GBC News Archive
Positive steps in collaboration between Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils Yesterday, our Executive approved plans to move forward with our Transformation and Collaboration Programme with Waverley Borough Council. Last year, the councils agreed to work together and appointed a joint management team. As the collaboration progresses, our aim remains to sustain and improve local services. There are clear, tangible financial benefits to the collaboration that both councils are already seeing more . . .
Review of Local Plan underway On Monday 4 December, our Joint Executive Advisory Board (EAB) will consider the scope of the forthcoming review of the Council’s adopted Local Plan: Strategy and Sites (2019). The formal review of the Local Plan will then follow, with a report to Full Council scheduled for February 2024. Based on the outcome of this review, we will determine whether we should update any elements more . . .
Enjoy festive family fun in Guildford this Christmas A free festive family fun day in Guildford town centre marks the start of the Christmas season. Join us and our town centre partners, Experience Guildford, as we launch Christmas from 11am on Sunday 19 November. Music, dance and drama will bring Tunsgate Arch and Friary Street to life throughout the festive day. Enjoy the merriment of the Bigmouth Christmas disco and groove more . . .
Our Acts of Remembrance for 2023 Each year on the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month, we pause to remember those who have lost their lives in two world wars and other conflicts around the world. We will be holding two events to mark Remembrance this year. Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday. On Saturday 11 November a short ceremony will take place on the balcony of the Guildhall in the High Street more . . .
Burpham Neighbourhood Area expanded to match new ward boundary A new neighbourhood forum has also been created. We have changed the Burpham Neighbourhood Area to reflect the new ward boundary. We’ve also designated a new Burpham Neighbourhood Forum to make it more representative. These changes follow a six-week consultation on both proposals.Now these are in place neighbourhood more . . .
By-election results for Surrey County Council Horsleys Division Cllr Dennis George William Booth (Residents for Guildford and Villages) has been elected as a councillor for Surrey County Council Horsleys Division. This follows a by-election on Thursday 19 October 2023. The votes cast were as follows: John Howard Barnes (Labour Party Candidate): 99 Dennis George William Booth (Residents for Guildford and Villages): 1095 ELECTED more . . .
Our climate action scorecard 2023 Climate Emergency UK has published the results of the Council Climate Action Scorecards. The not-for-profit organisation has scored all UK councils on their climate action across seven sections. These are: biodiversity, buildings and heating, collaboration and engagement, governance and finance, planning and land use, transport, and waste reduction and food more . . .
Turnaround in planning performance Following our intensive efforts to improve our planning performance, we’re pleased to announce that The Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Rachel Maclean MP, will not designate our council for its planning performance on non-major applications. She has reviewed the actions we’ve taken to improve our planning performance and wishes to support this improvement. The minister more . . .
Financial Recovery Plan moves to next stage
Potential savings areas in both the current and future years are set out in our Financial Recovery Plan. Leader of the Council, Cllr Julia McShane, said: “I’m pleased we’ve reached this milestone on our road to financial recovery. I’d like to thank all the officers and councillors who have worked tirelessly to get us this far. We remain more . . .
Financial Recovery Plan update September 2023 We are pleased to report that we’ve avoided a Section 114 Notice in October. Our Section 151 Officer has confirmed we’ve successfully balanced our budget for this financial year. We’ve identified enough savings to avoid issuing the Section 114 Notice at this time. This development reflects our commitment to act swiftly on this matter and put in place prudent financial more . . .
Ash Road Bridge drop-in sessions draw the crowds Over 400 people dropped into our Ash Road Bridge project information sessions last week. The project team were on hand to go through the plans and answer questions. There was a lot of interest in the new bridge and how the roads will look in future, as well as how we’re carrying out the work. While there were some concerns expressed, the majority were in support of the scheme more . . .
Empowering young people to use their right to vote We’ve teamed up with Guildford College and Surrey University to make sure students know how to register to vote. Young people are passionate about so many issues and it’s important they value the power of the ballot box. Young people keen to make a difference to their communities can have a voice about things that matter to them by using their vote to shape the future more . . .
Available Funding for Guildford Borough’s Community Projects This Autumn, we’re launching a new round of funding through Crowdfund Guildford. To support our communities, we’ll be offering up to £5K funding for community led projects that helps Guildford thrive. The new round will open on 3 October 2023. Our funding is supported by the UK Share Prosperity Fund more . . .
