Local gong.

MBE for Geoffrey Meehan

For public service.

To rebuild or not to...

From Anon

6/2008/0784

Application for :- Full Planning Permission Smallscale Major Development.Mr J PeiserDemolish existing vacant nursing home and erect a four storey block of 9 two bed flats and 1 three bed flat with basement parking together with associated access and parking.Rempstone Road (6-Westbury House), Swanage.Grid references E.402979 N.78971 Parish. SwanageCase officer: Sylvia Leonard See:

http://www.purbeck.gov.uk/planning/PlanAppDisp.asp?RecNum=34103

"Cutting Household Bills"

Does anybody have any comments on the best and cheapest Broadband providers in Swanage?

Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 6:27 PM

Recycling Centre

Seems like the campiagners have won the day. I understand the County Council cabinet has supported proposals to develop the Prospect farm site (behind Victoria Avenue industrial estate) as an alternative to the Panorama Road tip (or having to drive to Wareham). BUT I believe the proposal now has to go to the County Council's 'Asset committee" to determine how they pay for it. So battle not totally won yet perhaps..Mike Hadley

Swanage Apathy

Posted by Anon
I wondered why Swanage wasso quiet on Sunday with very little trade in the shops and cafes until I read the Echo report of the thousands who had turned up for the arrival of Father Christmas in Wareham that day. What a contrast to the non event in Swanage on Saturday in the previous weekend.As there is a direct relationship between the number of people in town and business takings you would think that our local businesses would get together and organise things but not a bit of it. Why? When you talk to them there always seem to be lots of reasons for doing nothing and insurmountalbe obstacles to doing anything themselves. Why do we not have a weekend of Christmas related activities so that the accommodation providers getpart of the action for example. But why, oh whyare they so averse to paying something towards the costs of increasing their turnover?

New Subject, please.

If you want to raise a new topic, post your comment in this section — just click first on Comments below, then type in post a comment (top right of the next window). Can you choose a title for your post, please? Sometimes it's hard to work out what a comment is about and what the subject is. A new heading will soon be set up, allowing others to see and add their own comments. It seems it's sometimes easier to click on 'Post anonymously' than to open an account in your name - you can always add your name to your message. We try to keep posts civilized.

Police State?

I see that new labour has acheived its aim in arresting a tory MP a toatl police state.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 1:31

SWRDA

Reports of my death have been exaggerated...

South West Regional Development Agency is no more.

Not quite.

"The assembly’s role is to be taken over by a combination of the South West Regional Development Agency and a new board made up of leaders of the region’s main councils.

This board is being called the South West Strategic Leaders’ Forum".

As we always seem to be slagging off our Councils - is this a good idea?



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 9:00 AM

REGULAR LIVE MUSIC

The weekend before last the Robin Bibi Band from London played two superb gigs in Swanage.
Saturday night at the Grand Hotel was an acoustic evening, and you could get a curry and a pint for only £7.50.
Sunday afternoon at Bar Seven was full-on electric and absolutely stunning, with beer, cider and lager all available for only £2 a pint.
Admission to both gigs was free.
The Grand Hotel will have The Refrains plus myself on New Year's Eve, plus two more Live Music events on Saturday 17 and Saturday 24 January.
Bar Seven (new name for the old Victoria Club aka Shades Bar in the high street) will be having Live Music every Sunday afternoon from 5-8pm, with me at the keyboards plus Guests.
On Sunday 30 November my Guest will be Chris Collins (vocals, guitar) from Southampton. On Sunday 7 December Hugh Budden on harmonica.
All Welcome!
Further information from www.swanage-blues.org or phone me on 01929 422338.

Council website

It seems that loads of the documents on the Swanage Council website have vanished. http://www.swanage.gov.uk/

Do they have something to hide or did Alan Leesons review go bad so all the bits about him have been removed?



Posted by Swanage Local to swanageview at 8:22 PM

Thieves about in Swanage

Just like to say a friend had her wages stolen, from a shop in swanage this week, so please be aware that pick pockest are about. Allegedly not with an english accent.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 2:14 PM

Schools

http://tinyurl.com/6je97k

Local schooling revamp is back on the agenda.

We could open a 'book' on this.

Mount Scar and St Marks to move to the Middle School, would be my bet.

I worry how it'll effect St Georges and Corfe primarys.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 6:45 AM

Mowlem Theatre

This is by way of an open letter to the management of the Mowlem Theatre and Arts Centre.

The Marine Theatre, a tiny establishment in Lyme Regis, is advertising for a creative director who will be "someone with good experience in programming and marketing events, and able to make a significant contribution to the strategic direction of a venue which has developed hugely in the past two years."

Its part time, salary pro rate of £25k. So why haven't we got such a post here so we would be spared the embarressment of "film to be announced" three times a month and the ghastly tribute bands when there is no film. And before you say "no money" ask why the Marine Theatre has some.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 11:31 PM

Swanage Forum?

Now Swanage Forum has thrown in the towel and migrated to facebook, would it be a good idea to relaunch this blog as the home of information and debate about our lovely Town?



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 12:06 PM

Library hours reduced

Mon 10 - 18:30
Tues Closed
Wed 9:30 - 17:00
Thurs Young people only 17 - 19:00
Fri 9:30 - 17:00
Sat 9:30 - 16:00
The member of staff that I spoke to didn't seem best pleased.

Join in music for fun!

