2025 - Page 2 of 3 - Woodley Town Council

Town Council News Post

New Water Bottle Filling Station Installed in Woodley Town Centre Thanks to Rotary Club Support

A Greener Future

Woodley Town Centre has taken another step towards a greener future with the installation of a new water bottle filling station, generously supported by a joint donation from the Rotary Club of Loddon Vale and Reading Maiden Erlegh. This new facility offers free, fresh drinking water to residents and visitors alike, encouraging the use of reusable bottles and helping to cut down on single-use plastic waste.

A Boost for Sustainability and Community Wellbeing

Strategically located in a busy area of the town centre, the filling station aligns closely with Woodley Town Council’s Climate Emergency Action Plan, which aims to make the town more environmentally sustainable through practical, everyday solutions. The Council has committed to reducing carbon emissions and promoting eco-friendly behaviours, and this initiative represents a tangible step in that direction.

Brian Fennelly, Town Centre Manager, welcomed the development, saying: “This is a fantastic addition to our town centre. It not only provides a practical service for shoppers and visitors, but also supports our shared vision for a cleaner, greener Woodley. We’re very grateful to the Rotary Club for their generous support in making this happen.”

Cllr Keith Baker, Chairman of the Strategy & Resources Committee, added: “The installation of this water bottle filling station is a clear example of Woodley Town Council’s ongoing commitment to tackling climate change. By reducing single-use plastics and encouraging sustainable practices, we’re investing in facilities that support both the environment and the wellbeing of our community.”

Rotary’s Ongoing Community Support

Scott Trathen of the Rotary Club of Reading Maiden Erlegh explained how the initiative reflects Rotary’s broader environmental goals:

“The idea to donate a refill station came from the shared aspirations of two local Rotary clubs – Loddon Vale and Maiden Erlegh. We’re proud to support our local communities and promote sustainable living. Reducing plastic waste is critical, and we’re delighted to work with Woodley Town Council to make a lasting difference. We hope everyone passing through the precinct takes full advantage of this facility.”

Rotary Clubs continue to be a pillar of community support in Woodley and Earley and always welcome new members or volunteers. Learn more at www.readingmaidenerlegh.org.

Looking Ahead

On behalf of Woodley Town Council, Cllr Keith Baker, Council Leader, extends his heartfelt thanks to the Rotary Club of Loddon Vale and Reading Maiden Erlegh for their support and partnership.

“This initiative marks another important milestone in the Council’s climate action journey and its mission to create a more sustainable, accessible, and community-focused town.”

Anuszka Ransley July 16, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodford Park Celebrates 8th Consecutive Green Flag Award

Woodley’s flagship park remains the only site in Wokingham Borough with this prestigious accolade

Woodley Town Council is delighted to announce that Woodford Park has been awarded the coveted Green Flag Award for the eighth year running, once again officially recognising it as one of the best parks in the UK.

This international quality mark, awarded by the environmental charity Keep Britain Tidy, highlights Woodford Park as the only park in Wokingham Borough to receive this honour – an ongoing testament to the park’s exceptional standards in cleanliness, safety, biodiversity, and community engagement.

“Congratulations to everyone involved in Woodford Park who have worked tirelessly to ensure that it achieves the high standards required for the Green Flag Award,” said Paul Todd MBE, Green Flag Award Scheme Manager.

“Quality parks and green spaces like Woodford Park make the country a healthier place to live and work, and a stronger place in which to invest. Woodford Park is a vital green space for the Woodley community to enjoy nature, particularly during the ongoing cost of living crisis, offering a free, safe space for families and providing physical and mental health benefits for all,” he added.

A Park For Everyone

Set in the heart of Woodley, Woodford Park offers a wide range of facilities that appeal to all ages. Visitors can enjoy:

Extensive children’s play areas
A lake and nature trails
A sensory garden
A multi-use games area
Tennis courts and football pitches
Skate park and basketball area
And most recently, the newly established Orchard Garden, which has been widely praised and enjoyed by local residents for its beauty, tranquillity, and environmental value.

The continued success of Woodford Park would not be possible without the dedicated work of the Town Council’s Grounds Maintenance Team and the invaluable support of local volunteer group, the Friends of Woodford Park.

“We are extremely proud to receive the Green Flag Award for the eighth consecutive year. This recognition is a reflection of the commitment and dedication of our Amenities Team and the support from the voluntary group Friends of Woodford Park. I’d like to personally thank the team for their efforts in maintaining and improving the park, particularly with the recent addition of our beautiful Orchard Garden, which has already become a much-loved feature of the community,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council Town Clerk.

