Summer 2023 ABOUT ATFORD What’s On in Watford Cleaner, greener Watford – sustainability projects are go! What’s inside…
2 About Watford Summer 2023 Peter Taylor Elected Mayor of Watford www.watford.gov.uk/ electedmayor Published by Watford Borough Council. This magazine is printed on chlorine-free paper, made from sustainable forests and costs 22p to print and distribute. Please recycle it when you have finished with it. This magazine is available on our website. It can be downloaded as a PDF document and also as an audio file. Since we declared a climate and ecological emergency in 2019, we have been committed to creating a cleaner and greener Watford. Our bold ambition to become a net-zero carbon town by 2030, two decades ahead of the national target, means that we need to act quickly to improve our environment. This edition of About Watford sets out the wide range of projects we are undertaking to achieve our target and make Watford a better place to live. We are revitalising the River Colne (page 5), a cherished part of our town, through our collaboration with Groundwork. This will create thriving ecosystems and attract new wildlife by making sure that we sustainably manage plants and trees and make enhancements along the riverbank. I recently got involved myself by taking part in the Balsam Bash, tackling invasive species to support native species to flourish. In addition to this work, our tree planting schemes (page 6) are transforming our streets and neighbourhoods with 20,000 new trees across the town over the next few years. And that’s not all, in this edition you can read about the Nextdoor Nature project (page 5), the expansion of electric charging points (page 8), a new method of insulating homes (page 7) and a lot more. This edition of About Watford also sets out the great work that my team have been doing for our area. We have invested significantly to improve our parks and green spaces, including Meriden Park (page 10) and Woodside (page 11), and our shared community space in the town centre, particularly Queens Road (page 13). Through our Community Grant Scheme, we have also invested over £150,000 to support local groups (pages 16 and 17). There is still plenty more to come, and you can read about plans for the Colosseum (page 14) and the exciting future for the Watford Museum (page 15) here too. I wish you all a great summer and hope you can enjoy some of the fantastic events taking place over the coming months. With the cost of living crisis making things difficult, I am really pleased that across Watford we have many free events for people to enjoy. You can find a list of these on pages 22 and 23 or visit our new events website www.watfordevents.com.
www.watford.gov.uk 3 Read all about it in your INBOX Sign up to the council’s eNewsletter to receive information straight to your inbox about the latest updates in the town, waste and recycling information, events and activities, cost of living advice and support and much more. www.watford.gov.uk/newsletter ABOUT ATFORD Features Environment 4 Improvement Projects 10 Community 16 Events 22 Business 24 News in Brief 25 Local Elections 30 We’re here to help if you have any questions www.watford.gov.uk Email: [email protected] Telephone: 01923 226400 Watford Borough Council, Town Hall, Watford, WD17 3EX Our Customer Services Centre is open Monday - Friday. For specific opening times go to: watford.gov.uk/contactus watfordcouncil
4 About Watford Summer 2023 Cleaner, greener Watford – sustainability projects are go! Since the declaration of a climate and ecological emergency in 2019, the council is continuing to build on its work to create a cleaner, greener Watford. The council has approved a new plan to become a net zero carbon town by 2030, 20 years ahead of the national legal target. ‘Watford’s Environmental Strategy: Addressing the Climate and Ecological Emergency’ sets out the ambitious plans to make Watford a low-carbon, nature-positive and environmentally sustainable borough. It covers six themes: leading by example, people power, achieving net zero, nature and ecological restoration, responsible resource use and adapting to change. The delivery plan includes 66 potential actions and 55 targets, focusing on improved biodiversity; more recycling; cleaner, greener travel; reduced water usage and improved energy efficiency. Over 20 projects are already in progress, with key targets including: Over 100 actions and targets for Watford to become a net zero carbon town agreed by council Achieving net zero carbon emissions by the end of 2030 Reducing borough waste by 50% by 2030 30% of green spaces managed to support nature by 2030 net zero Environment 4 About Watford Summer 2023
www.watford.gov.uk 5 Helping us to help nature: Nextdoor Nature launches in Watford Never has nature needed our help more than it does today, and with the launch of Nextdoor Nature in Watford we have a chance to make a real difference. This initiative is not just about planting trees or creating new habitats for wildlife – it’s all about bringing people together and empowering them to get involved with the natural world. Thanks to the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Nextdoor Nature is providing communities with the tools they need to help nature thrive in their local area. Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust has a wealth of expertise in wildlife conservation, making them the perfect partner. More information at: hertswildlifetrust.org.uk/wilder-communities The River Colne has been at the heart of Watford’s history for centuries, shaping our culture and our lives. But unfortunately, in more recent times, it’s become somewhat neglected. That’s all about to change. We’ve teamed up with Groundwork to revive the river and restore it as a focal point of our community once more. In March, tree management using traditional methods commenced, including pollarding along the Knutsford Playing Fields, Radlett Road and Waterfield riverbank. Too much tree cover can block light reaching the river, which is detrimental to vegetation and diverse habitats, so this work is essential to maintaining the river’s ecosystem, allowing aquatic plants to thrive in the river and on its banks. The wood didn’t go to waste either. Collected by volunteers, it’s been used to create man-made banks, called berms. These clever structures replicate the natural bends and flows of the river, enhancing habitats, and have been planted with native plants to increase biodiversity and attract wildlife. The river is already stepping back into the limelight. We’re running ‘Tales of the River’ in partnership with The National Lottery Heritage Fund, focusing on the Colne’s heritage and its importance to the town’s future, and Groundwork have been running ‘Wildplay’ sessions along the river for kids under 8, to get the next generation on board with our natural heritage. Want to get involved, connect with nature and help build a positive legacy for years to come? Find out more at: www.rivercolnewatford.co.uk/get-involved Bringing nature and history back to the heart of Watford Environment