Everybody enjoys making music and now is the time to show people what you can do and have a lot of fun as well!I have been asked to research places to play around this area, and find people who are interested in taking part in Open Mic and Jam Sessions.Interested? Please send an email to s.darrington@btopenworld.com stating what instrument(s) you play and the type of music you're interested in.Thank you.
Steve Darrington

Novembver 14th and 15th

Together we can make this grow...Take a look at your diary for November 14, 15 and 16 please, and let me know if there is anything going on that weekend I can add to these two events:Saturday 15 November at the Grand Hotel, Swanage THE ROBIN BIBI BAND (unplugged) 8.30pm Sunday 16 November at Bar Seven, 1 High St, Swanage (was Victoria Club aka Shades Bar) THE ROBIN BIBI BAND (electric experience) 6pmBy bringing Robin and his band down for two gigs and giving them accommodation, it makes the trip from London viable. Let me know if there’s anything else going on in Swanage that weekend, and I will publicise whatever complements my ‘core’ attraction! By giving potential visitors the opportunity to make a weekend of it, this could be the start of something big (again!)More info about Robin Bibi below, and please send this email on to anybody local you think might be able to contribute to what’s going on that weekend. Together we can make Swanage an even more attractive place for people to come to out of season!Best Wishes,
Steve Darrington.
s.darrington@btopenworld.com

New Subject

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Sandbanks Ferry

Anonymous said...

23-10
I just bumped into a friend who works on the ferry and he says that theyve ryun nt problems and it could be off for another week.

The ferry website still says 17-11

Purbeck Housing Trust

0 out of 3

That's how high Purbeck Housing Trust have just been rated.

Just think, PDC one of whose main aims is to provide affordable housing are against the Lychett Minster development and even if they weren't, then this 0 out of 3 body would be in charge of the affordable bit!

Swanage Online Forum

Probably get accused of cross posting, but what the hey!

"www.virtual-swanage.co.uk forums had a lively debate going about SBVHP. But suddenly the forums have been removed.
A case of censorship"?

Sure is.

Since

http://www.swanageforum.co.uk/

had its re-vamp I've steered clear of posting, cuz it usually ended in a scrap. But I've still been lurking!

New Subject

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Swanage Blues Festival

May I thank everybody in Swanage who helped make last weekend's blues festival such a pleasurable experience for all the visitors?

I received many compliments from festival fans about the great service they received in the pubs, restaurants, shops and where they were staying.

The phrase that was used over and over again about the town and people was "warm and friendly".

Thank you everybody for continuing to make the blues festivals so successful!

Dates for next year are 6-8 March and 2-4 October 2009. If anybody wants to help in any way, please phone 01929 422338, email s.darrington@btopenworld.com or drop a line to me c/o the Tourist Information Centre, Shore Road, Swanage BH19 1LB. Thank you.

Steve Darrington
www.stevedarrington.com

The Good Food Guide 2009

Once again the restaurants in the UK have been reviewed Which?
You have to travel 20+ miles from Swanage to find a restaurant which gets even the entry level of 1 out of 10: “capable cooking, with simple food combinations and clear flavours”.
The whole of Dorset gets 9 mentions. There are twice as many in Mayfair alone. Cornwall gets 28. That’s a good reason to favour Cornwall for your holidays if you are a rich Londoner.

Swanage Rotary Club Awards

Swanage & Purbeck Rotary Club have recognised service to the community by three Swanage men.

Mick Beck - for his efforts in supporting international appeals and work with the town's stroke club; Neil Hardy - for his contribution to Swanage lifeboat; and Steve Darrington - for his work in making Swanage more accessible for wheelchair users.

Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 5:26 PM

Planners all on holiday?

What is going on at PDC planning office? You are not able to discuss an application with a planning officer until October (because they say they have a backlog). Well I would observe there appear far less applications being made this summer than usual. Planning applications which are supposed to be over in 8 weeks are taking 16 weeks. Some planning applications online details on the PDC website have not been updated since May.

A treat for the ears

Saturday 13th September, 8.30pm
at the Grand Hotel, Burlington Road, Swanage
Admission Free
A wonderful evening with International Guitarist ROLAND CHADWICK

Roland Chadwick is a classically trained guitarist who has played with Lesley Garrett, Sir George Martin, Michel Legrand, Saurang Orchestra, John Renbourn (Pentangle), Alan Glen (The Yardbirds), Papa George, Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, English Chamber Orchestra, Britten Sinfonia, the Boston Symphony Orchestra see www.rolandchadwick.com

He is making a rare appearance here and will be playing a wide range of music in his own inimitable style, from folk and blues to the classics and occasionally bursting into song!
This is top-class musical entertainment of the highest order. If you can't make it, please tell somebody else who can. A treat for the ears!

Steve Darrington
PS I will be making a small guest appearance

Further info: Steve Darrington 01929 422338 or email s.darrington@btopenworld.com

New Subject

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Bay View Caravan Park

Hey Mike

what's this about the Audit Commission - some may say finally - threatening legal action against jolly old STC?

I understand there was a special, or is it extrordinary, meeting?

Are you sworn to secrecy?

Swanage Blues Festivals

Thanks to everybody who has asked about the future of the blues festivals.

I have on-going problems with my old computer and have been unable to get everything sorted as I usually do.

Yes, the next one is taking place on 3, 4, 5 October, see
http://www.bluesroots.org



Posted by Steve Darrington to swanageview at 7:57 AM

Swanage Blues Festival 3,4,5 October

Thanks to everybody who has asked about the future of the blues festivals.I have on-going problems with my old computer and have been unable to get everything sorted as I usually do. Yes, the next one is taking place on 3, 4, 5 October, see

http://www.bluesroots.org/

7:57 AM Steve Darrington

Unique Marketing Point?

"Swanage, Dorset, is a small British seaside town which has, like most British seaside towns seen better days, but in Swanage they make a feature of their past."

http://tiny.cc/2sAzl

posted at 15:35 on 19/08/08



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 3:35 PM

Grammar School

Wat a novel idea.

Use a closed school as a school!

http://tinyurl.com/5lg3pw



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 8:20 AM

Sticklands to close.

