that “a culture of continuous improvements is promoted throughout the service and staff are encouraged to learn and develop.”
“I am delighted with the outcome of our latest inspection, which reflects our staff's loyalty, commitment, and tireless work to protect Suffolk’s communities, as well as the incredible achievements made by all teams since our previous full inspection in 2019.”
Jon Lacey added:
“There have been many improvements in this time, especially in our protection work with businesses and landlords which has seen us recruit additional staff and target the areas of highest risk, enabling Suffolk to remain a safe and healthy place to live.
“Progress has also been made behind the scenes to ensure that we have the right people in the right jobs. We want Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service to continue to be a diverse employer of choice, where staff can receive support with their health and wellbeing and have the career development opportunities they deserve.”
Whilst the inspection was mostly positive, it also identified areas where Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service can improve, specifically in terms of its efficiency and how it can make the best use of staff across its prevention, protection, and response activity.
The service was commended for “increasing staff numbers in important areas of work to improve performance”, but inspectors felt that improvements needed to be made in productivity and ways of working, including making better use of flexible contracts for firefighters.
“Our inspection report includes much to be proud of, and I am pleased that Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service received commendation on its effectiveness and how well it manages staff.”
Councillor Reid added:
“However, we do acknowledge that we could be more efficient at keeping people safe and secure, with work already undertaken to address this, including further investment in our Prevention team, which has resulted in a 60% increase in our home safety visits compared to 2020/21.
“We remain committed to making continuous improvements not just in our efficiency but in all areas of our work to enable us to maintain the highest standards of excellence and provide the best possible service to our county, regardless of whichever challenge may arise.”
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service was last inspected in August 2020 on its response to Covid, during which inspectors commented that they “were impressed with how the service adapted and responded to the pandemic effectively” adding that “the efficient use of staff was notable."
Cabinet backs consultation on devolution deal worth over half a billion pounds for Suffolk
On January 24th, Councillors agreed to progress to consultation on Suffolk’s proposed devolution deal which would hand the county more powers and control of over half a billion pounds in investment.
The decision was made at eeting of Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet this afternoon.
Councillor Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:
“This proposed deal represents a big opportunity for Suffolk. By improving local transport infrastructure, building more affordable homes, and developing skills and training provision in a way that meets the needs of the local economy and local people, we could create new opportunities and raise living standards for our communities.
“This is the start of a journey for Suffolk, and if agreed, this deal would mark a step change in our relationship with Government, placing us front and centre as a key partner and allowing us to ensure that Suffolk’s voice is heard in the national conversation. In time, it would open the door to further negotiations and even greater self-determination.
“I look forward to hearing residents’ and businesses’ views on this proposed landmark deal.”
A public consultation will be undertaken in early summer 2023 which will give residents and businesses the opportunity to have their say on Suffolk’s proposed devolution deal. To enact the deal, a resolution to change the County Council’s governance to a Directly Elected Leader and Cabinet model will need to be taken to Council for consideration. If approved, the Directly Elected Leader’s election will be held within six months of that decision.
Investment in new fire vehicles will help drive service’s continuous improvement
A column by Councillor Andrew Reid, Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection
Many of you may already be aware that Suffolk County Council is in the process of setting its budget for 2023/24, following a public consultation where over 2,600 Suffolk residents completed our budget survey.
This feedback helped to inform our proposals for the next financial year, which will be discussed by Cabinet today before being voted on at next month’s full council meeting.
Providing value for money for our residents remains a priority for our council, not just when budget setting but in every decision we make, with this being even more pertinent during the rising cost of living experienced nationally.
Suffolk County Council has not been immune to the increased costs, and we have had to create £15.5m of savings whilst still protecting our frontline services. But we are not just exploring savings; we have also made decisions on where to invest in our council to benefit people in Suffolk and ensure the best use of our money.
I am pleased that our proposed budget for 2023/24 includes significant funding for new equipment for Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service. Over £5.3m has been allocated to fleet replacement, which includes the purchase of 20 state-of-the-art fire engines, including nine new vehicles ready for use by the end of 2023.
The fire engines will be strategically placed across Suffolk to help deliver the fastest response to our county’s communities in an emergency.
One will replace a high reach aerial fire appliance at Bury St Edmunds Fire Station that is nearing the end of its operational life, enabling us to continue to attend incidents at height, such as in high-rise buildings.
Another will be based with Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service’s Driver Training team, providing a dedicated training vehicle to equip both new and current staff with the tools needed to help develop their skills.
These new fire engines complement the four dedicated rescue vehicles purchased in 2021, containing specialist equipment for undertaking rescues and making the scene safe at incidents ranging from car crashes to building collapses. Solar panels and more fuel-efficient engines were also fitted to these engines as part of our council’s aspiration to be a Net Zero authority by 2030.
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service remains committed to helping address climate change, having seen its impact first-hand when firefighters worked tirelessly to respond to a record number of incidents during last summer’s heatwave.
The service recently replaced six of its pool cars with electric alternatives and has invested in installing electric vehicle charging points at some of its fire stations to accommodate this. New emergency officer vehicles, due to be introduced later this year, will also be electric, supporting Suffolk County Council’s continued ambition to protect and enhance our environment.
To help achieve this, we must also dispose of our old equipment responsibly and ensure that it is reused where possible.
In the spring of 2022, we donated two of our former fire engines to our counterparts in Ukraine. Six Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service staff travelled over 1,000 miles across Europe to hand over the fully operational vehicles, which are still being used in Ukraine today and have been vital in the country’s response to its invasion by Russia.
Last year also saw an inspection from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Service, who undertook a comprehensive review of all aspects of our work, from how we respond to emergencies to our equality, diversity and inclusion policies.
Our inspection report was published last Friday, and I am delighted that Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service was rated as “Good” for its effectiveness and how well it looks after its staff.
Inspectors commended the service for working well with others to reduce the number of fires and praised the positive working culture, which includes promoting the right values and encouraging staff to learn and develop.
Whilst the report was largely positive, it also identified areas where Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service can improve, specifically in terms of its efficiency and how it can make the best use of staff across its prevention, protection, and response activity.
I am pleased to share that work is already well underway to address these points, with recent improvements resulting in a substantial increase in our home safety visits and fire protection audits of businesses and landlords.
This continuous improvement, along with the proposed investment for Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service outlined in next year’s budget, will enable our county to remain a place where people lead safe and healthy lives.
Who is your environmental champion?
The Awards, hosted by Suffolk County Council, celebrate the achievements of those in Suffolk who are protecting our environment, reducing their carbon emissions and inspiring others.
The deadline to submit nominations has been extended by one week and will now close on Monday 6 February.
A judging panel of previous winners, sponsors and environmental experts will then choose a winner in each category, with an environmentally-friendly ceremony to be held in March at The Hold, in Ipswich.
Winners at the last Creating The Greenest County Awards event in 2021, hosted by Suffolk County Council at The Hold in Ipswich.
“The Awards celebrate those doing amazing things to protect our environment in Suffolk. If you know someone who is making a real difference, nominate them for an Award, so Suffolk can celebrate them and motivate others.”
The Awards categories are:
Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Environment, said:
“The Awards celebrate those doing amazing things to protect our environment in Suffolk. Following COP27, the challenge posed by climate change is in sharp focus but it’s also the financial climate that is a concern for us all.
“We must continue making significant changes to the way we live, by protecting our natural environment, reducing carbon emissions, making homes more efficient, and reducing our energy and water use. By doing this, we save money on our bills – it’s the right thing to do for our planet and for our pockets.
“If you, your community or business are working hard towards net zero and inspiring others, please put yourself forward for an Award. Or if you know someone who is making a real difference, nominate them for an Award, so Suffolk can celebrate them and motivate others.”
The deadline for nominations is Monday 6 February 2023.
Nominations for a Creating the Greenest County Award 2023 can be submitted online at www.greensuffolk.org/awards
Free talks at The Hold to commemorate ‘When the Sea Came in’ 70 years on
The coastal floods of 70 years ago are widely acknowledged as the worst peace time tragedy to have occurred in Britain during the twentieth century. The floods, caused by a tidal surge and storms in the North Sea, claimed the lives of over 2,500 people in Europe – more than 300 of them in the UK.
'When The Sea Came In,’ at The Hold on Ipswich Waterfront on Saturday 4 February, will focus on the impact the floods had in Suffolk. The event will feature contributions from historians and flood emergency professionals and will highlight lesser-known aspects of the flood and its consequences.
Speakers include Dr John Greenacre, Dr Harvey Osborne and Denise Parkinson from the University of Suffolk, Dr Christopher Hilton from Britten Pears Arts and Peter Langford MBE from the Suffolk Resilience Forum.
The talks will explore a number of questions:
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What made the floods of 1953 so deadly?
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What were the implications for Suffolk’s coastal landscape and agricultural economy?
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What was the emergency response in 1953 and how effective was it?
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Is such an event likely to occur again? How well prepared is Suffolk to face a similar challenge?
Suffolk Archives is also hosting an exhibition of archive material related to the floods in the Wolfson Learning Space at The Hold from 11am on the day of the talks.
‘Suffolk’s Green Story - Reflect | Learn | Act’ will also be open in the Exhibition Gallery to visit for free. The exhibition explores the changes and challenges that have shaped the environment in Suffolk and what we can all do to make a difference today.
Councillor Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities said:
“The floods of seven decades ago are an important event in not just our county’s history, but regionally, nationally and across Europe. This event offers the opportunity to remember on this sombre anniversary, but also look at the present and the future and the risks of tidal flooding as a coastal county.”
For more information and to book tickets visit: www.suffolkarchives.co.uk/whats-on/
Suffolk Archives is also looking to enhance its collections, and have set up an online survey dedicated to collecting memories and experiences of the 1953 Flood in Suffolk.
Councillor Stephen Burroughes, Deputy Cabinet Member for Children & Young Peoples Services with responsibility for Fostering and Adoption
Few people realise just how vital foster carers are in Suffolk, there are 900 children currently living in loving foster homes across the county and this number continues to increase each year.
Against this backdrop there is an urgent need to recruit more foster carers for Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children (UASC) who make the brave and harrowing journey to flee war and destruction in their home countries and find refuge and safety here in the UK.
Tracey is a Foster Carer with Suffolk County Council and regularly shares her home with Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children. I have invited her to talk about her experiences, in the hope it may inspire others to consider becoming a foster carer for UASC children;
Why did you decide to become a foster carer?
I started fostering seven years ago when I was working in the local upper school’s exclusion department. I realised an awful lot of children were children in care. I started at an agency and was an approved foster carer with them for a couple of years, and then transferred to Suffolk County Council. It was a very smooth transition – I haven’t looked back.
What led to you fostering Unaccompanied Asylum-Seeking Children?
I didn’t go into fostering thinking that I would like to foster UASC but I was keen to as I had lived in Sudan for six months. Then it was literally a phone call at 11pm saying they had found a lovely young boy in the back of a lorry at Mildenhall Air Force Base and would I foster him. By the time he arrived it was 3am and he walked in looking like a rabbit caught in the headlights – he was the sweetest 13-year-old boy from Eritrea and that was our first experience. There weren't the usual foster care nerves - you just want to nurture them.
How did he settle in to foster care?
All he wanted to do for a while was sleep. It was the first time he slept in a bed and the first night he fell out of his bed. The second night he had made a pallet on the floor with his duvet, but he slowly got into bed. It was a very slow natural organic process, letting him settle in and slowly introducing him to the house, the family, the village and school. In the obligatory first day at school photo, he was beaming, and he never missed a day of school in two years - he would even go if he was feeling poorly because education to him was so important. He was soon signed up to a football team and became their star player.
Was there a language barrier?
He didn’t speak a word of English, so it was lots of gesticulation and lots of stickers over the furniture. I would say he was fluent within six months, and he wasn't in school for a while. The first two or three months we used to sit at the table and practise handwriting with primary school books. I just thought let's pretend he's five and it was lovely.
What support do the children receive from the fostering team?
Foster children are immediately assigned a social worker, who are fantastic. The social worker provided a translator and explained what was going to happen to him regarding Home Office interviews, solicitors’ interviews, biometrics and asking him a little bit about his journey. My involvement was getting him registered with schools, doctors and dentists.
Do you have a network of support?
Through social media I connected with fostering support groups, so my network expanded, and it is invaluable. Sometimes you don't want to ring your supervising social worker because it sounds so trivial so I have called other foster carers late in the evening and said, ‘what would you do in this situation’.
Where is your foster son now?
He's at college learning motor mechanics, he also is a driver on his bike for Deliveroo. He rings me once a month and you can tell he is just so happy in his voice. He is just the perfect example of someone that came here and was grateful for everything.
What would you say to someone considering becoming a foster carer for UASC children?
I would say give it a go, because you have nothing to lose and so much to gain. It has been a lovely journey and one I don't want to get off.
To find out more about Fostering with Suffolk:
visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/fostering
call us on: 01473 264800
Attend our virtual UASC information event on Wednesday 22nd February, 7pm.
Email fosterandadopt@suffolk.gov.uk to register your interest.
Cllr Karen Soons
Parish Newsletter Jan 2021
karen.soons@suffolk.gov.uk
07864 601 887
Visit suffolk.gov.uk/coronavirus for health advice, service changes, business support and schools’ guidance.
Keep up to date on the latest guidance on Covid-19 from central government here: www.gov.uk/coronavirus
As of Monday 4 January, Suffolk is in line with national Covid-19 Restrictions – Moving into a national lockdown. Testing capacity has increased in response to demand.
More than one third of Suffolk's total confirmed coronavirus cases were recorded in the last two weeks, government data has shown.
A total of 15,643 people have tested positive for the virus in the county as of January 2 – with 5,321 people testing positive from December 20 to January 2, making up 34% of all cases recorded in Suffolk by that point.
