Leatherhead Residents Association

Open Committee MeetingMonday 6th February 2012Letherhead Institute 7.30 -9.00 pm

2012-01-29T19:38:00.003Z

Agenda

1. Apologies for absence

2. Minutes of 9th January

3. Matters arising (not covered below)

4. Correspondence:

From Surrey Police and forwarded to members on emailing list, namely:
20th Jan. on insulation scam
24th Jan. Police alert on recent crime

Others:

DATE	SENDER	SUBJECT
20th Jan.	Esther Purdy	Community Resilience Event
23rd Jan.	LRA member	Community Funds Offer
26th Jan.	Louise Bircher	Olympic Bell Ringing
26th Jan	Louise Bircher	Volunteer Welcome Evening
26th Jan.	Olympic Cycling	Mayor of London's Cycling legacy

5. Spring Newsletter (early March)

Articles required – deadline: February 25th

6. To receive reports from:

Environment Subcommittee
Planning Subcommittee
BLeAF (Chairs of Bookham, Leatherhead, Ashtead & Fetcham RAs)
I understand there is to be a BLeAF report, but I have not yet received it (I will put it online when I receive it);
An internal report is currently under consideration by the Membership Subcommittee;
I have not heard from the Highways Subcommittee.

7. Notice of future meetings:

February 16th - Leatherhead Community Garden Committee - CA
March 8th - Community Resilience presentation at Pippbrook – HP & CA

8. Planning Infrastructure Funding

See See Developer Contributions Spreadsheet

9. Any Other Business (None received so far)
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(The meeting will be preceded by the South Leatherhead Police Panel from 6.45 to 7.15 pm;
the North Leatherhead Police Panel will be on Thursday, 16th February at 7.30 pm in the North Leatherhead Community Centre).

Volunteer for opportunities around the London 2012 Olympics Games in Mole Valley

2012-01-27T15:48:00.000Z

This message is sent on behalf of Kath Holland, Community Arts Development Officer

Dear All

I would like to invite you to attend a Volunteer Welcome Evening to sign up to volunteer for opportunities around the London 2012 Olympics Games in Mole Valley or to find out more information about volunteering. The evenings will be informal drop-in sessions aimed at people who are interested in finding out more about volunteering opportunities around the London 2012 Olympics Games in Mole Valley. They are also an opportunity for those who have already expressed an interest to complete the volunteering application form and meet key people who are involved in organising the events.

In Dorking, the welcome evening will take place at The Dorking Volunteer Centre, The Mayflower Centre, Lyons Court, Dorking, RH4 1AB on Wednesday 8 February, from 7pm until 9pm. In Leatherhead the Welcome Evening will take place on Monday 20 February at Leatherhead Leisure Centre, Guildford Road Leatherhead, Surrey, KT22 9BL also from 7pm until 9pm.

People who are interested in finding out more about volunteering opportunities around the London 2012 Olympics Games in Mole Valley, or more generally about volunteering are welcome to drop-in to either session at any time between 7pm – 9pm. Refreshments will be available. For more information or to confirm your attendance please contact 01306 879 188 or email kath.holland@molevalley.gov.uk

Kath HollandCommunity Arts Development OfficerPartnerships and Community DevelopmentMole Valley District Council
01306 879 188
07884 263 424
kath.holland@molevalley.gov.uk
www.molevalley.gov.uk/arts
www.arts-alive.co.uk

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155
www.molevalley.gov.uk

Mayor of London cycling legacy event in August 2013 announced

2012-01-27T15:45:00.000Z

The Mayor of London announced plans for a two-day festival of cycling, which will take place in August 2013, providing a cycling legacy after the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Up to 70,000 people will take part in a family festival in London on day one and day two will see up to 35,000 amateur, club and world-class elite cyclists taking part in a 100-mile road race, which will begin at the Olympic Park, head towards Surrey and is likely to follow much of the route of the Olympic Road Cycling Race.
The Mayor of London's Office will be working with Transport for London and Surrey County Council on the exact route of the race. We will be in touch later this year once we have more details.
Kinds Regards
2012 team

Surrey 2012 Team
Surrey County Council
Penrhyn Road
Kingston upon Thames
KT1 2DN
www.gosurrey.info
olympic.cycling@surreycc.gov.uk

Surrey Sponsored Abseil

2012-01-27T07:43:00.001Z

Saturday 24 March 2012

The 15th Century tower of St Mary and St Nicholas church in Leatherhead has been used as a school, a fire station and now…an abseil venue! Put your fear threshold to the test at this historic building which is even older than the Domesday Book. You’ll have stunning views over the town of Leatherhead, right across to Box Hill and Dorking, as you participate in this exciting and unique experience.

Read more ....

Olympic Bell Ringing

2012-01-26T08:57:00.000Z

Dear All

The London 2012 Festival organisers have announced a mass bell-ringing to mark the start of the Olympic Games on Friday 27 July at 8.00am for 3 minutes. It would be great if Mole Valley were to participate in this event so I would be most grateful if you could pass this information on to anyone who would be interested. The plan is not only to ring church bells, but also door bells, hand bells, sleigh bells, school bells, bicycle bells and so on. There is a link below to a BBC news item on this topic and the relevant page on the London 2012 website as well as the All the Bells website

http://www.allthebells.com

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-15589573

http://www.london2012.com/video-transcripts/london-2012-festival-programme-launched-transcript.php

kind regards

Louise

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155
www.molevalley.gov.uk

Surrey Police: Recent crime

2012-01-24T11:06:00.000Z

Surrey Police report that a distraction burglary occurred in the Leather area. Can you please circulate the details of the crime to the members of your Watch if you think it will be of value.

WHITE VAN MAY CONNECT
2 MALES, AT LEAST ONE OF WHICH HAD AN ACCENT, ENGLISH BUT NOT SURREY
MALE 1 - IC1 / EARLY 30'S / F510 / SLIM BUILD / DARK HAIR / WEARING BLACK WAIST LENGTH LEATHER JACKET
MALE 2 - IC1 / LATE 20'S - EARLY 30'S / F510 - F5111 / MEDIUM BUILD / WEARING BLACK LEATHER JACKET
MALES CLAIMED TO BE FROM THE COUNCIL - GAVE NO ID
ONE OF THE MALES STATED HE WAS CHECKING THE WATER PRESSURE

Any suspicious incidents should be reported to the police on 101 quoting the Crime reference number as appropriate.

Insulation Scam ?

2012-01-20T11:47:00.001Z


A list member in Brockham this morning was telephoned by a company called
"Save you Money" offering 100% grants for insulation.  After asking some
astute questions the call was ended.  Trading standards are being informed.

Dorking Town Area Action Plan (AAP)

2012-01-20T11:10:00.000Z

Not strictly Leatherhead....

The Council has today published its Dorking Town Area Action Plan (AAP): Draft Plan - January 2012 (Proposed Submission Document) for a six week representation period ending 5pm, Friday 2nd March 2012.

To view the Draft Plan please visit the Dorking Town AAP webpage at the following address: http://www.molevalley.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=9164

Information about the Draft Plan, how to make representations and the next steps in the process is attached.

If you have any queries on the Draft Plan please do not hesitate to contact the Planning Policy Team by email at ldf@molevalley.gov.uk or telephone 01306 885001

Kind regards

Helen Sissons

Planning Policy Officer

Mole Valley District Council

Pippbrook, Dorking

Surrey RH4 1SJ

Telephone - 01306 879275

Website - www.molevalley.gov.uk

Police Alert

2012-01-18T20:54:00.000Z

SUSPICIOUS TRANSIT VAN NG56NTF IN WOTTON AREA IF SEEN DO NOT APPROACH BUT CALL 999 If required call 101

Surrey Reuse Network furniture reuse campaign

2012-01-12T15:42:00.003Z

Surrey County Council will be launching the Surrey Reuse Network furniture reuse campaign next week which aims to increase the amount of furniture and white goods that are reused, aiming to divert 2,000 tonnes going into landfill.

The Surrey Reuse Network offers a wide range of good quality items at affordable prices. Made up of a group of six charities, the network aims to find new homes for donated furniture and kitchen appliances, as well as offering training and employment opportunities and helping local families in need. Buying reusable furniture and kitchen appliances is great value, good for the environment and hidden treasures may be found.

Visit www.surreyreusenetwork.org.uk to see what sort of information Surrey Reuse Network are communicating.

Surrey Police: Non Emergency Number

2012-01-11T17:32:00.000Z

Police non-emergency number 101 proves a success in Surrey – and is now available across England and Wales

The new non-emergency telephone number - 101 - is proving a success in Surrey since its official launch on 1st September 2011.

More than 50 percent of the non-emergency calls coming into the Surrey Police contact centre are made by members of the public using 101 rather than the previous 0845 number.

The memorable 101 number has now been rolled out to all police forces across England and Wales and is expected to continue to aid the police in dealing with calls for help from the public.

101 costs 15p per call from both mobile phones and landlines, no matter how long the call lasts or what time of day it’s made. Calls to 101 from telephone boxes are free.

As an alternative to 101 – a geographical number – 01483 571212 – is also available for those unable to use the 101 service (for example, if calling from abroad).

Chief Inspector Alison Barlow, from Surrey Police’s Contact Centre, said: “On average Surrey Police receives around 350 emergency 999 calls a day but less than 20 percent of those require an emergency response from the police. You should only call 999 in a real emergency, for example when someone’s life is in danger, a serious offence is in progress or someone is at risk of violence. For all other issues such as contacting police with a general enquiry or reporting minor crime or disorder the public should contact Surrey Police on the 101 number.”

Minor crime can also be reported online, at a police station or at Surrey Police’s mobile police office. For more details visit www.surrey.police.uk

If you need to contact us in the meantime, you can reach us on

Email: 20438@surrey.pnn.police.uk
Tel: 101

Vehicle Crime

2012-01-06T17:33:00.000Z

Surrey Police has launched an initiative this week to tackle vehicle crime across the county. Activity will include neighbourhood officers and extra patrol teams focussing on the hot spot areas within Surrey and offenders known to be linked to vehicle crime. The Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) team will also be stopping vehicles which are known to have been stolen or have links to offenders. The overall aim is to reduce the offences of theft from and theft of motor vehicles.

In addition to these operational activites, innovative 'Fixed Police Notices' containing crime prevention advice will also be put on cars in vulnerable areas or where vehicle crime has recently taken place.
Inspector Richard Mallet of Surrey Police Roads Policing Unit advises the following steps to reduce vehicle crime;
Always lock your car when you leave it, even if it's just for a few moments. Make sure windows and sunroofs are shut and locked too.
Never leave any personal possessions in your car. Thieves love to steal sat navs, laptops and mobile phones. But less obvious items such as clothes and loose change are also appealing.
Don't leave valuables hidden in your boot or under car seats. Thieves know where to look.
Don't store driving or vehicle documents in your glove box. Keep them stored safely at home.
If your car doesn't have an alarm, get one fitted or use a steering lock to deter thieves.
Look after your car keys. Keep them on you when out and about. When at home keep them hidden and not in view of a window, door or letterbox.
Secure your number plate with clutch head screws to avoid becoming a victim of 'car cloning'.
Keep your eye out for potential car criminals. If you see someone looking inside cars or trying door handles call Surrey Police on 101. In an emergency always call 999. For more details on how to protect your vehicle visit www.surrey.police.uk/vehiclecrime

Change of Police Sergeant Roles Mole Valley Safer Neighbourhood Team

2012-01-03T17:26:00.000Z

From 1^st January 2012 there are changes in the responsibilities of two of the sergeants of the Mole Valley Safer Neighbourhood Team.

Sgt John Pearson will continue to oversee the north of the district, with a minor change to the boundary so that Polesden Lacey falls within the rural area, and Sgt Bert Dean will continue supervising the Neighbourhood Support Team.