First Gold win in the RSPCA PawPrints Awards Our licensing team has won a Gold Animal Activity Licensing Award in the RSPCA PawPrints Awards. The RSPCA PawPrint Awards celebrate local authorities, housing providers and emergency services that have gone above and beyond caring for animals in their communities. The awards, which include five categories recognise excellent practises in animal welfare more . . .
Be part of a `Greener Guildford’ Celebrate Guildford’s Car Free Day on Sunday 24 September. Join in the fun as we put pedestrians first for ‘Car Free Day 2023’. See our town centre transformed for a day of celebrations and free family fun promoting a `Greener Guildford’ funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The town centre will come alive between 10am and 4.30pm with a variety more . . .
Statement following Extraordinary Full Council Meeting The Extraordinary Full Council meeting held last night (30 August 2023) endorsed the recommended Financial Recovery Plan. The plan outlines immediate actions and plans for the next six months. The recommendations agreed were: Recruitment and staff – an immediate external recruitment freeze will be in place until October 2023. This will be reviewed at the full more . . .
Ash Road Bridge – public information exhibition – 21 and 22 September We are building a new road bridge, with footways and a cycle path over the North Downs Railway Line. This will connect the Guildford Road/Ash Hill Roundabout to a new junction with Foreman Road, which will enable the closure of the existing level crossing at Ash to vehicular traffic.The scheme will also include junction improvements, landscaping and drainage works more . . .
Guildford House Gallery launches prestigious awards Guildford House Gallery and renowned arts consultancy, Parker Harris, are launching a new annual open art competition and exhibition. The Guildford House Open competition will highlight outstanding artistic talent. The competition and exhibition will showcase the best contemporary art from across the country. The judging panel Further raising the profile of our Heritage Service more . . .
Register to vote in the annual canvass 2023 We are appealing to residents to check their electoral registration details are up to date. It’s important that everyone who’s eligible to vote can do so. Surrey Police and Crime Commissioner elections are scheduled for next May and a general election is due by January 2025. You can only vote in elections if you are registered. From 4 August we’ll start emailing or writing more . . .
Our Seven Green Flag Parks Await Your Discovery! Seven of our pristine parks and countryside sites have once again won the Green Flag Awards! The Green Flag Award is the international mark of quality for parks and green spaces. Our commitment is to maintain and preserve these natural gems. Our green spaces are looked after by our dedicated parks team. We have a portfolio of 50 breath taking countryside sites more . . .
Our What active travel improvements would you like to see? We are working in partnership with Surrey County Council to develop a Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan in Guildford. This will help Surrey County Council decide where best to prioritise improvements over the next ten years, helping more people to walk and cycle more often. You can use an interactive map to ‘pin’ a location and leave your comments on how you more . . .
Community Wellbeing team named Finalist in “Make a Difference Awards” Our Community Wellbeing team are finalists in the presgious “Make a Difference Awards”. Out of thousands of nominaons made, only four finalists made the cut in the ‘Together’ category. BBC Radio Sussex and BBC Radio Surrey have run the awards for 12 years. It gives local people the chance to recognise those who make their lives better more . . .
Guildford Borough Council kicks off search for a development partner. We are looking for an experienced development partner to take forward the Guildford Park Road housing scheme. The partner we select will embrace our values and deliver much needed, high quality, environmentally sustainable homes, creating a new neighbourhood that fosters a sense of community more . . .
Find out About Guildford in our new, digital magazine We have launched a new, digital magazine for our residents. The quarterly e-newsletter will be full of council and community stories, news, and updates. The stories are about the people who live and work in our borough and focus on some of the most important areas of our work: community, climate change and the transformation of our borough more . . .
Guildford Borough Council Shortlisted for National Planning Award We’re in the running for a prestigious national planning award. Our Weyside Urban Village (WUV) regeneration scheme has been shortlisted in the National Planning Awards. The awards recognise outstanding work by councils, consultants, and developers. Our nomination is for the ‘Best use of council land and or property in placemaking’ more . . .
Meet Guildford’s newest Honorary Freeman Former Councillor, David Goodwin’s long-standing contributions to our borough have been recognised. Mr Goodwin was appointed as an Honorary Freeman. This is the highest honour that can be given for service to our borough. The ceremony took place at a Special Council meeting at the Guildhall on Thursday 1 June. The meeting room was attended by those of people who more . . .
