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ISSUE 78
SUMMER 2019
ily
n a fam
W ket for
i
i
tic
nn e
A W imbledon
at NewTheatre
Outdoor creative
fun for children
Improving air quality
2
We asked: The Leader of
Merton Council,
In February, an independent research company asked 1,000 Councillor
adults and 250 young people for their views on the borough,
Merton Council and local services for our regular residents’ survey. Stephen
Alambritis,
writes for My Merton
“You said” It is great to see families enjoying the abundance of
green spaces in Merton at this time of year. This issue
of My Merton is packed with ideas for making the most
l The vast majority of residents are satisfied with the area they of our parks during the summer months, including
live in (89%). walking, jogging or running the Merton Mile; having
l Merton is a great place for families and the survey showed that a zero-waste picnic in the park or being inspired by the
residents feel safe in their local area, with 98% feeling safe during Wimbledon Championships to pick up a tennis racket on
the day and 84% after dark. one of our courts. Whatever outdoor activity you choose
l Overall satisfaction with the council has increased slightly to during the school summer holidays – cycling, football,
70%, which is 10% above national figures. golf or splashing around in one of our paddling pools –
l There was an increase in satisfaction with education provision, family fun is guaranteed.
libraries, leisure and sports facilities. Merton is a great place for families, and this is borne
l There was a significant increase in the rating of street lighting, out by the findings of our bi-annual residents’ survey,
but other services have seen a decrease, in particular refuse carried out earlier this year, which emphasised
collection, recycling and street cleaning, which, at the time, had respondents’ high opinion of the borough’s parks and
been disrupted by service changes. open spaces. There were big improvements in how
l Respondents told us the thing which most needs improving schools, libraries and leisure facilities, including the new
in Merton is the need for housing to be affordable. state-of-the-art leisure centre in Morden Park, were rated.
We did:
The survey also showed a real demand for homes that
people in the borough can afford. We hear this loud and
clear, and I’m working hard with the council’s officers
and partners to find ways to provide more affordable
new homes for families and to help existing tenants
l We are already acting on some of the issues raised. Over a third by bringing in a landlord register so that private renters
of the homes on the Plough Lane stadium site will be affordable. have more security.
Our ambitious plans to regenerate Morden town centre, Our residents’ survey is important to me. Although
Ravensbury, High Path and Eastfields include affordable homes. I’m regularly out and about meeting residents and my
l The residents’ survey was carried out soon after the largest door is always open to them, the survey enables me to
service change that the council has made in recent times – seek the views of even more people and for respondents
to the recycling and rubbish collection service. This affected to influence the future direction of the council. It’s
almost all households in the borough. increasingly challenging to run the council when, every
l Since the survey, recycling rates have continued to increase. year, reductions in government grant mean we have to
l We are working closely with Veolia to drive up the performance agree to cut public services, so it’s great to hear from
of the collection service and improve street cleaning along with our residents – the people who know the borough best –
the three other councils in the South London Waste Partnership. about what we’re doing well and what priorities we
need to focus on. I’m pleased to see that you share our
What you can do to help: determination for Merton to be a great place for families,
as they make the most of our parks and open spaces
l Reduce your waste and recycle more. Please ensure you this summer.
separate your recycling and rubbish into the correct containers
for collection. For information and to report fly-tipping visit:
merton.gov.uk/recycling
l Volunteer to be a Street Champion by emailing
environmental.development@merton.gov.uk
mymerton
3
Issue 78 • Summer 2019
merton.gov.uk
contact us
merton.gov.uk
Registering to vote:
020 8274 4901
contents Community
Council tax: 020 8274 4904 News 4
Waste collection services: The latest news from
020 8274 4902 around the borough
Benefits advice:
020 8545 4178
Parking: 020 8545 4661
Features
Libraries: 020 8545 3783 Working life 12
Anti-social behaviour Acacia Centre Playground
hotline: 020 8274 4907 manager Julie Moore
Switchboard: 020 8274 4901
Culture 13
My Merton is published by the FilmMerton coming
London Borough of Merton and
is distributed free to 80,000 to a venue near you
households in the borough four
times a year. Environment 14
Editorial
Improving air quality
communications@merton.gov.uk
merton.gov.uk/mymerton Enforcement 16
Targeting fly-tippers
What’s on listings:
Fill in the online events form at: and litterers
merton.gov.uk/events
Health 19
15
Adverts
For all advertising Support for Merton’s
enquiries, contact young parents
communications@merton.gov.uk The joy of
The London Borough of Merton lifelong learning Community safety 22
does not accept responsibility Tackling knife
for or endorse any products or New courses for adults with learning difficulties crime together
services offered by advertisers.
My Merton costs only
What’s on 25
12p a copy to produce Your guide to all that’s going
on in Merton this summer
When you have finished with
this magazine please recycle it.
My Merton is printed on fully recyclable paper,
which is accredited by the PEFC Council
Don’t forget to
(Programme for the Endorsement of Forest visit our website!
Certification schemes). This edition of
My Merton is distributed from 1 July 2019. merton.gov.uk/mymerton
You can also follow us on:
My Merton is:
Distributed by
London Letterbox
020 8940 0666
10 20 www.facebook.com/mertoncouncil
www.londonletterbox.co.uk Have fun A zero-waste
Designed by
Domino4 01932 988677
and get fit summer @Merton_Council
andrew@domino4.co.uk
www.domino4.co.uk
Printed by
Cliffe Enterprise Print Whenever you see this logo that means www.flickr.com/mertoncouncil
Partnership there’s a volunteering opportunity to get
0845 601 9478
ben@cliffe-enterprise.com
involved in
www.cliffe-enterprise.com
www.youtube.com/mertoncouncil
news
4
Keeping Merton informed
Picnic celebration to Free pedal
welcome a new park power for
Families attended the
Picnic in the Park event to
new park for Merton residents.