Sgt Simon Cox, who has spent the last few months taking care of the moves from our two police stations, will now take over the Rural West and Rural East areas, leaving Sgt Andy Rundle with Dorking town and Goodwyns, Chart Downs and North Holmwood.

Over the next year the rural area will be heavily involved with Olympic related activity, and these changes allow for more supervisor support on the rural areas. We have already had exciting initiatives such as the off road motorcycles that were recently introduced, and by increasing the resources in the rural area we will be in an even stronger position to combat rural crime and other issues.

This move will also allow Sgt Rundle to take the lead on licensing issues across the district and we can ensure that there is more consistency in the way we deal with licensed premises both in Dorking and Leatherhead towns.

Insp Terri Poulton, who is in charge of the Mole Valley Safer Neighbourhood Team said “ The local team has a very busy year ahead, with the Olympic cycle races, Queens Jubilee and other events happening on Mole Valley. Now that we have completed the physical moves of the local teams, we are in a position to reorganise the team leaders to ensure we maximise the opportunities to deal with local crime and neighbourhood issues. While these moves largely affect the team themselves, there will be a positive effect for local communities as the supervisors will be able to more closely monitor local problems and initiatives to ensure we deliver the best possible service.”

Open Committee MeetingMonday, 9th JanuaryLeatherhead Institute 7.30 pm – 9.00 pm

2012-01-02T16:12:00.006Z

1. Apologies for absence.

2. Minutes of the 5th December 2011

3. Matters arising from Minutes (not covered later in the agenda)

4. Correspondence

5. To receive and consider reports from:

6. Any Other Business (None received so far)
_________________________________________________

(There is no South Leatherhead Police Panel this month; the North Leatherhead Police Panel will be on Thursday 19th January in the North Leatherhead Community Centre)

Cherkley Court: we listened to everyone & excluded no one.

2011-12-26T20:16:00.011Z

On page 23 of the Leatherhead Advertiser of the 22nd December there is a short articled titled "Access Denied" which claims to give "clarification." Sadly, it does not clarify things but rather adds further misinformation in what we are very concerned had become a 'war of words' which may be having a divisive effect on the community. I make the following points:

1. No one was denied access to the LRA meeting on the 3rd of December, which was was an open Committee meeting. Anyone, whether a member of the LRA or not, could attend as an observer.

2. The Longshot proposals had been favourably reported at some length at LRA meetings in the July and September, as the minutes show. Also the Summer edition of our Newsletter contained an article largely supportive of these proposals; the Autumn Newsletter also contained reports on the proposals. All minutes and Newsletter are available online:
www.leatherheadresidents.org.uk/meetings.shtml
www.leatherheadresidents.org.uk/news.shtml

3. It should also be pointed out that all Committee members had attended at least one of the impressive and professional presentations given by Longshot's representatives at Cherkley Court.

4. Therefore, it was felt that the offer from one of Longshot's representative to give yet another presentation at the 3rd of December meeting was superfluous and, in view of the intention to keep the meeting short, it was politely declined. But there was no exclusion on anyone's attending the meeting. Indeed, some future presentation may be made, and this will be discussed at the January meeting of BLeAF (Chairmen of the Bookham, Leatherhead, Ashtead and Fetcham Residents' Associations).

5. After Longshot had formally submitted its application to MVDC, our Planning Subcommittee met and spent some considerable time pouring over the lengthy documentation submitted in support of the application. The Subcommittee produced a report, which had been available on line since 27th November, and this report was presented to the 3rd of December meeting.
Planning_Cherkley_2011.pdf

6. At the 3rd December meeting, one of our own LRA members was allowed to give a ten minute presentation on behalf of the Cherkley Campaign. This was a very modest 'balance' to the extensive pro-Longshot representations the Committee has been receiving over the past six months.

7. The vote that took place was made after having received several reports and presentations made on behalf of Longshot, a report on the actual submission made by our Planning Subcommittee, and a ten minute presentation on behalf of the Cherkley Campaign. It should also be pointed out that the vote was by secret ballot, i.e. each member was voting individually without influence of fellow members.

Volunteer Opportunities – Olympics 2012

2011-12-16T13:22:00.000Z

If you are looking to get involved in the excitement of next year’s Olympic events in Surrey, then the ‘Surrey Ambassadors’ scheme could present the perfect opportunity.

Surrey Police, in conjunction with Surrey County Council, is looking for volunteers to support our Olympic programme of events and activities whilst helping to give visiting spectators a really good experience of Surrey. Ambassadors are required to ‘meet and greet’ people, guide them to events and local places of interest and answer questions.

Volunteers will need to have specific local knowledge of locations along the routes of the cycling events and the Torch Relay – key locations are Dorking, Egham, Esher, Godalming, Godstone, Guildford, Leatherhead, Redhill, Reigate, Shere, Weybridge and Woking. They will also need to be available on at least three of the following dates: 20, 28, 29 July and 1 August and for a days training in the weeks leading up to the Olympics.
To take on this important role you must be an excellent communicator, enthusiastic, supportive and reliable. As the friendly face of Surrey, you will need to be approachable, open minded and patient, as well as physically fit and confident. If you are fluent in a second language (particularly French, Dutch/Flemish, Italian, German and Spanish) that would be useful but is not essential.
At the moment we are just looking for expressions of interest. Once you have registered interest you will receive an application form and further information. Applications will be ‘sifted’, and those who meet all the criteria will be invited for a short interview. After training, successful applicants will work alongside other Olympic stewards, and of course Surrey Police officers and staff.

To register your interest, please email volunteer@surrey.pnn.police.uk giving your name, address and phone number. Or drop us a line at Police Support Volunteers, Surrey Police HQ, PO Box 101, Guildford GU1 9PE.

Closing date for applications: Wednesday, 1 February, 2011.

Surrey Police: Rogues Gallery launched to name and shame convicted burglars and ask for information on those ‘Most Wanted’

2011-12-13T21:32:00.000Z

SURREY Police has launched a new section on the Force’s website today to trace those both wanted and suspected of being involved in various burglary offences across the county. The section also names and shames those recently put behind bars.

http://www.surrey.police.uk/media/rogues_gallery.asp

The Rogues Gallery is split into three sections - 'Behind Bars', 'Most Wanted', and 'Do you know these people?' and it will run for an initial three month trial period. The Rogues Gallery will be updated on a regular basis with new convictions to highlight how the public have helped Surrey Police put criminals ‘Behind Bars’. It will also be updated regularly with those ‘Most Wanted’ or suspected of being involved in burglaries.
Anyone with information can call Surrey Police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 if they don’t want to give their name.

Surrey Police’s campaign to help homeowners avoid becoming the victims of burglary over Christmas also launched last week.
http://www.surrey.police.uk/safety/beattheburglar/beattheburglar.asp

The campaign includes a short video and radio adverts urging the public to protect their homes and possessions and not to make life easy for burglars by leaving their wrapped presents in view under the Christmas tree.

A new 10 step self assessment to consider and assess the level of home security is now available on the Force’s website. It provides practical advice to help homeowners reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim of burglary.

To help you enjoy a happy and safe Christmas and New Year, Surrey Police recommend the following:
At home

Don't leave presents under the Christmas tree in view of a window. Hide them somewhere safe until Christmas morning.
Security mark expensive presents, such as electronic equipment with a forensic marking product and keep an inventory on a property registration website such as www.immobilise.com.
Dispose of Christmas gift packaging carefully. Empty boxes left outside can advertise to thieves what they can find inside.

Going away?

If you are going away over the festive period ask a neighbour or your local Neighbourhood Watch scheme to keep an eye on your house.
Do not post details of your holiday on social networking sites.
Make your house look occupied by using automatic timer switches to turn interior lights, radios or TVs on and off and ensure you cancel your milk and newspapers.
Remember to lock all doors and windows and to set your burglar alarm.

Visit www.surrey.police.uk to view the Rogues Gallery, the Christmas campaign video or to take the self assessment on your home security.

Call 101 for all non-emergency policing matters.
Call 999 if you have a genuine emergency requiring the attendance of the police (eg a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger).
Call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you have information about crime and don't want to leave your name. ENDS CW/11 For more information please call 01483 632000 or email; PlannedCommunications@surrey.pnn.police.uk
Follow Surrey Police at www.twitter.com/surreypolice

MVDC Budget Consulation

2011-12-06T15:29:00.000Z

Dear All

Some of you may already know that Mole Valley District Council has begun its budget consultation for 2012. I am therefore contacting you to ask you and your colleagues and residents to take a few minutes to complete our short survey to tell us your views on this topic.

The consultation can be completed online on our website at www.molevalley.gov.uk. Here is a link for your convenience:

http://www.molevalley.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=12710

For anyone who prefers to complete the survey in hard copy, these can be found in the Pippbrook offices, at the Leatherhead HelpShop, in our two Day Centres (Dorking Christian Centre and the Fairfield Centre), in the 2 sports centres (LLC and Dorking Sports Centres) and in libraries.

Thank you

Louise

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155
www.molevalley.gov.uk

"Elf" & Safety : Concerns over Wonky Tree

2011-12-04T18:08:00.003Z

Will the Leatherhead tree last through the festive season?

Open Committee Meeting Monday, 5th December Leatherhead Institute 7.30 pm – 9.00 pm

2011-11-27T15:30:00.008Z

Agenda (7.30 pm - approx. 8.15 pm)

1. Apologies for absence.

2. Minutes of the 7th November.

3. Matters arising from Minutes (not covered later in the agenda)

4. Correspondence (None received so far)

5. To receive and consider reports from:

6. Any Other Business (None received so far)

The formal meeting will be followed by an informal session with mulled wine or soft drink, mince pies and other seasonal nibbles.
________________________________________

(The South Leatherhead Police Panel will be held in the same room earlier in the evening from 6.45 pm to 7.15 pm;
there is no North Leatherhead Police Panel this month)

Surrey County Council Bus Consultation

2011-11-26T08:48:00.001Z

SCC will run a three-month public consultation from Tuesday 1 November 2011 to Tuesday 31 January 2012 for your comments on the proposals. Brochures listing the changes and including a feedback form will be available at libraries from 1 November. Alternatively email your feedback to busreview@surreycc.gov.uk

The proposals can also be seen on the SCC Website

Improvements to Leatherhead Community Recycling Centre and Waste Transfer Station

2011-11-24T10:18:00.002Z

I am writing to let you know that improvements to Leatherhead Community Recycling Centre and Waste Transfer Station are due to begin in January 2012. The site will close on 9 January and the work will take around eight months. The nearest alternative community recycling centres are at Blenheim Road, Epsom, KT19 9DL and Ranmore Road, Dorking, RH4 1TL. The nearest waste transfer station is also at Blenheim Road. Both sites are around seven miles away from the Leatherhead waste facility. The site is being redeveloped to provide Leatherhead residents with a modern, accessible and user-friendly facility. The improvements will include:

· Improved parking and road layout to help site users to move around the site more easily and help to reduce queuing;
· Separate entrances for the public and site service vehicles to help reduce congestion at the site entrance;
· Drop off area for garden waste carried in trailers.

Other alterations planned also include:

· Redevelopment of the waste transfer station to include a fully enclosed building for household waste from borough councils;
· Improved traffic management with the complete separation of neighbouring Grundon and Thames Water vehicle access, as currently they pass through the site.

