Sign up to our daily newsletter for all the latest Kent stories and breaking news delivered straight to your inbox Thank you for subscribing!We have more newsletters An NHS postcode lottery means that one in 10 patients in some parts of the country have to wait over a month to see someone at their GP surgery More than 1.5 million appointments at practices across England in March took place more than four weeks after being booked That’s the same proportion as in March 2024 and also in March 2019 Where you live in the country has a huge impact on how likely it is that you’ll have to wait over a month in order to see someone at your doctor’s surgery though Around one in nine (11%) of March GP appointments in Gloucestershire took place more than 28 days after booking That’s the highest ratio of any Sub-Integrated Care Board location in the country In four regions it was 9% of appointments - East Riding Of Yorkshire and Sheffield - and in another seven it was 8% - Barnsley The figure for NHS Kent and Medway is 6% of appointments Take a look at the interactive map to see how the different areas compare: waiting over a month for an appointment is very rare in some parts of the country Just 1% of March appointments in North Central London took place more than 28 days after booking In 11 areas it was just 2% of appointments - Coventry and Warwickshire GPs are providing millions more appointments to people in England and better access through upgraded technology There were 31.4 million GP appointments in March - up 6.1 per cent on the same period a year earlier with the figure a fifth (19.8%) higher than pre-pandemic when there were 24.2 million National Director for Primary Care and Community Services said: "For some patients contacting their practice using online methods can be more convenient and easier to access care for their health needs and it’s great to see practices making advances in the use of technology to support this shift for people who are confident to do so “However there’s still more to do to make it easier for patients to contact and see their local GP which includes making even better use of new technology to improve patient care.” a GP and NHS England director of healthcare inequalities said: “Improving access to general practice is an NHS priority and GP teams are delivering 30 million appointments every month – up almost a fifth since before the pandemic “Thanks to GPs and their hardworking teams more than a million appointments were delivered each working day last month up by almost 20% compared with the same period pre-pandemic with plans in place to improve access even further “Patients can also use the NHS app to order repeat prescriptions and view their test results without needing to contact their family doctor.” Percentage of appointments more than 28 days after booking NHS Black Country and West Birmingham: 3% North Somerset and South Gloucestershire: 3% NHS South East Staffordshire and Seisdon Peninsula: 3% Story SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right Rochford District Council has taken a significant step forward in shaping the future of the local economy with the refresh of its Economic Growth Strategy for 2025-2028 and invites you to participate in a consultation to help shape the future of our local economy Regeneration and Tourism Committee last month reinforces the Council’s commitment to fostering a thriving business environment The strategy focuses on town centre regeneration building a workforce for the future and promoting a green and resilient economy Aligned with the Council’s Corporate Plan 2024-2028 the strategy emphasises responsible growth vibrant town centres and nurturing local businesses while attracting inward investment The draft Economic Growth Strategy and its comprehensive action plan will be continuously refined to meet the evolving needs of Rochford’s business community and residents said: “Our vision for the Rochford District is to create a thriving economy that supports business at all stages of growth The refreshed Economic Growth Strategy aims to make the District a dynamic place to live Your participation in the consultation is vital to ensure that our strategy reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of our residents and businesses.” The consultation survey will be open from 16 April to 18 May 2025. Businesses are encouraged to provide feedback on the strategy and the associated action plan for 2025-2026 through the Council’s consultation portal: https://engagewithus.co.uk/rdc-economic-growth-strategy For more information, visit https://www.rochford.gov.uk/economic-growth-strategy-2025-2028 or email the Economic Development team on business@rochford.gov.uk To sign up for updates or to access your subscriber preferences please enter your contact information below Rochford District Council will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a day of remembrance and reflection on Thursday 8 May 2025 The day will begin at 9am with a flag raising and proclamation at the flagpole in front of Mill Hall bells will ring out from Holy Trinity Church as a symbol of remembrance a commemorative service and beacon lighting will be held outside Mill Hall at 8pm paying tribute to the day Allied forces celebrated victory in Europe in 1945 The programme will include readings by the Deputy Lieutenant as well as participation from local cadet groups The evening will conclude with the lighting of a commemorative beacon joining communities across the country in marking this momentous occasion This year’s anniversary carries particular significance marking not only 80 years since the end of the war in Europe on 8 May 1945 but also the surrender of Japanese forces on 15 August 1945 which brought the Second World War to a close globally said: “Our VE Day beacon lighting is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by so many and the peace they fought so bravely to secure we stand together in remembrance and gratitude ensuring that the legacy of the wartime generation is never forgotten and help us honour those who gave so much in the pursuit of peace Rochford District Council is offering an exciting opportunity for businesses within the District to access funding that will help them stay competitive in today’s fast-evolving market The £30,000 Rochford District Business Growth Grant scheme is aimed at helping sole traders micro and small businesses and community interest companies across the District to innovate Businesses within the Rochford District are encouraged to apply for £3,000 in funding to support the purchase of new goods or services Applications for the grant scheme will open on 31 January 2025 and close on 14 February 2025 with successful applicants receiving funding in early March 2025 Regeneration and Tourism Committee at Rochford District Council said: “We are pleased to launch the Rochford District Business Growth Grant scheme which underlines our commitment to fostering local enterprise and supporting economic growth These grants provide an opportunity for businesses to innovate scale and adapt to ever-changing market demands we aim to create a robust and resilient local economy in 2025 and beyond." This initiative is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Full details of the grant scheme and to access the application form, visit www.rochford.gov.uk/ukspf Rochford District Council has proudly celebrated this year’s most exceptional individuals at the annual Citizen of the Year Awards The prestigious event took place last Friday as part of a Civic Dinner dedicated to honouring those who have made outstanding contributions to their communities Recognising achievements across five categories the evening highlighted the selfless efforts of individuals who have gone above and beyond to support and uplift those around them said: “These awards shine a light on the incredible individuals whose dedication strengthens our communities Their selfless contributions and generosity inspire us all Each winner has not only demonstrated remarkable commitment but has also created a lasting impact that benefits countless lives Their passion and hard work reflect the very best of Rochford and their contributions will continue to inspire and strengthen our community for years to come Young Citizen of the Year: Tilly Wilkinson this year’s winner of the Young Citizen of the Year award has shown exceptional dedication to her community through her passion for sport and commitment to others and runs affordable netball sessions at Great Wakering and Thorpe Hall schools daughters and young players for just £1 per session she has created an inclusive and supportive environment where women of all ages can connect exercise and rediscover their love for fitness In addition to her schoolwork and netball commitments Tilly works tirelessly behind the scenes to organise venues and update media groups Her dedication to fostering sporting opportunities and improving well-being across the district makes her an inspirational role model and a truly deserving recipient of this award George Capon has been a driving force in supporting and inspiring young people through the Air Cadets and beyond His unwavering dedication to youth development has helped countless cadets in Rochford gain valuable skills