All About Epping

FREE COMPUTER COURSE OFFERED BY EPPING LIBRARY

2012-02-07T09:39:00.000-08:00

Essex County Council is offering local residents who wish to improve their computer skills an opportunity to take a class at Epping Library on Thursday 23 February 2012, from 2pm to 4pm.

The course will cover the use of social media, finding information online, communicating by email as well as using the computer to become more involved with the community. For more information or to book a place call 01992 573504.

St. JOHN'S SCHOOL PREPARES FOR OFSTED INSPECTION

2012-02-03T16:44:00.000-08:00

George Yerosimou, the Headteacher of St. John's School in Epping has written to all parents today informing them that the school is to be the subject of a Section 5 Ofsted Inspection on Tuesday 7th and Wednesday 8th February 2012. The last time the school was subject to an Ofsted Inspection was back in June of 2009 when the school was given an overall rating of "good". To read the previous report, please click here.

In his letter to parents, Mr. Yerosimou explained: "I am confident that we can demonstrate to OFSTED the high quality of education we provide for our students, which is achieved through the excellent support of our parents and carers, the dedication and expertise of out teaching and support staff and the commitment of our students to their studies, the school and our community."

A survey has also been sent to all parents and students by the inspections team, asking for feedback on the school.

EPPING FOREST DISTRICT YOUTH COUNCIL ELECTIONS

2012-01-31T10:12:00.000-08:00

Are you aged between 13 and 17 and want to give young people a voice in the community? If yes, the Epping Forest Youth Council (EFYC) are looking for candidates like you to stand for election to be a Youth Councillor to represent young people in the Epping Forest district.

There are 20 seats up for grabs - 2 for each of the 8 secondary schools in the district and 4 independent seats for candidates who either attend school or College outside the district, or are excluded from school, home educated or even working. Youth Councillors are elected for 2 years. They are required to attend 2 evening meetings a month at the Civic Offices in Epping. They will also have to organise a community event at their school, encouraging pupils to volunteer and to give something to the community, embracing the Big Society theme. The Youth Councillors will be trained to develop skills in public speaking and giving presentations. The schools will be invited to visit the Civic Offices to meet their local Councillors, participating in a question and answer session to boost their understanding about local democracy in the district.

Epping Forest Youth Council are an elected group of non-party political young people. Formed in 2007, it was set up to involve young people in the decisions made by Epping Forest District Council on services and issues that affect their age group. If you are interested in becoming a Youth Councillor please read a complete the EFYC candidate information booklet and return to us by Friday 24 February 2012. If you would like more information contact Diane Butler, the Young Persons’ Officer by telephone on 01992 564365.

FREE HALF TERM ACTIVITIES AT EPPING LIBRARY

2012-01-28T17:16:00.000-08:00

A range of activities for children will be available in Epping Library during school half-term. There will be stories and crafts themed around penguins and polar bears at the library in St John’s Road on February 16 from 2.30pm to 3.30pm.

The activities are suitable for children aged from four to 10 years old and are free. For more information call Epping Library on 01992 573504.

EPPING FOREST MP ELEANOR LAING AT PMQs ASKING THE PRIME MINISTER ABOUT THE UNITY OF THE NATION

2012-01-25T06:49:00.001-08:00

JOB OPPORTUNITY: CLERK TO EPPING TOWN COUNCIL

2011-09-06T14:08:00.000-07:00

Epping Town Council is currently advertising the vacancy of Town Clerk and Responsible Financial Officer.

The position requires a self-motivated person with experience of a local government (or similar) environment, and with proven financial, administrative and management skills. Preference will be given to applicants with CILCA or the Cert. H.E. (Local Policy).

Epping is a vibrant market town 16 miles to the north of London. The successful street market, allotments, cemetery, 2 public halls, a public toilet, 11 recreation grounds and engagement with nearly 70 local organisations ensure this Quality Council, and its 11 staff, is one of the most active in the West Essex area. You will manage a precept of £428,000 and expenditure of around £600,000.

Salary Scale 45 - 49 (£38,042 – £41,616), dependant on qualifications and experience. Applications are invited for the post of Town Clerk to Epping Town Council following the retirement of the current Clerk in January 2012. The closing date for applications is Monday 3rd October 2011. Please contact Bob Whittome for further information and an application pack on 01992 579444 or at rwhittome@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk

WEST ESSEX POLICE CHIEF OUTLINES POLICE SERVICE REFORMS

2011-08-30T10:22:00.000-07:00

Essex Police’s West Essex Division Commander, Chief Superintendent Simon Williams, is due to attend Epping Forest District Council’s Overview and Scrutiny Committee meeting on Tuesday 6th September at 7.30pm. The meeting will take place in the Council Chamber at the Civic Offices, High Street, Epping.

Committee Chairman Councillor Richard Bassett said: "Superintendent Williams will be giving a presentation to councillors about reforms to the police service in Essex. I would therefore encourage residents to become involved. If anyone has any queries on the future of operational policing in Essex, I would suggest they contact their local ward Councillor so that questions can be put to Superintendent Williams on their behalf. Should there be insufficient time to address all issues during the meeting, Councillors can follow up any outstanding queries at a later stage. I hope as many residents as possible will either attend or watch this meeting so that they are aware of what to expect from the police in the future during a time of having to find savings in the police service."

The presentation will set out the blueprint for Essex policing, including the Chief Constable's proposals for the future structure of policing in the county and how these will affect the Epping Forest district. Essex County Councillor Anthony Jackson will also be attending to express Essex County Council's views. Members of the public are welcome to attend the meeting. However, seating in the Council Chamber is limited.

The meeting will be webcast live and can be viewed on the council's website www.eppingforestdc.gov.uk

TALK ABOUT EPPING - THE TOWN’S OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER

2011-08-20T15:37:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are not already aware, the ‘Talk About Epping’ magazine is Epping Town Council’s official quarterly community newsletter, packed full of information from the Council as well as dozens of local organisations.

The newsletter gets delivered to every house in the town, however, for those of you who have an interest and live slightly further afield, here is a quick and easy way to keep up-to-speed with events and news.

If you wish to have updates on a more regular basis, I would recommend visiting the Everything Epping Forest website, which is run by David Jackman. It’s a fantastic site which helps so many local people stay in touch with what is happening in their communities.

HOLLY HOUSE HOSPITAL – COMMUNITY OPEN DAY

2011-05-08T15:29:00.000-07:00

Buckhurst Hill based Holly House Hospital has played host to a community open day today, giving local residents a rare opportunity to see behind the scenes of the private medical centre, including theatres, outpatient consulting rooms, diagnostic centre, day unit, decontamination department and physiotherapy unit. The event has taken place as the Hospital embarks upon a £21 million redevelopment and expansion project.

Visitors were able to take part in a variety of interactive games and activities for the whole family to enjoy, such as trying your hand at keyhole surgery, learning how to resuscitate somebody, taking on a fitness challenge, having your blood pressure and BMI checked, carrying out a laboratory test and so much more! Healthcare staff were available throughout the day to meet visitors, offer advice and answer any questions, including a former Paralympic gold medallist and physotherapist, providing tips on getting fit and preventing injuries.

One of the invited guests was Eleanor Laing MP who explained: “I was most impressed by the wide range of activities going on. It was a brilliant idea to involve local people in the work of the hospital and to use the occasion to educate us about many aspects of healthcare. I was pleased to have the opportunity to have my BMI checked, and relieved that it is okay! It was also good that people were learning how to give immediate first aid in the event of a heart attack – and children were learning to wash their hands properly – all very useful information.” Further information about a career in healthcare or to ask about any job vacancies or work experience opportunities are available from Holly House on 020 8936 1214 or e-mail at info@hollyhouse-hospital.co.uk

PICTURE CAPTION: Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing pictured with hospital director Jackie Row, deputy director Matthew Hayday & Holly the Hippo.

CHANGE OF COUNCIL LEADERSHIP AT DISTRICT’S CIVIL OFFICES

2011-05-07T15:08:00.000-07:00

Immediately following the district council elections last night, the controlling Conservative Group met to elect / re-elect their leadership team for a period of 1 municipal year. This meeting takes place in private and only elected Conservative Councillors on Epping Forest District Council are entitled to vote.

Sitting Leader of Council, Cllr. Di Collins, was proposed and seconded to remain as Leader and the post was contended by Chigwell Village Cllr. Lesley Wagland, the sitting Legal and Estates portfolio holder. Following a vote, Cllr. Mrs. Wagland won the contest with 20 votes to Cllr. Mrs Collins’s 16. Sitting Deputy Leader and Epping Councillor Chris Whitbread, who was proposed to remain in the post withdrew his candidacy following Cllr. Mrs. Collins’s defeat. Theydon Bois Councillor, John Philip, was proposed and elected to the post of Deputy Leader.

Di Collins has worked tirelessly to bring about improvements in Epping Forest and the legacy she will leave behind from her years as Leader will be the fact she has managed to win the battle to protect the district from mass development: housing, Gypsy and traveller pitches, North Weald airfield to name but a few. She has also fought the Government tooth and nail on the huge number of directives which have been issued by Whitehall and the Government Office for the East of England (GoEAST). Di has ensured that the Council is well capitalised and that it is providing the best possible value for money for local residents. It was always Di’s intention to step down as Leader and, indeed as a Councillor I believe, next year, so this opportunity will allow her a well-earned break.

As the new Leader, Lesley brings with her an incredible wealth of knowledge of working with central government departments to get results. She has significant experience in planning law which will prove invaluable to the district council and the many challenges they face from having such wonderful green belt land and the ancient forest which is forever under threat of development. She has a very analytical mind and an attention to detail that will put her in good stead for the mounds of paperwork which will shortly flow her way. I think she will make an excellent Leader and I wish her the very best of luck.

EPPING FOREST VOTES OVERWHELMINGLY "NO" TO AV

2011-05-06T15:26:00.000-07:00

Residents in Epping Forest have joined the rest of the UK in voting overwhelmingly to reject changing the way MPs are elected to the House of Commons.

Nationally, 19.1m people voted in the referendum (41%), where in Epping Forest 36,773 (39%) of a possible 95,778 turned out to vote and the result locally was 77% (28,240) voted “No” and 23% (8,533) voted “Yes”. Voters in Epping Forest voted more strongly than the national results, which showed 32% voting “Yes” and 68% voting “No”.

The result was seen as a massive blow to the Liberal Democrat Party nationally. Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of the Lib Dems explained: “I wish I could say this was a photo finish but it isn’t; the result is very clear. I'm a passionate supporter of political reform but when the answer is as clear as this, you have got to accept it."

Epping Forest MP, Eleanor Laing, has welcomed the overwhelming “No” vote in the Alternative Vote referendum in Epping Forest. Mrs Laing said: "I'm particular pleased that the result in Epping Forest has been so overwhelming. We had a very respectable turnout in Epping Forest. I am not surprised at this because I know that large numbers of people do care about preserving our effective democratic system. I have campaigned and worked in Parliament against AV not just for the last few months but for many years so I am delighted that the people have spoken and that and the issue of changing our voting system is now dead for 20 years."

EPPING FOREST DISTRICT COUNCIL - TOWN ELECTION RESULTS

2011-05-05T15:40:00.000-07:00

18 seats were up for election across the Epping Forest district on Thursday 5th May this year. In the two Epping seats, the following results were returned:

EPPING HEMNALL WARD
Ken Avey – Conservative – 951 votes (42% of the vote) *ELECTED*
Simon Hughes – Lib Dem – 821 votes (36% of the vote)
Simon Bullough – Labour – 231 votes (10% of the vote)
Andrew Smith – UKIP – 185 votes (8% of the vote)
Victoria Meier – Green – 83 votes (4% of the vote)

EPPING LINDSEY & THORNWOOD COMMON WARD
Sarah Packford – Conservative – 1047 votes (49% of the vote) *ELECTED*
Steven Harding – Labour – 430 votes (20% of the vote)
Lynn Highes – Liberal Democrat – 366 votes (17% of the vote)
Michael McGough – UKIP – 190 votes (9% of the vote)
John Hart – Green – 99 votes (5% of the vote)

To read the full results of the district’s elections, please click here.

I SHALL BE VOTING NO TO THE ALTERNATIVE VOTING SYSTEM

2011-05-03T15:01:00.000-07:00

Although I have been unable to have been as visible on the campaign trail as I would like this year, many people have approached me to ask about the forthcoming "Alternative Vote" or "AV" Referendum which is due to take place on the same day as the local elections this year, on Thursday 5th May. It's very easy for me to respond with: "I shall be voting no to the introduction of an AV voting system", but explaining the reasons why are somewhat more complicated.

In essence, I wholeheartedly believe in a system which gives each and every person in the country one vote. In my opinion, that is clear, fair and provides the electorate with a simple result which they can trust. Under AV, the electorate have to rank candidates in order of preference and anyone getting more than 50% in the first round of counting is elected. If that doesn't happen, then candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated and the second choices listed on those ballot papers are allocated to the remaining candidates. If no candidate at the second stage has a majority of votes, the next lowest candidate is eliminated and their votes are redistributed. The process continues until a winner is declared.

