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Welcome! The Epsom and Ewell Talking Newspaper is a charity producing a weekly* sound recording of news and other items primarily for blind and partially sighted people. Please explore our site to find out more about what we do.
This week’s EETN local audio news covers a range of stories, including updates on Epsom’s Local Plan, developments in tennis coaching, a revival of horse racing, and a vibrant new street art initiative. Also featured are updates from Sutton Council, Surrey’s pavement parking policies, and a local man’s cancer charity run. Don’t miss our regular “What’s On” segment for upcoming events and activities!
To listen to this week’s audio news click the Play button
Epsom and Ewell Borough Council News
Local Plan
Epsom and Ewell Borough Councill faces mounting pressure from nine opposition councillors to expedite the approval of its Local Plan amid fears of government-imposed housing targets. With a draft plan potentially subjecting the borough to a target of 817 homes per year, concerns are high about the impact on green spaces. The opposition is calling for an Emergency Council Meeting to ensure public consultation can proceed swiftly.
Street Art Projects
In partnership with globally recognised street artists Positive Arts, local charity We Power On and GLF students, Epsom and Ewell Borough Council has unveiled two new community art murals in Epsom and Stoneleigh. The projects, featuring designs by local students, aim to revitalize public spaces and foster community pride. The murals, funded through an arts initiative, focus on themes inspired by local heritage, including Epsom’s racing history.
Tennis Coaching Expansion
Epsom and Ewell Borough Council has appointed three new tennis coaching providers to offer sessions in local parks. With free sessions available as part of the Barclays Park Tennis initiative, the council aims to make tennis accessible to all, regardless of age or experience. R&A Sport will be carrying out coaching sessions at Auriol Park, Sutton Tennis Coaching will be offering sessions at Alexandra Park and Callum Macarty Tennis operating at Court Recreation Ground. The council is currently offering two free, bookable sessions between 9-10am and 10-11am each Saturday. The council is also looking for local volunteers to be tennis activators to lead free tennis sessions in the parks on Saturday mornings.
Sutton Borough Council News
20 mph Zones Proposed
Sutton Council has launched a public consultation on new 20 mph zones in residential areas to improve road safety. Despite concerns over potential congestion, the council is working alongside Transport for London to create safer roads for motorists and pedestrians. The consultation remains open for public feedback.
Incinerator Debate
Sutton Council faced a backlash after bypassing a debate on the Beddington Incinerator plant during a recent meeting, leading to an accusation of ‘showing contempt for democracy’. The incinerator, operated by Viridor, has raised environmental and health concerns among residents. The Lib Deb council were criticized for avoiding public discussion on an issue impacting the community. The council leadership cited time constraints but assured there would be further debate in upcoming meetings.
Steps to Curb Motorcycle Pavement Parking
Surrey County Council has announced plans to address illegal pavement parking by contacting food delivery companies including Uber Eats, Deliveroo and Just Eat to enforce compliance and explore alternative parking solutions for riders.
Epsom’s Racing Heritage Revival
Downs House, once a center for racehorse training, is being transformed into a state-of-the-art facility by New Zealander Mark Travers. Expected to host prominent trainers like George Baker, this development aims to restore Epsom’s place in British racing history. With modern amenities, the revamped facility is poised to attract London-based racehorse owners. For more information, see Planning Approved for Historic Horse Racing Site.
80-Mile Run for Cancer Charity by Epsom Resident
Kevin Webber, an Epsom resident and prostate cancer survivor, plans to run 80 miles (129 km) to raise funds for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. The run, scheduled for November 5, will involve multiple laps between his home and the hospital in Sutton.
What’s On!
Christmas Quiz Night at Swail House
Join the festive quiz night hosted by the Swail House Association for the Visually Impaired on Friday, December 13, at 6:00pm. Enjoy refreshments, a raffle, and a fun quiz led by a professional quizmaster.
This November, the University of Surrey hosts both the ESRC Festival of Social Science and The Being Human Festival. The Being Human Festival is the only UK national festival dedicated to the humanities; exploring themes related to identity, culture, and the human condition. The ESRC Festival of Social Science focuses on the real-world impact of social science research. ‘Both festivals are designed to be interactive, accessible, and thought-provoking’ and open to the public.
Key Dates
ESRC Festival of Social Science: October 19-November 9, 2024
Being Human Festival: November 7-16, 2024
For more information, a full list of topics and events, and to book your free tickets for any of the events, please visit: https://buytickets.at/universityofsurrey3
Listen to this week’s EETN news for these stories and more including Nonsuch Park dog walking licensing pilot, Leatherhead clock upgrade and much more.
The Go Epsom website has a calendar of What’s On featuring local events which you can add to.
The local news is just one of three sections of the Epsom and Ewell as described on the About Us page.
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