knowledge and qualifications that set them up for success in education and life have the opportunity to thrive and achieve their full potential As an Officer Commanding of multiple Squadrons George has worked tirelessly to ensure their success overcoming challenges with resilience and commitment he has played a key role in organising events and activities that benefit the Air Cadets across Essex as well as supporting charities such as the Vulcan Restoration Trust at Southend Airport His dedication to both local and wider community initiatives make a profound and lasting impact making him a truly deserving recipient of the Charitable Support Award Community Spirit Award: Louise Berry-Wright has dedicated herself wholeheartedly to uplifting the residents of Rochford inclusive spaces that bring people together From hosting Women’s Circles - a safe space for women of all ages to share to running dementia cafés that provide much-needed respite for families She has also supported teenage girls with creative workshops helping them embrace their individuality beyond the pressures of modern society she has invested her own resources to make these initiatives flourish transforming a little-used scout hall into a vibrant community hub Her Roots community has brought people together for meaningful events from the Hockley Christmas light switch-on to local memorial gatherings Louise’s unwavering commitment and passion for the well-being of others have not only made a lasting difference in Rochford but have also drawn people from surrounding areas proving that true community spirit knows no bounds Malcolm selflessly dedicates his time every week to maintaining the gardens of his neighbours His kindness extends beyond gardening; he checks in on his neighbours Malcolm also finds time to contribute to local charity events through Great Wakering Bowls have made a lasting impact on those around him Malcolm’s unwavering commitment to helping others makes him a truly deserving recipient of this award dedicating decades of his life to charitable work and making a tangible difference in the lives of others His unwavering commitment spans across multiple causes from fostering children and supporting vulnerable families through Plan UK to funding and working with Rock Foundation Cambodia for 17 years Charley has played a vital role in fundraising for Gold Geese while also serving as the president of the Essex NTLA His dedication to men's mental health is evident in the two companies he co-founded running Men’s Mentality sessions twice a week in Rayleigh his tireless work with The Royal British Legion Hockley Changing Pathways and Lady McAdden Cancer charities highlights his boundless generosity A key figure in organising the Jamie Saitch Charity Golf Day Charley has helped raise over £60,000 for military charities securing donations and prizes with relentless passion Whether driving community members to events Charley’s selfless dedication makes him a true unsung hero and a beacon of compassion in the community Rochford District Council has been marketing two former Council properties following a decision by the Full Council in December 2024 located at 3-15 South Street and 19 South Street are listed for sale through local property agents Kemsley Property Consultants The marketing period will conclude in May 2025 Situated in Rochford's historic Town Centre conservation area both properties hold Grade II listed status ‘for sale’ boards have been placed outside the buildings This sale aligns with the Council’s aim of modernising its services while reducing its carbon footprint Council Members approved the relocation of back and front-office services from South Street to improve operational efficiency In keeping with the Council’s commitment to maintaining access to essential services for residents in the town the South Street reception has been relocated to within Rochford Library ensuring a central and convenient location for public enquiries said: “The decision to market these properties was an important step in our ongoing efforts to modernise council services while ensuring the Council retains best use of public assets.“The properties at South Street form an important part of Rochford’s historic Town Centre and we look forward to seeing them brought back into productive use in a way that benefits our community We encourage interested parties to engage with Kemsley Property Consultants during the marketing period." For further details on the sale process, interested parties are encouraged to contact Kemsley Property Consultants. Council publishes its proposed budget for 2025/26 which includes investment in services The proposals set out how the Council intends to manage the increasing cost of delivering vital services and be prepared for external financial pressures maintain and develop services over the coming year and beyond the proposal is for a balanced budget and no borrowing along with the Council Tax proposal for 2025/26 and Fees and Charges will be taken to Full Council on 18 February for agreement the proposal is to increase the Rochford District Council element of Council Tax by 2.95% for 2025/26 This would equate to a charge of a Band D property increasing by £7.66 a year to £267.66 per annum for Rochford District Council services This increase is largely in line with District councils across Essex The Council’s agreed Medium Term Financial Strategy includes a five-year investment programme that supports the whole district including further investment in the Mill Arts & Events Centre The funds allocated are aimed at bringing the building back into good repair which will form part of the overall business plan and options for the future of the building and its important role in Rayleigh This is in addition to the forecast £300,000 that will have been spent in 2024/25 Other planned investments over the next 5 years include: Leader of Rochford District Council and Chair of the Strategy Finance & Policy Committee said: “Financially where we are looking to set a balanced budget that requires no borrowing it doesn’t happen by accident - it is what we have planned and prepared for “No councillor wants to increase Council Tax but the extra £7.66 a year per household the council will receive for the Rochford District Council portion of Council Tax will ensure that we can maintain and invest in the services our residents and businesses rely on “We want residents to see their money is being spent wisely and put to good use – and our additional investments for next year are in areas we know matter to them “Whilst there is some uncertainty around what local government reorganisation will mean in the future - there is no uncertainty around our ambitions for our services and our commitment to continue to listen to residents on what they want those services to deliver which we have recently outlined in our Corporate Plan “I look forward to having hearing from councillors their views on the proposed budget next week.” Following debate on 28 January at the Strategy the proposed budget will go to Full Council on 18 February Rochford District Council Committee meetings and Full Council are available to watch live, or on catch-up, on our YouTube Channel A £50K Winter Fuel Support Fund to support pensioners in the district on a low income who aren’t eligible for Pension Credit or other available funding and are in fuel poverty has been agreed by councillors at Rochford District Council’s meeting of Full Council this week (Tuesday 17 December) Under the Rochford Winter Fuel Support Scheme Applications will be open until 31 March 2025 or until the fund is exhausted Grants will be distributed on a first come first serve basis The fund follows a motion that was unanimously supported cross-party at September’s Full Council meeting that agreed for the Council Leader to write to the Chancellor of the Exchequer calling for the policy on linking Winter Fuel Payments to Pension Credit receipt to be immediately paused and to introduce a new threshold to determine eligibility for Winter Fuel Payments It was also agreed the Council would sign the ‘Save the Winter Fuel Payment for Struggling Pensioners’ Age UK petition and carry out a comprehensive awareness campaign to maximise applications for Pension Credit An urgent review on what other financial support is available to pensioners and what more the Council could do to support pensioners who remain in fuel poverty was also agreed – the Rochford Council Winter Fuel Support Fund is a result of that review said: “We have always believed the current threshold for eligibility for Pension Credit is far too low The reality is that many pensioners with low to middle incomes are now excluded from receiving the Winter Fuel payment placing them at increased risk of fuel poverty “Our calls for the Government to change the threshold for eligibility for Winter Fuel payments have been ignored now we have come up with a scheme on how we can support pensioners in the district who up until a few months ago were expecting the Winter Fuel payment and now find themselves worrying about whether to put the heating on Our Winter Fuel Support Fund is a one-off payment of £100 to eligible pensioner households and we encourage our older residents who are struggling financially to contact