So what does this process mean in practice? It means that you end up with a Parliament full of candidates who are second or third or forth on the list people actually want to elect. That is so fundamentally wrong in my opinion. Worst still, it means the end to any form of a decisive government with a clear publicly endorsed mandate. At the last election, the Conservative Party and the Liberal Democrats views were almost totally opposed, yet deals were done in a closed room by a handful of politicians to form a coalition agreement and a mandate for the government. That is not good for either parties, it's not good for democracy and it's certainly not good for the country!

It's all very well and good criticising the proposals, but what do I think could improve the current system. Well, I believe in a much more open way of selecting candidates, much like they do in the US, via open primaries. This process allows every member of the public, not just paying members of a political party, to engage in selecting parliamentary candidates. Public meetings, Q&A sessions, proper campaigns with each candidate on a level playing field. This is really democratic, open and transparent. One person and one vote. The Conservative Party used open primaries in many constituencies to select candidates before the last general election with great engagement and success.

It's very easy to think any change must be good, but the decision which you are empowered to influence on Thursday may have a profound and lasting effect on our country.
Please think carefully before casting your vote!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-12467538
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAWmKgIOqv8&feature=player_embedded

HOW I WILL BE VOTING ON 5th MAY AND WHY

2011-04-26T03:52:00.001-07:00

GET INVOLVED IN EPPING'S FAMILY FUN RUN - 10th JULY

2011-04-12T18:02:00.000-07:00

This is certainly not the first time I have used this blog to support the fantastic work of the Rhys Daniels Trust; a charity which has very deep roots in our town. Once again, the Trust will host to an annual 5 mile family fun run, which will begin at Epping Sports Centre in Hemnall Street at 11am on Sunday 10th July, before following a well trodden route through the beautiful Epping Forest.

Last year, over 100 runners of all ages and all abilities took part in the run. Participants walked, jogged and ran, at their own pace. To enter, the charity has a £10 advance entry fee or a £15 entry fee on the day. All money raised with go towards the 'Home-from-Home' appeal. The Trust are not only looking for entrants for the race, but they are also looking for volunteers who are willing to act as marshals on the day. To contact the Trust, please click here. To add this event on Facebook, please click here. I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible on 10th July.

WHY I BELIEVE TODAY IS A GOOD DAY FOR POLITICS...!!

2011-04-11T16:57:00.000-07:00

Well, the answer for me is actually two-fold. My day begun by hearing that the BNP in Epping Forest are unable to find a single candidate to stand for election this year. It was just 4 years ago that the BNP had 7 District Councillors and fielding candidates in Epping, Waltham Abbey, Theydon Bois and Loughton. Now their support structure has come tumbling down around them and not a moment too soon in my opinion. For me, the BNPs "stronghold" in Epping Forest was absolute nonsense. The old socialist vote, coupled with apathetic voters who were frustrated with the government's inability to get a grasp on the country's immigration and asylum issues created a protest vote which very dangerously gave a racist party a form of credibility and a public platform. As a Councillor, I always wanted the residents who had voted for these BNP Councillors to come to Council meetings and witness first-hand how utterly atrocious they were at making any valid points at all on behalf of local residents. For me, the whole point of being a local Councillor is to try and make a difference and help local people with the issues they face. It was very clear the BNP Councillors had no such interest! I will never forget the BNP Group Leader, Pat Richardson denounced attacking a local Muslim's home by suggesting, "Firebombing is not a British method. A brick through the window is a British method, but firebombing is not a way of showing displeasure." Sometimes you actually don't need a picture to say a thousand words. Let's sincerely hope this is the end of the BNP in our community for good.

The second piece of news I enjoyed today was listening to the Prime Minister, David Cameron talk about the need for Council's to back-off and allow groups of residents to host street parties in celebration of the Royal Wedding should they wish to do so. He actually said: "These pen pushers and busybodies are completely wrong. They have no right to stop you from having a party. Let me put it like this: I am the Prime Minister and I am telling you if you want to have a street party, you go ahead and have one. To those councils that are asking small groups of neighbours for licences, insurance and other bureaucracy my message is clear: Don't interfere, don't get in the way and don't make problems where there are none. Let people get on and have fun. And my message to everyone who wants to have a street party is: I'm having one and I want you to go ahead and have one too. The truth is that this is a great chance for communities to come together and celebrate." That one speech is actually 100% David Cameron. That hasn't been penned by a staff of Prime Ministerial writers, that is David speaking from his heart and standing up for what he truly believes to be right and knowing that he hasn't been swallowed up by the system gives me hope that other great things can still come from the government.

His words actually have an enormous effect nationwide. Day in, day out, ideas for brilliant community events have to be shelved because of the legislative requirements associated with them. Health and safety laws really have caused this country more trouble than they were worth, in my opinion. In Epping, to erect our Christmas Lights in the High Street requires more documentation that most residents would believe. Something so simple, which is carried out by generous volunteers has become so onerous, costly and so tainted. Something which was so wonderful to be part of has really lost it's sparkle. If we can stand up with the support of the Prime Minister behind us, perhaps we can say "enough is enough". Who knows what we are capable of in the future. Perhaps some of that Great British spirit may well reappear!

SAD LOSS OF A TRUE FRIEND OF OUR TOWN - TED ELLIS

2011-03-04T15:09:00.000-08:00

It was, with great sadness I received the news that long-standing Epping resident, Ted Ellis had died this week aged 82. Ted and his wonderful wife Mavis had lived in Egg Hall for over 40 years, relocating to Southampton only last year to be nearer to their children and grandchildren. Their departure left an enormous void in the exemplary way Epping’s voluntary community has operated for so long. It’s very difficult to talk about Ted without mentioning Mavis – as a couple, they were inseparable. Wherever one took the lead, the other was right behind them, which is precisely why in 2009 I had the honour of presenting them with a joint ‘Townsperson of the Year’ award, for services to the community.

Ted and Mavis had held some form of position in just about every organisation, charity and voluntary group Epping has seen! If it wasn’t the Cine and Video Club, it was the Epping Society, or the Cancer Research UK organisation, or organising forest walks, or planting new trees in the High Street or protecting the town’s historic character…the list goes on.

Despite the fact that both Ted and Mavis were in their 80s, they would regularly volunteer to deliver information leaflets or newsletters for local organisations or the Town Council, walking miles across the town. Every year, they would be the first to sign-up to put-up and take down the Christmas tree lights. For years the spent hours decorating carnival floats for the fireworks procession. Ted was a genuine gentleman, who had respect and kindness for everyone he came across. He was encouraging and generous and a shining example of what a “good Samaritan” should be.

A ONE-STOP-SHOP FOR VISITORS TO ESSEX

2010-09-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

The Leader of Essex County Council, Cllr. Peter Martin, has reminded me today of the ‘Visit Essex’ website, which is a fantastic resource for visitors and those wishing to explore our county more thoroughly.

The UK’s latest tourism figures show a 5% increase in visits to UK attractions so I hope this website continues to sell ‘Essex’ and the many things we have to offer here. Cllr. Martin explained: “Our tourism team works hard to keep this up to date with all sorts of things to do in Essex to make the most of the remaining summertime…if we get any more sunshine!”

ESSEX PRIDE 2010 – Sunday 5th September 2010

2010-08-31T22:22:00.001-07:00

Essex Pride is an annual event which showcases diversity, encourages acceptance and promotes equality, respect and community engagement. This year it takes place on Sunday 5^th September at Central Park in Chelmsford from 12 noon to 11pm and Epping Forest District Council are sponsoring the event. The Council will have a marquee in the community area between 12 noon and 5pm and Community Play Workers funded by EFDC Community Development will be providing face painting for children. In addition, a consultation exercise by council staff will be undertaken.

The aim is to promote Epping Forest District Council as a progressive service provider and employer seeking to provide excellent services. A range of information about Equality at EFDC will be made available and promotional gifts will be distributed.

Further information can be obtained from Barbara Copson by telphone on 01992 564042 or by emailing equality@eppingforestdc.gov.uk

SHOULD EPPING FOREST BE GOVERNED BY A MAYOR?

2010-08-29T14:48:00.000-07:00

Epping Forest District Council has launched a public consultation to gather views on how the executive governance of the Council should be structured in the future posing the question: ‘Should EFDC be run by a Leader of a Mayor’.

Under the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007 all Councils with a Leader and Cabinet have to consult on executive arrangements. Although the new Coalition Government has said it intends to repeal this law at some point (letter here from Rt. Hon. Grant Shapps MP), Councils still need to comply with the current Act and carry out this consultation.

Ian Willett, Assistant to the Chief Executive at Epping Forest District Council, said: "The main difference in the options is how the head of the Council is elected. Under the current system of Leader and Cabinet, the Leader is appointed by Councillors. A Mayor would be directly elected by residents of the district. Councillors are able to remove the Leader from Office whereas a Mayor could only be removed by residents at elections every four years, unless they resign or become disqualified."

The options are:
Option 1 - Leader and Cabinet: The leader is elected by the District Councillors. They serve up to four years unless they cease to be a Councillor or are removed as leader by a resolution of the Council. The Leader appoints up to nine Councillors to the Cabinet. He or she decides which areas of responsibility (portfolios) each member of the Cabinet will hold. The Leader can sack members of the Cabinet or change their portfolios at any time. The Leader can delegate some or all of their powers to the Cabinet, Committees, individual Councillors or Council Officers.

Option 2 - Elected Mayor and Cabinet: Residents vote to decide who should be elected as Mayor to run the Council. The Mayor is elected for four years unless they resign or become disqualified. Candidates do not need to be Councillors but if a serving District Councillor is elected as Mayor their seat on the Council automatically becomes vacant. The Mayor holds a range of powers (except for those reserved to the Council by its constitution). She or he can appoint between two and nine Councillors to a Cabinet and decides what, if any, executive powers they will exercise. The Mayor can sack any member of the Cabinet at any time and appoint a replacement. The Mayor appoints one member of the Cabinet as Deputy Mayor. That person exercise the powers of the Mayor in his or her absence or if he or she no longer holds Office. The Mayor drafts the Council budget which can only be overturned by a two thirds majority of the Council.

The online consultation is a quick and easy way for you to tell EFDC your views. Paper questionnaires are also available as they want to encourage as many residents as possible to take part. If you live or work in the Epping Forest district, you can complete the consultation online here or alternatively, click here to download a paper copy of the response form.

BEST EVER GCSE RESULTS FOR St. JOHN’S SCHOOL

2010-08-24T11:38:00.000-07:00

George Yerosimou, Headteacher of St. John’s School in Epping has been pleased to announce this year’s provisional headline GCSE results, subject to any paper remarks or appeals, which have shown 59% of Year 11 students achieving 5 or more A*-C GCSE grades. A dramatic improvement on 2009’s 47% result. Students achieving 5 or more A*-C GCSE grades including English and Maths is 46%, again which is a dramatic improvement on 2009’s 33% result and also exceeds the Local Authorities target of 43%.

Mr. Yerosimou explained: “I am very pleased to report that our students performed really well in their GCSE examinations and the school achieved its highest ever results this year. This represents a significant achievement and improvement on last year. Our students deserve great credit for their achievements and the staff, who worked tirelessly right up to the exams themselves, also merit our appreciation.”

PLANNING APPLICATIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

2010-08-19T14:46:00.000-07:00

The following planning applications will be considered by Epping Town Council's Planning and General Purposes Committee on Tuesday 24th August 2010. If you wish to express your view to the committee on any of the application below, you can either email info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or attend the meeting in person at Epping Hall, St. John's Road, Epping, CM16 5JU.

CLD/EPF/1330/10 - Mr. A. Warner, 9 Amesbury Road, Epping - Certificate of lawful development for a proposed rear dormer window in a loft conversion.
EPF/1292/10 - Mr. T. Pryor, 72e The Plain, Epping - Loft conversion, including raising the roof.
CLD/EPF/1454/10 - Mr. D. Smith, 37 Bury Road, Epping - Certificate of lawful development for a proposed single storey side extension.
EPF/1482/10 (Revised Application) - Mr. R. Hill, 99 Theydon Grove, Epping - Proposed single storey rear addition and conversion of garage to utility and store areas.
LB/EPF/1388/10 (Revised Application) - Mr. S. J. Dale, Non Conformist Chapel Meeting Room, Queens Alley, 86 Hemnall Street, Epping - Change of use of former chapel to single dwelling including repairs and alterations.
EPF/1394/10 - Mrs. H. Andrews, Scaddings Barn, Fiddlers Hamlet, Epping - The extension of an existing 18m x 35m menege to 20m x 60m and the replacement of 75m2 stable block with 77.042 stable complex.
EPF/1520/10 - Mrs. J. Wells, 47 Station Road, Epping - Single storey rear extension.
EPF/1537/10 - Mr. M. Surman, Ploughcroft Cottage, 13 Bridge Hill, Epping - Proposed vehicle crossover.
EPF/1554/10 (Revised Application) - Mr. G. Knight, 12 Ravensmere, Epping - Single and two storey rear and front extension. Single storey side extension, rear balcony, revised roof with addition of 1 front and 2 rear dormer windows and alterations to elevations, including garage alterations.