While the figures show cases are significantly on the rise, testing has vastly increased in recent months when compared to the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic. Mobile testing has increased countywide, while a walk-in test centre has also opened at Portman Road, Ipswich, alongside the permanent test centre at Copdock.
Matthew Hicks, Leader of the Suffolk County Council and Chair of Suffolk’s Local Outbreak Engagement Board, said:
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the steps taken by the public will be "critical" in the county's fight against the virus.
Stuart Keeble, Suffolk’s Director of Public Health, said:
“Suffolk is seeing a similar, sharp increase in positive cases in line with the regional picture, which is making more people ill and putting our hospitals under even more pressure.
“The new variant of the virus spreads more easily, we must all limit contact with others wherever possible. Even though you may not have any symptoms, you may be giving Covid-19 to someone else without realising it.
“We all need to maintain social distancing, continue washing our hands regularly, wearing a mask when appropriate and strictly following the government’s guidance.”
Support payments available for those told to self isolate on low incomes
As of the 24th December, more residents on low incomes or benefits can now get financial help if they are told to self-isolate due to COVID-19.
Previously Test and Trace Support payments could only be given to people meeting certain criteria, including on benefits. Now Councils across Suffolk have extended this, using their discretion, to help those on low incomes but not on benefits.
Councils across Suffolk are helping administer the Government grant scheme to help people remain at home and do their bit to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Details about the Test and Trace Support Payments can be found on District and Borough Council websites and how to apply for it (see below). This is part of a range of measures that councils across Suffolk have introduced to support communities and businesses during the coronavirus pandemic.
Those who are eligible will need to meet all the following criteria:
• You have been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace on or after 28 September 2020.
• You have responded to your notification from the NHS Test and Trace and engaged with the service by providing the legally required information. • You are employed or self-employed.
• You cannot work from home and will lose income as a result.
• You are currently receiving at least one of the following benefits: Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, income-based Employment and Support Allowance, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income
• Support, Housing Benefit and/or Pension Credit, OR (under the new discretionary powers) you have a household income of less that £37,400 (couple or single parents) or £19,200 (single person) and have savings of less than £3,000.
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• You made your application within 14 days of the last day of your NHS test and trace self-isolation period.
Applicants should ensure that they have the below information available before starting the application:
• NI number
• Your 8-digit test and trace ID number
• Your most recent bank statement, proof of self-employment or wage slips
Visit your District or Borough Council websites for details on how to apply for the £500 Test and Trace Support Payment:
• Babergh District Council: babergh.gov.uk/benefits/coronavirus-money and-benefits-advice/
• Mid Suffolk District Councils midsuffolk.gov.uk/benefits/coronavirus money-and-benefits-advice/
• East Suffolk Council https://www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/east-suffolk-test-and trace-payment-scheme
• Ipswich Borough Council https://www.ipswich.gov.uk/content/self isolation-support-payments
• West Suffolk Council Test and Trace Support Payment westsuffolk.gov.uk
Additional help, including financial aid, is also available from Suffolk Support and Advice Service. This additional help is available for those facing financial difficulty or needing support – especially for those who have never asked for help before. On 1 October 2020, the Suffolk Support and Advice Service phoneline was launched to help people across the county access information or support relating to debt, benefits, housing or employment.
People can contact the Suffolk Support and Advice Service on 0800 068 3131 between 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday or go
to: https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/suffolk-advice-and support-service/
Matthew Hicks, Leader of the Suffolk County Council and Chair of Suffolk’s Local Outbreak Engagement Board, said:
“This pandemic is sadly putting some Suffolk families and residents in financial difficulties. I know that some have never faced these pressures before, and have never needed to seek support or benefits.
“But I want them to know that there are services available to support them, and this new telephone number is the first call to make if you are worried about debt, benefits, housing or employment.
“Suffolk councils have been at the forefront of supporting our communities and businesses during the challenges of Covid-19. They are dedicated to carry on helping our communities stay safe and support our residents.”
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Suffolk 2020 fund projects to deliver over £2.5 million in new community-focused initiatives across the county
On the 18th December, seven new projects were announced as part of the Suffolk 2020 fund to support residents and improve the county for years to come.
As part of the council’s investment in Suffolk’s communities and its ongoing commitment to protecting the environment, the authority launched a special one-off fund in March with the aim of setting up and delivering a range of initiatives and projects that provide a positive, tangible impact in what has proven to be an extremely challenging year.
The announced initiatives and projects are as followed:
New booking system and automatic number plate recognition at Household Waste Recycling Centres – Improving the efficiency and customer experience across all 11 recycling centres by enhancing the online booking system using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) and automated entry barriers.
Adult Digital Learning - Developing new virtual learning tools and techniques and setting up a laptop loan scheme to strengthen and extend access to the Adult Learning Service for those living in digital and/or rural isolation. This approach will enable people to enhance their knowledge and skills to secure employment. Building on the swift switch to virtual learning during lockdown, we will further develop virtual learning for adults across Suffolk and use new technologies to enrich and improve the quality of interaction and training, modernising the service’s offer.
Youth Work - Developing and supporting growth of grass roots organisations to deliver accessible, high quality provision for youths across Suffolk. Includes creation of a virtual ‘Centre of Excellence’ to share best practice and provide a ‘one stop shop’ of support for youth groups across Suffolk.
Discovering Suffolk – raising awareness of Suffolk’s countryside and the county’s rights of way network, promoting local (Covid-safe) outdoor activities across all of Suffolk with the development of a smartphone outdoor app and QR codes to engage new audiences.
Automated Numberplate Recognition Speed Indicators – Devices will be installed at the roadside to tackle localised problems with speeding drivers. The devices will be periodically moved between sites of concern and the data will be forwarded to the Police to assist with targeted enforcement.
Virtual Reality therapy - Engagement and coproduction with people living with dementia and their carers to explore and develop interactive and therapeutic experiences to support wellbeing. These would be delivered through mobile virtual reality headsets and include bespoke content and interactions based around archive media of Suffolk.
Mobile Community ‘Care Hubs’ - Digitally equip and staff selected community vehicles accessing rural communities within Suffolk. This will support digital inclusion
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and provide a way to share information and provide help around the opportunities available with care technologies and other digital skills.
The work involved in setting up and enabling these projects will begin in early 2021, setting in motion a range of new community projects that will benefit people for years to come. The council’s agreement to move forwards with these exciting projects listed above follows the successful launch of the first three Suffolk 20202 projects that were announced over recent months:
EV Vehicle Charging Points – Making grants available to install around 100 vehicle charging points throughout the county. Particularly targeting rural areas and sites owned and managed by not-for-profit organisations such as Parish Councils, village halls, sports clubs, libraries and charities.
Tree Planting - Increasing tree cover, through rural and urban planting schemes, planting approximately 100,000 trees over the next 18 months, establishing ‘healing woodlands’ to remember those lost to Covid-19, and increasing biodiversity along roadside verges.
Quiet Lanes - Encouraging the use of non-motorised vehicles and more considerate driving at lower speeds along a range of the community’s self-selected rural lanes, with a view to adding 200 new lanes across Suffolk.
Matthew Hicks, Leader of the Suffolk County Council, said:
“Whilst 2020 will live long in the memory for many reasons, the launch of these projects as part of the Suffolk 2020 Fund offers some real optimism and effort to bring communities together, supporting projects that will provide social, environmental and economic benefits in years to come.
“The Suffolk 2020 Fund was only made possible because of the decision of this council to use part of the Government’s one-year financial settlement to invest up to £3million throughout 2020 to kickstart some of the beneficial community projects that ordinarily may not have received as much focus or opportunity, given the other huge, costly frontline services that the county council is responsible for.
“I am very pleased that in amongst the great deal of work that is happening to fight the spread of Covid-19 across Suffolk this year, that we have been able to ensure we continue our work to invest in these timely and incredibly worthy projects to improve the local environment and communities for Suffolk’s residents.”
Proposed changes to Sizewell C application are step in right direction
On the 18th December, Suffolk County Council welcomed EDF Energy’s movement towards reducing the number of additional heavy good vehicles on Suffolk’s roads.
As part of its response to EDF Energy’s latest community consultation on its application for Sizewell C, Suffolk County Council has welcomed the energy provider’s movement towards reducing the number of additional heavy good vehicle
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movements on Suffolk’s roads and increasing the use of rail and marine freight deliveries during site construction.
The Council has urged EDF Energy for many years to maximise freight deliveries by sea and rail and significantly, being of the view that the transport proposals were not sustainable, so it welcomes the proposals for an additional Beach Landing Facility on
Sizewell Beach to bring construction materials in by sea, as well as an additional night-time rail delivery of materials to site.
In its response, the Council also reflects that many of the proposals offered still lack vital elements in detail and assessment at this stage – such as impacts of the proposals on the coastline or night-time disturbance of residents living close to railway lines. The Council would welcome the opportunity for further dialogue with SZC Co. to better understand details of the current proposals, and the evidence base which has led to them.
Councillor Richard Rout, Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Protection at Suffolk County Council, said:
“It is encouraging to see that EDF Energy has begun listening to the concerns raised by us and Suffolk’s communities.
“Recognising the need for further detail, the Council does welcome the principle of the changes proposed by EDF Energy, as they begin to address some of the concerns we have repeatedly raised. However, we feel there still remains work to be done if the scheme is to be acceptable to us and our communities - not least in the area of further eliminating, minimising, mitigating, or compensating for the impact of the scheme on Suffolk’s unique natural environment.
“I believe it is essential that EDF Energy now fully pursues the development of these proposals to further improve aspects of their application and overall scheme. The Council will continue to work with EDF to aim to resolve any new issues raised, overcome challenges and find suitable mitigation measures to enable these changes.”
Green light for new pedestrian crossing near Laureate Community Academy
On the 17 December, the green light was given for a new pedestrian crossing to be installed near Laureate Community Academy.
The move comes after widespread support and campaigning for a safe crossing on Exning Road to the primary school. Exning Road is a main route to Newmarket’s town centre and employment areas.
It is also hoped that the new crossing will encourage more parents and pupils to walk, cycle and scoot to school. Suffolk County Council’s goal to be the greenest County relies on the success of such initiatives.
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Suffolk County Councillor Andy Drummond for Newmarket and Red Lodge, said:
“The school desperately needs this crossing and I am delighted to have worked collaboratively with colleagues at Suffolk County Council and West Suffolk Council to deliver it.”
Rachel Hood, Suffolk County Councillor for Exning and Newmarket, said:
“This is a clear example of Suffolk and West Suffolk Councillors working together for the benefit of our residents with determined effectiveness to improve the safety of our children and parents.”
West Suffolk District Councillor Karen Soons for Newmarket North, said:
“I am thrilled to see this new pedestrian crossing approved. It will make Exning Road safer for children, parents/carers and staff. As a mother of 4 children, I know how hard it is to walk children safely to school on a very busy road.”
Help shape guidance for new housing developments in Suffolk
On the 17th December, Suffolk County Council launched the Suffolk Design: Streets Guide, and is asking members of public for feedback in shaping new residential developments (details below).
The Streets Guide is part of the Suffolk Design initiative which is where District and Borough planning authorities and the County Council are working together to improve the design criteria and guidance for new developments across the county.
The guide seeks to draw together national policies, guidance and other best practice and set within the Suffolk context. It covers more than just technical standards for roads, as requirements for footpaths, cycleways, utilities, sustainable drainage are also set out.
Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Rural Affairs, said:
“The Suffolk Design: Streets Guide sets out a different approach that focuses on the needs of all users rather than designing for motorised traffic first. By doing this, the opportunities for walking and cycling can be designed into and surrounding new developments and not treated as afterthoughts.
“The new guidance seeks to help designers and all local councils to understand and plan for streets that support sustainable travel, that are attractive places yet easy to maintain, and that reflect Suffolk’s heritage and landscape.”
Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Protection, said:
“I welcome this update to the existing guidance. Our streets function in many different ways, not just for cars to pass along or park. Streets are also places where people meet, where trees and other plants grow and how energy is conveyed for our homes and businesses.
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“All these different elements need careful consideration as we look forward to a low carbon future and adapt to climate change.”
The consultation is open until 5pm on Wednesday 10 February 2021. Members of the public can take part by visiting, www.suffolk.gov.uk/suffolkstreets.
Suffolk wins the Most Innovative Family Information Service award
On the 16th December, Suffolk won the Most Innovative Family Information Service award at the National Association of Family Information Service Awards (NAFIS), 2020.
The award highlights the work undertaken to adapt Suffolk’s online Community Services Directory, Suffolk InfoLink (www.suffolk.gov.uk/infolink), to meet the public’s rapidly changing needs during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Community Information Team and teams across the children and young people’s directorate worked together with thousands of community partners to collate and provide information to support to the public. Many service providers in the voluntary and community sector were quick to adapt their offer and were supported to use Suffolk InfoLink to promote these opportunities to the public.
There are 7000 community organisation records provided on InfoLink so this allowed teams to communicate information quickly to thousands of sector partners, and the voluntary sector, and report progress to relevant government departments. On a week-by-week basis Suffolk Infolink was updated to highlight which childcare providers were open for vulnerable children, and key workers such as NHS staff during the first National Lockdown which was an essential element of the Covid rapid response.
As well as helping key workers to find childcare, these developments also supported Suffolk’s Track and Trace, Home but Not Alone and the Suffolk Advice and Support Service and provided ‘easy to use’ access to essential information including financial help and food banks.
Councillor Mary Evans, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills said:
“I am delighted Suffolk has won this award for our Family Information Service, and its work with our Community Information Team in Public Health. The work of these teams to adapt our Community Directory Infolink has helped many families and businesses gain access to essential services and information during the covid-19 pandemic.