While, Cllr Keith Baker, Woodley Town Council Leader added: “Many residents often ask about what benefit a Town Council gives them. This eighth consecutive Green Flag, recognising the excellent quality of Woodford Park, is a classic example of what having a Town Council gives you. We do not have the large budget that Wokingham Borough has but we still manage to provide a public green space to match any that the Borough provides. Each year the criteria gets tougher, and it is a credit to the staff of the Town Council that they repeatedly excel. Well done to everyone involved – here’s to a ninth award next year.”

Woodley Town Council remains committed to preserving and enhancing Woodford Park as an accessible, inclusive, and inspiring green space for all residents and visitors to enjoy now, and in the future.

Anuszka Ransley July 15, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Understanding the Planning Process: How Woodley Town Council Supports Your Voice

Helping residents to better understand how planning decisions are made and how the local community can play a role in shaping the town’s future.

What is our role in planning?

When someone submits a planning application in Woodley, Wokingham Borough Council (WBC) is the planning authority and with legal responsibility for determining whether to approve or reject each application.

Woodley Town Council is a statutory consultee, meaning we are invited to review and comment on every planning application that affects our area. While we have no power with regards to the ultimate decision, our recommendations represent the voice of the local community and can influence outcomes.

We consider each application carefully, looking at factors such as traffic, parking, building design, local character, conservation, and environmental impact.

However, it is important that residents understand that our comments do not negate the need for residents to lodge their own personal comments on any application.

How much impact do we have?

During the 2024/25 municipal year, Woodley Town Council reviewed numerous applications submitted within the town. Out of these:

115 decisions made by Wokingham Borough Council were in line with our comments
- 112 applications were approved as we recommended
- 3 applications were refused following our objection
Only 14 decisions went against our recommendations
- 3 applications were refused where we had raised no objection
- 11 were approved where we had raised concerns or objections.

This means Wokingham Borough Council agreed with our comments 89% of the time, demonstrating the value of our input in the process.

Your voice matters too

We strongly encourage residents to:

Attend Planning & Community Committee meetings, especially if there is an application which affects your neighbourhood – these are open to the public and are a great opportunity to hear about current applications and share your views.
Submit comments directly to Wokingham Borough Council – the final decisions rest with them, and your input can make a difference. You can comment online via their planning portal: Wokingham Borough Council Planning Portal

“Planning applications affect the way our town grows and evolves, and it’s so important that the voices of local residents are part of that process. While Woodley Town Council doesn’t make the final decision, our comments are considered seriously and, with nearly 90% of our recommendations aligning with Wokingham Borough Council’s decisions this year, it shows how impactful our local input can be. I strongly encourage residents to attend our meetings, share their views, and submit comments directly to the Borough Council. Your perspective really does matter,” said Cllr Bill Soane, Chair of the Planning & Community Committee, Woodley Town Council.

Get involved

Check our website and noticeboards for agendas, application summaries, and meeting dates. Engaging early in the planning process ensures that your voice is heard.

Anuszka Ransley July 7, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Flag raised in Woodley to honour Armed Forces Day

Woodley Town Council has proudly raised the Armed Forces Day flag in recognition of the service and sacrifice of the UK’s Armed Forces.

The flag-raising took place on Friday [27 June] at the Town Council offices, ahead of Armed Forces Day 2025, which falls on Saturday [28 June]. This year’s event also commemorates the 80th anniversaries of Victory in Europe (VE) Day and Victory over Japan (VJ) Day.

Each June, Armed Forces Day is an opportunity for communities across the UK to show their support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community from currently serving troops to service families, veterans, reservists and cadets.

“Armed Forces Day is an important occasion for us to publicly recognise the courage, dedication and service of the Armed Forces. By raising the flag here in Woodley, we reaffirm our respect and gratitude for those who serve and have served. It’s a small but meaningful gesture of our community’s enduring support,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council Town Clerk.

Flags are flown nationwide each year in the lead-up to Armed Forces Day to demonstrate unity and appreciation.

Woodley Town Council will host a VJ Day commemoration on 15 August. Further details will be shared soon on our website and social media channels.