HELP TO CLEAN UP OUR COMMUNITY'S HIGHWAYS

2010-07-01T01:34:00.000-07:00

Following a recent meeting of the Epping Forest Highways Panel on 22nd June, Essex County Council’s Highways Department are continuing to pursue opportunities for delivery under the ‘Highways Rangers’ service. As part of this project, Epping Town Council (alongside other Council’s in the district) have been requested to identify suitable works which may be carried out to improve areas which the highways department are directly responsible. The issued raised by all of the local councils will be prioritised and a draft works programme will be created. Of course, not every suggestion will be carried out in this round of work, but you have to be in it to win it as they say!

The sort of work that can be carried out by Highways Rangers includes:
* Cleaning and minor repairs to non-electrical road signs
* Cleaning and minor repairs to street furniture
* Reinstatement of posts and bollards (minimal excavation)
* Trimming of vegetation and removal of arisings
* Adhoc grass cutting and strimming
* Localised cleaning and minor excavation of roadside grips
* Removal of graffiti from, or painting of, ‘municipal’ street furniture such as litter bins, street nameplates and seats, etc.
* Removal of weeds or vegetation from pavements
* Scavenging and removal of deposits and small fly tips from highway land
* Removal of illegal signs and fly posting

Please let me know any ideas you have by Friday 9th July to allaboutepping@googlemail.com Please note that the Range will not deal with issues involving private property.

EPPING FOREST WILL BE CELEBRATING ARMED FORCED DAY

2010-06-21T14:15:00.000-07:00

Epping Forest District Council will proudly show its support for our Armed Forces by flying the Armed Forces Day Flag throughout next week.

At 10.15am on Monday 21st June, the Chairman of Council, Councillor Anne Grigg, will meet with Council staff and local dignitaries outside the Civic Offices for a short service which will be followed by the raising of the flag at 10:30am. The Armed Forces Day flag will fly alongside the Union Jack flag outside the Council offices until Monday 28 June 2010.

As part of this event the Chairman of Council will be supporting the 'Help for Heroes' fund. To help raise funds for this very worthy charity, members of staff will be passing through the offices with a variety of items for purchase and to collect donations.

Armed Forces Day is on Saturday 26th June 2010. This annual celebration gives the nation the opportunity to show our support for the remarkable men and women who make up our Armed Forces community, from current serving troops to service families, veterans and cadets. For more information about this event, please click here or to view a video of last year's event, please click here.

NEW St. JOHN’S SCHOOL IS NOT “POSTPONED INDEFINITELY

2010-06-18T14:49:00.000-07:00

On 13th May 2010, the Epping Forest Guardian published an article stating that Essex County Council had postponed building the new St. John’s School “indefinitely”, which is absolute nonsense.

As a Governor of St. John’s School, I have worked closely with the Cabinet Member for Education at Essex County Council, Cllr. Stephen Castle, on the project to rebuild a brand new, state-of-the-art secondary school for Epping. At this time, there is just over a £4m funding gap in the project, which would have to be paid out by the County Council’s Capital Expenditure Budget. However, given the recent change of Government and the uncertainty about public spending cuts, the County are not yet willing to commit their capital to large-scale projects until they know how much money they will have to serve the people of Essex in the year ahead. A entirely sensible stance in my opinion. This is simply a funding issue - Essex County Council are still completely committed to building a new secondary school in Epping and their officers, contractors and projects managers will continue to work closely with the school to ensure that as soon as the time in financially viable, the project kicks-off.

In a statement, Cllr. Castle explained: “Essex County Council will continue to work with the Diocese of Chelmsford and the governing body of the school to confirm the redevelopment programme for St Johns School. The costs were due to be met through selling an area of the school site owned mainly by the school’s trustees. Following the recession and its impact on the housing market, it is estimated that the proceeds of a sale would no longer meet the full costs of a new school premises, and so additional funding source(s) will need to be identified before the project moves forward. The construction costs have not risen above initial estimates. We will continue to work with the governing body to move this project forward.”

INVITATION TO OPEN DAY AT NEW EPPING PRIMARY SCHOOL

2010-06-16T13:57:00.000-07:00

The Headteacher, Governors and Staff of Epping Primary School are inviting members of public to come and take a look at the brand new, state-of-the-art building and facilities for themselves on Thursday 1st July from 5pm to 7pm.

Acting Heateacher, Lee Regan explains: “Everyone – family, friends, neighbours are all welcome to come and have a look round our lovely school and to see the work the pupils have on display.”

The new school can be found in Coronation Hill, Epping, CM16 5DU. To contact the school, please call 01992 572408.

END OF THE ROAD FOR GYPSY SITES IN EPPING?

2010-06-01T14:15:00.000-07:00

Today, it is with pleasure I wholeheartedly applaud Epping Forest’s neighbouring MP, the Rt. Hon. Eric Pickles, our newly appointed Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, who has sent a very clear message out to troublemaking Gypsies and Travellers that: “The good times are over.”

After years of setting up illegal campsites by exploiting legal loopholes, the Gypsy and traveller community have been told they have reached the end of the road – and that includes “Bank Holiday land-grabs”. Tough new legislation will create a criminal offence of intentional trespass. Travellers who refuse to move could be arrested by police or forcibly evicted. Travellers will be labelled “trespassers” if they set up home on other people’s land. Those who actually buy plots of land, often in Green Belt country, then begin building work before applying for retrospective planning permission will find that loophole closed.

So many times in the past, we have seen travellers move on to sites late on Fridays when councils close for a Bank Holiday weekend. They started building the next day, then apply for retrospective planning permission. If they failed to secure it, they often claimed their human rights as travellers were being infringed.

I have spent a great deal of time speaking with Eric on these issues over the past couple of years and he promised that should a Conservative Government be elected, they would deliver – and they have! He has explained today that: “The last government’s policies have undermined community relations and increased tensions. We will work to tackle the legitimate sense of injustice.”

In a letter to local council’s Eric explained: “I am writing to you today to highlight our commitment in the coalition agreements where we very clearly set out our intention to rapidly abolish Regional Strategies and return decision making powers on housing and planning to local councils. Consequently, decisions on housing supply (including the provision of travellers sites) will rest with Local Planning Authorities without the framework of regional numbers and plans.”

Epping Forest District Council Leader, Cllr. Mrs. Di Collins responded saying: "This is great news. It means the end for the deeply unpopular Government Directive that effectively forced the Council and our residents into one of the most prolonged, expensive and bureaucratic consultations our residents have ever had to endure. It was disliked by everyone including our local Gypsy and Travelling community and it will be a great relief for everyone to know we will now see the back of it. I applaud Eric Pickles for his swift action."

Under existing legislation, Epping Forest District Council is required to find 34 Gypsy and Traveller pitches by 2011 through a formal consultation process. Thankfully, it is now almost certain that these plans will be scrapped. This is a great day for the many thousands of local people who have campaigned so hard for fairness in our community. I congratulate you all.

EPPING FOREST DISTRICT LICENSING REVIEW

2010-05-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

Epping Forest District Council have launched a public consultation, asking local residents for their thoughts on their existing licensing policies, which they are required by law to review every three years. The Council’s current policy can be found here.

The Licensing Act 2003 became law on 24th November 2005 and introduced a single license scheme for all licensed premises which supply alcohol, provide regulated entertainment and provide late-night refreshments. The objectives are to prevent crime, disorder and nuisance and to protect public safety and children from harm.

Given that many local residents have spoken to me recently about licensing issues, especially those who asked how Club One9Five was able to regain its license after it had been closed simply by a new body applying for the license, this may be a good opportunity for people to express their views. The deadline for comments is 31 July 2010. You can send your comments by post to The Licensing Section, Civic Offices, High Street, Epping, Essex CM16 4BZ or by email here.

COLLEGE CLASSED: “SATISFACTORY & IMPROVING”

2010-05-10T13:15:00.000-07:00

Epping Forest College in Loughton has been reclassified in a recently published OFSTED report, which grades the college as “satisfactory” from its former “inadequate” classification.

In the report, OFTSED Inspector, Lindsay Hebditch states: “The college has recovered well since its previous inspection when overall effectiveness was judged inadequate. The majority of its provision is now satisfactory, and improving. Staff morale is high and the majority of learners work hard and are happy.”

The report singles out Jeannie Wright, the college’s interim principal, and the new senior management at the college for special praise in turning round poor results. Ms. Wright explained: “Staff have a great deal to be proud of. They have worked extremely hard since the last inspection to drive through significant improvements. We are already working on the inspectors’ recommendations of what we need to do to secure further improvement. Our staff are committed to further progress.”

The college has an Open Event on Saturday, June 26, from 10am to 2pm and is taking applications until September 2010 for courses where places are still available. For further information call 020 8502 8778.

OLIVE DUNSEATH SELECTED EPPING TOWN MAYOR

2010-05-09T13:54:00.000-07:00

Sitting Town Councillor, Miss Olive Dunseath has been elected as the new Mayor of Epping with Councillor Mrs. Mari-Louise Whitbread, the wife of District Councillor and Cabinet Portfolio Holder Chris Whitbread being elected Deputy Town Mayor.

Miss. Dunseith (pictured with Janet Hedges and I) has sat on the Town Council for 11 years and has fought hard to ensure Epping retains it’s traditional character and appearance. She described herself as “a back room worker” who finds the “thrust to the forefront as a figurehead somewhat daunting”, but explained: “I want to help improve the look of the High Street and focus on the things which the local populace are concerned with.” Cllr. Miss Dunseath will serve in this role for a period of 12 months.

DISTRICT COUNCIL ELECTION RESULTS 2010

2010-05-07T13:05:00.000-07:00

The Returning Officer for Epping Forest has declared the following results of Epping’s District Council elections held on Thursday 6th May 2010:

EPPING LINDSEY &
THORNWOOD COMMON WARD
Will Breare-Hall - Conservative - 1,692 (49%)
Lorraine Collier - Lib Dem - 1,264 (37%)
Simon David Bullough - Labour - 341 (10)
Barry George Johns - Green - 133 (4%)
Total Turnout - 71%

EPPING HEMNALL WARD
Janet Hilda Whitehouse - Lib Dem - 1,632 (47%)
Kenneth Avey - Conservative - 1,348 (38%)
Michael Finan - Labour - 234 (7%)
Andrew George Smith - UKIP - 232 (7%)
Jam Berecutt - Green - 62 (2%)
Total Turnout - 71%

You may also be interested to note that Liberal Democrat parliamentary candidate for Epping Forest, Ann Haigh, who was also standing for re-election for the Buckhurst Hill West ward on Epping Forest District Council lost her seat to Conservative candidate Sylvia Watson, pushing the Lib Dems out of the role of ‘Official Opposition’ being replaced by the LRA. The BNP also lost all of the seats they were contesting in Loughton, leaving them with just one Councillor in Pat Richardson who spoke about the party’s losses suggested this was “down to poor schooling.”

The new make-up of the Council’s 58 seats are as follows: Conservatives: 36, Loughton Residents Association: 11, Liberal Democrats: 7, Independents: 2, Labour: 1.

EPPING FOREST ELECTION RESULTS 2010

2010-05-06T19:08:00.000-07:00

The results for the UK Parliamentary election for the Epping Forest Constituency have been declared by the Returning Officer, Ian Willet, at 3.35am on Friday 7th May 2010 and are as follows:

Katie Elizabeth CURTIS - The Labour Party - 6,641 votes.
Ann Mary HAIGH - Liberal Democrat - 10,017 votes.
Eleanor Fulton LAING - The Conservative Party Candidate - 25,148 votes.
Simon Benjamin PEPPER - The Green Party - 659 votes.
Pat RICHARDSON - British National Party - 1,982 votes.
Kim SAWYER - English Democrats “Putting England First!” - 285 votes.
Andrew George SMITH - UK Independence Party (UKIP) - 1,852 votes.

The turnout was 66.95% compared to the 2005 turnout of 62.88%. Therefore, Eleanor Fulton Laing is re-elected Member of Parliament for Epping Forest with a significantly increased majority.

WHAT WILL THE CONSERVATIVES DO ABOUT GYPSIES AND TRAVELLERS IN EPPING FOREST?

2010-05-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

Eleanor Laing has issued a statement outlining what David Cameron’s Conservative Government would do about Gypsies in Epping Forest, in which she highlights her commitment to giving power back to local people. As the Conservative Party policy paper states: "Conservatives believe in social responsibility. Different people from different communities should be free to lead their lives in different ways. But this freedom must come with a responsibility to the wider community. The vast majority of traveller accept this, but a very small minority do not." Conservatives will act to ensure that this becomes a reality:

Against unauthorised sites: "Where councils have made appropriate provision for authorised sites in their area, which reflect local need and historic demand, we will provide them with stronger enforcement powers to tackle unauthorised development and illegal trespass. In addition, we will introduce a new criminal offence of intentional trespass."

