Winter 2011 District Life - Issue 42 Float away into a magical world

Float away into
a magical world
this Christmas
Issue 42
Winter 2011

Cover story
The Fairy Godmother is ready to
welcome you to the new Marlowe
Theatre this winter. Photo by Tim
Stubbings.
Float away into
a magical world
this Christmas
Issue 42
Winter 2011
Back issues
Can be viewed online at
www.districtlife.co.uk.
Contacts
Editor
Rob Davies
Phone 01227 862 050
Email robert.davies@
canterbury.gov.uk
Additional editorial
Steve James
Phone 01227 862 060
Email steve.james@
canterbury.gov.uk
Advertising
Sarah Cooper
Phone 01227 862 423
Email sarah.cooper@
canterbury.gov.uk
Design
Anne Vickery
Phone 01227 862 282
Email anne.vickery@
canterbury.gov.uk
Printed on environmentally
friendly paper. Please
recycle once you have finished
with this publication.
Find us on Facebook
District Life is the quarterly news magazine for residents and businesses in the Canterbury district. Published
by Canterbury City Council with the support of paid advertising. Print by Polestar Colchester. District Life and
Canterbury City Council accept no responsibility for loss or damage, however caused, to any material
submitted for publication. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior
permission of the publishers.
Published in November 2011
Canterbury City
Council supports
Fairtrade and
local produce
P5 P9 P13
Welcome
from the Editor
It’s been a bit like London buses at the council recently – no sooner
do you finish one major scheme than another one reaches
completion straight after!
Two of our biggest projects – the Marlowe Theatre and sports
facilities in Herne Bay – have both come to a conclusion in the last
couple of months.
And with a third one – the new Beaney – making good progress
towards an opening next summer, there’s plenty of good news
around at the moment.
You can find out more about all of these projects in this edition.
Although budget savings mean we only produce District Life
twice a year now, it’s important to us that we keep communicating
with local people.
That’s why you can now find us on Facebook at www.facebook.
com/canterburycitycouncil, and sign up for our monthly
e-newsletter, which we send straight to your inbox, on our website.
Rob Davies
Editor
Featured articles
Page
Cinderella returns to the
Marlowe 9
A safe night out in
Canterbury 10
Olympic torch to visit the
district 11
Herne Bay is blooming
brilliant 13
Baptism of fire for new
councillors 24 and 25
Regular features
News round-up starts 4
Museum events 7
Competition for Marlowe
Theatre tickets 9
You can also get this publication on CD, in Braille or in large print. Please phone
Rob Davies on 01227 862 050 or email robert.davies@canterbury.gov.uk.
P29
3

Public views on the council’s draft budget
for 2012/13 can be made between now
and Thursday 22 December.
The plans were published in November and
set out proposed savings and a strategy for
balancing the books over the next four years.
The budget is set against a backdrop of a
cut in central government funding of around
28 per cent over four years, with the majority
coming in the first two years.
4
Leader’s column
It is that time
of year again
when my
administration
publishes
its budget
proposals for
the forthcoming
financial year.
We have been saying this for the last
few years now, but once again the figures
are looking very tight as local government
continues to make a significant contribution
to addressing the nation’s financial
problems.
However, I’m very pleased to be able to
put forward a draft budget that protects
vital local services. This is as a direct result of
good money management in previous years,
as well as some tough decisions already
taken, and means we find ourselves in a
better position than many other councils.
There are some proposed increases in
Council publishes draft budget
Car park charges are proposed to rise
charges, such as for car parking and other
services, and I know that these may not be
popular.
But my administration feels now is the
right time to be moving towards ‘user pays’,
where we charge more for services that are
only used by a small proportion of residents
so that the cost doesn’t fall mainly on the
general taxpayer.
During our Corporate Plan consultation
earlier in the year, this approach was
endorsed by residents. I believe it is only
right that people who use a service should
be the ones who predominantly pay for it.
The draft proposals also include a
council tax increase of 2.5 per cent, but the
government is offering us a grant to cover
the amount this would raise in return for no
rise in council tax. We are currently looking
at this option.
There is plenty of good news too,
because my administration is continuing
with its ambitious programme of major
improvement projects.
Priorities for the council have been to focus
on the ambitions set out in its Corporate Plan,
protect the services it is legally required to
provide, and review all its services with a view
to delivering a good quality of service for the
customer at 20 per cent less cost.
Its approach also involves moving to more
of a ‘user pays’ approach to funding services,
and to gradually reduce the number of
buildings it delivers services from.
With the new Marlowe and Herne Bay’s
sports facilities now complete, we turn
our attention to the redevelopment of
the whole Kingsmead site, the Herne Bay
Central Development Area and the Beaney.
We also remain committed to finding a
new home for Canterbury City Football
Club.
And we recently received the news that
we are likely to get back all of the £2 million
we had invested in one of the failed Icelandic
banks, following an Icelandic Supreme
Court ruling. Local councils worked together
to achieve this outcome, which is very
welcome.
As usual, the views of residents will play
an important role as we go through the
budget setting process before making a
final decision in February, so please take the
time to visit our website and tell us what you
think.
Cllr John Gilbey, Leader,
Canterbury City Council
Parking charges are proposed to rise by
around 10 per cent, with a 10 pence per hour
increase in Canterbury’s central premium,
central and outer car parks and rises in prices
in the coastal towns. Park and ride is staying
at £2.50 to encourage more use of the 1,800
spaces available.
The visitor information service in
Canterbury could move from its current
home in Sun Street to the new Beaney Art
Museum and Library in the High Street once
development work is complete.
And the council subsidy for the Marlowe
Theatre will reduce from around £400,000 at
the moment to zero by 2014/15.
Further savings are being found by sharing
services such as revenues and benefits, ICT
and customer services with other east Kent
councils, and significant underspends from
the last two financial years are being used to
help balance next year’s budget.
The draft budget can be viewed on the
council’s website at www.canterbury.gov.
uk. Comments can be made by emailing
policy@canterbury.gov.uk or writing to
Policy and Improvement, Canterbury City
Council, Military Road, Canterbury, Kent,
CT1 1YW.

Top notch sports facilities for Herne Bay
Herne Bay now has some of the best
sports facilities anywhere in the
county following the formal opening
of a new arena at Herne Bay High
School and an extension to Herons
Leisure Centre.
The state-of-the-art facilities have
replaced those at the Pier Pavilion,
which in turn is in the process of being
demolished to give a new lease of life
to the pier.
The Bay Sports Arena is part of a
wider development of the sports
facilities at Herne Bay High School,
which also includes a new four court
sports hall and a gymnastics hall.
The arena is suitable for international
roller hockey, football, badminton,
basketball, volleyball, bowls, public
roller skating and a host of other sports.
An adjacent area houses retractable
tiered seating, skate hire and skate
shop, new changing rooms and
refreshment provision.
Canterbury City Council, Kent County
Council and Herne Bay High School
worked in partnership to develop the
venue, which is run by Active Life. The
Indoor Bowling Club has use of the
arena during the mornings for most of
the year, and it is open to the wider
public out of school hours. The arena
has been built so that public access is
separate from the school’s access.
At Herons Leisure Centre, the
building has been extended to
accommodate a new modern gym
packed with the latest equipment,
together with two studios – one for
mind and body and the other as a
fitness and dance studio. These sit
alongside the existing swimming pool.
The two projects represent a total
investment in Herne Bay’s sports
facilities of more than £4 million.
Building work at the arena was carried
out by Provian, and the extension at
Herons was built by Cosmur.
Olympic rower and former Herne Bay
High School pupil Dan Ritchie was
there to support the opening of both
the arena and the extended Herons,
where he performed a rowing
demonstration.
Meanwhile, the demolition of the Pier
Pavilion is underway.
Specialist contractors are on site to
remove asbestos in the building, and
this work is expected to last into the
new year.
5