“I would like to thank both teams, our supplier Idox Ltd who were involved in this work, and in particular many of the 7000 partners in the voluntary and community sector who use Infolink to promote their services and support to the public during the pandemic.”
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Green light given for Council’s new housing joint venture company
On the 9th December, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet gave the go ahead to create a joint venture company to lead new housing developments on some of its own land.
Since 2019 the county council, as a major landowner in Suffolk (the 3rd biggest in the County), has been investigating how it can do more with its own assets to support district and borough councils in their role as strategic housing authorities, boost the supply of much needed housing in the county and ensure more of its land is being used to create social value within communities.
The decision follows months of detailed preparation, which saw strategic real estate advisor Avison Young and multinational law firm Pinsent Masons appointed by Concertus Design and Property Consultants Ltd; the Service Delivery Group of the council's Corporate Property Division. Their role was to consider delivery and viability options for a range of potential sites across the county with a view to consider how best to bring each forward for development.
As part of this appointment, and in accordance with the original decision of Cabinet in January, the newly appointed advisors also assessed the option of creating a new joint venture company to manage development of the largest potential sites. A business plan for the joint venture was presented to a meeting of Suffolk County Council's Cabinet on the 16th where it was agreed to proceed to the next phase.
Councillor Nick Gowrley, Cabinet Member for Housing said:
"This is an important milestone for our housing approach, and I wish to thank Avison Young and Pinsent Masons for their work in pulling this comprehensive business case together. Whilst this new joint venture will represent a major part of bringing forward specific land assets for development, it will still only be one part of our overall approach to housing. Those sites not considered suitable for the joint venture, due to size or scheme objectives, will be developed in more traditional ways, such as by sale to a local housing developer.”
New cycle parking installed thanks to Government’s emergency Active Travel Fund – Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill
On the 8th December, new cycle parking was installed in Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill as a result of the Government’s Emergency Active Travel Fund to help make cycling safer.
One of the positives to come out of the COVID-19 crisis is the noticeable increase in people cycling. Whether that is for commuting to work to avoid overcrowding the transport network, for leisure or as part of people’s daily exercise.
This has resulted in reduced congestion and improvements in air quality as well as supporting people’s health and wellbeing.
In Haverhill, the parking racks have been installed on the High Street and outside the Bus Station.
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In Bury St Edmunds two cycle parking racks have been installed on St Andrew Street South.
The locations for the cycle parking were selected in partnership with West Suffolk Council and supports the vision for their town centre masterplans. A third cycle parking rack in Bury St Edmunds has been installed outside the parade of shops on Westgate Street.
Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Rural Affairs, said:
“Many residents in Suffolk have embraced cycling during the pandemic, so we have a real opportunity here to make cycling safer and easier not just for this unprecedented period, but for the future as well to reap the associated health and pollution benefits.
“To get more people cycling long term we need to ensure there are enough places for them to safely store their bikes, so I am really pleased it is now easier to access Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill town centres on two wheels.
“I hope the facilities will encourage more people to grab their helmet and give it a go.”
Councillor Susan Glossop, Cabinet Member for Growth at West Suffolk Council said:
“We are pleased more cycle parking is being introduced by Suffolk County Council at trial locations in Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill town centres. We had strong public engagement in shaping the town centre masterplans with many public comments calling for more places to store and lock up bicycles in the town centres.
“Furthermore, it supports our commitment to the environment and improving public health, by encouraging people to not use the car to come into our town centres.”
Suffolk County Council’s efforts and commitment to active travel have been praised by the DfT, which is why the county council has been awarded a further £1.685 million in tranche two from the Emergency Active Travel Fund.
To keep up to date with how Suffolk County Council is making it safer and easier for residents to choose active and sustainable travel modes –
visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/adviceontravel
Proposal for new recycling centre for Haverhill
On the 7th December, Suffolk County Council, FCC Environment and West Suffolk Council opted to investigate the feasibility of building a new recycling centre for Haverhill.
The option of a site at Homefield Road could provide a bigger recycling centre with improved access which would lead to less congestion and queuing.
The current Haverhill recycling centre site at Chalkstone Way has previously been identified as requiring improvements or relocation as part of the council’s programme
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of recycling centre improvements. The current size and footprint of the site will not be sufficient for the forecast housing growth currently projected in the area.
Early plans for the new site involve designing out the need for steps, making it safer and easier for people to recycle their rubbish and also removing the need for the site to close for bin changes as the operational vehicles would be kept separate from the public.
Councillor Paul West, Suffolk County Council cabinet member for waste, said:
“This is an opportunity to improve on the service provided in Haverhill to ensure that the centre is fit for purpose for many years to come. The site at Homefield Road is ideally located and offers a more cost-effective solution for the Haverhill area. We are currently in discussions with stakeholders on the feasibility of these plans and are undertaking site investigation works.”
New public health report focuses on improving health for everyone
On the 3rd December, a new report was published by the director of public health which set out a blueprint for improving health for Suffolk residents, following the coronavirus pandemic.
The report, A Time to Change: Working Towards Better Health for all in Suffolk was published on the 3rd December and is available from www.healthysuffolk.org.uk. The report was procured alongside partner organisations, community member and volunteers.
The independent report makes four key recommendations, calling on residents, local communities, and partner organisations with influence over health and wellbeing to act now to level the playing field and improve opportunities for everyone to live healthier lives:
1. Suffolk needs to put health inequalities at the heart of what we do and strengthen our approach to health outcomes for everyone in our community – finding ways to reduce the gaps, in a fair and balanced way.
2. The best way to reduce inequalities is by involving communities, and to always build in active community participation.
3. The way we collect, use and link relevant data about health inequalities needs to be improved in Suffolk to inform evidence-based approaches that will have an impact.
4. Managing health inequalities is continual, so we need to regularly measure and review progress and recognise the changes we are making need to be maintained for the long term.
Stuart Keeble, Suffolk’s Director of Public Health, said:
“2020 has been a very different, and difficult year, for many of us. We know that the coronavirus pandemic has affected some people and some communities more than others, worsening the inequalities that were already present in our county. That is why health inequalities is the theme of my report this year.
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Health inequalities have been present in our society for a long time and are contributed to by factors including quality of housing, education, access to a good job, life opportunities, as well as what we eat, drink and whether we smoke. Covid-19 has brought many of these factors into sharp focus and this report sets out important recommendations for how we can address these issues collectively as no single organisation or individual can make a large difference on their own.”
Thousands of illegal cigarettes seized in Lowestoft raids
Trading Standards has successfully targeted Lowestoft retailers in illegal tobacco raids, seizing 21,880 cigarettes and 10.9kg of rolling tobacco.
The raids, which took place in October, involved officers from Trading Standards and Suffolk Police who targeted four different premises in the town.
The cigarettes and tobacco failed a visual inspection as genuine products. Investigations into the seizures will continue and shop owners will face a formal interview.
It is illegal for anyone to supply and possess-for-supply such tobacco, be it smuggled, bootlegged or counterfeit. With these cheap products on the market, it is easier for young people to become hooked on smoking and makes it harder for people to quit and remain smoke free.
Another consideration of illegal cigarettes is the fire risk they often pose. When genuine cigarettes are left for a period of time, they are designed to self-extinguish, reducing the risk of fires starting if left unattended. This design became European law in 2011, but many illegal cigarettes do not self-extinguish, increasing the risk of accidental fires.
Councillor Richard Rout, Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Protection at Suffolk County Council, said:
“In the last twelve months, our Trading Standards team has led four successful prosecutions against those who have sold illegal tobacco. Sentences passed by the judge have seen total fines running into tens of thousands of pounds, alongside suspended prison sentences.
“It is an activity we simply will not tolerate; it has a negative impact on public health and honest businesses. If you buy or sell illegal tobacco, it is stealing from the taxpayer - it’s money that could be spent on important public services like schools and hospitals. We will continue to pursue traders of illegal tobacco.”
Legal tobacco is easy to spot, it should be in plain packaging, with safety warning pictures and any writing should be in English. Any packages that do not have the above will be illegal for sale.
You can anonymously report someone for selling illicit tobacco by calling the national Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 040506.
New and improved recycling centre to open next month
A new and improved recycling centre will open in Bury St Edmunds at the end of November.
The flagship site in Fornham Road will replace the current recycling centre at Rougham Hill, Bury St Edmunds, which will close its doors permanently.
Opening soon, this will be the first open air site in Suffolk where all containers can be accessed by the public from ground level, removing the need for steps. Visitors will be able to recycle the same wide range of materials currently available at the Rougham Hill Recycling Centre.
A charity Reuse shop, which will take materials suitable for reuse from our recycling centres, will also be opening on site towards the end of the year.
Paul West, Cabinet Member for Waste at Suffolk County Council, said: “This new flagship site will be a significant asset to people in west Suffolk.
“It is purpose-built to enable residents to recycle and reuse their rubbish safely and efficiently and as all the containers are now on one level, there are no steps to contend with. It is also a safer site with lorries emptying containers in a totally separate area.”
Suffolk’s Recycling Centres are operated by FCC Environment on behalf of Suffolk County Council. All the staff from Rougham Hill will be transferred to the new site.
Once the Rougham Hill recycling site is closed, all site users should take their waste to the new Fornham Road site. No waste or recycling can be left by the gates or in the vicinity of the old site. This will be classed as fly-tipping, which is a criminal offence and is liable to prosecution.
For more information on the new Recycling Centre at Fornham Road and on fly-tipping please visit www.suffolkrecycling.org.uk
New and improved Public Right of Way set for reconstruction
On 16 October it was announced that Suffolk Highways will begin work on reconstructing the bridleway at Rougham Road in Bury St Edmunds, utilising recycled materials in the construction.
The improvement works will continue for seven weeks. During this time, access through the Public Right of Way bridleway will be maintained by the Suffolk Highways workforce. However, from 25 November, for two weeks, a full closure will be required.
The project will cost approximately £150k to construct and will provide a traffic-free route between south east Bury St Edmunds and Suffolk Park avoiding junction 44. The new bridleway will also link through to Sustrans National Cycle Route 13, providing access into the Moreton Hall estate, Suffolk business parks and the new Rougham Tower Avenue and Sybil Andrews Academy.
The route is a continuation of Rougham Road, providing a route beyond the lorry park on the old road surface running parallel to the A14.
Suffolk Highways worked very closely with West Suffolk Council, which had identified this route as a possible new sustainable connection in the town, and the landowner. As part of the improvement works, Suffolk Highways will be trialling solar powered lighting. Much like road studs, these units will provide a delineation of the route to assist users along the bridleway.
The lighting provides low level illumination to guide users, it is not designed to replace street lighting.
Richard Rout, Conservative Councillor for Hardwick said:
“I welcome the plans to improve the bridleway at Rougham Hill for walkers and cyclists. The route becomes very muddy during the winter months, making the surface unpleasant and uneven for users.”
“I am looking forward to seeing the completed bridleway and hopefully an increase in residents using it to access the Moreton Hall area and town centre.”
Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Roads, Transport and Rural Affairs, said:
“I welcome the improvements to the bridleway and to showcase the use of recycled materials as well as the solar lighting. This scheme will contribute to Suffolk’s commitment to becoming the UK’s greenest county.”
Suffolk County Council leader announces Cabinet reshuffle
On 15 October, Councillor Matthew Hicks, the Leader of Suffolk County Council, announced changes to the councillors in his Cabinet.
The reshuffle creates closer links between key policy areas such as the environment and Sizewell C and brings new ideas into the Council’s Cabinet.
In the reshuffle:
- Councillor Mary Evans remains as Deputy Leader and moves into the role of Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills.
- Councillor Gordon Jones moves into the role of Cabinet Member for Finance and Resources.
- Councillor Andrew Reid joins the Cabinet as Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Rural Affairs.
- Councillor Richard Smith leaves the Cabinet after four and half years in the role.
- Councillor Nick Gowrley takes on additional responsibility for the County Council’s property portfolio and assets, in addition to his responsibilities as Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Housing and Enterprise.
- Councillor Richard Rout takes on responsibility for the council’s policy on Sizewell C, in addition and linked to his role as Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Protection.
All other Cabinet positions remain the same.
In addition to the Cabinet changes, Councillor Karen Soons becomes chair of the Pension Fund Committee, a position previously held by Councillor Andrew Reid.
Councillor Matthew Hicks, leader of Suffolk County Council, said:
“I am confident that my Cabinet will continue to prioritise the needs of the people of Suffolk whilst making the difficult decisions that come with the role.
“It is important that we refresh and revise the way in which we work so we can continue to challenge ourselves, expand our skill and expertise and improve what we do.
“I want to thank Richard Smith for his time as cabinet member for finance. He has made an outstanding contribution in ensuring we manage our finances in a measured, effective and prudent way and I know he will continue to make a difference to Suffolk residents.”
Suffolk’s gritting fleet gets personal
On 14 October, SprEd Sheeran, Benjamin Gritten and Grit Rhys Jones joined the ranks of Suffolk’s gritting service as Suffolk Highways announced its newly named gritting fleet.
During the summer, Suffolk Highways asked attendees at the Suffolk Show to suggest names for its 41 gritting lorries as part of its first ever Gritter Naming Competition. The service received over 500 suggestions, the names were then judged by a panel including Councillor Mary Evans and BBC Radio Suffolk’s Mark Murphy.
The people who suggested the winning names were invited to Suffolk Highways’ depot at Phoenix House in Ipswich for a certificate presentation and photo with some of the gritting fleet.
Suffolk’s gritters now have their names proudly displayed on the front and side of their cabs and are ready to grit the roads when the weather gets colder.
Councillor Mary Evans, Suffolk County Council’s Deputy Leader and then Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Rural Affairs, said:
“It has been fantastic to see the enthusiasm from Suffolk’s children and adults during Suffolk’s first ever naming of the gritters.
