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Essex residents invited to share their views on proposed safer, greener, healthier cycling & walking routes

Essex County Council has launched a survey to hear the views of residents and businesses about connecting local cycling routes, which will create a new cycling network across the county. Residents of Uttlesford are also being asked for their feedback on a number of cycling and walking routes in their area. Both consultations, which began on Thursday 21 November, follow previous feedback given on routes in Basildon, Braintree, Brentwood, Castle Point, Chelmsford, Colchester, Rochford and Witham. The council’s Sustainable Transport team now want to hear the views of residents about the remaining networks in Essex which will connect all the routes together as well as link up rural areas, such as: Earls Colne to Kelvedon Colchester to Manningtree Rochford to Basildon The vision is for cycling and walking to become the safe and easy choice for travelling, either for shorter, local journeys or as part of a longer one. By switching to more sustainable forms of travel, residents will have more choice in how they get around. Councillor Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Sustainable Transport. said “We want to give our residents a choice in how they travel. This plan will also help improve health and wellbeing, improve air quality, reduce congestion and benefit the environment for future generations. “We want to make sure that all the routes in our towns and cities link key residential areas to schools, employment, shops or leisure facilities, and the rural routes link to stations or bus connections. “These plans are long-term and much depends on available funding.” Residents can give their feedback until 10 January 2025 by visiting: https://letstalkessexsustainabletravel.co.uk/county-wide-lcwip https://letstalkessexsustainabletravel.co.uk/uttlesford-lcwip

 

Cllr Peter Schwier AIEMA

Climate Czar

Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction & Recycling

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Essex residents urged to plan ahead with new Flood grant.

Mary Long-Dhonau OBE has urged Essex residents to apply for thousands of pounds to better protect their homes after her own experience of surface water flooding.

Mary, also known as Flood Mary, has championed property flood resilience since her young family lost everything in sewage water.

She said: “We were totally unprepared. I had a young family, the youngest of whom had been recently diagnosed with severe autism and we were reeling from that news. We were also doing extensive renovations to our home, and my eldest son had a downstairs bedroom, while we pulled ceilings down and replastered walls upstairs.

“During the night, he called me to say his bedroom was full of flood water - and it stank! When we went downstairs, I couldn’t believe my eyes as there was filthy stanching flood water everywhere. It was mostly sewage water, and the smell was horrific! At its worst, it was waist deep.

“The aftermath was terribly difficult and stressful, especially for my autistic son, as he had lost every single one of his toys in the flood. Due to his learning difficulties, he didn’t understand what on earth was going on.”

Mary remembers how she lost irreplaceable memorabilia through the flood. She said: “I was saving all of my children’s memories from birth, such as hospital wristbands, pregnancy records, photos, nursery and school drawings from each term. I was planning on giving them to my children, wrapped up in a ribbon, on their 18th birthday as a memento. Sadly, I lost everything in the flood water. It still brings tears to my eyes all these years on.”

Mary has used her experiences to raise awareness about surface water flooding and mitigations, including the Property Flood Resilience (PFR) grant by Essex County Council.

Residents could bolster their homes with up to £8,000 in flood protection measures offered by the PFR grant, which is funded via the Regional Flood and Coastal Committee (RFCC).

Protective measures include self-closing air bricks, reinforced flood doors, non-return valves, pumps and flood barriers.

The PFR grant is being delivered by Lakeside Flood Solutions for Essex homeowners who have or may experience flood water entering their homes.

Lakeside Flood Solutions has completed installations in over 180 properties across Essex since 2018. This includes an end-to-end service with flood risk surveys, product selection, design, installation and demonstration training.

Essex homeowners can check their property’s flood risk online to see if they are able to apply for the PFR grant. This may include residents living in critical drainage areas.

Homeowners will be asked to contribute to their flood protection measures if they exceed the £8,000 afforded by the grant.

Mary added: “If you have the chance to install Property Flood Resilience (PFR), do it! It’s a no-brainer. PFR will give you back control to know that, should a surface water flood come, you’ll be better protected to keep the water out, for longer. Having the peace of mind that you can manage your own flood risk is very empowering!”

Councillor Tom Cunningham, Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Sustainable Transport at Essex County Council, said: “It is shocking to hear about what Mary and her family went through, especially given how unexpected it was. I therefore strongly encourage residents to check their eligibility for the Property Flood Resilience grant and secure their homes for the future.”

Cllr Peter Schwier AIEMA

Climate Czar

Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction & Recycling

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     Free Electric Blankets by OVO & Octopus

Octopus Energy and OVO are offering Free Electric Blankets and other support measures to their most vulnerable existing customers this winter.

Octopus Energy - Octo Assist Fund

• Free Electric Blankets - Those who are “medically vulnerable, elderly, or living alone” will be prioritised.
• Winter Fuel Payments
• Standing Charge Waivers and more

https://octopus.energy/financial-assistance/

 

Ovo Energy - Ovo’s Extra Support

• Heated Throws
• Energy Efficient Kits
• Payment Support
• Energy Efficient upgrades (lost insulation, new boilers, heat pumps) and more

https://www.ovoenergy.com/extra-support

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Hello everyone

I am pleased to  share this years Winter Appeal shopping list for November and December as well as the reverse Advent calendar 2024.  You may notice that some of the same items are appearing over and over.  This is due to the decrease in donations we have received throughout the year. To support this we are applying for grants to be able to purchase the food we need but this takes time.  Any donation really will make a difference.

 

We are also short on supplies for our warm packs.  These include nail cutters, combs and face cloths. Our warm packs are given out to those who face sleeping rough.  

 

Your continued support is vital to our work and we are immensely grateful for your help.

 

If you require further assistance on this or any other Foodbank matter, please do not hesitate to contact me.

 

Kind regards

Vanessa Green

Communications Manager

 

 

 

 

 Business Development Manager - Part-time 21 hrs per week (circa £32,000 FTE).