Anuszka Ransley June 28, 2025 0

Woodley Town Councillors and Wokingham Borough Mayor at the My Journey stall at Woodley Carnival

Town Council News Post

Community Embraces Active Travel at Woodley Carnival

Woodley Town Council was pleased to see strong community interest at the recent Woodley Carnival, where many residents visited the joint MyJourney and Woodley Town Council Cycling & Walking Stall. The stall provided an opportunity to share plans to promote ‘active travel’ encouraging more walking and cycling to help reduce car journeys in and around the town.

The stall proved highly popular, with 214 residents taking part in the ‘spin the wheel’ game and many more stopping by to discuss local safer cycling routes and events. A number of enthusiastic cyclists volunteered to ‘test drive’ new draft safer cycling routes being developed as part of Woodley’s local cycling network.

“It was great to see Woodley folk engaging with active travel, and I was pleased (and surprised!) that a number of cyclists have taken our draft local cycle routes to test drive and provide feedback,” said Cllr June Taylor, a member of the Council’s Cycling & Walking Sub-Committee.

Testing the Routes

The Council has asked volunteers to cycle their chosen route and provide feedback on:

Whether the instructions are clear and easy to follow
Any hazards encountered, such as potholes, broken signs, tricky junctions, or flooded off-road paths
The duration of the route from end to end
Any improvements or alternative suggestions for the route.

Important Feedback

In addition, the Council is encouraging wider community input on how to make Woodley more bike-friendly. Residents are invited to share their ideas on:

The availability and location of cycle racks, secure stores, repair stands, and pumps
Signage for both cyclists and walkers
Safety considerations such as lighting, road speed limits, and cycling education
Barriers to owning a bike, and challenges for children cycling
Any other suggestions related to cycling infrastructure or experience.

A spokesperson for MyJourney said: “We had a great day. We loved speaking with people who are genuinely interested in active travel. Many residents also spoke to us about the various local events MyJourney organises for the community.”

Get on Your Bike

We were encouraged by the level of engagement and are keen to involve even more local people as this work continues.

Whether you’re a regular cyclist or just thinking about getting back on your bike, we’d love to hear from you. Help us shape a more cycle-friendly Woodley by testing a route or sending us your ideas.

Please contact Cllr June Taylor for more information: [email protected]

Anuszka Ransley June 27, 2025 0

Woodley Town Mayor judges Woodley Schools Garden Tray Competition

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Mayor helps Woodley school children bloom in gardening competition

Hosted by Waingels, young gardeners from Woodley’s primary schools came together last week for the annual Year 1 School Tray Garden Competition. This year’s event had a “Kindness” theme, which inspired budding horticulturists from Highwood, Rivermead, and Beechwood Primary School to get creative and work as a team to make a themed garden that represented friendship and working together.

Organised by Jackie Andrews as part of the Woodley Cluster Project and Amrit Virdee from Waingels, and with plants kindly donated by Winnersh Garden Centre, the competition saw pupils from different schools pairing up in teams of four to design and build their tray gardens in an event hosted by Waingels. The focus was on imagination and teamwork, with each group putting their own spin on the “Kindness” element.

The children’s trays featured fantastic storytelling and playful additions like Stickman figures, bridges, treehouses, and swings, adding fun and imagination to their miniature gardens. Ponds, shell areas, and gravel paths brought the soil and connected the spaces, showcasing movement and fun, echoing the joy of outdoor play.

Judges Cassie King, PR Officer from British Garden Centres, who owns the Winnersh store, Woodley Town Mayor Cllr David Bragg, and Brenda Milton from Woodley Flower Club had the tough job of picking the winners, looking for originality, storytelling and how well the children worked together. Parents were invited to join the presentation and applaud the young gardeners at a special awards ceremony led by Louise Quinell, Head of Beechwood Primary School.

Winning Gardens

The results were:

1^st Place: “The Happy Garden” (Beechwood and Rivermead)
2^nd Place: “The Features Garden” (Beechwood and Highwood)
Teamwork Award: “The Beautiful Adventure Park Garden” (Beechwood and Rivermead)

Every child who took part went home with a certificate packet of seeds to sow at home, courtesy of British Garden Centres, to help them keep growing their love of gardening. The top three teams also took home plants to grow in their own outdoor spaces. All of the tray gardens went on to be displayed at the Woodley Carnival, alongside entries from the experienced members of the Woodley Flower Club.