Guildford Borough Council voter ID data released We’ve published data that shows the number of people who brought ID to our polling stations for the local elections on 4 May. The data shows that 99.1% of electors voting in our borough brought the correct photo ID to polling stations. This was to comply with new voter ID requirements introduced by the government. 24,468 electors voted at our 70 polling stations on 4 May more . . .
New exhibition at Guildford House Gallery – One Day This Glass Will Break Experiments in photography and printmaking are presented in a new Hayward Gallery Touring Exhibition, coming to Guildford House Gallery this month. One Day This Glass Will Break is a collection of works by artist Cornelia Parker. The exhibition includes twenty large-scale photogravures from three series that have been brought together for the first time more . .
New Mayor is ‘serving’ Guildford Focussing on ‘serving Guildford’, our new Mayor for 2023-24 is Cllr Masuk Miah. The new Mayor was appointed at the traditional Mayor Making ceremony at the Guildhall today. During his mayoral year, Masuk wants to support and inspire the many people who serve Guildford. Those who give up their time and energy to help others more . . .
Mayor celebrates dedicated community supporters Bringing communities together, dedicated community service and supporting our vulnerable residents. These are just a few of the things that 26 individuals and groups in Guildford have received a Mayor’s Award for. The Mayor’s Award for Service to the Community celebrates people in the borough who went out of their way to improve the lives of others. It recognises those who more . . .
Highway verge cutting, weed control and on street parking enforcement returns to Surrey County Council From 1 April 2023, the cutting of highway verges, weed control and on-street parking enforcement will be managed county-wide by Surrey County Council (SCC). Surrey County Council are taking these functions back to provide a consistent level of service and the ability to respond proactively to local green priorities more . . .
Ash Road Bridge scheme to go ahead The updated budget and funding strategy for the Ash Road Bridge scheme was approved at the Extraordinary Meeting of the Council on 16 March 2023. This allows the construction phase of this long-planned bridge and bypass to proceed once the successful contractor is selected from the tenders received. The total updated budget is £44.5 million, an increase of £5.59 million on the budget more . . .
Statement of Persons Nominated for Guildford Borough Council and Parish Council elections Notice of local elections – Thursday 4 May 2023 Our Returning Officer has today published the Persons Nominated for Guildford Borough Council and Parish Council elections. Elections for local borough councillors in all Guildford Borough Council wards will take place on Thursday 4 May. There are no contested Parish elections more . . .
Notice of local elections – Thursday 4 May 2023 Elections for local borough councillors in all Guildford Borough Council wards will take place on Thursday 4 May. Any elections for contested parish councils, or parish wards, will also take place on the same day. Polling stations will open at 7am and close at 10pm on Thursday 4 May. If you aren’t already registered to vote, please do this as soon as you can. It takes just five minutes more . . .
Guildford design awards From grand designs to granny flats, high street cafes to office hubs, school sites to heritage renovations, The Guildford Design Awards 2023 are now open! Organised by Guildford Society in partnership with Guildford Borough Council, the Guildford Design Awards (GDA) recognise and reward excellence in architecture, urban design, planning and public art across the borough. more . . .
The Local Plan: Development Management Policies adopted The Local Plan: Development Management Policies (LPDMP) was adopted by Full Council on 22 March 2023. This is the second part of the Local Plan. It supplements the adopted Local Plan: Strategy and Sites (2019) and supersedes the Local Plan 2003. The LPDMP brings a range of new development management policies. It will help shape and deliver high quality new development more . . .
New home for the Aggie Club Councillors were treated to a tour of the Aggie Club’s, brand-new temporary facility just 100 yards from their old home. The new community centre and social club opened in February 2023. It is the first step in the multi-million-pound regeneration of Weyside Urban Village. Leader of the Council and Lead Councillor for Housing and Communities, Cllr Julia McShane said: “It was a pleasure to see more . . .
Economic Development strategy approved Our new Economic Development Strategy (EDS) and Action Plan from 2023 to 2040 has been agreed. This outlines a renewed vision and our priorities to reinvigorate Guildford’s economy. The EDS and Action Plan represents over six months of research and consultation with stakeholders. Informing the EDS is an evidence base document which examines the borough’s economy more . . .