6 About Watford Summer 2023 We will once again be working in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council to deliver thousands of free trees to Watford residents as part of the ‘Your Tree Our Future’ scheme. Last year we received requests for over 4,000 trees from Watford residents, with a further 42,000 given away across the county. The scheme is now open for it’s second year with a further 9,000 trees available for Watford residents, funded jointly by the county council and Watford Borough Council. Visit www.hertfordshire.gov.uk/yourtree to see what trees are available and apply for yours. Trees are limited to 5 per applicant and will be available on a first-come-first-served basis. ‘Your Tree Our Future’ returns for a second year The council and Hertfordshire County Council teamed up to plant over 122 street trees in Watford this winter, making it the largest planting scheme of its kind in the town. It’s part of the council’s goal to plant 20,000 trees over the next four years, with over 14,000 already donated via giveaways at Cassiobury Park over the last two years. Residents can suggest tree sites via the council’s website at www.watford.gov.uk/treeplanting before 31 August 2023, with further planting and giveaways planned for this winter. If you receive a tree or have a street tree nearby, please help us keep them healthy by watering them. Thank you! Things are looking leafy: our largest street tree-planting scheme to date Environment
www.watford.gov.uk 7 A ray of sunshine: over 1,000 solar panels for Watford thanks to group buying scheme Watford reached a remarkable milestone this year with the installation of over 300 solar panels as part of a group buying scheme, and the total is set to rise to 1,000 by the end of the year! Launched in 2022 with renewable energy company Solar Together, the council supported the programme offering residents high-quality solar panels at a discounted rate by buying in bulk. It’s been a resounding success, with over 100 households taking advantage of the chance to switch to solar. Installing the panels is expected to save households a combined total of £50,000 per year on their energy bills, as well as reducing their carbon footprint by an estimated 4,867,200 kg of CO2 emissions over 20 years! To take part this year, please visit solartogether.co.uk/watford/home. Environment Tired of high energy bills and uncomfortable temperatures at home? Well, there’s a new innovation in town and it’s set to be a total gamechanger! Say hello to TheQBot – a revolutionary robot designed to spray foam insulation under floors, ensuring a faster, safer and more efficient way of insulating homes and buildings. This remarkable invention is currently being used in Watford and can handle even the most challenging spaces with ease, making it ideal for retrofitting older buildings, for improved energy efficiency and lower utility bills. The council are supporting the insulation with a range of grants and loan options aimed at helping residents to keep warm, save money and reduce carbon. For more information, visit: www.watford.gov.uk/ carbon-assistance. Things are warming up: revolutionary insulation robot comes to Watford
8 About Watford Summer 2023 Seeing is believing: virtual reality to bring proposed Green Loop Cycle Route to life We’re excited to announce the launch of an immersive virtual reality bike ride experience in Watford, with Hertfordshire County Council and Digital Urban. This cutting-edge technology allows residents to explore one of the town’s newly proposed cycle routes and provide feedback. The sessions will take place on 9 September at Big Sports and on 10 September at Oxhey Activity Park, from 10am to 4pm, and give visitors a chance to cycle through Watford and experience the route, complete with sounds, people and 360° views of the town. The virtual bike ride will focus on the eastern part of the Green Loop, which covers 6.7 miles and includes key locations such as Watford Junction, Cassiobury Park, East Watford and part of National Cycle Route 6. The virtual cyclists can also explore the town’s proposed new stretches of cycleway; plans for widening and resurfacing existing cycleways and footways; improvements to cycle crossings; and additional road markings and cycleway signage. Join the fun and help shape the future of cycling in Watford! Visitors may also receive vouchers from Beryl Bikes and Tasty Bean Café. Charge it up! Substantial grant for EV charging points secured We’ve got some exciting news for residents looking to make the switch to electric vehicles. Thanks to a grant of £592,500 from the On-Street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS), the town will soon see the installation of 79 new twin electric vehicle (EV) charging points, bringing the total number to 102. This will make it even easier for residents and visitors to access convenient charging facilities and help promote sustainable transport in the borough. Stay tuned for updates in the coming months! Environment
www.watford.gov.uk 9 Join the club! Watford Car Club to launch later this autumn Back to school: Modeshift STARS We’re thrilled to announce that the council has teamed up with Enterprise Car Club to bring you a revolutionary car hire service that will transform the way you travel. The Car Club will be your go-to solution for affordable, convenient car hire in Watford. No more worrying about the hassle and expense of owning a car, especially if you only need one now and then. Whether you’re running errands, going away for the weekend or just need to get to a meeting, the Car Club’s got you covered. The best bit? You can hire a vehicle by the hour, making it an economical option for individuals and organisations alike. Plus, with six on-street locations across the town, they’re easy to find. All you need is the app or a membership card to unlock your chosen vehicle. It’s that easy! And the green cherry on top? All the cars are electric or hybrid, so you can do your bit for the environment while enjoying a comfortable ride. Here’s the scoop: Car Club will be launching later this autumn, so keep your eyes peeled for more information on how to sign up and start driving. We can’t wait to see you behind the wheel! Schools can play their part in ‘Transforming Travel in Watford’ by registering for a Modeshift STARS Travel Plan at modeshiftstars. org/education. This is a national awards scheme supported by the Department of Transport that recognises schools that have shown excellence in cycling, walking and other forms of sustainable travel. It’s free to take part and supports the development of school travel plans, with five levels of accreditation. Full support is offered, so if your school is interested, please contact: activeandsafertravel@ hertfordshire.gov.uk Environment Providing zero emission vehicles for ‘by the hour’ car hire in convenient locations across the town, to help reduce private car ownership and improve air quality.