Gypsies to contribute: "At the same time, it is important that settled council tax payers do not foot the bill for the construction of new authorised sites. The Conservatives will reform the system so traveller site funding to councils so that they are properly compensated for new sites and will require travellers to make a contribution to to the cost of services on authorised sites."

A British Bill of Rights: "The Human Rights Act has made it more difficult and expensive to evict trespassers from private and public land and has overridden planning law by allowing travellers to proceed with unauthorised developments. Conservatives will replace Labour's Human Rights Act with a new British Bill of Rights which will help to address these problems."

Scrap the Direction: "The Labour Government has used the regional planning system and top-down targets to force local authorities to build new camps for the travellers, often on Green Belt land. Conservatives disagree with these top-down building targets, for traveller camps and for new houses. As part of the abolition of regional planning and the Regional Spatial Strategies, targets for the provision of traveller camps will be scrapped. In addition we will also scrap John Prescott's controversial guidance on travellers."

"Only a vote for the Conservatives will deliver the change we need and bring power back to the local people. Labour have neglected local needs and allowed the traveller problem to grow over the last 13 years. Please don't let them do it again", Mrs. Laing explained.

EPPING PREPARES TO ELECT ITS NEW MAYOR

2010-04-30T01:01:00.000-07:00

Epping Town Council are due to hold their Annual Meeting on Tuesday 4th May at 8.15pm at Epping Hall, St. John’s Road, Epping, CM16 5JU, to which all members of the public are invited to attend.

At this meeting, the first item of the agenda is for sitting elected Councillors in Epping to nominate and vote to elect a new Town Mayor for a period of 12 months. The current Mayor of Epping, Councillors Mrs. Janet Hedges will hand over her the town’s gold Chains of Office, her seat as Chairman of Council proceedings and relinquish all duties associated with being the ‘First Citizen’ of Epping before joining the ranks of Former Mayors.

At one of my own final events as Mayor of Epping, I met with 11 Former Mayor’s, the photograph from which I have attached showing, from left-to-right: Dennis Favre, Ken Avey, Susan Perry, Richard Brady, myself, Letitia Berry, Daphne Jenkins, Hugh Pegrum, Ralph Dulwich, Alan Smith and Peter Burns.

COOPERSALE SOCIAL INSTITUTE HALL REFURB

2010-04-29T15:42:00.000-07:00

Epping Town Council have approved a grant of £300 to Coopersale Social Institute which is hoping to see a major refurbishment of its hall, which will cost tens of thousands of pounds.

The registered charity has runs its operations at a impressive year-on-year profit and the Town Council believed the hall was a well used facility in the heart of Coopersale which served a broad range of local residents.

The Council have also agreed to provide further advise and information to the charity wherever possible. Previously, Epping Town Council provided a grant of £600 in 2003 towards the cost of replacement front doors of the hall and a £250 grant in 1999 to help with the cost of replacement tables.

PLANNING APPLICATIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

2010-04-28T12:55:00.000-07:00

The following planning applications will be considered by Epping Town Council's Planning and General Purposes Committee on Tuesday 4th May 2010. If you wish to express your view to the committee on any of the application below, you can either email info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or attend the meeting in person at Epping Hall, St. John's Road, Epping, CM16 5JU.

EPF/0485/10 - Mr. R. Stokes, Forest Gate Inn, Bell Common, Epping - First floor extension.
EPF/0665/10 - Mr. & Mrs. P. Micallef, Mason Bridge Farm, Fiddlers Hamlet, Epping - Conversion of existing outbuilding into a separate dwelling with associated parking and amenity space.
LB/EPF/0666/10 - Mr. & Mrs. P. Micallef, Mason Bridge Farm, Fiddlers Hamlet, Epping - Grade II listed building application for the conversion of existing outbuilding into a separate dwelling with associated parking and amenity space.
EPF/0493/10 - Mr. B. Daniels, Coaching House, R/o Batchelors, Buttercross Lane, Epping - Conversion and alterations of the single storey coaching house into a two bedroom house.
LB/EPF/0493/10 - Mr. B. Daniels, Coaching House, R/o Batchelors, Buttercross Lane, Epping - Grade II listed building application for the conversion and alterations of the single storey coaching house into a two bedroom house.
EPF/0679/10 - Mr. P. Jolley, 22 The Orchards, Epping - Single storey rear extension.

WHY VOTE FOR ELEANOR LAING ON 6th MAY 2010?

2010-04-25T15:02:00.000-07:00

Aside from all of the reasons local people are hearing from David Cameron as to why you should vote Conservative on Thursday 6th May, there are many reasons, I believe, you should support our local Conservative candidate, Eleanor Laing.

Eleanor has served as the Member of Parliament in Epping Forest for the past 13 years helping literally thousands of local residents as and when they face issues. More than that though, Eleanor has acted as an ambassador for Epping Forest nationally fighting hard against Government proposals which will negatively effect our day-to-day lives. She has also served in a variety of roles within the Shadow Front Bench team, creating Conservative Party policies and holding the Government to account in key areas.

One of Eleanor’s greatest battles as our MP, has been to protect the Green Belt which is constantly under threat from development. Very recently, Eleanor has worked hard to ensure that Green Belt land locally does not become the home of large groups of Gypsy and Traveller families. In a recent Residents Survey, Eleanor has explained: “David Cameron has promised a total change of direction on planning policy for gypsies and travellers if we win the election. There will be no more regional or national planning control. Decisions will be taken at local level - where people know what is best for their own community. So, get rid of Gordon Brown and we also get rid of the plans for more gypsy and traveller sites in Epping Forest.”

For those of you wishing to read more information about Eleanor and her work as an MP, you will find her voting record in the House of Commons here. The Early Day Motions she has supported here. The speeches she has made at debates here. The written questions she has submitted to Ministers here and a list of her Parliamentary expenses here.

For campaign related information, you can logon to Eleanor’s website here or download a copy of her Election Address here. Alternatively, you can become friends with Eleanor on Facebook here.

EPPING TOWN SHOW - Sunday 20th June 2010

2010-04-24T17:25:00.000-07:00

Once again this year, Epping Town Council will be hosting a Town Show at Stonards Hill Recreation Grounds on Sunday 20th June from 11am to 4pm. Entrance is free and it is with pleasure I can report that this year’s event has doubled in size. Mark the date in your calendar now as this is a fantastic event for all of the family - to give you a taster of what we have planned, please see below:

Arena Events - Epping Forest Band, Shaolin Warriors, Brownie Races, 2 x Falcon displays, Darren Hunt Wheelbarrow race, Ferret Racing, performances by Epping Primary, Ivy Chimneys Primary, Coopersale and Theydon Garnon Primary and St. John‘s School.

Field Activities - Climbing Wall, Fire Brigade, Coconut shy, Face Painter, Caricaturist, Roger Arnay Circus Company, Large Fun Fair, Donkey Rides, Ferrets, Big trucks including an American Mack Truck & Vintage double decker bus.

Food & Drink - Hog Roast & Burgers by Churches Butchers, Beer Tent hosted by the Merry Fiddlers, Brian Print Burger Van, Little Dutch Pancake Company, Darren Hunt’s Tea, cake, & strawberries and an Ice Cream van.

Stalls - Royal British Legion, Usborne Books for Kids, Lets Play Fair, Citizens Advice Bureau, Humbug Sweet Shop, Cancer Research UK, Fox Welfare, Epping Portrait Studio, Epping Forest Cats Protection, Epping Horticultural Society, Garks Comfectionary, Royal Gunpowder Mills, SSAFA, Friends of St Margarets Hospital, Multi Faith Forum, St Clare’s Hospice, Epping Tennis Club, Higham Woodturners, Rotary Club of Epping, Epping Society, St Johns Church, A Gift A, Essex Farmers Market, Girl Guiding UK, Airbrush Temporary Tatoos, Epping Forest Field Centre, Sahara Gifts and Epping Upland Church.

For more information, please contact Epping Town Council on 01992 579444.

EPPING PROUDLY CELEBRATES St. GEORGE’S DAY

2010-04-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

This evening I have had the pleasure of joining Epping Forest’s MP, Eleanor Laing and the Rev’d Geoffrey Connor at a St. George’s Day Concert at St. John’s Church in Epping. As Mayor, I actually introduced the concert as a way of marking England’s national day last year, as I didn’t believe nearly enough was being done to remind people of what it is to be English, as opposed to British or European. I also introduced a shop window decoration competition, which it has been great to see many businesses take part in again this year.

Next year I hope to grow these events further by reintroducing the St. George’s Day parade through Epping High Street. It is absolutely right that we celebrate England’s rich heritage and have as many people as possible join us in doing so.

One point so many residents have made recently is that they believe St. George’s Day should be a Bank Holiday, as I wholeheartedly agree. It was great to hear Mrs. Laing agree to and better still, to hear that David Cameron is examining plans to do so, should he be elected on May 6th. He has said today: “Let us say, loudly and proudly, from this point on, we should always properly celebrate St George’s Day”.

LETTER FROM ESSEX MEP GEOFFREY VAN ORDEN

2010-04-17T07:07:00.000-07:00

The Labour Party's enthusiasm for mass immigration has little to do with EU.

SIR – When the Labour Party came to power, it was determined to destroy "the forces of conservatism". Observing this, I used to half jokingly say that it didn't really like the British people and wanted to change them. From papers made public earlier this year this suspicion has been confirmed. The Government's deliberate encouragement of mass immigration was part of a plan to change the fabric of our country. The way the statistics are presented makes it difficult to understand the reality. The following, however, stands out from the years 1998-2008: net migration from EU countries, 547,000; net migration from other countries, 2,264,000 (predominantly South Asia, Africa and the Middle East). The net foreign inflow into Britain in 2008 was 250,000. Of this, 64,000 came from EU countries, 186,000 from other countries. The UKIP argument of blaming everything on the EU is therefore a nonsense. Even more nauseating is to hear ministers now saying that they want to control immigration and that the figures are moving in the right direction. The priority must be to integrate our resident immigrant population and to bring a rapid end to mass uncontrolled immigration. The first cannot happen without the second. We then need to have the truth about what has really been going on over these past 10 years.
Geoffrey Van Orden MEP
Chelmsford, Essex

PLANNING APPLICATIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

2010-04-17T06:55:00.000-07:00

The following planning applications will be considered by Epping Town Council's Planning and General Purposes Committee on Tuesday 20th April 2010. If you wish to express your view to the committee on any of the application below, you can either email info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or attend the meeting in person at Epping Hall, St. John's Road, Epping, CM16 5JU.

EPF/0560/10 - Mr. N. Wold, 61 Theydon Grove, Epping - Rear Conservatory.
EPF/0561/10 - Mr. & Mrs. J. Wallis, 13 Stewards Green Road, Epping - Replacement garage to rear.
LB/EPF/0605/10 - Mr. A. Mushtaq, 20 Coopersale Street, Coopersale - Grade II listed building application for the insertion of flu for wood burning stove
EPF/0614/10 - Mr. & Mrs. K. Campbell, 16 Stewards Close, Epping - Replacement rear single storey extension.
EPF/0620/10 - Mr. R. Hill, 99 Theydon Grove, Epping - Demolition of existing conservatory and erection of single storey rear addition, formation of utility room within existing garage space.
TPO/EPF/0677/10 - Ms. J. Maidman, Glen House, Kendall Avenue, Epping - T1 (T30) Pine - Lift off roof to clear 2m.

OLYMPICS TORCH MAY TRAVEL THROUGH EPPING

2010-04-16T01:01:00.000-07:00

Epping Forest District Council and Essex County Council have submitted a request to the Olympic Delivery Authority to have the Olympic Torch travel through the district on its way to the London 2010 Olympic Stadium in Stratford.

Prior to each Olympic Games, a torch is lit in Olympia, Greece, and is then carried in a relay style procession from Greece to the host nation. The Prime Minister of the UK will accept the torch in London and HRH The Princess Royal will present the torch at the Grand Finales in Peninsula Square in the Olympic Park. Other carriers of the torch include Olympian Kelly Holmes, 5-time Olympic gold medalist Sir Steve Redgrave, British Pro Tennis Player Tim Henman, Girl band the Sugababes, actress Denise van Outen, news presenter Sir Trevor McDonald, violinist Vanessa Mae, sailor Ellen MacArthur and Arsenal footballer Theo Walcott.

ABANDONED CAR REMOVED - THORNWOOD ROAD

2010-04-15T01:01:00.000-07:00

Many residents in Thornwood Road have informed me about an abandoned car which has been left blocking the pavement, sticking out into the busy road causing larger vehicles to cross into the path of oncoming traffic and obstructing the view of residents trying to get out of Wintry Wood.

It is with pleasure I can report that this car has been removed today thanks to the efforts of Essex County Council’s Highways office, Epping Forest District Council’s parking office and Essex Police. A great example of what working together can achieve!