Famous artists, writers’
rooms and a real
Roman Christmas!
Visit your local museums in
Canterbury, Herne Bay and
Whitstable this winter for an
exciting programme of great
value exhibitions, talks and
creative activities. There’s
something for everyone…
Writers’ rooms: exhibition
of photographs by
Eamonn McCabe
Until spring 2012
Herne Bay Museum and Gallery
Intimate portraits of the rooms
that famous writers work in, by
the award-winning Guardian
photographer and former picture
editor. Included in museum
entry charge. All ages.
Strangely familiar
exhibition
Until spring 2012
Whitstable Museum and
Gallery
See Philip Cox’s brilliant creations
– famous artists, life-sized in
papier mâché with a twist!
Included in museum entry
charge. All ages.
Bagpuss at the
Gulbenkian
6 to 20 December
Christmas show and
finger puppet workshops
See Canterbury’s favourite cat,
the loveable furry Bagpuss, on
stage in a beautiful Christmas
show at the Gulbenkian Theatre.
With Bagpuss mouse finger
puppet activities between shows
on Saturday 10 and 17 and
Sunday 18 December. Visit
www.thegulbenkian.co.uk.
Saturnalia – the Roman
version of Christmas
Family trail and hands-on
activities
17 December 2011 to 2 January
2012, 10am to 5pm
Canterbury Roman Museum
Sacrifices, presents, games and a
big banquet formed the basis of
the popular Roman festival of
Saturnalia. Take part in fun,
hands-on activities, try on
colourful costumes and make a
pileus or freedman’s hat.
Included in standard museum
entry price. All children go free.
All ages.
Bagpuss’ birthday party
Family activity day
Saturday 18 February 2012,
1pm to 4pm
Canterbury Heritage Museum
Meet Bagpuss, Britain’s best-loved
cat, and celebrate his birthday
with fun activities including
storytelling, animation and craft
activities. With a special guest
appearances by co-creator Peter
Firmin. Included in standard
museum entry price. Special
entry price for Canterbury
District Residents Card holders –
£3 adults, £2 concessions. All
children go free. All ages.
www.canterbury-museums.co.uk for details of opening
times, locations and telephone numbers.
Wheelchair access available. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Information is correct at time of printing but may change. Please check before making a special visit.
Mini museum explorers
For under fives and their carers
Enjoy songs and stories, investigate amazing objects and get creative
with a fun art activity. £3 per child, accompanying adults free. All
sessions run 10.30am to 11.30am. Materials and refreshments
provided.
Canterbury Heritage Museum
Thursday 8 December Exploring Texture
Thursday 12 January Fossils and Dinosaurs
Thursday 9 February Amazing Animals
Advance booking 01227 475 202
Herne Bay Museum
Tuesday 20 December Rupert and the Reindeer
Tuesday 14 February We love Bagpuss
Advance booking 01227 367 368
Whitstable Museum
Wednesday 21 December Rupert and Santa
Wednesday 15 February Fossils and Dinosaurs
Advance booking 01227 276 998
Museum parties
Looking for something
different this year for your
child’s birthday?
Canterbury Heritage Museum
offers a wide range of fun and
educational party themes for you
to choose from.
The price is £15 per head or
minimum £150 including party
games, an interactive museum
session and a locally sourced
lunch.
The maximum number of
children is 20 and the party lasts
for two hours.
To find out more call Katie
Ginger on 01227 378 122 or
email her on katie.ginger@
canterbury.gov.uk.
Canterbury Roman
Museum
Butchery Lane, CT1 2JR
Phone 01227 785 575
Daily 10am to 5pm
Herne Bay Museum
and Gallery
William Street, CT6 5EJ
Phone 01227 367 368
Daily 10am to 4pm
Canterbury Heritage
Museum
Stour Street, CT1 2NR
Phone 01227 475 202
Daily 10am to 5pm
Whitstable Museum
and Gallery
Oxford Street, CT5 1DB
Phone 01227 276 998
Daily 10am to 4pm
Free entry (except for some special
events) for Canterbury City Council
Residents Card holders. If you don’t
have a Residents Card, come in and
sign up to receive free entry today!
7

Pantomime and so much more!
A spectacular new theatre means a spectacular new pantomime – and Canterbury has both this year!
The Marlowe Theatre opened in October
following a £25.6 million redevelopment and
is already attracting an exciting mixture of
musicals, drama, concerts, dance and opera –
and, of course, pantomime!
Knowing that the Marlowe opening was
imminent, production company Evolution has
been saving the story of Cinderella for a few
years.
Producer Paul Hendy said: “It is the best
pantomime of them all so it is fitting that it is the
first in the new theatre. At the Marlowe, we have
built a reputation for producing incredibly
spectacular pantomimes and this year we are also
planning a few extra treats. There will be a brand
new, stunning snowy set and a whole host of
special effects.”
Three of television’s biggest, brightest and
most talented stars will be appearing in
Cinderella: John Partridge (Christian in
EastEnders), Stephen Mulhern (entertainer and
presenter of Magic Numbers and Britain’s Got
More Talent), and comedy actress Sue Devaney
(dinnerladies, Casualty).
John will be taking on the role of Prince
Charming, Stephen – who was hugely popular
when he appeared in two pantomimes at the old
Marlowe – will be playing Buttons, and Sue is the
Fairy Godmother.
Ben Roddy, who made such an impression as
Smee in Peter Pan, is Dandini, and Cinderella will
be played by Kate Quinnell. Sion Tudor Owen is
Baron Hardup.
Cinderella is at The Marlowe Theatre from now
until Sunday 22 January 2012.
Highlights in the following months include the
Russian Ice Stars’ Peter Pan on Ice, a spectacular
ice-dance production of JM Barrie’s timeless tale
about the boy who never grew up (Tuesday 31
January to Sunday 5 February 2012).
The world premiere of a new work by one of
Competition!
Above: this year’s panto cast, below: Peter Pan on ice, bottom: Richard Alston’s A Ceremony of Carols.
this country’s most influential choreographers is
on Wednesday 8 and Thursday 9 February 2012.
Richard Alston’s A Ceremony of Carols is
choreographed to Benjamin Britten’s masterpiece
for boys’ voices and harp. The music will be sung
live by Canterbury Cathedral Choir, conducted by
David Flood.
One-nighters include the Classical Opera
Company’s Bella Mia Fiamma: A Mozart Birthday
Concert (Thursday 26 January 2012), children’s
favourite Bob The Builder (Saturday 28 January
2012), and The Kings of Swing, with tributes to
Swing greats including Frank Sinatra and Tony
Bennett (Friday 10 February 2012).
To book tickets, call 01227 787 787 or go to
www.marlowetheatre.com.
• Turn to pages 16 and 17 to read about the
reopening of the Marlowe Theatre.
District Life is offering one lucky reader and three guests the chance to see Cinderella at the
Marlowe Theatre.
The tickets are for the 7pm performance on Friday 13 January 2012. To enter, simply answer the
following question:
Cinderella is Stephen Mulhern’s third panto at the Marlowe. Name one of the other two
he has starred in.
Send your answer to District Life competition, Communications, Canterbury City Council,
Military Road, Canterbury, CT1 1YW by Thursday 15 December, including your name, address
and telephone number.
9