10 About Watford Summer 2023 Live, work and enjoy Watford! Watford’s blooming! Wildflowers and plants breathe life into Meriden Park Cllr Tim Williams, Cllr Jenny Pattinson, Peter Taylor and Cllr Amanda Grimston From improvements to our much-loved parks, such as Meriden Park and Woodside Playing Fields, to investment in key town sites, including the Town Hall Quarter, Watford Business Park and Queens Road, here are just a few of the latest projects working hard to make Watford an even more fantastic place to live, work, visit and invest. Good news for residents, Meriden Park, one of our most popular parks, has undergone some upgrades, and there’s more to come! One major change is the extended footpath around the park, to improve access for everyone. The newly installed landscaping mounds of excavated soil will be seeded with grass, for added green space. In addition, 19 new trees were planted in March, mostly around the park’s upper section. There’s also an extra table tennis table for outdoor fun and games. But it doesn’t stop there. The park is now even more secure, with a height restriction barrier at the entrance of the community centre, and kneehigh railing on Meriden Way and Garsmouth Way, discouraging illegal encampments and ensuring it remains a safe, peaceful place for local residents. Accessibility has been further improved with the installation of dropped kerbs along Garsmouth Way, making it easier for people with disabilities to enjoy the area. Thanks to the council’s Neighbourhood Grant, the car park at the Community Centre has also been repaired (read more on page 17). The next phase of works will focus on landscaping, with wildflower and bulb planting, and some new benches. All the improvements are not only to beautify our park, but to support biodiversity, improve the soil, and create a more pleasant place to be. Join the Friends of Meriden Park volunteer group by contacting: [email protected] Cassiobury Park, Oxhey Park and Oxhey Activity Park have been voted for by the public within the top ten parks in the whole of Britain at the Green Flag People’s Choice Awards! This year’s poll was completed by over 18,000 people. Watford also received 17 Green Flag Awards in total for parks this year – a record number in Hertfordshire (out of 2,208 across the UK). Improvement Projects
www.watford.gov.uk 11 Let’s get moving! Woodside Playing Fields – a new era for sports and sustainability Park users will be able to get active and enjoy our great outdoors with Woodside Playing Fields set to receive a major facelift, including sport and sustainability improvements. At the heart of the project is the creation of Woodside Community Sports Village, including renovating the existing buildings and providing modern and energy-efficient facilities for cricket, football and boxing, for all ages and abilities. The plans also feature modern and accessible changing rooms for the clubs on site, including Watford Town Cricket Club, the junior and adult football clubs, and Watford Amateur Boxing Club. To cater for increased visits, plans for new public toilets and a ‘Changing Places’ facility are also in the pipeline. Detailed design and planning work will be carried out this year, with construction largely scheduled for 2024 and completion early 2025. So, grab your gear – a new era of sports and sustainability at Woodside Playing Fields is coming our way! Improvement Projects www.watford.gov.uk 11 To keep up to date with the project, please visit yourwoodside.co.uk
12 About Watford Summer 2023 ‘Inspire’, the exciting £20million redevelopment project at Watford Business Park is now underway, with works taking place by the council over the next year to create workspaces fit for the future. Located on Greenhill Crescent, Caxton Way and Faraday Close, the business park is home to over 100 businesses, employing more than 1,000 people from Watford and beyond. Whilst the 30-hectare site is a major employment area, a significant proportion of the pre-existing buildings were not geared to the needs of modern businesses. The work is thanks to investment by the council and Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), who supported the redevelopment with £5 million of funding via the Local Growth Fund. It includes the design and construction of c6,080m2 of commercial premises in 14 units, with parking, landscaping and a new access route. With modern, flexible business units for small and medium-sized businesses, potential occupiers include businesses in film, TV, life sciences and manufacturing. It will also increase its employment capacity, with the potential to create an additional 180 local jobs. Led by the appointed project managers, Stace LLP, and construction company, Faircloth, the project is expected to be finished by late 2023. Improvement Projects A boost for business: exciting new plans for Watford Business Park now underway
www.watford.gov.uk 13 A future-proof facelift: historic Queens Road receives 21st century makeover Built in the 1860s, Queens Road, a popular shopping destination, has received a makeover, with new granite paving, realigned street furniture, and a trio of new planters. With new seating and cycle stands, repainted bollards and repositioned litter bins, the enhancements have created a safer, more attractive space for people to enjoy, and have brought the area up to the same standards as the Town Centre improvements completed in 2019. A comprehensive scheme for the busy parade of shops, restaurants, and other businesses, the improvements have brought the aesthetics within Queens Road up to the same standards as the major public realm scheme completed nearby in the town centre in 2019. If you would like any more information, please email the Transport & Infrastructure team at: [email protected] Improvement Projects The council’s streetscape improvement plan will reach multiple locations across the town, including King Street, Market Street, St Albans Road, Clarendon Road, St Mary’s Churchyard and the Town Centre, with smaller parades also earmarked for improvement. Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “These improvements, supported by local businesses, have made the area more appealing for both residents and visitors, promoting local trade. As part of my manifesto, I promised to enhance areas like this so that businesses are supported and residents can feel proud of their area. Similar enhancements are being made in other areas including Garston parade, to make Watford a more desirable place to live, work and visit.”