LRA DISTRICT COUNCILLOR JOINS CONSERVATIVES

2010-04-14T16:15:00.000-07:00

Rodney Barrett, District Councillor for the Loughton St. Mary’s ward elected to the Loughton Residents Association has, today, decided to ‘walk the floor’, leaving the LRA behind him and joining the Conservative Group.

Cllr. Barrett, who has been a Councillor since 2008, explained: “I'm sorry I have to, but unfortunately with the LRA I do feel we are such a small party and there's a difference in feel to a party that makes the decisions. I've left on good terms but when I got elected two years ago I said I'd do my very best for Loughton and unfortunately I don't think I can do that under the banner of the residents association. I love Loughton, I was born here, and I think the Conservatives will give me a better opportunity to help the people of Loughton.”

David Linnell, the Chairman of the LRA responded saying: “Cllr. Barrett says that the LRA has not achieved enough locally about pot-holes in the roads, litter and rubbish left on our streets, and a parking review for the roads around the High Road. We think that he is wrong. LRA has achieved a lot in getting roads repaired and resurfaced, and in improving the refuse and cleaning services, and we will continue to press the council on these issues.”

The Conservatives Group now have 35 out of 58 seats on Epping Forest District Council. The Lib Dems hold 9, the LRA hold 5, the BNP hold 4, Independents hold 3 and Labour hold 1.

BE ALERT – HOME BURGLARIES ON THE INCREASE

2010-04-14T06:30:00.000-07:00

In the past week alone, I have been made aware of two local burglaries at houses in Lincolnsfield and Coopersale Common. Both incidents took place during busy daylight hours and involved the burglars smashing a window and reaching around to open a locked door with the key still in it.

In Lincolnsfield, two laptops, cash, and jewellery were stolen, whilst in Coopersale a Canon digital camera, gent's Cartier watch and lady's Rolex watch described as oyster silver and white gold were all stolen. Anyone with information on these incidents can contact Epping Police Station on 0300 333 4444 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

PLEASE DON’T LOSE YOUR RIGHT TO VOTE!!

2010-04-14T01:21:00.000-07:00

As someone who has spent many years on local doorsteps discussing forthcoming elections, I know only too well the frustration people have when you tell them they are unable to vote because they are not registered. The usual responses are: “But I pay my Council Tax” or “I send that form back last year”, neither of which make any difference unfortunately.

Registering to vote is really simple. If you haven’t ready received a form through the post you can download and fill in a form online from the About My Vote website.

Alternatively you can telephone the elections team on 01992 564411 and they can post or email you a copy. All you need to do is complete the form and return to it: Elections Team, Civic Offices, High Street, Epping, Essex, CM16 4BZ. The deadline for all registrations is Tuesday 20th April 2010.

If you want to have a say in the Parliamentary and District Council elections this year, all you have to do is complete the simple form!

CHURCHES TOGETHER TO HOST HUSTINGS EVENT

2010-04-13T15:06:00.000-07:00

The Churches Together in Epping Forest have finally announced the date they shall host a General Elections Hustings to a theme of “morality”, which I wrote about previously here. This event will be open to all Epping Forest residents.

The debate will take place on Wednesday 28th April from 8pm in St. John’s Church, Epping.

Pastor Lee Carmichael, Pastor of the Elim Pentecostal Church will act as the meeting’s Chairman.

MEMBERS WANTED FOR EPPING GOSPEL CHOIR

2010-04-13T01:01:00.000-07:00

Members of the Epping Elim Pentecostal Church has established a Gospel Choir, which meets every Thursday evening at 7.30pm at Epping Hall in St. John’s Road.

If you’re interested in popping along to see what it’s all about or would like to register you interest, please click here.

NEW EPPING PRIMARY SCHOOL SET TO OPEN

2010-04-12T14:55:00.000-07:00

As many of you will know, the brand-new, state-of-the-art Epping Primary School building is due to open its doors bright and early on Monday 19th April.

Monday will mark an end to many years of hard work and dedication from staff, parents, governors, students and the wider community to ensure that our children receive the best possible education, in the best possible surroundings.

The building is designed for 420 pupils and includes a dividable hall, a kitchen to cook meals on-site, ecologically sound insulation and a woodchip boiler. There will also be a netball court and football field on site as part of the design.

HELP FOR HEROES CONCERT - Saturday 17 April

2010-04-11T14:24:00.000-07:00

Epping’s Rotary Club will be hosting a concert to help raise funds for the Help for Heroes charity with the support of the 40-strong Thames Valley Chorus.

Tickets for the event, which will take place on Saturday 17th April at St. John’s Church in Epping are available from Rev. Duncan Whitehouse at 3 Lynceley Grange, Epping, CM16 6RA or on 01992 577173 and are being charged at £10 and £15, dependant upon seating. Cheques should be made payable to the Rotary Club of Epping and tickets will be posted by return.

LORRIES DAMAGING EPPING WAR MEMORIAL AREA

2010-04-09T02:20:00.000-07:00

Once again this week, the area surrounding our town’s War Memorial in Church Hill has been damaged by lorries who use the small road around the memorial as a place to turn.

In the last two months there has been six vehicles to get stuck on the green, often damaging the stone path leading to the memorial.

Epping Town Council are committed to improving the rather sorry state of Epping’s War Memorial and its immediate surroundings. As such, it is reaching out to District and County Council colleagues, as well as the Corporation of the City of London (who own the green on which the memorial sits) in an attempt to draw-up a plan for improvement. Further updates on this important area of our town will follow in due course…

ELEANOR LAING: ELECTION CAMPAIGN POLICIES

2010-04-08T17:22:00.000-07:00

Conservative Parliamentary Candidate, Eleanor Laing has been the first to lay-out the core policies she will be campaigning on in the run-up to our May election in a leaflet being distributed. The literature gives residents a choice: "Five more years of Gordon Brown - or a brighter Conservative future" and continues to say “I have had the privilege of being MP for Epping Forest for the last thirteen years. I listen to you and I speak up for the issues you tell me you care about. You say we need to change things – and I agree!”

Mrs. Laing continues to explain that a Conservative Government will:
Change the Economy – Take quick action to get the economy moving. Rescue our country from Labour’s debt, waste and taxes. Boost enterprise. Help small businesses. Aspiration and opportunity are better than government red tape.
Change Society – Support families. Help people who do the right thing and deal with people who do the wrong thing. Raise the basic state pension and make benefits fair. Control our country’s borders. Restore discipline in schools. Back the NHS. Save the green belt. Responsibility is better than the nanny state.
Change Politics – Cut Whitehall and quangos. Cut the number of MPs. Take powers back from Europe. Let local people take local planning decisions. Freedom and transparency are better than state control.

EPPING FOREST PARLIAMENTARY ELECTION 2010

2010-04-06T15:19:00.000-07:00

So, our sitting Prime Minister, Gordon Brown finally met with Her Majesty The Queen at 10am this morning and requested that she dissolve Parliament and call a General Election on Thursday 6th May 2010. The work for political parties began immediately with troops being scattered right across the UK to win what is believed to be one of the closest fought contests in recent times. In Epping Forest, the following candidates have announced their intentions to stand for election:

Katie Curtis, Labour
I currently work in the trade union movement and lives in Canvey Island.

Ann Haigh, Liberal Democrat
Sitting District Councillor for Buckhurst Hill West. Professional ‘Children's Guardian’, social work consultant and trainer.

Eleanor Laing, Conservative
Sitting MP having represented Epping Forest for the past 13 years. Currently Shadow Minister for Justice having previously served as a Shadow Spokesman for Education and Skills, Constitutional Affairs, been an Opposition Whip, Shadow Minister for Children, Shadow Minister for Women & Equality and Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland.

Simon Pepper, Green Party
Head of Government and Politics at Chigwell School, born in Enfield in 1983 and now lives in Grange Hill.

Pat Richardson, British National Party
Sitting District Councillor for Loughton Broadway, renowned for recently saying to a newspaper: "Firebombing is not a British method. A brick through the window is a British method."

Andrew Smith, UK Independence Party
A Epping resident, born in Cambridge and currently working as a Finance Director at various Lloyds insurance brokers.

Kim Sawyer, English Democrats
The situation with this candidate is confusing. The National Chairman, Robin Tilbrook has states in an email that Kim in standing in Epping Forest, yet the national party’s website suggests Claire Breed is. Not a good start!

For some of the statistical information about the Epping Forest constituency and past election results, please click here. To see a full list of Parliamentary Candidates standing in Essex constituencies, please click here.

PLANNING APPLICATIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

2010-04-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

The following planning applications will be considered by Epping Town Council's Planning and General Purposes Committee on Tuesday 6th April 2010. If you wish to express your view to the committee on any of the application below, you can either email info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or attend the meeting in person at Epping Hall, St. John's Road, Epping, CM16 5JU.

EPF/0479/10 - Mr. L. Cole, 7 Crossing Road, Epping - Two storey side extension and rear extension.
EPF/0129/10 - Mr. A. Poulton, Land adjacent to Broadbents, Buttercross Lane, Epping - Erection of double garage with walls and gates.
LB/EPF/0367/10 - Mr. N. Clarke Hatrell, Forest Lodge, Woodmeads, Epping - Grade II Listed Building application for replacement roof on existing single storey rear extension, demolish existing rendered wall with glazed French doors and two windows, rebuild wall as glazed opening with glazing panels and French doors and various internal works.
EPF/0448/10 - Mr. R. Gough Stace LLP, Stace House, Buttercross Lane, Epping - Conversion of office building to four self-contained flats.
EPF/0451/10 - Mr. F. Galley, 37a Tower Road, Epping - Single storey rear extension / rear conservatory.
EPF/1210/10 - Mr. R. Sliffell, 2 Lower Busy Lane, Epping - Erection of detached workshop, first-floor extension over existing garage & boundary wall and gates.

DISTRICT COUNCIL ELECTION DATE ANNOUNCED

2010-03-29T14:55:00.000-07:00

Epping Forest District Council has issued public notification of their intention to host an election of twenty District Councillors on Thursday 6th May 2010. This is widely believed to be the planned date of the General Election where residents will be asked to vote to elect a Member of Parliament.

Nominations are now open for those wanting to stand in the poll can obtain the relevant documentation from the Civic Offices, High Street, Epping, CM16 4BZ or by calling Electoral Services on 01992 564000. All nomination papers must be delivered to the Returning Officer at the Civic Offices by 12pm on Thursday 8th April 2010.

Epping has two District Council seats up for election this year Epping Hemnall and Epping Lindsey & Thornwood Common. For more information on elections, please click here.

EPPING’S EASTER EGG HUNT - THIS SATURDAY

2010-03-25T15:02:00.001-07:00

An exciting Easter Egg Hunt is to take place on Saturday 27th March from 10am to 3pm in Epping High Street.

The event, organised by the 1st Theydon Garnon Scout Group are asking children to join the hunt for eggs which will be hidden in shop windows right the way along the High Street.

Entry forms call be collected on Saturday from the stand outside Greggs Bakery at a cost of £1 per child. All proceeds will go towards the fundraising campaign to build a new scout hut in Flux’s Lane.

LISTED STATUS FOR EPPING'S WAR MEMORIAL

2010-03-25T01:01:00.000-07:00

Epping Town Council has, today, received official notification that the town’s War Memorial in Church Hill has been granted Grade II listed building status.

Listed buildings are managed by English Heritage, but requests to obtain graded statuses have to be formally approved by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. The status itself is designed to preserve our memorial as an item of significant importance and should ensure it is protected and maintained to a high standard for generations to come.

ST CLARE HOSPICE'S CELEBRATES 20th BIRTHDAY

2010-03-24T15:13:00.000-07:00

Founders, trustees, staff and long-standing supporters of St. Clare Hospice have attended a special reception at the House of Commons to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the charity, hosted by Harlow MP, Bill Rammell and Epping Forest MP, Eleanor Laing.

The Hospice, which provides care for people with life-limiting diseases, such as cancer, end-stage neurological, cardiac, renal or lung disease, was first established by a group of local Councillors, healthcare professionals and business owners. Essex Radio presented the first cheque for £5,000 and a trustee, John Carr, raised £100 by placing a pint glass in a local pub, which raised enough money to register the charity formally. Since then, the hospice has gone on to help over 280,000 people in the local area.

During the reception, Richard Cowie, the current Chief Executive spoke about the plans for expansion and service development after which tours of the Parliamentary Estate were provided.

At a recent visit to the Hospice in Hastingwood, Mrs. Laing explained: “I am delighted to celebrate the Hospice's twentieth anniversary. So much good work has been done here over these twenty years and so many, many people have been helped. St Clare is one of our most popular local charities. It deserves lots of support and I look forward to seeing it go from strength to strength."

NO PLANS TO EXTEND CENTRAL LINE PAST EPPING

2010-03-23T16:37:00.000-07:00

Transport for London have confirmed that they have no plans to extend Central Line beyond Epping, despite rumours that a feasibility study has been commissioned to consider extending the track north of Epping Forest to Harlow.

A spokesman for the company said: "There is a well established rail link from Harlow into London, which stops at Tottenham Hale to link in with the Tube. Extending the Tube well outside of London to Harlow would not bring any journey time benefit to passengers, but would involve huge costs”.

