Latest 7 magazine

Council trains staff not to smile, Ditchling Road gets nature reserve, Hastings pier fire. Phil Mills reports

Brighton and Hove council staff have been told not to smile when dealing with parking complaints, another move that’ll enhance its reputation with beleagured motorists.

The don’t-smile policy is apparently designed to avoid making drivers angrier, even though unions have condemned the move as silly and laughable. They believe an understanding smile often can defuse a potentially nasty encounter.

The council says it is training staff in body language designed to help them deal with customers without inflaming situations.
Read the rest of this article »

Brighton and Hove City Council leader Mary Mears on easing school admissions

If there is one subject that is guaranteed to raise passions amongst residents it is schooling and, in particular, the vexed issue of school admissions.

So, it was fantastic to be able to announce last week that we have reached agreement with City College Brighton & Hove to lease the Connaught Centre in Hove for use as a new 3 form entry primary school. In return, we are giving City College a long lease on their Wilson Avenue campus in east Brighton.
Read the rest of this article »

Hate crime team for LGBT community, record Albion sales, plus post office robbery. Phil Mills reports

It was a week of cracking down on anti-social behaviour, supporting victims of hate and helping youngsters to show respect.

ASBOS are worn like trophies by yobs so new solutions are being sought. The coalition government wants so-called low-level community crime made a top priority but police forces throughout the country are having to economise by cutting police numbers.
Read the rest of this article »

Ikea eyes up city sites, seafront officers rescue dinghy pair, and work begins on Sussex cricket ground. Phil Mills reports

Who cares what shops choose to open in the city? Ikea! Yes, the Swedish furniture store is looking for a site in Brighton and Hove, which will save shoppers from the slog up the Purley Way. Read the rest of this article »