14 About Watford Summer 2023 Landmark transformation: ongoing improvements to Town Hall and Colosseum progressing Plans that will secure the long-term future of two of the town’s landmarks and transform them for greater community use are progressing well. The project, known as the Town Hall Quarter Programme, is set to regenerate the top end of the Town Centre, breathing new life into the Town Hall area. The plans include a revitalised Watford Colosseum and a new, modern and interactive Watford Museum, see more on the right. It will also include the creation of an Innovation and Incubation Hub to support our small and medium enterprises. Improvement Projects 14 About Watford Summer 2023
www.watford.gov.uk 15 Watford Museum granted £68,000 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to support with transformation Watford’s plans to create an exciting new Museum and Heritage Service have received a major boost, thanks to a generous award of £68k from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The funding will support the council’s plans to relocate the museum to the Town Hall, creating a new home to tell the town’s story, and bringing together local history from across the centuries. As the plans take shape, Watford residents will have the chance to share ideas on what they would like to see in their museum. With some spectacular heritage rooms planned, the Town Hall will make a striking location for the reimagined museum, which will also include a museum shop and café. To find out more about the 10-year Town Hall Quarter Programme, planned completion 2030/31, and see how it’s breathing new life into the area, visit: watfordtownhallquarter.com Going live! World-leading live entertainment company new operator for Colosseum Watford Colosseum is set to reopen next spring after extensive refurbishment, with global venue operator and concert promoter, AEG Presents, appointed to run the venue. The company is responsible for over 350 arenas, stadiums, theatres and clubs across the world, including indigo at The O2. AEG have demonstrated their ability to attract an outstanding mix of live music, comedy and dance acts to Watford, enhancing the town’s entertainment and cultural life, and giving a boost to the local economy. Improvement Projects www.watford.gov.uk 15
16 About Watford Summer 2023 Watford is set to benefit from 16 schemes that received funding from the town’s Neighbourhood Grant £150,000 funding pot. Generous grants have been awarded to local groups, including schools, charities and sports clubs, to support projects that will have a positive impact on our town. The funding comes from the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), which is paid by developers on new housing developments in the borough. The goal is to support local projects that mitigate the impact of new developments and ensure that the community benefits from sustainable growth. Local residents were given the opportunity to have their say on the projects, with over 2,000 votes cast. Have a look at the successful applicants on the next page and find out more at: watfordneighbourhoodgrant.commonplace.is Sweet sixteen! Grants of up to £20,000 awarded to 16 community projects Community The council’s grant funding, which includes the Neighbourhood Grant, Mayor’s Small Grant and Community Fund, is providing a much-needed boost to local organisations and charities, to help them continue their valuable work across our community. With the launch of our Watford Community Lottery this year, even more funding is up for grabs! Council grants supporting local community and good causes
www.watford.gov.uk 17 3G artificial grass pitch at Everett Rovers FC (£20,000) Fully enclosed nets at Watford Town Cricket Club (£20,000) Defibrillator at Glen Rovers GAA (£2,340) Creation of community artwork by Cathartic C.I.C (£8,773) Get active programme at Veterans Support Group Watford & District (£2,000) Biodiversity garden at Cherry Tree School (£4,500) School allotment at Beechfield School (£5,000) New Hope memorial garden at St Marys Church (£3,111) Interpretive signs within Cassiobury Park nature reserve (£1,822) Improvements to Holywell Community Centre, including the kitchen, main hall and entrance facilities (£20,000) Meriden Community Centre car park, which includes fixing potholes and painting white lines (£20,000) CCTV at Victoria Passage (£5,000) Investment for better toilet and wash facilities at Watford Workshop (£15,000) General improvements to the Pump House Theatre, including better disability access (£19,383) Random Café to improve accessibility, add a patio and install solar panels (£7,923) Equipment for a seated exercise class run by B Dance for local elderly residents (£80) Community Applications for the next round of funding will open in autumn 2023. Please email: [email protected] for more information.
18 About Watford Summer 2023 Community The government have announced that full funding for an innovative new hospital in Watford has been secured. This remarkable achievement is the result of a longstanding partnership between Watford Borough Council and the West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. In addition to strong lobbying by the previous and current Mayor and the Council, difficult decisions have been made to support the ambition for a new hospital. This has included the building of Thomas Sawyer Way, which serves as an access road to the new site and has already led to decreased ambulance journey times. Watford Council enabled a new multi-story car park to be built which means that land is available for new hospital buildings. The council has also given outline planning permission for the new hospital, meaning that the project can move quickly. The new hospital in Watford will revolutionise healthcare services locally, offering cuttingedge medical facilities. The hospital will have the equipment it needs to provide state of the art diagnostics and the site is designed in way that will deliver emergency care more efficiently and provide more elective care through a new theatre complex. In addition, the new building will benefit from more bed space and an increase in single occupancy rooms. Speaking about the funding, Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “I am really pleased we will finally be getting new facilities at Watford General. I am proud of the work we have done to make this happen and am really excited to see our local NHS get the facilities and equipment it needs to deliver healthcare fit for the 21st Century.” Council and NHS Trust Partnership brings exciting new hospital to Watford