Every since the Epping to Ongar section of the Central Line closed back in September 1994, residents who now have to travel into Epping from their own towns and villages have asked why Transport for London don’t extend the line further into Essex. I have put this question to TfL many times and the answer is simple - there just isn’t the money or the desire to do so.

CHURCHES TOGETHER TO HOST HUSTINGS EVENT

2010-03-22T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Churches Together in the Epping Forest district have announced their intention to host a hustings in the run-up to the general election and that invitations have now been extended to representatives from each of the 7 political parties who have announced their intentions to stand for election.

The event, which will take place inside St. John’s Church in Epping will focus on issues such as morality, the sanctity of human life, the education of children in such matters and the support to be expected from the government in protecting the rights of all citizens, particularly the old and infirm.

Those interested in obtaining further details of this event can contact the Epping District team office on 01992 575570 or 01992 579935. Alternatively you can email them here.

EPPING TOWNSPERSON OF THE YEAR ANNOUNCED

2010-03-18T16:04:00.000-07:00

The Mayor of Epping, Cllr. Mrs. Janet Hedges has officially presented the award for Epping’s ‘Townsperson of the Year 2010’ to Mary Morgan, a truly inspirational member of our community who has held a vast range of voluntary and charity positions in and around the town for a number of years.

I first met Mary and her very supportive husband at the ‘Christmas Alone Lunch’, which she hosts in the Catholic Church Hall at 12pm each Christmas Day. The event is open to anyone who would usually spend the day alone and not only is a four-course lunch provided, but a raft of entertainment is laid on and presents distributed. It really is one of the most magically generous events I have had the pleasure in attending. I have no questioning my mind when I describe Mary Morgan as an unsung hero and an exemplary member of our town. Truly selfless lady with a fantastic personally and a heart of pure gold.

Mrs. Morgan was presented with her award by the Mayor along with Lord Petre, the Lord Lieutenant of Essex and Michael Chapman, Deputy Lord Lieutenant.

MP LAING TO ATTEND BUSINESS THEMED DEBATE

2010-03-16T17:48:00.000-07:00

The Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce is to host a political debate on Wednesday 21st April at Woolston Manor Golf and Country Club from 7.30am to discuss the big issues effecting local business, covering everything from the significant increase seen in business rates to the impact of the global financial crisis.

Representatives from all of the national political parties have been invited to attend, including Conservative MP for Epping Forest, Eleanor Laing, who has agreed to ensure there is a lively debate on both local and national issues and welcomed the opportunity to discuss the key issues effecting business within her constituency.

Epping Forest Chamber of Commerce is an independent, non-profitable organisation run by business people for the benefit of commerce in the local community. The Chamber brings together over 100 diverse companies in the Epping Forest district.

To obtain your ticket for this event, which are being charges at £12 to members and £15 to non-members, please telephone on 0843 289 8184 or email here Alternatively you can book online here. Tickets include a full English breakfast.

BURGLARY NUMBERS DECREASE IN EPPING FOREST

2010-03-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

This weekend, I have had a discussion with the District Commander of Policing, Chief Inspector Alan Ray, specifically around dwelling burglaries in Epping Forest, which has been an issue effecting a large number of local residents for many years.

On this issue there is generally good news. Our district has seen a 9% reduction in dwelling burglaries in the past year, which bucks the nation and local trend; Harlow is up 38%, Brentwood is up 30% and Havering is up 25%. During the same period, we have seen an increase of 23% in attempted burglaries, meaning that residents have been a great deal more on the ball in reporting concerns before a crime is actually committed.

That said, the western policing division, which incorporates Epping Forest, Harlow and Brentwood remains the worst in Essex for dwelling burglaries, so the important cross-border work must continue.

One way residents can help drive down these figures is by ensuring their doors are actually locked! It sounds simple, but an enormous amount of burglaries in this area are committed when people think their UPVC doors are locked when it is merely shut. Let’s remain alert and continue to report questionable circumstances or people in our communities.

To discuss any specific concerns you have relating to criminal activity in Epping, please contact PC Gary Harrington at Epping Police Station on 0300 333 4444 or on 07779 317211. Alternatively you can email him here.

YOUNG PEOPLE VOTE TO LOWER VOTING AGE

2010-03-12T15:35:00.000-08:00

Epping Forest District Youth Council have hosted a debate and vote which brought forward a motion that the voting age in the UK should be lowered from 18 to 16 years of age. 54% voted in favour of the motion at an event held at the Civic Offices in Epping designed to encourage an interest in democracy among the district's younger residents.

The Youth Council had an opportunity to meet with and question District Council Chairman, Cllr. Mrs. Penny Smith, Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing and Harlow MP Bill Rammell.

The full debate was webcast and can be viewed by clicking on this link.

SPRING EDITION OF "THE FORESTER" RELEASED

2010-03-10T16:36:00.000-08:00

Epping Forest District Council have launched their latest edition of “The Forester” magazine this week, which provides local residents with a mix of council and community news, features and has an A to Z of the most frequently used council phone numbers. It is sent to all residents in the district.

This addition includes actiles on: CCTV success, emergency planning, waste and recycling, Waltham Abbey bible, parrot appeal, Essex on tour and much more.

To download your copy now, please click here. For past editions of The Forester, please click here.

TEENAGE CRIMINAL ACTIVITY AT STONARDS HILL

2010-03-05T18:21:00.000-08:00

A 17-year-old boy from Epping was arrested and charged today for possession of an offensive weapon (an 18-in metal weight-lifting bar), which was discovered at Stonards Hill Recreation Ground following an incident which saw a 15-year-old boy, also from Epping suffer a broken right elbow.

The 17-year-old has been bailed and is set to appear before Harlow Youth Court on Friday 19th March. Police are appealing for witnesses. Anyone who has any information about the incident is urged to call Essex Police on 0300 333 4444.

TORY MEPs STAND-UP FOR ESSEX BUSINESSES

2010-02-24T18:04:00.000-08:00

Conservative Eastern Region MEP’s , Geoffrey Van Orden and Vicky Ford are extending invitations to local businesses of all sizes to an important conference to be held at Clare College in Cambridge on 15th March.

The event will be attended by leading members of the Shadow Cabinet and experts in EU
funding programmes. This will be an excellent opportunity to hear about possible developments in business policy and to get a clear, down-to-earth explanation of how you could get EU funds for your business.

Geoffrey explained: “2010 is going to be an important year in British politics and of particular significance for local businesses. If you run a business or have any interest in these issues, you would be warmly welcome to attend”.

Fore more information please email Geoffrey here or call his office on +32 (0)2 284 7332. Alternatively, you can visit his website here.

CLUB ONE9FIVE TO REOPEN WITHIN A WEEK!

2010-02-18T13:12:00.000-08:00

Epping’s renowned Club One9Five will reopen on Friday 26th February after Epping Forest District Council’s licensing sub-committee issued the nightclub a new license today.

The club’s license was revoked and subsequently closed following a serious incident outside of the venue on Sunday 26th September 2009 in which 8 people were stabbed and a number of others injured. The committee announced at 12.45pm that a decision had been made to issue a new license following Club One9Five’s change in management and promises to make changes to safety and security procedures.

For those of you who don’t understand the depths of the Licensing Act 2003, if a new management team apply for a new license, any of the historic criminal activity or generic trouble associated with the old licensees has to be disregarded by the committee whilst considering the new application.

To view Club One9Five’s application form and the letters received from local business and residents, please click here.

CAFE BELGIQUE ISSUED WITH FOOD WARNING

2010-02-17T14:56:00.000-08:00

Epping’s Belgique Café located in High Street has received an official food safety management warning from Epping Forest District Council’s environmental health officers this week, after an inspection found that shrimps, cheese and ham were all out of date, in one case, by more than a month.

At a hearing at Harlow Magistrates’ Court, the food was ordered to be condemned and destroyed, with the café chain told to pay costs.

A Council spokesman said: "Two hygiene and improvement notices have been issued to Belgique on ‘food management safety’ and ‘staff training’. They have 14 days to comply with the notices and failure to do so could lead to prosecution."

DRUG DEALERS GET COMBINED 65 YEAR SENTENCE

2010-02-16T14:08:00.000-08:00

Three gentlemen from Epping Forest, Frankie Stedman, 26, of Cunningham Rise, North Weald, John Esqulant, 52, of Blackacre Road, Theydon Bois and Columbian national Fernando Hurtado, 41, of Waltham Abbey have been sentenced to a combined 65 years in prison after the Serious Organised Crime Agency uncovered a drug operation involving £80m worth of cocaine (299 kilos).

Hurtado and Esqulant have now been found guilty of conspiracy to supply cocaine at Leicester Crown Court where they were sentenced to 28 years' imprisonment. Stedman, who was arrested on June 18, 2009 as he stepped off a plane at Heathrow Airport, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to supply cocaine and was jailed for 9 years.

A spokesman for SOCA said: "These men thought they could make a lot of money through drug trafficking but they were wrong. Our officers were one step ahead of them and made sure their plan failed. SOCA is investigating the gang's finances. A confiscation hearing will take place later this year.”

GYPSY & TRAVELLER UPDATE: Government Appeal

2010-01-15T10:32:00.000-08:00

The Leader of Epping Forest District Council will appeal directly to the Government for the removal of the Direction requiring the Council to consult upon and develop a separate Gypsy and Traveller Development Plan Document. The letter to Right Honourable John Healey MP, Minister for Housing and Planning within the Department of Communities and Local Government was recommended at the Cabinet meeting on 4 January to Full Council on 19 January for final approval.

Councillor Di Collins will publish a letter on behalf of the Council drawing attention to the substantial increase in provision of authorised pitches since the Government Direction. She will state that the workload associated with continuation of the Government Direction is putting other planning priorities at risk. She will seek approval for the Gypsy and Traveller Development Plan Document to be subsumed within the Core Strategy of the Local Development Framework. She will seek support from all three local MPs and the Shadow Minister.

Councillors also asked Councillor Collins to remind the Minister that the new planning framework was supposed to streamline processes and reduce costs. The Direction seems to have created the opposite effect. Councillors complimented the local community for the amount of work that had gone into the responses to the consultation and stressed that this evidence base was a key input to further work on the DPD.

Epping Forest District Council is required to identify space to accommodate a minimum of 34 additional Gypsy and Traveller pitches by 2011. Through the normal planning process, permissions and approvals have reduced this figure to about 20. However, more than 10,500 people responded individually or as part of groups to the consultation on potential sites. This led to a massive evaluation exercise for Council staff which has taken far longer than the Government timetable envisaged.

The Council wants to streamline the process by subsuming the Gypsy and Traveller issues into the Core Strategy as part of the Local Development Framework. The LDF replaces the Local Plan as the ‘blue-print’ for policies against which future planning applications are judged. Completion of the LDF is considered vital by the Council as it prepares with Harlow and East Herts District Councils to implement the recommendations of the East of England Plan. The Council will continue the preparation of the Gypsy and Traveller Development Plan Document pending the Minister’s response.

Councillor Di Collins said: “There is enormous strength of feeling among residents and councillors. We believe the original Government Direction was flawed. We are now appealing to the Minister to look at the outcome of that Direction - the process that Epping Forest District Council has followed - and listen to local residents and councillors and the evidence we have already collected. If he listens, I believe he must understand that the Direction should be lifted and local people should be trusted with the power to make decisions for ourselves.”

DISTRICT RUBBISH COLLECTIONS SUSPENDED

2010-01-07T16:31:00.000-08:00

Following several accidents and injuries involving members of the refuse collection teams, all waste and recycling collections have been suspended throughout the district. The collection crews are facing severe difficulties in providing the service due to the very dangerous conditions which exist on many of the district’s roads and pavements. During the suspension of normal operations the Council have diverted resources to the gritting of town centres and secondary shopping areas.

They will continue to monitor the situation carefully and recommence waste and refuse collections as soon as it is safe to do so. Prioritised collections will take place so that those properties that have been waiting the longest for a collection are dealt with first.

Councillor Mary Sartin, Environment Portfolio Holder said: “I would like to express my thanks and concern for the waste collection crews. They have done everything possible to keep collections going but conditions have become too dangerous. Refuse and recycling collections will recommence as soon as it is safe. In the meantime I would like to thank residents for their continuing patience and support.”

'HELP THY NEIGHBOUR' SAYS COUNCIL LEADER

2010-01-07T15:14:00.000-08:00

The Leader of Epping Forest District Council, Cllr. Mrs. Di Collins released a public statement today saying: “Severe weather puts a great deal of extra strain on local services but it is in these situations that we find the best examples of community spirit. If you know someone who may be vulnerable why not give them a ring or a knock on the front door just to make sure they are all right. If travellingm Have plenty of warm clothing and an emergency supply of food and drink in your car. Make sure you are not short on fuel and put a spade in the boot. Make sure your mobile phone is charged and has enough credit. Keep a careful eye on weather reports and travel news before deciding to travel. Tuning into your local radio station can be the best source of news.”

