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 We're inviting residents from Newbury, Thatcham, Hungerford, and across the district to share their views on proposed changes to on-street parking rules.
These changes come after the Full Council meeting on 29 February, where fees and charges for 2024/25 were discussed. The proposed changes include adjustments to on-street parking fees, as well as updates to the days and hours these charges will apply.
This amendment Order is part of the statutory process to implement these changes and aims to:
- Standardise parking charges across the district.
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Generate income to support the upkeep and enforcement of parking regulations, helping to boost the local economy. This aligns with the Department of Transport guidance, which emphasises the importance of clear, legal, and well-enforced parking rules to improve compliance.
Our consultation is now open and we want to capture your thoughts on the proposed changes. To take part, please complete our survey by midnight on Friday, 13 September 2024.
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World Suicide Prevention Day |
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 On Tuesday (10 September) it's World Suicide Prevention Day. Suicide can affect every one of us. By raising awareness, reducing the stigma and encouraging action, we can change the narrative and help to reduce suicide around the world.
Locally, we're working to prevent suicide and have commissioned a Suicide First Aid training course for communities and are developing a local suicide prevention action plan with partners. You can find out more about this here.
Join us at 8pm on Tuesday in lighting a candle to show your support for suicide prevention, to remember a loved one and for the survivors of suicide.
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 Don’t forget to join us on Tuesday, 10 September at 6.00pm for our next Community Forum on 'The Planning Process in West Berkshire'. You can attend in person at Thatcham Rugby Club or online.
This session is an opportunity for you to discuss planning proposals and issues impacting our neighbourhoods with us.
Our Planning Team will provide an overview of current policies, Government guideline changes, and answer your questions. Topics include updates on planning changes, digital planning services, and environmental considerations.
Refreshments will be available on site.
You can and .
Questions submitted in advance must be submitted by midday on Friday, 6 September.
 We’ve started a new 'Innovation in SEND' blog to bring you the key developments and innovations linked to our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities services.
Make sure you’re kept up to date by signing up to our newsletters to get our news and blog posts hot off the press!
You can also find information, advice and guidance about our provision, events, services and activities for children and young people with SEND aged 0 to 25 on our Local Offer webpage.
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With over 1,500 members of staff corporately, plus additional members of staff working across our local schools and education settings, we're one of the largest employers in the area. There are lots of reasons to consider a career with us - from the wide range of services we provide to the training and benefits we offer.
Current vacancies include:
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 We've been awarding grants to small rural businesses helping them to grow whilst becoming more sustainable and boosting the local economy
Small rural businesses can apply for grants worth between £10,000 and £40,000 to help them to grow sustainably - for example by adopting new production methods or transforming derelict farm buildings into commercial spaces.
Already we've awarded grants worth £160,000 to local businesses.
Applications to the scheme remain open with the next round of funding awarded in September. More information can be read on our Rural England Prosperity Fund (REPF) Business Grant Scheme page.
Hear more from one local business, Fortune and Sons Hedgelaying, talking about how the grant benefited Tom's business on our YouTube channel.
 Our Community Learning team is working with The Rebel School to deliver a range of free business development workshops from 24 September to 2 October at the Corn Exchange in Newbury. The workshops are open to adults aged 19+ who live, work or volunteer in West Berkshire. They focus on:
- Marketing that grabs attention and makes sales
- Developing a strong online presence
- Becoming legally savvy
- Selling your idea
- Networking with like-minded people
 The essential block paving repairs along Bartholomew Street/Bridge Street/Mansion House, Newbury have been completed a week ahead of schedule and the road has been reopened for all to use.
This essential repair work involved removing the existing blocks, inspecting the sub-base, and then renewing the blocks into bays to stop the blocks separating.
Parents and pupils at the two Calcot Schools can now enjoy a safer journey with our brand-new zebra crossing on Royal Avenue!
Part of our ongoing School Streets initiative, this crossing is designed to make the walk to school safer and easier.
Let's keep everyone safe and promote healthier travel options!
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We value your views on the decisions we take. There are several areas we are currently holding consultations on, including:
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Our fostering team were busy at Thatcham Kids Fest and Reading Pride last week!
Our Kids Fest stand was buzzing with curious minds, eager to learn how fostering can make a difference in children’s lives. It was great to be at an event filled with so much energy and excitement.
The energy continued all the way to Reading Pride where we joined forces with the Newbury Pride team, Wokingham Fostering and Brighter Futures for Children. Our joint stand was a hit, especially with our lovely fostering teddies, who joined us to spread joy and raise awareness about fostering.
It was a fantastic collaboration, and together, we helped show that fostering is for everyone, regardless of background or identity.
Let the sun pay for your energy bills. Register with Solar Together before 13 September to receive a competitive, personal recommendation from this group-buying scheme. A total of 4,894 households have already registered. Last year’s scheme resulted in 214 installations, with an average discount of 37% based on a 14-panel system.
For further Information on energy initiatives in West Berkshire please visit the Green Hub on West Berkshire Council website.
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 Did you know that high blood pressure usually has no symptoms? You could be one of millions living with high blood pressure without knowing. Left untreated, high blood pressure can significantly increase your risk of a fatal heart attack, stroke, kidney disease or vascular dementia.
The only way to know if you have high blood pressure is to get a blood pressure test. To find a pharmacy that offers free blood pressure checks near you, without needing to book, click here: free blood pressure check.
Visit the online measuring your blood at home resources hub to download a range of home blood pressure monitoring resources.
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Family Hub welcomes back T Level student |
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Millie, a T Level student, has returned to our Central Family Hub in Thatcham following a Summer break.
Previously at the Hub, she supported home visits, built relationships with families in group settings, assisted with report writing, and tracked families on our system. Millie has also welcomed families at reception, playing an integral role in our team.
You can read more about Millie's experience and from our hub Manager, Sharon Pearce here.
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And finally...
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Did you know that zombie-style knives will be banned from 24 September?
If you are surrendering these weapons then make sure they are securely wrapped and sealed in a bag or a box. Do not take the weapon out of its packaging at one of the locations, unless instructed to do so by staff.
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