Yours sincerely,

Beverly Sheridan,
Project Manager
SITA Surrey

Cold Calls from G1 Security

2011-11-21T19:36:00.001Z

We have received reports in connection with people receiving "cold calls" from a company called G1 Security, who are trying to persuade people to purchase home security systems.
The calls are usually from someone purporting to be from Crime Prevention UK and there is sometimes a suggestion that the company is responding to recent crimes in the area. In particular, the company tends to target elderly and/or vulnerable people. If the offer is accepted the company then progresses to using "hard sell" tactics to get people to sign up to monitoring systems.
Prices quoted vary from "free" to a small selection of addresses as an advertisement for the company to £5000 - £6000 or more. If the system is offered "free", there is still an administration charge.
G! Security is not registered with any of the Security Industry Regulatory organisations. Sometimes they provide a genuine police incident number to give the impression that they are authorised by the local police. This is not the case as police never recommend specific companies as this would be totally unethical.
We would always advise people to research any system requirements for themselves and not respond to cold calling. If a salesperson turns up at an address and refuses to leave at the residents' request, they are committing a criminal offence and police can be contacted.
If you would like totally impartial and free advice about your home security, you can always call 101 and ask to speak with our Crime Reduction Advisor, Mike Bessent. Mike is happy to make home visits by appointment and to give a professionally qualified assessment of security needs that is cost-effective, appropriate and realistic to individual needs.
Thank you and please feel free to pass this information on to your friends, family and neighbours.
Mole Valley Safer Neighbourhood Team

If you need to contact us in the meantime, you can reach us on

Email: Clarke13363@surrey.pnn.police.uk
Tel: 101

THE LETHERHEAD INSTITUTE CELEBRATES 120 YEARS SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY IN 2012

2011-11-19T15:41:00.004Z

The Letherhead Institute at the top of the High Street was built in 1892 and given to the people of Leatherhead by local benefactor Abraham Dixon of Cherkley Court. Next year sees the commemoration of 120 years providing educational, social and recreational facilities within this beautiful Victorian building.

Amazingly the Institute had already been there for 5 years when Queen Victoria celebrated her Diamond Jubilee and it will be bedecked again next year to mark the Diamond Jubilee of our own Queen Elizabeth II.

The festivities on 19 May will include an invitation for all the Leatherhead Community to come and see what’s inside the building; a special feature will be an exhibition including pictures and artefacts from 1897 - Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee Year.

Do you have any Victorian memorabilia or photographs which you would be prepared to lend for the exhibition? We’d be delighted to hear from you at LCA2 AT btconnect DOT com or please write to:

The Administrator
Leatherhead Community Association
The Institute 67 High Street
Leatherhead KT22 8AH

Parking Problems

2011-11-14T16:30:00.004Z

Ray Ward's articles in the Autumn Newsletter "Parking inconsiderately" has a photograph of traffic parked on both sides of Kingscroft Avenue, making it difficult for larger vehicles to pass along the road, and impossible for fire engine to get through and causing problems for bin lorries. On at least one pccasion, I am told, "they sent a small vehicle on a Saturday morning and they threw all the refuse and paper/card in together!!"

This is hardly satisfactory. When restrictions were, quite rightly, imposed in Bypass Road some two years ago, could Surrey County Council (SCC) not work out that cars would simply shift into Kingscroft Avenue?

In response to the article, I have heard from a resident in Linden Road where - believe it not - when parking restrictions were introduced two years back in several roads (such as Bypass Road) "restrictions on parking in Linden Road were relaxed"! And guess what the resident went on to say? "... since then there have been no end of problems with inconsiderate parking." Was it really beyond the wit of SCC to foresee that would happen?

I am told that in response to complaints from residents in Linden Road, white 'aitch-bars' were painted in front of drives about six months ago; but as these things are not enforceable, "many drivers continue to park over them." More worrying still is the fact that this resident finds that when she tries to turn out of her drive "there is often ... insufficient field of vision to do so safely (quite a concern with my two young sons in the car). There has been one crash and numerous near misses as a result."

Three times in the past, "Fulvius", one of the Blog's contributors and a resident of Oaks Close, has blogged about the problems of that road. Incredibly, when restrictions were introduced on neighbouring rounds about two years ago, nothing was done about the road closest to the station! Surely even the dimmest person could work out that problems in Oaks Close would increase? It was either beyond SCC to work that out or it didn't care.

I will not go over the problems with delivery lorries that Fulvius has high-lighted in the past. The problems with bin collections have continued and now the only way Mole Valley District Council can ensure refuse is regularly collected in Oaks Close is to have one side of the road coned-off every Tuesday evening and the cones removed the following evening. So, if anyone in Oaks Close is going to have their house on fire, they had better make sure it's a Wednesday!

If it were not so serious, this would be farcical. And I think it likely there are other streets besides just these three that have experienced worsening problems over parking during the past two years.

It is not just that life is made difficult for delivery men, bin men and residents but people's lives are being put at risk, whether because fire service or ambulance will be held up or because of a fatal accident as some one turns out of their drive. Do we really have to wait until there is a fatality or serious injury before something is done about the parking problems in these (and other roads)?

We said at the time the restrictions were introduced two years back that it would only push the problem into other roads. How right we were! When are we going to have a proper comprehensive parking strategy for Leatherhead?

Help Surrey Police to reduce burglaries during the winter months

2011-11-10T18:40:00.000Z

Surrey Police in partnership with Eagle Radio have launched a campaign aimed at helping the county’s homeowners avoid becoming victims of burglary during the winter months.
The county sees around a 33% increase in domestic burglaries between the months of October and December after the clocks have gone back and the evenings get darker.
The campaign, titled "Burglars take more than you think - Don’t make it easy for them", includes a short film and radio adverts urging the public to protect their homes and possessions and not to make life easy for burglars.
The film features a young man, played by an actor, in a property you believe to be his own home. He’s taking a drink from the fridge and sitting on the sofa as he works from his laptop. As he prepares to go out he places the laptop in its case, gathers his "belongings" - a gold watch, mobile phone and money - and heads for the kitchen draw to collect his car keys.
As he drives off the viewer sees how he came to be in the property in the first place as he is revealed as a burglar!
A radio advertising campaign will run alongside the film featuring the views of home owners after they discover they have been burgled. Actor’s voices will portray the emotion and upset involved in having both sentimental and valuable items taken.
This campaign follows on from Surrey Police and Crimestoppers coming together to launch "Cash for information" to encourage the public to pass on information anonymously about burglars and the handling of stolen goods in return for a financial reward if an arrest and charge is made.
Temporary Detective Superintendent Maria Woodall said "As the clocks go back and it starts to get darker earlier, the number of break-ins goes up. It is known that burglars often target properties that appear to be unoccupied and therefore making sure your home looks and feels like someone is at home can be all that is needed to keep your belongings safe.
"Simple crime prevention measures can really make all the difference, such as leaving a few lights on and not having valuables in view from a window. The majority of burglars are opportunists, and if they have to make a lot of noise, spend a lot of time, or risk being seen, they are likely to go elsewhere"
Surrey Police is giving the following advice to help residents avoid becoming a victim of burglary as the winter months rapidly approach:
· Light up your house – inside and outside. If you are out or away, use timer switches to turn internal lights on and off.
· Make sure your doors are securely locked at all times.
· Close and lock all windows – burglars can wiggle through any gap larger than a human head.
· Fit locks at the top and bottom of patio doors.
· A visible burglar alarm will make a burglar think twice. Make sure you set your alarm every time you leave your house.
· Never leave garages or sheds unlocked.
· Fit and lock gates across side and back entrances.
· Be alert to strangers loitering in the street, If you don’t recognise them and they are acting suspiciously, call the police.
· Don’t hide your keys under a mat or a flowerpot – it’s the first place a burglar will look
· Keep an inventory of your valuable property, either on paper or online with a company such as www.immobilise.com
· Use a property marking product to uniquely mark valuable possessions. For more information visit www.securedbydesign.com
· Beware of bogus callers. Use a door chain and check the callers identity carefully. If in doubt, keep them out.
· And finally, if a burglar does get into your home handbags, wallets and car keys are rich pickings so never leave these items in view.

Jamie Robinson Force Crime Reduction & Crime Prevention Design Advisor
Central Neighbourhood Team
Surrey Police
101 ext: 36527
robinson13404@surrey.pnn.police.uk
Surrey Police, PO Box 101, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 9PE
www.surrey.police.uk
Surrey Police – With You, Making Surrey Safer

Olympic Torch Relay

2011-11-07T15:02:00.000Z

Hello,

Today, LOCOG (London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games) has announced the journey of the Olympic Torch in the 70 days leading up to the start of the Games.
The Torch will travel through Surrey on a number of occasions:

10 July – Egham
17 July – Felbridge
20 July – Godstone, Bletchingley, Redhill, Reigate, Dorking, Westcott, Shere, Godalming and Guildford.

The Torch will stay in Guildford during the evening of 20 July for an evening of events at Stoke Park.

Surrey County Council will be working with District and Borough Councils, Surrey Police LOCOG to make the torch relay run as smoothly as possible. This will mostly involve ‘rolling road closures’ that will be reopened as promptly as possible after the torch has passed along a street.
More information about the impact on roads will be provided at a later date.

To find out more about the Torch Relay, visit http://www.gosurrey.info/torch-relay.

Many thanks

2012 Team

Open Committee Meeting Monday, 7th November Leatherhead Institute 7.30pm – 9.00pm

2011-10-30T14:45:00.006Z

Agenda

1. Apologies for absence.

2. Minutes of the 3rd October.

3. Matters arising from Minutes (not covered later in the agenda)

4. Correspondence

5. To receive and consider reports from:
   Environment Subcommittee
    Planning Subcommittee
    HighwaysSubcommittee
    BLeAF (meeting of chairs of Bookham, Leatherhead, Ashtead & Fetcham RAs)
    (If any more are received they will be added to the agenda)

6. Any Other Business
    (None received so far)

Have a Spooktacular Halloween in Leatherhead

2011-10-25T10:21:00.002+01:00

Leatherhead town centre will be taken over by creepy crawlies, stilt walking devils and gargoyles on Monday 31 October when the town once again hosts an afternoon of fun and games for your little ones from 3.30pm to 6.00pm.

Be terrorised (only slightly) by Animazing’s real life creepy crawlies, including snakes, spiders and cockroaches. Be wowed by the stilt walking devils that will tower above the crowds and be mesmerised by the Whizzers; strange sprite-like characters that will glide through the streets. Also, look out for the two gargoyles in the town centre.

Are you feeling lucky? Find the key to the locked treasure chest and you could be in for a treat! But be warned, if you’re unlucky you will be in for a trick. Are you brave enough to find the magic stone in amongst the body parts? How about guessing the name of our real tarantula or testing your aim at skull hoopla? If this isn’t enough, enter the Witch Word Competition and you could be in with the chance of winning a £15 gift voucher.

Students of Therfield School will perform Halloween Hits such as the Monster Mash and the Harry Potter theme tune, while local dance group Poptastic will perform Michael Jackson’s Thriller.

A fancy dress competition for all ages will take place at 4.30pm in the Swan Centre, with prizes for the best costume.

Councillor Kathryn Westwood, Portfolio Holder for Partnerships, said: “Halloween in Leatherhead promises to be lots of fun for the whole family. With the music, fun and games there will be a fantastic atmosphere. The event is a great way for us to reach our communities and encourage residents to support local businesses.”

There will be a small charge for some of the competitions and games. For the safety of residents, the barrier to the High Street will remain closed until 6.30pm.

Cherkley Court Consultation Weekend

2011-10-12T16:57:00.002+01:00

I understand that following the Consultation Weekend in July, Longshot Country Club Ltd is holding another presentation on Friday 14th October & Saturday 15th October at Cherkley Court from 10.00 am till 1.30 pm.

You are not expected to be there for 3½ hours. If you want to know the latest for Longshot's plans for the house and gardens, do look in.

Circus Of The Orient Arrives In Leatherhead

2011-10-05T17:27:00.001+01:00

EXCLUSIVE OFFER

For the first time, a spectacular, fun-packed world-class circus for all the family, the likes of which can only be seen by audiences in major cities - is coming to Leatherhead – for three days only! The Big Top will be at Leatherhead Leisure Centre from Tuesday 25^th October until Thursday 27^th October 2011.