Morley Park, located between
Park Road in West Wimbledon,
was officially opened on
children
celebrate the opening of a Copse Hill and Cottenham Saturday 4 May. Merton Council is
Attractions at the new park offering free cycling
include a meadow and courses for children
woodlands, which provide great aged four to 18 during
walking opportunities, in the summer holidays.
addition to a pavilion and Bikeability cycle training
playing fields, which are to be is available for complete
leased to Ursuline High School. beginners, improvers
The 12.5 acre parkland and those who wish to
was created by developer cycle on the road. Training
Berkeley Homes as part of the is provided across the
requirements of the planning borough by the council’s
consent for the Wimbledon accredited cycle trainers.
Hill Park scheme. find out more
Merton Council has now To snap up a place on
taken custodianship of the park these popular courses, visit
to ensure all residents can www.cyclinginstructor.com
Expansion of grants enjoy the attractions for many
decades to come.
for vulnerable residents
An expanded grants programme has been launched to fund Record crowds attended event
voluntary and community groups which help support Merton
residents, including the most vulnerable in our communities. to discover Merton’s heritage
Merton Council is one of only a handful of boroughs not to cut More than 2,000 people
funding to this sector, which makes such a vital contribution to flocked to the biggest ever
residents’ lives. The funding programme for 2019–22 has five Merton Heritage Discovery Day
separate pots, which are: to find out more about the
l information and advice services borough’s colourful past.
l support services for charities and community groups The event on Saturday 11
l wellbeing services to improve health May was staged as part of the
l carers’ services 25th anniversary celebrations
l Healthwatch Merton for Merton Heritage Centre.
As run in a business-like way, the council worked closely The annual showcase for the
with voluntary sector groups to design the funding borough’s history featured a
programme to ensure the needs of residents are met. larger-than-ever heritage Mitcham Fair, 1932
The council has commissioned a total of 15 strategic partners marketplace with 30 stalls from
from April 2019. As part of its information and advice offer it heritage, arts, community and storyteller Alim Kamara and
is funding Citizens Advice Merton and Lambeth, South West environmental groups from a talk on Tooting Nurseries
London Law Centres and Springfield Advice and Law Centre. across Merton. and the Daffodil King, given
It is also funding three new strategic partners which are the The borough’s history was by Geoff Simmons. Bruce
Association for the Polish Family to provide support for also brought alive with open air Robertson and Digital Drama
Polish and Eastern European communities; Commonside cinema screenings, storytelling, gave a presentation on World
Trust, which is to host a legal advice outreach service with art workshops led by Made in War II and the Home Front
South West London Law Centres and a new Merton Deaf Merton and Wandle Industrial and Rifat Wahhab spoke about
Advice Service, run by deafPLUS, providing social welfare Museum and a host of the fascinating history of
advice to deaf and hard of hearing residents. fun children’s activities. Jamdani sari making.
find out more The programme included find out more
For the full list of strategic partners visit: merton.gov.uk African tales by award-winning merton.gov.uk/heritage
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Keeping Merton informed
New Return of
mayor the peregrine
falcons
Wimbledon Park Councillor Janice Howard The popular Merton
was elected to serve as Mayor of Merton peregrine falcons returned
at a special Mayor Making ceremony on to the roof of the civic
Wednesday 15 May. centre for the fourth year
The new Mayor took over the role from in a row.
Lower Morden ward representative, Councillor Once again, the pair
Mary Curtin, who served as Mayor of Merton successfully reared their
for the past year. Councillor Howard, who was family. Peregrine watchers
elected to Merton Council in 2010, has lived have been thrilled to see the
in the borough since 1990. couple’s four eggs hatch
into white fluffy chicks and
grow into fledgling falcons.
Catch the action on the
Windrush Compensation Scheme special webcam.
find out more
The Government has launched grandchildren, are eligible to l close family members of merton.gov.uk/falcons
a scheme to compensate claim compensation. It is eligible claimants where
residents who have suffered also open to people of all there has been a significant
from not having the nationalities who arrived in the impact on their life or where
documentation to prove their UK before 31 December 1988 there is evidence of certain
right to live in the UK. who are settled here. direct financial costs.
Anyone who came to the UK Claims can be made for the For information on how
from the Caribbean or any loss of jobs, education, homes to make a claim, call the
other Commonwealth country or health services as well as for Freephone Windrush Helpline
before 1 January 1973, and in detention and deportation. on 0800 678 1925 on weekdays
certain cases their children and The scheme is also open to: between 9am and 5pm.
l the estates of those who are find out more
now deceased but who would www.gov.uk/guidance/
have otherwise been eligible windrush-compensation-scheme
Litter to claim compensation.
heroes
Street cleaning crews,
councillors and residents Four year plan for
children and young people
joined forces to help give
the borough a spring clean
and remind everyone to bin
their litter responsibly. Young residents have been Partnership have been and parents of children using
Merton Council held a litter playing a key role in setting extensively consulted on the Early Years services.
picking event in Pollards priorities for work to plan to make sure their views The importance of
Hill on Saturday 6 April as continually improve the lives of and concerns are reflected. connectedness to family,
part of the Great British children and young people A total of 1,287 pupils gave friends and the local
Spring Clean campaign. across Merton. Merton Council responses to a survey on the community and its vital role in
The council backed the is working with partner four-year plan, which was sent wellbeing has emerged as a
national campaign to organisations to refresh the out to secondary schools across new priority. This will be added
encourage everyone to be Merton Children and Young the borough. Consultation has to the following five priorities:
a litter hero and do their bit People’s Plan, which will set also taken place with children Being Healthy, Staying Safe,
to keep streets, parks and out priorities for their work up and young people with special Enjoying and Achieving,
open spaces looking until 2023. Children, families educational needs and disabilities Getting Involved, Having a Say
beautiful and litter free. and the Children’s Trust as well as primary aged children and Becoming Independent.
