Anuszka Ransley, Author at Woodley Town Council

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Council To Host its Second Community Climate Action Week

Together for Tomorrow: Local Action, Global Impact – Be the Change

Woodley Town Council is proud to launch its second Community Climate Action Week on Saturday 15 November, uniting residents under the theme “Together for Tomorrow – Local Action, Global Impact.”

The week invites everyone in Woodley to Be the Change – to take part, learn, and discover how local efforts can make a global difference.

Climate Action Week Launch Day Inspires Local Action

A packed opening day will feature three free community events:

Be the Change – Community Litter Pick

10am-12pm
Oakwood Centre, Woodley
Take part in Woodley’s Community Litter Pick with Woodley Adopt A Street (WASP), because small actions create big change. All equipment is provided. Please click here to register your place. Volunteers will meet at the Oakwood Centre and then head to assigned streets. Booking is essential to organise groups.

Wear the Change – Charity Fashion Show

1-2pm
Centre Stage, Woodley Town Centre
Step into sustainable style at our fashion show hosted and organised by Thames Hospice Woodley shop, featuring pre-loved outfits from its store in the town centre, with help from Waingels’ students. This exciting event proves fashion doesn’t have to cost the earth. With every outfit, we celebrate recycling, reimagining, and reducing waste. No booking required – just turn up and enjoy! Complimentary tea, coffee, and hot chocolate provided.

Voice the Change – Local Action, Global Impact

3-5pm
Oakwood Centre, Woodley
Join us for a powerful community conversation on climate, featuring Woodley Town Council’s initiatives, advice on how to afford climate change from Citizens Advice Wokingham, and the much-anticipated keynote talk by Professor Chris Merchant, Professor in Ocean and Earth Observation at the University of Reading. Professor Merchant’s presentation, Our Climate Future, will unpack the key science and facts behind global warming, why it matters, and how every voice can help shape change. The event includes a Q&A session and complimentary tea, coffee, and cake. Booking is essential as there are limited tickets available. Please click here to register your place.

Daily Family Activities

Children can join the Kids’ Eco Nature Hunt, with prizes to be won, helping our youngest residents learn that small actions create a big impact.

Throughout the week, Woodley Town Council will also be sharing a Daily Pledge, with facts about what the Council is doing to support sustainability and a handy “Tip of the Day” to inspire residents to take action.

“This week is about showing that when we come together as a community, our local actions really do create global impact. By working with our local schools, shops, groups, and residents, we are building something that goes beyond a single event. Community Climate Action Week is about creating a shared movement that belongs to everyone in Woodley, because tackling climate change requires all of us,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley Town Council Town Clerk.

The Council sees this collaboration with local partners – schools educating the next generation, shops leading on sustainable fashion, and residents stepping forward to take part – as essential to its vision of a greener, more resilient town.

The launch day promises to be an energising start to a week filled with events, from repair cafés to school projects, all demonstrating that climate action is not only necessary but achievable when tackled together.

All events are free to attend, but spaces for bookable events are limited. All information is available on our website.

Anuszka Ransley October 21, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Have Your Say: Proposed 20mph Speed Limit on Woodlands Avenue

Woodley Town Council would like to make residents aware of a proposal from Wokingham Borough Council to introduce a 20mph speed limit along part of Woodlands Avenue in Woodley.

The proposed change would apply from a point 15 metres west of the junction with Fairwater Drive and extend eastwards for approximately 720 metres. The Borough Council has explained that the intention is to help lower traffic speeds and enhance safety for all road users, particularly as this stretch of road runs through a residential area and forms part of an important active travel route.

Residents are invited to view the full details of the proposal online, or in person at Wokingham Borough Council Offices, Shute End, Wokingham, during office hours.

Comments, whether in support of or objecting to the proposal, can be submitted to the Borough Council either in writing to the Traffic Management Team, Wokingham Borough Council, Shute End, Wokingham, RG40 1BN, or online via its Engage Platform. The deadline for responses is 23:59 on 20th October 2025.

“We know that roads like Woodlands Avenue are used every day by drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians, including families and schoolchildren. We encourage residents to look at the details of this proposal and share their views directly with Wokingham Borough Council. Your feedback is an important part of the consultation process,” said Cllr Bill Soane, Chairman of Planning & Community Committee.

Anuszka Ransley September 29, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Annual Return & Audit 2024-2025

Anuszka Ransley September 29, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night – Tickets Now on Sale!

Tickets now available for the Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night to Raise Funds for SHARE Woodley

Residents of Woodley are invited to put their knowledge to the test at the Mayor’s Charity Quiz Night on Friday 24 October, from 7:00pm to 10:00pm at the Oakwood Centre. The event will raise money for the previous Mayor’s, Cllr Juliet Anderson, chosen charity, SHARE Woodley, a local organisation dedicated to providing food, essentials, and support to those in need within the community.

Tickets are now on sale, but hurry as numbers are limited. They can be booked individually or as a table for up to eight people, via TicketSource and are priced at £6.50 per person with a 55p booking fee.