Featuring a galaxy of international circus stars from China, Mongolia, Kyrgyzstan, Bulgaria, Romania and France, Circus Of The Orient, has been specifically designed to visit towns and locations normally considered beyond the reach of circuses of an international standard. Yet its creators, Carol and Phillip Gandey say there will be no compromise in the size or quality of its world-class performance.

Leatherhead audiences can witness the amazing world famous Shaolin Wu Shu Warriors appearing by kind permission of the Abbott of the Shaolin Temple and the Chinese Ministry Of Culture. Blink and you could miss it, such are the lightening reactions of the greatest exponents of martial arts, they stretch the limits of human achievement in this dazzling new production where east meets west.

Other world class artist’s include the sensational springboard acrobatics from the amazing ‘Julio Troupe’, combined with supreme aerialists, ‘Trio Serik’, who will be on hanging straps high in the roof of the Big Top. The beautiful ‘Monalisa’ will provide an element of grace with her aerial showcase.

Encounter the unbelievable somersaults performed on Chinese poles and watch artists dice with death on the cloud swing trapeze, all whilst the spectacular Big Top is echoing with laughter from the antics of our crazy clowns ‘Duo Delbosq’.

HOW TO RECIEVE OFFER

This is your opportunity to receive an exclusive Buy One Adult Ticket And A Child Goes Free*. You can either call 0871 705 5507 (10ppm BT) and quote “Leatherhead KF” OR print this email and take to our Box Office on site at Leatherhead Leisure Centre, KT22 9BL, to book your tickets. Our Box Office is open from Tuesday 25^th October times of 12pm to 8pm.

Offer Valid:

· Wednesday 26^th October show times of 2pm and 4.30pm.

· Thursday 27^th October show times of 2pm and 4.30pm

(*Offer valid on all seats except Rear Tier and valid to all Wednesday and Thursday performances, Subject to availability)

For more information on Circus Of The Orient please go to www.circusoftheorient.com

Open Committee MeetingMonday, 3rd OctoberLeatherhead Institute 7.30pm – 9.00pm

2011-09-26T07:57:00.001+01:00

Agenda

1. Apologies for absence

2. Notice of Matters for Any Other Business

3. Minutes of Meeting on 5th September.

4. Matters Arising,from the minutes which are not on the agenda below.

5. Correspondence

6. Autumn Newsletter

7. Reports from sub-committees:
    Membership
    Environment
    Planning
    Highways

8. Reports from other meetings:
    Leatherhead Highways Forum 30th August.
    Leatherhead & District Forum 15th September
    BLeAF 23rd September
    The Green Mole Forum
    Transition Bookham

9. Any Other Business (as agreed under Item 2)

(The Committee meeting will be preceded by a South Leatherhead Police Panel meeting at 6.45 pm)

Open Committee MeetingMonday, 5th SeptemberLeatherhead Institute 7.30pm – 9.00pm

2011-08-28T21:44:00.004+01:00

1. Apologies for absence

2. Notice of Matters for Any Other Business

3. Minutes of Meeting on 1st August

4. Matters Arising,from the minutes which are not on the agenda below.

5. Correspondence

6. Reports from sub-committees and from other meetings.
    Membership
    Environment
    Planning
    Highways
    Other meetings:
      Leatherhead Highways Forum 30th August.

7. Any Other Business (as agreed under Item 2)

Police warn residents to be wary of bank card scam

2011-08-27T06:51:00.000+01:00

Police warn residents to be wary of bank card scam

Surrey Police is warning residents about an emerging scam in which fraudsters use false pretences to try and get people’s bank cards.

The scam works by the victim initially receiving a phone call, or number of phone calls, from someone claiming to be from their bank. The caller checks the victim’s details, including asking for their pin number, then informs them that they need a new bank card. The victim is advised that someone will be visiting them shortly to collect their old card. A person, dressed to look like a courier, then arrives at the door to take the card.

Detective Sergeant Vicki Morris, who is investigating these incidents, said: "It is important that residents are aware of the tactics used by con-artists. This scam works due to the two pronged approach of first calling the victim on the phone and then visiting their property. If someone turned up at your door and asked you to hand over your bank cards, you would most likely be wary and refuse, but having someone call beforehand to warn you that a ‘courier’ will be coming can make it seem more legitimate.

"I would urge householders never to give out bank details or other personal information over the phone whatever the reason behind the request. Banks would never operate in this way either by phoning or turning up out of the blue. They would write to customers and would expect them to cut up cards personally when they expired.

"This is a worrying scam which is clearly being aimed at the most vulnerable members of our community. I would urge families, friends and carers to explain to others who may be at risk what they should do to protect themselves. If at anytime a resident feels suspicious they should contact Surrey Police as soon as possible."

Anyone with any information about either of these incidents is asked to call Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222, quoting reference MV/11/3469. Alternatively, information can be passed to Crimestoppers, anonymously and free of charge, by calling 0800 555 111.

Grab a compost bin for only £10!

2011-08-22T15:36:00.001+01:00

Following on from an earlier post :

Grab a compost bin for only £10!

What: Surrey Waste Partnership’s home composting team will take their roadshow to Leatherhead Leisure Centre car park where they will be selling compost bins at the bargain price of just £10. Pick up step-by-step guides and trouble-shooting advice for free too, from our composting experts.

When: Thursday 25th August, 11.00am to 16.00pm

Context: Home composting is an essential part of Surrey’s waste minimisation campaign and has an important role to play in achieving a reduction in the amount of garden and food waste that is disposed of. Out of a total 514,000 tonnes of household waste currently produced in Surrey each year, it's estimated that around a third could be composted which would save the county an estimated £10 million in green waste disposal costs each year. Visit www.surreywastepartnership.org.uk.

Ride The Route 4 September 2011

2011-08-21T11:32:00.002+01:00

Ride the Route Sportive 4 September 2011
Information sheet
August 2011

Introduction
Ride the Route (RTR) is a non-competitive participation cycle ride taking place on 4 September 2011 for experienced cyclists. The route follows a 65 mile circuit based on the 2012 Olympic Road Race route within Surrey only.

Frequently asked questions
Q. Is this a cycle race like the London-Surrey Cycle Classic?
No, RTR is a Sportive (sometimes called a cycle-sportive), it is not a race. Cyclists take part in this ride at their leisure. Many other Sportives take place within Surrey every year.

Q. When did you start planning this event?
We started looking at organising this event in February 2011

Q. What is the exact route?
We do not give out details of the exact route until the day. This is to allow for any safety or emergency diversions.

Q. How many riders will be taking part?
We will have a clearer idea 7 days prior to the event but currently we expect a maximum of 500.
Ride Estimated Timing:
Riders leave East Molesey
Between 6:00 – 8:00
Ride Box Hill
From 07:00 – 12:00
Riders return to East Molesey
Between 10:00 – 14:30

Q. Which roads will be closed?
RTR takes place on open roads, no roads are closed.

Q. What has been done to minimise disruption to other road users?
We have picked an early Sunday morning start when most people take a more relaxed approach to their day. The date has been changed to ensure a gap between the London-Surrey Classic and RTR. The riders set off in staggered waves rather than all in one go.

Q. Have you been in touch with the National Trust?
Yes we have permission to use their private road.

Q. How many barriers will line the route?
We will not be using barriers on open public roads, these are not needed.

Q. Why has there been a delay in getting information out to areas where the ride passes?
We have had to wait to ensure both the safety procedures and date was confirmed otherwise the information we supplied may have been incorrect.

Q. How many spectators will be on the route?
We do not expect any spectators on the route, as this is not a race.

Q. Is it open to anyone?
Due to the nature of the route and the need to ensure safety we stipulate that those entering are experienced cyclists (not beginners) and 18 years of age or over.

Q. What safety measures are in place?
Safety is of paramount importance to us. We have been working with the Police, National Trust and Local Authorities and they are fully satisfied with our safety measures. The route has been fully risk assessed and we have gone above and beyond the government guidance for this type of event. This includes:
• Sign posted route
• First Aid and Paramedic support
• Two ambulances in attendance
• Static marshals
• Moto marshals
• Mechanical support
• Ride doctor

Q. What will you be doing to stop riders causing blockages and riding in groups spanning the road?
Riders will be given printed information to ensure they respect other road users and reminded that they must ride in accordance with the Highway Code. They will also be briefed before they set off to ensure they have received this information both in written and verbal format. We will highlight the more challenging parts of the route.
We will have static marshals and members of the National Escort Group (Moto marshals) that will help regulate the riders.

Q. When will the signage go up?
We will be using temporary signage. This will be in place before the ride starts and will be removed in sequence after the last rider has left the start point.

Q. The riders have timing chips surely you are encouraging them to race?
Not at all, it is essential we can identify riders in case of an accident and that we know that they have set off and returned to the start/finish point. In addition we have marshals who will be instructing riders to slow their speed at certain points if necessary.

Q. How are you helping areas that already see an increase in cyclists?
Anyone can legally ride a bike on an open road. Ride the Route offers a safe regulated platform for those who may already be thinking about following this route. 84% of current cyclists signed up to ride are local to the areas this ride passes.

Q. Who do I get in touch with if I have a question?
This event is organised by Active Surrey. Active Surrey is the Sport England funded strategic lead sports development agency for Surrey (hosted by Surrey County Council).
Please email info@ridetheroute.com or active.surrey@surreycc.gov.uk
Tel. 01483 518944

Surrey CC Composting Event

2011-08-21T08:59:00.000+01:00

From the comms department at Surrey Council Council:

"Our composting team are holding a bargain bin sale 25th August in Leatherhead (£10 only!)"

No more details at the moment.

Watch out, watch out - Mrs Wu is about!

2011-08-20T17:40:00.004+01:00

I've just got back from holiday and find I have a letter from a Mrs. Grace Wu, who describes herself as a private investment banker. She tells me that somone with my surname instructed her to lodge $21 Million in some Chinese bank to be used for an investment in some business or other; and these funds were invested and have increased in value.

Several years later the Bank reported to her that the funds remained untouched and when she investigated further it turned out that the investor had only gone and got himself killed in a hiking accident in mainland China. Not only that - he died intestate and now Mrs. Wu wants to do a deal with me so that she and I can share these unclaimed million of dollars!!

Wahoooo!! I'm in the money - I'm in the money!!

Well, no, not exactly. She tells me that to save her getting into trouble all of this must remain confidential and I mustn't tell anyone about it - not even you who are reading this.

But I am telling you this because it is a scam. If you get such a letter, do NOT reply to it! Once she (if, indeed, it is a she at all) has your bank details you will be cleaned out of all the money in your bank account.

A quick look on the Internet will soon reveal many people with "the same surname" as you, and you and you have also invested $21 Million in some Chinese bank and died intestate, having died in a hiking accident in Mainland China (obviously a dangerous place to go hiking!).

The sad thing about these scam letters (and emails) is that these criminals work on the numbers game - if they send out enough of this drivel there will always be some gullible soul out there that will be taken in and will lose their hard earned cash to these vermin. Don't let it be you - and please warn your friends about this.

Parking on the Olympic Cycling Route

2011-07-31T07:34:00.000+01:00

The County Council will be actively putting flyers on all cars parked along the cycle route on 31 July and 7 August as advanced warning that the London-Surrey Cycle classic will be coming through and that vehicles parked on the route on Sunday 14 August will be towed.

Designing Out crime

2011-07-31T07:23:00.002+01:00

Public Consultation 22^nd July to 2^nd September 2011.

Surrey Police is working with Mole Valley District Council to produce a planning guide on Designing out Crime.

Designing out Crime will be a practical guide for developers, householders and anyone else with an interest in new development.

The aim is to help people understand how to design new development in ways that will reduce opportunities for crime and anti-social behaviour. As a result, new developments should feel safe, helping to reduce the fear of crime.