www.watford.gov.uk 19 Tackling violent crime Working together to keep Watford safe Tackling violence is a priority because of the disproportionate effect this type of crime has on the feelings of safety for the whole community. We have made a special focus on tackling violence against women and girls and violent youth crime and last year, the council received accreditation from White Ribbon UK for this commitment. Community wellbeing Our work in this area comes directly from engagement with the community, information from residents and businesses and data from ECHO – the Police’s public feedback tool. This work is all about being proactive in order to prevent and resolve community tensions. Head to bit.ly/police-watford to share your thoughts. Community safety matters to us all – it is a huge part of how we feel about where we live. That’s why talking to you about what we are doing to keep our town safe is essential and one of our top priorities. Stay up to date with our work, as well as key things happening around Watford: watford.gov.uk/newsletter Reassure and inform Community Safer Watford – Watford’s community safety partnership – brings together all the town’s key organisations, including Watford Council, health service providers, the Police, Herts Fire and Rescue and a wide range of housing providers. Together, we are always working behind the scenes to keep Watford safe and bustling. Working together and sharing our insights means we can really understand and tackle any challenges facing the town. This is how we develop our Community Safety Action Plan, focusing on three priorities. www.watford.gov.uk 19
20 About Watford Summer 2023 Proud to be a dementiafriendly town During this important week, the town highlighted the resources, organisations and support available for those living with dementia, and their carers. The council also held numerous ‘Dementia Friends Information Sessions’ to better inform staff, residents and local businesses. Interactive sessions helped to provide a deeper understanding of how dementia affects a person and what we can do to support people in our community to live well with dementia. Dementia affects more than 3,500 people living in Watford, Three Rivers and Hertsmere and we are committed to providing the safe spaces, vital services and support they need. As a community, we’ve made significant strides in becoming a ‘dementia-friendly’ community, with businesses such as Morrisons holding ‘dementia friends’ training to better understand the needs of customers with dementia. There are also clubs, cafes and social events running throughout the year for those living with dementia, and their carers, including the West Herts College ‘Forget me not restaurant’, run in partnership with the council, where students provide great food and fantastic service. For more information on the support available, please visit: www.dementiafriendlywatford.com Community No one left behind: helping Watford’s rough sleepers The pathway away from rough sleeping isn’t a straight road. It’s hard, complex and often means having to go backwards in order to move forward. In Watford, our work with rough sleepers is making people sit up and take notice. Here’s why. Over the past three years, the council has been working with local partners to put in place what’s called a Single Homelessness Pathway in the town. This brings together all the separate homeless accommodation and support providers into one team. By working together we are building a full picture of every rough sleeper’s needs. The more we understand about people, the more we can help them. The Pathway also means we are merging the help available, so people get the right help at the right time. It sounds simple enough but the partnership work taking place in Watford is far from the norm and it’s having a tremendous impact on some of the most vulnerable in our town. Watford is proud to be a dementia-friendly community and to support Dementia Action Week once again – a nationwide event dedicated to raising awareness of dementia and understanding its symptoms. This year’s event was held from 15 to 21 May. 20 About Watford Summer 2023
www.watford.gov.uk 21 Tim’s story* how the Pathway got Tim off the streets At 52-years old, Tim found himself living on the streets and addicted to heroin and crack cocaine. Begging in the town centre helped to pay for the drugs which were ruining his life. He also has severe mental health issues. He’d been sleeping rough for seven years, except for seven short spells in council temporary accommodation and numerous stays in charity accommodation. But it wasn’t working – he was evicted every time because of his drug abuse and the anti-social behaviour that went with it. In 2021, Tim was placed in the care of the new Single Homelessness Pathway. The team recognised that his needs are complex and accepted that it isn’t going to be easy to get Tim off the streets for good. We understand that relapses are likely and that the rough sleepers we help will often have to go back to the beginning of the Pathway many times before being able to make real progress. We saw this with Tim. So, we put him forward for a Housing First home. These are for people who have tried many times and failed to thrive in supported accommodation. The homes come with high levels of support to help residents maintain and sustain their tenancies, until they can manage this themselves. He signed a tenancy agreement for his new home a year ago. It has been going well and it’s Tim’s longest time off the streets so far. He continues to engage with his Housing First support worker and has access to the medical help he needs. Tim hasn’t given up trying to change his life for the better, and through the Pathway we won’t give up on him either. Donate at: bit.ly/watford-street-aid Help people find a life off the street, don’t help keep them on it Please give to charity not to people begging • No one in our town has to sleep rough or to beg • Watford Borough Council and its partners are providing accommodation, food and support services to everyone who needs it • We are helping people out of homelessness and in to stable homes • Nearly everyone you see begging has a place to stay with food and support. Even those few without a place to stay are still being helped every day Donate today *This is a real story but to protect the person involved we have changed their name. Community Thank you to our Single Homeslessness Pathway partners who are changing lives