Judges impressed by creativity

Cllr David Bragg, Woodley Town Mayor, was impressed with the children’s efforts, commenting: “It was a real pleasure to see the incredible creativity and teamwork from our young gardeners. Each tray garden told a unique story of kindness and friendship, which made judging both a joy and a real challenge. The passion and imagination displayed by Highwood, Rivermead, and Beechwood children were truly inspiring.”

Cassie King, PR Officer at British Garden Centres, said, “It is always such a joy to watch the children’s ideas take shape in their tray gardens. Their creativity shone through in every detail, and it’s lovely seeing how much fun they had working together, sharing ideas, and getting their hands dirty. I hope these children will carry that enthusiasm with them, whether it’s in their own gardens at home or in future projects at school.”

Jackie Andrews of the Woodley Cluster Project said, “The children did so well again this year, creating really beautiful gardens. They all enjoyed thinking about what they do in their gardens and how you can use gardens to help you feel happy. Everyone worked with enthusiasm, and the atmosphere for the whole day was one of joy! I would like to thank everyone involved in the day – our judges, Waingels for hosting the day and running the workshops, the Year 1 teachers for making the arrangements so that their pupils could take part and Winnersh Garden Centre for donating all the plants, compost and prizes, without which we simply would not be able to run this project.”

Anuszka Ransley June 23, 2025 0

Ruth Shephard using the Council's grant to help her in kayaking competitions

Town Council News Post

Woodley Teen Paddles Toward National Success with Help from Council Grant

A rising star in the world of kayaking is making waves this year, thanks in part to a grant from Woodley Town Council.

Ruth Shephard, a dedicated young athlete from Woodley, has already had a standout season in 2025, competing in both sprint and marathon disciplines across the UK and Europe. With the support of the Council’s grant, she has been able to upgrade her equipment, attend specialist training camps, and compete internationally, all of which have contributed to her rapid progression in the sport.

“This season started with two new boats, one for sprint and one for marathon, which has been a game changer. The two disciplines have different demands, and having the right equipment has made my training and racing so much more effective,” said Ruth.

In February, she attended an intensive training camp at the Montebello Resort in Portugal. “That experience helped me improve not just my technique on the water, but also my communication and overall approach to the sport.”

A major highlight came at the German Marathon Nationals, where she earned a podium finish, coming third in the Under 16 long course (18km) and sixth in the Under 18 short course (3.5km). “Thank you for awarding me this grant to help get me to this event,” she said. “It was such an important step in my development as an athlete.”

April saw her racing in the season’s first sprint regatta, where she clinched first place in the Girls B 1000m K1 event, winning by a commanding 10 seconds. She continued her momentum in June, coming third in the 500m event in the Girls A-B combined category.

Looking ahead, she has her sights set on the national championships this July. “I’m training hard with the aim of competing in both Under 14 and Under 16 categories, and I’m in talks with my coach about the potential for international selection,” added Ruth.

Grants

For more information about the Council’s grants and how they support local individuals and groups, please visit the Grants page on our website.

Anuszka Ransley June 19, 2025 0

Audio loop system now available for Council meetings

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Council Upgrades Delegate Audio System to Support Accessibility for All

Woodley Town Council is pleased to announce the installation of a new delegate microphone and audio loop system to improve accessibility and engagement at council meetings

This new system is a significant step forward in making Council meetings more inclusive and accessible to all members of our community, especially those with hearing impairments. The built-in audio loop technology allows attendees to fully participate in meetings by enhancing sound clarity. Residents can use their own hearing devices with the neck loop receiver or simply plug in standard headphones to benefit from clearer audio during the meetings.

In addition to improving in-room accessibility, the system significantly enhances the sound quality of live-streamed and recorded meetings available on our YouTube channel.

“We’re committed to making our Council meetings open and accessible to everyone in Woodley. This new system ensures that all residents, regardless of hearing ability, can now experience clearer audio of our meetings, whether attending in person or watching from home.” Said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council Town Clerk.

Residents can attend all Council committee meetings in person at the Oakwood Centre or watch them online. For more information about upcoming meeting dates, please visit our website.

Anuszka Ransley June 17, 2025 0

Coling Lawley greeted by Woodley Town Mayor Cllr David Bragg

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Council Announces the Passing of Former Councillor Coling Lawley

We are saddened to announce the recent passing of former Councillor Coling Lawley, who passed away over the weekend.

Cllr Lawley was a dedicated councillor and a much-valued member of the Woodley community. He served as Deputy Town Mayor from 2008 to 2010 and went on to serve as Town Mayor from 2010 to 2012.