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Keeping Merton informed
Young stars shine at leisure
centre opening
Teenage diving star Eden Cheng Morden resident eight-year-old Lara
helped ensure Morden Leisure Centre showcased her talents and love of the
was officially opened in style. The new centre by interviewing both Eden
inspirational 16-year-old sensationally Cheng and Leader of Merton Council,
clinched a gold medal in the 10 metre Councillor Stephen Alambritis during
women’s synchro with partner, the afternoon.
Lois Toulson, at the European The centre boasts a 25m six-lane
Championships in Glasgow last year. pool, another pool with a moveable
An afternoon bursting with free floor for aqua aerobics, toddler and
family fun was held at the sparkling diving classes, in addition to a
new community facility in the heart 100-station fitness studio with the
of picturesque Morden Park. Eden latest kit. Business-like Merton
Cheng joined outgoing Merton Council invested in the new centre
Mayor Councillor Mary Curtin for the as a replacement for the ageing
unveiling of the plaque on Saturday 1960s-built Morden Park Pool, which
30 March. Attractions at the event had become energy inefficient and
included a giant inflatable game as expensive to maintain. The former
well as a range of free taster sessions pool building has been demolished find out more
in a host of sports. and the site will be landscaped. www.better.org.uk/morden
New Cabinet Members
welcomed
Councillor Laxmi Attawar has
been appointed the Cabinet
Member for Women and
Equalities and Councillor
Eleanor Stringer has taken on Councillor Councillor
the role of Cabinet Member for Eleanor Laxmi
Schools and Adult Education. Stringer Attawar
Councillor Attawar is well l Cabinet Member for
Queen honours
known in the local community Adult Social Care, Health
as a great advocate for equality, and the Environment –
councillor
and Councillor Stringer has Councillor Tobin Byers
worked on projects in hundreds l Cabinet Member for
of schools across the country, Commerce, Leisure and
Councillor David Williams, who has served Merton Council for with a particular focus on raising Culture – Councillor
42 years, was awarded the MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours standards for disadvantaged Caroline Cooper-Marbiah
List. The councillor, first elected to the council aged just 22, children. l Cabinet Member for
was recognised for his political service in local government. The following cabinet roles Voluntary Sector Partnerships
Cllr Williams was the leader of Merton Council from 2006 until were also confirmed by the and Community Safety –
2010 and served as mayor for the year 2012/3. Leader of the Council, Councillor Councillor Edith
Stephen Alambritis in May: Macauley MBE
l Deputy Leader and Cabinet l Cabinet Member for
Liberal Democrat Jenifer Gould was Member for Finance – Regeneration, Housing
elected as a Cannon Hill ward councillor Councillor Mark Allison and Transport –
in a by-election held on 20 June. l Cabinet Member for Councillor Martin Whelton
Turnout was 42%. Children’s Services – find out more
Councillor Kelly Braund merton.gov.uk/cabinet
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7
Keeping Merton informed
Merton goes Merton’s
Blooming first zero
Merton over the rainbow waste store
Once again, green-fingered Council leader Councillor Stephen A grocery shop on a
residents can showcase Alambritis (third left) and Cabinet Member mission to reduce plastic
for Women and Equalities, Councillor
their gardening skills and Laxmi Attawar (second left) taking part in waste opened its doors in
scoop an award. the launch of the rainbow crossing Merton Abbey Mills.
Merton in Bloom is Zéro aims to give
back for 2019 and awards residents the chance to
are up for grabs in a range buy the products they love
of categories, from best without the burden of lots
hanging basket or front of unnecessary packaging
garden to best community to dispose of. Wimbledon
space or pub. couple Alicia and Josh
There is even a category Bulbeck set up the shop to
for the best child’s drawing help reduce the negative
of a garden. The closing impact on the environment
date for entries is Friday from excessive single-use
12 July, with judging due to packaging waste.
take place in July.
find out more A stunning rainbow has the creativity of the LGBT+
merton.gov.uk/mertoninbloom landed in Wimbledon to community, challenge
celebrate the town’s inclusivity, prejudice and campaign for
welcome its first LGBT+ bar, equal rights for members
and support this year’s Pride both at home and abroad.
in London events. Cabinet Member for Women
Merton Council has and Equalities, Councillor Laxmi
installed a rainbow crossing Attawar said: “Merton is one of
in Wimbledon Broadway by the most welcoming and safest
the recently opened CMYK bar. boroughs in London and this The shop offers a good
The multi-coloured crossing has high profile colourful artwork is selection of store cupboard
been created in the design of the a great reminder to us all, that as essentials including cereals,
rainbow flag – which has been a community we value diversity.” flour, pasta, rice, beans,
adopted, across the globe, as a The Pride in London festival nuts, dried fruits, chocolate,
symbol to celebrate the LGBT+ culminates in a parade in central oils and honey. Zéro is at
community and its diversity. London on Saturday 7 July. Unit 7, The Apprentice
The month long Pride in find out more Shop, 14 Watermill Way,
London event aims to celebrate mertonlgbtforum.org.uk London SW19 2RD.
find out more
www.thezeroshop.com
Tennis club nets prestigious award
A tennis club in Merton Park, IPlay30 group for young adults
popular with families, has with significant learning
netted a prestigious award. disabilities and a tennis
Cranleigh Tennis and Social academy to hone the skills
Club has been awarded Surrey of future tennis stars.
