South Norfolk Council have rebranded three of their bin lorries to help get crucial messages around Coronavirus out into the community.
Two of the lorries carry the message that if you need support or advice call 0344 8008020 and feature a young boy at a window holding a picture of a rainbow – an image that has come to symbolise hope and togetherness during this crisis.
The other contains the contact details for Voluntary Norfolk, with the message that if you can help and want to volunteer visit voluntarynorfolk.org.uk. The image is of someone dropping off boxes of food outside a vulnerable person’s house, something that is being done every day by hundreds of selfless volunteers throughout south Norfolk.
South Norfolk Council's Managing Director Trevor Holden said: “We are using every channel we have to get these critical messages out there that could literally be the difference between life and death. There are people in our community without access to the internet, so it’s crucial we do all we can to reach them and let them know we’re here to help . Equally, if someone is sitting at home with time to spare, then please get in touch and make a difference by joining the volunteers that are helping to save lives.”
To celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, Broadland District and South Norfolk Council have each launched a free treasure trail.
The trails, designed for the whole family, encourage visitors to explore the districts, solve the clues and uncover the areas’ hidden history. Along the way, there are discounts available to use at local shops and cafés, as well as some fantastic prizes to win.
Broadland District Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Trudy Mancini-Boyle, said: “If you’re looking for something free and fun to do this summer, then take part in our Traveller’s Charms treasure trail. Whether on foot, bicycle or even by boat, it’s a fantastic way to explore our beautiful district and spend time with friends and family.”
South Norfolk Council’s Deputy Leader, Cllr Kay Mason Billig, said: “Our Queen’s Treasure Trail will have you out exploring the area and visiting some wonderful places that you probably didn’t realise were right on your doorstep. So grab a picnic, or pop into one of the many eateries along the way and make a day of it.”
The 2022 Broadland & South Norfolk Business Awards finalists have been announced.
Organised by South Norfolk Council and Broadland District Councils, the awards celebrate the excellence, innovation and best practice shown by businesses across the combined area.
South Norfolk Council’s Cabinet Member for Stronger Economy, Councillor Lisa Neal, said: “This has been an extremely challenging time for local businesses and these awards are an excellent opportunity to celebrate the hard work and commitment it has taken to run a successful business through the pandemic.”
Two very generous local businessmen are once again putting smiles on children’s faces this Christmas after making a huge donation to South Norfolk Council’s Help Hub.
Last week Jeremy Payne of J Payne Services and Michael Downes of Carbrooke Cars and Commercials delivered over £2,000 worth of brand-new children’s toys, games and wrapping paper to the Council’s HQ in Long Stratton.
The presents will be wrapped up and distributed through the Council’s Help Hub to families in need within the district, to help ensure every child receives a gift on Christmas Day.
South Norfolk Council Chairman Councillor Florence Ellis said: “Jeremy and Michael’s kind actions really sum up the meaning of Christmas spirit. Thanks to them, children all over the district will be getting a present on Christmas day this year, knowing that Santa hasn’t forgotten them. Their generosity will come as a huge relief to struggling parents.”
Nominations for Broadland District and South Norfolk Council’s Business Awards are now open. The Awards recognise and celebrate the amazing array of successful businesses in both districts.
Despite the challenges of the past 18 months, many businesses have survived and even thrived, not just financially, but by being adaptable, innovative and excelling at supporting the very communities that have supported them.
To recognise this, the Councils have added five new categories to the awards, including Outstanding Employer, Business in the Community, Working Together, Business Resilience and Business Innovation.
Businesses are invited to nominate themselves for an award in any of the 10 categories and residents can support their favourite business by nominating them as ‘Retailer of the Year’.
Two local councils are calling on residents and businesses to dispose of their waste responsibly, or they could face a hefty fine.
In the last 12 months, Broadland District and South Norfolk Council have carried out 206 fly-tipping investigations, resulting in fines for businesses and residents who have broken the law and blighted the countryside with their waste.
South Norfolk Cabinet Member for Clean and Safe Environment Councillor Michael Edney said: “We live in a beautiful part of the world and we want to keep it that way. Fly-tipping is selfish and harmful to the environment and wildlife, it blights our countryside and costs taxpayers over £50K a year to clean up. If you are caught fly-tipping, we will not hesitate to fine you.”
Just this month, a mobile catering business was issued with a £300 fixed penalty notice for fly-tipping business waste in a lay-by near Diss. Not only did the owner have to pay the fixed penalty, but also had to pay for the waste to be removed by a licensed waste contractor. The owner was also advised on how to dispose of waste properly and legally in the future.