“The activity has drawn Suffolk residents closer to our gritting service and helped personalise the fleet, whilst celebrating the fantastic commitment shown from all those involved in the winter service year after year. “
I want to say a huge thank you and congratulations to all those who put forward the winning names for our gritters. I will be very excited to see the gritters out and about keeping our county safe and moving during the winter.”
Residents will be able to follow the gritting activity on Twitter at @Suff_Highways during the season and if they spot one of the newly named gritters in action they can send a picture to us on Twitter at @Suff_Highways #WinterReady
Braking Point returns to help young adults stay safe on Suffolk’s roads
The Suffolk Roadsafe board is working with 16 and 17-year-old students to encourage young people to stay safe on Suffolk’s roads.
The Suffolk Roadsafe board is a partnership between Suffolk County Council, Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, the Police and Crime Commissioner, Suffolk Constabulary, Highways England, and the East of England Ambulance Service.
The Road Safety Team’s Braking Point project relaunched in the week of 7 October and will be visiting 20 schools across Suffolk to deliver the Braking Point play. The play, delivered by Performance in Education, is designed to encourage the safe behaviours of both drivers and passengers.
Once the theatre tour ends, just before the autumn half-term, the Road Safety team will provide classroom-based follow-up sessions in schools, which will continue to run into 2020. These sessions are designed to change student behaviour by normalising sensible decision making on the highway. These interactive sessions have been shown to shift students’ attitudes to road safety and to provide them with more knowledge which they can take forwards as they become responsible drivers on Suffolk’s roads.
Find out more information about Braking Point on the Suffolk Roadsafe website.
Suffolk primary school scoops sustainable travel award
Children from Barrow Primary School have been recognised for their efforts in encouraging active travel to school.
A recent study shows that more pupils are now walking and cycling to and from school. Car use has dropped in comparison to previous years and pupils’ awareness of road safety and environmental issues has also improved.
Barrow Primary School is now one of three schools in Suffolk to achieve a Bronze Modeshift STARS award – a national scheme which recognises schools which have demonstrated excellence in supporting cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel.
The award scheme encourages schools across England to implement their own travel plans to increase levels of sustainable and active travel in order to improve the health and well-being of children and young people.
The primary school’s journey to achieve the Bronze accreditation began when pupils and teachers decided to implement a Travel Plan to encourage sustainable travel. Following the implementation of the plan, 36% of pupils now usually travel to school by active travel (walk, bike and scooter) with a further 23% using the park and stride option (being driven to a location away from the school and walking the rest of the distance).
The school worked with colleagues from Suffolk County Council and the local community to develop the travel plan.
Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member responsible for Highways, Transport and Rural Affairs, said:
“It is fantastic to see the measures that Barrow Primary School has put in place to encourage more parents/carers and children to consider sustainable transport on the school run.
“As more children are aware of the current climate emergency the Modeshift STARS awards are an ideal way for schools, pupils and parents to join forces and reduce the impact of the school run and make active travel an attractive alternative, even if it’s just a few days a week.” “Keep up the good work Barrow Primary School.”
County Councillor Karen Soons for Thingoe South, said:
“I am thrilled that Barrow School has been recognised for their work in encouraging children travel to school in sustainable ways. This will not only benefit the children’s fitness and wellbeing but will benefit Barrow’s environment and air quality.”
For more information about Modeshift STARS please visit modeshiftstars.org
First time central heating systems for Suffolk residents
A further 200 Suffolk homes without central heating will soon be able to have their first ever system installed.
On 7 October it was reported that Suffolk’s local authorities have secured an additional £760,000 of funding from the Warm Homes Fund. This will enable the installation of 204 first time central heating systems in eligible, fuel-poor households across Suffolk over the next three years.
This is in addition to the original funding secured by the partnership in 2017 for 514 systems, over 200 of which have already been delivered.
Around four million UK households are in fuel poverty, unable to affordably heat their home to the temperature needed to stay warm and healthy. As well as being on low incomes many of these households are also faced with the additional burden of relying on heating systems that are inefficient and expensive to run.
A resident who has received a central heating system as part of the project said:
“Many thanks for all your help and enabling me to be warm this winter and in the future - without which I don't know what I would have done”.
The £150m Warm Homes Fund was established by National Grid using part of the proceeds from the sale of the company’s majority stake in its gas distribution business. It funds the installation of affordable heating solutions in fuel poor households which don’t use mains gas as their primary source of heat.
The Suffolk project is being managed by Suffolk County Council, administered by Suffolk Warm Homes Healthy People based at East Suffolk Council and is supported with further funding from Ipswich Borough, Babergh District, Mid-Suffolk District, East Suffolk and West Suffolk Councils.
Alongside the first-time central heating system, eligible households can also benefit from new insulation measures to make their homes more energy efficient, as well as grants from the Suffolk Community Foundation’s ‘Surviving Winter Appeal’.
Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Protection said:
“I am delighted that this extra funding has been secured. Suffolk’s local authorities work very hard to secure funding to support our most vulnerable residents and this additional funding will help even more fuel poor households stay warm and healthy.
“I would encourage anyone who does not have a central heating system and finds it a challenge to afford their energy bills to contact Suffolk Warm Homes Healthy People on 03456 037686 quoting the Warm Homes Fund or visit www.greensuffolk.org/whf to find out more.”
Launch of the Annual Public Health Report - Suffolk Through a Child’s Eyes
The Annual Public Health Report, ‘Suffolk Through a Child’s Eyes’ was launched at the Health and Wellbeing Board Conference on 2 October.
This year’s Annual Public Health Report – an independent report from the director of public health – focuses on what it is like to live and grow up in Suffolk from a child’s perspective.
Integral to this year’s report is the accompanying short film produced in conjunction with Signals (an arts and education charity) and Public Health Suffolk, to capture what Suffolk children and young people think about four topics; Friends and Family; Feelings; Fit and Healthy and Future Hopes and Dreams. Watch the film on the Healthy Suffolk website https://www.healthysuffolk.org.uk
Their feedback has been used, together with local and national evidence, to produce the report’s recommendations. These recommendations form areas for action, and focus on how families, practitioners and policy makers can continue to support all children in Suffolk to reach their full potential.
Stuart Keeble, Director of Public Health at Suffolk County Council, said:
“Through the Health and Wellbeing Board, organisations across Suffolk have committed to work together to give children in Suffolk the best start in life.
“For this year’s Annual Public Health Report, we engaged with children and young people in Suffolk to understand what Suffolk looks like through a child’s eyes.
“The report shows how children value their families, friends and the opportunities available to them. However, it also clearly demonstrates the different experiences children have within Suffolk. Our more disadvantaged children tend to have poorer health and wellbeing and fewer opportunities, and this needs to change.
"Organisations in Suffolk are already doing a lot to improve the lives of children with the highest level of need, and today’s conference has brought these groups together to address these recommendations so we can move towards all Suffolk children having what they deserve, the best start in life.”
The Health and Wellbeing strategy has recently been refreshed for 2019-22 and identifies four key priorities:
- Every Child in Suffolk to have the Best Start in Life
- People of working age are supported to optimise their health and wellbeing
- Older People in Suffolk have a Good Quality of Life
- People in Suffolk have the Opportunity to Improve their Mental Health and Wellbeing.
The Annual Public Health Report addresses the Health and Wellbeing Board’s first priority: ‘Every child in Suffolk to have the best start in life’. The full report can be viewed on the Healthy Suffolk website https://www.healthysuffolk.org.uk.
Register to vote by 5pm 26th Nov to be able to vote in the general election on the 12th of December https://www.gov.uk/register-to-vote
Postal vote application forms can be obtained from me or the website above and need to arrive at the
Election Office, West Suffolk House, Western Way, Bury St Edmunds IP33 3YU no later than 5pm 26th Nov. Useful details below should you have any queries?
Election Hotline 01284 757 131
Email elections@westsuffolk.gov.uk
Cabinet Member forNOVEMBER HealthDeDecember 2018 NewsletterMarch
Cllr Karen Soons
Parish Newsletter Jan 2021
karen.soons@suffolk.gov.uk
07864 601 887
Visit suffolk.gov.uk/coronavirus for health advice, service changes, business support and schools’ guidance.
Keep up to date on the latest guidance on Covid-19 from central government here: www.gov.uk/coronavirus
As of Monday 4 January, Suffolk is in line with national Covid-19 Restrictions – Moving into a national lockdown. Testing capacity has increased in response to demand.
More than one third of Suffolk's total confirmed coronavirus cases were recorded in the last two weeks, government data has shown.
A total of 15,643 people have tested positive for the virus in the county as of January 2 – with 5,321 people testing positive from December 20 to January 2, making up 34% of all cases recorded in Suffolk by that point.
While the figures show cases are significantly on the rise, testing has vastly increased in recent months when compared to the first wave of the coronavirus pandemic. Mobile testing has increased countywide, while a walk-in test centre has also opened at Portman Road, Ipswich, alongside the permanent test centre at Copdock.
Matthew Hicks, Leader of the Suffolk County Council and Chair of Suffolk’s Local Outbreak Engagement Board, said:
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the steps taken by the public will be "critical" in the county's fight against the virus.
Stuart Keeble, Suffolk’s Director of Public Health, said:
“Suffolk is seeing a similar, sharp increase in positive cases in line with the regional picture, which is making more people ill and putting our hospitals under even more pressure.
“The new variant of the virus spreads more easily, we must all limit contact with others wherever possible. Even though you may not have any symptoms, you may be giving Covid-19 to someone else without realising it.
“We all need to maintain social distancing, continue washing our hands regularly, wearing a mask when appropriate and strictly following the government’s guidance.”
Support payments available for those told to self isolate on low incomes
As of the 24th December, more residents on low incomes or benefits can now get financial help if they are told to self-isolate due to COVID-19.
Previously Test and Trace Support payments could only be given to people meeting certain criteria, including on benefits. Now Councils across Suffolk have extended this, using their discretion, to help those on low incomes but not on benefits.
Councils across Suffolk are helping administer the Government grant scheme to help people remain at home and do their bit to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Details about the Test and Trace Support Payments can be found on District and Borough Council websites and how to apply for it (see below). This is part of a range of measures that councils across Suffolk have introduced to support communities and businesses during the coronavirus pandemic.
Those who are eligible will need to meet all the following criteria:
• You have been told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace on or after 28 September 2020.
• You have responded to your notification from the NHS Test and Trace and engaged with the service by providing the legally required information. • You are employed or self-employed.
• You cannot work from home and will lose income as a result.
• You are currently receiving at least one of the following benefits: Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit, income-based Employment and Support Allowance, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, Income
• Support, Housing Benefit and/or Pension Credit, OR (under the new discretionary powers) you have a household income of less that £37,400 (couple or single parents) or £19,200 (single person) and have savings of less than £3,000.
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• You made your application within 14 days of the last day of your NHS test and trace self-isolation period.
Applicants should ensure that they have the below information available before starting the application:
• NI number
• Your 8-digit test and trace ID number
• Your most recent bank statement, proof of self-employment or wage slips
Visit your District or Borough Council websites for details on how to apply for the £500 Test and Trace Support Payment:
• Babergh District Council: babergh.gov.uk/benefits/coronavirus-money and-benefits-advice/
• Mid Suffolk District Councils midsuffolk.gov.uk/benefits/coronavirus money-and-benefits-advice/
• East Suffolk Council https://www.eastsuffolk.gov.uk/east-suffolk-test-and trace-payment-scheme
• Ipswich Borough Council https://www.ipswich.gov.uk/content/self isolation-support-payments
• West Suffolk Council Test and Trace Support Payment westsuffolk.gov.uk
Additional help, including financial aid, is also available from Suffolk Support and Advice Service. This additional help is available for those facing financial difficulty or needing support – especially for those who have never asked for help before. On 1 October 2020, the Suffolk Support and Advice Service phoneline was launched to help people across the county access information or support relating to debt, benefits, housing or employment.
People can contact the Suffolk Support and Advice Service on 0800 068 3131 between 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday or go
to: https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/suffolk-advice-and support-service/
Matthew Hicks, Leader of the Suffolk County Council and Chair of Suffolk’s Local Outbreak Engagement Board, said:
“This pandemic is sadly putting some Suffolk families and residents in financial difficulties. I know that some have never faced these pressures before, and have never needed to seek support or benefits.
“But I want them to know that there are services available to support them, and this new telephone number is the first call to make if you are worried about debt, benefits, housing or employment.
“Suffolk councils have been at the forefront of supporting our communities and businesses during the challenges of Covid-19. They are dedicated to carry on helping our communities stay safe and support our residents.”
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Suffolk 2020 fund projects to deliver over £2.5 million in new community-focused initiatives across the county
On the 18th December, seven new projects were announced as part of the Suffolk 2020 fund to support residents and improve the county for years to come.
As part of the council’s investment in Suffolk’s communities and its ongoing commitment to protecting the environment, the authority launched a special one-off fund in March with the aim of setting up and delivering a range of initiatives and projects that provide a positive, tangible impact in what has proven to be an extremely challenging year.
The announced initiatives and projects are as followed:
New booking system and automatic number plate recognition at Household Waste Recycling Centres – Improving the efficiency and customer experience across all 11 recycling centres by enhancing the online booking system using automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) and automated entry barriers.
Adult Digital Learning - Developing new virtual learning tools and techniques and setting up a laptop loan scheme to strengthen and extend access to the Adult Learning Service for those living in digital and/or rural isolation. This approach will enable people to enhance their knowledge and skills to secure employment. Building on the swift switch to virtual learning during lockdown, we will further develop virtual learning for adults across Suffolk and use new technologies to enrich and improve the quality of interaction and training, modernising the service’s offer.