Tennis Club of the Year by The club, which is currently
the national Lawn Tennis celebrating its 90th anniversary
Association. The award was with a host of events open to
in recognition of the club’s all, has seen its membership
sterling work to develop tennis shoot up in the past five years
opportunities for people of all to more than 450 members.
ages and abilities. More than find out more
220 youngsters regularly play www.cranleightennis.co.uk
at the club, which runs a
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Keeping Merton informed
Latest
Club celebrates its
consultation
on Heathrow
landmark 80th anniversary
A club which has been bringing
expansion residents together for a wide
Heathrow Airport range of sporting activities and
has opened a public social events for eight decades
consultation on their plans celebrated its milestone in
for expanding the airport, great style.
with a new runway being The vibrant Central Ward
built over the M25. This Residents and Sports Club in
would see an increase in Ashridge Way, Morden, is now
flights over Merton. welcoming new members from
To have your say please all backgrounds and ages to
go to www.aec.heathrow join. The club, which is one
consultation.com and attend of the longest running clubs
the public meeting at for residents in Merton, golf, fishing and pigeon racing, celebrate its landmark, the
Everyday Church in opened its doors in June 1939. the venue has also provided a club held a host of events last
Wimbledon on 17 August Long-serving member Ron well-loved social hub with a month, including a children’s
from 10am to 4pm. Luke, now in his mid 90s, said: host of entertainment events fun day and a music night.
find out more “All the staff are extremely throughout the year. find out more
Call Heathrow Community friendly. I have very happy The club also caters for those Anyone interested in joining can
Relations team on 0800 307 memories of time spent at important events in residents’ drop into the club, which is located
7996 with any questions. the club.” lives such as christenings, between 55 and 57 Ashridge Way
In addition to promoting birthday parties, weddings, in Morden or call 020 8542 5814.
a range of sports from darts to anniversaries and funerals. To www.central-ward.co.uk
Merton children raise the
roof at Royal Albert Hall Community orchestra
now in its second year
Colliers Wood Community Orchestra celebrated its first year
of music-making with a well-attended open rehearsal and
drinks reception.
The instrumental collective welcomes musicians of levels,
from beginners to the most advanced, and its repertoire is
a mixture of popular, classical and contemporary pieces.
The community group was formed to cater particularly
to the lapsed musician who possibly has an abandoned
instrument in the loft. Musicians playing less traditional
orchestra instruments such as saxophones, tenor or baritone
horns and euphoniums, are also welcomed to join the group.
Regular rehearsals are currently held at the Community
Centre on the first and third Tuesday of the month and at
Guardian Centre on alternate Wednesday evenings, as well
A staggering 1,500 young singers from across Merton performed as on some Saturdays.
at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall. Catch the musicians this summer at the Singlegate Fair
Children from 19 Merton schools performed in a mass choir as on Saturday 13 July and at the Summer Showstoppers concert
part of the Liquid History concert. The Merton Music Foundation, with Colliers Wood Chorus at Christ Church, Colliers Wood,
which stages the Music for Life concerts at the central London on Sunday 28 July.
venue every two years, is now planning the event for 2021, which find out more
is to mark its 30th anniversary. contact collywoodorchestra@gmail.com
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Keeping Merton informed
Gearing up for RideLondon Once again Merton residents 9.15am with the last around
can enjoy ringside seats at one 5pm. There is also set to be a
of the world’s greatest cycling real party atmosphere with a
races. Thousands of amateur host of street entertainments
and professional cyclists are to on offer.
take part in the Prudential The council will be working to
RideLondon event on Sunday ensure residents and businesses
4 August. Last year around enjoy the high profile event.
25,000 riders took part in the find out more
100 mile Surrey to London race For information visit
with hundreds more taking part tfl.gov.uk/ridelondon and
in shorter routes. www.prudentialridelondon.co.uk
Both Wimbledon and Raynes
Park are top spots for spectators
to cheer on the riders, many
of whom are raising cash for Sensory
charities. Wimbledon is at the
90 mile mark and the first spaces for
riders are due to appear at
children
Themed sensory areas will
be created in Merton’s
On your marks, get set, GO for new track libraries for children with
special educational needs
News of grant funding for a and disabilities (SEND).
running track has been Merton Council’s seven
welcomed by children at an award winning libraries will
outstanding special school. each have its own theme for
A £16,125 grant has been the special areas such as
awarded to Merton Council, mystical forests, space and
by the London Marathon water. Specialist books and
Charitable Trust, towards an activity programme of
the 200 metre track planned events will also be on offer.
for Cricket Green School The project, which is the
in Mitcham. special educational needs and Lower Green West, said first of its kind in the UK, is
Work on the running track, the wider community, is due the running track will have being funded by a £94,826
which is to offer high quality, to begin over the summer. ‘a major impact on health Arts Council England grant,
accessible athletics and fitness Celia Dawson, the and well-being and which the council
opportunities for children with headteacher of the school in community cohesion’. successfully bid for.
Merton Council’s Cabinet
Member for Commerce,
Leisure and Culture,
Clamping down on rogue landlords Councillor Caroline
Cooper-Marbiah said: “Our
New legal powers are set to rented homes and increased Merton Council’s Cabinet library staff and volunteers
help Merton Council take anti-social behaviour or crime. Member for Regeneration, will also be working with
enforcement action against The council has the powers Housing and Transport, our partners and schools to
private sector landlords who to prosecute landlords or Councillor Martin Whelton break down barriers and
are letting out unsuitable or impose a fine for breaches of said: “We are using powers dispel misconceptions of
dangerous properties. the Housing Act 2004. Around available to us to clamp down special educational needs
The council’s Cabinet has a quarter of housing in Merton on rogue landlords and use and disabilities, reduce
agreed to look into developing is privately rented and in some enforcement powers on those isolation and open new
a selective licencing scheme for parts of the borough more than who are not meeting their legal doors of opportunity for
landlords in areas where there a third of homes are rented by obligations to their tenants.” children and their families.”
are high numbers of privately private landlords.