“I was sad to hear about the passing of Coling, someone who I had many discussions and debates on a variety of matters. Whilst we were in different political parties those discussions were always done with integrity and good humour with no hint of any animosity between us. We also shared participation many committees over the years, especially the Town Centre Management Initiative, and anyone attending them would be left in no doubt of his passion for Woodley. To me he was very much ‘old school’ as far as behaviour was concerned compared to what is happening now and was always polite even if he vehemently disagreed with you. Everything he did was focussed on Woodley. He was a credit to his party,” said Cllr Keith Baker, Woodley Town Council Leader.

Throughout his years of service, he brought dedication and a genuine passion for the town he loved.

“Coling Lawley was a well-known resident of Woodley. For many years he was the manager and pharmacist at Boots in Woodley town centre, where his help was much appreciated by residents. He joined the Liberal Democrats and was encouraged to stand as a Councillor on both Woodley Town Council and Wokingham Borough Council, following which, for a short time, he became Leader of Wokingham Borough Council before retiring from both his working and public life,” said Cllr Beth Rowland.

“Coling in his younger years was a very social person and loved to mix with residents. As he became older, he was not as active, but we were all very grateful for his friendship, wisdom and support. Rest in Peace Coling,” she added.

Most recently, Cllr Lawley joined the Council to celebrate the opening of its new History Wall and Coronation Orchard Garden. He had previously gifted historical maps of Woodley, which are on display at the Oakwood Centre.

“Coling was a kind and committed councillor who gave so much to Woodley during his time on the Council and beyond. His contributions, both as a councillor, Mayor and as a community member, will not be forgotten,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council’s Town Clerk.

Out of respect for Coling, we will be flying the Town Council flag at half-mast.

Woodley Town Council extends its heartfelt condolences to Coling’s family and friends at this difficult time.

**Coling Lawley at the opening of the Council’s Coronation Orchard Garden, greeted by Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr David Bragg**

Anuszka Ransley June 3, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodley Celebrates Community and Achievements at Annual Town Meeting

Woodley Town Council proudly hosted a well-attended Annual Town Meeting on 22 May at the Alan Cornish Theatre, bringing together local residents, volunteer groups, and councillors for an inspiring evening of community engagement and recognition.

With presentations from local volunteer groups, a detailed review of the Town Council’s work, and the highly anticipated Community Heroes Awards, the meeting served as a vibrant reflection of the town’s community pride and commitment to public service.

A Meeting for the People

Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr David Bragg, opened the meeting with a warm welcome, emphasising that the Annual Town Meeting is unique in its purpose – it is not a council meeting, but one held specifically for local electors to engage with and question their council. It offers a rare chance for residents to hear first-hand about the work of the council and other organisations making a difference in Woodley.

Celebrating Local Volunteers

The evening spotlighted three vital volunteer organisations: Woodley Adopt A Street (WASP), Woodley Volunteer Centre (WVC), and The Link Visiting Scheme (LVS).

Sheila Flower of WASP described the group as “a fantastic community of people from across Woodley, of all ages,” who work tirelessly to keep the town clean. She appealed for more young volunteers and involvement from schools, adding, “I’d like to say a big thank you to all of our volunteers and the people that support us, including the Town Council for its continued support.”

From WVC, co-ordinator Karen Todd reflected on the Centre’s 43-year history, which has evolved to focus on transporting elderly and vulnerable residents to medical appointments. “It’s a service run by local people for local people who need help,” she stated, noting the urgent need for more volunteer drivers as they are now turning new clients away and they want to be able to help more people in Woodley.

Marjie Walker, CEO of LVS, shared stories illustrating the emotional impact of their work, such as the touching friendship between an elderly resident and a young volunteer. “We support 95 elderly people in Woodley to help combat loneliness and isolation,” she said, while also making a plea for volunteers to serve as companions, drivers, and cooks, especially for community meals like their annual Christmas Day dinner.

Council Updates and Forward Thinking

The Deputy Town Clerk, Matthew Filmore, presented a comprehensive overview of the council’s responsibilities, highlighting the distinctions between Woodley Town Council and Wokingham Borough Council.