Youth Work - Developing and supporting growth of grass roots organisations to deliver accessible, high quality provision for youths across Suffolk. Includes creation of a virtual ‘Centre of Excellence’ to share best practice and provide a ‘one stop shop’ of support for youth groups across Suffolk.
Discovering Suffolk – raising awareness of Suffolk’s countryside and the county’s rights of way network, promoting local (Covid-safe) outdoor activities across all of Suffolk with the development of a smartphone outdoor app and QR codes to engage new audiences.
Automated Numberplate Recognition Speed Indicators – Devices will be installed at the roadside to tackle localised problems with speeding drivers. The devices will be periodically moved between sites of concern and the data will be forwarded to the Police to assist with targeted enforcement.
Virtual Reality therapy - Engagement and coproduction with people living with dementia and their carers to explore and develop interactive and therapeutic experiences to support wellbeing. These would be delivered through mobile virtual reality headsets and include bespoke content and interactions based around archive media of Suffolk.
Mobile Community ‘Care Hubs’ - Digitally equip and staff selected community vehicles accessing rural communities within Suffolk. This will support digital inclusion
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and provide a way to share information and provide help around the opportunities available with care technologies and other digital skills.
The work involved in setting up and enabling these projects will begin in early 2021, setting in motion a range of new community projects that will benefit people for years to come. The council’s agreement to move forwards with these exciting projects listed above follows the successful launch of the first three Suffolk 20202 projects that were announced over recent months:
EV Vehicle Charging Points – Making grants available to install around 100 vehicle charging points throughout the county. Particularly targeting rural areas and sites owned and managed by not-for-profit organisations such as Parish Councils, village halls, sports clubs, libraries and charities.
Tree Planting - Increasing tree cover, through rural and urban planting schemes, planting approximately 100,000 trees over the next 18 months, establishing ‘healing woodlands’ to remember those lost to Covid-19, and increasing biodiversity along roadside verges.
Quiet Lanes - Encouraging the use of non-motorised vehicles and more considerate driving at lower speeds along a range of the community’s self-selected rural lanes, with a view to adding 200 new lanes across Suffolk.
Matthew Hicks, Leader of the Suffolk County Council, said:
“Whilst 2020 will live long in the memory for many reasons, the launch of these projects as part of the Suffolk 2020 Fund offers some real optimism and effort to bring communities together, supporting projects that will provide social, environmental and economic benefits in years to come.
“The Suffolk 2020 Fund was only made possible because of the decision of this council to use part of the Government’s one-year financial settlement to invest up to £3million throughout 2020 to kickstart some of the beneficial community projects that ordinarily may not have received as much focus or opportunity, given the other huge, costly frontline services that the county council is responsible for.
“I am very pleased that in amongst the great deal of work that is happening to fight the spread of Covid-19 across Suffolk this year, that we have been able to ensure we continue our work to invest in these timely and incredibly worthy projects to improve the local environment and communities for Suffolk’s residents.”
Proposed changes to Sizewell C application are step in right direction
On the 18th December, Suffolk County Council welcomed EDF Energy’s movement towards reducing the number of additional heavy good vehicles on Suffolk’s roads.
As part of its response to EDF Energy’s latest community consultation on its application for Sizewell C, Suffolk County Council has welcomed the energy provider’s movement towards reducing the number of additional heavy good vehicle
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movements on Suffolk’s roads and increasing the use of rail and marine freight deliveries during site construction.
The Council has urged EDF Energy for many years to maximise freight deliveries by sea and rail and significantly, being of the view that the transport proposals were not sustainable, so it welcomes the proposals for an additional Beach Landing Facility on
Sizewell Beach to bring construction materials in by sea, as well as an additional night-time rail delivery of materials to site.
In its response, the Council also reflects that many of the proposals offered still lack vital elements in detail and assessment at this stage – such as impacts of the proposals on the coastline or night-time disturbance of residents living close to railway lines. The Council would welcome the opportunity for further dialogue with SZC Co. to better understand details of the current proposals, and the evidence base which has led to them.
Councillor Richard Rout, Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Protection at Suffolk County Council, said:
“It is encouraging to see that EDF Energy has begun listening to the concerns raised by us and Suffolk’s communities.
“Recognising the need for further detail, the Council does welcome the principle of the changes proposed by EDF Energy, as they begin to address some of the concerns we have repeatedly raised. However, we feel there still remains work to be done if the scheme is to be acceptable to us and our communities - not least in the area of further eliminating, minimising, mitigating, or compensating for the impact of the scheme on Suffolk’s unique natural environment.
“I believe it is essential that EDF Energy now fully pursues the development of these proposals to further improve aspects of their application and overall scheme. The Council will continue to work with EDF to aim to resolve any new issues raised, overcome challenges and find suitable mitigation measures to enable these changes.”
Green light for new pedestrian crossing near Laureate Community Academy
On the 17 December, the green light was given for a new pedestrian crossing to be installed near Laureate Community Academy.
The move comes after widespread support and campaigning for a safe crossing on Exning Road to the primary school. Exning Road is a main route to Newmarket’s town centre and employment areas.
It is also hoped that the new crossing will encourage more parents and pupils to walk, cycle and scoot to school. Suffolk County Council’s goal to be the greenest County relies on the success of such initiatives.
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Suffolk County Councillor Andy Drummond for Newmarket and Red Lodge, said:
“The school desperately needs this crossing and I am delighted to have worked collaboratively with colleagues at Suffolk County Council and West Suffolk Council to deliver it.”
Rachel Hood, Suffolk County Councillor for Exning and Newmarket, said:
“This is a clear example of Suffolk and West Suffolk Councillors working together for the benefit of our residents with determined effectiveness to improve the safety of our children and parents.”
West Suffolk District Councillor Karen Soons for Newmarket North, said:
“I am thrilled to see this new pedestrian crossing approved. It will make Exning Road safer for children, parents/carers and staff. As a mother of 4 children, I know how hard it is to walk children safely to school on a very busy road.”
Help shape guidance for new housing developments in Suffolk
On the 17th December, Suffolk County Council launched the Suffolk Design: Streets Guide, and is asking members of public for feedback in shaping new residential developments (details below).
The Streets Guide is part of the Suffolk Design initiative which is where District and Borough planning authorities and the County Council are working together to improve the design criteria and guidance for new developments across the county.
The guide seeks to draw together national policies, guidance and other best practice and set within the Suffolk context. It covers more than just technical standards for roads, as requirements for footpaths, cycleways, utilities, sustainable drainage are also set out.
Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Rural Affairs, said:
“The Suffolk Design: Streets Guide sets out a different approach that focuses on the needs of all users rather than designing for motorised traffic first. By doing this, the opportunities for walking and cycling can be designed into and surrounding new developments and not treated as afterthoughts.
“The new guidance seeks to help designers and all local councils to understand and plan for streets that support sustainable travel, that are attractive places yet easy to maintain, and that reflect Suffolk’s heritage and landscape.”
Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment and Public Protection, said:
“I welcome this update to the existing guidance. Our streets function in many different ways, not just for cars to pass along or park. Streets are also places where people meet, where trees and other plants grow and how energy is conveyed for our homes and businesses.
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“All these different elements need careful consideration as we look forward to a low carbon future and adapt to climate change.”
The consultation is open until 5pm on Wednesday 10 February 2021. Members of the public can take part by visiting, www.suffolk.gov.uk/suffolkstreets.
Suffolk wins the Most Innovative Family Information Service award
On the 16th December, Suffolk won the Most Innovative Family Information Service award at the National Association of Family Information Service Awards (NAFIS), 2020.
The award highlights the work undertaken to adapt Suffolk’s online Community Services Directory, Suffolk InfoLink (www.suffolk.gov.uk/infolink), to meet the public’s rapidly changing needs during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Community Information Team and teams across the children and young people’s directorate worked together with thousands of community partners to collate and provide information to support to the public. Many service providers in the voluntary and community sector were quick to adapt their offer and were supported to use Suffolk InfoLink to promote these opportunities to the public.
There are 7000 community organisation records provided on InfoLink so this allowed teams to communicate information quickly to thousands of sector partners, and the voluntary sector, and report progress to relevant government departments. On a week-by-week basis Suffolk Infolink was updated to highlight which childcare providers were open for vulnerable children, and key workers such as NHS staff during the first National Lockdown which was an essential element of the Covid rapid response.
As well as helping key workers to find childcare, these developments also supported Suffolk’s Track and Trace, Home but Not Alone and the Suffolk Advice and Support Service and provided ‘easy to use’ access to essential information including financial help and food banks.
Councillor Mary Evans, Cabinet Member for Children’s Services, Education and Skills said:
“I am delighted Suffolk has won this award for our Family Information Service, and its work with our Community Information Team in Public Health. The work of these teams to adapt our Community Directory Infolink has helped many families and businesses gain access to essential services and information during the covid-19 pandemic.
“I would like to thank both teams, our supplier Idox Ltd who were involved in this work, and in particular many of the 7000 partners in the voluntary and community sector who use Infolink to promote their services and support to the public during the pandemic.”
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Green light given for Council’s new housing joint venture company
On the 9th December, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet gave the go ahead to create a joint venture company to lead new housing developments on some of its own land.
Since 2019 the county council, as a major landowner in Suffolk (the 3rd biggest in the County), has been investigating how it can do more with its own assets to support district and borough councils in their role as strategic housing authorities, boost the supply of much needed housing in the county and ensure more of its land is being used to create social value within communities.
The decision follows months of detailed preparation, which saw strategic real estate advisor Avison Young and multinational law firm Pinsent Masons appointed by Concertus Design and Property Consultants Ltd; the Service Delivery Group of the council's Corporate Property Division. Their role was to consider delivery and viability options for a range of potential sites across the county with a view to consider how best to bring each forward for development.
As part of this appointment, and in accordance with the original decision of Cabinet in January, the newly appointed advisors also assessed the option of creating a new joint venture company to manage development of the largest potential sites. A business plan for the joint venture was presented to a meeting of Suffolk County Council's Cabinet on the 16th where it was agreed to proceed to the next phase.
Councillor Nick Gowrley, Cabinet Member for Housing said:
"This is an important milestone for our housing approach, and I wish to thank Avison Young and Pinsent Masons for their work in pulling this comprehensive business case together. Whilst this new joint venture will represent a major part of bringing forward specific land assets for development, it will still only be one part of our overall approach to housing. Those sites not considered suitable for the joint venture, due to size or scheme objectives, will be developed in more traditional ways, such as by sale to a local housing developer.”
New cycle parking installed thanks to Government’s emergency Active Travel Fund – Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill
On the 8th December, new cycle parking was installed in Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill as a result of the Government’s Emergency Active Travel Fund to help make cycling safer.
One of the positives to come out of the COVID-19 crisis is the noticeable increase in people cycling. Whether that is for commuting to work to avoid overcrowding the transport network, for leisure or as part of people’s daily exercise.
This has resulted in reduced congestion and improvements in air quality as well as supporting people’s health and wellbeing.
In Haverhill, the parking racks have been installed on the High Street and outside the Bus Station.
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In Bury St Edmunds two cycle parking racks have been installed on St Andrew Street South.
The locations for the cycle parking were selected in partnership with West Suffolk Council and supports the vision for their town centre masterplans. A third cycle parking rack in Bury St Edmunds has been installed outside the parade of shops on Westgate Street.
Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Rural Affairs, said:
“Many residents in Suffolk have embraced cycling during the pandemic, so we have a real opportunity here to make cycling safer and easier not just for this unprecedented period, but for the future as well to reap the associated health and pollution benefits.
“To get more people cycling long term we need to ensure there are enough places for them to safely store their bikes, so I am really pleased it is now easier to access Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill town centres on two wheels.
“I hope the facilities will encourage more people to grab their helmet and give it a go.”
Councillor Susan Glossop, Cabinet Member for Growth at West Suffolk Council said:
“We are pleased more cycle parking is being introduced by Suffolk County Council at trial locations in Bury St Edmunds and Haverhill town centres. We had strong public engagement in shaping the town centre masterplans with many public comments calling for more places to store and lock up bicycles in the town centres.
“Furthermore, it supports our commitment to the environment and improving public health, by encouraging people to not use the car to come into our town centres.”
Suffolk County Council’s efforts and commitment to active travel have been praised by the DfT, which is why the county council has been awarded a further £1.685 million in tranche two from the Emergency Active Travel Fund.
To keep up to date with how Suffolk County Council is making it safer and easier for residents to choose active and sustainable travel modes –
visit www.suffolk.gov.uk/adviceontravel
Proposal for new recycling centre for Haverhill
On the 7th December, Suffolk County Council, FCC Environment and West Suffolk Council opted to investigate the feasibility of building a new recycling centre for Haverhill.
The option of a site at Homefield Road could provide a bigger recycling centre with improved access which would lead to less congestion and queuing.
The current Haverhill recycling centre site at Chalkstone Way has previously been identified as requiring improvements or relocation as part of the council’s programme
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of recycling centre improvements. The current size and footprint of the site will not be sufficient for the forecast housing growth currently projected in the area.
Early plans for the new site involve designing out the need for steps, making it safer and easier for people to recycle their rubbish and also removing the need for the site to close for bin changes as the operational vehicles would be kept separate from the public.
Councillor Paul West, Suffolk County Council cabinet member for waste, said:
“This is an opportunity to improve on the service provided in Haverhill to ensure that the centre is fit for purpose for many years to come. The site at Homefield Road is ideally located and offers a more cost-effective solution for the Haverhill area. We are currently in discussions with stakeholders on the feasibility of these plans and are undertaking site investigation works.”
New public health report focuses on improving health for everyone
On the 3rd December, a new report was published by the director of public health which set out a blueprint for improving health for Suffolk residents, following the coronavirus pandemic.
The report, A Time to Change: Working Towards Better Health for all in Suffolk was published on the 3rd December and is available from www.healthysuffolk.org.uk. The report was procured alongside partner organisations, community member and volunteers.