us contact our Revenues and Benefits team who can advise on other help you may be entitled to.” For more information and to apply to the Rochford Winter Fuel Support Fund visit **the scheme is now closed** or call 01702 546366 Rochford District Council is pleased to announce the winners of the Rochford District Business Awards for 2025 The awards ceremony took place on Thursday 13 February at The Rayleigh Club and was hosted by radio presenter This special evening celebrated the outstanding achievements innovation and dedication of local businesses and entrepreneurs who contribute to the district’s economic growth and community spirit The Rochford District Business Awards 2025 winners are: Apprentice of the Year sponsored by Backing Essex Business  Community Impact Award sponsored by S  Customer Service Award sponsored by Ambitious Essex Employer of the Year sponsored by Essex Chambers of Commerce  Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored by The Consortium  Innovative Business of the Year sponsored by Launchpad - Oxford Innovation  Micro Business of the Year sponsored by 3 Chambers  Start-Up Business of the Year sponsored by Marlborough Highways Sustainability Award sponsored by Rochford Norse said: “A big congratulations to all our winners and nominees It was truly an inspirational evening highlighting the incredible talent within our district and we are proud to celebrate their achievements Events like these remind us of the remarkable people and enterprises that make our district such a wonderful place to live and all our category sponsors for their support Your contributions have played a vital role in making this event such a resounding success We would like to thank our local supplier sponsors including Eternity Events Essex for providing the AV and Tina Wing Business Photography providing professional photographs of our winners A link to a gallery of photographs from the 2025 Business Awards will be available soon on our website: www.rochford.gov.uk/businessawards The deadline to submit your Citizen of the Year nominations has been extended You now have until Friday 21 February 2025 to nominate someone special for the Citizen of the Year awards the Citizen of the Year Awards are a chance to recognise and celebrate the incredible contributions of individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference From offering essential support to vulnerable residents to tirelessly volunteering and fostering community spirit this is your opportunity to shine a spotlight on the local heroes who inspire us all said: “We are proud to host the Citizen of the Year Awards a chance to celebrate the incredible people who make Rochford District such a special place passion and commitment of individuals who truly embody the spirit of our community I encourage all residents to take a moment to reflect on the extraordinary people around them and submit their nominations today your nomination could make all the difference in giving someone the recognition they deserve.” We believe in nurturing the next generation of leaders and community champions The Young Citizen of the Year award is dedicated to recognising the exceptional contributions of young individuals under the age of 18 who have shown remarkable dedication to improving our community The Charitable Support category is open to citizens of all ages who have made significant contributions to charitable causes in the Rochford District we aim to acknowledge those who have made a tangible difference in the lives of others The Community Spirit category celebrates citizens of all ages who have displayed unwavering dedication to enhancing the sense of community in Rochford District or initiating projects that bring people together this award recognises those who embody the true spirit of community This new category recognises individuals of all ages who selflessly dedicate themselves to supporting others within the district It honours those who not only fulfil care duties but also go above and beyond compassion and a profound commitment to making a difference Nominations now close on Friday 21 February 2025 and will be considered by the panel of judges The awards will be presented at the Chair of Rochford’s Civic Dinner on Friday 28 March 2025 To nominate visit www.rochford.gov.uk/chairman-of-the-council to complete our online form Alternatively, please email Civic.officer@rochford.gov.uk to request a hard copy of the nomination form At this week’s meeting of Full Council (18 February) included in his presentation details of the £1.5m budget to be invested in council assets and stated his intention to see at least £500k spent on the regeneration of the Freight House if required as part of a future business case This follows last month’s update on the work that is already taking place with plans due to come back to a Committee in March - to show how the building can be re-opened for an interim use over the coming months.  The Council is committed to opening the Freight House Finance and Policy committee will consider plans on how the building can be re-opened for short term uses over the coming months.  to conduct a longer term feasibility study which will  commence next week on wider regeneration plans for the area This will include how the Council can enhance not just the Freight House building but also the surrounding green space and reservoir areas The Council is currently seeking organisations to register their interest in operating events from the Freight House in order to evidence that the meanwhile use investment being considered would enable a third party operator to open the building and deliver events to the local community Rochford District Council has been awarded £70,000 in funding from the Ministry of Housing Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) to conduct a review of its Green Belt This assessment will play a key role in shaping the Council’s Local Plan ensuring the continued protection of valuable Green Belt land while also considering areas that may align with the government’s newly defined Grey Belt The funding was awarded following the Council’s successful expression of interest (EOI) with Rochford being among a number of authorities to receive support for Green Belt assessment The review will play an essential role in informing the Council’s revised Local Development Plan (LDP) the timetable for completion of which was approved at the Planning Policy Committee meeting on 16 January 2025 Chair of Planning Policy Committee for Rochford District Council said: “We are committed to protecting our Green Belt while also ensuring that our Local Plan meets the needs of our residents This funding from the MHCLG will enable us to carry out a thorough assessment ensuring that we safeguard our most valuable green spaces while taking a balanced approach to future development We are pleased to be among the few authorities selected for this important work and we look forward to progressing with a plan that reflects both national policy and local priorities.” The Green Belt review will be undertaken as part of the Council’s wider Local Plan process with findings set to inform future planning decisions and strategies To keep updated on our Local Development Scheme, sign up to our District E-newsletters, visit our planning policy page and follow us on our social media channels The Rochford District Business Awards 2025 are proud to celebrate and support the wealth of business talent innovation and entrepreneurial spirit within the Rochford District These awards aim to recognise the remarkable achievements of our local business community over the past 12 months the judges have reviewed entries across ten categories and are happy to announce the following finalists and their respective category sponsors: Community Impact Award sponsored by S Stibbards & Sons Customer Service Award sponsored by Ambitious Essex Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored by The Consortium Innovative Business of the Year sponsored by Oxford Innovation Space's 'Launchpad' Micro Business of the Year sponsored by 3 Chambers Start-Up Business of the Year sponsored by Marlborough Highways said: "The Rochford District Business Awards have once again highlighted the incredible talent resilience and creativity within our business community It was a truly difficult task for our judges to narrow down the entries as the quality of applicants this year has been outstanding across all categories These finalists represent the best of Rochford’s entrepreneurial spirit Congratulations to everyone who has been shortlisted and thank you to all who entered I would like to say thank you to our main sponsor whose support and commitment have been instrumental in bringing this event to life We wish the best of luck to all our finalists and we look forward to celebrating their achievements at the ceremony." said: “Toomey Motor Group are delighted to renew our support for the Rochford Business Awards growth and success in the local business community we take great pride in recognising the outstanding contributions of companies that drive economic development and inspire progress across the region This event is more than an awards ceremony—it’s a tribute to the remarkable businesses shaping a brighter future for