While the Town Clerk, Kevin Murray, highlighted recent council achievements, including the Coronation Orchard in Woodford Park, the installation of a History Wall in the Oakwood Centre, and the hosting of events such as D-Day and VE Day commemorations. Exciting future projects include:

A new Youth Services Strategy
The Woodley Cycling Network for improved walking and cycling routes
Planned upgrades to the theatre and Woodford Park Leisure Centre
A Resident’s Consultation to shape how the local precept – currently £2.05 per week for a Band D property – is spent.

Community Q&A

Residents were invited to raise questions and concerns. Topics included:

VE Day event publicity – Cllr Bragg explained the short notice due to lack of allocated budget but thanked staff for their efforts in putting on an event at such short notice.
Leisure Centre improvements – More surveys are underway before final decisions can be made or a timeline produced.
Local issues – Lack of parking at Bulmershe Leisure Centre, misuse of public bins, antisocial behaviour, and tree root damage were noted for referral to Wokingham Borough Council.
E-scooter use in the town centre – As a nationwide concern, residents were urged by councillors to report incidents to the police to support stronger national regulation.
Cycling in the town centre – The Council is currently discussing the introduction of new signage to address concerns. However, residents were reminded that the Town Council does not have any legal or enforcement powers to stop individuals from cycling in the area. As such, any incidents should be reported directly to the police.

Cllr Bill Soane encouraged residents to check planning applications online and engage early, explaining that Town Council only makes recommendations, not final decisions.

Always Open for Engagement

Cllr Bragg concluded the session by inviting residents to attend council meetings, either in person or via the Council’s YouTube channel, and to contact their councillors directly with questions or concerns.

Community Heroes Honoured

The night culminated in the 23rd Annual Community Heroes Awards, celebrating individuals and groups who go above and beyond for Woodley:

Volunteer of the Year – Debbie Willis (SHARE Woodley)
Debbie was praised for her tireless work collecting food surplus and managing operations at the food waste charity, which supports 85–100 households each week.

Neighbour of the Year – Warren White
Known for his kindness and willingness to help neighbours and his work with charities like Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA), Warren was honoured for embodying true community spirit.

Voluntary Group of the Year – Woodley Detachment Army Cadets
Recognised for mentoring young people and supporting community initiatives like the British Legion Poppy Appeal and local food banks.

Climate Champions – Woodley Adopt A Street (WASP)
Acknowledged for their environmental efforts, WASP volunteers help keep the town clean and attractive for residents.

Special Recognition Award – Kick Twist Cheerleading
The 15-member Woodley team represented the UK in Florida and brought home two awards. Mayor Bragg said he would personally deliver their award.

Mayor’s Outstanding Contribution Award – Tony Roper
The former Town Crier of 30 years was honoured by former Mayor Cllr Juliet Anderson for his decades of service and volunteering.

“This award is truly well deserved by someone who has devoted so much of his time to helping others. Today, we celebrate the one and only Tony Roper for his remarkable 30 years as Woodley’s Town Crier. It’s a real honour to recognise Tony’s dedication and to say a heartfelt thank you on behalf of the whole community,” said Cllr Anderson.

Tony expressed his gratitude: “It’s been a real privilege to serve as Woodley’s Town Crier. Of the 52 years I’ve lived here, 30 have been spent not only as Town Crier but also volunteering in many ways. I encourage everyone – if you’re able – to get involved and support this amazing community.”

Together in Celebration

The evening ended with a drink’s reception, giving attendees a chance to connect and celebrate their shared pride in being part of the Woodley community.

For more information on council meetings, local initiatives, or how to get involved, please explore our website, get in touch with us, or contact your local councillor.

Anuszka Ransley May 27, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Celebrating World Bee Day With A National Bee Friendly Trust Award

Woodley Town Council is proud to announce that, on World Bee Day, it has been honoured with a prestigious Bee Friendly Trust Award in recognition of its bee-friendly parks and ongoing commitment to supporting pollinators and biodiversity.

Launched by the Bee Friendly Trust in 2021, the Bee Friendly Trust Awards highlight and celebrate outstanding efforts by communities across the UK to protect bees and other vital pollinators. The awards commend:

Habitat-forming initiatives that create safe, diverse homes for wildlife
Collaborative efforts that expand pollinator pathways across urban and rural spaces
The individuals and teams making real change on the ground.

“The Bee Friendly Trust was established to create sustainable, nature-rich spaces in which bees and other pollinators can thrive, especially in urban environments where green corridors are disappearing. This award is a symbol of what can be achieved when local authorities, staff, and the community come together for the planet,” said a spokesperson for the Bee Friendly Trust.