22 About Watford Summer 2023 What’s On in Watford An exciting array of council-funded, vibrant, diverse, cultural experiences and events is coming your way. There’s something for everyone and most of them are FREE! What’s On Summer Programme July to August Various locations Great activities for children aged 5 to 15, including stage school, adventure play, sports club, plus arts and crafts. There’s something for everyone this summer, so don’t miss out, make a date in your diary! Hercules 15 July at 4pm Cassiobury Park Bandstand An outdoor performance of Hercules by IK Productions with their unmistakable brand of ‘delightfully daft’ family theatre. Market Lates 30 June, 4 August, 1 September, 27 October from 6pm to 10pm Watford Market The event will include drinks (bar available) and street food from around the globe, bringing the market to life, by night. LATES MARKET Big Bandstand Situated near the Tea Pavilion, most weekends from June to September 2023 (3pm to 5pm), it plays host to a jam-packed programme of FREE live shows. Everything from jazz to ukulele – and of course, lots of traditional brass bands to enjoy. 3rd Community Cup Golf Event 10 July at West Herts Golf Club The council in partnership with Everyone Active and the Former Players Cub will be hosting their 3rd Community Golf Day to raise much-needed funds for local charities. Hosted by Luther Blissett OBE DL and Peter Taylor, Elected Mayor of Watford. For more information, please visit: w3rt.org/community_cup_golf_day_2023 Events 22 About Watford Summer 2023
www.watford.gov.uk 23 Free Gym and Swim 24 July to 31 August Watford Leisure Centres – Central and Woodside Watford residents aged 19 and under can swim and have access to the gyms at Everyone Active sites within Watford, for free during the summer holidays. All sessions are bookable on the Everyone Active app. Big Screen 24 to 30 July (various times) – Town Centre 31 July to 6 August 2023 (various times) – Woodside Playing Fields Grab your blankets, pack a picnic and sit back and relax whilst watching some old favourites alongside new blockbusters. The Ugly Duckling 26 July at 4pm Cassiobury Park Bandstand Wonderful, open-air family musical from the lovely Folksy Theatre, filled with live music, puppetry and colourful characters. Big Jiveswing 30 July from 12 to 6pm Cassiobury Park Bandstand One of the UK’s largest FREE Jazz Festivals, featuring some of the best internationally acclaimed musicians, bands and dancers. A great family day out, with live cabarets, dance classes for children and adults and a vintage photo booth, all for FREE! There will be a variety of vendors on site and vintage stalls on the day too. Big Beach 12 to 27 August from 10am to 5pm Town Centre The perfect chance for people of all ages to lap up some summer sun. There will also be exciting games for you to play, from the shack on the beach. Herts Pride 19 August from 12noon to 10pm Cassiobury Park Everyone is welcome to attend this all-inclusive event supporting our local LGBTQ+ community, which includes stalls, a funfair, diverse line-up of live entertainment and Herts Pride Dog Show. Colourscape 19 to 28 August from 12noon to 5pm Cassiobury Park (near Bandstand) Enter a new world of colour and light. Explore a unique labyrinth of 70 interlinked chambers of intense colours and discover interactive musicians and dancers along the way. Big Sports 9 September from 11am to 5pm Town Centre Try out a whole host of free sporting and fitness activities, alongside health and wellbeing advice. Watford Fringe 22 September to 8 October Various locations An extraordinary weekend of great classical theatre, interactive comedic acts and fun-filled family shows. Cassiobury Fireworks 4 November from 6pm to 8.30pm Cassiobury Park Vibe 107.6FM will be keeping the crowds entertained on stage from 6pm with music, competitions and live performances. The spectacular fireworks display starts at 7.30pm. There will also be a variety of food and drink outlets, kiddies’ funfair rides, bungee trampolines and a bouncy slide. Events Looking for more fun things to do in Watford without breaking the bank, then visit: watfordevents.com. For sport activities, visit: watfordgetactive.co.uk
24 About Watford Summer 2023 Supporting Watford businesses to thrive Watford has always had a thriving and vibrant local economy. We’re making sure this continues and that our business community is supported to overcome the current challenges. Looking to make a difference in your community? Look no further than the partnership between Watford Borough Council and local social enterprise Wenta, who have teamed up for a two-year programme aimed at helping SMEs reduce carbon emissions in the Watford area. Through this innovative initiative, experienced net zero business advisors will provide free support to local businesses, including access to the latest learning content, resources and tailored support for their net zero journeys. Wenta understands that different businesses may be at different stages of their decarbonisation journey, which is why they offer bespoke guidance tailored to the size of the venture, industry sector and progress made so far. To make sure that as many local businesses as possible can benefit from this programme, Wenta is now offering free, dedicated guidance, resources and skills training support to at least 250 local Watford businesses. And the benefits to these businesses are numerous, from access to green grants to attracting and retaining staff teams, improving brand reputation and gaining a competitive edge over other businesses. Wenta has over 40 years of experience in providing free support to SMEs, and their programme for Watford businesses is second to none. It includes specialist learning content, virtual or face-to-face sessions with progress check-in calls, regular emailed content, templates, trackable progress, and all the resources needed to start or continue their decarbonisation journey. Ready to make a difference in your community? Visit: wenta.co.uk/watford_net_zero to learn more or get in touch with Wenta at: 01438 310020 or [email protected]. Let’s work together to build a more sustainable future for all. Join the movement: Greener Future for Watford’s Businesses! Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in Watford, listen up! Watford Borough Council has partnered with Branduin Business Support to bring you the Fit To Bid® programme – an exciting initiative aimed at helping you actively engage in the local supply chain. Through Meet The Buyer events, skills workshops, and 1-2-1 tender advice sessions, expert advisors will provide practical knowledge and skills to help you master the art and science of bid writing, and to submit bids to council procurement, construction and infrastructure projects, as well as large private sector buyers and suppliers. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to take your business to the next level! Join the programme by clicking on the link and fillingin the Bid Skills Assessment Questionnaire at: www.fittobid.co.uk/ watford. Let’s work together to make Watford’s business community stronger than ever before! Step up your business game with Fit To Bid®: Watford’s exciting new programme for SMEs! Business