Sticklands the butcher will apparantly close on August 23rd. How sad.

New Festival?

Thanks to everybody who's asked about the new Local Food and World Music Festival proposed for June 2009, and the new website Swanage Life that will be supporting it.

Plans for both festival and website are temporarily on hold while I raise funds for the existing blues festivals in March and October.

Since each existing blues festival brings £136,000 extra business into town - twice a year and out-of-season - I feel I should work on the survival of these festivals at the moment, rather than embark on new projects.



Posted by Steve Darrington to swanageview at 12:44 PM

Housing Scrap Begins

Housing scrap begins!

http://www.purbeckhousingaction.co.uk/forum/topic.aspx?t=83

(Purbeck District Council who are supposed to provide/enable affordable housing seem to be leading the fight against government plans to build some).

The Mowlem

Does anyone know what happened with the tender for the restaurant and bar?

New Subject

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Party time!

"Police are to increase weekend patrols of Burlington Chine in Swanage, Dorset, after reports of anti-social behaviour and criminal damage at night-time."

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/dorset/7523264.stm



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 5:02 PM

Swanage and the South of France

What's the South of France got that Swanage hasn't?



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 5:36 AM

Swanage promotion?

Advertising uses many forms of communication to persuade people to buy particular goods and services. In Swanage itself, there is the Swanage Advertiser, Purbeck Gazette, Dorset Echo, local Radio and TV, the carnival programme, websites, flyers, inserts, posters... the list goes on.
But they are all designed to persuade people who are already in the area.

Who is advertising Swanage itself? and what forms of advertising are being used to attract people into the town?



Posted by The Wonderer to swanageview at 8:56 AM

Dunshay Manor

Well, who'd a thought.

"Actress loses £2.3m estate claim"

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/7505724.stm

I only met Mary a couple of times, but she was fun!



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 10:04 PM

New Subject

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Tourism

What slice of the tourist market is Swanage actually aiming at?

Does it coincide with the people it actually attracts?

Does it coincide with what people think it should be?



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 10:49 AM

Local Food, World Music

A new festival for Swanage is being planned - "Local Food, World Music" will take place on 5, 6, 7 June 2009. Further information, as it becomes known, will be available on www.swanagelife.com



Posted by steve darrington to swanageview at 4:53 AM

Clavell Tower: Kimmeridge

Interesting story here about moving the Clavell Tower at Kimmeridge:

http://tinyurl.com/56hq5y

or

http://www.building.co.uk/story.asp?sectioncode=583&storycode=3116930&c=0

Durlston clears lottert hurdle

Durlston Project Update: July 2008

Success!
Dorset County Council and a wide range of project partners are celebrating the news that the Heritage Lottery Fund has confirmed £3.1m of funding towards the £5.5m Durlston Project. Being successful with a Heritage Lottery bid of this scale and complexity is a major achievement, and the culmination of four years careful planning and hard work.

After a huge effort by Friends of Durlston, the Jurassic Coast Trust and the Project Team, the £2.4m ‘match – funding’ target is also looking attainable. This funding has come from a wide range of individual donations and fundraising initiatives as well as major business partnerships and significant contributions from charitable trusts and foundations. Despite the many successes, it is essential that we continue our fundraising efforts to ensure all the aspects of the Durlston Project are achieved.

A key element of the Project is the restoration of Durlston Castle; repairing the fabric of the building and replacing inappropriate 20th century additions. Access to and within the building will be greatly enhanced and exciting new displays will highlight the ever-changing face of Durlston. The present Park Centre will become a new Learning Centre for more formal education and family activities. This work will ensure that Durlston provides a world class facility for visitors to the Jurassic Coast and the newly designated Durlston National Nature Reserve.

New, high quality catering and retail facilities will also be developed, with greater opportunities for functions, special events and temporary exhibitions. Durlston’s importance as a major tourism asset will grow, with economic and social benefits for the local area and wider region.

There is still a large amount of preparatory work to finalise, including detailed technical design, contract tendering a wide range of project management requirements, so it is unlikely that work ‘on the ground’ will start before 2009 with completion expected by the end of 2010.

The good news from the Heritage Lottery fund comes on top of the recent opening of the Durlston National Nature Reserve – an accolade which highlights Dorset County Council’s continuing commitment to conserving the site’s rich natural heritage. The Civic Trust has also awarded Green Flag status to Durlston for the 3rd year in succession.

Now that we have been given the ‘green light’ there are even more opportunities to get involved in the Durlston Project. If you would like to help please speak to a Ranger at the Visitor Centre, visit www.durlston.co.uk or telephone 01929 424443.


Hamish Murray (Head Ranger)[posted by Mike Hadley]

Bedroom Tax

http://tinyurl.com/4nubvp

Off to the High Court.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 5:

Swanage Life

Swanage Life

I am currently preparing a new website for Swanage called Swanage Life covering topics such as:

What’s On in Swanage, Special Offers from Shops, Restaurants, Hotels, Things To Do, Alternative Swanage, A Guide to Night Life, Local Services and Trades, Companies That Deliver Goods, Cleaners For Your Holiday Home, What’s Hot and What’s Not, Festivals, Concerts, Children’s Activities, Where To Stay, Where To Eat, Where To Drink, Where To Hire Disabled Equipment, Street Maps and Important Telephone Numbers, Who Makes The Best Coffee, Opinions and Personal Histories, Why People Live Here and much more!

OK Everybody! Here's a chance for you!

* Tell me what you think should be covered under 'much more'.

So why am I doing this? Well, the last Swanage Blues Festival brought in less money from local businesses than ever before, and I can't keep the festivals going without financial backing. So the idea is that this new website will make me some dosh and keep the festivals afloat. Who knows? if there's enough coming in, I might even be able to do more events!