Matisse exhibition proves a great success “Bravo for bringing this to Guildford”, “Amazing. I was blown away” and “Well, this was nice” are just a few of the many positive comments we’ve had about Matisse: Drawing with Scissors at Guildford House Gallery. So don’t miss out, there’s still time to visit. The exhibition runs until 25 March 2023. Come along and discover the 35 posthumous prints of the cut-outs produced by Henri Matisse more . . .
Voter ID road show to pop up around Guildford during March Throughout March we will be at locations around the borough talking about the need for voter ID at this year’s local elections. For the first time, due to a change in the law, residents will need to show photo ID when voting at a polling station. We want to make sure that residents are aware of the new rules and know what they need to do ahead of polling day more . . .
Join us for family activities in Ash and Bellfields this Easter. On 4 and 12 April, our Playrangers will be visiting Ash and Bellfields between 2pm and 4pm with hopping Easter themed activities. Our special Playrangers sessions have so much for you to do. If the kids are feeling curious you can put on your explorer’s hat and delve into our Easter nature trail. They may just find some treats at the finish more . . .
Planning Inspectorate approves modifications to Development Management Policies
Local Plan A seven-week consultation on our emerging Development Management Policies Local Plan ended on Thursday 2 February. The Planning Inspectorate found that if we implement the suggested ‘main modifications’, the plan will meet all legal and national policy requirements. We will now consider whether to adopt the plan at the more . . .
Ownership Clear on Tumbling Bay Weir The Tumbling Bay Weir at Millbrook collapsed unexpectedly in November 2019. Although Guildford Borough Council don’t own the Weir, we agreed to fund a temporary solution, together with the National Trust. Following extensive research which was conclusive that Guildford Borough Council do not own the weir, it was agreed at a meeting of the Executive (22 February) that we are unable more . . .
Guildford adopts ambitious climate change plan At a meeting of the Executive last night (23 February), councillors adopted the Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP). This is Guildford Borough Council’s response to the declaration of a climate emergency we made in 2019. It builds on the actions we have already taken, reinforces our commitment to reach net zero emissions by 2030 and lays out the framework for how to achieve it more . . .
Voter ID awareness campaign ramps up across the Borough of Guildford Households across our borough will receive a Voter ID leaflet through their letterbox over the next two weeks. The leaflets are part of a public awareness campaign with the Electoral Commission.
We are encouraging voters to find out about changes to how they will vote at polling stations on 4 May. For the first time, residents will need to show photographic ID to vote more . . .
Green Belt planning guidance – consultation starts 22 February We are running a consultation on supplementary guidance to help decision makers assess planning applications in the Green Belt. The consultation will run from midday 22 February 2023 to midday 22 March 2023. National planning and the Guildford Local Plan, ‘Strategy and Sites’ (2015-2034), make clear that development is not generally allowed more . . .
We’ve published our budget for 2023/24 Guildford Borough Council agreed its budget for 2023-24 at last night’s meeting (8 February). Our budget sets out how we will continue to deliver quality and vital services over the next three financial years. Through this unpredictable time and during a cost-of-living crisis, we will also deliver on our Business Plan priorities.The proposals include a significant increase more . . .
Move from Bellfields Allotments Statement by the Lead Councillor for Environment, Cllr James Steel Ahead of the move from Bellfields allotments to new plots in the borough, we have met with allotment holders from Guildford Allotment Co-operative Society (GAS). In the past communication has been of concern, so we wanted to meet face to face with everyone affected. The purpose of the meeting was more . . .
Low rent increases and £20m investment in housing improvements Recommendations to the Budget Council today include a below inflation rent increase for over 5,200 council tenants. Also under consideration is a £20m investment programme of housing improvements. The Government set the cap for this year’s rent increase at 7%. We are proposing an increase of 5% because we recognise the financial pressures more . . .
Guildford Flies the Purple Flag Award in 2023 We are proud to announce that Guildford has officially been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag accreditation for our evening and night-time economy (ENTE). The Purple Flag aims to raise the standard and the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm and 5am. It is awarded to towns that meet or exceed standards of excellence in managing the evening and night-time more . . .
Protect your pet, use a licensed boarder We are encouraging pet owners in Guildford to make sure they use a licensed company to look after their pets when they go away. To get a licence, the premises will have an inspection and the business owner must prove that they know about the animals they care for. This includes understanding how to handle them, providing a safe environment for them and feeding them correctly. Applicants also have criminal record checks and vehicle checks more . . .