10
Purple Flag for city centre
Canterbury city centre has
been awarded the prestigious
‘Purple Flag’ in recognition of
the management of its night
time economy.
The national accreditation
has been given by the
Association of Town Centre
Management (ATCM), working
alongside the Purple Flag
Advisory Committee.
Canterbury’s Purple Flag
recognition followed the work
carried out by a partnership
team comprising the city
council, Canterbury City
Partnership and other city
groups and businesses.
Purple Flag aims to raise
standards and improve the
quality of the UK’s towns and
cities at night. Entertainment
areas that receive a Purple Flag
are those that offer a better
evening experience for visitors.
Just as Blue Flag is an
indicator of a good beach,
Purple Flag is set to be the
indicator of where to go for a
good night out, and will bring
positive publicity for successful
town and city centres.
Canterbury was assessed on
a range of criteria including
appeal, attractiveness,
cleanliness, personal safety and
culture, and was particularly
praised for the effectiveness of
partnership working in
delivering a successful night
time economy.
Chief Executive of the ATCM,
Martin Blackwell, said: “It’s a
real pleasure to be awarding
Purple Flag status to
Canterbury. The partnership
has worked extremely hard to
develop and improve the
evening economy and has
been justly rewarded.
“It demonstrates that our
towns and cities at night can be
places that are clean and safe,
with great public spaces,
cultural attractions and unique
identities.”
Get your tickets for the
Lord Mayor’s Ball
The Lord Mayor of Canterbury’s Annual Ball takes place at the
new reception venue at Canterbury College on Saturday 25
February 2012 from 6.45pm.
Tickets cost £50 and include a glass of bubbly, kindly provided
by Shepherd Neame, during the reception and half a bottle of fine
wine per person for the three course dinner.
The renowned Corps of Drums of the Prince of Wales’s Royal
Regiment will be performing their fantastic ‘stick beating display’,
while popular local band Maize will also play.
It’s a black tie event with carriages at 11.30pm. Free parking will
be available on site.
For more information or to book tickets, contact Marsha
Whiteway or Fiona Balchin on 01227 862 080 or email marsha.
whiteway@canterbury.gov.uk or fiona.balchin@canterbury.gov.uk.
Tickets are also available for the annual Sheriff’s Shrievalty
Association Charity Dinner in aid of Catching Lives and the Children’s
Society garden project.
It takes place at the Marine Hotel in Tankerton on Friday 17 February
2012. Tickets cost £25 and include a three course dinner with menu
choices, wine and coffee.
To book, contact Cllr Charlotte MacCaul on 01227 764 714 or Cllr
Gillian Reuby on 01227 366 081.
Join our e-panel and give us your views
The council is on the lookout for residents to join its new community
e-panel of local people it can consult on services and policies.
E-panel members will be consulted with by email only as a way of saving
the council money. This will complement the council’s existing
Community Panel, which this year celebrates its 10th birthday and has
more than 2,300 members.
The Community Panel and e-panel are used to help the council
understand the needs and views of local people. The results of surveys
are used to make decisions and improve the quality of council services.
The council is always looking for new volunteers to join so that it can
hear a variety of dierent opinions. Younger people would be particularly
welcomed as they are less represented on the panel than other age
groups. The only requirement is that they live in the Canterbury district.
To join the new e-panel or Community Panel, go to the council’s website
at www.canterbury.gov.uk/communitypanel. If you have any queries,
email community.panel@canterbury.gov.uk.

Olympic Flame is heading for Canterbury
Canterbury is to play an exciting role in
the build up to the London 2012 Olympics.
It was announced last month that the
city has been included on the route that the
Olympic Flame will take on its 70-day journey
around the UK.
The Flame will be in the district on the
afternoon of Thursday 19 July 2012, just eight
days before the opening ceremony of the
London Olympics.
Torchbearers will carry it through local
communities including Upstreet, Sturry,
Canterbury, Wincheap and Thanington. The
Flame will also stop in the Cathedral Precincts
for 10 minutes for a photo opportunity.
The route has been chosen by the London
Organising Committee of the Olympic Games
and the exact streets will be confirmed nearer
the time.
Housing advice
for young people
A new service is providing
advice for young people with
housing problems.
Every Wednesday afternoon
between 1pm and 4.30pm at the
council offices in Military Road,
Canterbury, a housing officer is
available to help 16 to 21-year
olds specifically.
Topics covered include where
to find rented accommodation,
how to claim benefits and how
to manage a budget.
The service is run by the city
council in partnership with
The council’s Head of Culture and
Enterprise, Janice McGuinness, said she
expected lots of people to come out and
welcome the Olympic Flame.
She added: “We saw it with the Tour de
France, when thousands of
residents and visitors flocked
to Canterbury, and I think it will
happen again with the Olympic
Flame. It’s the only chance most
people will get to see the Flame so
close-up.
“The council will be working
with other organisations to try
and make the most of the big day
and show off our sporting and
cultural offer.”
The Flame isn’t the only exciting
piece of local news regarding the
Stepahead Support. No
appointments are required and
all matters discussed are
confidential.
The council’s Head of Housing,
Community Safety and
Environment Services, Larissa
Laing, said: “If young people are
leaving home, there are lots of
things to think about and it can
be quite confusing.
“This new service gives local
young people the help they
need in a confidential and
relaxed setting.”
Some form of election – be it
for your MP, MEP or local
councillor – takes place most
years.
But to be able to vote, your
name has to be included on the
Register of Electors. The register
is compiled from voter
registration forms that were
sent to all householders in the
autumn. All British, Irish,
European Union or qualifying
Commonwealth citizens over
the age of 16 resident at each
address are able to be included
on the register.
If you have moved recently,
Olympics, because seven local sports stars are
hopeful of success at London 2012.
Find out who they are and how you can
give them your backing on page 21.
Make sure you
are able to vote
changed your name, just had
your 18th birthday or don’t
recall completing a voter
registration form, contact
Electoral Services straight away
so that we can check if you are
correctly registered to vote.
If you need any further
advice on registering to vote,
voting by post or proxy, or have
any general voting questions,
call the council’s Electoral
Services team on 01227 862
007, email electoral.services@
canterbury.gov.uk or call into
the council offices in Military
Road, Canterbury.
Keep in touch with what we’re up to!
All the latest council news is now available in two new
ways – on Facebook and in an e-newsletter.
The council’s Facebook page can be found at www.
facebook.com/canterburycitycouncil. Simply log on to
the page and click ‘like’ to start receiving updates.
Information on council activities and events is added each
day, so it’s a great way to find out what’s happening locally.
And a monthly e-newsletter was launched in November.
This is sent directly to people’s inboxes by email and
contains a round-up of council news and a look forward to
the month ahead.
To register to receive the e-newsletter, go to
www.canterbury.gov.uk and click on the link in the ‘latest
news’ section.
11