The guidelines will cover issues such as designing security measures in a way that is sympathetic to the surroundings, laying out development so that it doesn’t create hiding places or escape routes for criminals, and fostering a sense of pride and ownership within new streets and public spaces, so that residents feel secure.

Members of the public and other interested parties are invited to read and comment on Designing out Crime.

A draft version will be available from 22^nd July, on the Council’s website at www.molevalley.gov.uk/ldf

Copies will also be available for public inspection at:

The Council Offices at Pippbrook, Dorking
Libraries in the District
The Help Shop in Leatherhead

Olympic Test Event Final Drop-In Session

2011-07-27T10:46:00.001+01:00

Dear All

This is just a reminder that the final drop-in session for the Olympic Cycle race test event on Sunday 14 August is happening this Friday - 29th July at Park House in Leatherhead. The session runs from 3pm to 8pm and is an opportunity for anyone to pop in and ask questions about road closures, crowd management, footpaths, access or whatever is of interest/concern to residents and/or businesses. Representatives from the District Council (me!), the County Council, Transport for London and LOCOG should be there.

Please do encourage as many people as possible to come in and ask any questions they may have. For those who cannot make it, Surrey County Council have a dedicated website for the Olympic Games at www.gosurrey.info which contains a wealth of information and there is some more generic information, including information on how to volunteer for next year's races, on the District Council website. Please follow this link:

www.molevalley.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=10638

These pages will be updated and added to as we move forward towards the main events next year.

Kind regards

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155

Open Committee Meeting Monday, 1st August Leatherhead Institute 7.30pm – 9.00pm

2011-07-24T07:22:00.003+01:00

Agenda

1. Apologies for absence

2. Notice of Matters for Any Other Business

3. Minutes of Meeting on 4th July

4. Matters Arising from the Minutes which are not on the agenda below.

5. Correspondence

6. Reports from sub-committees and from other meetings.
    Membership
    Environment
    Planning
    Highways
   Other meetings

7. Publicity on the LRA website & blog

8. Any Other Business (as agreed under Item 2)

(The meeting will be preceded by the South Leatherhead Police Panel Meeting at 6.45 pm)

Your Buses, Your Say…Surrey Bus Review Phase 3

2011-07-19T20:41:00.003+01:00

Surrey County Council will shortly be consulting on bus service changes in Epsom & Ewell, Mole Valley, Waverley and some services in Guildford. This will be phase 3 of the County Councils 3-year Bus Review Programme, which started in 2010.

We will run a three-month public consultation from 1 November 2011 to 31 January 2012 for your comments on the proposals that we put forward. Comments from the actual bus users form an important part of the process and will assist us in designing the revised network. We would therefore like to hear your comments and views.

Feedback from the consultation process and the costs of the revised services will then be included in a proposal that will be submitted to Surrey County Council's cabinet, who will make the final decision. Changes to services will take effect in September 2012.

From 1st November 2011 details about the proposals to bus services, how to feed your comments in to the review and further information about the review process will be available at www.surreycc.gov.uk/busreview. This website will also have details on the consultation sessions that will be held locally to discuss the proposals and listen to your individual views and suggestions.

Tickets for Zig-Zag

2011-07-18T18:51:00.002+01:00

Dear All

This is to let you know that Mole Valley District Council has been allocated 460 tickets for residents to watch the London-Surrey Cycle Classic from the coveted zig-zag area on Box Hill. We will be allocating a small number to Headley Court and the rest will be available for residents to apply for through a competition.

The competition goes live tomorrow at approximately 12 noon (possibly slightly earlier). It will be online at www.mole-valley.gov.uk and hard copy forms will be available at the Leatherhead HelpShop and Pippbrook reception. Terms and Conditions apply. The closing date is 12 noon on 27 July, after which time winners will be picked from all correct entries, where Terms and Conditions have been agreed to and contact details supplied.

Please encourage your residents to apply, as long as they are willing to commit to coming and recognise that it is a long walk from the station or a car park to the zig-zag area!

Kind regards

Louise

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155
www.molevalley.gov.uk

Proposed Road Works for the Olympic Cycle Route

2011-07-02T13:23:00.000+01:00

Dear All

We have received this alert from Surrey County Council regarding Highways work connected to the Olympic Test Event on 14 August 2011 and the Olympic Cycle Race on 28 and 29 July 2012. Please note items 4 and 5 which fall under Mole Valley.

Surrey County Council is hosting Olympic Cycle Events in 2012 with one of these events being the Men's/Women s Cycle Road Race (28/29 July 2012). Ahead of this event there is a Test Event for the Cycle Road Race (known as the London-Surrey Cycle Classic), which is to be held on 14 August 2011.

To allow cyclists to safely negotiate the Road Race course the race organisers (LOCOG – London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games) require the removal of various elements of highway infrastructure (islands etc).

These are to be removed and replaced with a temporary feature (such as water filled barriers or white lining) for a short 1-2 week period which can removed immediately before the Test Event. Following the Test Event and before the main 2012 Road Race a semi-permanent replacement feature will be installed (such as rubberised kerbing or white lining). This will again be removed before the 2012 event, following which a permanent replacement feature will be installed.

These works have been discussed and agreed with Surrey Police and the County’s Safety Audit Team. Similar works are also to be undertaken in the areas of London through which the race passes.

The funding for highway works associated with the Olympics is separate from Surrey County Council Highways budgets and has no impact on the availability of funding for highway schemes/initiatives across the county or any individual local committee area.

Officers have been working with LOCOG to minimise the extent of the works, which have now been identified and are being passed to the county’s contractor (May Gurney and Skansa) to progress.

The works listed below are those identified for the Test Event, further works may be identified for the 2012 Road Race event following assessment of the Test Event.

The purpose of writing is to inform you of the locations, reasons and timescales for these works.

The works listed below are to be undertaken in July 2011 with advance electrical works commencing in late June 2011. All of the works are planned to be completed by the 31 July (2 weeks before the Test Event).

Works will be carried out off peak during the working day to minimise traffic disruption and inconvenience to residents. Vehicular and pedestrian access to residential and business premises will be maintained at all times and local residents will be informed of the works as for all of the county’s highway works.

List of works and locations

1. Oatlands Drive, Weybridge - Remove/replace all small existing build outs on existing cycle lane (the central refuge islands can remain). With a fast moving peloton of riders there is not enough road space for competitors to negotiate the street furniture and therefore the build outs need to be removed.

2. Oatlands Drive junction with Queens Road, Weybridge - Remove/replace section of central splitter island in Queens Road. To allow the competitors to enter Hanger Hill without having to negotiate a sharp turn the central island will have a section removed. This will allow riders to turn from Oatlands Drive into Queens Road and line up with Hanger Hill safely.

3. Parvis Road junction with Brooklands Road – Remove lane splitter island on A245 Parvis Road and replace with road markings. The riders will be travelling at high speed into the junction, due to the camber of the A245 and the location of raised kerbs on the south side of the junction, the riders will take the racing line through the junction and removal of the splitter island is needed.

4. A24 junction with A25 Deepdene Roundabout – Remove/replace part of the splitter island on south west side at junction. This is required to assist with the Traffic Management for the event and allow vehicles to manoeuvre around the roundabout and minimise a full road closure at this junction.

5. Leret Way, Leatherhead – Remove/replace central pedestrian refuge island. The riders will be travelling at high speed by this stage of the race. The riders would not have time to safely split around the island and then be in the correct position to make the turn into Bull Hill.

If you have any queries or would like any additional information please email london2012@surreycc.gov.uk with the subject heading Highway Works Enquiry.

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155
www.molevalley.gov.uk

Open Committee Meeting on Monday, 4th July in the Leatherhead Institute 7.30pm – 9.00pm

2011-06-26T05:44:00.003+01:00

Agenda

1. Apologies for absence

2. Notice of Matters for Any Other Business

3. Minutes of Committee Meeting on 6th June

4. Matters Arising,from the minutes which are not on the agenda below.

5. Correspondence

6. Localism

7. Reports from sub-committees and from other meetings.
   - Membership
   - Environment
   - Planning
   - Highways
   - Other meetings

8. Any Other Business (as agreed under Item 2)

Olympic Road Race - update

2011-06-24T13:19:00.000+01:00

The County Council have planned some drop-in sessions to provide residents and businesses with an opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the Olympic Cycle Road Race that is coming to Mole Valley on the 28th and 29th July 2012 and more immediately about the test event known as the London-Surrey Cycle Classic which will take place on Sunday 14th August 2011.

The first of these sessions is planned for next week so I thought I would give you all the 'heads up'. The actual schedule is as follows:

23 June 3pm to 8pm Mickleham Village Hall

28 June 2pm to 8pm Headley Village Hall

30 June 3pm to 9pm Box Hill Village Hall

12 July 3pm to 8pm Dorking Halls, Masonic Room

29 July 3pm to 8pm Park House, Leatherhead

I understand from County that a representative from them will attend along with a member of the Surrey Highways team. Someone from the London 2012 Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) will also attend and I, or one of my team, will be there too.

It is expected that a press release will go out about this on Monday but I felt it important to notify you before the weekend so you could have the chance to let as many of your residents know as you can.

Whilst writing to you, I can also let you know that a cycling organisation has set up a website called 'ridetheroute.com'. They are encouraging cyclists to sign up to ride the Olympic cycle route on 7th August 2011. At present I don't know any more about this but we are investigating. I also understand that Surrey Police are aware of this event.

Kind regards

Louise

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155

Surrey Waste Partnership: Get composting

2011-06-18T07:06:00.006+01:00

Spring into composting

Whether you’re a keen gardener or just want to choose the greenest, most natural way to deal with your food and garden waste, composting is the perfect solution.

Grass cuttings, dried leaves, twigs and vegetable peelings are just some of the ingredients that can go into a compost bin or heap to make peat-free compost – ideal to use in potting or planting in your garden or allotment.

Getting started is easy. All you need is a compost bin or a small space in the garden to create a heap. Then just follow our easy guide to creating your own supply of natural food for your garden.

Get composting today – for a greener tomorrow.

Why compost?

Compost is a natural, nutrient-rich food product for your garden. It will help improve soil structure, maintain moisture levels, and keep your soil's PH balance in check while helping to suppress plant disease. It will have everything your plants need including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and will help buffer soils that are very acidic or alkaline. Compost improves your soil's condition and your plants and flowers will love it!

Because home-made compost is peat-free, it’s good for the environment outside your garden too. It reduces the need to buy peat products, which have been commercially sourced and extracted from peat bogs, resulting in the release of stored carbon from the bogs.

A step-by-step guide

1.Find the right site. Site your bin or heap in the garden on bare soil. If space is limited, put your bin on concrete, tarmac or patio slabs; but make sure there’s a layer of soil or existing compost on the bottom so garden creatures can colonise.
2. Add the right ingredients. Fill your kitchen caddy with the right ingredients such as tea bags, taking care not to compost cooked food, meat or fish.
3. Fill it up. Empty your kitchen caddy and your garden waste into your bin or heap. A 50/50 mix of greens and browns is the perfect recipe for good compost.
4. After 9-12 months. The ingredients you have put in your bin or heap should have turned into a dark brown, earthy smelling material at the bottom of the bin, which can be dug out, with the newer material being left. But don’t worry if your compost looks a little lumpy with twigs and bits of eggshells – this is perfectly normal. Simply sift out any bits and return them to your bin or heap.
5. Ready! Once your compost resembles thick, moist soil and smells very earthy, it’s ready to use.
6. Collect the compost. Instructions will be delivered with your bin. But all you have to do is lift the bin slightly or open the hatch at the bottom and scoop out the fresh compost with a garden fork or spade. If you have built your own, simply rake out the ready compost.
7. Use it. And watch your garden bloom. Compost can be used for all your planting needs – vegetable plants for allotments; general potting (if mixed with something like ordinary soil); flowerbeds and enriching new borders by mixing in existing soil; or around trees by spreading a layer around the roots. Or use it as mulch material, mix with a layer of soil, and help prevent plant diseases.