I am willing to update the website on a daily basis, but I can't go round chasing for information, so it's up to you!

Steve Darrington

Email: s.darrington@btopenworld.com
Tel: 01929 422338
Post: Steve Darrington, c/o T I C, Shore Rd, Swanage, Dorset BH19 1LB



Posted by Steve Darrington to swanageview at 7:31 PM

Blyton Museum?

Can I ask you to post the following:

It may be common knowledge to locals, but I heard for the first time that the Council is proposing that the Tourist Information Office on Shore Road should be moved elsewhere (Townhall?) and that the premises should be converted into a money-making Museum of Enid Blyton. I realize that Enid has her partisans, but for me and most of my contemporaries, she is a creature of bourgeois nostalgia, a dated and rather pathetic cultural icon destined for the dustbin of sentimental literature. Why should Enid's sterile mementoes displace one of the few efficient tourist services we have in the best possible location for its purpose? The Information office in its present locale serves a multitude of functions. It is warm and welcoming, a center for lost children and possessions, a first-aid and emergency center, a housing bureau and valuable aid to those providing accommodation, a poster of tides and current events, a provider of maps and pamphlets and histories and Jurassic propaganda - I am sure the list could be extended. It is virtually certain that most of these useful functions would go abegging if the office were moved to the town hall in what is now a back street of the town, almost as inaccessible to cars as the beachfront.
The best possible alternative locale for a money-losing museum that I can imagine is the Mowlem, which is already an Enid Blyton Museum without knowing it, and has always been a bastion of contempt for tourism as its palsied trustees sleep the sleep of the self-righteous. Save the tourist office - say I!
Ian Lowson

Windsurf event 21st/22nd JUne

South-west Windusrfing are coming to Swanage for a two-day event,of freestyle and racing, launching from main beach near the Mowlem.

Swanage Blues & Roots Festival on 3, 4 and 5 October 2008

Support for the new festival?

Last October I organised a new event, the first Swanage Blues & Roots Festival. It was an undoubted success, attracting even more people to the town than the usual March blues festivals.

I will be attempting the second Swanage Blues & Roots Festival on 3, 4 and 5 October 2008. If you wish to take part or can assist in any way, please let me know.

Individuals can spread the word, give out business card-size flyers or put up a poster.
Businesses can advertise, put up a poster, display business card-size flyers, make a donation or have a window display over the weekend.

If you own or run a suitable venue, you might want to have some live music. Even if you do not have an entertainments licence, temporary ones can be obtained for only £21 total for up to 4 days - I have details.

If you are interested, or know somebody who could be, please contact me.

This festival will be the 10th one I've organised. These events are held out of season so as to bring a considerable amount of money to the town when Swanage most needs it.

They take up nearly all my time and I fund them out of my own money, which is not a lot because I am in a wheelchair and unable to tour as a professional musician any more.

I can only make this new October event work with your encouragement and support. Please help me to ensure that the festivals continue. Thank you.

Steve Darrington
Tel: 01929 422338
Website: www.bluesroots.org
Email: s.darrington@btopenworld.com

Bedroom Tax

You may be interested in this article in today's Telegraph.

Purbeck are the only Authority to charge £1000 per bedroom in planning applications!

I had assumed that all authorities made the same charges!

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/2119620/Homeowners-face-and1631%2C000-tax-on-extensions.html

Posted by wickedwitch to swanageview at 2:02 PM

Recycling Centre: DCC Questionnaire

With Dorset County Council still planning to close down and not replace the Household Recycling Centre at Swanage, requiring people to drive to Wareham, this may be a good moment to compete the Council's questionnaire about Household recycling. Closing date is 4 July 2008, so please spread the word - quickly! See questionnaire at:

http://tinyurl.com/3z74h3

This is DCC's introduction:

Household recycling centre survey
Dorset County Council is interested in receiving your views on various activities at the household recycling centres and is conducting a public consultation exercise

In 2006 DCC conducted a household recycling centre (HRC) customer satisfaction survey and produced an action plan of the main areas for improvement at the HRC's. As part of that action plan DCC needs to conduct further consultation on our current opening hours, our sales re-use area and vehicle and waste restrictions.

We want to get a better idea of what our customers actually want in terms of opening hours of the facilities, the provision of the sales re-use areas and the restrictions policy (van ban, trailer size and rubble restrictions). We want to put our customers at the heart of what we do, by contributing to this review you can help shape the services.

Please note that when considering the issues on the survey that if we expand our services (for example extend our opening hours or allow any vans to access the HRC's) the cost for the service may increase which may result in an increase in your council tax bill.

Please click on the link (above) to go to the survey.

The closing date for completion of the survey is 4 July 2008.

Restaurants

Mark Hix, ex chef director of Caprice Holdings, the owner of London restaurants the Ivy, Le Caprice and Scott’s is opening a restaurant in Lyme Regis.

Gary Rhodes, he of the hair, is opening 2 in newly refurbed hotels in Christchurch.

I'm going to the Tratt next Fri!

Will I be missing anything!



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 6:40 PM

Town Partnership (public meeting) 11 June

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Agenda

Town Hall, Swanage

on Wednesday, 11th June 2008
at 10.00 a.m.