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Have fun and get fit
Have fun and get fit
in Merton this summer
Warm sunny weather is the perfect encouragement to get out and get active.
Whether you’re taking up jogging or just fancy a summer stroll, Merton’s
100 parks and gardens provide the stunning backdrop that makes exercise
hard to resist.
S
o, if you and your family have
been promising to make more
of the great outdoors, read our
top ideas for enjoying the
summertime in Merton.
Follow the.
Merton Mile.
You can run, jog or walk it, but however
you travel, a daily mile is a great way to
improve your fitness and general well- Tamworth
Recreation
being. To give you a bit of encouragement, Ground
a new, signposted one-mile route around
Figges Marsh was launched in the spring.
The route is marked out by arrows, with
signs along the way featuring handy fitness Splashing around. ideas with a difference, the centre has
tips. It’s suitable for all ages and abilities, Cool off in the summer heat by visiting several options from kiwi canoe parties to
so why not challenge yourself to complete Merton’s brilliant paddling pools, which a build-your-own-raft challenge.
the Merton Mile, if not every day, then as are all free to use. The interactive play
often as you get the chance. You can let us pools at Wimbledon Park and Tamworth
know how you get on by posting on social Recreation Ground, Mitcham, are great Open-air fitnesss.
media using #MertonMile. fun and there are six other neighbourhood Merton has 10 well-equipped outdoor
pools too. The paddling pools are all gyms across the borough, which are perfect
Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, open from 21 July until 2 September – for a fresh air workout – or adding some
Health and the Environment Councillor apart from Wimbledon Park, which is strength and stamina training to your run.
Tobin Byers at
the Merton Mile open already. Whether you want to increase your fitness,
or start a gentle exercise programme, the
gyms are fun and free to use.
Wet and wild.
Wimbledon Park Watersports and Outdoor Kayaking at Wimbledon
Park Watersports
Centre is the perfect spot to try sailing,
kayaking, archery, climbing, orienteering
and many more activities, on water and
dry land. There’s a mix of taster sessions
and longer courses for adults and children,
all led by fully-trained staff in a friendly
environment. For example, the multi-
watersports camp gives children aged
eight to 16 the chance to try a range of
activities in water and on land. If you can
sail already, there are pay and play sessions
for adults. And if you’re looking for party
Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough •feature
11
Have fun and get fit
Park
John Innes
Active kids.
Don’t be bored during the school summer
holidays – Merton Active Kids sessions
have plenty of options from golf or football
to arts and crafts. Open to ages five+ Council leader
(depending on activity). Councillor Stephen
Alambritis joins a
walking football
Anyone for tennis?. training session
If you’re feeling inspired by Wimbledon,
there are plenty of opportunities to
learn tennis or improve your game. Active all ages.
We have more than 60 courts in parks If you love playing football, but no longer
across the borough. Most are currently have the knees for it, Age UK Merton in
operating a pay and play system, however a partnership with AFC Wimbledon and
new online system to book courts is being Canons Leisure Centre offer walking football
rolled out over the summer. For more sessions. Or try a low-impact water workout
information on courts and booking at Morden Leisure Centre or the Canons.
arrangements visit:
tennisinmerton.com
Party in. Mud and more.
the park. This year sees the return of Pretty Muddy to Morden Park on 31 August in aid
Eastern Electrics will once of Cancer Research. This muddy obstacle course offers everyone, regardless of
again be returning to ability, the chance to climb, crawl and slide their way towards beating cancer.
Morden Park with two days Choose from a 5k or 10k event – open to anyone aged 13+.
of music and DJ sets from Or book now for Rough Runner, coming up in October. This Gladiators-style
world-class acts including obstacle course has five, 10 and 15k routes, as well as a kids’ event.
MK, Skream, Hannah Wants,
Orbital DJ Set Matt Jam Lamont
and Goldie. Catch the festival on
Saturday 3 and Sunday Find out more
4 August. For watersports, paddling pools, tennis and
Merton Active Kids visit merton.gov.uk/leisure
Eastern Electrics easternelectrics.com
Pretty Muddy – raceforlife.cancerresearchuk.org
or for Rough Runner – roughrunner.com
For walking football visit ageuk.org.uk/merton
For Morden Leisure Centre sessions
better.org.uk/morden-leisure-centre
Online booking links for tennis courts tennisinmerton.com
• Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade boroughworking life
12
A supporting borough
Providing a creative
space for youngsters
Encouraging young people to get active is a key priority for Merton
Council. My Merton caught up with Julie Moore, the manager at the
Acacia Adventure Playground to find out how the stunning space gives
young people the chance to enjoy creative, spontaneous outdoor play.
J
ulie Moore is the Her team’s challenge is keeping things According to Julie, encouraging children
manager for the fresh: “We’re always shaking things up. to be active starts with giving them space to
Acacia Adventure We don’t want the environment to enjoy the outdoors: “Parents worry a lot
Playground in become boring, so we listen to the about the weather or getting dirty. I’d say
Mitcham, which is an children’s ideas and make sure that we put aside those adult worries and just allow
amazing space where five to can see them through.” children to be free and have fun. The more
16-year-olds are free to explore. The Activities vary with the seasons, plus you encourage them, the more they’ll want
playground is open after school, Saturdays there are trips away such as to play laser to be outside, not indoors with a computer.”
and during the holidays … and entry is free! tag, see a panto or visit the beach. Julie Parents can check out the playground on
Julie said: “It’s just a great outdoor space. said: “During the summer we always have 7 August, National Play Day; the one day of
Children have access to the elements, to a messy play day with activities like flour the year when adults are allowed on site.
play in water or get dirty. We have really tall or water fights. Everyone gets messy and The playground is also available for hire for
structures, a large sandpit, swings, and arts the place is trashed, but the kids absolutely birthday parties or school groups.
and craft indoors. It’s a child-only space love it.
where they are free to get on with the “We allow children to use tools, with the find out more
things they want to do – not what adults staff, to help build structures – they are The Acacia Adventure Playground is at
think they should be doing.” currently building a look-out tower among 230 Acacia Road, Mitcham Eastfields. For full
For Julie, the best bit of the job is its the trees. We also have a lovely garden area opening times visit merton.gov.uk/play-areas
great variety: “Every day is different and where they grow vegetables, which they
working with young people is great.” pick and eat in their sandwiches.”