www.watford.gov.uk 25 Get ready, Watford residents… exciting changes are coming our way! The council has approved a bold plan to rejuvenate the Town Centre over the next 20 years. The ‘Watford Town Centre Strategic Framework’ includes ambitious plans following extensive consultation and stakeholder engagement, with top priorities identified as greenery/planting, improved public transport and more places to eat and socialise. The proposed programme is designed to support economic growth and development. This includes future-proofing the Town Centre with a mix of uses, boosting enterprise and innovation, creating well-connected areas with active travel links and harnessing the opportunities of a growing and aging population. The plans also prioritise investing in a green, safe and welcoming public realm to encourage people to spend time in the Town Centre and enjoy everything Watford has to offer. The future’s looking bright! Seal of approval: Town Centre’s framework for the next 20 years gets thumbs up Great news for Watford! According to the recently released 2023 UK Vitality Index, our town has been ranked third out of the 100 largest urban areas in the UK, telling us what we already know: that Watford is a top-notch place to live and do business. The annual health assessment, conducted by Lambert Smith Hampton (LSH), analyses the vitality of each town in terms of economy and business, living standards, and health and environment. Watford excelled across all three areas, with notable achievements in education, lifestyle, workforce jobs growth and green space. The report highlights that Watford is the only location to achieve a top ten placement in all three areas. 3 is the magic number: Watford in top 3 of UK’s Vitality Index News in Brief News in Brief
26 About Watford Summer 2023 It’s time to celebrate! Beryl, the UK’s leading micromobility provider, and the council are marking three years since the launch of their popular bikeshare scheme in Watford. Since its launch in 2020, the scheme has gone from strength to strength, with over 308,000 journeys covering more than 900,000km. An impressive feat! In its first year, the scheme saw 88,891 journeys, which increased by 18% in the second and a further 8.3% in the third. The scheme has also saved 38 tonnes of carbon emissions – that’s equivalent to approximately 2,242 litres of petrol or more than 222.4 flights from London to Edinburgh. Keep pedalling, Watford! The council have improved the footpath between St Albans Road and Watford Junction Station. The project was funded by the council and Berkeley Homes’ Section 106 contribution and included resurfacing from the subway entrance to the Network Rail footpath. This welcome work has improved safety by providing a smoother and more accessible surface, and made the walk much more pleasant with refurbished hoardings, removal of old posts, and tidying up of blue badge bays and street furniture. Phase two, subject to approvals, will include refurbishing the steps leading to the main bridle path, improving lighting, resurfacing the Network Rail path and refreshing the crossing by the entrance/tunnel to the station car park. On the right path: Watford Junction bridle path to benefit from improvements News in Brief 3 years on 2 wheels! Beryl scheme celebrates third anniversary
www.watford.gov.uk 27 An historic reminder: Garston Pillbox restoration project complete The council has taken a stand against fly-tipping and antisocial behaviour with the installation of four new CCTV cameras in hot spots, including Francis Road, Queens Road and Queens Avenue. The cameras operate 24/7 and will identify and report, for example, when rubbish is dumped in the area. Additionally, Victoria Passage will also benefit from CCTV, with £5,000 from the council’s Neighbourhood Grant. Since 2016, fly-tippers have been identified and issued with Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) for £300, totalling over £12,000. The council has had a zerotolerance approach to fly-tipping for over a decade and successfully taken legal action against hundreds of offenders, saving more than £50,000 each year. Taking a stand: new surveillance to beat fly-tipping and antisocial behaviour Watford residents have access to first-rate leisure facilities at the Watford Leisure Centre Woodside, managed by Everyone Active, in partnership with the council. The centre has been awarded an ‘outstanding’ status by Sport England’s national quality scheme, Quest, for the second time. It’s testament to the high-quality services delivered by the staff and the top-class facilities available and acknowledges Everyone Active’s commitment to engaging the community and promoting fun, affordable activities for better health and wellbeing. News in Brief One of Watford’s historic landmarks, the Garston World War Two ‘Pillbox’, has been restored to its former glory, thanks to the council and architect Kevin O’Callaghan. Built as part of a network of strong point defences in 1940, it had fallen into disrepair. A restoration project was launched to repair and preserve it, using traditional materials and techniques where possible. The team also made sure to maintain the pillbox’s historical integrity for future generations. www.watford.gov.uk 27 Getting us moving: local leisure centre labelled as ‘outstanding’ in Quest report
28 About Watford Summer 2023 FREE EVENT offering safety information, help and advice for the older person FREE hot lunch Includes a & refreshments donated by HILS OPALS Older Persons Activity Learning and Safety 15 August 2023 • 10:30am-2:30pm Hollywell Community Centre Chaffinch Lane, Watford, WD18 9QD Contact Terry Morris on 07740 670 642 or email [email protected] Attendees include: Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue, Hertfordshire Police, Hertfordshire Trading Standards, Neighbourhood Watch, Small Acts of Kindness Hertfordshire, Herts Independent Living Service (HILS), and many more helpful organisations.
www.watford.gov.uk 29 The council’s team of three pest control officers have over 90 years of experience between them treating all manner of pests. They work across Watford in homes and businesses, providing a trusted and value for money service. They have helped thousands of residents to stay pest free, quickly, and discreetly. Low-cost fixed fee treatments are offered by the council, there are significantly reduced rates for many residents. We aim to find permanent solutions to your pest control problems and provide a trusted source of advice. If you are thinking of using a commercial company, make sure you compare the services, and understand exactly what you are getting before entering a contract. For more information, visit www.watford.gov.uk/ environment/pest-control or call 01923 226400 We treat: Rats Mice (internal) Wasps/hornets Cockroaches Fleas Bedbugs Squirrels Pharaohs Ants “I’ve always found the Pest Control team at Watford Borough Council to be extremely professional in its approach and very supportive of us as a business. I can’t speak highly enough of the service.” Service user