The independent report makes four key recommendations, calling on residents, local communities, and partner organisations with influence over health and wellbeing to act now to level the playing field and improve opportunities for everyone to live healthier lives:
1. Suffolk needs to put health inequalities at the heart of what we do and strengthen our approach to health outcomes for everyone in our community – finding ways to reduce the gaps, in a fair and balanced way.
2. The best way to reduce inequalities is by involving communities, and to always build in active community participation.
3. The way we collect, use and link relevant data about health inequalities needs to be improved in Suffolk to inform evidence-based approaches that will have an impact.
4. Managing health inequalities is continual, so we need to regularly measure and review progress and recognise the changes we are making need to be maintained for the long term.
Stuart Keeble, Suffolk’s Director of Public Health, said:
“2020 has been a very different, and difficult year, for many of us. We know that the coronavirus pandemic has affected some people and some communities more than others, worsening the inequalities that were already present in our county. That is why health inequalities is the theme of my report this year.
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Health inequalities have been present in our society for a long time and are contributed to by factors including quality of housing, education, access to a good job, life opportunities, as well as what we eat, drink and whether we smoke. Covid-19 has brought many of these factors into sharp focus and this report sets out important recommendations for how we can address these issues collectively as no single organisation or individual can make a large difference on their own.Ann”
Annual Parish Newsletter 2024
Cllr. Karen Soons
Contents
April 2023
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99% of pupils receive a preferred primary school place on National Offer Day
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May 2023
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Suffolk County Council Cabinet has agreed to a revised infrastructure policy to support water security in the region.
Suffolk County Council has underlined its commitment to library services in Suffolk, as it approved plans to increase its funding to Suffolk Libraries, to enable the service to continue operating at its current level, until the end of the contract in July 2024.
Suffolk County Council has set out its plan for improving air quality in Suffolk following results from a recent air quality survey, as its county-wide Air Quality Strategy is published.
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June 2023
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Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has announced plans to create a new fire control centre here in Suffolk.
A package of support has been created for pre-payment meter customers in Suffolk who are struggling with their energy bills.
More than 400 years of historical documents held at Suffolk Archives are to be digitised and made available online, thanks to an agreement between Suffolk County Council and Ancestry.
Better broadband is on its way for around 80,000 properties across rural Suffolk in a £100 million investment under a £5 billion government infrastructure programme.
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July 2023
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National Grid has opened its consultation to anyone wishing to comment on its Norwich to Tilbury proposal. Suffolk County Council is being consulted on the proposals as statutory consultee and have already raised concerns about the initial consultation undertaken last year.
Suffolk and Norfolk County Councils have been formally appointed by Government as responsible authorities for preparing a Local Nature Recovery Strategy for their respective counties.
Suffolk County Council has received more than £1 million from the government to fund participation in a national pilot scheme to promote cycling and walking as part of a more active lifestyle.
Suffolk Archives achieved Provisional Accreditation in March 2019 and today the UK Archive Service Accreditation Committee has moved Suffolk Archives from provisional to full accreditation status.
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August 2023
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The Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service Training Centre at Wattisham Flying Station near Stowmarket has recently undergone a £1.3 million upgrade.
Suffolk County Council is disappointed to learn that the LionLink interconnector project from National Grid Ventures has identified an alternative landfall at Walberswick, with cable routing making its way to the north of Southwold.
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September 2023
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Inflation, school transport for children with SEND, and looking after children in care are the main factors for SCC forecasting to spend £22.3m over its £688.1m budget for this year.
In a joint letter to National Grid, the leaders of the three councils address the extensive impact on landscapes and local communities that the National Grid Pylon scheme would bring.
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October 2023
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The new contract, which is worth in the region of £800 million - £1 billion, will deliver highway projects and improvements across Suffolk for up to 20 years, including maintaining roads, pavements and rights of way, improving drainage, hedge trimming, construction of new road schemes, snow-clearing and gritting and much more.
The Government has announced funding for upgrades to Ely and Haughley rail junctions.
Energy developers who are bringing forward large-scale energy projects without speaking to councils or communities, were criticised heavily today (October 11th) by Councillor Richard Rout, Deputy Leader of Suffolk County Council and Cabinet member for Finance and the Environment, following the latest publication of National Grid's Transmission Entry Capacity (TEC) Register.
Suffolk County Council is preparing its response to proposals for a significant off-shore electricity connection which could affect Saxmundham and Aldeburgh. It is encouraging local residents and businesses to do the same.
Almost £250,000 of funding was announced at an event (October 25th), giving a boost to the county’s ambitions to reduce the number of people excluded from the benefits of digital technology.
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November 2023
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At Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet meeting (7th November), Cabinet approved an extra £10 million to repair and resurface local roads in villages and residential areas across Suffolk.
The government has (on 31st October) confirmed funding for a transformative package of improvements as part of Suffolk County Council’s A12 Major Road Network scheme.
Suffolk County Council has welcomed the Government announcement - which is part of a Department for Transport plan to pump £609 million into highway maintenance in the East of England. £107,590,000 has been ringfenced for Suffolk over the next decade, including £3.4 million in this financial year.
4.7 million litres of water has been pumped away and 8,412 highways drains cleared of post-storm debris since Storm Babet first hit Suffolk.
Suffolk County Council has been awarded an indicative overall rating of “Good” for the quality of its Adult Social Care services.
Suffolk County Council has committed almost £1 million of funds to bring in additional flood investigation specialists as the response to Storm Babet continues.
The council has successfully bid for £99,000 from the Government’s Innovation and Capacity Fund, which will be spent on more events and materials to upskill and share good practice with councils around England, with Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs).
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December 2023
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More public money for adult and children’s care, but difficult decisions are needed to balance the books. In the next two years, Suffolk County Council needs to pump almost £74 million extra into protecting the county’s most vulnerable residents.
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January 2024
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Sizewell C triggered its Development Consent Order, meaning that work can begin to build the new 3.2GW nuclear power station on the Suffolk coast.
Suffolk Growth Partnership and Suffolk County Council have teamed up with the national organisation ‘Good Journey’ in a push to cut carbon emissions and widen access to our leisure, culture and nature for more people.
Suffolk County Council is announced its intention to create a new funding pot open to all arts and heritage organisations in the county.
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February 2024
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A 10-week public consultation on Suffolk County Council’s proposed devolution deal with the Government will start on 18th March and run through until 26th May.
New Cabinet structure will strengthen SEND reform
Suffolk Highways has welcomed the new pothole-repairing machine to help fix the growing number of potholes experienced nationally during the winter season, with a trial set to initially target defects in rural Suffolk.
Residents are invited to share their views on how they travel to help inform Suffolk’s Local Transport Plan.
Suffolk County Council has confirmed its financial budget for 2024-25 with a focus on protecting the vulnerable.
Suffolk County Council has secured funding of £201,213 from the government’s Local Authority Treescapes Fund on behalf of Babergh District Council, East Suffolk Council, Mid Suffolk District Council, Ipswich Borough Council and West Suffolk Council.
Regular weed treatment on SCC’s highway network will continue using a variety of methods, with plans for glyphosate being considered only when appropriate – the ambition still remains to reduce the use of glyphosate as far as possible.
Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet confirmed today that 60 new members of staff will be recruited to drive forward important reform to the way special educational needs and disability (SEND) services are delivered in Suffolk.
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March 2024
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A new campaign urging Suffolk’s drivers to switch off their engines when parked has launched (1 March 2024). The campaign against Idling particularly focuses on turning off engines outside schools to protect children’s growing lungs from unnecessary pollution.
The final section of the Gull Wing Bridge in Lowestoft has arrived bringing the completion of this significant infrastructure project one step closer.
Suffolk County Council believes that the failure of two National Grid offshore projects to coordinate with each other will cause irreversible damage to important landscapes in the county.
Suffolk County Council is to spend £3.6 million of Government funding over the next two years on strengthening and expanding Suffolk’s bus network.
Suffolk County Council has secured £7.3 million of funding to help develop electric vehicle (EV) charging across the county.
The Roadmender has arrived in Suffolk, as the county sees a 34% increase in pothole repairs through extra investment, more resource, and new ways of working.
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99% of pupils receive a preferred primary school place on National Offer Day
99.18% of children were offered a place on National Offer Day at one of their three preferred primary schools and 95.78% were offered a place at their first preference school.
Suffolk County Council received 7,056 applications from parents and carers indicating which primary school they would prefer their child to join in September 2023.
Families who applied online can log on to the Admissions Portal from today to see the school their child has been offered. They will also receive an email to confirm this offer. Letters will be sent to parents who made a paper application by second-class post today (17 April 2023).
Allan Cadzow, Director of Children’s, and Young People Services for Suffolk County Council said:
“It is great news that the majority of families have once again been offered a place at one of their preferred schools, especially with so many being offered a place at their first preference school.”
“We appreciate that not all families may have received a place at their preferred school. If a parents’ preference for a Suffolk school is refused, we will automatically add their child’s name to the waiting list for that school. Parents and carers will also be advised about how to lodge an appeal should they wish to do so.”
Once school places have been confirmed, parents need to consider how their child will get to and from school. If their child is eligible for Suffolk County Council funded school travel, they will receive an email by 12 May 2023 with details of how to opt in.
Any parents or carers with a child born between 1 September 2018 and 31 August 2019 who have not yet applied for a school place should make an application immediately.
Information on how to make an application can be found on the School admission pages or by contacting Suffolk County Council on 0345 600 0981.
Revised policy agreed to protect Suffolk’s water supplies
Suffolk County Council Cabinet has today (16th May) agreed to a revised infrastructure policy to support water security in the region.
As part of its focus on adapting to a changing climate, Cabinet members agreed a revision to the Energy Infrastructure Policy to cover future projects needed to protect and maintain water resources, including reservoirs, pipelines, and water recycling plants.
This new policy addition lays out how future water infrastructure projects will be managed and the council’s role with stakeholders, such as the water companies, Ofwat and the Environment Agency. It also sets out how the council will recover the money it has to spend in the planning process for infrastructure projects.
Richard Rout, Cabinet member for Cabinet Member for Finance and Environment, at Suffolk County Council, said:
“In order to adapt to the changing climate, Suffolk will need to host new infrastructure that is critical to safeguard our water supplies.
“Sufficient water supply is critical to so much of what we do here in Suffolk. It is something we take for granted – we all expect to turn on a tap and see water come out, but to secure that supply for the future, new infrastructure on a substantial scale will be essential.
“East Anglia has a huge role in delivering food security to our nation, and, for agriculture to be sustainable in our region, our farming community needs a guarantee that sufficient water supplies will be available.
“This supply is important for not only residential, business, and agricultural use, but also to protect and enhance the environment of Suffolk by supporting river levels and groundwater.
“The existing energy policy has been very successful in shaping the council’s response to new energy infrastructure and in guiding our engagement with applicants, regulators and government. This new addition will greatly enhance this policy and once again, shows how protecting and enhancing our environment is priority for Suffolk County Council.”
To reflect the changes, the policy has been renamed the Energy and Climate Adaptive Infrastructure Policy.
In February 2021, the Cabinet of Suffolk County Council adopted an Energy Infrastructure Policy, that set out the Council’s approach to major infrastructure projects for energy generation and transmission, with a particular focus on those consented under the Planning Act 2008, known as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects.
As part of that decision, it was agreed that the policy would be revised after two years.
Library services protected as Suffolk County Council approves additional funding
Suffolk County Council has today (16th May) underlined its commitment to library services in Suffolk.
Suffolk County Council has underlined its commitment to library services in Suffolk, as it approved plans to increase its funding to Suffolk Libraries, to enable the service to continue operating at its current level, until the end of the contract in July 2024.
Suffolk Libraries currently receives £5.9m per year from Suffolk County Council, however the service is forecasting a deficit of £60k per month from April 2023. The service has cited increases in service costs, a reduction in income opportunities following the Coronavirus Pandemic and rising inflation, as causes of the deficit.
This means it is no longer possible for the service to continue operating at its current level of service, within its current contract value.
At Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet meeting, the council has approved plans to absorb this cost pressure, funding Suffolk Libraries an additional £720k per year, through to the end of the current contract in July 2024. This additional funding will support Suffolk Libraries to continue delivering its highly valued services to Suffolk Residents.
Cllr Bobby Bennett, Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities, said:
“We recognise the important role that Libraries play in the community, they offer so much more than just books; providing community spaces which bring people together, to learn, socialise, read, and take part in activities.
“We are proud of the work Suffolk libraries do, which is recognised nationally, and we are committed to supporting the service to maintain this high standard.
“This is why Suffolk County Council is increasing its funding to Suffolk Libraries, to support them to continue delivering the outstanding service they provide for our residents.”
The council has previously made a commitment to continue to support Suffolk Libraries. At Suffolk County Council’s full council meeting in February, the council agreed to fund an additional £250k in the first quarter of the 2023/24 financial year to help with the increased costs Highlighted by Suffolk Libraries. This £250k for the first quarter of the year is included within the overall figure agreed by Cabinet, of an additional £720k for the 2023/24 financial year.
The council also supported Suffolk Libraries with £155,000 for initiatives to support residents with Cost of Living and support for Digital Inclusion in the 2022/23 financial year.
In addition, the Council continues to successfully access Section 106 funding to support ongoing building developments required to ensure buildings are fit for purpose and support service delivery.
Bruce Leeke, CEO of Suffolk Libraries, said:
“We are delighted that Suffolk County Council has agreed to provide us with additional funding for the remainder of our current contract. Our direct library costs have significantly increased over the last few years and the pandemic impacted our ongoing fundraising and income generation initiatives. This has combined to create a budget deficit which would have made it difficult to maintain the same comprehensive service for the people of Suffolk without additional support.