Get started

To find out more about how to build yourself a compost heap, or to buy a bin, starting from only £14.00 visit www.surreywastepartnership.org.uk or call 0844 571 4444. You’ll also find lots of other helpful tips and information there too.

Olympic Torchbearers - nominations open

2011-06-09T17:23:00.000+01:00

Dear All

You may have seen on the news that the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) are looking for 8000 truly inspirational people to be Olympic Torch bearers. The Olympics are of course particularly significant for Mole Valley as we have the honour of hosting a large part of the Cycle Road Race on 28th and 29th July 2012 and we think it would be a great opportunity if some of the torch bearers were from Mole Valley.

The purpose of this email is to let you know that you will shortly receive a letter or email from our Chief Executive encouraging you and your residents to make a nomination for the Torch relay. I wanted to let you know today that this will be forthcoming as the closing date is, unfortunately, on the 29th June - so there isn't much time.

We do hope that you will be able to encourage your residents to make a nomination. I realise that time is against us, but nonetheless, this is a great opportunity and one we wanted to make sure you knew about. For your information, the website is www.london2012.com/olympic-torch-relay but Darren's letter will explain more.

Kind regards

Louise

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155
www.molevalley.gov.uk

Open Committee Meeting on Monday, 6th June in the Leatherhead Institute 7.30pm – 9.00pm

2011-05-30T06:36:00.003+01:00

Agenda

1. Apologies for absence

2. Notice of Matters for Any Other Business

3. Minutes of:
    - Open Meeting held on 4th April 2011
    - Committee Meeting held on 24th May 2011

4. Matters Arising,from the minutes which are not on the agenda below.

5. Correspondence

6. Reports from sub-committees and from other meetings.
    - Membership
    - Environment
    - Planning
    - Highways
    - Other meetings

7. Matters raised by the Committee:
    - Summer Newsletter
    - Seats for the Elderly
    - Provision of “Doggy Bins”
    - Tree Preservation Orders

8. Any Other Business (as agreed under Item 2)

The meeting will be proceeded by a Police Panel beginning, I believe, at 6.50 pm

Mole Valley District Council and Social Media

2011-05-10T07:33:00.003+01:00

Yesterday I received the following from Louise Bircher of Mole Valley District Council:
----------------------------------------------------------------
I am hoping to canvass your and your residents' views on how Mole Valley District Council uses social media please. By this I mean our website (www.molevalley.gov.uk), Twitter (@molevalleydc), Facebook (facebook.com/molevalleydc), YouTube and, more recently QR codes. We are wanting to engage with as wide range an audience as possible so, in addition to the traditional methods of magazine, leaflets, posters and information available over the telephone and face to face, we are also making use of these aforementioned social media engagement tools.

Our Twitter and YouTube accounts have been live for about six months and our followers are steadily growing. I would like to know whether or not you and your residents make use of these forms of communication and whether you find them useful? Are there other forms of social media you would like to see us using? Or could we use what we use now more effectively?

I would be most grateful if you could encourage your residents to consider this and let me have their views - perhaps through your newsletter if one is imminent or via your website or whatever means you consider appropriate...
----------------------------------------------------------------

Louise would like to collate all responses by Friday 20th May. If you have any observations please add them as comments.

Thank you.

Olympic Road Cycling events in 2012

2011-05-09T17:26:00.001+01:00

In March we contacted you with news that Surrey had been chosen to host the men’s and women’s Olympic Road Cycling events in 2012 and also the test event this year on Sunday 14 August.

At the time of the announcement, exact details of the Olympic Road Cycling route had not been finalised and so we were unable to share with you the map of the route. We now have the route confirmation and attached with this email is a PDF of the first Road Race Newsletter, which will be distributed to residents living close to the route from next week. This includes a map showing road names and numbers, as well as other useful information about the races.

We hope you find the newsletter helpful and interesting. If you’d like to know more about how Surrey is celebrating and preparing for the Games visit our website www.gosurrey.info.

Kind regards

2012 Team

Surrey 2012 Team¦ Surrey County Council¦ Penrhyn Road¦ Kingston upon Thames¦ KT1 2DN¦ www.gosurrey.info¦ olympic.cycling@surreycc.gov.uk¦

Surrey - Host County - Be part of it

Annual General Meeting Monday, 9th May 2011 Leatherhead Institute at 7.30 pm

2011-04-23T06:41:00.004+01:00

Agenda
1. Apologies for absence
2. Minutes of the AGM held on 10th May 2010
3. Matters arising from the Minutes.
4. Chairman’s Report
5. Treasurer’s Report
6. Amendment of Constitution:

i.To append ", or otherwise with the approval of the Executive Committee" to clause 3 (Membership), so that the clause will read:

Membership shall be open to anyone aged 18 or over and residing in the area of benefit who supports the objects of the Association, or otherwise with the approval of the Executive Committee.

ii.To change "EIGHT" in the first sentence of Clause 7 (The Executive Committee) to "FOUR" so that the sentence will read:

The Executive Committee of the Association, referred to above and hereinafter as “the Committee,” to whom the general management of the Association’s affairs shall be entrusted, shall consist of the Officers and not less than FOUR and not more than SIXTEEN other members of the Association.

7. That the monthly meetings of the Association shall normally be open Committee meetings.
(This is explained in the Spring Newsletter.)
8. Election of Officers: Chair, Vice-Chair, Treasurer, Secretary
(Officers in 2010 were: Hubert Carr, Hilary Porter, Paula Sabine, Ray Brown)
9. Election of Committee members
(Members in 2010 were: Cheryl Allen, Fran Barnby-Smith, Caroline Brown, Ann Cardew, Flip Cargill)
10. Reports from sub-groups

(a) Membership
(b) Environment
(b) Planning
(c) Highways

11. Summer Newsletter
12. Any Other Business

Singing Surrey: Leatherhead’s New Community Choir

2011-04-01T17:32:00.001+01:00

This spring residents in North Leatherhead are invited to get involved in a new community choir organised by Mole Valley District Council and Arts Partnership Surrey. The choir has been set up as part of the county-wide ‘Singing Surrey’ community arts project, which aims to develop new singing groups that are supported and owned by the community.

The North Leatherhead Singing Surrey choir offers residents regular singing practice and the opportunity to learn different styles of music and gain new singing skills. Sessions will be informal and attendees will rehearse and perform a wide variety of music. The choir is also open to suggestions from members for new music, giving the community the unique chance to choose how their choir develops. No previous experience is needed and all ages are welcome, although children must be accompanied by an adult.

The Singing Surrey group will be led by Olivia McLennan, a community musician dedicated to empowering and developing the musical skills of others. Olivia studied music at City University and Goldsmiths, University of London and has a wide range of experience developing diverse and exciting community music projects.

As well as encouraging the community to take ownership of their choirs, the county-wide Singing Surrey project aims to develop new singing leaders in Surrey who will support the new singing groups and build new projects for the county in the future.

Research will be undertaken throughout the project that will explore the benefits of singing to a person’s health and wellbeing. This will help to promote the benefits of community choirs, and encourage more people to get involved in Singing Surrey.

Patrick McCord, Partnerships and Development Manager, said: “Singing Surrey offers a high-quality singing experience for residents in North Leatherhead, promoting wellbeing and social inclusion. The health benefits of singing are well documented and I hope that lots of residents will get involved and reap the rewards.”

Singing Surrey takes place every Tuesday evening during term time from 6.30pm - 8.00pm at the Leatherhead Children’s Centre on Aperdele Road, Leatherhead, KT22 7QT, from Tuesday 10 May 2011.

Agenda for Meeting on Monday, 4th April at 7.30 pm in the Letherhead Institute

2011-03-28T18:12:00.002+01:00

1. Apologies

2. Minutes of the 7th March meeting

3. Matters arising from the Minutes

4. Police Report

5. Reports from subgroups
   a. Membership
   b. Environment
   c. Planning
   d. Highways

6. AOB

Breath of Life 2011: Be the difference: learn to save a life.

2011-03-28T09:04:00.000+01:00

St John Ambulance in Surrey is holding its annual Breath of Life first aid training day for the public on 2 April, 10am - 3pm.

Our goal? To show over 1,500 more people how to save a life in an emergency. These are simple skills everyone should know: how you can be the difference between a life lost and a life saved.

Faced with an emergency, would you know what to do?

This year, the free training sessions will be held at 15 venues across Surrey one more than last year. The 30 minute drop-in sessions will take place in Ash Vale, Caterham, Cobham, Camberley, Cranleigh, Dorking, Epsom, Farnham, Haslemere, Horley, Guildford, Leatherhead, Reigate, Woking and Walton-upon-Thames.

To check the venue details, phone 01483 450000, option 3.

St John Ambulance believes that no-one should suffer from the lack of life-saving first aid knowledge and over the last few years, our Surrey volunteers have trained thousands of members of the public, free, in how to assess a casualty; put them in the recovery position; clear their airway and administer chest compressions and the breath of life.

There is no need to book. Bring the whole family and just turn up on the day children, grandparents anyone can learn how to save a life in an emergency. The sessions last just half an hour. They are free - but what price can we put on a life?

Breath of Life Venues 2011:

· Ash Vale - Ash Community Centre

· Camberley - The Atrium Shopping Centre

· Caterham - St John HQ, Timber Hill Road

· Cobham - Sacred Heart Catholic Church Hall (opposite Waitrose), 25 Between Streets

· Cranleigh - Cranleigh Village Hall

· Dorking - Harpers, Dorking Sports Centre, Reigate Road

· Epsom - Ebbisham Centre, 67 Derby Square

· Farnham - St John HQ, The Hart

· Guildford - Guildford Spectrum

· Haslemere - Haslemere Town Hall, High Street

· Horley - St John HQ, Massetts Road Car Park

· Leatherhead - Nuffield Health, Fitness & Well-being Centre, The Crescent

· Reigate - Reigate Priory School, Bell Street

· Walton-on-Thames - Walton Leisure Centre, Waterside Drive

· Woking - Woking Pool in the Park, Kingfield Road

Mole Valley District Council - Shaping Your Community

2011-03-13T19:35:00.003Z

On 13th December 2010 the Government announced its Localism Bill. This was the first stage in an important process which over the next few years will see the structure of the planning system being 'radically' reformed.

How the Localism Bill and the changes in the planning system impact on the preparation of the Mole Valley Local Development Framework (LDF) is an extremely important issue for the Council and its communities. The Council has therefore prepared a Discussion Paper outlining a number of key issues that need to be considered.

The Council is seeking views on this Paper from Friday 4th March until Friday 8th April 2011. The Discussion Paper and Comments Form can be downloaded from www.molevalley.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=11716

Also there will be a longer article on Localism by our Chairman in the LRA Spring Newsletter. Please read it.

Future "Transition" events

2011-03-12T22:32:00.005Z

The following were to be included in our Spring Newsletter; unfortunately it has been delayed by two weeks, so while there's still time ....

Wednesday, March 16th: Transition Bookham meeting

7.30pm to 9.30pm at St Nicolas Church’s Pastoral Centre.
A talk on "Gardening for Bees" with a honey bee keeper speaker from Epsom.

Saturday 19th March: Compost Works Open Day

2.00pm - 5.30pm at 8 The Drive, Fetcham, KT22 9EN. Admission free. For more information visit www.compostworks.org.uk/news.htm

Hopefully, the Newsletter will be out in time for the next announcement, but just in case ....

Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th March: Surrey Eco-house event

Action Surrey, an organisation set up by Woking Borough Council, is organising this event to inspire the public and homeowners to learn about energy saving measures and renewable technology from those who have already been there and done it.
Viewing a Surrey Green Home is free but booking is strictly required. Please visit www.actionsurrey.org/surreygreenhomes to find out more and book free tickets

Help Stop Surrey's proposal to cease FREE parking in Towns and Villages

2011-03-01T11:28:00.000Z

Your Market Towns and larger villages in Surrey need your help, and they need it now.

Surrey County Council proposes to remove the FREE on-street parking in the centre of our towns and villages,install machines to issue half hour parking tickets at 50-70p, and enforce payment!

The cost of doing this could be considerable for the return, but the folly is in what it could destroy.

We could lose a lot of the remaining vitality in our High Streets people will stop that quick pop and shop, and just shop where parking is free.

If you don’t want to see that, Please sign the ePetition on the www.surreycc.gov.uk website AND tell your friends.

The Petition URL is http://petitions.surreycc.gov.uk/ParkingCharges

This is on www.wurreycc.gov.uk until the 23^rd March, as the Council will be reviewing this matter soon

- so Act now or lose FREE High Street Parking in a town near you!

If we do nothing that is what we will get.

Lets pass a message to Surrey CC that we have had enough of them messing around with the vitality of our market towns and Larger Villages.

Source:

Caroline Salmon

The WOW! Gallery , 78 South Street, Dorking, RH4 2HD

Tel: 01306 743 403 Mobile: 0771 293 2630 Fax: 01306 713 300

email: caroline.salmon@thewowgallery.co.uk

Agenda for Meeting on Monday, 7th March at 7.30 pm in the Letherhead Institute

2011-02-28T06:23:00.003Z

1. Apologies

2. Ratification of Minutes of 10th January & 7th February

3. Matters arising from the Minutes of 7th February

4. North Leatherhead Community Group -
   presentation by guest speaker, Simon Woodhams, North Leatherhead Project Worker

5. Reports from sub-groups.
   (a) Membership
    (b) Environment
   (c) Planning
   (d) Highways

6. AGM & Newsletter

7. AOB

Home security cold callers warning

2011-02-16T17:18:00.000Z

Surrey Police and local Trading Standards are warning residents to be wary of cold callers who initially make contact by phone, claiming they work with local agencies to provide home security systems.

In the past few weeks, a number of residents across the county have reported receiving a cold call about home security and the caller then tries to sell home security products or offers them a free burglar alarm.

During the call it is implied that the company is, either working directly with the local authorities including the police, or undertaking research on their behalf. Some have also claimed to guarantee a police response to any alarm activation. The caller will often say that the alarm is free but fails to mention the installation charge and ongoing maintenance agreement. Please note that these companies are not local to Surrey and do not have any specific local knowledge.

Surrey Police is not working in conjunction with any private home security company and we do not endorse particular products. Surrey Trading Standards Service is now investigating the companies involved.

If you are considering installing an intruder alarm system, you can obtain independent home security advice from your local Crime Reduction Advisor, PC 1836 Mike Bessent, by calling Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222.

Call 0845 125 2222 for all non-emergency policing matters.

Call 999 if you have a genuine emergency requiring the attendance of the police (e.g. a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger).

Call independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you have information about crime and don't want to leave your name.

Leatherhead Town Centre Environmental Enhancements

2011-02-09T19:51:00.000Z

Mole Valley District Council and Surrey County Council are considering a range of projects that would be of benefit to Leatherhead town centre.

The projects are intended to support the vitality of the town and improve access and convenience for customers of the many shops, restaurants and businesses. Funding is available to start the process, but both councils are also looking towards the future and the preparation of an action plan or infrastructure plan.

A public consultation has taken place to gauge reaction to priorities for the town and how these priorities might be implemented. The first stage was the circulation of a questionnaire in the autumn of 2010 and a business survey. The results of both surveys are available as downloads from this page.

The second stage was an exhibition mounted at the end of January suggesting what the main priorities should be in the short term. The exhibition is also downloadable from this page. http://www.molevalley.gov.uk/index.cfm?articleid=11577

Comments made during the exhibition will be available shortly. Additional comments are welcome and can be made up until 28th February. A report of this final stage of the consultation with recommendations for future work will be prepared for the County Council's Local Committee on 3rd March and Mole Valley District Council's Executive on 5th April.

The email address for additional comments is ldf@molevalley.gov.uk and should be marked for the attention of Rod Shaw.

Making it in Mole Valley

2011-02-09T19:47:00.000Z

This spring residents in North Leatherhead are invited to get involved in a series of workshops run by professional craft-makers as part of the Making Surrey community project. The project is being organised by Mole Valley District Council and is funded by Arts Partnership Surrey and The National Lottery.

Residents will get the chance to come together, have fun and get creative through workshops, in which they will explore how to solve issues ranging from anti-social behaviour to littering and fly tipping.

During the project, which will run until Christmas time, the craft-makers will take up residency in Leatherhead alongside the community.

There will be opportunities for aspiring or established local artists to develop their skills and volunteer for future community development projects.

There will also be apprenticeships aimed at residents who wish to specialise in community engagement work, with the craft-makers as mentors.

Councillor Vivienne Michael, Portfolio Holder for Wellbeing and Customer Service, said: “The Making Surrey project is a wonderful way for residents to come together to explore ways of solving problems within their community. The Council is proud to be a part of it; it’s a new and exciting way to engage with our residents.”

Workshops will take place in North Leatherhead and involve different community groups, including the new Leatherhead Community Garden at West Hill School. More details will be announced soon.

Seven other Surrey councils are involved in Making Surrey, and are running similar activities for their communities.

In Mole Valley the project is being organised by the Partnerships and Community Development team.

Ends

Media contacts for further information:

Sally Horsburgh

Communications & Marketing Officer

Customer Services & Partnerships

Tel: 01306 879269

Email: sally.horsburgh@molevalley.gov.uk

Agenda for Meeting on Monday, 7th February at 7.30 pm in the Letherhead Institute

2011-01-31T08:23:00.006Z

1. Apologies for Absence

2. Minutes of meeting on 10th January

3. Matters Arising from the Minutes

4. Police report by PCs Gaynor Grout & Chris Lewis

5. "Accident Reduction" -
   presentation by PC Tom Arthur, Mole Valley Casualty Reduction Officer

6. Report on outcome of the Sainsbury's negotiations

7. Town Centre Plan Exhibition

8. Localism and the Vanguard Project

9. Reports from sub Groups
   a) Membership
   b) Planning
   c) Highways

10. Newsletter and AGM

11. Any Other Business

Surrey Police: Crime Prevention Advice - DNA Property Marking

2011-01-26T17:24:00.002Z

THEFT from residential properties in three areas of Surrey has dropped dramatically following the use of forensic property marking solution SelectaDNA by householders.

Burglaries from homes in Guildford, Elmbridge, and Epsom and Ewell, fell on average by 66% in the six months following the launch of the project and 58% when compared to the same time period the previous year.

Following the success of the initiative, part of Surrey Police’s Beat the Burglar campaign, all residents in the county are now being offered the chance to buy a SelectaDNA home property marking kit at a reduced price.

SelectaDNA is a uniquely coded, non-toxic liquid enabling homeowners to ‘forensically mark’ valuable posessions such as laptops, games consoles, jewellery, electrical items and tools. It can also be used to mark property stored outside the home, including garden equipment, pedal cycles etc. Barely visible to the naked eye and almost impossible to remove, the solution glows under ultraviolet (UV) light making it easy for police to detect and return property to the rightful owner, if stolen.

Mole Valley Crime Reduction Advisor, PC Mike Bessent, has been involved in working in our community and demonstrating the benefits of using this product and would recommends its to residents and businesses.

Householders can buy the SelectaDNA home property marking kit at 40% discount until the end of April 2011. Call 01689 860757 or visit www.selectadna.co.uk/surrey-police.html

Surrey Police
Tel: 0845 125 2222

Here we go again....

2011-01-19T14:04:00.004Z

Once more because of thoughtless and inconsiderate parking, the bin lorry was unable to access the the higher part of Oaks Close. Once more we have space left only for a car to pass between the parked cars - forget about lorries or larger vehicles.

Long gone is the time when cars did not park on corners, opposite T-junctions and in other places where they were obviously likely to cause obstruction. Now, if there is not a double-yellow line, motorists will park there - to hell with anyone else.

For Surrey County Council to introduce parking restrictions on neighbouring roads in 2009 and do nothing about the road nearest to the station is, in my opinion, crass negligence. For years, cars parked only on one side of this road; it was so obvious that parking on both sides would block the roadway. Then about four or five years ago, as parking got more difficult, they began parking on both sides.

It is so patently obvious that double yellow lines should have been extended at least up to the turning circle on one side of the road. I have spoken with local police and with people from MVDC and everyone seems to be of much the same opinion. So why wasn't it done? Why hasn't it been done?

Do we have to resort again to making our own unauthorized notice asking cars not to part on one side so that the bin lorry can get through? Do we have persuade the local press to highlight our case again?

Children’s Book Festival - 19 February - 12 March 2011

2011-01-18T17:23:00.001Z

Received from Surrey CC .....

The second Surrey libraries’ Children’s Book Festival begins on Saturday 19 February and continues for 3 fun-filled weeks.

An exciting programme of events for children of all ages will be taking place in libraries throughout Epsom and Ewell, Mole Valley, Reigate and Banstead and Tandridge.

There is a fantastic opportunity to meet Darren Shan, the master of horror, at Bourne Hall, Ewell, on Friday 25 February.

Tony de Saulles, illustrator of the popular Horrible Science books, will be running Horrible Science drawing workshops, and manga fans will be able to develop their technique at our manga workshops run by best-selling cartoonist James Parsons.

Children will also be able to make pop-up books, write ghost stories, create their own monsters, join a Roald Dahl workshop, meet Elmer the Elephant and the Gruffalo, and much, much more.

To see the full programme, and to book tickets, visit www.surreycc.gov.uk/childrensbookfestival. Tickets can also be bought at participating libraries or by calling 01483 543599.

To avoid disappointment, please book your tickets in advance.

We look forward to seeing you at our festival events.

Surrey libraries - inspiring a lifelong love of reading.

Press release on the future of Leatherhead town centre

2011-01-18T17:20:00.000Z

Received from Mole Valley District Council ....

Exhibition Explores Future of Leatherhead Town Centre

Mole Valley District Council and Surrey County Council are working together to make improvements to Leatherhead town centre. Last year they began a consultation on what changes should be made. On Friday 28 and Saturday 29 January the results of the consultation will be explored at an exhibition in Leatherhead.

Nearly 350 people responded to the questionnaire. Questions covered issues such as access and parking in the High Street, the visual appearance of key streets and the allocation of space for events such as the town market.

The exhibition will explore the results of the consultation and look at how the councils’ spending plans can respond to its findings. It is also a chance for residents, visitors and those who work in the town to make suggestions about the key issues surrounding its future and to comment on how the proposals could impact on them.

The exhibition will take place on both days from 10.00am to 4.00pm. On Friday it will reopen in the evening from 6.00pm to 8.00pm. It will be located at 36 Church Street, close to the Church Street car park entrance.

Councillor Chris Hunt, Portfolio Holder for Partnerships at Mole Valley District Council, said:

“We are grateful to everyone who took part in the consultation. The results provide a helpful pointer as to where our priorities should lie. The exhibition allows us to feed back results to the community and encourage further, detailed discussion on how projects that will benefit the town can be designed.”

Tim Hall, Surrey County Council Cabinet Member for Change and Efficiency, said: “It's important that residents are involved in helping us shape the future of Leatherhead town centre. Local people's views are vital because they know the area better then anyone so I would urge them to come along to the exhibition and let us know their thoughts. If we all work together we can ensure Leatherhead continues to thrive for many years to come."