Rochford District We look forward to celebrating the incredible nominees and their achievements together!” The awards will be presented at our ceremony on the evening of Thursday 13 February 2025 at The Rayleigh Club For more information, visit https://www.rochford.gov.uk/rochford-district-business-awards-2025  Rochford District Council has approved a new Local Development Scheme (LDS) timetable for the preparation of development plan documents and other key planning documents covering the period 2025 to 2028 approved at the Planning Policy Committee meeting on 16 January 2025 reflects the Council's commitment to delivering a robust and compliant Local Plan in light of recent changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) facilitated significant progress on the new Local Plan recent updates to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) in December 2024 introduced major changes affecting housing delivery These changes rendered the previous timetable unworkable prompting the adoption of a realistic and achievable schedule that aligns with the new requirements The revised Local Development Scheme sets out the following key milestones for the emerging Local Plan: the Council will progress work on the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) ensuring that new developments contribute effectively to local services like infrastructure and schools.The timetable for the CIL adoption is as follows: said: “The updated Local Development Scheme demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that the emerging Local Plan and supporting documents align with the latest national policies while reflecting the needs of our community This revised timetable is both realistic and ambitious ensuring we can meet the challenges of housing delivery and infrastructure development and ensure that residents and local businesses get the opportunity to have their say on the proposals Thank you for your interest in the Rochford District Business Awards 2025 These Awards recognise and celebrate the achievements of our fantastic business community over the past 12 months Nominations are now closed for this years’ awards Please scroll down the page to see the list of finalists for 2025 Thank you to our many and varied businesses for taking the time to enter Rochford District Council is proud to announce the following winners and finalists for the 2025 Rochford District Business Awards with thanks to our category sponsors who sat in on their categories as guest judges Awards were handed out at our invitation only ceremony on the evening of Thursday 13 February 2025 at The Rayleigh Club in Rayleigh With additional thanks to all our local supplier sponsors; Eternity Events for providing the AV and Tina Wing Business Photography Innovative Business of the Year sponsored by Launchpad - Oxford Innovation The doors of Rochford Library opened in the New Year to a new addition yesterday as Rochford District Council’s new reception area was unveiled to the public the relocated reception is designed to improve access to services while encouraging greater community use of this vital space.  The new reception area offers the same range of facilities previously available at the South Street Reception Our receptionists are available to assist with customer enquiries during the following hours:  Monday to Thursday: 08:30 am – 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm  Friday: 08:30 am – 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm – 4:30 pm  To help visitors find their way to the new reception clear signage and informational posters have been placed at the former South Street Offices and visitors are kindly reminded that Roche Close is a private road and parking restrictions with active fine enforcement is in place.  welcoming space reflects our commitment to enhancing accessibility and our connection to the District We invite all residents to visit and take advantage of the convenient services now available in the library we’re proud to create a hub that truly serves our District."  Heritage and Culture at Essex County Council added: “The collaboration between Essex County Council and Rochford District Council highlights the strength of our shared vision to enhance local facilities Rochford Library is a central hub where community members can access a range of services conveniently.”  For further information on our new reception area, please visit our Reception Questions and Answers page. Rochford District Council’s Planning Policy Committee were due to discuss a revised timetable for the production of the emerging Local Plan on the 1 August 2024 This timetable had been revised to ensure that all the relevant evidence was available in advance of any draft being published so that members of the Council and residents in the District had all the necessary information to engage with the Plan. A revised timetable will be published in due course.  Despite the Government’s proposed changes to the planning system none of our previous work on Rochford’s Local Plan is wasted and our evidence base will be reviewed alongside any new planning policies The Council has made no decisions on the spatial distribution of new homes jobs and other facilities which the Local Plan must seek to address Drafts of the Local Plan will be approved by the Council in due course and will be subject to full meaningful and detailed engagement with local residents and businesses before being submitted to the Planning Inspector Rochford District Council has submitted a response to the government’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) consultation which was discussed at the Planning Policy Committee meeting on 19 September 2024 the response included the Council’s concerns about the definition of Grey Belt and the concern that just because land has been previously developed does not mean it is suitable for future development in terms of access to transport links To keep up to date, you can Join the Planning Policy Mailing List Volunteers plant over 3,000 trees across the Rochford District to boost local wildlife habitats enthusiastic volunteers came together for Rochford District Council’s winter tree planting sessions helping to create vibrant new woodland areas in council-managed open spaces part of the Council’s ‘Parks for Nature’ scheme and establish essential sanctuaries for local species 3,150 trees were planted across four sites: Hullbridge Recreation Ground The newly planted woodlands feature cell-grown native broadleaf varieties This planting was made possible through funding from Essex County Council’s Essex Forest Initiative which focuses on reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change The newly planted trees are protected with recyclable guards which will be removed when the trees mature in approximately five years spring mulching and a reduced mowing policy will ensure optimal growth and reduce resource competition from surrounding grass Chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee at Rochford District Council said: “Planting these trees is an important part of creating greener spaces for people and wildlife in our District Thanks to the dedicated efforts of volunteers who joined us last week and Essex County Council To be able to say we all helped plant more than 3,000 trees is quite something – especially with some of the challenging weather we had last week Paper copies of the volunteer guide are also available by calling 01702 546366 Rochford District Council has adopted a new Culture and Visitor Economy Strategy that will support creative and tourism businesses in the District This strategy is designed to move the cultural and visitor economy forward over the next 5 years Rochford District Council will be seeking to work with partners The strategy aims to promote the role culture plays in the lives of local people and to grow the visitor economy sector locally heritage and tourism activities will contribute to the District’s economy and support a range of local businesses including those in hospitality A wide group of stakeholders were consulted in the development of the strategy which was commissioned through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund A public survey that ran from August to September generated 1,100 responses about the community’s views on the future of culture meaningful market research was collected regarding two large cultural assets in the Council’s ownership The Mill Arts & Events Centre and The Freight House The Council is working on developing separate businesses cases for the future of these two important assets in the District.  the Council has established a cross-party task and finish group which will oversee the project with the next step to carry out a full feasibility study which is likely to be completed in the early months of 2025 We know that the Freight House is key to the regeneration and cultural offer of Rochford The study will look not only at the building and surrounding car parks but also at how the green spaces and reservoir around it can be further enhanced for local people and visitors alike to enjoy.  