Rural Community Council of Essex (RCCE) is a growing, countywide charity looking for a Business Development Manager to help secure its long-term sustainability.
The post will identify opportunities for business development through new funding streams, partnership and commissioning opportunities and by developing the benefits of membership.
The postholder will be expected to lead on the preparation and management of funding bids, tenders and business proposals working closely with the management team and other members of staff.
The successful candidate will have:
- Proven experience and success in grant applications and fundraising.
- Excellent communication skills, including an ability to write large-scale funding bids.
- Experience in developing and managing relationships with funders.
- Experience of project development and budgets.
- Experience of databases and data management.

The successful candidate will be:
- An enthusiastic team player able to work collaboratively with others.
- Self-motivated and able to manage priorities without close supervision.
- An interest in and knowledge of rural communities and experience of the charity sector would also be desirable.

This post will be based at the RCCE offices at Feering, near Colchester, but home working will be permitted. You are required to have a full driving licence and access to a car. This is a fixed term contract for 2 years with the possibility of extension.  Application deadline: 12 noon Friday 15 th November.

To apply please provide either a curriculum vitae, details of 2 referees and a covering letter (maximum 2 sides of A4) setting out your qualities and how you meet the requirements of this post. Or complete an application form and an equality monitoring form - which can be downloaded from the website or by contacting RCCE: http://www.essexrcc.org.uk/Working_for_us 
Please send all applications electronically to: Sara Ward (Administrator) –  sara.ward@essexrcc.org.uk or www.essexrcc.org.uk

Job Description can be found HERE.

RCCE registered charity no. 1097009 Registered company no. 4609624

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   ECC - Businesses invited to join Influential new board

Working together, Essex County Council, Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council are seeking influential businesspeople to join the new Greater Essex Business Board.

The board will represent the voice of the private sector and shape economic policy. Members will advise local and national political decision makers and help Greater Essex to thrive.

Members will play a role in attracting investment, influencing job growth, advising on infrastructure priorities and overseeing future Government programmes. 

Board members should have executive experience at a senior level. They will also need strong local and national connections.

The board will meet four times a year to build a highly skilled, future-proof and inclusive economy for Greater Essex. They will work closely with local authority partners, as well as representatives from other business forums.

Between meetings, board members are expected to act as ambassadors for Greater Essex. They should be able to influence their network and feed business intelligence into discussions on economic strategy.

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Essex County Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities, Economic Growth and Prosperity, said: “The Greater Essex Business Board will advise, advocate and lobby, helping to influence the issues and decisions that truly impact local businesses.

“We are seeking business influencers with an outstanding knowledge of their sector to join the Board and I would urge those based across Greater Essex and beyond to consider applying.”

Councillor John Kent, Leader of Thurrock Council, said: “Thurrock is set to benefit from over £5 billion of inward investment thanks to Thames Freeport, which will create exciting opportunities for businesses in Thurrock and beyond.

“By working together with the wider Essex business community, we can make sure that Thurrock, Southend and Essex become an engine of growth innovation and opportunity. I urge our local business leaders to put their name forward.”

Councillor Daniel Cowan, leader of Southend-on-Sea City Council: “It is great to see the new business board launched. If you are an experienced business leader who is well connected nationally and internationally, who wants to talk up the local area and help drive investment and growth, we look forward to hearing from you.”

Applications are now open for members and the Chair of the Greater Essex Business Board.

Prospective applicants should read the full member and chair specifications.

They should then email business.board@essex.gov.uk with a CV and supporting statement. The supporting statement should explain how you meet the criteria set out in the specification and what you would bring to the role. 

Applications close at 12pm on Thursday 7 November 2024.

More information on the Greater Essex Business Board and how to apply is available at www.essex.gov.uk/business/greater-essex-business-board. 

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ECC Household Support Fund Allocation

The scheme, introduced under the previous government, is designed to support vulnerable families and we are replicating much that we have done previously, whilst also recognising the important need to support pensioners, following the government’s decision to remove Winter Fuel Allowance to over 300,000 pensioners in Essex.

Funding will be available through different access points, including the Essential Living Fund, food support groups, community supermarkets and local voluntary and community sector organisations, such as the Citizens Advice Bureau.

As well as specific support for pensioners, funding for families in receipt of free school meals will continue, as will targeted support for young carers and care leavers. 

As part of the £9.4 million package, we are focusing on key areas of support. These include:

• £1 million targeted to support low-income pensioners with core costs over the winter month via the Essential Living Fund
• £4.5 million for the Essential Living Fund to help with emergency crisis situations
• £2.8 million for winter vouchers for families in receipt of free school meals
• £100,000 for voluntary and community groups
• £250,000 for food support groups
• £150,000 for Citizens Advice Bureaus to provide additional support and advice
• £80,000 for Community Supermarkets
• £37,500 for young carers in Essex
• £42,500 for care leavers’ winter hampers and vouchers
• £10,000 to support winter warmth schemes working in collaboration with Essex Libraries
• £40,000 for marketing and communications to signpost residents to available support

More information on help with the cost of living is available at https://www.essex.gov.uk/help-cost-living.

Residents are also urged to contact the Essential Living Fund if they are struggling financially, by visiting www.southend.gov.uk/extra-financial-help/essential-living-fund.

As a reminder, the fund can support with:

• furniture
• household furnishings
• white goods
• general living expenses - these are day to day living expenses such as groceries, nappies, toiletries and fuel

We are aware that some Districts/Boroughs in Essex are also offering their own additional support for fuel expenses this Winter, through their own schemes.

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The We Rise youth movement, supported by Essex County Council, is breaking down barriers and empowering young residents to start their own business.

We Rise is funding a second round of places for young people in Basildon and Castle Point on an Earniversity course. The course will give them the skills they need to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality.

The first round has already helped young people earn £3,000 through different businesses.