Ends

Media contact for further information:

Sally Horsburgh

Communications & Marketing Officer

Customer Services & Partnerships

Tel: 01306 879269

Email: sally.horsburgh@molevalley.gov.uk

Agenda for Meeting on Monday, 10th January at 7.30 pm in the Letherhead Institute

2011-01-03T11:00:00.003Z

1. Apologies for Absence

2. Minutes of meeting on 1st November 2010

3. Matters Arising from the Minutes

4. "Transition Towns: different flavours of Bookham, Ashtead & Dorking, and why we like living in the Mole Valley"
- presentation by Flip Cargill

5. Reports from sub Groups

   a) Membership

   b) Planning

   c) Highways.

6. Any Other Business

Communicating with Mole Valley

2010-12-09T16:42:00.000Z

Dear All

Further to my email in September regarding 'Communicating with Mole Valley' I am contacting you because we are in the process of putting together a new look version of our magazine Mole Valley news for the March edition.

In it, I would like to run a small amount of local news. I am therefore looking for small articles - no more than 100 words and preferably less, for inclusion. We are intending to run 4 half pages under the following geographical split:

Ashtead/Leatherhead

Bookham/Fetcham

Dorking

Rural (Beare Green, Brockham, Betchworth, Buckland, Headley and Boxhill, Capel/Leigh, Newdigate, Charlwood, Okewood)

We do of course have some updates/information to include ourselves, so any submissions would need to be on the understanding that we will include them if there is space but it would be really useful to include some 'Community News' in our magazine so if you do have any items to offer, please let me have it, and any photos would be lovely too please. Please bear in mind that this will hit doorsteps in March so we need to think ahead!

I am sorry for the short notice but look forward to hearing from you. Please may I have any articles by Friday 17 December.

Thank you

Kind regards

Louise

Louise Bircher
Customer Service and Communications Manager
Mole Valley District Council
Tel: 01306 879155
Email: louise.bircher@molevalley.gov.uk

PUBLIC CONSULTATION NOTICE – PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT 40, 44 & 48 CHURCH STREET, LEATHERHEAD

2010-12-08T20:30:00.000Z

Hague Investments hereby advise that we are holding a Public Consultation to review a new supermarket unit at the above location. The date of the consultation will be Wednesday 15^th December between 12.00 pm and 8.00pm. The consultation will be held in the double vacant units (40-44) on Church Street. We will have our team present on the day to answer any queries or concerns that you may have.

We look forward to seeing you at the venue.

HAGUE INVESTMENTS LTD

LRA Christmas Social

2010-11-28T20:11:00.002Z

The next meeting of the Association is on Monday, 6th December.

As in previous years, this meeting will be a social evening at which members may meet other members, LRA committee members and local Councillors and chat over mince pies, mulled wine and other Christmas fare. Members of local neighbourhood police will, we understand, also drop in when they can.

All members are cordially invited.

Advance notice:
the first meeting of 2011 will be on Monday 10th January (the 3rd is a public holiday).

M25 Improvements Junction 9-10 Update

2010-11-19T17:51:00.000Z

Following on from this post http://lrassociation.blogspot.com/2010/08/highways-agency-m25-motorway-junctions.html the Highways Agency has updated the HA Website with this information.http://www.highways.gov.uk/roads/projects/23473.aspx.
In summary:

: As part of the scheme, existing electronic lane control signing will be upgraded and replaced with more modern information signs and variable mandatory speed limit signs. Many of the existing gantries will be adapted to accommodate the new equipment and some new gantries installed to provide better visibility of the speed limits when they are displayed. This project will extend the current variable speed limit control operating between J10 and J16 and will be installed on both carriageways. When the scheme is finished, drivers will benefit from improved journey reliability, safer driving conditions and reduced driver stress. The system is also beneficial to the environment with recuced levels of vehicle emissions. Estimated completion is for the end of 2011.

Repairs to Footbridge from Ashtead to Leatherhead over M25 & A24

2010-11-17T18:00:00.002Z

From Surrey County Council:

Regarding providing illumination for the footbridge above the Leatherhead-by-pass, we are not in a position to install new lighting due to restrained budget at present. Further information will be available in the next couple of weeks on our website concerning additional street lights. Please visit:

http://www.surreycc.gov.uk/sccwebsite/sccwspages.nsf/LookupWebPagesByTITLE_RTF/Street+lights?opendocument

We notice surface conditions of the footbridge is deteriorating. Repair has been scheduled on 2 December between 7p.m. until 6 a.m. the following day. Please be aware the footbridge will be closed during operation.

Message from Mole Valley Neighbourhood Inspector, Terri Poulton

2010-11-08T15:57:00.002Z

Dear All,

I would like to let you know that there will be some staff moves within the Mole Valley Safer Neighbourhood Team in the New Year. Continuity is very important and the officers moving have all been in their posts for several years. I have to balance continuity with individual officers wishes to develop either by taking on the challenges of a new area or towards promotion. I feel it is important to explain that these moves are not management led but are taking place in order that I can retain all three officers who are, in my view excellent NSOs and assests to Mole Valley whilst satisfying some of their needs in relation to career development.

PC 2188 Chris Lewis will be moving to the Leatherhead town to work alongside PC 2056 Gaynor Grout.

PC 2175 Jason Woods will be moving to cover the Goodwyns,Chartdowns and North Holmwood area.

PC 3239 Fran Davey will be moving to Ashtead

There will be handover periods, the officers are already attending adhoc key meetings on their new areas and Fran will work alongside Jason and then Jason alongside Chris for one month. Finally Chris will join Gaynor in Leatherhead. It is anticipated that the moves will be completed by March 2011.

Sadly we will be loosing PCSO Pete Yard from Goodwyns. Pete has an injury which necessitates him being redeployed to a role which means less walking. I am extremely proud of Pete's achievements within the community and we will be very sad to see him go. In the short term he remains with the team supporting Chris, Lisa and his area from the office. I am working closely with the Force PCSO Manager to secure a suitable replacement.

PCSO Aimee Lucas from the Dorking rural East team is expecting a baby and remains on protected duties until March when she will go onto maternity leave. Aimee continues to support Dom and Ivor from the office and also at engagement events and panel meetings.

Unfortunately PCSO Clive Hudson from the Dorking town team remains on long term sick leave, I know that Clive is missing work and keen to get back. I don't expect to have Clive back and on full duties for some months to come.

PC 2987 Jo Dootson from the Dorking Rural West team will return from maternity leave in January 2011.

PS Rundle and I are very aware that PCSO visibility and resilience is challenging for the teams that work from Dorking although across Mole Valley we are well staffed and where a need arises we will pull resources from other areas to assist.

If you have any questions or concerns please do contact me,

Kind Regards

Terri

Agenda for Meeting on Monday, 1st November at 7.30 pm in the Letherhead Institute

2010-10-27T07:19:00.004+01:00

1. Apologies for Absence

2. Minutes of meeting on 4th October

3. Matters Arising from the Minutes which will not be dealt with on the agenda

4. Police Report from PC Fran Davey

5. Address by special guest PC Tom Arthur, Casualty Reduction Officer

6. Reports from sub Groups:
   a). Membership
   b). Planning
   c). Highway

7. Any Other Business

Hidden History Update

2010-10-25T21:17:00.002+01:00

Following a comment added to the Hidden History post ...

The Hawthorn Leslie 3837 Preservation society has just purchased 3837 from Mole Valley District Council where she has been standing on display for over 25 years behind Leatherhead Leisure Centre. We are now in the process of moving her to her new home where she will be fully overhauled into full working order.
For more infomation go to www.3837.pvsonline.com

Topaz Musical Theatre performs at Fetcham

2010-10-25T20:50:00.002+01:00

Upcoming musical presentation of the works of songwriters Cole Porter,George Gershwin,Jerome Kern and Noel Coward.

The show is 'S'Wonderful' at Fetcham Village Hall on Saturday 6 November at 7.30pm and Saturday 13 November at 7.30pm at Cobham Village Hall. Tickets from 01372 458163 at £9.50 including light refreshments.

Proceeds are in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support.

Contact Alan Berridge 01737 761168

Agenda for Meeting on Monday, 4th October at 7.30 pm in the Letherhead Institute

2010-09-27T17:29:00.004+01:00

1. Apologies for Absence

2. Minutes of meeting on 6th September

3. Matters Arising from the Minutes which will not be dealt with on the agenda

4. Anecdotes from a
  One-Time Planning Inspector -
  presentation by Hubert Carr

5. Reports from sub Groups:
   a). Membership
   b). Planning
   c). Highway

6. Autumn Newsletter

7. Any Other Business

Agenda for Meetings on Monday, 6th September, at 7.30 in the Letherhead Institute

2010-08-30T19:10:00.005+01:00

Special General Meeting:

To amend Clause 7 of the Constitution so that it reads:: "The Executive Committee of the Association, referred to above and hereinafter as “the Committee,” to whom the general management of the Association’s affairs shall be entrusted, shall consist of the Officers and not less than FIVE other members of the Association"

(This is explained in the Summer Newsletter; please make an effort to attend as we need to be quorate in order to pass this motion.)

Open General Meeting
1. Apologies for Absence
2. Minutes of meeting on 2nd August
3. Matters Arising from the Minutes which will not be dealt with on the agenda
4. Special Guests: PC Fran Davey & PS Simon Cox of Surrey Police

Recent Crime Statistics
Safety Tips
Open Question Time
Selection of Topic for Special Police Attention

5. Reports from sub Groups:

a). Membership
b). Planning
c). Highway

6. Any Other Business

One Chuch Road - demolition begins - including public road sign

2010-08-23T15:14:00.003+01:00

Looks like the removal of name plate for Church Road was the first inconvenience for local residents. Lets hope that the Demolition Contractors reinstate this as soon as possible to allow delivery vehicles a chance of finding Church Road. Planning Enforcement officers were not interested. Are all these advertising hoardings really necessary in a Conservation area ?

Today a delivery lorry -tomorrow an ambulance?

2010-08-16T19:16:00.016+01:00

Here are two photographs I took earlier this afternoon as the latest 'victim' to be denied access to Oaks Close gets stuck.

A bit stuck there on the left! Any better on the right? Well, no! It's stuck there as well. A bit frustrating though, after loading up and bringing the stuff from Sutton.

Wasting people's time loading and trying to deliver undeliverable loads and keeping people waiting at the other end as they wait for supplies to continue work is one thing. But supposing the vehicle had been an ambulance; the delay while the vehicle is abandoned and paramedics have to make their way on foot could be the difference between someone's life and death!

Doesn't Surrey County Council Care? Could not the Councillors and officers have worked out that if they introduced parking restrictions in neighbouring roads but did nothing in the road nearest the Station it would only exacerbate the already existing problems in that road? Couldn't they?

The cynics say they knew exactly what they were doing. Being piqued because not everyone was happy with their proposed simplistic 'solution', they will let us stew in our own juice so that we will willingly accept whatever they want to impose on us.

My own feeling is that having given up on their proposed solution they simply could not be bothered and let the thing fall by default. In other words it was thoughtlessness and negligence.

Mole Valley District Council, to its credit, is doing what it can about bin collection. MVDC Environment Department are advising cars & vans on Tuesday afternoon that vehicles preventing bin collection on Wednesday will be ticketed by Surrey Police and possibly removed; and the Department is monitoring the situation on Wednesdays. Also if, despite these efforts, no bin lorry is able to get through on a Wednesday, they will send out a lorry on the following Saturday. This use of personnel on Tuesday afternoon & Wednesday morning must cost money and, of course, if a bin lorry has to be sent out on a Saturday even more expense will be involved - extra cost to MVDC thanks to the ineptness of SCC.

We appreciate the efforts of our MVDC Ward Councillor, Bridget Lewis-Carr, in helping to find a solution to the bin problem. How about our SCC Councillor helping resolve the access problem?