Beaney restoration work reaches a conclusion
The results of months of sensitive
restoration work to the façade of
Canterbury’s Beaney Art Museum and
Library are set to be unveiled.
The netting covering the front of the
building in the High Street is due to
come down imminently, and will reveal
a dramatic change and a clear contrast
between the old and the new.
Extensive work by the contractor on
the project, Wates Construction, followed
discovery of significant issues with the old
façade.
Wates’ Heritage Director Den Daley
says: “At first glance, the façade looked
very sound. It was only when we got
close up and began carrying out a full
investigation that the problems became
apparent.
“The timber had opened up and water
had got in behind, creating a fungal
decay known as wet rot. This created ideal
conditions for the death watch beetle to
thrive in and it had caused substantial
damage to the wood.”
One area of the façade particularly
ravaged by the beetle was one of the two
griffins – a legendary creature with the
body of a lion and the head and wings of
an eagle.
While the unaffected one remained
proudly in position throughout, the other
one was removed. An identical griffin was
then hand-carved from scratch and has
now been installed in its place.
And while the difference between the
12
two is marked, Den points out that this is
now the way of modern restoration.
He says: “We don’t disguise the fact that
restoration has taken place any more.
Instead we make it clear where it has
happened. There’s no artificial ageing, but
of course we make sure that the work is
done as sympathetically as possible.
“It can look dramatic and not
everybody understands the reasoning
behind it, but the new parts will age over
time. We use existing materials wherever
possible to make sure we achieve what
we call an ‘honest repair’.”
The Beaney, which is home to the city
council’s museum and art gallery and the
county council’s library, is in the middle of
a major redevelopment which will see the
building double in size.
Construction of the extension on part
of the former Orange Street car park is
progressing well and will help to provide
much more space for museum displays,
exhibitions and library services. The
Beaney is expected to open in summer
2012.
The project is costing around £13
million, of which £6.5 million is covered
by a grant from the Heritage Lottery
Fund (HLF). The HLF then contributed a
further £500,000 for the restoration of the
façade.
The city and county councils and the
former South East England Development
Agency are jointly funding the remainder
of the cost.
Griffins at the front of the Beaney
Conservation work has been painstaking The old meets the new
Photos by Tim Stubbings

Herne Bay strikes gold in Bloom competition
It was success all round for Herne Bay in
this year’s South and South East in Bloom
competition.
The town swept all before it, taking a gold
award and best in category in the large coastal
town section, as well as winning the Kent Life
award for the highest scoring entry in Kent.
And as if that wasn’t enough, Eddington
allotments won best allotment site in the
region, Herne School got gold in the Blooming
Schools competition and the Memorial Park
achieved a bronze award for best park, in the
first year it has been entered.
All in all then, not a bad crop of prizes, and
the Herne Bay in Bloom committee, made up
of local volunteers with support from the city
council and its environment contractor Serco,
was delighted with the success.
Town resident and business owner Colleen
Ashwin-Kean has coordinated the campaign
since 2005.
She said: “A lot of hard work and dedication
goes into the bid each year and it has become
a year round project for us now. We’re getting
increasing support from businesses, not only
through sponsorship but also by adopting
planters and watering and caring for them.”
Education also plays an important role.
Many local schools enter their own
competition and each year one lucky pupil
sees their design turned into a flower bed on
the seafront.
It was smiles all the way when
14-year-old Hilary Roberts from
Chestfield spent the day being the
Lord Mayor of Canterbury.
Hilary, who attends Whitstable
Community College, won the
council’s annual competition to find
a young person to take up the civic
reins and attended functions across
the district.
As well as opening the Autumn
Scarecrow Festival at Whitstable
Castle, she took delivery on behalf
of the council of a bench donated
But the committee won’t be resting on its
laurels after such a good year. There are plans
to form a Friends of Herne Bay in Bloom group
and to work more closely with existing
community groups such as the Friends of the
Memorial Park. The town has also been
nominated to participate in Britain in Bloom
next year.
The Herne Bay in Bloom committee with their certificates
by Herne Bay Model Boat Club and
went behind the scenes at the Dogs
Trust in Chestfield.
And then to round the day off,
Hilary got to try on the Lord Mayor’s
robes and enjoy tea and cake at
Tower House.
To win the competition, Hilary
had to say what she would do if she
was Lord Mayor for the day.
In her entry, she said she would:
“Give charities £100 each, help the
homeless, help people that are on
drugs and put villains in prison.”
Colleen added: “We always welcome new
ideas and supporters and you do not
necessarily have to be a gardener to help us –
plenty of enthusiasm, passion and
commitment is just as useful!”
If you can volunteer your time and skills,
contact Colleen on 01227 365 014 or email
herne_bayinbloom@live.co.uk.
Meet the new Lord Mayor!
13

16
After two years of
closure, Canterbury’s
fabulous new Marlowe
Theatre reopened in
October to widespread
acclaim and extensive
local and national
publicity.
It’s curtain up on the
new Marlowe!
A Royal Gala Night
attended by TRH The Earl and
Countess of Wessex was
followed by a fun packed
family weekend with music,
dance and street theatre,
along with tours of the new
theatre.
The opening gala featured
a concert by the theatre’s
resident Philharmonia
Orchestra, conducted by
David Parry, with a selection
of orchestral and operatic
masterpieces performed by
Sir John Tomlinson (bass) and
Carmen Giannattasio
(soprano).
The Earl of Wessex, who is
the Royal Patron of the New
Marlowe Theatre
Development Trust, was
joined by an invited audience
and Marlowe Friends who
had won their tickets by
ballot, packing the
1200-seater auditorium.
The Earl told the audience:
“It has been an absolute
pleasure and delight to have
served as a Patron on this
appeal and it has been a
fantastic journey. I just want
to thank everyone who
supported it. You’ve now got
this fantastic theatre and I
hope you will use it and
come back and support it
time and time again.”
For Theatre Director Mark
Everett, it was the
culmination of years of hard
work and planning, and he
was understandably
delighted.
He said: “The opening gala
was a huge success and was
one of the smoothest run
events I have ever
experienced in a theatre.
Above all, it was great to see
1,200 happy and smiling
people enjoying the Earl and
Countess of Wessex’s

presence in our new theatre.
What a fantastic way to
launch a new and exciting
theatrical journey for
Canterbury.”
And no sooner had the
dust settled on a memorable
opening night, than Mark and
his team were preparing for
three days of events and
activities at the family
weekend.
Children flocked to see one
of their heroes, Rastamouse,
performing on stage with his
friends, and there were arts
and acting workshops from a
number of organisations
including the Performing Arts
Network Kent, Wide Eyed
Theatre Company and the
Marlowe Youth Theatre.
Music came from bands
including The Coal Porters
and The Dualers, and there
was also a Grease ‘flashmob’
and a question and answer
session with Marlowe staff.
And on the same weekend,
Stephen Merchant and Pam
Ayres were the stars giving
the first public performances
in the main auditorium.
After seven years of
planning, dating back to
Canterbury’s European
Capital of Culture bid, work
started in spring 2009 when
the old theatre was
demolished. Gradually, the
new Marlowe took shape on
an extended site including
the former Friars Motors
garage.
The finished article features
a stunning main auditorium
set over three levels with an
orchestra pit that can
accommodate up to 80
musicians, enabling the
Marlowe to stage world-class
music, theatre and dance. A
second space, the Marlowe
Studio, is perfect for smaller
Photos by Tim Stubbings and Ian Pollen
performances and theatre
productions.
The £25.6 million new
theatre was made possible
through a mix of public and
private funding, with £17
million from Canterbury City
Council and further support
from Kent County Council
and the former South East
England Development
Agency.
A major fundraising
campaign was set up by The
New Marlowe Theatre
Development Trust and raised
£4.2 million towards the total
cost of the project.
17