“Since 2012, we have been nationally recognised for delivering innovative and forward-thinking services which reduce inequality and improve community wellbeing, whilst saving a significant amounts of public money.
“We have a very positive and supportive relationship with the county council and this decision shows that councillors appreciate the responsiveness, skill and passion of our colleagues working at the heart of every major community in Suffolk.”
Spotlight on improving air quality as county-wide strategy launched
Suffolk County Council has set out its plan for improving air quality in Suffolk following results from a recent air quality survey, as its county-wide Air Quality Strategy is published.
Air quality continues to be an important public health issue and a driver of health inequalities which disproportionately affects some of our most vulnerable residents in Suffolk.
The county council recently engaged with Suffolk’s residents about their thoughts on the impact poor air quality has on their quality of life. The survey received 338 responses and had a particular focus on Ipswich residents, because Ipswich makes up four of Suffolk’s eight Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs). AQMAs are areas where national target levels of Nitrogen Dioxide are being exceeded.
Some of the results of the survey showed that there is a need to increase awareness about how residents can reduce pollution by reducing indoor burning of wood and coal, encouraging businesses to replace their fleet with low-emission or electric vehicles, reducing short journeys by car and considering more sustainable forms of transport such as walking, bike or bus. Vehicle idling when stationary is also a contributor to high levels of air pollution, an area the strategy will focus on going forward.
Councillor Paul West, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Ipswich, Operational Highways and Flooding, said:
“It is vital to ensure we are doing everything we can to tackle to problem of poor air quality across our county. The responses to our survey have given us a good starting point so that we can pinpoint particular issues to focus our efforts, however we want to continue this conversation with residents across Suffolk, especially those who live and work within the Air Quality Management Areas, or those who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution.
“The county council has identified the importance of this issue and as such has ensured the close working of those working in health and those in highways and other related services. It is essential that we work together to tackle the issue of poor air quality in busy and built-up areas across our county.
“We are continuing to study the impact that traffic in urban areas is having on the air quality, and with this strategy will look to progress actions to ensure the quality of the environment is improved in years to come.”
A key element of the Air Quality Strategy is a public engagement plan which is being developed to increase public awareness of the health impacts of air quality in Suffolk, enabling individuals to make choices that protect both their health and the health of others from the harmful effects of pollution.
The delivery of the strategy will be closely monitored by the council to ensure it is accomplishing what it has set out to do. The strategy will also feed into the collective work of the Health and Wellbeing Board.
Suffolk Fire Service to bring control room back to the County
Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service has announced plans to create a new fire control centre here in Suffolk.
Since October 2011, Suffolk has shared a control room with Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Fire and Rescue Service in Huntingdon. The joint project has worked well, saving both fire services money and enabling greater cross-border resource sharing.
However, the company behind a project to deliver a new IT system, initiated in 2019, has run into technical and financial problems, causing a significant delay. This, in addition to advancements in technology, has led to the decision to bring fire control back into the county by the end of 2024.
Councillor Andrew Reid, Cabinet Member for Fire and Public Protection, said:
“We have enjoyed a successful partnership with Cambridgeshire, and it served as a national example of how well sharing resources across counties could work.
“It is time, however, to bring fire control back into our county and under direct Suffolk leadership.
“We are committed to delivering the most effective and efficient services to our residents, and in this case, it is essential that we strive to find and develop a solution which is robust, sustainable and works for Suffolk.”
A new, Suffolk-based control room, with its own market, tried and tested fire engine mobilisation software, will mean modernised IT systems and improved public and firefighter safety in Suffolk.
Jon Lacey, Chief Fire Officer at Suffolk Fire and Rescue, said:
“Following detailed talks with Cambridgeshire the decision has been made to bring fire control back into Suffolk. This decision has not been taken lightly and will take time to implement, however, we are confident it is achievable and the right way forward.
“Clearly a lot of time has gone into our collaborative work to date, so I would like to thank the teams for doing everything they could to make this work.
“Communities in Suffolk will not be impacted by this decision. We remain committed to providing excellent prevention, protection, and response to our residents.”
The proposed new control centre will be brought to Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet for approval in September 2023.
Help for Suffolk Pre-payment Meter customers
A package of support has been created for pre-payment meter customers in Suffolk who are struggling with their energy bills.
Warm Homes Suffolk is a Suffolk-wide Council partnership service, delivering energy efficiency support to low-income households affected by cost-of-living pressures.
Supported by Suffolk’s Collaborative Communities Board and funding from Public Health Suffolk’s Contain Outbreak Management Fund (COMF), the service is now able to offer specific help for households struggling to pay their energy bills via a pre-payment meter, in addition to its existing support.
The support covers the whole of Suffolk and is available for all residents, whether they are in social housing, council tenants, owner occupiers or private renters.
The Warm Homes Suffolk Service can check eligibility and support applications for grants to increase household energy efficiency, with measures such as loft and wall insulation to air source heat pumps, draught-proofing and more.
It is estimated that more than 24,000 people in Suffolk are pre-payment meter customers.
The service will work with each individual to understand the pressures on their finances and the impact this is having on their lives. The service can carry out a home visit, as well as providing advice over the phone and by email.
The COMF funding of £180,000 will enable this project to run for 12 months to provide the following:
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Income maximisation (through grants and benefits)
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Budgeting advice
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Help understanding bills and heating systems
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Support to reduce energy expenditure (By promoting social tariffs and support to switch suppliers)
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Improving household energy efficiency (By installing insulation, draught proofing, heating systems and solar panels)
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Facilitating switch away from prepaid meters if appropriate
Councillor Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities said:
“I am pleased that through the Collaborative Communities Board and Public Health COMF funding, we are able to offer Suffolk residents who use pre-payment meters this help with their energy bills, which will support people financially as well as reduce the Health risks associated with inadequately heated homes. If you are struggling to pay your energy bills or know someone who is, please get in touch.”
Pre-payment meter customers who would like support can contact prepay@eastsuffolk.gov.uk to find out more, or call: Prepay West at 07769 365796, or Prepay East at 07769 366229.
Referrals can be made directly from households, the voluntary sector and professionals to find prepay households who can benefit from an independent look at their bills.
Warm Homes Suffolk also offers support and advice for residents who are not pre-payment meter customers. To find out more about the support on offer, visit: https://www.warmhomessuffolk.org/
Cllr Bobby Bennett added: “Further details of the cost-of-living support available for Suffolk residents and organisations can be found at www.suffolk.gov.uk/costofliving.”
Ancestry appointed to digitise Suffolk’s popular family and local history sources
More than 400 years of fascinating historical documents held at Suffolk Archives are to be digitised and made available online, thanks to an agreement between Suffolk County Council and Ancestry.
Suffolk Archives will work alongside the family history website Ancestry to create high-quality, full-colour digital images of millions of baptism, marriage and burial records from parishes within the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich.
The earliest records being digitised date back to 1538 and include events in the lives of notable historical figures, such as the 1776 baptism of landscape artist John Constable, and the 1846 burial of Thomas Clarkson who devoted his life to the abolition of slavery.
It is hoped that Suffolk’s main parish records will be published online in early 2025 with other collections of local interest to follow. Public access will be free of charge in Suffolk Archives branches or at any Suffolk Library. Anyone with an Ancestry subscription will also be able to access the records as part of their research from their own computer or device.
Cllr Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council, Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities said:
“Exploring your family tree has never been more popular and technology is making it easier and more accessible than ever before. This new agreement will lead to more than four centuries of fascinating documents, held by Suffolk Archives, being professionally digitised and made available online on Ancestry. As a result, anyone with Suffolk roots anywhere in the world will be able to learn more about their ancestors at a click of a button.”
Gary Peverley, Acting Diocesan Secretary, Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, said:
“Suffolk Archives is the official record office for the diocese, and they store a huge amount of material. This is an exciting project to digitise Suffolk’s parish registers and transcripts with Ancestry. Going forward it will make it easier to draw on the archives and offer improved preservation of the original registers ensuring they are readily available to everyone in the future”.
Further details about the project can be found on the Suffolk Archives website.
£100m broadband investment in Suffolk under government's Project Gigabit
Better broadband is on its way for around 80,000 properties across rural Suffolk in a £100 million investment under a £5 billion government infrastructure programme.
The county is one of three to benefit from Project Gigabit and was chosen to host the launch of the announcement by Minister for Data and Digital Infrastructure, Sir John Whittingdale.
Similar projects were also announced for Norfolk and Hampshire as Sir John was joined in Orford by Suffolk Coastal MP Therese Coffey and Councillor Matthew Hicks, the leader of Suffolk County Council.
Project Gigabit is the government’s £5 billion mission to roll out gigabit-capable, reliable broadband across the UK.
Improved connectivity unlocks new opportunities and fuels innovation, supporting the Prime Minister’s priority of growing the economy by creating better paid jobs.
Around 62,000 homes and businesses in Norfolk stand to benefit from £114 million of Project Gigabit investment, across locations including Buxton, Castle Acre and Horning.
A further 8,000 premises in the northwest of the county are being reviewed for inclusion subject to survey in the next six months.
This project is managed by BDUK who in turn have contracted CityFibre to do the actual work of installing the cabling.
CityFibre, the UK’s largest independent full-fibre provider, will deliver gigabit-capable infrastructure for around 218,000 homes and businesses having secured £318 million of Project Gigabit funding after a competitive process. The provider will also be making a private investment of £170 million to deliver the project.
Decisions on where broadband infrastructure is installed will be made by BDUK and not by SCC.
Survey work in all three counties commences immediately, with the first installations in the New Year and the first live connections expected by summer 2024.
Once connected, residents and businesses will enjoy access to broadband services over a network capable of supporting speeds of up to 10Gbps.
Cllr Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:
"As a rural county, we welcome the announcement of £100m for providing fast, reliable broadband to some 80,000 premises across Suffolk. This will build on our Better Broadband for Suffolk programme which has helped to deliver wider access to superfast broadband.
“Not only will this investment in our digital infrastructure help to keep our residents connected, but, since many of Suffolk's small businesses are operated from households across the county, it is essential for the future of the local economy.”
Councils set out concerns as public consultation opens for Norwich to Tilbury proposals
National Grid has opened its consultation to anyone wishing to comment on its Norwich to Tilbury proposal, previously known as East Anglia Green. This is an eight-week non-statutory consultation period which closes on 21 August 2023.
The project will see a new 400kV electricity transmission line built between Norwich and Tilbury, running a distance of 111 miles. It will be made up mostly of overhead lines and pylons, along with some underground cables and a new substation.
The new consultation reveals the route for the pylons, passing through Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex. It shows the line will run underground through the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on the Essex-Suffolk border.
The consultation is open to residents, landowners, businesses and any individuals or groups that may be interested in commenting on the revised proposals. Consultees can participate online or via face-to-face events.
Essex County Council, Norfolk County Council and Suffolk County Council are also being consulted on the proposals as statutory consultees. All three councils have already raised concerns to the initial consultation undertaken last year.
Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Environment, said:
“We must be looking to a coordinated offshore centred approach to energy transmission in the UK. Given our long-term energy security goals and the infrastructure that will be required, simply installing more pylons, and digging trenches cannot be the only viable solution. We will continue to stand strong on behalf of all the communities who will be affected by these proposals.”
You can read more about the Norwich to Tilbury project and view a calendar of consultation events on the National Grid website. You can also comment on the proposals by:
Norfolk and Suffolk councils given authority and funding to help nature’s recovery
Suffolk and Norfolk County Councils have been formally appointed by Government as responsible authorities for preparing a Local Nature Recovery Strategy for their respective counties.
This means that they will be working together to help improve wildlife habitats and reverse the decline of biodiversity across the region, working with local communities to develop a tailored nature recovery strategy for their areas.
They will also work with other local planning authorities, the Broads Authority, Natural England, and a wide range of stakeholders and partners, including farming and landowner groups.
This is all part of Government’s ambition to further drive nature recovery, with 48 individual local authorities across the country receiving allocations from a £14 million funding pot. Norfolk and Suffolk County Councils will receive £333,000 and £282,000 respectively over two years to fund this work. With the best ways to support nature recovery depending on local character and geography, Local Nature Recovery Strategies will help communities map out the action needed in their area to restore nature.
The Norfolk and Suffolk councils have already been working closely with each other, jointly hosting the Norfolk and Suffolk Nature Recovery Partnership, and a host of other stakeholders and interested parties to prepare for this moment. The two authorities have pooled resources and expertise and to ensure that strategies effectively join up across the two counties to the wider benefit of nature and people.
The Strategies will focus on how to improve habitats and protect the natural environment across the region, with local approaches tailored to the specific circumstances of each area. Norfolk and Suffolk are home to a variety of beautiful and unique landscapes, from the chalk streams of the Norfolk Coast to the Stour estuary at the southeast of Suffolk and across many habitats in between, and specific policies will be drawn up to best protect and nurture each location.
Future plans will include working closely with other neighbouring counties, to identify and support opportunities for nature recovery at sufficient scale to really benefit wildlife.
Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Environment, said:
“Protecting and enhancing the environment is one of our core priorities and we know how important it is to our residents. Nature is critical to everything we do and value – the air we breathe, the water we drink, the soils we grow food on. It is essential to many of our businesses, attracts people and investment to the county and is vital to people’s health and wellbeing.
“SCC has made ambitious commitments to restore nature across our estate and through services such as highways, and I welcome this opportunity for us to work with everyone else who cares about and can help nature recovery in Suffolk to develop an ambitious but achievable strategy to achieve that.”
Suffolk receives £1.49m funding for walking and cycling pilot
Suffolk County Council has received more than £1 million from the government to fund participation in a national pilot scheme to promote cycling and walking as part of a more active lifestyle.