Also the Council is reviewing the cost of legislation and health and safety to re-open The Freight House for an interim period once this review is completed.” Work continues on the development of a robust and sustainable future operating model for The Mill Arts & Events Centre which will be reported to The Mill Hall Working Group by the end of March 2025 Read the full Culture and Visitor Economy Strategy Do you know somebody who works tirelessly to make a difference to our local community The annual Citizen of the Year Awards are now open for nominations and we would like to hear who you believe is making a difference in our community Rochford District Council’s Citizen of the Year Awards are the perfect opportunity to recognise and acknowledge local people for their valuable work and outstanding achievements From providing essential services to the vulnerable we want to hear about those extraordinary people that really make a difference to our community Nominations are open to individuals located within the Rochford district and will be judged by a cross-party judging panel said: "It’s time to nominate your Citizen of the Year there are many unsung heroes whose dedication and selflessness make a real difference Whether through their tireless work with local charities these individuals embody the heart of what makes Rochford District so special I encourage you all to take a moment to nominate someone who you believe truly deserves this recognition and let's celebrate their incredible contributions that make our community thrive." Young Citizen (under 18)We believe in nurturing the next generation of leaders and community champions Charitable Support (over 18)The Charitable Support category is open to citizens of all ages who have made significant contributions to charitable causes in the Rochford District Community Spirit (over 18)The Community Spirit category celebrates citizens of all ages who have displayed unwavering dedication to enhancing the sense of community in Rochford District Carer of the YearThis new category recognises individuals of all ages who selflessly dedicate themselves to supporting others within the district The nominations close on Monday 3 February 2025 and will be considered by the panel of judges To nominate please complete our online form Alternatively, please email Civic.officer@rochford.gov.uk to request a hard copy of the nomination form Rochford District Council is increasing its support for vulnerable pensioners facing rising energy costs with an additional £50 payment for those who have already received £100 from the Winter Fuel Support Fund This extra support aims to help residents cope with recent increases in gas and electricity prices With 175 households already benefiting and more applications being processed Eligible residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure they don’t miss out The Rochford Winter Fuel Support Scheme was established with £50,000 in funding to help low-income pensioners who do not qualify for Pension Credit or other financial support but are still experiencing fuel poverty The scheme offers a one-off payment of £100 per household with this latest announcement providing an additional £50 top-up said: "We know that many pensioners in our district are facing financial hardship due to rising energy costs By increasing our Winter Fuel Support payments we’re making sure that those who need help the most get it We are also committed to reviewing and strengthening future support to protect our most vulnerable residents." For more information about the Winter Fuel Support Scheme and to check if you are eligible visit: **the scheme is now closed** or call 01702 546366 Rochford District Council and Southend-on-Sea City Council officers submitted a joint expression of interest in December 2024 following the New Towns Taskforce call for evidence regarding potential opportunities of larger scale housing and economic growth The cross-border development is an area to the north of Southend and south of Rochford that is already being considered as part of the Local Plan process which could eventually provide around 10,000 homes spilt evenly between the two authorities as well as jobs and community facilities Significant investment in infrastructure would also be needed if development in this location was to go ahead This follows a similar submission by Rochford Southend and Essex County Councils for the area to be considered a new Garden Community in 2018 Proposals for growth in this area are currently being considered by both authorities as the work on the preparation of Local Plans continues Southend’s housing need has consistently been very high and this scheme would be needed to contribute to meeting that need under both the new and old methods of calculating housing requirements Any development here would not be additional to those figures but part of meeting our authorities housing need said: “Rochford now has a requirement from Central Government to build more homes a year than it ever has It is therefore incumbent on the Council to explore all options to meet this requirement to ensure the best outcome for residents and businesses in the district including through working with our colleagues in Southend to consider this cross-border growth location That is why officers proposed this potential development site to the New Towns Taskforce but it is important to be clear that no decisions have yet been made and this was just an expression of interest at this stage It does not commit the Council to proceed with a New Town in this location and if the Government decide to shortlist the bid for further investigation then a report will be brought to the appropriate council committee for review “Whatever growth options and sites we include within our Local Plan will need to bring improvements to our services including roads and schools and have a range of house sizes The draft Local Plan will be published for public engagement this year “Any development of this site would contribute to meeting the Government’s housing target and therefore if the site can do this and might be a better outcome for residents and businesses than providing housing in other areas then I believe it is important that we ensure it is fully explored.” added: “Working closely with Rochford District Council an updated expression of interest to the original 2018 submission has been submitted to Government so we can make a stronger case for infrastructure-led development.  Southend-on-Sea is suffering from a worsening housing crisis and needs new infrastructure Our expression of interest is for issues around roads education and public open space are tackled first so we can then meet our housing challenges in both Southend-on-Sea and Rochford I want to be clear that the expression of interest does not commit the council to permitting housing on this land and the two authorities retain the right to withdraw it This is about taking a proactive approach to the challenges we face.” The Government confirmed earlier this month they had received 100 proposals from every region in England Councils are expecting to hear back later this year on which proposals will potentially be considered for further investigation by the New Towns Taskforce Brentwood Borough Council and Rochford District Council are pleased to announce that a new operator for their four leisure facilities has been appointed has been awarded the 15-year contract to manage The Brentwood Centre and Hartswood Pavilion in Brentwood and Clements Hall Leisure Centre and Rayleigh Leisure Centre in Rochford Both councils agreed to work collaboratively to develop the joint contract to secure economies of scale over a larger portfolio and to attract greater interest from the operator market The new contract will commence on 1 April 2025 and between January 2025 through to March 2025 the new operator will start their mobilisation process enabling a smooth transition ready for the start of the contract in April Health and Community Committee at Brentwood Borough Council said: “This is an exciting time to be able to develop our leisure services offer beyond the walls of the leisure centres and provide activities in community settings enabling greater accessibility to more residents There is greater awareness of the health and wellbeing benefits of regular physical activity that promotes better physical and mental health and wellbeing” Wellbeing and Housing Committee at Rochford District Council added: “A key focus of this new contract is to create opportunities to access activities within our leisure facilities Our new operator will be delivering a diverse programme of activities in community settings so that our residents across the district are supported We are looking forward to working with Everyone Active and delivering quality services to our residents all across the district "We are delighted to have been awarded this significant 15-year contract to manage leisure facilities across both Brentwood and Rochford This joint partnership represents an excellent opportunity to leverage our extensive experience of managing more than 230 facilities nationwide to deliver exceptional services to these communities "Our vision extends beyond traditional leisure centre operations and we will be implementing innovative programmes and delivering diverse activities that make fitness and wellbeing accessible to all residents This aligns perfectly with both councils' ambitions