Don’t miss out on the chance to make a nomination in this year’s Mayor’s Award for Service to the Community It’s not too late to make your nomination to The Mayor’s Award for Service to the Community 2023. Nominations are currently open and must be submitted before Friday 3 February 2023. The Mayor of Guildford, Councillor Dennis Booth, said: “With just one week to go until nominations close I am calling on our communities more . . .
#CrowdfundGuildford launches it’s Spring funding round with pledges up to
10k available to make community ideas happen We have launched a new funding round as part of our digital crowdfunding initiative, Crowdfund Guildford This
round, up to 10k funding will be available to each project so we can continue to support community-led ideas that help Guildford thrive more . . .
MATISSE: drawing with scissors The French painter, sculptor and designer, Henri Matisse (1869-1954) was one of the 20th century’s most influential artists. Prints of his famous cut-outs will be on display at Guildford House Gallery from 21 January – 25 March 2023. It features 35 posthumous prints of the cut-outs produced by Henri Matisse more . . .
Planning Inspectorate approves modifications to Development Management Policies
Local Plan A seven-week consultation on our emerging Development Management Policies Local Plan ended on Thursday 2 February. The Planning Inspectorate found that if we implement the suggested ‘main modifications’, the plan will meet all legal and national policy requirements. We will now consider whether to adopt the plan at the more . . .
Voter ID awareness campaign ramps up across the Borough of Guildford Households across our borough will receive a Voter ID leaflet through their letterbox over the next two weeks. The leaflets are part of a public awareness campaign with the Electoral Commission. We are encouraging voters to find out about changes to how they will vote at polling stations on 4 May. For the first time, residents will need to show photographic ID to vote more . . .
Another milestone for our Draft Local Plan part 2 Our emerging Development Management Local Plan has progressed to another important milestone. Earlier in the year, we submitted a draft of the Plan to the Secretary of State. An Independent Planning Inspector was then appointed to check that it met all legal and national policy requirements. The Inspector has identified some ‘main modifications’ to the Plan and is now consulting on them more . . .
Festive family trail- explore our festive town centre trail to win cracking prizes This festive season, we’re launching an exciting family trail that will see ten impressive Nutcracker statues making the town centre their home. Our troop of colourful Nutcrackers will arrive at mystery locations around Guildford town centre from 7 December to 5 January 2023. Designed with families in mind, the Nutcracker trail lets you explore the town centre at your own pace more . . .
Christmas in Guildford began with a flurry of fun Guildford town centre was brought to life on Sunday 20 November by a huge programme of free family fun, performances and activities. Under a bright blue wintery sky, our Festive Family Fun Day turned the streets into a wonderland of happy families and laughing children more . . .
Cllr George Potter to join the Executive as Lead Member for Climate Change Leader of the Council, Cllr Julia McShane said: “Cllr George Potter is joining the Executive as Lead Member for Climate Change (including responsibility for air quality and sustainable transport). “I am very grateful to Cllr Cait Taylor for her hard work and commitment to this important role over the past year more . . .
Remembering our loved ones at Christmas The annual Christmas service of remembrance at our Crematorium is on Tuesday 6 December at 6.30pm. There will be carols, readings and a chance to light a candle in memory of loved ones. Councillor James Steel, Lead Cllr for Environment, said: “This special Christmas service is a wonderful opportunity more . . .
A wonderland of fun in Guildford Everyone is invited to enjoy Christmas festivities in Guildford town centre this year. From 17 November to 5 January, the town centre will become a Christmas wonderland, with lots to do and see, for all ages. The jewel in the Christmas crown, a free Festive Family Fun Day will take place on 20 November from 11am to 4pm. Bump into some Christmas characters as you discover a day of free performances, activities and workshops more . . .
New Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Guildford selected for 2022-23 Councillor Dennis Booth and Councillor Masuk Miah are the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Guildford. The selection was made at the Annual Council Meeting yesterday (11 May 2022). Councillors Bob McShee and Tom Hunt nominated Councillor Dennis Booth as the new Mayor more . . .
Update from Tom Horwood, Chief Executive, Guildford & Waverley Borough Councils Covering Ukraine Fmaily Scheme, Homes for Ukraine Scheme, Pairing Scheme, Homelessness, Council Tax, Schools and more . . .