1. Apologies
2. Appointment of Chairman
3. Appointment of Vice Chairman
4. Appointment of Honorary Secretary
5. Appointment of Honorary Treasurer
6. Report from the Chairman
(Including Community Plan Update)
7. Report from the Honorary Treasurer
8. Statement of Audited Accounts
9. Minutes of the Meeting held 26th February 2008
10. Matters Arising from the Minutes
11. General Project Updates and Priorities
12. Any Other Matters
13. Date of Next Meeting

NOTE: THIS IS A PUBLIC MEETING

You can download the original report from:
http://www.mcti.org.uk/uploads/Swanage%20CSP.doc

The Mowlem

Hi I am from out of town and am thinking of tendering for The Mowlem. I have a catering business in Birmingham, but would love to move with my family to Swanage. I hope you don't mind me butting into your blog but I would like to ask why is the present tenant leaving? The details from the agent are very sketchy with no real lease details or ins and outs. (like who locks up, who cleans the loos, are there any maintenance issues etc). Also how would locals like the establishment to improve. Any help greatly appreciated.
all best
Shaqeeb

New Subject

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Town Council

Audit report on Swanage Council.

The town council had a special meeting last Friday to discuss what to do in response to an auditors report and whether to mount a legal challenge. Needless to say the meeting was held behind closed doors to prevent the electors finding out what their representatives have been up to. Does anyone have any information on what this is about? As we will have to foot the bill if they go to law we are entitled to know what its about.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 10:41 PM

PDC Core strategy

PDC have just released their (our) CORE STRATEGY ISSUES AND OPTIONS CONSULTATION

if you'd like to view and comment then pop along to:

Planning Reception, Purbeck District Council
(Monday -Thursday 8:45am - 4:45pm, and Friday 8:45am - 4:15pm)


Corfe Castle Library, East Street, Corfe Castle, BH20 5EE
(Mon 2pm - 4:30pm, Wed 4:30pm -7pm, Fri 9:30am -12pm, Sat 9:30am -12pm)


Dorchester Library, Colliton Park, Dorchester, DT1 1XJ
(Mon 10am -7pm, Tue 9:30am -7pm, Wed 9:30am -7pm, Thu 9:30am -5pm, Fri 9:30am -7pm, Sat 9am - 4pm)


Lytchett Matravers Library, High Street, Lytchett Matravers, BH16 6BG
(Mon 9am -1pm/2pm - 5pm, Tue 2pm - 5pm, Thu 9am -1pm, Fri 2pm -7pm, Sat 9am -12:30pm)


Poole Central Library, Dolphin Centre, Poole, BH15 1QE
(Mon 9am - 6pm, Tue 9am - 6pm, Wed 9am - 6pm, Thu 9am - 6pm, Fri 9am -6pm, Sat 9am -5pm)


Upton Library, Corner House, Upton Cross, Poole, BH16 5PW
(Mon 9:30am -1pm/ 2pm-5pm, Tue 9:30am -1pm/ 2pm -5pm, Wed 9:30am -1pm/ 2pm - 5pm, Fri 9:30am -1pm/ 2pm - 7pm, Sat 9am -12:30pm)


Swanage Library, High Street, Swanage, BH19 2NU
(Mon 10am -7pm, Tue 9:30am -1:30pm, Wed 9:30am - 5pm, Fri 9:30am - 7pm, Sat 9am - 4pm)

Wareham Library, South Street, Wareham, BH20 4LR
(Mon 10am - 5pm, Tue 9:30am -7pm, Thu 9:30am - 5pm, Fri 9:30am -7pm, Sat 9am -12:30pm)


Wool Library, D’Urberville Centre, Colliers Lane, Wool, BH20 6DL
(Tue 3pm -7pm, Thu 10am -1pm, Sat 9:30am -12:30pm)

It's a 43 page document full of entirely accessible linguistics, sorry, Govspeak.

However, it is about our next 20 years, so give it a go.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 7:53 PM

Liven up Swanage?

She talks about smartening up the resort, reinventing it as 'the city on the beach' with a cafe and bar culture and celebrating its entertainment history.

'It's not just Punch and Judy. Last month we did the Iliad as a half-hour puppet show on the streets. There's more blood and guts in the Iliad than in Punch and Judy.'

Blackpool. sadly not Swanage

http://tinyurl.com/6fcr7l

Vic Club

Purbeck District Council has ruled that hours of trading at the Victoria Club in Swanage should be cut back to less than those of neighbouring pubs, and that live music should cease. The ruling is subject to appeal.

Complaints were made by people who live in Quayside Court opposite, and also people who live above the club.

"Antisocial behaviour is present in this area because of the Victoria Club, there's no doubt about that" alleged one local resident, according to the Echo.

It seems to me that there are several issues, well worth debate here.

When a club has been operating for years, is it acceptable for people to buy or rent a flat above or opposite and complain about the club?

Are they alleging that if the club closed completely, there would be no antisocial behaviour in that part of town? What about people using the other pubs, fast food shops, and open area on the quayside?

If the club were to close completely, what knock-on effect would this have to local trade?
Parties come to Swanage for a meal, tour round the pubs then a trip to the club for late night drinks and dancing. Surely the loss of the only night club would affect other businesses too?



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 8:20 AM

Schools

Closures not ruled out as school place surplus reviewed

http://tinyurl.com/4vqy4m



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 6:22 AM

Lower High Street

I note that the new road surface on the Lower High Street and Park Road has been ripped up by SE. No doubt when they re-lay it, Gas, Water and telephone will come along to have a go at the virgin tarmacadam.

RobO

Swanage Future conference Thurs 15 May

Swanage Chamber is supporting a conference on the 15th May 2008 in Swanage to look at the changing economic climate and what this might hold for Swanage

- rising fuel rices and the possibility of £2.00 litre by the end of 2008.
- the effects on the tourist trade which supports many businesses in the town.
- how to retain and develop our workforce with new skills.
- how to successfully build a local supply of quality produce to reduce food miles, carbon emissions and limit the effects of global markets.