Over the summer, 19 young residents participated in the course. The funded places were open to 13 to 25-year-olds in Basildon and Castle Point. The course:

• encouraged participants to make real earnings - participants earned £3,000 by launching their own businesses and side hustles, from website design to dog walking
• boosted their confidence - 85% of participants reported feeling more confident and 70% felt more comfortable speaking to others
• inspired the young people - 73% of the young entrepreneurs are eager to join more courses by Earniversity and 10 have now gone on to start their own business

One participant shared: “I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the tips and information were incredibly useful. The flexibility of online sessions meant I could fit it around my other commitments. I started freelancing and earned over £1,000 in just four weeks!”

The next course starts on Monday 4 November and is held online in the evenings, making it easy for those balancing education, training or work.

Councillor Tony Ball, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning, and Employability, said: “Supporting young people to achieve their aspirations is a priority for us. The Earniversity programme will equip them with valuable skills they can put into practice right away.

“It has been great to see what We Rise have been able to achieve over the last year. The movement has been a fantastic way to understand and nurture the ambitions of our young residents. I urge young people who are interested to register now and see what they can achieve.”

Spaces are limited and interested applicants are encouraged to sign up now to secure a spot.

Young people can complete the online form to secure a place.

For more information about We Rise, email Louise Fry: Louise.fry@essex.gov.uk.

 

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Braintree District Council have produced a Winter Fuel Allowance Guidance Booklet.  Please click HERE to read the information. 

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 Please click HERE to see how you can use the Demand Response Transport (DaRT) service. 

This is an alternative way of providing access to key services in rural areas.  DaRT services differ from bus services as they are flexible and may divert on and off route to collect and drop off passengers within their operating area.
DaRT 3 is available Monday to Saturday from 6am - 8pm
(no operation on Bank Holidays). 

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For an updated Harvest Festival shoppling list please click HERE 

This list includes non food items that we need, such as a simple bar of soap and toothbrushes and toothpaste.  We know that some of you have already made your Harvest donations and we are thankful for every item that has been donated.

If you know of someone who could use our help but are perhaps a bit too proud to ask please encourage them to get in touch.  All are welcomed with a smile and confidentiality.  We also want to remind you that if anyone wants or needs to check their eligibility for state help, such as pension credits, please give them the https://www.turn2us.org.uk/ link. This website will let you know what documentation you need to make an assessment. Is there someone within your parish, congregation, group or organisation that could take the time to help someone in need?

 

Towards the end of this month I will be distributing the reverse advent calendar so that groups and organisations can be ready for the 1st of November when it begins.

 

We are blessed and grateful for your invaluable support, without your donations people would go hungry.

 

Kind regards

Vanessa

--

Vanessa Green

Communications Manager

 

Braintree Area Foodbank Ltd

Postal Address: Unit 6 Lakes Industrial Estate, Lower Chapel Hill,

Braintree, CM7 3RU

pm@braintreearea.foodbank.org.uk

01376 330694

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/braintreeareafoodbank

www.braintreearea.foodbank.org.uk

Registered Charity:  Charity No - 1148782  Company No - 8183618

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The first ever Ambitious Essex Business Summit will take place next month, Essex County Council has announced.

The summit will bring the business community together for a landmark event designed to inspire growth, innovation, and collaboration. It is open to all Essex-based firms, from startups to established enterprises.

It will take place on Wednesday 9 October 2024, at Hylands House in Chelmsford.

The theme of the summit, "Grow, Innovate, Connect", captures the key objectives of the day. Attendees will gain insights into:

• business support offered by the council
• sustainable practices and green opportunities
• how to embrace innovation
• learning from other local businesses

Local athlete Danny Crates, one of the UK's most decorated Paralympians, will be acting as host for the day, sharing his own inspirational story.

The summit will feature a panel session chaired by former Secretary State for Education, the Rt Hon Justine Greening, who is now chair of the Purpose Coalition.

Other guest speakers include Freddie Fford, founder of Patch, and Bolaji Sofoluwe, founder of ETK Group.

Event highlights Include:

• keynote speakers featuring top local business leaders and innovators
• expert-led workshops delivered by partners including, Let’s Do Business Group, ARU (Anglia Ruskin University), Innovate UK, ACL, Deyton Bell, Essex County Council’s own procurement team and H-Creative
• networking opportunities and a dedicated networking space hosted by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)
• hands-on zones focused on innovation, sustainability, business support and skills and inclusive employment
• local food and drink entrepreneurs, learn more about the growing Essex gastro-culture landscape

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Levelling Up, Communities and Business Engagement at Essex County Council, said "The Ambitious Essex Business Summit event offers a unique opportunity for local businesses to come together and engage directly with us, so we can better understand their needs.

“Attendees will also have the opportunity to discuss the different roles played in driving growth, and we hope the event will strengthen relationships within the Essex business community.”

Councillor Tony Ball, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, said: “I look forward to attending the first-ever Ambitious Essex Business Summit. This exciting event is vital as we look to align our skills and business support agenda.

“The right skills are an essential component of business success and growth, and the event will provide Essex businesses with the opportunity to learn more about what support is available in the county, as well as provide an opportunity for businesses to share their needs directly with us.”

Tickets are limited and businesses should secure a free ticket early.

Further speakers and details will be released soon.

Reserve your place now by visiting the Ambitious Essex Business Summit Registration website.

Cllr Peter Schwier AIEMA

Climate Czar

Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction & Recycling

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   Great Start- Free business training to support transition to NetZero

 Businesses can now learn how to be greener with Essex County Council's easily digestible Great Start programme.

A series of free educational videos aim to support local businesses on their journey to becoming net zero.

The benefits of being a green business are plentiful. Not only can organisations save money, but they also enhance their reputation.

Greener businesses also often experience boosted staff morale. Furthermore, sustainable practices can unlock new market opportunities and drive innovation.

The new videos are available to businesses of all shape and sizes across Greater Essex. Available on YouTube, the ever-expanding series covers a range of content for supporting the transition to net-zero.

Some of the topics covered include developing a Sustainability Action Plan and establishing green procurement practices.

With hundreds of views secured within the weeks of launching, the demand for this easy-to-digest content is clearly strong.

The team behind the initiative is now reviewing feedback and engagement to inform new content, helping to keep the modules fresh and relevant.