© Paul Tanner Photography
Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough •feature
13
Lights, camera, action...
coming to a
venue near you
With pop-up film seasons curated by celebrities and multiple film makers
shooting around the borough, there are some great opportunities for
residents of all ages to get involved with Merton’s celebration of the
cinema. Read on for the latest on the borough-wide cultural project which
scooped one of the Mayor of London’s Cultural Impact Awards.
F
ilmMerton – the borough’s exciting celebration of cinema is In production
well underway, with plenty of opportunities to get involved FilmMerton has also commissioned four new films, two by
this summer and beyond. aspiring local filmmakers aged 18 to 25 and two by established
The project is the result of a successful bid for one of names. In each case the remit is to shoot an original short film
the Mayor of London’s coveted Cultural Impact Awards in 2017. within the borough – keep a look out for filming in your area.
The award has led to a series of pop-up film seasons, pulled together
by community groups and high profile curators, as well as four new
films currently in production and a virtual reality festival happening
in Mitcham next year.
Film seasons
People from across the borough came
forward with ideas for 12 film seasons
about subjects that matter to them. So far,
local groups have presented their curated
seasons on topics as diverse as food on
film and the impact of gangs and peer
Merton-based filmmakers left to right: Matvi Khosho,
pressure on young people. Charlie Strank, Daniel Bramiah and Rosie Gaunt-Mathieson
There’ve been screenings about inspirational women and the
hidden histories of black and minority ethnic communities, as well
as a season from Merton’s Dementia Alliance. Coming up
Highlights coming up include a season in Mitcham barbershops, The third element of the project, Mitcham’s Virtual Reality Film
culminating in a showing of Black Panther, and one inspired by Festival, will take place in March 2020. Whether you’re a fan of
K-pop, curated by the Korean British Cultural Exchange. There’ll also VR or just curious, there will be plenty of opportunities to immerse
be films demonstrating cooperation and understanding in the wake yourself in this extraordinary art form – watch this space.
of divisions over Brexit.
Jo Brand is among 12 guest curators – she’ll be making her find out more
selection later in the year. Award-winning comedian Francesca For full details of all the up-and-coming seasons and how to get involved
Martinez has chosen her pick of politically challenging films as a volunteer, visit mertonculture.org or follow @filmmerton_ on twitter.
including I, Daniel Blake. Artist Alison Lapper will put forward
a season showing disability in a positive light.
• Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade boroughfeature
14
Tackling air pollution
No idling in Merton’s work
to improve kids’ air quality
Tackling air pollution around schools to protect children’s health is a top
priority for Merton Council. My Merton takes a look at how everyone can
help improve air quality by just switching off car engines outside schools
or choosing different ways to travel.
Councillor Eleanor Stringer the Cabinet Member
for Schools and Adult Education (left) and
Councillor Tobin Byers the Cabinet Member for
Adult Social Care, Health and the Environment
Four things
you can do
to minimise
air pollution
1 Turn your engine off if your car is
stationary, especially outside schools
or at level crossings.
Clean air for all
Air pollution is a big issue for London,
with almost 10,000 deaths a year attributed
as well as moves to ban traffic from
entrances or look at the way pupils travel
to and from school.
2 Choose active travel wherever
you can – walking or cycling to
your destination is better for your
to poor air quality across the capital. health and could significantly reduce
Merton Council is working on a number Anti-idling campaign pollution levels.
of schemes with residents to help improve The council is encouraging drivers to turn
air quality around schools.
Measuring pollution
off their engines while waiting or in traffic,
especially outside schools. Events around
the borough have seen parent volunteers
3 If you’re replacing your car,
consider an electric vehicle or
joining a car club instead.
With their developing lungs, children trained to talk to drivers about why idling is
are most vulnerable to pollution, so the
council has committed to monitoring air
quality around all Merton schools.
an issue. Drivers have responded positively
to the campaign – in many cases idling
was something they’d never thought about.
4 Driving habits can have an impact
on exhaust emissions – avoid
revving your engine, speeding or
This monitoring helps us identify ‘No idling’ signs have also been installed driving so you need to accelerate or
which schools to target with measures to across the borough, with many more brake suddenly. Having your car
mitigate and tackle poor air quality. These locations to come, warning about new serviced regularly and keeping tyres
could include planting schemes to create council powers to fine drivers who leave at the right pressure can help too.
green screens, which soak up pollution, their engines running unnecessarily.
Avoid lighting bonfires, which are a significant cause
of pollution during the summer. Sign up for the council’s garden
waste collections instead. South London councils are working
together to promote air quality under the banner Love Clean Air.
Find out more and get tips on other ways to cut air pollution at lovecleanair.org.
Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough •feature
15
Supporting lifelong learning for all
The joy of lifelong learning
is for everyone in Merton
My Merton finds out how a new programme of courses is bringing the joy
of gaining new skills to adults across Merton who have learning difficulties.
