Help our borough to grow more sustainably
Fewer new homes might have to be built in Wokingham Borough if proposed changes to the national planning system go ahead – and we're urging residents to give feedback while the Government is still consulting.
The Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities wants people’s views on the amendments, which it put forward in December following our sustained campaigning for a fairer deal on housing.
We believe these changes could help us significantly reduce the number of homes imposed on the borough and encourage you to respond before the deadline of Thursday, 2 March.
We must calculate our housing need using a formula set by the Government, which currently requires us to take 781 new homes a year. If we take more than this, we aren't allowed to offset it by allocating fewer in future.
The Government's proposals appear to change this. We think it would let us plan for about 1,700 fewer homes in years to come. We've over-provided by this amount since the start of our current local plan in 2006.
Everything you need to know on new voter ID rules
We have created a dedicated page covering everything you need to know about voter ID.
This is a new requirement, which means registered voters will need to show suitable ID at a polling station in order to vote. This comes into effect from the local elections in May this year.
To make sure you can navigate the changes, we have created a page with all the information you need in one place. It includes resources, such as an easy-read booklet, as well as answers to frequently asked questions.
Although the vast majority of residents will have acceptable ID, such as a driving licence or passport, it is vital they remember to bring it with them on polling day. Bringing a poll card by itself will not entitle you to vote.
Anyone who does not have ID can apply for a Voter Authority Certificate for free. This can be done online or by contacting our electoral services team.
Email electoralservices@wokingham.gov.uk or call (0118) 974 6000 to find out more and to request a paper application form.
Get your tickets for Youth Politics event
We’ll shortly be hosting our first Youth Politics event at our Civic Offices in Wokingham, giving young people a chance to have more of a say on decisions which impact our community.
It's taking place on Thursday 23 February, from 4.30ppm to 6.30pm and is for secondary school children only.
Wokingham Youth MP Holly Mackinnon is on a mission to ensure younger residents have their say.
She is working with us to encourage children and young people to get more involved in local issues that affect their everyday lives.
This event will be a chance to come along and learn about politics from councillors representing different parties in the borough. They will debate issues, chosen by Wokingham Youth Council, discuss their parties’ values and answer questions.
There will also be time during the event for members of the audience to give their thoughts on what they would like to see in Wokingham Borough to improve the lives of young people.
Shape emotional wellbeing strategy for young people
Are you the parent or carer of a child or young person in the borough? Then we need your help to shape our new Emotional Wellbeing Strategy.
The survey launched last week to coincide with Children’s Mental Health Week and seeks views from parents and carers about their views on their child’s emotional wellbeing, available support and how help could be given in the future.
We want to hear from as many parents and carers as possible, so please take the survey. Share it your friends and family if they have children.
Half-term fun at Dinton Pastures
If you are looking for something active and outdoor for your child during this coming half-term, we have a couple of ideas for you.
Heart Trail (until 19 February)
The first Heart Trail created by First Days Children's Charity at Dinton Pastures Country Park runs until Sunday (19 February).
This 2.5km trail around the White Swan Lake will be filled with hearts crocheted by the Barkham Hookers.
For a suggested donation of £3, you can get a map from Dinton Nature Buggies or Dinton Adventure Golf, follow the trail to find out a secret word and fun facts about your hearts, and then receive a treat after completing the 'mission'.
All funds raised will go towards supporting children in need and their families in Berkshire.
New menu at Dinton Pastures café
The Coffee House at Dinton Pastures Country Park has recently launched a brand new menu, as it welcomed the new year.
Located next to the main carpark in the country park, the Coffee House is widely known for its fresh food and great coffee.
The new menu features a range of gourmet items, ranging from breakfast, lunch, main courses to children's favourites. Its food on the menu is cooked fresh to order using locally-sourced ingredients.
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