30 About Watford Summer 2023 Local elections round-up On Thursday 4 May, residents of Watford voted for councillors to represent them in 12 wards of Watford Borough Council. The results were announced by the Returning Officer, Watford Borough Council’s Chief Executive Donna Nolan, at the count at Watford Central Leisure Centre on Friday 5 May 2023. Each ward is represented by three councillors. Residents in Watford voted for the following councillors: l Callowland – Dawn Alena Allen-Williams, Liberal Democrat l Central – Rabindranath Filomeno Martins, Liberal Democrat l Holywell – Ifeyinwa Favour Ezeifedi, Labour l Leggatts – Asif Kaleem Khan, Labour and Co-Operative Party l Meriden – Amanda Grimston, Liberal Democrat l Nascot – Mark John Hofman, Liberal Democrat l Oxhey – Christopher Newstead, Liberal Democrat l Park – Penelope Margaret Hill, Liberal Democrat l Stanborough – Timothy James Williams, Liberal Democrat l Tudor – Charlott Edna May Saunders, Liberal Democrat l Vicarage – Jagtar Singh Dhindsa Singh, Labour l Woodside – Richard Victor Wenham, Liberal Democrat The council has also announced Councillor Simon Feldman as its new Chairman, with Councillor Dawn Allen-Williamson as Vice-Chairman (23 May). Simon will be carrying out fundraising events throughout the year including bike rides, walks and the yearly Santa collection. The Chairman would be grateful for any local businesses or groups that want to talk about mental health, get involved and help with fundraising to contact him at [email protected]. Local Elections 30 About Watford Summer 2023
Callowland Leggatts Tudor Central Meriden Park Vicarage Holywell Nascot Stanborough Woodside In Watford we have an Elected Mayor, Peter Taylor, who was re-elected for a second, four-year term on 5 May 2022. You can contact the Mayor if you wish to raise an issue with him directly. Watford Borough is divided into 12 wards. Each ward has three councillors whom you elect to represent you for a four-year term. Councillors can be contacted on the phone numbers shown or by email and are there for you to discuss any issues or concerns you have about your neighbourhood or the town. Peter Taylor Liberal Democrats 01923 278371 [email protected] How your council lines up (Lab) = Labour, (LD) = Liberal Democrats Oxhey * Denotes Hertfordshire County Councillor (plus Stephen Giles-Medhurst, County Councillor for Central Watford and Oxhey, and Stephen Cavinder for Meriden Tudor) Dennis Watling (Lab) 07719 976512 dennis. watling@ watford.gov.uk Ian Stotesbury (LD) 07999 938202 ian. stotesbury@ watford.gov.uk Dawn AllenWilliamson (LD) 07891 914319 dawn.allenwilliamson@ watford.gov.uk Marilyn Devonish (LD) 01923 337282 marilyn. devonish@ watford.gov.uk Aga Dychton (LD) 07936 404305 aga.dychton@ watford.gov.uk Rabi Martins (LD) 01923 228713 rabi.martins@ watford.gov.uk Nigel Bell* (Lab) 07783 812703 nigel.bell@ watford.gov.uk Favour Ezeifedi (Lab) 07535 284216 favour. ezeifedi@ watford.gov.uk Matt Turmaine (Lab) 07411 153095 matt. turmaine@ watford.gov.uk Mark Watkin* (LD) 01923 255715 mark.watkin@ watford.gov.uk Mark Hofman (LD) 01923 239893 mark.hofman@ watford.gov.uk Tom Osborn (LD) 01923 278605 tom.osborn@ watford.gov.uk Peter Hannon (LD) 07359 121894 peter.hannon@ watford.gov.uk Jennifer Pattinson (LD) 07515 468580 jennifer. pattinson@ watford.gov.uk Amanda Grimston (LD) 07702 815172 amanda. grimston@ watford.gov.uk Asif Khan* (Lab) 07931 529164 asif.khan@ watford.gov.uk Richard Smith (Lab) 07976 350871 richard.smith@ watford.gov.uk Shafiq Ahmed (LD) shafiq.ahmed@ watford.gov.uk Kennedy Rodrigues (LD) 07598 284337 kennedy. rodrigues@ watford.gov.uk Karen ClarkeTaylor (LD) 07963 345868 karen.clarketaylor@ watford.gov.uk Chris Newstead (LD) chris. newstead@ watford.gov.uk Peter Kloss (LD) 07885 760658 peter.kloss@ watford.gov.uk Peter Jeffree (LD) 07854 842669 peter.jeffree@ watford.gov.uk Penelope Hill (LD) penelope.hill@ watford.gov.uk Lenny Nembhard (LD) 01923 671021 lenny. nembhard@ watford.gov.uk Simon Feldman (LD) 01923 278608 simon. feldman@ watford.gov.uk Tim Williams* (LD) 01923 663436 tim.williams@ watford.gov.uk Ann Saffery (LD) 07803 714108 ann.saffery@ watford.gov.uk Glen Saffery (LD) 07939 218788 glen.saffery@ watford.gov.uk Richard Wenham (LD) 07891 138833 richard. wenham@ watford.gov.uk Nasreen Shah (Lab) 01923 253783 nasreen.shah@ watford.gov.uk Sara-Jane Trebar (Lab) 07903 205269 sara-jane. trebar@ watford.gov.uk Jagtar Singh Dhindsa (Lab) 07803 610441 jagtar. dhindsa@ watford.gov.uk Darren Walford (LD) 01923 336450 darren. walford@ watford.gov.uk Charlott Saunders (LD) charlott. saunders@ watford.gov.uk Stephen Johnson (LD) 07929 024712 stephen. johnson@ watford.gov.uk RE-ELECTED RE-ELECTED RE-ELECTED RE-ELECTED RE-ELECTED RE-ELECTED NEWLY ELECTED NEWLY ELECTED NEWLY ELECTED RE-ELECTED RE-ELECTED RE-ELECTED Local Elections www.watford.gov.uk 31
www.watford.gov.uk 32 The hottest ticket in town! Take part in Watford Community Lottery Hotly anticipated tickets for the new Watford Community Lottery are now on sale, with the first weekly draw on Saturday 24 June 2023. The local lottery has been set up by the council to raise money for charities and good causes throughout Watford, including those struggling during the cost-of-living crisis. Tickets are available to buy online at watfordcommunitylottery.co.uk for £1 each, and lucky winners could scoop up to £25,000. 60% of money raised from ticket sales will go towards local causes, 20% to the prize pool, and the remaining 20% will cover admin and operating expenses. Players have a 1 in 50 chance of winning a prize, ranging from the £25,000 jackpot to £1,000, £250, £25 or 3 free tickets. The draw will take place every Saturday at 8pm the week after the launch, and the lucky winners will be informed by email, with the money transferred automatically into their bank account. Amongst the good causes set to benefit from the lottery are Watford Women’s Centre, One YMCA, Watford Gymnastics Club and many more. Other not-forprofit organisations, such as sports clubs, community groups and PTAs, are encouraged to sign up by visiting: watfordcommunitylottery.co.uk. If you’ve got tickets for the first draw, good luck and a big thank you for taking part!