The evening promises a lively atmosphere with a cash bar, nibbles provided, and a raffle offering a variety of prizes, with all proceeds going directly to the charity. Attendees are encouraged to bring cash for raffle tickets on the night.

The Mayor is also appealing for donations of raffle prizes to help maximise fundraising. Anyone who can contribute is asked to contact Cllr Juliet Anderson ([email protected]), or the Town Council ([email protected]).

“This quiz night is about bringing the community together for a great cause. SHARE Woodley does incredible work supporting local families, and we hope to raise vital funds while enjoying a fun and friendly evening,” said Cllr Juliet Anderson, former Woodley Town Mayor.

Event details:

Date: Friday 24 October 2025
Time: 7:00pm – 10:00pm
Venue: Oakwood Centre, Woodley
Tickets:
£6.50 (plus 55p booking fee)
Booking: Individuals or tables of up to 8
On the night: Cash bar, nibbles, raffle (cash for tickets)

Anuszka Ransley August 22, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Council celebrates hugely successful Party in the Park

Hundreds of residents enjoy free family fun, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in Woodford Park

Woodley Town Council is delighted to announce that this year’s Party in the Park was an overwhelming success, drawing hundreds of residents to the award-winning Woodford Park on Saturday, 16 August. The free family fun day brought the community together for an afternoon of live music, children’s entertainment, and activities for all ages in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The park was filled with laughter, music, and smiles as families gathered to enjoy the free community event. The Kidzone proved to be one of the most popular attractions of the day, with children eagerly taking part in circus skills provided by Circus Scene, enjoying entertainment from Bertie Slippers and Professor Cump, and getting creative with the Arts4Wokingham recycled art workshops. Parents praised the family-friendly atmosphere, with many attendees sharing with staff how much they enjoyed the event.

Following the success of their performance at the King’s Coronation celebration, Leader returned to the stage, keeping the crowd dancing and singing along with a lively mix of music to suit all tastes.

The event was described by many as one of the highlights of the summer, with its vibrant family atmosphere and inclusive approach.

Cllr David Bragg, Woodley Town Mayor, praised the success of the day, saying:
“It was wonderful to see so many families and residents enjoying themselves at Party in the Park. The atmosphere was truly joyful and full of laughter, music, and togetherness. Events like this highlight what makes Woodley such a special place to live: a strong sense of community and opportunities for everyone to come together and celebrate.”

Cllr Keith Baker, Woodley Town Council Leader, added:
“Events like Party in the Park are vital to building a strong sense of community. It’s about giving something back to our residents, creating spaces where families can come together, enjoy time outdoors, and connect with neighbours, all at no cost. Especially during times when many are feeling financial pressure, we’re proud to offer a day of joy that’s truly accessible to all.”

Woodley Town Council extends a heartfelt thank you to all who attended and contributed to making Party in the Park such a memorable success.

Anuszka Ransley August 18, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodley Marks VJ Day 80 with Community Reflection Event

On Friday 15 August, the people of Woodley came together for a special free community drop-in day to reflect, remember, and honour the 80th anniversary of VJ Day – the day in 1945 when Japan surrendered, bringing the Second World War to an end.

Visitors were invited to watch information videos, explore displays about VJ Day, and view a unique collection of memorabilia kindly gifted by Roy and Pam Hannington. The collection included photographs, a copy of a wartime ration book, Roy’s father’s ID card, and a letter Roy wrote to his father during the war. These personal items were shared alongside Roy’s vivid memories of growing up in wartime London, enduring air raids, coping with rationing, and celebrating peace.

“VJ Day reminds us not just of the end of conflict, but of the resilience, sacrifice, and humanity that carried people through those dark years. Today we were privileged to hear Roy’s personal memories and see treasured artefacts that bring history to life for us all. My heartfelt thanks go to Roy and Pam Hannington for their generosity in sharing them, and to everyone who joined us to remember and reflect,” said Cllr David Bragg, Woodley Town Mayor.

VJ Day 80 is a significant milestone, marking eight decades since the conclusion of the Second World War in the Pacific. While Victory in Europe (VE) Day had been celebrated earlier in May 1945, fighting continued in Asia until Japan’s surrender on 15 August 1945. The day is an opportunity for communities across the UK to honour the service and sacrifice of those who fought in the Far East, as well as the families who supported them at home.

Woodley Town Council would like to extend its gratitude to everyone who attended today’s event and contributed to making it a meaningful and memorable occasion.

Anuszka Ransley August 18, 2025 0

Woodley-Council-Lydia-Victoria-Photography0022

Town Council News Post

Have Your Say on the Future of Woodley’s Local Services – Woodley Town Council Launches Precept Survey

Woodley Town Council is calling on all local residents to have their say on the future of Town Council services by responding to a new community survey about the Town Council Tax element they pay each year. The feedback gathered will help shape how the Council plans its budget and delivers services for the 2026/27 financial year.