To reward viewers for their learning, each business or individual will receive a digital badge for every module completed by scanning the QR code at the end of each video. Businesses and individuals can proudly display these on their digital platforms to demonstrate their sustainability commitments to partners and clients.

Councillor Tony Ball, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability said: “The Great Start programme is an invaluable tool for businesses to help them develop sustainable practices. It also helps them meet national and international regulations and stay competitive in a fast-changing market. This programme is for all businesses of any sector to ensure we are all on the same ambitious journey to net-zero.

“Our goal is to ensure our business community is not left behind in the shift to greener ways of working. We encourage feedback from businesses — after all the programme was born from local organisations expressing their interest in sustainability, but not quite knowing where to start on their journeys.”

Councillor Peter Schwier, Essex County Council Climate Czar and Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction and Recycling added: “We are committed to reaching our net zero goals by 2050 and bringing businesses along with us. The programme is an essential tool to ensure organisations are set to thrive in a greener economy.

“This programme complements our newly updated Business Advice Pack, offering businesses easy-to-follow advice for cutting their environmental impact. With these new resources under their belt, we’re confident our business community have the tools they need to significantly reduce their carbon footprint and make Essex a greener and healthier place for everyone.”

View the full Great Start programme and start your journey towards a sustainable future.  

Cllr Peter Schwier AIEMA

Climate Czar

Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction & Recycling

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The county’s tourism organisation Visit Essex is supporting businesses to extend the tourism season by offering a range of prizes for local residents.

Visit Essex is offering people the chance to win big with free tickets to attractions, overnight stays and meal vouchers, which will help extend the visitor season and support local businesses.

The Essex Big Weekend takes place from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 October. Essex residents can enter a ballot to win standout prizes at attractions across the county from Monday 19 August. Prizes can be redeemed during the Essex Big Weekend.

Seventy Essex-based businesses are participating, including landmarks Colchester Zoo, Audley End House and Gardens, Hedingham Castle, Hylands Estate, Colchester Castle and many more.

Councillor Mark Durham, Chairman of Visit Essex, said: “We’re keen to support local businesses and extend the tourism season. The Essex Big Weekend helps us to do that. Seventy Visit Essex attractions have taken part in this year’s ballot, and there are over 660 prizes to win. This is more than we’ve ever had before with so many businesses getting involved. It’s also a great chance for our residents to win an exciting prize and get out and about to explore their county.”

Colchester Zoo, Clacton Pier and Colchester Castle are offering free tickets, while a game of golf or a spa experience is up for grabs at a number of attractions. Local residents also have the chance to win a family ticket to Audley End House and Gardens or take to the trees at Go Ape in Chelmsford.

The 1935 restaurant at Holiday Inn, Southend, is giving residents the chance to secure a Sunday roast for two and hotels across the county are offering afternoon tea for two experiences. The popular Tiptree Tea Rooms has a prize of a cream tea for two.

Residents can also win a short break with the Essex Big Weekend ballot. Overnight stays for two at a range of hotels are available to win, while, if camping is preferred, a voucher worth £250 for any Lee Valley campsite is on offer.

The Essex Big Weekend will take place from Friday 4 to Sunday 6 October 2024. The ballot opens on Monday 19 August and closes on Monday 16 September. To enter the ballot, visit www.essexbigweekend.co.uk.¹ A full list of prizes to win will be available on the Essex Big Weekend website from Monday 19 August.

For more things to see and do, plus places to eat, drink and stay, see www.visitessex.com. 

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    Green skills and careers are being made more accessible in Essex as environmental jobs are expected to nearly double across the county by 2030.

The newly launched Essex Green Skills offers training, job opportunities and insights to remove barriers in the sector, helping residents and businesses get ahead of the curve.

It includes:

• Green Courses: search for training programmes across Essex
• Green Jobs: find careers in the green sector
• Sector Insights: explore industries which need green skills
• Business Information: discover how your business can improve sustainable practices
• Resources: teaching and training resources to enhance green skills development

The Green Skills Infrastructure Review commissioned by Essex County Council revealed a rapidly growing green economy across the county.

It projects green jobs to increase by a staggering 96% between 2019 and 2030, while most other jobs will transition to include elements of green skills.

Major infrastructure projects such as the Lower Thames Crossing, garden communities and retrofitting of buildings to meet new standards will need workers with skills in sustainability.

In collaboration with the Essex Provider Network, Essex Green Skills helps residents and businesses contribute to the greener future by supporting informed choices now.

Councillor Tony Ball, Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, said: “We know from our work with businesses that there is a demand for green skills. Businesses want to improve their sustainable practices.

“As Essex works towards becoming net zero, providing our businesses, educators and residents with the tools to develop green skills is hugely important to us.

“Essex Green Skills is one of several initiatives led by the council to simplify the employment system and reduce barriers to opportunity. This ensures all our residents and businesses can access information and advice, supporting our journey to becoming an Inclusive Careers County.”

Essex residents, businesses and educators can access the new Essex Green Skills website at www.essexgreenskills.co.uk

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Free Digital Switchover webinars for businesses – are you ready for the change?
Find out how to future-proof your company for the switch from analogue to broadband phone lines by attending one of our upcoming free webinars from Digital Essex with Ambitious Essex and Farrpoint. Use the links below to register for your free ticket.

When:
Tuesday 17 September, 12:30pm-1:30pm
 
What will be covered:
 What the Digital Phone Switchover is
 Why it matters
 What the impact will be on businesses in the county
 Steps you will need to take to ensure that you and your business is prepared
 Changes to mobile phone coverage and why this matters

For more information please see our website. Is your business ready for the end of analogue phonelines? (superfastessex.org)

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For the latest foodbank shopping list please click HERE. 

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Park and Ride returns to Broomfield Hospital

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Essex residents, businesses and visitors are being given a first opportunity to help shape an upcoming strategy guiding the future of transport in the county.

Essex County Council has launched a public consultation on its Essex Transport Strategy, formally known as the Local Transport Plan.

The strategy will provide an overarching plan for transport across Essex and outline the council’s vision.