Speakers include

*Gary Fooks, Dorset 2012 Legacy Manager

*Jenny Goldsack, Goldy’s Farm Shops

*Barnaby Quaddy, Federation Small Businesses

*Martyn Jenkins, Safe 2 Work

*Teresa Rice, Harmony HR

To attend, please use the online form on the Chamber website http://www.swanagechamber.co.uk/swanagefuture.htm
(Sorry so late posting this notice)

Purbeck Community Partnership

I bumped into a friend s' afternoon who'd been invited. He'd no idea why cuz he's no longer lobbying, campaigning, or even moaning.

But he went along, quite a few Councillors, including Annette Brooke - no sign of Jim Knight - and lots of old people - his description - as he says, he's one of them.

No-one from local businesses. As with Barney's meeting on Thurs, it was during the working day, so many of us wouldn't have been able to attend anyway.

Anyone go?

Anyone know what happened?

It was about our next 20 years, would be nice to know what happened.

PS
can't find anything on PDC's website - mind you, that doesn't mean it isn't there!



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 6:02 PM

New Subject

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INDOOR MARKET

The Swanage Advertiser published an advertisement on April 24 about an indoor market in Swanage. Does anybody know where it is, or who is running it?
I have phoned the number and left messages twice, and sent email but had no reply.
This is the advert:

Exciting new indoor facility in Swanage is seeking approx 20 traders for stalls up to 100 sq ft.
Open daily in central location with all amenities provided. Ideally suited for organic produce & foodstuff, arts and crafts, fashion and jewellery, music and entertainment.
Brilliant first time opportunity, stalls start from £70 per week.
Please tel: 01202 709777 or email: info@haven19.co.uk



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 8:49 AM

Town Meeting 7 May, 7pm

The annual public town meeting (aka Parish Assembly) is on 7th May at 7pm at the Town Hall. It's different from the usual council meetings in that the whole meeting is for public discussion, This is the opportunity for anyone to raise any issues they wish. If you have a specific proposal, this is a good time to put it forward: I understand that if a majority present vote in support, then the council has to give it proper consideration at the earliest opportunity.

Mowlem bar/restaurant

Rumour has it that the bar and catering contract comes up for renewal at The Mowlem later this year.

At present the current bunch - Badger? - Hall and Woodhouse? - aren't reapplying.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 1:09 PM

Band at the Grand (Sat 26 April)

Band at the Grand!

Steve Darrington will be the guest pianist with Chris Collins & Blues Etc, featuring 'Harmonica' Hugh Budden, at The Grand Hotel, Burlington Road, Swanage on Saturday 26 April at 8.30pm.

There is an optional buffet for £6.50 beforehand from 7.00 - 8.30pm, and admission to the music is free.

Swanage Blues Club will be holding two further events at the Grand Hotel in May, and everybody is welcome.



Posted by Steve Darrington to swanageview at 8:53 AM

New Subject

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Swanage Residents' Association AGM 7 April

SWANAGE RESIDENTS ASSOCIATION
Annual General Meeting

Monday 7 April at 7.30pm
Mowlem Committee Room

Guest Speaker is STEVE DRING
Team Leader in Planning Policy at Purbeck District Council

He will talk about
PLANNING FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENT IN SWANAGE AND PURBECK

Please try to be there-you will be very welcome

John Leach (Chairman)



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 10:50 PM

Grand Band Good Friday

Steve Darrington and his Blues Band featuring 'Harmonica' Hugh Budden will be appearing at The Grand Hotel, Burlington Road, Swanage on Good Friday at 8.30pm.

There is an optional buffet beforehand from 7.00 - 8.30pm costing £6.50, but admission to the music is free.



Posted by Steve Darrington to swanageview at 1:57 AM

Police message for women

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "New Subject":

The following dropped into my email from a reliable source. I therefore submit it to the Swanage Blog:

RobO

MESSAGE FOR WOMEN

POLICE MESSAGE FOR WOMEN

An important message from the Police - Please take time to read this and take note.

Please pass this along to all the women you know.....

This actually happened a few weeks ago on the M3 Fleet services. It was early evening and a young girl stopped to get petrol. She filled her tank and walked into the store to pay for her petrol.

The cashier told her "Don't pay for your petrol yet.....walk around the store for a while and act as if you're picking up some other things to buy. A man just got into the back of your car. I've called the police and they're on their way."

When the police arrived, they found the man in the back seat of the girl's car and asked him what he was doing. He replied, he was joining a gang and the initiation to join is to kidnap a woman and bring her back to the gang to be raped by every member of the gang. If the woman was still alive by the time they finish with her then they let her go.

According to the police that night, there is a new gang forming here originating from London.

The scary part of this is because the guy didn't have a weapon on him. The police could only charge him with trespassing.... He's back on the street and free to try again. Please be aware of what's going on around you and for your family and friends. LADIES you or one of your family and friends could be the next victim.

Please forward this on to everyone you know. Please do not discard this message it is very important that everyone knows what is happening.

Please be careful when leaving your vehicle and make sure it is ALWAYS Locked to prevent this from happening to you.

MET POLICE :

Subject: POLICE INFORMATION - NOT A JOKE - ACTUAL SAFETY ADVICE

This first bit is mainly for women, but boys please read it and send it on to any women you care about. The second bit is a warning to all of us!

Some sound advice for us all as we all sometimes forget to take our common sense with us when we go out. This is from Northants Police. Women.... In light of the recent kidnapping and now murder of Leigh Mathews I think it is important to read the following info for your own safety.

Things women should know to stay safe: Please Take the time to read these pointers. There may just be one or two you hadn't thought of. After reading this, forward it to someone you care about. It never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in.

1. Tip; The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it do!

2. If a robber asks for your handbag, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you.... he is probably more interested in your handbag than you and he will go for the handbag. RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!

3. If you are ever thrown into the boot of a car: Kick out the back tail lights and stick your arm through the hole and start waving. The driver won't see you but everybody else will. This has saved lives. 4.Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc., and just sit (doing their cheque book, or making a list).