F
or Leon, who is 44, and has a safe environment with good transport it has broadened her understanding of
autism, a cookery course at links and drop-off points. art and given a focus to her own work.
Colliers Wood’s Leyton Road The aim is to help learners develop the In particular, the paintings of LS Lowry
Centre has given him the skills to live independently and find definitely resonated. “I really enjoyed
confidence to plan, shop for and cook his employment, where appropriate, and looking at Lowry and I bought a book
own meals. He said: “I am happy to be enhance participants’ wellbeing. Everyone about his work to read at home,” she said.
able to make a meal for myself now. joining the programme receives an
I like shopping for food.” assessment to help them find the courses Enrol now
Leon is one of a number of Merton that are right for them, with courses Courses for people with learning
residents, with learning difficulties, available for all levels and abilities. difficulties and disabilities are just some
who have discovered new interests, made Subjects on offer include maths, English of many opportunities provided by
friends and grown in confidence, thanks and computing. There are sessions in Merton’s Adult Learning Service. Every
to a new programme of courses delivered active leisure and the chance to learn year 3,500 residents enrol on courses,
by Merton’s Adult Learning Service, which about the wider world too. covering a wide variety of topics. If you’d
cover everything from art and craft to Danielle, who is 35 and has autism, has like to develop a new skill, find out more
understanding democracy. Courses are been following the arts and crafts course at at merton.gov.uk/adultlearning. Most courses
delivered by expert training providers on Pollards Hill Library. The course involves will take a summer break, restarting in
behalf of the council. The venues are studying the work of artists as a starting September. Enrolment on new courses
centres across Merton, chosen to provide point for practical projects. For Danielle is already underway.
• Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade boroughfeature
16
Targeting fly-tippers and litterers
Enforcement in action
Clearing up litter and fly-tipping costs Merton Council millions of pounds
a year, which is cash that could be spent on other services. Residents share
the council’s concerns over the actions of the thoughtless or criminal
few whose littering or dumping rubbish impact on the quality of life for
everyone. But with your help, we’re fighting back using fines and court
action against those responsible.
Vehicles suspected of being used in fly-tipping will be
seized by Merton Council and crushed if the owners do
not claim them
Prosecution Illegal encampments
We have prosecuted 11 people, who each received The council is tackling illegal encampments, and the
fines of £1,300 and a criminal record, for large-scale fly-tipping they attract, with a borough-wide injunction
fly-tipping. The prosecutions followed covert operations banning unauthorised camping on parks and open
as part of the council’s We Are Watching You campaign, spaces, including Mitcham Common.
aimed at cracking down on enviro-crime. In recent years, such encampments have affected
Using hidden cameras, and following resident residents’ quality of life, with the cost of clean-up
tip-offs, our officers observed the perpetrators dumping operations running to many thousands of pounds.
furniture and general domestic waste – all of which The injunction means that the council can request
could have been disposed of free of charge at the anyone occupying land unlawfully to leave, and seize
council’s recycling centre. We also seized vehicles vehicles if necessary. Breaching the injunction could
suspected of being used for fly-tipping offences. also mean a large fine or prison sentence.
Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough •feature
17
Targeting fly-tippers and litterers
Be wary
If you’ve been renovating your home this summer, be cautious about anyone offering to remove
waste for you, which could be fly-tipped. Should this happen, you may be held responsible and face
Fly-tippers
prosecution. Always use registered waste carriers to remove any rubbish – ask where your rubbish
is going and for the operator’s licence number and a waste transfer note.
we are
watching Fixed penalty fines
y u In the year to April 2019, 7,000 people received £150 fines for dropping litter – including cigarette
butts. During the same period, 33 fines, of £400 each, were issued for incidents of fly-tipping.
Around two thirds of all fly-tips are household waste, and
residents who dump it face prosecution. So, remember, the
following are examples of those which YOU could be fined for:
1 Leaving bags of 2 Leaving waste next 3 Discarding waste
household rubbish to a neighbourhood on the grass verge
by a wheelie bin or recycling bank
public litter bins
Find out more... Dispose of bulky waste for free at
the council’s recycling centre on Garth Road, Morden
or book a bulky waste collection for a charge.
To report fly-tipping, visit merton.gov.uk/fly-tipping.
• Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade boroughCOMPETITION
Win a family
ticket to Annie
at New Wimbledon Theatre To win a family ticket to Annie, visit
merton.gov.uk/mymerton to enter and answer
Lesley Joseph leads the cast in the acclaimed the following question.
revival of the musical set in 1930s New York.
Famed for her role in television sitcom Which hit sitcom featured Lesley Joseph
Birds of a Feather, the actress is to star as as nosy neighbour Dorien?
orphanage boss Miss Hannigan. Brave young a) Liver Birds
Annie is forced to live a life of misery at the b) Birds of a Feather
orphanage. However, her luck changes when c) Thunderbirds
she is chosen to spend a fairytale Christmas Closing date for entries: Wednesday 31 July 2019.
with a billionaire, but spiteful Miss Hannigan
Terms and conditions:
plans to spoil everything. Packed with great The tickets are non-transferable. There are no cash alternatives, travel or
accommodation included in the prize. The competition is for a family ticket
songs including It’s The Hard-Knock Life – (four tickets) to see Annie at New Wimbledon Theatre, valid on Monday
this is a show not to be missed! 11 November 2019.
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19
Supporting families
Support for Merton’s
young parents
Merton Council’s innovative new project to support young parents is
successfully helping more than 50 families. My Merton takes a closer
look at the project, which aims to ensure all families can make the most
of the opportunities our borough has to offer.