The consultation focuses on key themes and outcomes as an opportunity for the public to provide feedback, helping inform further development of the strategy.

The consultation also proposes a new ‘Place and Movement’ approach. This would introduce a more flexible and people-focused way to categorise roads and streets in Essex.

Councillor Tom Cunningham, Essex County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Infrastructure and Sustainable Transport, said: “Transport is critical to all aspects of our everyday lives. It determines how we travel to and from work, do the school run or visit the local shops, as well as how businesses move goods and services around. Transport underpins it all.

“Our new and emerging Essex Transport Strategy will play a vital role in setting important transport priorities for Essex. It reflects the opportunities and challenges we face now while building upon our Safer, Greener and Healthier vision.

“It will help inform our future decisions and actions while unlocking funding opportunities to support us in providing the transport network our county needs.

“We are still in the process of developing the strategy and this public consultation is an early opportunity for you to provide feedback on the key principles. I would encourage everyone to have their say.”

The initial public consultation will run for seven weeks, closing on Sunday 22 September 2024, and can be accessed at https://consultations.essex.gov.uk/essex-highways/essex-transport-strategy/ 

* A second consultation on the full draft strategy and a programme of planned investment in different parts of Essex is expected to take place early next year.

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   For the latest shopping list and job advert for the Braintree Foodbank please see below.

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Are you ready for the end of analogue landlines? 
 
Essex County Council’s Digital Essex team wants to make residents in Toppesfield aware that changes are coming to analogue landlines.  
 
By 2027, traditional phone lines will be replaced by a digital landline service. This means that calls will be made over a broadband line. 
 
For most residents, this change will be straightforward – you’ll also get to keep your phone number. Your telephone provider will contact you
before anything changes. It is important to respond and discuss what you need to do to ensure your service won’t be affected. 
 
The switch to digital landline services could affect some residents. If any of the following apply to you, or someone you know, make sure you
contact your telephone provider:  

• You don’t have broadband 
• You rely solely on a landline 
• You use a personal alarm or healthcare device 
• You live in an area with poor mobile signal 
• You have additional needs 

 
If you’re confused, worried, unsure, or have any questions, call your telephone provider. 
 
Visit us at an event near you! Digital Essex will be attending events across Essex this Spring and Summer, where we’ll be sharing the latest
information about changes to phone lines. This is subject to change so please see the full list of events at www.superfastessex.org/landline-
switch-events.
 
If you’d like to read more about the switch to digital landlines, visit Essex County Council’s website: www.essex.gov.uk/landline-switch

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Free courses available to residents and businesses across Essex, through Multiply

More than 5,000 residents have improved their numbers skills with free courses through Multiply in Essex.

Multiply has been running in Essex since January 2023. Offering bite-size training to adults aged 19 and above, over 5,000 people have so far benefitted from courses.

Delivered by a network of college and education providers, courses focus on things like:

• assisting residents to gain qualifications and progress at work
• support with managing finances
• helping children with their schoolwork

Charity 3Food4U runs both face-to-face and online Multiply courses. Subjects include everything from functional skills qualifications to cooking on a budget.

One of the participants, Jill, from Ongar, said: “I was very nervous. I was never any good at maths at school. But this was different, very relaxed and practical. I feel so happy I’ve achieved something.”

Ian, from Loughton, said: “The course is very easy to understand, and I did it online in my own time. I’ve learnt so much and feel more confident with numbers.”

The Multiply campaign is now in phase two. This will see at least 4,000 new opportunities created, including 800 specifically targeted to businesses, helping them upskill their workforce.

Multiply aims to address a skills gap in Essex, where adult numeracy ranks lower compared to the national average.

Find out more at the Essex Opportunities website: www.essexopportunities.co.uk/multiply.

Read more about how Multiply is benefitting residents in Essex.

Cllr Peter Schwier AIEMA

Climate Czar

Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction & Recycling

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Free climate action packs have been created by Essex County Council to help residents and businesses become more              sustainable.

The five Climate Action Advice Packs offer cost-effective and achievable solutions tailored for four different groups. These are:

• Residents
• Schools
• Businesses
• Early years and childcare settings

The packs, originally launched in 2022, have been updated with new information as well as a fresh look and feel.

This includes funding and volunteering opportunities. The residents pack has also been produced in an accessible easy-read version.

Climate Action Advice Packs are part of the council’s Everyone’s Essex commitment to work closely with communities and businesses over climate action.

This involves providing advice and support to empower local action in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building climate resilience. 

The advice packs are just one of the projects being delivered under the council’s ambitious Climate Action Plan.

Sam Kennedy, Director for Environment & Climate Action at Essex County Council, said: "These climate advice packs are fantastic resources for everyone in Essex who wants to become more sustainable.

“Each pack signposts to links and opportunities specific for each group so we can all do our part in working towards net-zero by 2050.

“I am also delighted to see the launch of an easy-read version of our resident pack which will help make climate action accessible to more people across our county.”  

The Climate Action Advice Packs can be downloaded for free at www.essexclimate.org.uk/what-can-i-do

Cllr Peter Schwier AIEMA

Climate Czar

Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction & Recycling

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 RCCE is recruiting!

 Rural Community Council of Essex is recruiting for the following role within the organisation. It is home based and there can be flexibility around hours.

Community Agent - Maldon (South)

This is a permanent, home-based part time position.

Do you enjoy or want a rewarding role working for a local charity, supporting adults to live independently?

This is not a carers role

We are a network of people who provide advice and guidance to adults; in particular older people, but it can be anyone over 18 who requires a home visit to help them to remain living in their own homes. We’re also here to help Informal carers.

The job involves visiting people in their own homes – on an appointment system – and explaining the help and support that is available to meet their individual needs. It is not a personal caring role.

The job is flexible to fit around personal/family commitments, working between 15 and 20 hours a week .

The starting salary is £12.00 per hour plus travelling expenses. Full training and support will be provided but you must have a good knowledge of the local community and the district.