HOW ARE WE DEALING WITH THE SNOW IN EPPING?

2010-01-06T03:32:00.000-08:00

I’ve had a number of emails and calls from residents recently regarding how Essex County Council’s Highways and Transportation department are helping to keep Epping moving during the heavy snow we have seen in the past few weeks. Many residents have asked which roads actually get gritted or salted as part of the Council’s precautionary measures (i.e. when frost, ice or snow are forecast) and the answer is:

* Motorways.
* “A”, “B” and “C” roads, main roads linking estates etc.
* Direct access routes to hospitals, fire and ambulance stations.
* Public service bus routes carrying a total of four or more public service buses per day, at least 5 days a week.
* Sites of four or more recorded accident (Personal injury accidents) within a 3 year period where frost/ice on the carriageway surface was a contributory factor.
* Rural routes, i.e. the main access road, leading to the main settlement, of parishes of 50 Households or more.
* Epping Forest District Council are also provided with a supply of salt grit to cover town centres.

In Epping, the following roads are also covered: Lindsey Street, High Street, High Road, Palmers Hill etc, The Plain, Coopersale Common, Stonards Hill, Coopersale Street, Stewards Green Road, Station Road, Centre Drive, Bower Hill, Bridge Hill, Brook Road, Ivy Chimneys Road, Theydon Road, Bury Lane, Tower Road, Lower Swaines, Coronation Hill and Shaftsbury Road.

The following roads are classed as “secondary roads” that we salt post snow/ice when resources permit and when the main salted roads are clear: Kendall Avenue, Ravensmere, Hemnall Street (both sections), Bakers Lane running into Ingles Mead, Nicholl Road running into Amesbury Road, Lincolns Fields, Rayfield, Severns Field (cul-de-sac), Beaconfield Road, Beaconfield Avenue.

A number of residents have also raised concern about the recent state of Crows Road, given the fact it is a very well used road to access St. John’s School and has a steep incline, so I have today had this road added to the secondary roads list.

Epping Town Council has also purchased a number of salt bins which are scattered across the town. These are to be used by residents who believe the road outside of their home is dangerous. They can be found at: Theydon Grove (opposite number 3), in Beaconsfield Road (opposite number 24), in Parklands (opposite 48), in Ingles Mead (at the junction with Rayfield), in Stewards Green Road (opposite the Merry Fiddlers Pub) and in St. John’s Road (inside Epping Primary School’s gates).

For more information about County Highways and travel information, please click here. Otherwise you can follow the latest announcements on Twitter here.

REFUSE COLLECTION RULES SUSPENDED

2010-01-06T03:22:00.000-08:00

Epping Forest District Council have announced today that they are suspending their standard rules on refuse collection to help ease the backlog of waste created over the Christmas period, which was impacted badly by the recent weather conditions.

The statement issued says: “The Council has suspended its normal rules on the putting out of side waste and will take away all waste put out for collection until the backlog has been cleared. Residents are reminded that dry recycling (including glass) can be put out in any container (except a black plastic sack) and the crews will collect it. Christmas trees will also be collected as part of the food and garden service, provided that they are not taller than, or have been cut down into pieces of, not more than four feet (1.2 metres). Residents are requested to continue to separate their recycling as this is particularly important at this time of year due to the volumes of glass, plastic and paper packaging in the waste stream.”

DISGUST AT PROPOSED WOOTON BASSETT MARCH

2010-01-05T01:14:00.000-08:00

Today, I received a message from the family of the late Royal Marine Georgie Sparks, which informed me of a proposed protest march organised by an extremist Islamic al-Muhajiroun movement in the small market town of Wooton Bassett.

Anjem Choudary of Islam4UK has sparked dismay with plans for 500 of its members to parade with empty coffins symbolising Muslim victims through the town, which has become famous for honouring service personnel killed in the conflict, as they land at RAF Lyneham.

I wrote to Cllr. Chris Wannell, the Mayor of Wooton Bassett, last year to express the thanks of the people of Epping for the truly astonishing way their community had stood together and committed to showing each and every one of our war dead absolute respect when their bodies returned home.

Today, I have found myself writing to the Prime Minister and Home Secretary to express my concerns at the proposed march in this small town, as I believe it to be complete inappropriate and very disrespectful both to the community of Wooton Bassett and also to friends and families of the hundreds of brave soldiers who have travelled through the town.

Islam4UK claim to simply be making a political stand against the war, which, as a wholehearted believer in democracy, I can accept. However, this group, like all others, should make their representations known to those who made the decision to take our country to war and who are the only people who can end it, which is our Members of Parliament. Westminster is designed to accommodate protest marches of this kind. Bombarding Wooton Bassett in this way is, quite frankly, shameful and inappropriate.

This protest march will require the approval of the Home Secretary to take place, so please join me in sharing your concerns by emailing the Home Secretary here johnsona@parliament.uk or by writing to Rt. Hon. Alan Johnson MP, Home Secretary, 2 Marsham Street, London, SW1P 4DF. Alternatively your can email the Prime Minister here BrownG@parliament.uk or write to him at 10 Downing Street, London, SW1A 2AA.

WINTER SCENES IN & AROUND EPPING FOREST

2010-01-04T03:05:00.000-08:00

Epping Forest District Council’s photographer has managed to capture some beautiful pictures from across the district in the sever winter weather we have been subject to in the past few weeks, which you can view here.

MBE AWARDED TO LOCAL PC GERRY WILLMOTT

2010-01-01T03:10:00.000-08:00

A long-serving Metropolitan Police Officer from North Weald has been made a MBE for his work setting up a boxing club for inner city youths.

PC Gerry Willmott, of School Green Lane, was awarded the accolade in the Queen's New Year's Honours list after receiving widespread praise after launching a boxing club for young people in the London Borough of Haringey in 1999, as a way of keeping young people out of trouble by teaching them the discipline of the sport.

Gerry explained: "Ten years ago we just needed something to get the kids off the streets. We wanted to do something different from football and basketball and I have a background of boxing, even after joining the police force in 1975." Speaking about his MBE, he said: "When I found out I was completely surprised, I never expected to ever receive anything like this."

Gerry is a very old family-friend and I couldn’t think of a more fitting person to receive an award of this kind. Before moving to North Weald, he lived in Chapel Road in Epping for many years and served as a police officer in Waltham Abbey. He’s a man who gives so much of his time to benefit others and is the sort of person we all aspire to be. Well done Gerry!!

REVIEW OF EPPING’S CAROLS ON THE GREEN

2009-12-24T11:34:00.000-08:00

The town’s annual Christmas Carol Concert was, once again, a resound success. The event saw more pople than ever before come out to celebrate in some traditional festive community cheer!

It is events like this, which are entirely organised by local volunteers, that make our town stand out from others and makes us all proud to live in a town like Epping.

As you can hear below, I “Wish you a Merry Christmas” and a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.

CAROLS ON THE GREEN - CHRISTMAS EVE IN EPPING

2009-12-23T03:29:00.000-08:00

Epping Rotary Club will, once again, be hosting the town's "Carols on the Green" on Christmas Eve, starting at 3.45pm in Church Hill (by Epping's War Memorial).

The event, which is being supported by St. John’s School's band is open to everyone and complimentary mulled wine and hot chestnuts will be served. Song sheets will also be provided. A collection will be held with the proceeds going towards buying new instruments at St. John's School.

This is one fantastically festive community event I urge you all not to miss!

FREE LUNCH IN EPPING ON CHRISTMAS DAY

2009-12-21T08:25:00.000-08:00

The Churches Together in Epping and District are, once again, inviting anyone who is planning to spend Christmas Day on their own this year to join other local people for a traditional Christmas Lunch at 12pm.

The lunch itself takes place in the Catholic Church Hall, Church Hill, Epping, CM16 4RA (by Epping’s War Memorial) and lunch will be cooked and served entirely by local volunteers.

I have had the pleasure in joining the well-attended event organised by the wonder that is Mary Morgan and it really was a wonderful occasion, full or traditional festive cheer! Everyone is welcome to attend this event, so to book you place, please call Mary Morgan on 01992 574719 or any church of the churches in the Epping area.

CHRISTMAS CHURCH SERVICES IN EPPING

2009-12-20T08:40:00.000-08:00

For those who are interested, I have listed below the various Church Services taking place in Epping over the Christmas period:

Wed 24 Dec @ 5pm – Family Crib Service – St. John’s Church
Wed 24 Dec @ 8pm – First Communion of Christmas – Epping Upland
Wed 24 Dec @ 11pm – Midnight Communion – Theydon Garnon
Wed 24 Dec @ 11.30pm – Midnight Communion – Coopersale
Wed 24 Dec @ 11.30pm – Midnight Communion – St. John’s Church
Thur 25 Dec @ 9.20am – Christmas Morning Communion – Theydon Garnon
Thur 25 Dec @ 11am – Family Communion – Coopersale
Thur 25 Dec @ 9.20am – Christmas Morning Eucharist – St. John’s Church
Thur 25 Dec @ 9.20am – Christmas Morning Communion – Epping Upland

For more information about what’s the Church of England are up to in Epping Forest, please click here.

POLICE CHIEF GETS THE ALL-CLEAR IN COURT

2009-12-18T12:56:00.000-08:00

I found myself in the unusual position of providing a character reference to Ipswich Crown Court this week on behalf of Chief Inspector Jonathan Baldwin, who served as District Commander of Policing for Epping Forest during 2008 and early 2009.

C.I. Baldwin was arrested on three counts of fraud by misrepresentation relating to mileage claims between December 2007 and March 2008 totalling £310. I worked incredibly closely with the District Commander during this time in my role as Mayor of Epping and had no problem at all in describing him as a "committed, respected, focused and thoroughly decent". During our time together, we worked to establish various Neighbourhood Action Panels, Joint Action Groups and a Crime and Disorder Partnership for the district. I also spent time attending 'ride-alongs', where I would shadow him and other senior officers whilst they executed their duties to get a feel for what they were doing and what issues they were facing.

The jury took 35 minutes to find him not guilty of all counts and the Chairman of the Essex branch of the Police Federation, Tony Rayner, said the case should never have been brought before the courts.

It is, of course, absolutely right that allegations of this kind must be properly investigated and considered by the relevant authorities, but I do worry about the huge amount of time and public money that has been wasted on this case!

EPPING RETAINS “QUALITY COUNCIL” STATUS

2009-12-17T08:45:00.000-08:00

Epping Town Council is due to receive its official reaccreditation for Quality Council status after meeting all of the criteria set by the Essex County Accreditation Panel.

Town / Parish Councils are required to reapply for accreditation every 4 years and provide an in-depth portfolio of evidence for consideration. The accreditation scheme was introduced some years ago by the Government which had planned to pass additional responsibilities to those Council's which meet the strict criteria. There are 684 Quality Councils nationally, of which 113 have been reaccredited.

ESSEX SUFFRAGE MOVEMENT EXHIBITION

2009-12-07T08:36:00.000-08:00

Epping Forest Museum is to open a new exhibition next week on the women's suffrage movement in Essex.

The museum, located in Sun Street, Waltham Abbey, hosts the 'Breaking Barriers' series of displays from Friday 11th December until 13th March 2010.

The exhibition, which has been organised in conjunction with the Parliamentary Outreach Service, examines the experiences of suffragists and suffragettes in Essex and their struggle for women's rights. For more information about the exhibition and museum opening times, call 01992 716882.

EPPING'S ONLY NHS DENTISTS OFFICIALLY OPENS

2009-11-25T06:32:00.000-08:00

Epping’s only NHS dental practice was officially opened today by the Government’s Chief Dental Advisor, Barry Cockcroft.

The practice opened for business in February, but given the huge influx of patients, there hasn’t been time to arrange an official opening. I was personally inundated with calls and emails from residents desperate to get back on an NHS dentists patient list at the time and I criticised the Government for leaving many people living in our town who didn’t have the money to pay the hefty private dental fees without any health coverage cover.

This week, the co-principal of The Tooth Booth, Dr. Amit Rai was nominated for several categories at the 2009 Dentistry Awards. He said: "Since opening earlier this year we have been touched by the warm welcome we have received from the local community.”

For more information on The Tooth Booth and other NHS dental practices in west Essex call 0800 783 3396 or click here.

HAS THE CREDIT CRUNCH EFFECTED EPPING?

2009-11-23T06:16:00.000-08:00

Epping Forest District Council have published their latest “Forester Magazine”, which focuses solely on the effect the credit crunch is having in the local area.

This edition includes articles on supporting your High Street, grow your own, finding your next job, managing debt, making your savings work for you, caring for pets and much more.

To download your copy, please click here. For past editions, please click here.

EPPING'S CHRISTMAS MARKET - Fri 4th December

2009-11-19T12:47:00.000-08:00

Epping will once again be celebrating it's renowned Christmas Market on Friday 4th December 2009 from 12 noon until 8pm in Epping High Street. For a full list of events, please click on the image above. I hope to see you all there!