The Council’s strategy for a Formal Review of the Local Plan The four recommendations of the Report on the Local Plan were approved at the Full Council meeting last week. These included a Formal Review of the Local Plan which is scheduled for 2024. In the meanwhile we will continue to look at the evidence base more . . .
No need for change when parking in Guildford town centre You can now use the RingGo parking app to pay for on-street parking in central Guildford as well as our car parks. From Wednesday 1 December, convenience fees will be reduced from 19p to 10p for all RingGo transactions. Lead Councillor for Environment, Cllr James Steel said: “We are really pleased that we can make paying for parking easier and cheaper in our town centre. By using RingGo you won’t need to run around looking for change, find pay and display machines or worry about losing your parking ticket more . . .
No one needs to go cold or hungry this winter Grants are now available to help vulnerable families and individuals in our borough who are struggling to afford food, clothing, fuel and other essentials. The Department of Work and Pensions new Housing Support Fund aims to ease short-term financial pressures this winter. £421million has been given to local authorities, £5.3million of which has been given to Surrey County Council more . . .
Christmas has arrived in Guildford Councillors Joss Bigmore, Leader of the Council, and Julia McShane, Deputy Leader of the Council said: “Christmas has arrived in Guildford! On Wednesday we lit our beautiful Christmas lights to mark the start of the festive season for our residents, businesses and visitors to enjoy.
“We understand many of you are missing the traditional large scale light switch-on event. This year we’re spreading celebrations throughout the season not because we are bah humbug but because the event had grown from a small gathering to a sizeable event held in a very tight space attended by 7,000 people more . . .
Cash boost for Guildford businesses to help the borough recover from effects of the pandemic. Businesses in Guildford can apply for up to £10,000 to help them recover from the economic challenges of Covid-19. A pot of £400,000 is available to businesses in Guildford from 8 November 2021 until 31 December 2021 through the Covid Business Development Grant Scheme, part of the Additional Restrictions Grant allocation more . . .
Half Term activities at our Lakeside Fun Day and The Hive Looking for some fresh air and fun for the children over half term? Join our Community Wellbeing Team for a day of outdoor activities at Lakeside Nature Reserve, Ash Vale on Thursday 28 October from 10am – 2pm. Our dedicated Community Wellbeing Team have put together a host of fun for all the family and would love for people to join them for an action-packed day more . . .
Celebrate Christmas in Guildford This year we are planning a series of events and activities in our town centre to bring Christmas fun for everyone to enjoy.
We are putting the health and safety of local people first and supporting their safe return to our high street. Guildford’s Christmas season will be filled with lots of celebrations rather than the traditional Christmas light switch on event more . . .
Ash Road Bridge – upcoming investigation work
From Friday 13 August for approximately two weeks
I am writing to let you know about ground investigation work that will be taking place in fields to the north and south of the railway line near Ash Station more . . .
What happens with my recycling? We now recycle 58.8% of our rubbish, putting us 19th out of 341 boroughs and districts in England. More than 82% of the total waste collected across Surrey is recycled in the UK. A large proportion of what is not recycled in the UK goes to destinations in Europe for use in the production of new products. Lead Councillor for Environment, Cllr James Steel, said: “Brexit, the international shipping container more . . .
Discover Guildford – Family Fun for Summer: Take the whole family on a fantastic adventure through our historic town centre and beautiful countryside during the summer holidays with Guildford’s free Secret Stories mobile app. Created in partnership with Ordnance Survey, the app brings the town to life with fascinating facts on our unique ‘Guildford’s Golden Nuggets’ interactive walking tour more . . .
G Live to reopen as entertainment venue: Our entertainment venue G Live will close as a vaccination centre and will not be offering booked vaccination appointments or walk-ins after 23 July, as it prepares to host live performances again for the first time since the start of the pandemic more . . .
Targeted support for our businesses: Coronavirus continues to be the biggest challenge for 91% of businesses across our borough. But, in this year’s business survey, businesses told us about lots of other opportunities they would like support with. Lead Councillor for Economy, Cllr John Redpath said: “The future for Guildford is bright and, thanks to the 140 businesses who took part in our business survey more . . .
Save Money On Your Energy Bills With Solar Together Surrey: Residents can save money and help tackle climate change with other members of our community by installing solar panels on their homes with the new Solar Together Surrey scheme. The initiative, run by Surrey County Council and supported by ushelps our borough’s homeowners feel confident that they are paying the right price for high-quality solar panels more . . .