You must be able to demonstrate that you can proactively engage with and support people in the community often on a one-to-one basis. Working as part of a wider team, we form a network of agents covering Essex. You must have excellent spoken and written communication skills and possess the ability to problem solve. You must have good IT skills, a full driving licence and use of your own car.

All appointments will be subject to a DBS check.

to find out more and apply visit Rural Community Council of Essex website

www.essexrcc.org.uk/contact/working-for-us

Applications are preferred using the application form

All applications or enquiries should be sent to: sarah.sapsford@essexrcc.org.uk

To apply visit https://www.communityagentsessex.org.uk/Vacancies/Community_Agent_Posts.aspx

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 WHO WANTS MORE NIGHT FLIGHTS?

This consultation will influence the Government’s decision on the number and type of night flights to be permitted at Stansted after the present  restrictions end in October next year.  It is an important opportunity for local residents, as well as local councils, to make their
views known to the Department of Transport.  The consulation closes on 22 May 2024.  For more ingormaiton please click HERE 

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  The May shopping list for the Braintree Area Foodbank is available by clciking HERE

If you are interested in being a volunteer finance director for the Briantree Area Foodbank please click HERE for more informaiton. 

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To see the annual report from County Councillor Peter Schwier please click HERE

The publication Everyone's Essex from Essex County Council please click HERE.  This provides details of ECC's priorities and what they have achieved and what they deliver.

District Councillor Richard van Dulken's annual report can be viewed by clicking HERE.

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   For the April shopping list from the Braintree Area Foodbank                                 please click HERE 

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Travel Essex is conducting a survey to better understanding public opinion of the bus services in Essex. We are committed to enhancing public transportation services across the region. To achieve this goal, we are reaching out to gather valuable insights from residents regarding their opinions and suggestions for improving bus services in Essex.

We kindly request your assistance in sharing the attached document within your respective communities. Whether through your social media channels, website, or other communication platforms, your support in promoting this survey is greatly appreciated.

The online survey will be accessible starting Monday, March 4th, 2024, and will remain open until Sunday, March 17th, 2024.

Please note that the survey link provided below will only be active from the specified start date:

Survey Link: https://consultations.essex.gov.uk/h-t/f9874637

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For the latest Newsletter from Stansted Airport Watch please click HERE

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To See the AdLent calendar please click HERE

For volunteer warehouse staff and drivers please click HERE

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Did you know you can report potholes and other issues directly to Essex County Council?

If you visit the Essex County Council Website at Tell us - Essex County Council (essexhighways.org) you can report any of the following issues and follow the directions. The quicker issues are reported the quicker they will hopefully be resolved. 

To pin point the exact location of your issue you can use the What3words app as described in this video by Essex County Councillor Peter Schweir.

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     Please Click HERE for the February shopping list request

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   Rural Community Council of Essex (RCCE) are recruiting.  

Community Engagement Officer

Part Time position – 14-18 hrs per week negotiable. Circa £26,000 (pro rata)

 Rural Community Council of Essex (RCCE) has a vacancy within its Community Engagement Team.

At RCCE, we believe that communities have the power to influence change and our Community Engagement Team are at the heart of that by working with local communities to plan for their future, in particular, by supporting parish councils and community groups in the production of Community Led Plans. The team also works to help communities identify local housing needs and aspirations, and provides a Village Halls Service, supporting communities to manage their local assets.

You will help promote the services within the team, provide advice and guidance for volunteers working on Community Led Plans, in particular Neighbourhood Plans and provide support to parishes engaging with their wider community to identify priorities. You will also keep up to date with local and national policy, making groups and parishes aware of any changes and will be involved with training and network events.

To be successful in the role you need to versatile, comfortable engaging with groups and individuals, able to prioritise and problem solve and have experience of, or ability to present to parish councils and groups, with the capacity to understand policies. Having a can-do attitude and good communication skills will help you in the role.

If you understand the challenges that rural communities face, have a passion for enabling volunteers and can enthuse people, then we would love to hear from you.

There will be some evening and weekend working, but time off in lieu is given for this work.  This post requires you to have a full driving licence and access to a car.

Application deadline: 12pm Monday 27th January 2024

Contact: Sarah Sapsford (Community Engagement & Services Manager) - sarah.sapsford@essexrcc.org.uk or www.essexrcc.org.uk   RCCE registered charity no 1097009 Registered company no 4609624

To apply you must complete an application form and an equality monitoring form - which are attached and can also be downloaded from the website or by contacting RCCE: http://www.essexrcc.org.uk/Working_for_us

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Braintree District Council approves Policy for Household Waste and Recycling Collections

C360 News Update 7 December 2023 (mailchi.mp)

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Residents and businesses can now share how they think Essex County Council should prioritise its 2024/25 budget, as part of a new consultation.

Next year, the council will spend over £2 billion on essential services, as well as investment in the county’s infrastructure and future growth. 

The council has a track record of robust financial management, having saved £235m over the past five years.

However, the financial outlook for local authorities in general is highly uncertain. This is in large part due to the significant impacts of high inflation, rising interest rates and the continued pressure of the cost-of-living situation.

With this uncertain outlook in mind, the council is asking residents and businesses for their views on:

• the big issues it faces and the challenges that lie ahead for Essex
• the things that concern you and your family
• where we should focus resources as we work to improve lives across our county
  
  

The responses received will be used to inform the delivery of Everyone’s Essex in 2024/25 and beyond.

Councillor Chris Whitbread, the cabinet member responsible for finance, said: “We don’t have all the answers when it comes to addressing the challenges we face locally and nationally. Like many households across Essex, we must also make difficult choices about where we spend our budget and where to make savings.  

“We can learn a lot from our communities and it’s important we create opportunities for people and businesses to help inform our priorities for the coming year. A positive way of doing this is by sharing your views during the consultation.”

The consultation on the county council’s 2024/25 budget is open until Sunday 3 December. It can be completed here: https://consultations.essex.gov.uk/rci/ecc-budget-consultation-2024-25/

Cllr Peter Schwier AIEMA, Climate Czar, Cabinet Member for Environment, Waste Reduction & Recycling

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    For the Christmas shopping list please click here.  