NEW VERDERER OF EPPING FOREST ELECTED

2009-11-18T12:52:00.000-08:00

Epping Green resident, Michael Chapman has been appointed to one of the four historic Verderer of Epping Forest roles, which dates back to the 13th Centaury. The Verderers post involves playing a key role in all matters relating to Epping Forest and to sit on the City of London’s Epping Forest and Commons Committee. To qualify for appointment a person must live within one of the forest’s parishes and to not be a member of the Court of Common Council of the City of London.

Mr. Chapman, whose other roles including being one of Her Majesty’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant’s of Essex and Chairman of Trustees of St. Clare Hospice is a solicitor by trade and has a keen interest in natural history. He helped to found Theydon Bois and District Rural Preservation Society and has also served as Chairman of the West Essex Health Authority.

Mr. Chapman explained: "As a walker and naturalist living in Theydon and Epping all my life I have always enjoyed the forest. I hope I will be able to help preserve the natural beauty of the forest so it can continue to be enjoyed by all." The new Verderer will take up his post in January and will be required to face re-election in March 2013.

MP LAING TACKLES “BIG BROTHER” STATE

2009-11-17T13:09:00.000-08:00

Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing, who also severs as Shadow Minister for Justice, has introduces new Conservative Party policies to protect privacy and prevent intrusion into innocent people’s lives.

Eleanor says: “It is every politician’s duty to safeguard the freedom of the individual citizen. More and more information is being gathered on each and every one of us - but enormous databases waste billions of pounds of taxpayers’ money.”

Eleanor has published a paper, “Reversing the Rise of the Surveillance State” which proposes to:
* Scrap the National Identity Register and ditch the ContactPoint database.
* Review the proposals to monitor adults who take children to school, to sports clubs or the Scouts.
* End the permanent retention of innocent people’s DNA on the National DNA database.
* Prevent councils from using anti-terror laws to spy on local citizens; surveillance could only be used where necessary to stop serious crime.
* Subject all new laws to a ‘privacy’ test, and beef up the role of the Information Commissioner.

Eleanor says: “I am deeply concerned about state intrusion into the lives of my constituents as they go about their everyday business. It cannot be right in this country that we are watched at every turn: driving the car, taking the children to school and even walking the dog. These proposals will protect the privacy of people from the state.”

DISTRICT FOOTBALL BADGE COMPETITION WINNER

2009-11-16T13:18:00.000-08:00

Ivy Chimneys Primary School pupil Arabella Moore has been announced as the winner of Epping Forest District Council’s “Football Badge Competition” and presented with the new football team kit by EFDC Chairman, Cllr. Mrs. Penny Smith and Leisure portfolio holder, Cllr. Brian Rolfe.

School children across Epping Forest district were invited to design a badge for the new women’s football club - the Davenant Diamonds - that Epping Forest District Council and the Essex FA set up last year.

Over 500 entries for the competition were submitted. The standard of the badge designs were extremely high but Arabella’s simple design of a diamond placed on a pink background, featuring the team’s name, was chosen as the winner.

EPPING FOOTBALL CLUB - NOVEMBER FIXTURES

2009-11-15T10:53:00.000-08:00

Epping Football Club is inviting residents to get behind their local team and attend some of their forthcoming games. All home games take place at Stonards Hill Recreation Grounds, Tidy’s Lane, Epping, CM16 6SP. For more information about the Club, please click here or see below for November's fixtures.

SATURDAY 21st NOVEMBER 2009
Essex County FA Junior Cup (Round 2) - Match Number 54
Haver Town v Epping Reserves (AWAY) - Kick-Off: 1.30pm - Referee: G. Clutton

Essex Olympian Football League - Premier Division
Epping FC v Kelvedon Hatch FC (HOME) - Kick-Off: 2.00pm - Referee / Assistants: J. Whittaker Jnr / N. Vickerstaff / Jason Fisher (01279 436477 or 07982 004309)

Mid-Essex League
Sporting Brentwood v Epping FC (AWAY) - Kick-off: 2.00pm - Referee: To be confirmed

SATURDAY 28th NOVEMBER 2009
Anagrams Records Trophy - Round 2
Epping FC v Sandridfe Rovers FC (HOME) - Kick-Off: 1.30pm - Referee / Assistants: G. Brazier / M. Smith / S. Batt

Essex Olympian Football League - Reserve Division 1
Mountnessing Boca v Epping FC (AWAY) - Kick-off: 2.00pm - Referee: S. Shuttleworth

Mid-Essex League
Epping FC v Byfleet Rovers FC (HOME) - Kick-Off: 2.00pm - Referee: W.Ostermeyer

ST. JOHN'S SCHOOL PRESENTATION EVENING

2009-11-14T04:40:00.000-08:00

St. John’s Secondary School in Tower Road has hosted it’s Year 11 Presentation Evening this week, which is the school’s opportunity to invite those students who left the school in the 2008/2009 academic year back to school to receive their GCSE certificates and other awards designed to recognise particular areas of achievement.

The event was an opportunity for the school to celebrate their strong exam results and the fact they have achieved the highest ever proportion of A* grades!

The Guest of Honour was former England and Tottenham Hotspur footballer, Les Ferdinand MBE. Also present was former QPR footballer, Clive Wilson who now coaches football at the St. John’s.

Assistant Headteacher, Richard Ahrens said: “Les gave an inspirational speech to students, parents and staff about the importance of perseverance in achieving your goals.”

PLANNING APPLICATIONS FOR CONSIDERATION

2009-11-13T04:54:00.000-08:00

The following planning applications will be considered by Epping Town Council's Planning and General Purposes Committee on Tuesday 17th November 2009. If you wish to express your view to the committee on any of the application below, you can either email info@eppingtowncouncil.gov.uk or attend the meeting in person at Epping Hall, St. John's Road, Epping, CM16 5JU.

EPF/1991/09 - Mr. R. Bixby, 8a Crows Road, Epping - Conversion of garage into habitable room. Contrary to condition 3 of planning permission EPF/1050/00.
EPF/1994/09 - Bellway Homes Essex, Plots 3 to 6 Kings Wood Park, St. Margaret’s Hospital, Epping - Erection of four detached houses (re-design of the approved Type A house).
EPF/1995/09 - Bellways Homes Essex, Plots 57 to 61 and 64 to 65, Kings Wood Park, St. Margaret’s Hospital, Epping - Erection of four detached houses (re-design of the approved Type A house).
EPF/1998/09 - Mr. B. Honey, 47 Allnuts Road, Epping - Erection of rear extension to replace conservatory and conversion of loft and rear dormer. Pitched roof to existing flat roof bathroom, gable end to main roof in place of hipped end.
EPF/2015/09 - Epping Forest District Council, Condor Building, Civic Offices, 323 High Street, Epping - Replacement of single glazed window units and non-thermally insulated cladding panels with double glazing units and insulated infill panels.
TPO/EPF/1963/09 - Mr. R. Hunt, 2 & 3 Bury Farm Cottages, Bury Lane, Epping - TPO/EPF/21/02 T2, T7 and T8 Ash Fell. T5 Ash 25% crown reduction.
EPF/2018/09 - Ascham Homes, 45 Rayfield, Epping - Single storey side and rear extension and loft conversion with rear dormer window.
EPF/2043/09 (Revised Application) - McCarthy & Stone, Site of 19-23 High Street, Epping - Erection of temporary McCarthy & Stone information advertisements on one sign board and on front boundary hording for up to 3 years.
EPF/1917/09 - Mr. & Mrs. J. Firman, Roscommon, Hemnall Street, Epping - Single story side extensions.

WESTMINSTER REPORT FROM ELEANOR LAING MP

2009-11-12T04:29:00.000-08:00

The Member of Parliament for Epping Forest, Eleanor Laing has launched her Autumn 2009 ‘Westminster Report’, which you can download here.

The report covers topics such as, ‘What Does an MP Do?’, and outlines some of the work Mrs. Laing has done recently on the Government’s proposals to introduce a huge number of sites for Gypsies and Travellers, supporting local businesses, tackling MPs pay, helping bring aid to Africa and fighting the ‘Big Brother’ culture. The report also includes a survey which asks: ‘What Would You Most Like Me to Achieve as Your MP?’

EPPING'S TOWNSPERSON OF THE YEAR 2009

2009-11-10T13:41:00.000-08:00

Epping Town Council has decided to honour one person from the town each year. The person chosen will have made a significant selfless contribution to the town’s community life, either by a single act which has provided significant benefits to a local organisation or a section of society, or a person which has given selfless service over many years to the community.

The winning candidate will be invited to attend the Mayor’s “At Home” as a guest of honour. Additionally, Council will highlight the good work of others nominated. It is hoped that this scheme of recognition will promote the ideal of service to the community in Epping.

If you wish to nominate a person, please click here to download a nomination form. Alternatively, you can write to the Town Clerk, Epping Town Council, Epping Hall, St. John’s Road, Epping, Essex, CM16 5JU with details of your name and address, the person you wish to nominate with the reason or you may collect a form from Epping Hall. The closing date for nominations to be received is 11th January 2010.

FREE HOME SECURITY ADVICE FOR RESIDENTS

2009-11-09T06:03:00.000-08:00

Epping Forest Safer Communities Team working in partnership with Essex Police are offering free security advice to residents considering making improvements to their security.

Community Safety portfolio holder, Cllr. Mrs. Syd Stavrou said: “This is a practical initiative designed to help residents with their security. The advice is free and impartial from two officers who have over 60 years of policing experience between them. We hope that by introducing this as a service we will prevent residents falling victim to crime.”

Chief Inspector Alan Ray, District Police Commander for Epping Forest District said: “This is a very good partnership initiative, fittingly launched during ‘Not in my Neighbourhood’ week. These officers have been carrying out joint security surveys for some time when crimes have occurred and they have proved very reassuring with householders. This initiative will extend this service to a wider group of residents.”

Any residents who are interested in having a security review can contact the Safer Communities Team by emailing here or by telephone to 01992 564608.

REVIEW OF REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY IN EPPING

2009-11-08T23:47:00.000-08:00

Once again this year, Epping saw record numbers of residents turn-out at the town’s War Memorial to show their respects for those remarkable young men who have given their tomorrows for our today.

The events, organised by the Royal British Legion, saw Epping Forest MP Eleanor Laing, Chairman of Epping Forest District Council, Cllr. Mrs. Penny Smith and Mayor of Epping Janet Hedges all lay poppy wreaths on behalf of the town, district and parliament.

Following the wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial, the parade, led by the Epping Forest Pipe Band and including war veterans, air and army cadets, members of the guides and scouting organisations, representatives of St. John’s School and police and fire officers, marched through Epping High Street, paying respects to local dignitaries on the way.

A Service of Remembrance then took place at St. John’s Church, led by the Rev’d Geoffrey Connor, supported by the Epping Forest Band. EFDC Chairman Penny Smith read from the bible, whilst Mayor Janet Hedges read the names of the fallen. After the service, wreaths were also laid at the Civilian Memorial outside St. John’s Church.

HELP US PROTECT EPPING'S CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

2009-11-07T16:30:00.000-08:00

It seems like utter madness that we only have 46 days left until Christmas but, alas, it is true!

Once again this year, Epping Town Council is working hard with various local organisations to pull together a schedule of festive events that the community can engage in. It is sad that each year these tasks become more complicated, as the laws and regulations around each task becomes more onerous, the goods and services cost more and less volunteers come forward to lend a hand.

On Sunday 15th November, Epping Rotary Club will be pulling together as many local volunteers as possible to help decorate and erect our Christmas Trees, which sit proudly above the shop fronts in Epping High Street and transform the centre of our community into a festive scene. So if you are fit, able and willing to help us keep the spirit of Christmas alive and well in Epping, please do come along. We shall be meeting outside of Marks and Spencer at 9am.

Without your practical help and support, this project would have to come to a halt. For more information, please feel free to email me here.

TEMPORARY CLOSURE OF BAKERS LANE CAR PARK

2009-11-04T16:51:00.000-08:00

Bakers Lane Car Park in Epping will be closed to the general public for improvcvement works from Tuesday 10th November until Tuesday 24th November 2009.

The upgrade works to be carried out consist of resurfacing the entire area of the car park, providing new improved surface drainage, improving the lighting and installing CCTV. 50% of the car park will remain open throughout this period, but will be strictly limited to permit holders only. A letter has been sent to all local residents and businesses close to this Car Park, providing details of the works due to be carried out and advising of the times they may be affected.

Baker's Lane is one of three car parks Epping Forest District Council operate in the town and has 141 long-stay spaces available. The charges for this car park are: Up to 2 hours = £1.40 and over 2 hours = £2.80. Cottis Lane has 213 short-stay spaces and the charges are: Up to 30 minutes = £0.10, up to 1 hour = £0.65, Up to 2 hours = £1.40, up to 3 hours = £2.80 and over 3 hours = £9.00. The Civic Offices has 28 short-stay spaces which are available on a Saturday and the charges are the same as Cottis Lane's.

For more information about parking in Epping Forest, please call 01992 564000 or click here.