Leading with Climate Commitment

Woodley’s recognition is a result of dedicated and inspiring work from our amenities team and local voluntary group Friends of Woodford Park, whose collective efforts keep our public parks pollinator-friendly spaces. The award acknowledges their efforts and the Council’s broader environmental action in response to the challenges of climate change and biodiversity loss.

“I’d like to say a huge thank you to the team and the Friends of Woodford Park, whose dedication and hard work keep our parks truly bee friendly. This award is a tribute to their efforts and the values we hold as a Council committed to climate action and biodiversity,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council’s Town Clerk.

“I’m absolutely delighted that the Council has received this award, especially on World Bee Day,” said Woodley Town Mayor, Cllr David Bragg. “It’s a great reminder of just how important bees are to our environment and everyday lives. This award is something to celebrate, but it’s also a nudge to us all to keep doing our bit to protect pollinators and tackle the challenges of climate change.”

According to the Bee Friendly Trust, bees and other pollinators are vital to healthy ecosystems and food production, yet their populations are under serious threat. Factors such as habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change have caused significant declines across the UK and beyond. The Trust highlights the urgent need for more pollinator-friendly spaces, particularly in urban areas, to help restore biodiversity and support climate resilience at the local level, which Woodley Town Council is trying to achieve through initiatives such as wildflower planting, reduced mowing schedules, and beehives at the Reading Road allotments.

“Woodley Town Council remains firmly committed to taking meaningful climate action, and this award strengthens our resolve to create greener spaces, support biodiversity, and help build a more sustainable future for all,” adds Kevin.

Buzzing Bee Trail

We now have an exciting Bee Trail across Woodford Park. During the May Half Term, children can collect a quiz sheet from our reception to complete using the facts around the trail. Once completed, head back to our reception to claim a prize (sweets and a packet of bee/butterfly wildflower seeds).

Anuszka Ransley May 20, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Council Launches New Youth Services Strategy to Support Local Young People

The five-year roadmap will deliver targeted support, safe spaces and strengthen local opportunities for young people to thrive in Woodley

Woodley Town Council recently adopted a new and forward-thinking Youth Services Strategy at its Full Council meeting in May, setting out an exciting roadmap to support and empower young people in the community over the next five years.

This responsive and youth-focused strategy, which runs from 2025 to 2030, replaces the previous Strategy for Youth Services 2022–2027 and reflects a renewed commitment to the holistic development of children and young people across Woodley.

A Fresh Start for Young People in Woodley

Councillor Darren Smith - Deputy Town Mayor 2025/26 — Cllr Darren Smith

After a period of consideration and extensive consultation with local young people, youth service providers, Wokingham Borough Council, Thames Valley Police, and other partners, a dedicated working group, which had been established in September 2023, submitted a new set of recommendations. These were approved by the Leisure Services Committee in November 2024 and now form the basis of the updated strategy.

“Young people in Woodley deserve services that listen to their needs, respond to their changing interests, and offer safe, inclusive spaces to grow, learn, and have fun. This new strategy ensures we are doing exactly that – together with our partners and the community,” said Cllr Darren Smith, Chairman of the Leisure Services Committee.

Strategic Priorities

The strategy sets out clear aims, including:

Improving mental health, wellbeing, and reducing isolation
Giving young people a stronger voice in local decision-making
Expanding the range of fun, inclusive, and safe activities
Supporting those at risk of becoming vulnerable
Offering opportunities during school holidays, select evenings, and key national events
Provide safe spaces and opportunities to meet
Exploring cost-effective delivery within the budget and funding opportunities
Ensuring youth services stay responsive and relevant year after year.

How It Will Be Delivered

Woodley Town Council will work with a range of external partners to deliver:

Regular sessions such as sports, music, arts, training, and workshops
One-off events and structured activities, including competitions and trips
Mobile venues such as converted vans or trailers to bring services directly to Woodley
Use of community venues where appropriate.

Who It’s For

Services will primarily support young people aged 9 to 21 in Woodley, with a special focus on those who may be vulnerable or currently underrepresented in local youth provision.

Looking Ahead

The strategy will be reviewed annually to ensure it continues to reflect the needs and interests of young people in Woodley. The Council is now actively seeking to establish options through partners to help bring these plans to life.The new Youth Strategy can be viewed on our website.

Anuszka Ransley May 19, 2025 0