Overview and Scrutiny
looks forward to a busy 2012
What are Overview
and Scrutiny?
The roles of Overview and Scrutiny are to
inform and challenge the Executive to
make sure the council is run in an
effective and efficient way and that the
decisions it takes are the right ones.
18
Scrutiny reviews
Part of the Scrutiny Committee’s role is to
commission a varied programme of scrutiny
reviews each year. We always welcome your
views and ideas on the topics we are
reviewing now or what you think scrutiny
should look at in the near future. If you have
an idea, please let us know what it is. Our
contact details are on the opposite page.
New and current scrutiny reviews
The impact of High Speed 1
You have asked us to investigate the impact of the High Speed 1 rail service
since its introduction in 2009. The review is looking at the effects of the
High Speed service on the ‘classic’ service to the coastal towns. The panel
will also assess the wider economic impact of High Speed 1 on the area
around Canterbury West railway station, including parking and road users.
New council, new Overview and Scrutiny
Following the local elections in May we have many new councillors involved in Overview
and Scrutiny. One of the councillors’ first tasks was to review and simplify how we carry
out the function. As a result we now have two main committees:
The Overview Committee is chaired by Councillor Harry Cragg. This committee looks at
upcoming decisions which could be enhanced by member oversight.
The Scrutiny Committee, pictured below, is chaired by Councillor Alex Perkins. This committee
is primarily responsible for managing the scrutiny review programme. It can also investigate
crime and disorder and health matters and Executive decisions once they have been taken.
Homelessness
The panel’s task is to make sure that Canterbury district’s priorities
for reducing and preventing homelessness are clearly identified.
The panel will consider how emerging local and national issues
such as the housing market in Canterbury and changes to the
housing benefit system could impact on homelessness.

Reviews from the past year
Litter and fly-tipping
Residents asked us to look at
how the council could improve
its approach towards the serious
problems of litter and fly-tipping
which are of great expense to the
tax payer.
Role and provision of councilowned
local leisure facilities
This review was tasked with
analysing the leisure facilities
owned by the council to establish
the most appropriate governance
and financial arrangements to
meet our leisure objectives.
The panel assessed the
council’s role in delivering leisure
and how it complements private
East Kent maternity
services
The NHS is carrying out a review
of maternity services in east Kent.
A formal consultation document
setting out the options available
for the maternity services has
been published. A health scrutiny
panel will respond to this
consultation on behalf of the
council.
The panel made a number of
recommendations including the
trial of communal waste areas for
housing with limited storage
space for bins. This trial is about
to get underway.
sector provision across the
district.
The panel recommended that
the council should continue to
support indoor leisure provision
locally.
It also set out a way forward to
develop a leisure model over the
next few years.
Scrutiny
online
If you want to find out more
about overview and scrutiny
and how to get involved
please visit our website:
www.scrutiny.canterbury.
gov.uk.
The website has all the
latest information about what
is being reviewed and when.
You can suggest a review and
access all our past reviews.
How to get involved
Scrutiny councillors want to make sure the issues they look at
matter to you! The Scrutiny Committee commissions review panels
to take either a short or in-depth look at issues to see if the council
can do anything about them. Please let us know what your
concerns are.
We will assess all suggestions using the following criteria:
• It affects a group of people living within the Canterbury
district
• It relates to a council service or partner that the council has
the power to scrutinise, such as Kent County Council or
Kent Police
• It is not an individual complaint
• It has not been subject to a scrutiny review in the last three
years.
If you have a suggestion, please complete this form and send it
to Policy and Improvement Division, Canterbury City Council,
Freepost 41, Military Road, Canterbury, CT1 1BR. You can also
complete the form online by visiting our website
www.scrutiny.canterbury.gov.uk.
If you have any questions, contact Scrutiny and Improvement
Officer Charlotte Hammersley on 01227 862 332 or
email charlotte.hammersley@canterbury.gov.uk.
A Scrutiny Panel should look at:
Because:
Contact details (not compulsory but it will help us keep you
updated on the progress of your suggestion)
19

Take the Gold
Challenge in 2012 Sports stars are
As we all know, next year is an Olympics year. If ever there was a
time to be inspired to get active, it must surely be the event
dubbed the greatest show on earth.
And now there’s an opportunity to try an Olympic or Paralympic
sport while raising money for charity at the same time.
It’s called the Gold Challenge, and you can join thousands of people
across the country in making a difference while having lots of fun.
There are three challenges to have a go at and you can do them as a
team, on your own or with friends or family – in fact, any way you like!
For more information, log on to www.goldchallenge.org.
Sports events in 2012
Two big sports events return to
the district in the early part of
next year.
The Sport Relief Mile takes
place at the University of Kent on
Sunday 25 March 2012. You can
run a one, three or six mile route
and raise money at the same
time. Sign up is at www.
sportrelief.com.
And if you want to get
prepared, a new beginners’
running course has been set up
by local club Jelly Legs in
Canterbury, starting on 7 and 9
February. Visit www.jelly-legs.
co.uk for more details.
Then in April it’s time for the
Big Splash, taking place at all the
council-owned swimming pools
in the district. Swimmers will be
provided with a personal
challenge, a goal to train for and
great causes to support.
Organisers hope it will be the
biggest swimathon weekend ever
staged and you can get involved
by signing up at http://rfi.
swimathon.org. Big Splash runs
between 27 and 29 April 2012.
And don’t forget you can get
more information on all local
sporting events and clubs by
logging onto the Active
Canterbury website at
www.activecanterbury.org.
Clockwise, from top left: Dan Ritchie, Harriett Yea, Nathan Milgate, Keziah Gore, Jen Wilson,
Helen Sole and Susannah Townsend
going for gold
An amazing seven athletes from
the district could be in line for
glory at the London 2012
Olympics and Paralympics.
And to mark this potential
success, the council has launched a
campaign to raise the athletes’
profiles and help them achieve
sponsorship, and encourage more
local people to get active.
The Olympic hopefuls are
Harriett Yea (basketball), Dan
Ritchie (rowing), Keziah Gore
(rhythmic gymnastics) and
Susannah Townsend and Jen
Wilson (both hockey), and the
Paralympic hopefuls are Helen Sole
(sitting volleyball) and Nathan
Milgate (target shooting).
They were either born in or train
and compete in the Canterbury
district and are in line to take part
in the Games next year.
A1 size images of each athlete
pictured against the backdrop of
one of the district’s iconic
locations, such as Canterbury
Cathedral, St Augustine’s Abbey
and Reculver Towers, are being
placed at high profile sites in the
city and town centres for several
weeks at a time up until next
summer.
So far, one athlete has received
sponsorship from a local
organisation and others are
believed to be in discussions.
The council’s Sports
Development Officer, Giles Seaford,
said: “Some entire counties have
fewer athletes in the running for
the Olympic and Paralympic
Games than we do in just our
district, so it’s a great achievement.
“By promoting them and raising
their profile, we hope young
people will be inspired to follow in
their footsteps, because they are
excellent role models. And if we
can get our stars some sponsorship
as well, that would be a real bonus.”
Profiles of the athletes are online
at www.activecanterbury.org. If
you would like to sponsor one of
our Olympic and Paralympic
hopefuls, call Giles on 01227 862
524 or email giles.seaford@
canterbury.gov.uk.
21