to expand their leisure services beyond facility walls and into community settings."As we prepare for the April 2025 launch we are committed to ensuring a seamless transition and look forward to working closely with both Brentwood Borough Council and Rochford District Council.” Rochford District Council can update residents on the date its reception services will be relocating to Rochford Library in Roche Close The new reception area will officially open to the public marking a significant step in the Council's continued commitment to maintaining a presence in the heart of Rochford The decision to move the Council’s reception services follows approval by councillors in March 2024 to relocate their back-office provision from South Street to Launchpad in Rochford and reduce the council’s carbon footprint And as part of the Council's dedication to ensuring that residents continue to have convenient access to essential services it was decided to keep the reception within Rochford and in a central location To ensure a smooth transition, new working arrangements for the current reception at South Street have already been implemented, giving residents time to adjust before the full move to the library. A dedicated webpage has also been created to address any enquiries from the public regarding the changes Rochford District Council have collaborated with Essex County Council on this project By relocating the reception to Rochford Library the Council aims to improve the convenience and accessibility of both services and encourage greater community use of this new space said:"We are pleased to announce the relocation of Rochford District Council’s reception services to Rochford Library It’s a key step in our continued commitment to ensuring accessible services at the heart of our community This new arrangement not only brings us closer to the residents we serve but also aligns with our goals of sustainability and engagement.” said:“We look forward to welcoming our colleagues at Rochford District Council to Rochford Library This is a fantastic workspace in a central location with easy access for residents using council services.” For further updates and information on the move, please visit the Questions and Answers page on the Rochford Council website or follow us on our social media accounts Finance & Policy Committee this week (28 January) on the work of the Task & Finish Group dedicated to progressing the regeneration of the Freight House along with a site visit earlier this month the Task and Finish Group reviewed results from the broader consultation for the new Cultural and Tourism Strategy They were presented with the costs for reopening the Freight House on an interim basis whilst work commences on a longer-term vision for the site The Council is currently seeking an industry expert to conduct this feasibility study aiming to create a sustainable and actionable plan for the Freight House’s comprehensive regeneration The successful bidder will collaborate with local stakeholders to ensure the proposals align with community aspirations This piece of work will see high-level concept plans developed for the Freight House and its surrounding area including the adjacent green spaces and the reservoir seeking to create a new destination which could act as an anchor for the wider regeneration of the town centre The feasibility study and options for future enhancement of the area will be brought to the Strategy Finance & Policy Committee in early summer work is underway to establish the costs to re-open the building on an interim basis and a request to progress this work will be presented to the Strategy Leader of Rochford District Council and Chair of Strategy Finance & Policy Committee said: “We are in the process of appointing a team of experts to conduct a feasibility study ensuring any plans for the Freight House are both practical and aligned with our vision for the building and surrounding area “This feasibility study will of course include engagement with local stakeholders and the community we will present draft plans and estimated costs to a committee in early summer for consideration we will see a report in March coming to Committee proposing essential works to Freight House to allow it to open on an interim basis whilst these longer-term plans are being worked up “We understand how much the Freight House means to residents and we’re committed to making it a cornerstone of our community once again.” added: “The Freight House is a cherished local asset and our goal is to ensure its future is both vibrant and sustainable We are committed to working closely with local stakeholders to develop a vision that reflects the community’s aspirations and preserves the site’s significance to Rochford.” and investing in our cultural assets like Rayleigh Windmill Freight House and Mill Hall are all part of a budget package for not just the coming year but over the next five years as Rochford District Council set its budget at a meeting of Full Council this week (Tuesday 18 February) The budget set out how the Council intends to manage the increasing cost of delivering vital services and be prepared for external financial pressures maintain and develop council services over the coming year and beyond a balanced budget with no borrowing was agreed by councillors along with the Council Tax proposal for 2025/26 and Fees and Charges for the coming financial year the Rochford District Council element of Council Tax will increase by 2.95% for 2025/26 This equates to a charge of a Band D property increasing by £7.66 a year to £267.66 per annum for Rochford District Council services This ensures the required funding is available to cover proposals that will come forward for interim and future use of the building at the Strategy Finance & Policy Committee in the near future Also included is continued investment in the Mill Arts & Events Centre The funds allocated are aimed at bringing the building back into good repair and will form part of the overall business plan and options for the future of the building and its important role in Rayleigh Finance & Policy Committee said: “Financially where we have set a balanced budget that requires no borrowing “We want residents to see their money is being spent wisely and put to good use – and our additional investments are in areas we know matter to them I hope this budget also shows the commitment of our Administration to secure the future of the Freight House which we see as an important cultural asset in the District “We acknowledge the uncertainty around what local government reorganisation will mean for our council in the future That is why we are reallocating the £1.5m ringfenced in our capital budget for our HQ relocation to an asset and investment budget so we are ready to fund future proposals that arise from our Asset Strategy to ensure our residents have great local and sustainable facilities.” To celebrate the festive season and support local businesses Rochford District Council is announcing free parking on the three Saturdays in December leading up to Christmas at all council-owned car parks The free Saturday parking initiative aims to encourage residents and visitors to enjoy Rochford’s vibrant shopping areas and take advantage of the seasonal activities on offer This effort is designed to make holiday shopping more convenient and enjoyable while also boosting foot traffic for local retailers and eateries said: “The festive season is a special time in our district support local businesses and create a welcoming environment for everyone to shop dine and enjoy the festive spirit in the Rochford District I encourage everyone to explore the variety of local shops and markets For more details on the locations of council-owned car parks, please visit: www.rochford.gov.uk/car-parks-in-the-rochford-district Rochford District Council is progressing plans that will enable the interim reopening of the Main Hall of the Freight House in Rochford once £100,000 of essential repairs have been carried out The Freight House is a much-valued asset within the heart of the district that occupies a key position in Rochford Town Centre It is a building of significant local importance both from a local heritage position and also its prominent location adjacent to the main railway station the Council updated that it has appointed experienced architects Ash Sakula to carry out a feasibility study over the coming months The aim of the feasibility study is to consider options for the long-term future of the site to ensure it meets the needs of local communities whilst at the same time contributing to the wider regeneration of the town and ensuring long term financial viability The plans for the Freight House were discussed and agreed at this week’s meeting of the Strategy said: “I’m pleased we are a step closer to reopening the Freight House and securing its long-term future Keeping people updated on where we are and what the next steps are for the Freight House is very important to me we are committed to not just getting it open on an interim basis – but also to ensuring its longer-term sustainability and regeneration which is all being explored by the feasibility study We have ensured the budget is available to deliver these commitments.” You can keep