Transform family walks into mini adventures: Join us on a fantastic family adventure through our historic town centre and beautiful countryside with Guildford’s new Secret Stories mobile app. Created in partnership with Ordnance Survey, the app brings the town to life with fascinating facts on our unique ‘Guildford’s Golden Nuggets’ interactive walking tour more . . .
Symptom-Free Tests Available At Millmead House: Residents, workers and students in Surrey who do not have Coronavirus (Covid-19) symptoms are now able to get a free test at our Millmead House offices in Guildford town centre. The centre will offer a walk-in lateral flow test from Monday to Friday between 8am and 7.30pm as part of Surrey County Council’s community testing programme more . . .
Fun, free play sessions returning to the borough: Children under 12 can enjoy fun, free and exciting play sessions across our borough again with the return of our after-school Playrangers sessions on Tuesday 20 April. Our Playrangers sessions are led by experienced play workers who encourage children to play freely outdoors. The sessions let the children choose what they want to do but our Playrangers bring plenty of ideas, equipment and games to make them even more enjoyable more . . .
Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh 1921 – 2021: A hand-written letter of condolence on behalf of the borough of Guildford from the Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Richard Billington has been sent to Her Majesty The Queen: “I am writing to you as Mayor of Guildford on behalf of the people of the Borough of Guildford in Surrey to offer my sincere condolences to You and other members of the Royal Family following the death of His Royal Highness The Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh more . . .
Financial Help for Business during Covid-19: The government announced a range of help for businesses to be delivered by Guildford Borough Council. The funding will be made available as grants for small local businesses. The link to apply is: https://www.guildford.gov.uk/article/23827/Financial-Help-for-Business-during-Covid-19 and applications must be made by Monday 22nd February 2021 more . . .
COVID-19 Impact: Borough Businesses have your say Do you own or run a business in Guildford? Local business owners can now let us know how we can help provide further support and advice by completing our quick and simple online survey. The survey can be found at www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/GuildfordBusinessSurvey/ and is open until Friday 29 January 2021 more . . .
Budget Challenges, Residents to help set priorities The Executive considered the latest outline budget for 2021-22 and business planning to help with the Council’s medium-term plans up to 2025 at a meeting last night (24 November). Savings will continue and residents will be asked for their views on where to prioritise spending more . . .
Supporting our borough’s children and families over half term Cllr Julia McShane, Lead Councillor for Community says: “This half term we are working in partnership with Foodwise TLC, a charity delivering food provision, training and education to local communities, to help prevent local children going hungry by providing meals to local families who need them. If you need any support or help, please get in touch with your school who will help you get referred more . . .
Mayor of Guildford update Leader of the Council, Cllr Joss Bigmore says “Thank you for your kind thoughts for our Mayor of Guildford, Cllr Richard Billington over the past few weeks. He has been in hospital and is now undergoing treatment to remove a tumour. Understandably he will be stepping back from his Mayoral and Ward duties and our Deputy Mayor, Cllr Marsha Moseley will take over all civic engagements more . . .
Hear more about our plans for Weyside Urban Village: 1,500 homes to be built on brownfield land We have two more online public exhibitions in October and November which anyone can attend to find out more about our proposed exciting riverside development in Guildford. These follow our successful online events in July and August, where we welcomed over 200 residents, over three quarters of whom supported our plans. The 41‐hectare Weyside Urban Village project more . . .
A new Leader announced Cllr Joss Bigmore was voted the new Leader of the Council at a meeting of Full Council last night. The change of leadership was part of a planned new co-operative approach to running the Council as it moves into the second year since the borough elections in 2019. The new co-operative approach to running the Council was announced at a meeting of Full Council in May 2020, but the actual handover was delayed by response required to the Covid-19 pandemic more . . .
Video Game Industry Grows and Guildford Games Festival is back
Guildford Games Festival, supported by the UK’s games industry trade body UKIE and age
ratings advisory body AskAboutGames and sponsored by us and Enterprise M3 LEP, goes
global in 2020 as it returns for a second year on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 November to
mark the industry’s continued success in the borough more . . .
New guidance to ensure low carbon, sustainable development in Guildford borough New housing developments in the borough will have lower carbon emissions, be more sustainable and better able to meet the challenge of climate change after new guidance was adopted at a meeting of the Executive last night. This detailed guidance is called the Climate Change, Sustainable Design, Construction and Energy Supplementary Planning Document
(SPD) more . . .