Summary of accounts
Canterbury City Council:
Summary of accounts for year
ending 31 March 2011
Our accounts show you how we are managing
the money we receive to provide services to
residents and visitors and to look after our
environment.
The full and audited Statement of Accounts
is prepared using proper accounting practice.
The style and content can be difficult to follow
if you are not an accountant. This summary
gives the key information in a simpler and more
meaningful way and some modifications have
been made in order to do this.
Income and expenditure
Our Revenue account shows the cost of services
for the year and where the money came from to
pay for them.
22
** Revenue Support grant
£1,678,000, contribution from the
Non-domestic Rate pool £11,553,000,
area based grant £79,000
What we spent
Pie chart 1 shows the net expenditure
for each of the main service areas (see
number 1 in table 1) as a percentage of
the council’s total expenditure.
Where the money came from
Pie chart 2 shows the income from
grants and Council Tax as a percentage
of the total (see number 2 in table 1).
The Revenue Support Grant (RSG) is
money paid directly to us from central
government.
Non-domestic Rates (NDR) are paid by
businesses in the Canterbury district.
These are paid into a central
government pool and redistributed to
local authorities. The £11,553,000 is our
share of the pool this year.
Table 1 Gross expenditure Gross income Net expenditure (1)
£’000 £’000 £’000
Culture and heritage 2,994 -1,119 1,875
Sport and recreation 5,486 -760 4,726
Tourism 829 -339 490
Coast protection 1,911 -849 1,062
Waste collection 3,335 -443 2,892
Other environmental services 5,270 -642 4,628
Planning and development 6,958 -3,174 3,784
Highways and parking and transport 8,253 -8,737 -484
Housing 26,769 -23,149 3,620
Housing impairment exceptional item 61,179 0 61,179
Housing benefits 41,023 -41,159 -136
Central services 18,098 -15,950 2,148
Totals 182,105 -96,321 85,784
Corporate income and expenditure -8,521
Leaving, to be funded from government grants and taxation 77,263
Capital grants and contributions -7,375
Council Tax -9,847
Government grants** -13,310
Total (2) -30,532
Income and expenditure deficit for year 46,731
Statutory accounting adjustments -45,740
Increase in general fund balance for the year 991
General fund balance at 1 April 2010 2,509
General fund balance at 31 March 2011 3,500
Pie chart 1
£’000
The Council Tax income is the
proportion we keep from the total
we collect.
Central services, £2,148, 9%
Housing services, £3,484, 14%
Planning and parking, £3,300, 13%
Other environmental services, £4,628, 19%
Coast protection, £1,062, 4%
Waste collection and disposal, £2,892, 12%
Tourism, £490, 2%
Recreation and sport, £4,726, 19%
Culture and heritage, £1,875, 8%
NDR Pool, £11,553, 49.89%
Area based grant, £79, 0.34%
Council Tax, £9,847, 42.52%
RSG, £1,678, 7.25%
Pie chart 2
£’000

Where does the rest of
your Council Tax go?
We hold the Council Tax in a separate fund because it is
collected on behalf of Kent County Council, the police
and the fire service as well as to help pay for our own
services. Pie chart 3 shows how it is distributed. We only
keep 13% per year of what you pay to us.
Pie chart 3
The cost of housing services
Kent County Council 72%
Police Services 10%
Fire Services 5%
Canterbury City Council 13%
The Housing Revenue Account (HRA) is also a separately
maintained account showing the cost of running the council’s
housing stock, used to accommodate council tenants. It is
separately financed by rents and service charges. We currently
have 5,215 properties in the Canterbury district.
Table 2
Income £’000
Rents from homes 19,052
Rents for garages 436
Charges for services and facilities 1,572
Total income 21,060
Expenditure
Repairs and maintenance 4,417
Supervision and management 5,177
Subsidy paid to government 5,505
Depreciation 2,618
Reduction in value of houses (impairment losses) 67,086
Insurance and rents 237
Total expenditure 85,040
Net cost 63,980
Plus corporate costs 121
Plus investments, interest and borrowing 247
Total deficit for the year 64,348
Plus financing capital expenditure 1,855
Plus other statutory amounts etc 1,615
Less reversal of impairment losses -67,086
Leaving a decrease in the HRA balance this year of 732
HRA balance at 1 April 2010 -2,326
HRA balance at 31 March 2011 -1,594
Balance sheet
What the council owns, what it owes and what it is owed.
Table 3
At 31 March 2011 £’000
Value of buildings and land owned 376,169
Investments and cash in bank 21,299
Money owed to us 14,628
412,096
less
Money owed by us -10,361
Loans outstanding -42,471
Other long-term liabilities -36,242
-89,074
Total assets less total liabilities 323,022
Financed by
General Fund balance (table 1) 3,500
HRA balance (table 2) 1,594
Reserves 15,218
Capital financing reserves 302,710
Total 323,022
Capital spending
This is the money spent on buying, upgrading and improving
the council’s assets. It isn’t included in the other annual income
and expenditure tables because we receive the benefit of this
spending over many years, not just in the year we spend the
money. The major areas of spending and how we paid for it are
shown in the pie charts below.
Whitstable castle , £987, 3%
St George’s Street, £3,444, 11%
Beaney Institute, £2,731, 9%
Marlowe Theatre, £10,186, 32%
Coast protection, £733, 2%
Council dwellings, £6,218, 20%
Environment, IT, property purchase
and other, £7,176, 23%
Audit approval
£’000
Borrowing, £14,000, 44%
Revenue & reserves, £5,957, 19%
Grants, £6,480, 21%
Capital receipts, £5,039, 16%
Our accounts are audited each year by the Audit Commission.
This makes sure our financial statements show the council’s
financial position and income and expenditure accurately and fairly.
This audit hadn’t taken place when this summary was prepared.
Would you like to?
• See this document in large print, Braille audio tape or another
language? Please call 01227 862 000
• See the full statement of accounts? Go to
www.canterbury.gov.uk/finance or call 01227 862 000
• Comment on this summary… was it easy to read and
understand? Was it helpful? Was there anything else you
would like to see included? Please call 01227 862 000 or go
to www.canterbury.gov.uk/comments
23