DON'T DO THIS! A predator could be watching you, and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, and attack you. AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO YOUR CAR, LOCK THE DOORS AND LEAVE.

5. A few notes about getting into your car in a car park:

A.) Be aware: look around you, look into your car, at the passenger side floor, and check the back seat.
B.) If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. Most attackers surprise their victims by pulling them into their van while the women are attempting to get into their cars.
C.) Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the shop, or work, and get a guard/
policeman to walk you back out. IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)

6. ALWAYS take the lift instead of the stairs. Stairwells are horrible places to be alone and the perfect crime spot.

7. If the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; and even then, it most likely WILL NOT be a vital organ. RUN!

8. As women, we are always trying to be sympathetic: STOP IT! It may get you raped, or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women. He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked "for help" into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim.

9. Another Safety Point: Someone just told me that her friend heard a crying baby on her porch the night before last, and she called the police because it was late and she thought it was weird. The police told her 'Whatever you do, DO NOT open the door." The lady then said that it sounded like the baby had crawled near a window, and she was worried that it would crawl to the street and get run over. The policeman said, "We already have a unit on the way, whatever you do, DO NOT open the door."

He told her that they think a serial killer has a baby's cry recorded and uses it to coax women out of their homes thinking that someone dropped off a baby. He said they have not verified it, but have had several calls by women saying that they hear babies' cries outside their doors when they're home alone at night.

Please pass this on and DO NOT open the door for a crying baby.

I'd like you to forward this to all the women you know. It may save a life.

A candle is not dimmed by lighting another candle. Send this to any woman you know that may need to be reminded that the world we live in has a lot of crazies in it and it's better safe than sorry.

NORTHAMPTONSHIRE POLICE

PLEASE READ. MAY BE HELPFUL AND PLEASE TAKE CARE!! ALL CAR OWNERS AND CAR DRIVERS PLEASE READ Warning!!!!

Be aware of new car-jacking scheme. You walk across the car park, unlock your car and get inside. Then you lock all your doors, start the engine and shift or put into reverse.

You look into the rear-view mirror to back out of your parking space and you notice a piece of paper stuck to the middle of the rear window.

So, you shift the gear stick back into park or neutral, unlock your doors and jump out of your car to remove that paper or whatever it is that is obstructing your view.

When you reach the back of your car that is when the car-jackers appear out of nowhere, jump into your car and take off!!

Your engine was running, you would have left your purse in the car and they practically mow you down as they speed off in your car.

BE AWARE OF THIS NEW SCHEME THAT IS NOW BEING USED IN LONDON/MANCHESTER MAKING ITS WAY ACROSS THE COUNTRY!!!!!!!!

Drive away and remove the paper later! It is stuck to your window and be thankful that you read this email. I hope you will forward this to friends and family especially to women! A purse contains all identification and you certainly do NOT want someone getting your home address. They already HAVE your keys!!!



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 9:10 PM

BT scam

Watch out for this one. Just had someone from BT call to offer free weekend and evening calls, no extra charge, nothing... when I said why bother to ask me if I wanted something for nothing, and was there absolutely no change to anything...reply was oh just agree to 12 month contract. So watch out, so you don't agree to something that would stop you changing supplier if you wanted to.

New Subject

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Tim Entwhistle?

If anyone knew/knows Tim Entwhistle, who used to live in Harmans Cross, you might be interested in what he's been up to

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/london/7265603.stm

Blues Festival Accommodation

Does anybody have any accommodation for the weekend of the 8th Swanage Blues Festival? That's 7, 8, 9 March.

If so, please email s.darrington@btopenworld.com



Posted by Steve Darrington to swanageview at 7:14 AM

Roadie wanted?

Support Worker required to assist disabled gentleman in his work as musician and festival organiser. Duties will include driving to gigs and setting up equipment. The successful applicant will be strong enough to carry up to 20kg equipment on own, car owner essential.
Rate of pay £6 per hour plus 25p per mile from gentleman's Swanage home to destination - typical evening 5 hours. The successful applicant will be paid cash by the job, but will have to sign for the money and be prepared to confirm details if requested. Hours vary according to the work offered to the gentleman, and will be between 10 and 40 hours per month initially
Will suit musician, someone interested in live entertainment, festival organising, or similar.
Reason for recruitment - current Support Worker going abroad.
Interested applicants please email s.darrington@btopenworld.com



Posted by Steve Darrington to swanageview at 7:11 AM

Colours?

Since the change in colour on this blog, there seems to have been a decrease in comments. I may be wrong, but is this a factor for anybody else?
Certainly writing black on blue isn't the clearest format, and may be hard on poor old eyes!



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 6:19 AM

Day Centre saved!

Dorset County Council has today (14th Feb) scrapped plans to close a clutch of day centres.Members voted unanimously to save four centres, including those in Swanage and Gillingham.

Congratulations to all those who who worked so hard..

Saturday 16th February LIVE MUSIC

There will be Live Music at the Grand Hotel on Saturday 16th February from 8.30pm in the lounge bar. Free admission, all welcome.

Steve Darrington Blues Band featuring 'Harmonica' Hugh Budden

A 'taster' for the 8th Swanage Blues Festival on 7, 8, 9 March, see www.swanage-blues.org



Posted by Steve Darrington to swanageview at 6:59 PM

Mowlem 'culture' (ahem)

I think this says a lot about the sort of place that will paint round (sort of) a sign on a door rather than try that little bit harder to do things properly

Mowlem reactivated

k nunneley said...