Celebrating 75th anniversary of VJ Day in Guildford
VJ (Victory over Japan) Day, 15 August 1945 marked the day on which Japan surrendered bringing an end to nearly six years of war in the far east – a triumphant day following a war that cost millions of lives and saw unimaginable suffering with thousands held as prisoners of war more . . .
Update on the borough’s leisure facilities
Lead Councillor for the Environment, Cllr James Steel provides an update on the borough’s leisure facilities: “We are sorry to confirm that although the government now allows outdoor pools to open we are unable to open our paddling pool at Stoke Park this summer. We know how much you love our borough’s popular free attraction and we have not taken this decision lightly more . . .
More Parking Permits and Electric Vehicle Charging Points for Town Centre
Town Centre residents will have their car parking spaces reserved seven days a week as part of changes to the town’s Parking Zones to be implemented after the end of the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic more . . .
Hear more about our plans for Weyside Urban Village:1,500 homes to be built on brownfield land
We have four online public exhibitions in July and August which anyone can attend to find out more about our proposed riverside development in Guildford. The 41-hectare Weyside Urban Village project, which will deliver approximately 1,500 homes on brownfield land, is an ambitious plan more . . .
Strong message to those who toss litter in Guildford
Despite polite requests and many reminders littering in Guildford remains a growing problem. Today the Council launches a blunt anti-littering campaign with a strong message appealing for people to ‘take litter home’ more . . .
New Opening Hours For Council’s Community Helpline
The Community Helpline set-up by Guildford Borough Council to help residents in need of support during the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic will change its opening hours from Monday 6 July. The Helpline (01483 444400) has made over 21,000 calls since its launch on 6 April, to assist vulnerable residents with food parcels more . . .
Leader Statement – Our High Street Springs Back to Life After Lockdown
As we reach the end of a milestone week with restrictions easing and our non-essential retail shops opening their doors for the first time in three months – I’d like to thank you all again for your continued support and for playing you part by following the government guidance more . . .
Covid impact means difficult decisions to be made
The impact of the current Coronavirus (Covid-19) outbreak has put significant financial pressure on the Council as it works hard to provide new and maintain existing frontline services for the borough. A £15 million emergency fund was agreed by Full Council in May in anticipation and next week on 23 June more . . .
New Procurement Strategy set to achieve over £1.2million savings annually from 2022
The Council has agreed to adopt a new procurement strategy 2020-23, to enable the Council to achieve significant savings while also procuring goods, works and services more effectively. The strategy encourages sustainable and proportionate economic growth in the borough to help provide the prosperity and employment more . . .
Town Centre Car Parks Remain Free in June
All Council-owned car parks in Guildford town centre will remain free of charge throughout June as some shops and businesses start to re-open in line with new government guidance.
We are working in collaboration with our Business Improvement District, Experience
Guildford, and town centre partners to reassure residents once businesses more . . .
Surrey’s First Dedicated Swift Tower Installed On Shalford Common
Surrey’s first dedicated swift nesting tower has been erected on Shalford Common to protect one of Britain’s most remarkable and endangered bird species who frequently choose to nest there. This stunning and very special piece of public art is the result of a collaboration project between more . . .
Future Of Guildford Park Car Park To Be Decided
The future of Guildford Park Car Park will be reviewed after proposals were approved by the Council’s Executive on Tuesday (26 May). Previously-approved plans had considered a combination of public parking spaces and social housing more . . .
More water bottle refilling stations installed across the borough
Six new bottle refilling stations will be installed in Guildford during May and June as part of the Council’s commitment to eliminating single-use plastic containers. The stations are being installed between 21 May and 12 June more . . .
More Free Family Fun and Fundraising at Guildford Live II
28 May 6.30pm – Live on Facebook
We are proud to support the borough’s second free family friendly variety performance, dedicated to our NHS staff and keyworkers, by Guildford Fringe Theatre which takes place on Thursday 28 May at 6.30pm live on Facebook more . . .
Coronavirus (Covid-19) Leader Statement: Thank you to our residents
Following the government’s change to their Coronavirus guidance this week, Leader of the Council, Cllr Caroline Reeves made the following statement:
‘We are now nearly two months into staying home to stay safe in order to protect our brilliant NHS workers and save lives more . . .