New councillors make
their mark on the district
It was with some trepidation that 19 new city councillors dipped their toes into the world of local
government following the elections in May. From committee meetings and formal training to setting up
advice surgeries for residents, there was much to learn. District Life spoke to six of the new councillors
about how the first few months have panned out…
Cllr Alison O’Dea, Conservative, Gorrell ward Cllr Ashley Clark, Conservative, Gorrell ward
Since May, I have not had any
regrets, although it is not
entirely what I expected.
The number of committees/
meetings we attend is far greater
than I imagined it would be, and
I am really lucky that a neighbour
babysits for me, as with two
young children, and a husband
working in London, her services
are often required.
The decision to put myself
forward for election was not
taken lightly. I felt that I may not
necessarily fit the typical profile
of a councillor.
Indeed, since taking up the
position it is apparent that
women, particularly in my age
group, are under-represented,
even though I believe that
women in particular can very
often possess the skills required
for this role.
I have really enjoyed dealing
with some of our ward issues,
24
and recently resolved a housing
problem for a young single
mother on an estate, which was
very satisfying. We are
continually looking at and
reporting potholes for residents,
and I am also dealing with a
parking issue for another.
This is why I became a councillor
– a genuine desire to help people
in our local community. You can’t
be successful every time, but the
fact that you are trying is always
appreciated.
I hope that I can demonstrate
that regardless of your political
background, if you possess a
genuine desire to become
involved within your community,
then contributing to local
political issues can be a very
rewarding experience.
I’ve realised that most residents
couldn’t care less what party you
represent – all they want is
someone fighting their corner.
A ward councillor is certainly
an odd job. To start comes the
interview – not just the one
like most jobs but hundreds
conducted on the doorstep
throughout the ward.
Post-election there is the
unfamiliarity of the council
chamber, but I feel that previous
life experience as a police officer
with regular dealings with the
press, familiarity with legislation
and constant contact with the
public gave me a huge advantage
from day one.
Certainly there was a lot to
learn. It was here that I discovered
that council officers are
conscientious and supportive.
For me the most important part
of the job is being out in the ward
and the town, talking to people
and being active for good in the
community.
Much is about communication
and explanation but sometimes
living in the heart of the ward
means one can get out and sort
things straight away.
One can get frustrated with the
speed that things happen and the
requirement for matters to pass
through numerous committees.
Planning can be frustrating as one
has to decide on the evidence
and in terms of planning law.
The fact that decisions made
by local councillors in the interest
of their communities can be
overturned on appeal by a distant
and unelected planning inspector
seems wrong to say the least.
But the most important thing
is to remain positive. I have been
able to influence and get things
changed both at district and ward
levels.
On the face of it individual
councillors don’t have much
power but they can do one thing.
They are able to bring things from
the bottom of someone’s in tray to
the top.
This can make a huge difference
to people’s lives, and that is what
the job is all about.

Cllr Graham Wood, Liberal Democrat, Westgate ward
My first impression on being elected to Westgate ward is the variety of issues to
consider.
Litter, refuse collection, students, new developments, car parks, locking of parks and
gardens, removal of hedges, resurfacing of roads, anti-social behaviour, abuse of
licensing, trees and illegal parking are just some of the matters that have arisen over the
last few months.
Fortunately my fellow Liberal Democrat councillors, and indeed those of other parties,
have been very helpful in showing me the ropes.
I am delighted to have encountered so many of those living in the ward and, I hope,
been able to assist with their problems.
Cllr Rob Thomas, Conservative,
Chartham and Stone Street ward
Working with other
councillors and council
officers has been
really enjoyable.
To my surprise thus far
it has been less political
than I thought it would
have been, although
with the budget setting
for 2012/13 on the
horizon that may well be
about to change!
And some of the
committees I sit on are
more apolitical so this
may bias my view a little.
It’s been reassuring to
learn how well things are
organised at the council
and how knowledgeable
and hardworking
everyone is.
The balance between
meetings and
constituency work was
different to what I had
imagined (more of the
former and less of the
latter), but being in a
rural ward with parish
council meetings as well
as the initial training
sessions may have
distorted my view a
little.
The most enjoyable
part for me has been
being on Development
Management
Committee as this has
been the best
opportunity to help
shape the future of the
district.
Cllr Jeremy Bellamy,
Conservative, Barton ward
Since being elected as
the youngest member
of the council in May,
there’s certainly been
a lot to learn; whether
it’s the complexities of
planning and housing
law or simply
navigating the
impenetrable warren
of corridors at the
Military Road offices.
Getting to grips with
the formalities and
procedures of the
council has been a
learning curve for sure,
but I expected as much
and I have embraced
each of the new
challenges.
Above all else I’ve
enjoyed rolling up my
Cllr Alan Baldock, Labour, Northgate ward
sleeves and helping
those members of the
community who make a
real difference. For me
this process of going
and finding out what
really matters to people
in my ward has been
the most rewarding part
of my time on the
council so far.
Where have these first few months of our new council gone?
But what a privilege and honour to have been elected to represent Northgate ward,
which is, and has always been, my home. That duty I hold hopefully keeps me focused
and my feet firmly on the ground, but I am all too aware, every day, it is up to me to
prove to the Northgate residents I am up to the job.
Being in opposition can of course be frustrating but I am learning fast to challenge
decisions that are bad for Northgate and fight hard for compromise. Sometimes I
succeed, but not always.
Being a councillor offers you the opportunity to serve on many committees, such as
Development Management Committee and Canterbury Area Member Panel. Those your
community invites you to join are very special to them and me.
Rest assured there are an awful lot of committees. It surprised me just how many, and
maybe that was a bit naive, but still I am a new councillor!
Any regrets now? Absolutely none.
25

The Lifeline service has been provided by
Canterbury City Council to thousands of elderly,
vulnerable and disabled people across the east Kent
area. We have a specialist dedicated team working
24 hours a day and they are trained to respond to
your emergency.
Over the last 15 years the service has built up a
very good reputation for its quick response to
emergencies as well as for the friendly, courteous,
professional and reassuring manner with which we
deal with people relying on the service.
We are proud to be able to deliver a valuable
service which assists people to maintain their
independence.
Knowing I’m safe when I say goodbye
When others can’t be there – Lifeline can
Here are some quotes
from clients:
Mr P from Bridge said:
“I’ve been with Canterbury Lifeline
since you started and I wouldn’t be
without you. I’m often having falls and I
always get a fast and friendly response
– last time I called you the ambulance
got here before I knew it.”
Mrs R’s daughter from Canterbury said:
“You’re always so quick and efficient in
dealing with any situation. It’s such
peace of mind for mum and I, knowing
that she is in safe hands when I can’t be
there.”
Mrs B from Birchington said:
“I feel so much more at ease knowing
that I’ve got a Lifeline installed.”
We have two coordinators,
Jo Linnane and Marilyn Morgan,
who will be happy to arrange a free
demonstration of the service at your
home, or your relative’s home if it is
for someone else.
01227 862 540
www.canterbury.gov.uk/lifeline Please quote DLJ 2011