Thank you, as always, for your continued support.  

Braintree Area Foodbank Ltd

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       Apply now for 2024 primary school places

Primary school applications are now open for children set to start school in September 2024.

Children are entitled to start primary school in the September after their fourth birthday. Parents and carers of children born between 1 September 2019 and 31 August 2020 need to apply during this window.

Applications can be made from today, Monday 6 November, until the national closing date of Monday 15 January. Parents and carers can apply online at www.essex.gov.uk/admissions.

Applications received after the 15 January deadline will only be considered once all on time applications are determined. This means applying late could reduce your child’s chance of getting a place at their preferred school.

Councillor Tony Ball, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, said: “Starting school for the first time marks an exciting milestone in a child’s life and we want to ensure the application process is as smooth as possible for parents and carers.

“Parents applying on time and using their four preferences will help to ensure their child gets the best possible opportunity of a place at a preferred school for when they start their primary education from September 2024.”

Further information about the admissions process and individual schools can be found at www.essex.gov.uk/admissions.

Thank you very much for all the donations to Braintree Area Foodbank you have made over harvest.    An especial thanks to those church partners and school partners who held harvest festivals.   

Looking ahead, the November Shopping List is below. Foodbanks would like to render themselves unnecessary.  Our aim has always been to run ourselves out of business in ten years... but unfortunately the need for food and other essential items is greater than ever.  As always we appreciate your support.

Essex County Council (ECC) are running a public consultation regarding the future of Recycling Centre bookings from 

Monday, 9 October to Sunday 19th November 2023.  

The consultation website address is essex.gov.uk/recyclingcentrebookings.  

 This is an opportunity for members of the public to have their say on the current appointment based system and all feedback will be used to help determine whether or not this should become a permanent arrangement.  ECC will publish a summary report of the consultation feedback after the consultation is complete and responses have been analysed.  

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London Stansted is hosting a jobs fair to recruit hundreds of new employees ahead of the winter season.

Around 500 job openings will be on offer in the areas such as flight crew, baggage handling, security, retail, and hospitality at the airport's Radisson Blu Hotel on October 10.

Stansted has made the best recovery of any airport in the UK following the pandemic and August was one of its busiest months on record.

The airport and some of its on-site businesses are now looking to recruit staff for the winter, especially for the Christmas peak.

There will be free parking or free travel to the event.

Pre-registration is required, for more information please click HERE  

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  A message from the project manager

I am reaching out to you myself this month as we approach Harvest Festival. Every year we face different challenges, and we are ever thankful for your continued support to aid us to meet these challenges head on. 

Braintree District Council (BDC) will be introducing the new opt-in subscription service to collect garden waste across the district in March 2024.

You can now register your expression of interest to join the new service.

Collections will be every fortnight throughout the year apart from the week before and the week after Christmas, compared to the current service which is suspended for 3 months over the winter period. 

The subscription fee from 4 March up to and including 31 March 2025 (13 Months) is £55 however if you sign up by 30 November 2023 you can benefit from a 50% early bird discount, bringing the cost down to just £27.50 which equates to around £1 per collection in the first year. Additional bins are available for an extra charge.   

When can I sign up for the 50% early bird discount?

BDC will let you know when the payment system goes live in a future newsletter, and you can keep an eye on our social media.

To find out more about the new subscription service, answers to some frequently asked questions and to register your expression of interest, please visit the BDC website.

   Unfortunately, the number number of children coming into care continues to rise and more foster cares are needed to ensure every child can grow up in a safe, secure and nurturing home.  Could you help? 

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    Could you spare some time to help?

Essex residents can sign up for free one-to-one coaching with a qualified coach under a trial scheme run by Essex County Council.

Coaching for financial wellbeing provides the opportunity to access confidential support about  spending behaviours and money management to make small changes that can help you get to where you want to be with your finances.

 The coach works with the client to explore their relationship with money, set financial goals and help boost confidence and skills in managing finances.

 The scheme is aimed at residents who feel ready to make changes to improve their financial wellbeing.

The sessions can be face-to-face or online and can be scheduled at a time which suits the client.

 The coaching scheme is available to parent(s) with a child or children under the age of 18 who have £100 or more income per month after outgoings.

 To be eligible, residents must live one of the following areas: Braintree

 Bumpstead, Gosfield and Greenstead Green, Halstead St Andrew’s, Halstead Trinity, Hedingham, Stour Valley North, Stour Valley South, The Colnes, Three Fields, Yeldham

Councillor Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council, said: “We know that with the current financial pressures there are some families that would benefit from additional support with tackling their financial situation. This innovative scheme involves working one-to-one with a skilled coach who can provide the space and time to help residents reflect on their financial situation and feel more confident manging their money in the long-term.”

 The scheme is funded by Essex County Council, working with OLightOn. It is available until 17 April 2024.

 Residents can apply to take part in the scheme at https://forms.office.com/e/cZbH464TZJ.

For more information, email essex@olighton.com or call 07759 835548.

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For the latest information from the Stansted Airport Watch click HERE

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 For the July shopping list please click here.  

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Essex Library Service has a fantastic new challenge for pre-schoolers happening this summer.

Ready… Steady… Go To School is a fun challenge full of activities which will help your child to practice skills that they’ll need to help them feel confident and be ready to start school in September.

The challenge is running in all Essex libraries until 31 July and will include a range of activities within seven challenge areas. These are:

• speaking and listening
• being active
• personal, social and emotional skills
• early reading and writing
• maths and numbers
• understanding the world
• express yourself

Children will earn stamps in their special booklet as they go along and receive a certificate once they’ve finished all seven sections.

The challenge is a great way for your child to prepare physically and emotionally for starting school and will provide parents and carers with some top tips and useful information too.

Cllr Louise McKinlay, Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Community, Equality, Partnerships and Performance, said: “Starting school is an exciting time for children and parents but it can be a daunting experience too.