Though I am wading in to the Mowlem debate rather late, I was surprised and delighted to come across so many strong opinions. I am a Wareham resident studying for a Masters in Cultural Industries Management, and have chosen the Mowlem as the subject of my Fundraising Plan assignment. I must admit to loving the building, decrepit though it now is, and although I greatly admire Laurence's scheme I do feel that to adopt this kind of radical makeover would be to throw the baby out with the bath water. The Mowlem is a great example of British Brutalist architecture and, love it or hate it, I do think there is argument for listing it and renovating accordingly. As for who would pay for it, in my view, the Mowlem as an organisation is stuck in what is known as 'mission drift'. In other words, to stay afloat the charity is having to engage in commercial activities that go against its mission i.e to 'provide further education and improve the conditions of life for Swanage residents'. Currently the Mowlem makes it's community room available to the Mowlem Elders Circle several mornings a week, but as far as I can tell this is the only 'charitable' activity it conducts. According to my research this is probably the reason why their various funding applications haven't succeeded, and will go on not succeeding until they can show that the Mowlem genuinely benefits the Swanage community. I must stress that It's clear that the Mowlem staff do a fantastic job under difficult circumstances. Brian Travers already does the job of several people, and to expect him to be a Marketing and Development expert of the kind that arts organisations employ nowadays is pretty unfair; and the trustees are obviously an able and dedicated group. I asked Brian if he would be involved in the preparation of the Fundraising Plan but didn't hear back from him, and have had to press on regardless. I think the Mowlem has huge potential, and this plan will hopefully demonstrate how Brian and the trustees could access some major and much needed funding that would help the Mowlem really come into its own. I will, of course, make the Fundraising Plan available to Brian and anyone else who would like a copy (when it's finished, mid Feb '08). Sorry for the huge number of words, am new to this blogging lark...

New Subject

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Thomas the Tank Engine

Thomas the Tank Engine is Dead!

According to the Beeb, Swanage Railway is to drop their T the T weekends due to legislation that would require the Staff to take Training Courses.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 5:55 PM

Blues Festival is on 7, 8, 9 March

The 8th Swanage Blues Festival is on 7, 8, 9 March. Admission is free.

Artists include The Guvnors, Jon Walsh Blues Band, Sonny Black, Storm Warning, Will Killeen, John Crampton, Angelina & JC Grimshaw, Robin Bibi, Motel 6, The Mustangs, Robert Hokum Blues Band, Coalhouse Walker, Ernies Rhythm Section, Debbie Giles Band, Chris Collins & Blues Etc, The Ragtime Jug Orchestra, Hightown Crows, Coast, C Sharp Blues, Steve Darrington, the Fabulous Fezheads and Harris, Budden & Osborne. Plus open mic sessions every afternoon and a blues steam train ride.

For full information, a free programme or to get on the mailing list, see website www.swanage-blues.org



Posted by Steve Darrington to swanageview at 2:48 PM

Chamber of Trade meeting 23 Jan

The Swanage Yacht Club will host an Extraordinary General Meeting of Swanage and District Chamber of Trade and Commerce on Wednesday 23rd January at 7.30pm.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 2:26 PM

Delinquents

German delinquent banished to Siberia

German authorities exasperated at the behaviour of a 16-year-old boy have sent him to a remote Siberian village for an "intensive educational experience".
The unusual measure by youth welfare officers in the central state of Hesse has raised fresh questions about how to deal with delinquents who have been blamed for a series of ugly crimes.
The boy, who has not been identified, was dispatched east after behaving violently in school and at home and attacking his mother.
He is being forced to fend for himself in boot camp-style conditions in the forlorn village of Sedelnikovo, several hours' drive from the city of Omsk, in the western Siberian interior.
He has had to cope by collecting and chopping firewood to make his own fires, digging his own toilet and pumping water supplies from a well.
He will stay there for nine months, separated from family and friends, the internet and television, under a program designed for him.
The youth spends most of his time trying to cope with his day-to-day existence.
If he doesn't chop the wood, his room is cold. If he doesn't fetch water, he can't wash.



Posted by Anonymous to swanageview at 6:45 PM

Olympic opportunities?

The Olympics are really not too far away, with the Olympics in general and the Sailing Olympics in Weymouth , in particular, attracting hundreds of thousands of people. I've heard estimates of 40,000 journalists alone, and 2000 spectator yachts expected at Weymouth, with people from over 60 countries. Although the Sailing Olympics take place in 2012, there will be major "test events " in 2010 and 2011. There are opportunities for all sorts of businesses to get involved, and to benefit during the events as well as before and beyond. I'm trying to arrange a presentation in Swanage, but meanwhile,if you think you or business could benefit, you might be interested in two things: free training and registering as a potential supplier. To register as a supplier, see: http://www.competefor.com and https://etenders.london2012.com . For training, see: http://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/sharingtheflame/

Day Centre to stay!

Congratulations to all who campaigned so tirelessly to keep the Day Centre from being closed. I gather that at a meeting of the Dorset County Council yesterday, it was agreed to reprieve the Swanage Day Centre (and some others in the county) for the time being at least. I understand the plan is to see how the centre may be better used, perhaps by other groups, to maximise resources. More at: http://www.bournemouthecho.co.uk/news/purbeck/display.var.1974816.0.day_centres_win_a_stay_of_execution.php

Sandbanks

On ITV tonight (Tuesday 15th) at 10.35pm there's the first of three programmes about Sandbanks (continuing on Wednesday 16 January and concluding on Thursday 17).

Piers Morgan investigates why Sandbanks is one of the most expensive places to live in the world.

Didyousee the designosaurs?

Hie on down to the Stone Quay to see the work of children from St George's, Langton and St Marks, Swanage. They worked with artists Antonia Philips and Nina Camplin, and the support of Durlston Country Park, Nick Storer, the Community Champions and others.

Graffiti in Swanage

Graffiti again supporting less second home ownership in Swanage...

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