up to date on council news and events by subscribing to our newsletters The Good Company dementia care programme will launch at the Mill Arts and Events Centre in Rayleigh early next year The Council agreed a motion at full council last month acknowledging the immense challenges faced in diagnosing and caring for those living with dementia This motion highlighted the vital role of local authorities providing adequate support and working collaboratively with partners to improve the lives of individuals affected by dementia Programmes like Good Company are a testament to Rochford Council's commitment to addressing these challenges through innovative and community-driven initiatives This expansion has been made possible through additional funding secured from the Castlepoint and Rochford Better Care Fund ensuring the continuation of this impactful initiative the Good Company project has delivered 200 hours of innovative creative activity It has supported 100 individuals living with dementia and their family carers through reminiscence theatre exploring participants’ identities and celebrating their unique histories The programme has profoundly impacted those involved Wellbeing & Housing Committee said: “Bringing the Good Company programme to Rochford is a fantastic step forward in our efforts to support those living with dementia and their family carers We recognise the huge challenges faced in diagnosing and caring for those living with dementia This initiative reflects the Council's dedication to creating inclusive opportunities that enhance quality of life we can make a real difference for families affected by dementia in our district.” Senior Creative Producer at Orchestras Live emphasised the programme’s significance: “Since the start of Good Company last year we have witnessed an extraordinary partnership between older participants and a diverse team of artists This inclusive model has celebrated creativity and lived experiences leaving a profound impact on the participants We are excited about bringing this evolving model to Rayleigh and continuing this important work.” The project has received generous support from partners including the Castlepoint and Rochford Health and Wellbeing Board Sinfonia Viva Orchestra and the Dance Network Association It is being funded by the Better Care Fund I would like to take a moment to send my heartfelt wishes to all residents of the Rochford District I feel deeply privileged to serve as the Chair of Rochford District Council It has been an incredible honour to represent our vibrant community and to meet so many residents businesses and organisations who contribute so much to making our district a wonderful place to live and work I have had the pleasure of supporting two remarkable charities: Equal People Performing Arts and Changing Pathways Their dedication to empowering individuals and making a positive impact in our community is truly inspiring It was also a joy to participate in key community events including the Christmas lights switch-on ceremonies in Rayleigh and Hockley where the festive spirit was shared by so many The Remembrance Sunday parade and services were deeply meaningful bringing our community together to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice and reflect on the freedoms they fought to protect the Civic Carol Service at Holy Trinity Church in Rayleigh brought people together in the true spirit of the season My sincere thanks go to everyone who helped make these occasions memorable from the organisers and volunteers to those who attended Let us celebrate the everyday heroes who make a difference If you’d like to invite me to attend a community event, I would be delighted to join you. Please contact the Civic Officer at civic.officer@rochford.gov.uk or visit the Chairman’s page on the Rochford District Council website for details on how to submit an invitation let us remember the acts of kindness and generosity that bind us together as a community joy and happiness to you and your loved ones and may 2025 be a year of prosperity and good health for all Warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Councillor Sarah-Jane Page Chair of Rochford District Council Rochford District Council is inviting local artists voluntary organisations and community groups to showcase their work with a unique and free exhibition opportunity at the Rayleigh Windmill the Windmill welcomes thousands of visitors each year It features a fascinating museum and a dedicated exhibition space on the second floor providing a platform for creative and community projects to gain exposure Exhibitors will be allocated a three to four-week slot and are expected to be present during opening hours: Wednesdays from 10am to 1pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 1pm to 4pm There is no charge for using the exhibition space said: “This is a great opportunity for local artists and community groups to engage with the public in a historic and much-loved venue We encourage anyone with a creative or community-based project to take advantage of this free exhibition space and share their talents with the community.” For more details on how to apply, please contact the Council’s leisure team at leisure@rochford.gov.uk or call 01702 963328.  Interested applicants must submit their expressions of interest by 10am on Friday 21 February 2025 Rochford District Council has commissioned Blue Sail to develop a Cultural and Visitor Economy strategy for the District to see how we can grow and support tourism and provide better cultural experiences for local people Blue Sail is seeking the views of local residents and organisations in the cultural and visitor economy sectors Blue Sail wants to understand how cultural and visitor experiences meet the needs of local residents and their visiting friends and relatives They are also asking questions about two important Rochford District Council-owned sites: The Mill Arts & Events Centre (Rayleigh) and The Freight House (Rochford) The survey will take approximately 10 minutes to complete All findings will be analysed and presented back to the Council anonymously.  Regeneration and Tourism Committee at Rochford District Council said: “We hope as many residents and businesses respond to this survey so that we get meaningful feedback to guide the strategy we want to hear how the community would like to see The Mill Arts & Events Centre and the Freight House being used moving forward.” The online survey can be found at www.rochford.gov.uk/ukspf Paper copies of the survey will be available at the Rochford District Council offices at South Street and at The Mill Arts & Events Centre please phone Rochford District Council on 01702 546366 This project has been funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) is on the agenda at Rochford District Council’s meeting of Full Council next week (18 March) as councillors are set to discuss the interim plan All 15 councils across Greater Essex will consider the interim plan prior to the deadline for it to be submitted to the Government on 21 March The document follow’s Greater Essex’s inclusion in the Government’s Priority Programme for Devolution The Government invited authorities to work together to produce plans for how all-purpose unitary councils could improve the delivery of essential public services across the county The interim plan being discussed next week includes an in-principle preference for five new unitary councils as the right model for Essex’s future local governance whilst retaining a sense of local place and communities Whilst the interim plan does not include the potential geographical make-up of the five unitary councils councillors will be asked to support further discussions and investigation of Rochford District Council Castle Point Borough Council and Southend-on-Sea City Council as near neighbours – becoming a larger unitary authority said: “Whilst the Government have initiated this we can’t bury our heads and hope it doesn’t happen – that is not what is best for our District To best represent our residents and get the best outcome for our District we have to be involved in the discussions and draft proposals Deputy Leader of Rochford District Council added: “If Council agrees that this interim plan is submitted on 21 March then work starts on a comprehensive investigation of all the options to present to the Government in September – as it is the Government who makes the final decision We will continue to work with other Essex Councils to represent our District and try to get the best proposal for our residents.” View the agenda and reports going to Full Council on 18 March 2025 Rochford District Council is inviting residents to share their views on proposed changes to the Council’s social housing allocations policy councillors agreed to consult on the proposed changes to the policy before any changes were made The proposed changes are not about reducing numbers on the Housing Register however high numbers mean the people near the bottom of the list may never get housed and the proposed changes will help us to manage expectations.   Rochford District Council do not own their own housing stock and are reliant on nominations from registered providers of social housing in the district so it is essential that the policy remains relevant and fit for purpose to take into account ever changing local housing pressures to ensure we can meet local housing demand and need.   