H
aving a baby can be challenging, and a young parents group – numbers Teenage pregnancy rates fall
whatever your age, but young have grown to 50 families. Meanwhile, the rate of teenage pregnancy
people who become parents Intensive support from the nursing team in Merton has been falling to an all-time
before they are 20-years-old can lasts for the first two years of the child’s low. Data from the Office of National
face particular challenges. While many life, during which parents receive housing, Statistics confirms that Merton’s under-18
young parents cope brilliantly, some do health and benefits advice. There are conception rate is now below national and
struggle. However, a Merton Council project low-cost outings – to city farms, for London levels. This achievement puts the
is proving to be successful in helping young example – and access to the charity Little borough within the top 10 of all local
parents get the support they need. Village, which provides free baby clothes authorities in England for progress on this
The project uses nurses and health and toys. There’s also bespoke support for complex public health issue.
visitors to put young parents in touch with parents of children with complex needs and The change follows years of partnership
Merton’s existing network of children’s for homeless mums. work, including well-publicised young
centres and linked sites. The centres play Parents receive information about free people’s contraceptive and sexual health
a vital role in helping parents through the early education and childcare entitlements services. These, coupled with quality
difficult early years, with support around too, which can help them back into study, relationships and sex education have
health, child development, feeding, training and employment. been equipping young people with the
education and other issues. The results have been inspiring. One confidence to make positive life choices.
Previously, few under-20s attended the young parent said: “I have come into my Rising educational achievement in Merton
centres. But with encouragement from own as a young mum – there has been lots has also contributed.
health visitors and targeted sessions – of different information about feeding, find out more There’s information
including playgroups, baby massage sleeping, teething and more.” for young people on a range of services and
issues at www.gettingiton.org.uk.
• Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade boroughmy environment
20
10
Latest round-up
A zero-waste summer
Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy eating al fresco, but do spare a thought for the
impact you are having on the planet. My Merton gives some top tips on how to pack up
a zero-waste picnic and ways to always make sure your outdoor eating treat does not
become a fly-tipping eyesore for others.
Pack a
waste-free
picnic
Everyone loves a picnic and supermarkets are happy to encourage the
trend with plenty of pre-packed food items on the summer shelves.
Whether it’s ready-made salads, snacks or chopped fruit, buying a picnic
is convenient, but it’s a costly option that increases your waste footprint.
• Instead, plan your picnic ahead, making use of food in your fridge
– add mayonnaise to leftovers for sandwich fillings, use olives from a
jar for a pasta salad or slice up a pineapple at a fraction of the cost
of pre-prepared fruit.
• Pack it in reusable containers or recycled plastic tubs. Look out too for
new reusable products to wrap and protect your food, in place of cling
film, and invest in lightweight melamine picnicware to use every time.
• It’s often tempting to over cater for a picnic, so avoid food waste by
thinking realistically about how much food you really need. If you do
have leftovers, take them home for disposal in your food waste caddy.
• Dispose of any rubbish properly. If nearby bins are full to bursting,
please take your litter home. Never leave bags of rubbish beside
bins – it could land you with a fine.
• Get into the swing of taking your rubbish home and put it in the
correct bins to ensure it can be recycled.
Bottle it
When temperatures soar, it is important to keep hydrated. However, we
have all seen recently, in high profile television shows and campaigns,
the devastating impact that so much plastic consumption is having
on wildlife and our environment. Could 2019 be the summer
when you ditch single-use plastic water bottles?
It’s not easy to remember your water bottle every time, so if
you do buy a drink whilst out, make sure you recycle the bottle.
Around 35.8 million plastic bottles are used every day in the
UK but only 19.8 million are currently recycled. Please take
your bottles home and recycle them in your green box –
or communal bin, if you live in a flat.
Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough •my environment
21
Latest round-up
The recycling journey
of your picnic waste
If you’ve ever questioned the point of recycling, it’s worth finding out more about the journey your everyday items, including your picnic waste,
take once they’ve been collected from your home.
Plastic
bottles, tubs, pots
and trays, which you place in
your Merton recycling box go to
Cardboard one of three special plants where they
boxes are shredded are sorted partly by hand and partly by
and mixed with water to machine, then by colour and type using
make a pulp. The pulp is lasers. Plastic is then shredded, melted
cleaned up and pressed down and reformed into pellets, which
through rollers to create Drinks cans are used to make new and useful
a fresh sheet of too are sorted into items – from fleeces and football
cardboard. different metals, using tops to toys and even
magnets, before being crushed picnic benches.
down and melted into ingots in a
furnace. These ingots are used to
make many new products –
from more tins and cans
to car parts.
Food waste
including teabags, veg
REMEMBER:
peelings and banana skins are
Used paper plates
taken to a processing plant known
cannot be recycled
as an anaerobic digester, where
as they are contaminated
they’re broken down to create a
by food. Paper napkins,
fertiliser for crops and a bio gas
like tissues, cannot
used to generate electricity,
be recycled.
which is fed back into the
National Grid.
Find out more For information about Merton waste and recycling services visit
merton.gov.uk/recycling
Merton Local Plan
Merton Council is busy drawing up its new Local Plan – with help environment to protecting heritage buildings and from encouraging
from residents. The Local Plan is the document which informs all future jobs to combatting climate change. As such, decisions we make
planning decisions made in the borough – when the council’s about the plan now will last for generations.
planning committee needs to decide whether to approve a proposal, With a shortage of affordable homes such a big issue for London,
this is the document it refers to for guidance. housing is an important focus of the plan, which looks at where we
The plan covers a range of topics that affect us all every day – should be building homes, and how we make them sustainable.
from travel and transport to economic growth and the future of the We have already been consulting on the plan, and you can read
high street. Its impact stretches from the appearance of the the things residents have been saying at merton.gov.uk/localplan.
• Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade borough • Merton – proud to be a Fairtrade boroughYou can also read