Raising the roof at Littlebourne Barn
A dramatic transformation is taking
place at Littlebourne’s historic barn as
the ancient building has its thatched roof
replaced.
Dating back to 1340, the barn is one of
Littlebourne’s oldest – and most iconic
– buildings. Sited on the northern fringe
of the village, the barn is 172 feet long
and more than 76 feet wide. And with its
steeply pitched roof, it has all the typical
characteristics of a Kentish aisle barn.
Today, the popular building is used for an
array of local activities, including wedding
receptions, meetings and produce shows.
However, despite its innate charm and
longevity, the barn faced an uncertain future
in the 1980s with doubts surrounding its use.
But following a public enquiry, in 1991 the
barn was purchased by the city council with
assistance from English Heritage and Kent
County Council.
Since then the Grade I barn has undergone
repairs, resulting in its thatched roof
comprising water reed, instead of long straw,
which is native to Kent.
But earlier this year, a team of expert
craftsmen contracted by the city council,
started work on the complete re-thatching of
the barn and have been replacing the rotting
water reed with brand new long straw.
The £131,000 project is now reaching
completion, resulting in the beauty and
structural integrity of the building being
preserved.
The council’s senior surveyor, Colin
Pengelly, said: “Littlebourne Barn is one of the
most fascinating and important
buildings of its kind anywhere in the country.
Apart from representing the area’s history,
it’s also a much-loved building, held in great
affection by many people from Littlebourne
and beyond.
“Before the end of the year, the roof of
Littlebourne Barn will be fully restored with
long straw, ensuring that its local character
is preserved. By investing in the barn, the
council has recognised the significance of the
building and its importance to the people of
Littlebourne.”
Master Thatcher James Chambers at work
Awards galore in gardening scheme
It was another record breaking year for the Canterbury district in
the annual Wild About Gardens scheme.
Once again the district had the most applications in Kent, resulting in
25 gold awards, 22 silver awards and six bronze awards.
And the new Stream Walk Community Garden in Whitstable, created
on an old allotment that was decommissioned 20 years ago, won the
‘Best Community Garden’ in Kent award.
It opened earlier this year following a joint project between the city
council and Kent Enterprise Trust, who manage the space for people
interested in gardening and home grown produce.
Ten other gardens were also nominated for special awards, including
Parkside and Herne schools, and there was a special mention for
Maureen Matthews for her efforts to garden for reptiles such as slow
worms and grass snakes.
Wild About Gardens is run as a partnership between Kent Wildlife
Trust and Kent’s local councils to encourage wildlife gardening and
offer advice to gardeners.
The scheme is free and is open to anyone who gardens in Kent.
29

30
Whether it’s organising a youth event,
working with partner agencies, or tackling
nuisance drivers at a seafront car park,
there’s never a dull moment for Community
Safety Officer Graham Simpson.
Graham’s job is about getting to the
root of crime and anti-social behaviour in
local neighbourhoods and ensuring that
organisations such as the police, the council,
the fire service and many others are all
working together. Graham said: “Issues can
rarely be solved by one agency working on
its own. I arrange for organisations to work
together, to share information and to develop
an action plan.”
10am: Working together
Graham arranges for various local agencies
to meet fortnightly at a Neighbourhood
Tasking Group. These agencies include those
who help the homeless or people who have
drug or alcohol dependencies – as well as
Kent County Council Community Wardens,
and representatives from Kent Probation, the
Kent Youth Service and others.
A day in the life of a
Community Safety Officer
The Community Safety Officer sits within
the Canterbury Community Safety Unit,
which is based at Canterbury City Council.
Graham said: “The Community Safety Unit
works well as it brings staff from the council,
Kent Police, Kent County Council and other
organisations all together into the same office
with the joint aim of dealing with local issues
and concerns.”
The day-to-day role involves responding
to community issues, to drive forward
community projects, talking with the public
and enforcing anti-social behaviour law.
Noon: Court papers are served
at an illegal encampment
After the Neighbourhood Tasking Group
meeting Graham served court papers at an
illegal encampment – where people were
living on Canterbury City Council-owned
land, without permission.
2pm: Gathering evidence
During the afternoon Graham spoke with
local residents following reports of anti-
social behaviour and street drinkers near the
River Stour. Graham gathered evidence in
order to share the information with partner
organisations who will work together to
tackle and solve the problem.
Other days could involve helping
communities to set up residents’ associations
or Neighbourhood Watch schemes, working
closely with the Foreshore department at
Canterbury City Council, with Kent Police
and owners of beach huts with the aim of
preventing criminal damage and vandalism, or
speaking with students about personal safety
and being considerate to their neighbours.
Graham said: “The main focus of my job is
working with colleagues in partner agencies
and finding solutions to problems that
detrimentally affect the lives of residents. It’s
a lovely area and I’m very happy to have a job
which helps keep the Canterbury district a
safe place to live and work.”
To find out more about the Canterbury
Community Safety Unit and the Canterbury
Community Safety Partnership visit www.
canterburycsp.org.uk.

Spotlight
on student
safety
Students were given information about
alcohol, drugs, domestic abuse and
protecting their property – thanks to
staff from the Canterbury Community
Safety Unit.
The unit set up stands at freshers’ fairs
and other events at the beginning of the
academic year visiting the University of
Kent, Christ Church University, Canterbury
College and the University for the
Creative Arts.
Students were also given leaflets about
internet safety, personal safety, fire safety
and lots more, as well as staff handing out
pens, pencils, key rings and bags
featuring safety messages and contact
numbers. Students were also given details
of a new website where they might find
useful information – www.canterbury.
gov.uk/students.
Public information pillar has moved
The Canterbury Community Safety
Partnership pubic information pillar
has been moved.
The pillar arrived in the city in February
and was near to the bus station and
Fenwicks. In September it was moved to
its new location at The Parade and close
to Iron Bar Lane.
Information on the pillar is changed
seasonally.
Canterbury City Council’s Community
Safety Manager Doug Rattray said: “We
are always looking at new and creative
ways to communicate with residents and
the best ways to get community safety
messages across to the public.
“This is in a central location with
thousands of people walking by each
day, so the pillar will be seen by many
people as they do their shopping. The
pillar is a great way to get people’s
attention and give them information
they need.”
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH
COASTAL EY E
An eye on the coast
A scheme which aims to provide additional
eyes and ears along the coastline was
launched earlier this year.
It is called Coastal Eye and is led by the
Canterbury and District Neighbourhood Watch
Association, with support from other members
of the Canterbury Community Safety
Partnership.
The scheme is open to all those who have an
interest in the coastline stretching from Seasalter
to Reculver – individuals, organisations and
businesses. Working together the organisations
aim to prevent and detect crime and to reduce
anti-social behaviour and criminal damage.
Partnership website
is a big success
The Canterbury Community Safety
Partnership website is now more than a year
old.
During its first year it had nearly 4,000 visits
and almost 13,000 page views.
The website now has a huge bank of news
stories and a new mini site on domestic abuse.
People can also visit to find out more about
who the partners are, what the partnership
does and what its priorities are – along with
advice on staying safe and protecting property.
Visit www.canterburycsp.org.uk.
31