The county is receiving £1,495,506 over three years as one of 11 local authorities taking part in the £13.9 million Active Travel England social prescribing scheme.
Social prescribing is a national pilot scheme to promote cycling and walking as part of a more active lifestyle.
The project, launched in August 2022, is helping councils run trials to evaluate the impact of active travel on an individual’s physical and mental health, such as through reduced demand for healthcare appointments and reliance on medication due to more physical activity.
This also includes allowing doctors and health workers to prescribe walking and cycling to improve patients’ physical and mental health.
As the scheme progresses, GP surgeries in the pilot areas of Ipswich and Lowestoft will be invited to take part.
Work is already underway with Suffolk and North East Essex Integrated Care Board and Suffolk Information Partnership to link some referral systems.
Suffolk will use its funding for projects that will see patients in parts of Ipswich and Lowestoft offered free access to guided walks, cycle training and bike loans.
Introductory walk and cycle groups are taking place now on Friday mornings in Ipswich at Murray Park and Holywells Park. In Lowestoft, they are operating from Normanston Park.
These will be available through July and August, with participants offered 1-1 journey planning, 1-1 buddy walking, or cycling and bike maintenance training.
From September, walking and cycling groups will take place across Ipswich at Whitton, Chantry, Gainsborough, Wherstead and Central Ipswich.
In Lowestoft they will be taking place at the Seafront, Normanston Park, Nicholas Everett Park and Sparrows Nest. Other venues will develop as the pilot progresses.
There will be varying levels of activity depending on health needs, with each activity lasting up to 90 minutes with a rest break and free drink in a local café.
There will be plenty of rest stops based on the needs of the participants. Equipment can be provided to include walking aids, bicycles, or e-bikes.
All activities are led by experienced and qualified cycle and walk leaders.
Later in the year other activities are planned in the form of community events, themed walks, or cycle rides, cycling courses and a digital walking app featuring challenges and treasure hunts focused on the areas of Ipswich and Lowestoft.
Councillor Alexander Nicoll, Suffolk County Council Deputy Cabinet Member for Transport Strategy, said:
“This is an innovative trial scheme and one we are looking forward to exploring the potential of now that we have received funding.
“The benefits of good health and well-being are already well-known. Helping people to achieve it through walking and cycling is not only good news for them but also for the wider community thanks to less road traffic and cleaner air.”
Participants within the target areas can be referred through a GP or voluntary group or a self-referral by contacting thewaytogosuffolk@suffolk.gov.uk or calling 01473 260060.
For more details about the scheme go the Way To Go Suffolk website.
Suffolk County Council has also received £545,528 over three years from the Government’s Capability Fund to develop and invest in cycling initiatives.
This includes setting up an accessible cycling scheme in Stowmarket for those unable to use a bicycle and working with a selection of organisations offering their staff a free six-week e-bike trial - launched with Associated British Ports at Port of Ipswich last November - and which now has almost 30 bikes on trial around the county.
Suffolk’s Archive Service Achieves Full National Accreditation
The service achieved Provisional Accreditation in March 2019 and today the UK Archive Service Accreditation Committee has moved Suffolk Archives from provisional to full accreditation status.
Accreditation is the UK quality standard which recognises good performance in all areas of archive service delivery. Achieving accredited status demonstrates that Suffolk Archives has met clearly defined national standards relating to management and resourcing; the care of its unique collections and the service it offers to a broad range of users.
Archive Service Accreditation is supported by a partnership of the Archives and Records Association (UK), Archives and Records Council Wales, National Records of Scotland, Public Record Office of Northern Ireland, Scottish Council on Archives, The National Archives, and the Welsh Government through its Museums, Archives and Libraries Wales division.
The Accreditation Panels are composed of Committee members nominated by the seven Accreditation partners and openly recruited from the archives sector.
The Archive Service Accreditation Panel “supported the move to full accreditation following the successful move to new premises at Ipswich. The Panel commended the determined efforts made by Suffolk Archives in developing and delivering community engagement across the county.”
Councillor Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council’s Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities, said:
“We are delighted that Suffolk’s archive services have achieved full accreditation following detailed submissions and inspection from UK Archive Service Accreditation Committee. Suffolk Archives preserves our local history so that people of all ages and backgrounds can discover more about their heritage, and this national accreditation formally recognises the important work they do. Suffolk’s local communities can be assured that their heritage is in good hands.”
Formal opening of £1.3 million Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service training centre
The Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service Training Centre at Wattisham Flying Station near Stowmarket has recently undergone a £1.3 million upgrade.
It now boasts a tactical firefighting facility, which uses real fire and an LPG-fired facility to simulate incidents firefighters may be faced with.
The most recent addition is the modular office complex, which features additional classrooms and welfare facilities for all delegates and staff.
The centre was formally declared open at the annual base families’ day on Thursday August 24 by Chief Fire Officer (CFO) Jon Lacey of Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service, and Colonel Toby R Moore MBE, Station Commander, Wattisham Flying Station.
CFO Lacey said:
“This is an exciting new chapter for the training centre, which has been at been based at Wattisham now for over a decade.
“Our new training centre provides additional classrooms and office space, supporting various aspects of fire and rescue training, such as incident command.
“It also provides improved welfare facilities, which was designed to bring everyone together in an atmosphere where they feel they belong.
“Similarly, the new training complexes allow us to give new firefighters the best training possible in a way that is realistic yet less harmful to the environment, through us not having to use as much carbon-based burning material as before.”
Councillor Andrew Reid, Suffolk County Council Cabinet Member for Public Health and Public Protection and chair of the Suffolk Fire Authority said:
“The work of the fire service is vital in protecting our community and often requires them to undertake hazardous work in extremely demanding conditions.
“Our firefighters deserve the best possible training to prepare them for such work and this facility will offer exactly that for many years to come.”
The fire service training centre has been at Wattisham since 2011 and occupies a 17-acre site that previously housed the Bloodhound missile system from the Cold War.
The training centre is used throughout the year for a wide range of training requirements which include refresher and ongoing assessments by all staff.
Council fears new energy proposals will harm Suffolk’s coastline
Suffolk County Council is disappointed to learn that the LionLink interconnector project from National Grid Ventures has identified an alternative landfall at Walberswick, with cable routing making its way to the north of Southwold.
The Council will study the details of the new proposals, and will prepare its response to the National Grid’s second public consultation, which opens on 8 September.
Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Environment, said:
“I'm deeply disappointed that National Grid has chosen to consider such a lengthy and complex cable route. Particularly given the Council’s longstanding position that the array of projects coming forward in Suffolk should be properly coordinated.
“The impact of these proposals on communities in and around Southwold and Walberswick could be stark and I’m concerned that coordinating this project with schemes further to the south seems to have been so readily dismissed.
“The large amount of infrastructure and lack of coordination will spread the impact much more widely across Suffolk's communities and landscapes, including in the nationally important Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.”
The Lionlink project aims to connect multiple offshore wind farms in the North Sea, instead of individual wind farms connecting one by one to the shore. The project is a joint venture between the UK and the Netherlands, supplying energy to both countries.
Cllr Rout continues:
“If National Grid Ventures are to bring this project ashore in Suffolk, they must fully justify why far less harmful alternatives have not been fully considered and why they are not working with other projects in the area.”
“We welcome that some points like traffic concerns have been addressed from the previous consultation, and that coordination with other projects is being explored. But the project must go much further if it is serious about working with other energy developers.
“The Council will need to consider the full proposals when they are published and, as ever, if it proceeds we will be insisting the developer does everything they can to minimise the impact on communities along Suffolk's coast.”
The non-statutory consultation on National Grid Venture’s LionLink project will commence on the 8 September 2023, and will remain open until 3 November 2023.
Inflation, SEND school transport and care costs contribute to council’s predicted overspend
Inflation, school transport for children with SEND, and looking after children in care are the main factors for SCC forecasting to spend £22.3m over its £688.1m budget for this year.
This is a similar story for many councils across the country, due to higher demand for their services, inflation remaining higher than expected for longer, and interest rates rising to levels not forecast by financial markets.
Recent research by the County Councils Network suggests that England’s largest councils will need to make at least £1bn in savings to balance their current 2023/24 budgets.
A BBC investigation also reported that councils expect to be £5.2bn short of balancing budgets by April 2026, the average council facing a £33m predicted deficit by 2025-26.
Suffolk County Council projects a 4% overspend (£29.3m), to be partially offset by an additional Section 31 grant from Government, and additional income from the pooling of business rates with the district and borough councils in Suffolk, totalling £7m.
Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Finance and Environment, said:
“Despite being able to publish a balanced budget in February, we are already having to spend more than we anticipated this year.
“We set this year’s budget during a period of highly uncertain economic conditions. Even although the country is now starting to see price rises slowing and energy costs beginning to drop we are still suffering the cost impacts of various global shocks - in particular COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine.
“We are experiencing unexpectedly high demands on certain services, meaning some are spending disproportionately more than others. For example, costs for school transport and children in care make up two-thirds of the total overspend.”
Details of the main areas of overspend are:
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School transport - forecast to overspend by £11.4m (39% of the overspend), with £8.3m of this being travel costs for children with special education needs and disabilities (SEND). This is largely due to more children with SEND needs, transport operators being in limited supply, and rising costs from those operators who are also feeling the impacts of inflation, especially fuel costs.
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Children in care - forecast to overspend by £8.2m (28% of the overspend). The council has a responsibility to provide care for children and young people under the age of 18. Some of these have incredibly complex needs requiring 24-hour care from multiple carers. There is currently an unexpectedly higher number of children requiring this support, with this costing an average of £22,700 per week, per child.
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Adult care services - forecast to overspend by £3.5m (12% of the overspend) for purchasing care, due to increases in demand, and staffing costs in the sector. The fees paid for residential and nursing placements remain high with 64% of new residential and nursing packages being above the published rate of £806 per week, with some specialist packages being over £1,500 per week.
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Inflation - inflation and interest rates have been higher than experienced in a generation, with the legacy of COVID-19 continuing to have a significant impact of on various services. As an example, there is an estimated £3.0m (10% of the overspend) pressure as pay settlements continue to be above historical norms as inflation has remained stubbornly high during 2023 so far. High interest rates mean it has been more costly than anticipated to borrow money, which the council does to help fund big projects, such as upgrading highways, maintaining schools or developing household recycling centres.
In addition to the net overspend of £22.3m from this main budget, the council is forecasting an overspend of £15.8m against its £256.5m budget from the Dedicated Schools Grant and Pupil Premium Grant. This is money from Government specifically to fund schools and services for pupils. This overspend comes solely from resources spent on Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) provision, not including school transport. Suffolk, like many other local authorities, is seeing a continuous increase in demand which is not being met by the same level of increase in funding.
Despite these challenges, council departments continue to make savings. This year’s budget identified £25.1m of savings to be made, and the latest figures show that £20m of this is projected to be achieved.
Councillor Richard Rout continues:
“Our officers continue to do great work for Suffolk residents, including providing complex levels of support to those most in need, whilst making savings.
“But with these increasing demands and costs, we are seeing councils around the country having to reduce services and put spending freezes in place, so that they can balance their budgets for this year. Unfortunately, we must now have these discussions too.
“For many years, we have made savings through our transformation programmes – essentially ways of working smarter and leaner whilst still delivering services. We have also built up an appropriate level of reserves, meaning we have savings which we are able to call upon now.
“But this is not sustainable and now that Cabinet has been presented with the council’s first financial report for this year, we will work with directors to help reduce this predicted overspend.”
The Cabinet at Suffolk County Council will discuss the Q1 2023-24 Revenue Budget paper, at its meeting on 12 September 2023. Cabinet papers are published on the Suffolk County Council website.
Councils unite against National Grid pylon proposals
In a joint letter to National Grid, the leaders of the three councils address the extensive impact on landscapes and local communities that the scheme would bring.
They also highlight that an offshore solution has not been sufficiently investigated, and the opportunities that this could bring to co-ordinate with other large-scale energy projects off the region’s coast.
The Norwich to Tilbury project would see 114 miles of electricity pylons weave their way through the three counties. Only a small percentage of this cabling would go underground, an issue which the councils also raise, stating that more would be needed particularly in the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and near Diss and the Waveney Valley.
Councillor Kevin Bentley, Leader of Essex County Council, said:
We have taken to writing at this time, as there is still the opportunity to explore all options and solutions for a development of this scale. We all support the collective effort to tackle climate change, work towards net zero and to create a secure future for the country’s energy. But there are so many elements of this proposal which just do not go far enough.
Councillor Kay Mason Billig, Leader of Norfolk County Council, said:
The impact that this scheme would have should not be underestimated, particularly on the region’s unique, designated landscapes and the many communities that will be affected. We all agree that studies into an offshore solution have not been appropriately explored, this is a viable option which we feel has been dismissed too readily.
Councillor Matthew Hicks, Leader of Suffolk County Council, said:
Should proposals for the project progress, and further consultations take place, we would expect National Grid to invest a lot more time and effort in working with our local communities. These large schemes can be guilty of doing the minimum necessary when they should be working with local people and businesses as much as possible, who know the area and can help find the best solutions, should the project go ahead.
National Grid held a second, non-statutory consultation, which closed on 21 August 2023. It is expected that a statutory consultation will take place in 2024.
New highways services arrive in Suffolk as multi-million-pound partnership goes live
The new contract, which is worth in the region of £800 million - £1 billion, will deliver highway projects and improvements across Suffolk for up to 20 years, including maintaining roads, pavements and rights of way, improving drainage, hedge trimming, construction of new road schemes, snow-clearing and gritting and much more.
Milestone Infrastructure, part of M Group Services, was awarded Suffolk’s new highways services contract back in February and since then has been working with Suffolk County Council to mobilise the new contract ahead of it commencing on 1 October.
When seeking a new highways partner, the county council wanted a keener focus on