Over the past 13 years, Woodley Town Council has worked hard to minimise the financial burden on residents. The Council has delivered a 0% increase in the Town Council Tax for the last three years, and a total reduction of 7%(not adjusted for inflation) since 2011. Despite rising costs and increasing pressures, the Council remains committed to maintaining and improving the services that matter most to the community.

Current Precept Amount

Currently, the average Band D household pays £106.69 per year (£8.89 per month) to support local services and facilities including:

Woodford Park, Malone Park, Wheble Park & Bulmershe open space
The Garden of Remembrance, Reading Road allotments & Centre Stage
Woodford Park Leisure Centre and Gym on the Park
The Oakwood Centre & Alan Cornish Theatre
Coronation and Chapel Halls
Youth support services
Community events, town centre activities, and commemorations
Local grants for community organisations

We know how important these local facilities and services are to the people of Woodley. That’s why we’ve worked diligently to keep the Town Council Tax as low as possible without compromising the quality of what we provide. However, like all organisations, we are now facing increased costs. This survey gives you the chance to tell us directly how you would like us to move forward, whether that’s maintaining the current service levels or investing more in your community,” said Cllr Keith Baker, Leader of Woodley Town Council.

Choose How Much You Are Willing to Contribute to Support Local Services

Starting 11 August 2025, every household in Woodley will receive a copy of the survey by post, giving all residents the opportunity to participate. The deadline to respond is 12 September 2025.

The Council is inviting residents to choose one of five options that reflect how much more, if anything, they would be willing to contribute per month to maintain or enhance services:

+89p per month
+53p per month
+18p per month
0p per month
I believe my contribution should decrease.

Responding couldn’t be easier, simply tick your preferred option on the consultation card and post it in your local Royal Mail post box. No stamp is required, though using one will help save the Council money.

Come To the Public Meeting

Following the consultation, a public meeting will be held at the Oakwood Centre, where the results will be shared and discussed with residents.

Your voice matters. The more responses the Council receives, the better informed its decisions will be. Let’s shape the future of Woodley together.

For more information and to view the full precept details, please visit our Precept Page.

Anuszka Ransley August 11, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Woodley Town Council’s New Youth Services Programme to Launch This Autumn

Targeted and Inclusive Activities for Woodley's Young People

Woodley Town Council has taken a significant step towards strengthening youth engagement and support by approving a diverse programme of youth services set to launch this autumn. The initiative, shaped by the Council’s Youth Support Services Task & Finish Working Group, brings together three experienced providers to deliver a range of targeted and inclusive activities for young people in the community.

Following a series of discussions by the working group and approval at an extraordinary Leisure Services Committee Meeting on 15 July, a package of youth services is to be funded within the Council’s 2025/26 youth budget of £15,000. The chosen offerings include:

Targeted Intervention Programme: Designed for vulnerable 12 to 15 year-olds identified by a multi-disciplinary team. This programme will offer structured support including mentoring, diversionary activities, and reporting on individual outcomes.
Youth Club Sessions: Weekly youth club sessions on Friday evenings during school terms, offering recreational and developmental activities in collaboration with young people themselves.
Holiday Activity Programme: Enriching holiday experiences for children aged 9–16 from low-income households.

The Councill will be working in partnership with the Storyy Group, Berkshire Youth and Wokingham Borough Council’s Holiday, Activities and Food team to deliver the programme.

“We’re excited to launch this new youth programme for Woodley. By combining targeted intervention with inclusive activities and leadership opportunities, we are taking a meaningful step toward building confidence, resilience, and community spirit in our young people. This is a long-term investment in the next generation, and we’re proud to be delivering something that reflects their needs and voices,” said Chair of the Youth Support Services Working Group, Cllr Kay Gilder.

Youth Strategy

The new services align with the Council’s recently updated Youth Strategy. which commits to providing a flexible, activity-led programme of youth services which is delivered within the town or accessible to its residents.

The new youth provision is expected to begin in the autumn term, with a new Youth Service Sub Committee setup to monitor the service and guide future development of the programme.

Anuszka Ransley July 17, 2025 0

Town Council News Post

Share Your Views On New Cycle Route in Woodley

Have Your Say by completing Wokingham Borough Council's Survey

If you live in the Woodley area, or travel frequently between Woodley and Reading, Wokingham Borough Council wants to hear about how you get around.

The Council is asking about people’s travel habits before it starts work on a new cycle link from Woodley town centre to Palmer Park, at the Reading borough boundary.

The new link will run via Woodlands Avenue, Church Road, Palmerstone Road and Culver Lane, with work due to start later this year.

It’s being funded by the Department for Transport and the money is ‘ring fenced’ for this project, meaning the Council isn’t allowed to spend it on anything else.

Complete the Survey by 12 midnight, Sunday 3 August, for the chance to win one of five £20 vouchers. Note, you must be aged 16 or over.

Complete The Survey

Anuszka Ransley July 17, 2025 0

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