With the number of properties becoming available being less than the demand for these properties we need to ensure that these properties are going to those in the most housing need The Council’s current policy is more generous than some other policies in the surrounding boroughs and districts where people who do not currently live within the district can still apply to join our Housing Register if they have a ‘family’ connection they do not always have the same opportunities and cannot always join waiting lists in other areas they still have to compete for properties here against people who do not currently live in the district.   We are also considering introducing Choice Based Lettings which provides greater opportunity for people needing homes to choose where they would like to live and gives greater transparency to where they are in the queue to help them get an understanding of how long their wait to be successful is likely to be.   Wellbeing and Housing Committee at Rochford District Council said: “We recognise that housing is one of the most pressing issues for our residents and this review is part of our commitment to ensuring our allocations policy works for those who need it most The proposed changes aim to create a fairer more transparent system that prioritises local residents and better meets the challenges of housing demand in the Rochford District I encourage all residents to take part in this consultation and share their views Your feedback is vital in helping us shape a policy that reflects the needs and priorities of our residents.” For more information and to complete the consultation, visit: www.rochford.gov.uk/RDCHousingSurvey The consultation closes on Wednesday 5 March Young athletes across Rochford are being urged to follow in the footsteps of local national and European baton-twirling champion Chantelle Halford as Everyone Active launches its Olympic-backed talent development scheme for the first time in the district which has already helped more than 6,000 aspiring athletes nationwide is launching for the first time in the Rochford district as operator Everyone Active takes over local leisure facilities The 15-year contract awarded by Brentwood Borough Council and Rochford District Council came into effect on 1 April 2025 seeing Everyone Active take over the management of Clements Hall Leisure Centre and Rayleigh Leisure Centre and continue to manage The Brentwood Centre and Hartswood Pavilion in King George's Playing Fields Sporting Champions is Everyone Active’s sports talent development scheme designed to assist the country's next generation of superstar athletes Aspiring athletes in Rochford have one month to apply Successful athletes on the scheme will benefit from free access to state-of-the-art training facilities at Everyone Active's 240 leisure facilities nationwide – including the facilities at Rayleigh Leisure Centre and Clements Hall Leisure Centre athletes will also receive mentoring support from Olympians and Paralympians A serious of in person sessions offer aspiring athletes the chance to meet with Olympians and ask questions about various topics such as nutrition Chantelle Halford – a multi-time National and European Champion in Baton Twirling – is a testament to the programme's success After overcoming a significant injury that forced her withdrawal from the World Championships she has bounced back through months of physiotherapy and is now training and competing at the highest level Her achievements last year included retaining her European Champion title and winning the Senior European Championship in the Twirl Team event alongside her team Innovation in Eindhoven Chantelle uses The Brentwood Centre four times a week for her training and visited Clements Hall Leisure Centre this morning to officially launch the scheme in Rochford Chantelle is looking forward to a busy year stating: "I am proud to announce that I will be representing England in the European Championships held in Spain this July I will also be competing in the World Championships this August I am super excited for the upcoming international competitions later this year.” Speaking about the Sporting Champions scheme which is open to both existing leisure centre members and undiscovered sporting talents Chantelle said: “I am beyond thankful to the Everyone Active Sporting Champions scheme for allowing me access to the facilities it is extremely hard to find sports halls with high ceilings appropriate for twirling The Brentwood centre is perfect for my training and I would encourage aspiring athletes to apply!” Olympic silver medallist Colin Jackson CBE serves as the scheme's ambassador leading a star-studded lineup of Olympic and Paralympic athletes said: “Today marks an exciting milestone for local athletes in Rochford Our Sporting Champions programme is about more than just facilities – it's about breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for every athlete regardless of their background or starting point Athletes like Chantelle demonstrate exactly what's possible when we provide the right support and resources we've supported thousands of athletes on their sporting journeys By investing in local talent and providing high quality training environments we're not just supporting individual athletes we're investing in the future of sport in our community." added: "It’s great that Everyone Active are bringing their Sporting Champions scheme to the district it plays a vital role in nurturing and empowering young athletes to help them achieve their sporting ambitions This scheme also reflects our commitment to supporting talent and making sports accessible to all.” Successful applicants will gain access to Everyone Active's facilities in Rochford with Clements Hall and Rayleigh Leisure Centres currently undergoing upgrades including the installation of cutting-edge fitness equipment designed to support athletes at every level of their sporting journey Applications will close on 30 April 2025. Aspiring athletes can apply via easportingchampions.com For more information, follow @easportingchamps on Instagram Not Waste” campaign and donate your unwanted items of furniture to your local reuse organisation in partnership with Rochford District Council and four local councils in Essex is launching a two-month campaign to inspire and encourage residents to pass on their unwanted furniture instead of disposing of it a comprehensive directory has been added to the Love Essex website The directory makes it quick and easy for residents to find local reuse organisations and charity shops accepting donations of large items Many organisations also offer free collections Donated items will be given a new lease of life and benefit those in need or help charities raise money to fund the essential services they deliver The campaign also shares helpful tips to maximise the chance of items being reused such as keeping the fire label on upholstered furniture Chair of the Essex Waste Partnership and Cabinet Member for Environment Waste Reduction and Recycling at Essex County Council said: "We believe that by making it easier for residents to find information about where to donate their unwanted furniture we can significantly reduce the amount of items being thrown away and support our local communities Our new directory is a valuable resource for anyone looking to make a positive impact by donating their items to those who can use them This initiative aligns with the principles outlined in the Waste Strategy for Essex 2024-2054 Waste reduction and reuse are key areas of focus to help us reach the county’s ambitious target to halve the amount of general rubbish produced by residents by 2042.” Rochford District Council’s Chair for Environment and Climate Change Committee Not Waste' campaign provides a fantastic opportunity for residents to make a meaningful contribution to our environment and community By donating unwanted furniture to local reuse organisations such as the Hopework Reuse Centre in Rayleigh I encourage everyone to visit the Love Essex website to explore this valuable resource and take part in this important initiative to benefit both people and the planet." Residents can visit www.loveessex.org/donate to find out more about the different options to donate items and to access the directory A proposed £50K Transitional Winter Support Fund to support pensioners in the district on a low income will be discussed by councillors at Rochford District Council’s meeting of Full Council on Tuesday 17 December This follows a motion that was unanimously supported cross-party at September’s Full Council meeting that agreed for the Council Leader An urgent review on what other financial support is available to pensioners and what more the Council could do to support pensioners who remain in fuel poverty was also agreed – the proposed Rochford Council Winter Fuel Support scheme is a result of that review Our proposed scheme is a one-off payment of £100 to eligible pensioner households and I hope that councillors will support this scheme that supports our older residents.” please enter your contact information below.