“This challenge aims to prepare little ones for when they take that big step through the school gates, by building their confidence as they start to learn what to expect on their first day.”

Visit any Essex library to sign up now and don’t forget to follow @essexlibraries on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, where you can send in pictures of you completing your challenges.

You can find out more information about the challenge on the Essex Library Service website here: https://libraries.essex.gov.uk/news/ready-steady-go-to-school-challenge

The library service is also running Big School Meet Ups during the May Half Term for children who will be starting school in September. You can find a session near you here: https://library-events.essex.gov.uk/search?q=big+school

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      For June's shopping list please click here

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For the latest information from Stansted Airport Watch please click here

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     For this months shopping list please click here

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      to view the Hedingham Division annual Report 22/23 please click here

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Bus Fare Increase on ECC Supported Services 01 April 2023

                                                                             please click here to see more information. 

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    For the April shopping list please click here.  

It is understand that, comparing January and February of this year with last year, we have fed 119% more people  in January and February 2023 than in the same months in 2022.   

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Essex Highways is calling on landowners with ditches and low hanging trees near roads to make sure these are cleared and cut back ahead of the spring.

Carrying out this work ensures that roads and pathways are kept clear as vegetation grows during the warmer months making them easier to use for pedestrians and motorists. 

Landowners are responsible for maintaining trees, hedges, shrubs and ditches on their land, even if they are close or next to a road or pavement. They have a duty of care to take reasonable steps to prevent, or reduce as far as possible, the risk of injury or damage that could be caused to anyone else. 

In addition, Essex Highways will resume grass cutting and weed spraying services to prevent overgrown vegetation from blocking the highway and causing flooding.

Completing this work before the spring also ensures nesting birds are not disturbed and helps prevent flooding in wet conditions, as well as improving visibility and usability of the network for local residents.

Examples of works that should be carried out by landowners include:

• Cutting back overhanging branches, which reduce the width of or block the view of the road.
• Cutting back overhanging branches that reduce the height or clearance of the road for tall vehicles such as double decker school buses.
• Removing or trimming a damaged or diseased tree that is in danger of falling onto the road or pavement.
• Trimming overgrown hedges obscuring road signs or streetlights.
• Clearing of any ditches located on private land to avoid any flooding during periods of heavy rain.

Most trees and hedges by roads are on land owned by private landowners, including district councils, city council, parish councils, housing associations and homeowners.

Cllr Lee Scott, Essex County Council Cabinet Member for Highways Maintenance and Sustainable Transport said: “The maintenance of the vegetation found on our road network plays a crucial role in ensuring they are safe for all road users.

“We will do our bit to ensure that the vegetation and ditches located on our land are maintained. However, we are unable to maintain anything located on private land. This is where we will need the help of landowners.

“Please look after the area outside your home by keeping any overhanging vegetation and ditches clear and encourage your neighbours to do the same.”

The consultation on Essex Highways’ plans to remove and replace the 200-year-old bridge in Finchingfield are now available to view and residents will be able to submit their views from Thursday 19 January.

The plans propose replacing the existing bridge, which is weak and deteriorating with a new bridge and temporary pond crossing, to support traffic flows in the area during bridge construction.

The replacement bridge will be built in the same place as the existing one and where possible, Essex Highways will retain the same look and feel, so as not to impact on the aesthetic of the picturesque village.

Councillor Lee Scott, Cabinet Member for Highways Maintenance and Sustainable Transport said: “I understand the bridge in Finchingfield takes pride of place in the centre of the village, but its weak and deteriorating state means it is imperative it is replaced. I would encourage members of the public to take this opportunity to review the plans and share their views with us.”

Further information on the project can be viewed here: https://www.essexhighways.org/finchingfield-bridge-b1053-finchingfield

The planning application can also be found in accessible form here: https://planning.essex.gov.uk/

Cllr Peter Schwier

Climate Czar

Deputy Cabinet Member to the Leader

MEDIA RELEASE: Braintree District Council updates on Ministry of Justice Wethersfield prison proposals

 Councillor Graham Butland, Leader of Braintree District Council, said: “Over a year has gone by since the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) announced their proposed plans to build two prisons on the Wethersfield airfield site. The Council and local communities are still waiting on a decision whether the MoJ are going to submit a planning application for the proposals or not.

 “We share resident’s frustration on wanting answers about the MoJ’s intentions on the prison proposals. It is not fair for our local communities to continue to face the current uncertainty. I will therefore be sending an official letter to the Secretary of State for Justice to ask for an update as soon as possible, so we can understand their future plans and impress upon the Secretary of State the need to share those plans with the local community at the earliest opportunity. 

 “We know how much interest there has been amongst residents and communities around these proposals, and we absolutely value resident’s opinions and views. Council officers, alongside expert environmental and other consultants, have had lengthy discussions with the MoJ over the past year through a Planning Performance Agreement, advising them on planning matters as they consider whether to submit a planning application or not. Throughout this time, officers have raised several issues related to the proposals that were put before us and the community, including the suitability of location, accessibility, road and environmental impacts, and have been clear through this engagement that the MoJ would need to address the issues highlighted by the council and the local community if a planning application is submitted in the future.

 “Braintree District Council, as the local planning authority, must remain impartial and transparent given its future role in any potential planning application coming forward. To act otherwise could be considered as pre-determination, which could form the basis of a legal challenge against the council to any final decisions made. We will however be watching several planning appeals for proposed prisons elsewhere in the country with interest in the New Year.

 “The Council will continue to fulfil its planning related role and play an active role in discussions about a potential application, but we recognise that it has now got to the point, over a year since the MoJ’s public consultation, where we need answers and clarity to stop the uncertainty continuing to hang over our communities. We also know that the prison proposals cover only part of the current airbase site and there is wider interest in the future use of the whole site. We are pleased therefore to be supporting local parish councils to consider the future of the whole airbase through neighbourhood plans.

 “We have previously committed to keeping residents updated on what we can regarding the prison proposals, and we will continue to do so, including pressing the MoJ to keep communicating with residents on their proposals.”